#i should be sleeping right now but instead

[verstappenverse]

Pairing: Camgirl!Reader x Obsessed!Max

Authors Note: NSFW still working on the details for the upcoming fic but having fun with the concept. Let me know what you think or send any additional ideas 😉

Max can’t remember how he found your page—maybe it was a suggested post on Instagram, or maybe some random link caught his attention. It doesn’t matter how it started, what matters is that now he’s addicted.

At first it's just curiosity, he wasn’t the type to watch cam streams or really spend any time on adult content, but something about you was different. You weren’t like the over-the-top, hyper-curated content he’d expect from this kind of thing. You were sweet, soft-spoken, almost shy in the way you interacted with the camera. And Max sitting alone in his Monaco penthouse couldn’t look away.

He tells himself it’s just a passing distraction, a way to unwind, but then he starts getting… attached. His obsession grows quietly at first. He subscribes to your page, buys your exclusive content, and sets notifications for your streams. It doesn’t matter if he’s at a racetrack, a sponsor event, or a hotel halfway across the world - when you post about your next stream, he checks the time difference and tries to plan his schedule around it.

The first time someone else drops a high tip and you thank them by name, Max feels it. That sharp, irrational sting of jealousy. He knows it’s stupid, he’s one of thousands of viewers, but the way you smile for them? It makes him want to punch a wall. So he does the only thing that makes sense - he outbids them.

When you say his username in that soft, teasing tone and add “Thank you so much, you’re incredible!”—it’s like a shot of adrenaline straight to his chest.

It starts small a few high donations here and there, but soon enough he finds himself spending more of his income on you than he’d ever care to admit. From there it spirals, he’s tipping more, requesting more, even messaging you privately. You respond graciously of course, you always do, but Max convinces himself that your replies to him are different. More personal.

Custom videos, private streams - whatever gets him a little closer to feeling like he’s the only one you’re looking at. He tells himself it’s harmless. He can afford it after all.

It doesn’t take long before his obsession starts creeping into the rest of his life. Between races, he’s refreshing your page to see if you’ve posted. During long-haul flights, he’s watching your videos on repeat. Even at the paddock while his team is running simulations or tweaking the car setup he catches himself checking for notifications.

There are nights he barely sleeps staying up to catch you live, even if he has an early training session the next day. Between races he’ll watch your older streams on repeat, memorising the way you speak, the way you smile. Max knows he’s in too deep, but he can’t stop. He doesn’t want to stop.

His spending ramps up. When someone else tries to steal the spotlight in your chat, he doesn’t just outbid them—he obliterates them. He’s dropping tips that make everyone else look like amateurs, just to keep your attention squarely on him. And it works. His messages get bolder and more desperate too.

I can’t stop thinking about how good you’d look in my bed.

It’s torture watching you touch yourself, knowing I could make you feel so much better.

Tell me I’m your favourite, just once.

You should be sitting on my lap right now instead of talking to them.

Do you know how hard it is to sit here and watch you, knowing I can’t touch you?

The things I’d do to you if you were mine… you wouldn’t be able to walk the next day. Your lips part in surprise at that one, and you quickly cover your flustered reaction with a laugh. “Well, that’s… quite the statement,” you say, trying to keep your voice steady. I never make promises I can’t keep.

But it’s not enough.

The idea of being just another fan starts to gnaw at him. Max Verstappen isn’t “just another” anything. But Max is nothing if not competitive, and the idea of being just another fan doesn’t sit well with him for long. He’s used to winning, to being first, to having the best. He wants to be the one you think about when the stream ends.

He wants to know you in ways the others never could. Where you live, what you liked to do when the camera was off, whether anyone in your life treated you as well as you deserved.

What would it take for me to get your attention?

And when you reply, laughing softly, “You’ve already got it,” it’s game over for him.

Max is playing a dangerous game. Balancing his life as one of the most recognisable athletes in the world with his growing obsession for someone who doesn’t even know who he really is. But that’s the thing about Max - when he wants something he gets it. And right now, there’s nothing in the world he wants more than you.

[likeumeanit9497]

gummy bear | m.s. |

matt sturniolo x fem!reader

summary: matt and y/n have plans to get high and watch movies, but what happens when the movie they pick makes y/n confess to a dirty dirty secret?

warnings: fingering; oral (f receiving); overstimulation; edging; dirty talk; use of vibes; whips & chains (hehe); consumption of edibles; overall these two are DOGS; 18+

notes: whew! i fear this was a bit long winded. i luv freaky deaky matt so let me know if y'all want a pt 2 with these two bc as matt said, they aint done yet ;) love u all lots hope you've had an amazing start to 2025 <3333

─ ⊹ ⊱ ☆ ⊰ ⊹ ─

“Come on, help me pick out a movie.” Matt whined from his place on the couch beside me. His voice sounded far-off and slightly distorted, and all I could do was dissolve into a fit of giggles. “Holy shit,” He chuckled, “You’re feeling that edible already huh.” I finally managed to turn my head towards him — it felt like it weighed as much as a brick — making my lips mould into a slow smile. “I feel amazing right now.” Was all I could get myself to say. I watched Matt take in my face, an amused smile covering his own. “I’m feeling pretty good too.” He admitted, and I noticed his blue irises were glassy and tinged by red. “Now please look at the TV and help me choose something to watch.” He added, and I once again tilted my head so that I was facing the screen in front of us.

“No…no…no…” I whispered the words as he slowly scrolled through various movies on Netflix. My eyes felt heavy as I focused on reading the titles that Matt passed. I struggled to keep them completely focused as I relished in the almost too relaxed feeling that the gummy bear edible had given me. Just as I was about to suggest that we should throw the movie-watching idea out and instead take a quick nap, one title caught my attention. “That one!” I practically exclaimed, suddenly filled with a burst of energy.

“What? You want to watch Fifty Shades of Grey?” Matt’s voice was filled with humour, likely shocked at my suggestion. Him and I had only just recently become friends, so there was a high probability that he couldn’t tell whether or not I was joking. I turned to face him again and lifted my shoulders in a quick shrug. “Dakota Johnson is hot.” I replied matter-of-factly. Matt stared at me for a moment with droopy eyes, but it wasn’t long before he shrugged his shoulders and clicked on the title.

I curled into my side of the couch as the movie began to play, feeling as though I was sinking into the dangerously soft cushions. As the minutes ticked by, neither of us spoke much; we were both settled into our own little worlds as we aimlessly watched the movie. My eyes were so heavy as the THC flowed through my veins, and I continued to fight the urge to drift off into a deep sleep.

After a while, the first sex scene was beginning and I suddenly found the movie to be hilarious. I burst out into a fit of uncomfortable giggles and covered my eyes with my hands as the scene began to quickly heat up. “What?” Matt giggled and nudged me gently with his foot. “You’re the one who wanted to watch this movie.” I continued to giggle and kept my hands over my eyes, but peered through the slits of my fingers to catch a glimpse of the characters on the screen.

My giggles faded out as the room suddenly grew heavy with intensity. The room was so silent outside of the groans and gasps that fell from the actors’ mouths, I could hear my own breathing hitch at the sight of the whips and chains. I began to lose my grip on reality as I became hypnotized by the rhythmic actions of the people on the screen. I felt both lighter and heavier as my pulse quickened and my body temperature rose; so conscious of Matt’s very much alive body right there beside me. I knew I couldn’t entirely trust my own mind, but I was almost certain that I could see his own chest rising and falling more rapidly than it had been before, and knew that I wasn’t hallucinating when I saw him pull a blanket over the straining fabric on his lap.

Still, my eyes stayed trained on the screen, now completely transfixed by each word and action that was expressed. I had seen the film before, but the gummy had somehow made me feel like I was there; right there in that dimmed room. I could feel what the characters were feeling, and had to stop myself from moaning in sync with them. I had been put in a trance. A trance so potent that I couldn’t stop the words from spilling from my lips. “I’d like to get fucked like that.”

They were so muted that I almost missed them myself, or even believe that they were just in my head and not spoken aloud. But my trance was suddenly broken by Matt’s voice. “What?” There was a ringing in my ears, and I felt the familiar warmth of shame travel up my neck onto my cheeks. Even I had shocked myself with my vulgar choice of words, and I could only imagine how shocked Matt was. My mouth was so dry — both from the gummy and my shame — I couldn’t reply even if I wanted to. Still, Matt repeated his question.

“What did you say?” This time, there was a hint of humour laced in his words, which eased my humiliation for a moment; still not enough to face him but enough to clear my throat and attempt to speak. “I…I don’t know.” Was all I was able to say, my voice wavering slightly. Matt stayed silent at my response, seeming dissatisfied by my answer and lying in wait for more. “It just seems so…thrilling. Literally handing your body over to someone to use however they’d like.” My voice wobbled and was basically a whisper, but Matt’s sharp intake of breath beside me told me that not only had he heard it, but now had confirmation that he had understood my first remark correctly.

The silence between us grew, and seemed to go on for hours. The room was so still that, if not for the lingering heaviness of my words, I could close my eyes and pretend that Matt wasn’t there at all; that instead I had just shared my deep-seeded fantasies with an empty room. But I turned my head and saw him through my droopy eyelids, staring at me with an expression on his face that I couldn’t read. Finally, Matt released a forced chuckle and blinked a few times. “You’re just high Y/n.”

He turned back to face the movie, putting an end to our uncomfortable conversation. I felt my cheeks flush to an even deeper shade of red as I continued to stare at his side profile. His jaw flexed and seemed to stay in that stern expression as I allowed myself to get lost in my shame. Why the fuck would I say something like that? Matt and I were just starting to become good friends, and I surely just ruined everything by making him think I was some sexual deviant. And why did I choose to make that typically buried confession to him of all people? I hadn’t even exposed that fantasy to my friends who I had known for years, let alone any of my past boyfriends.

Suddenly, my brain that had been moving in slow motion began spiralling as I questioned what this all meant. Why had I blurted that out so mindlessly? Did I just have some subconscious trust of this man who I only became friends with a few short months ago? Could it all be blamed on the fact that I was stoned, like he had implied? Or was there another reason. Could I have made that confession with the hope that he would help me bring my fantasy to life?

With a racing heart and ragged breaths, I continued to stare at his profile. He was attractive, that was just a fact. His features were so sharp, his expression so soft. Even without viewing him head-on, I could see the blue in his eyes; the late-afternoon sunlight making them look nearly transparent. He had a slight stubble across his sharp jawline that trailed up onto his sunken cheeks, and it framed his pale pink, slightly chapped lips. He was leaning back on the couch, his soft brown hair feathered against the off-white cushions. His feet were planted to the floor, and his legs were slightly spread in a way that gave him a hypnotically masculine silhouette. To his right was a throw pillow, and I became transfixed by his long fingers as they mindlessly toyed with its fabric. They rotated between two fingers making slow twirls against the extra material and his cupped hand running against its plush curves, in much the same way they would move along my—

I snapped my head back to the screen in front of me, using all the self control I had to not slap my hand over my mouth at the shock of my own thoughts. My mind was reeling with equal parts desire and shame, and the gummy made me suddenly paranoid that Matt could somehow read my mind; where he would find a deeply unsettling image of him and I. I squeezed my eyes shut, beckoning myself to think of something, anything else. I opened my eyes as quickly as I shut them to try to get myself to just focus on the movie, but when I did all I saw was exactly what I was imagining in real time and knew that I had made a mistake.

Suddenly, I felt a wave of panic and the need to stop watching this movie. “I’m so tired.” I blurted out, even though I felt like I had been lit on fire. Without hesitation, Matt paused the movie; proof that he was also deeply uncomfortable. “Me too.” He turned to face me, his cheeks tinted a pale pink. “You can go sleep in my bed if you want. I’ll…I’ll just rest out here.” He seemed flustered, and for a moment I thought he might have actually been reading my mind all along. “Are you sure? I don’t mind…” Sharing? “I don’t mind sleeping out here.” I finished, but already Matt was shaking his head and getting comfortable on the couch. “No really, I’m good out here.” He replied, avoiding eye contact with me.

With a curt nod, I stood up from the couch and headed into his bedroom. It was dark, the blinds blocking out any light from outside, and it seemed to be about 10 degrees cooler in there than it had been in the living room. As I shut the door, my heart continued to race thinking about the fact that I had officially created unwarranted awkwardness between Matt and I. Slowly, I crawled into his bed. Although I had been sure that my humiliation would prevent me from being able to truly rest, as soon as my head hit his pillow I was engulfed in a wave of pleasurable exhaustion. As I closed my eyes, my heart rate slowed and my breathing became more even, and I rapidly fell into a deep, all-consuming sleep.

𓆩☆𓆪

I was startled awake by the sound of a door creaking open slowly, and immediately felt all of my senses ignite. With my eyes still closed, it took me a moment to remember that I wasn’t in my own bed, but the familiar smell of Matt in the pillow and blanket brought me to reality. I could feel a soft wash of light against my closed eyelids, and realized that the door was still open yet I couldn’t hear any noises. I finally heard soft footsteps before the door creaked shut, filling the room with absolute darkness once again. For a moment I thought that maybe it had just been Matt checking on me before retreating to let me sleep for longer, but then I heard more footsteps; not heading away from me, but instead heading towards me.

I stayed as still as I possibly could as I waited to see what was going to happen, though I felt my body begin to vibrate in anticipation. There were no more footsteps, and I knew that he was now standing at the edge of the bed because I could hear his ragged breathing and feel waves of his nervousness behind me. After what felt like hours of aching silence, I suddenly felt the bed sink and the comforter lift slightly, and my breath hitched in my throat. I did my very best to pretend like I was still asleep, but my heart had begun racing so violently at the feeling of his warm body hovering just inches from mine that I was sure that he could feel it radiate through the mattress.

The weight of uncertainty had crept into the room upon Matt’s arrival, only now it felt mutual. Matt stayed perfectly still behind me, and although I knew he was very close, he had still not touched me. And so I waited for that touch, because I knew that once I felt his touch, it meant that his uncertainty had dissipated and I could stop hiding from my shame. Time continued to tick away, and in the darkness and the intoxicating tension of the bedroom, it felt bleakly infinite. I felt as though I was a ticking time bomb that could explode at any minute, and only he had the power to diffuse me. I neededhim to touch me. I needed it in the way that a plant needs water. I needed it in a way that I had never needed anything before. So when, after what felt like a lifetime, his knuckles finally brushed ever so gently against my bare shoulder and his voice softly whispered my name against my ear, my entire body shuddered and I released a breath that I hadn’t even known I was holding.

I turned to face him, and even though in the darkness I couldn’t see much more than his tentative eyes of glass, I could feel all of him beside me. I stared at him in silence, unsure of whether I should speak or simply let him say what he came into the room to say. “Are you still high?” He asked, his voice a delicate whisper between us. I took a brief moment to figure that out. My body didn’t feel like jelly anymore, and neither did my brain; all of me felt electric. “No.” I answered honestly, my eyes slowly adjusting to the darkness so that I could now make out the curious expression on his face. He paused for a moment, seeming to think about his next words. “Did you really mean what you said on the couch?”

My mouth dried out and there was an overwhelming ringing in my ears from the sudden realization that we were really talking about this. Not trusting my voice to be clear and confident, I simply nodded my head nervously. As I did, I swear I could see his pupils dilate. He cleared his throat before continuing. “Did you want me to…help with that?” I felt my panties immediately dampen at his words, and the same dirty thoughts that I had on the couch immediately began swimming through my mind again. Slowly, I adjusted in the bed so that I was fully facing him, and I felt my bent knees brush against his stomach under the covers. His eyes burned into my own as he waited for my response, and in an attempt to ease the intensity I grabbed the hand he had used to graze my shoulder and began toying with his fingers. I kept my eyes glued to them as I explored his knuckles and fingernails, before finally responding. “Could you?”

I felt him intake a sharp breath, and my eyes fluttered up to his just in time to catch his overwhelmed reaction. He pulled his hand out of my grasp and instead used it to cup my cheek as he nodded. “Yeah, I could.” He replied softly, brushing his thumb against my plump lower lip. “But if I do, I need to know exactly what you want.” His eyes were glued to my mouth, and I smiled before playfully biting the tip of his thumb. “I want you to use me however you want.” I whispered before slipping his thumb into my mouth and sucking it slowly. “Fuck.” He hissed softly as his jaw went slack.

“Okay,” His other hand found the small of my back and he pulled me into him. “We…we’ll need a safe word then.” He continued, and at my new close proximity to him I could feel his heart racing in his chest in the same way mine was. With a pop, I let his thumb drop from my mouth. “How about gummy bear?” I replied in a whisper as his hand wove through my hair; bringing my mouth closer and closer to his. A content hum fell from his lips. “Gummy bear it is.” He replied just before he placed his open mouth against mine.

His tongue slipped into my mouth as relief crashed down on me. I moaned into his mouth as his hands traveled all across my body. His kiss was harsh and deep, but his gentle caresses against my thighs and ass as he pulled me even closer to him was a calming paradox. Our breath grew more and more wild as the kiss deepened, and I couldn’t stop myself from bringing my hand to his crotch; where I found his rock hard member straining against his sweatpants. I palmed him firmly, taking as much of his cock in my hand as I could so that I could feel all of its veins and ridges, before slowly stroking him through his sweats.

He groaned against my mouth before seductively biting down on my lower lip. My eyes fluttered open and I found that his were already piercing into me; the colour slightly glazed over by his arousal. His hand tightened on my ass while the other stiffened against the back of my neck. We watched one another as my hand worked against his clothed member, mouths parted as we fell into a trance. Suddenly, Matt’s eyes went a thrillingly dark shade of their usual blue and his grip on my neck tightened. He shifted and was suddenly on top of me, supporting himself with his arm while still pinning me down. I gasped as I looked up at him, feeling the heat of his cock pressed against my aching core.

Very slowly, Matt leaned down to my ear. The heat of his breath made goosebumps raise on my skin, and he nibbled on my earlobe before whispering into it. “You’re not going to touch me until I say.” My breath hitched in my throat from his words, but before I could recover he began tugging my shirt over my head. The cool temperature of the room hit my tits, and I felt them pebble against it. Matt took a moment to admire my breasts, running his thumbs along the sides of each before finally grazing my nipples. I gasped at the contact and squeezed my legs shut in an attempt at releasing even an ounce of the pressure that had been growing intensely between them.

Noticing this, Matt moved his attention to my lower half. Slowly, he ran his hands down my chest to my bare stomach, his eyes traveling along my skin in unison with his hands. He finally reached the waist band of my sweats, and quickly hooked his thumbs under them; removing both my sweats and my soaked panties in one swift motion. My total exposure sent a new wave of arousal through me, and I felt my legs tremble as he took his time admiring my naked frame. A satisfied groan fell from his lips as he ran his hands up and down my legs, and I subconsciously widened them as an invitation to the place where I needed his touch the most.

With my wet cunt spread for him, Matt’s eyes fell to it and I swore I could see the sheer hunger in his eyes. I watched in anticipatory awe as his frame bent in the middle until his mouth was just centimetres away from my core. So close I could feel his breath against my clit, my eyes shut and my hips bucked in frustration just before his warm mouth enclosed my nerves; bringing with it a wave of pleasurable relief. That didn’t last for longer than a second, as he simply planted a wet kiss against my clit before straightening his body again. My eyes flew open in confusion, and my cunt began to pulse as his kiss against it had done nothing more than intensify my need for him.

“You want me to use you?” His deepened voice cut through the once-silent room, and its gruffness made me jump slightly. I nodded my head, squirming under his gaze. “P-please Matt.” I added, wincing at the undeniable desperation laced through my voice. He continued to stay on his knees looking down at me for a moment, his eyes drinking me in for what could have been days. I relished under his gaze, but grew antsy for his touch. Reading my mind, Matt blinked back to reality and climbed off of the bed. I stayed perfectly still, but my eyes followed his frame as he slipped his shirt off and walked into his closet. From the top shelf, he pulled out a fairly large box and brought it back to the bed.

From my position, I couldn’t see the contents of the box as he began to dig through it, but it was obvious that he was looking for something in particular. Finally, he took some objects out and placed them on the bed. With each new object that I could see, my heart began to race quicker and quicker. First, a short whip with what looked like fringe at one end; second, some sort of black leather straps; and third, a small vibrator. Content with his collection of items, Matt closed up the box and placed it on the floor beside the bed.

As he straightened up, his dark eyes shot straight to mine, and I felt as though he was looking straight through me. I swallowed, partially nervous and partially excited, as I watched him pick up the whip with one hand and the leather straps with the other. “Remember the safe word?” He asked huskily, and I gasped at the feeling of the leather fringe as he dragged it across my right arm. I nodded quickly as I felt him wrap one of the leather straps around my wrist. I cried out in pleasure as it suddenly tightened, and when I tried to move it I realized that he had strapped me to his bed frame. Once he was satisfied with that wrist, he trailed the whip back down my arm, over my racing pulse, to my chest; where he suddenly cracked the whip.

My back arched and I cried out in shock as the white hot pain traveled through my body, but almost immediately I felt Matt’s warm tongue press against the place of contact; soothing the skin there. The whip began its travel down my sternum, over my stomach and hips, slowing down as it traveled along my inner thigh down to my right ankle. My body lit on fire from the barely-there contact of the leather, and when he tied up my right ankle I no longer felt shock, only anticipatory pleasure. Once my right ankle was secured, the whip followed its same trail, only once it reached my stomach he shifted it in a diagonal direction, dragging it along my pebbled right nipple before cracking it yet again. My body writhed again, but once again his mouth soothed the pain against my sensitive nerves.

He reached my left wrist and tied it to the headboard, so that now my upper half was completely defenceless. Instead of feeling the expected instinct to fight against the pressure and restraint, I felt myself fall into a state of uncharacteristic ecstasy. My body was completely on edge, craving his touch even more than before. Finally, he dragged the whip back down my body to my left ankle, and when I felt it tickle against my hip bone my core began to drip with my arousal. With all four of my limbs spread apart and tied to the four corners of the bed, I was on full display for him for do whatever he wished with me; just as I had requested. I looked down at him, standing at the end of the bed directly between my legs. His eyes were trained on my glistening core, his bare chest heaving rapidly in anticipation. Suddenly, he dragged the whip along my body one final time. From my ankle, up my thigh, to my swollen cunt. My eyes fluttered shut at the light contact against my clit, and I subconsciously writhed my hips for some sort of friction. My eyes were only shut for a brief moment, however, because a sharp crack against my slick folds caused my whole body to lift off of the bed.

“Fuck!” I moaned out, writhing in the excruciating, pleasurable pain against my bundle of nerves. I felt like my entire body had a heart beat, and had the urge to clamp my legs together to ease the pain. The fact that I couldn’t, that I was completely exposed and defenceless, did nothing but make my stomach flip in excitement. A bratty smirk was just beginning to grow on my face when it was cut off by a sharp squeal as electric waves of foreign pleasure began crashing through me. Looking between my legs, I realized that Matt had pressed the vibrator against my clit.

“Ahhhh s-shit.” I moaned out, my words barely sounding like words as I became consumed by the pleasure that was filling me. My eyes struggled to stay open as I watched Matt watch me; his eyes shifting from my fucked out face back down to my dripping heat every few seconds. “That feel good?” He asked in a cocky tone. I nodded my head rhythmically, growing more and more intoxicated by the pleasure that I was feeling. “S-so good.” I breathed. I felt the urge to grab onto something, grab onto him, but the best I could do was dig my nails into the hard headboard they were tied to. The room filled with the sounds of my animalistic moans and the soft buzz of the vibrator, yet still over all of that I could hear Matt breathing heavily as he watched me unravel before him.

“You look so fucking good, tied up and spread open like a good little sex doll.” Even in my state of euphoria, Matt’s confident dirty talk was startling. Only for a moment though, because I couldn’t help but reply with a guttural moan. Suddenly, the vibrations grew stronger as he turned up the speed of the sex toy, and I knew I wasn’t going to last much longer. “F-fffuck M-matt-” I cried out, my body beginning to tremble as my pleasure began to build. “You wanna cum baby?” His voice was laced with tormenting humour, and I nodded rapidly, desperately. “Y-yes! Oh god yes-s!” As the words fell from my mouth, and my orgasm was just about to overtake me, Matt dropped the vibrator from my clit and instead slipped two fingers into me.

My eyes flew open in surprise and frustration, and I watched as Matt pumped his curled fingers in and out of me rapidly; filling the room with the sounds of my desperate arousal. My walls flexed around his fingers as he pounded into my g-spot, but the orgasm that I had nearly reached had receded back into the shadows at the sudden loss of the vibration. Matt looked up at me with a smirk. “You don’t get to cum until I tell you to cum, understand?” His words, spoken in such a menacing tone, made my stomach do a flip. I bit my lip and nodded tentatively. Satisfied, the smirk fell from his lips as he focused his attention back on my cunt in front of him.

He and I both watched as his fingers disappeared inside of me again and again, coated in more and more slippery fluid each time it reappeared. Seeming to give into temptation, Matt suddenly bent down and ran his tongue through my soaked folds to get a quick taste; forcing a moan out of my mouth before quickly straightening up again. His long fingers felt amazing inside of me, but I needed more. Frustrated, I bucked my hips and released a soft cry. He chuckled softly. “You’re dyin’ for it, huh?” I gasped and writhed in my restraints before nodding my head. “Okay,” He began, and I felt relief as I heard the vibrations once again. “Then you’re takin all of it.”

Without a moment for me to react, Matt pulled his soaked fingers out of me and used them to spread me open; exposing all of my raw nerves before firmly pressing the vibrator, now on full speed, against my undraped clit. There was a moment when the room went completely silent — so silent that it was nearly deafening — as my body was hit with the shock wave. And then, a murderous scream fell from my lips at the white hot sensation that made my mind go completely blank. Immediately, my body began convulsing and lifting off of the bed like a scene from The Exorcist. I could feel the vibrations from my head to my toes, and it was an all-consuming pleasure that was almost too painful to cope with. I couldn’t speak, couldn’t breathe; I felt like I was no longer capable of ordinary human functions.

My arms and legs fought hard against the restraints, and the sounds of my guttural cries were accompanied by clanging metal from the buckles. I was so overstimulated that I wasn’t even sure if I was capable of detecting an impending orgasm; each wave of pleasure already feeling more intense than any orgasm I had ever had before. Matt apparently could tell, however, because his suddenly gentle voice filled the room. “It’s okay sweetheart, go ahead and cum for me.”

It was as if those words held a power over me, because as soon as they fell from his mouth I was swept into a tsunami wave of my orgasm. My body shook violently against the bed; rattling the frame at my subconscious attempt at curling into myself. My nails dug into the wood so deep that I was sure that the tips of my fingers would be bloody and raw. I rode through my high, screaming incoherent words as electricity continued to surge through my body. I felt a warm gush in between my legs and watched as Matt instantly dropped to his knees and wrapped his mouth around my opening; drinking me up as I squirted against his tongue.

Finally my body slowed from convulsions to trembles, and as my cries grew softer and calmer Matt pulled away the vibrator. His mouth traveled from my opening up to my overstimulated clit, where he left one final tantalizing kiss before pulling himself back up. My tits rose and fell rapidly as I struggled to catch my breath, and I watched through my eyelashes as Matt walked over me to plant a soft kiss against my panting lips. I felt my breathing begin to steady, then, and watched as he began untying my limbs from the bed frame. As he released each ankle and wrist, he used his warm hands to sooth the raw skin before kissing them, too.

Even once I was free, I couldn’t find the energy to move. I stayed in that starfished position as he knelt beside me. He ran his hand through my damp hair, and I turned to face him. I gave him a weak smile, and he mirrored me before kissing my sweaty forehead. “Can I get you anything?” He asked, his voice so soft and sweet. I shook my head gently, and he replied by climbing into the bed beside me. Finally adjusting myself, I winced at the stiffness in my joints as I curled into his half-naked frame. He kissed my hair and I closed my eyes to enjoy the tranquil state he had put me in.

“Was all of that okay?” His voice broke the silence of the room after a few moments. I lifted my head from his chest to look up at him with a blissed smile on my face. “Well I didn’t say gummy bear, did I?” I replied with a soft laugh. Thoughtful for a moment, I continued. “I guess we didn’t really need a safe word after all.” His eyes grew playful as he brushed a stray hair out of my face. “Don’t speak so soon sweetheart,” He chuckled, running his knuckles against my cheek, “I’m not quite done with you yet.”

─ ⊹ ⊱ ☆ ⊰ ⊹ ─

[athenamikaelson]

A/N- finn is hot- don't try to fight me on this

Klaus Mikaelson X Soulmate!Reader x Elijah Mikaelson Ch. 25

Word Count- 3.2k

Warnings- mentions of STDS, sex, condoms, bananas, THEO, decapitation, Kardashians

“Why are you smiling like that?” I finish applying the lipstick Rebekah sent me as an apology gift for attacking Elena, and glance over to Theo leaning against the doorframe.

“I just had a good dream,” I mumble as I stand up from my desk and grab my jacket.

Theo hums.

“So it has nothing to do with you letting that mutt slobber all over you last night…or his brother coming over right after and spending the night with you… I must say sister, juggling two bitches,” Theo wipes away a fake tear, “I’m so proud of you.”

I whip around and glare at him, “Theodore Monty Y/l/n, watch it!”

Theo smirks at me and raises his hands. 

“All I’m saying is that like 3 weeks ago the only side piece you had on your arm was Elena, and now you’ve got two brothers. Upgrades sister, hell ya!”

Theo throws out his palm for me to high-five. I don’t. Instead, I walk around him and down the hallway to the front door. 

Theo continues to speak.

“Now I know you’ve had zero playtime soooo I think we should chat about this. For example, we should have the talk.”

I freeze. 

“Theo, I will smother you in your sleep if you continue to talk.”

“Y/n, I don’t like children, I don’t want any nieces or nephews running around.”

I glare over my shoulder at him, “They’re vampires, you dimwit. They can’t have kids.”

Theo thinks to himself for a moment before nodding, “Okay. Well, what about STDs? What if there are vampire STDs you could catch? One look at that mutt from last night and I bet he’s got something you can catch other than fleas.”

I feel my face drop as Theo continues to mutter things to himself about vampire sexually transmitted diseases. 

I shake my head, open the front door, and leave the house, hearing Theo call from behind me. 

“Fine run! But don’t think for a second young lady that we won’t be discussing things later! And trust next time I see either one of those fools I will be asking them about Vamp STDs!”

At that exact moment, our 82-year-old neighbor Shelley, exits her house. I’m pretty sure her look of pure shock and horror mirrors mine. 

“Oh hi Mrs. Davenport,” Theo yells happily.

—

“Hey Bonnie, how are you?”

The phone line is silent for a moment as I hear Bonnie closing a door.

“I’m fine…I guess. My mom’s going to finish her transition,” Bonnie’s sad voice makes me frown as I stare at the red light in front of me. 

“I’m sorry, Bonnie,” I think back to last night and try to shake away the image of Esther’s decapitated head from my head, “If I would’ve known your mother…”

“Don’t apoligize, Y/n. It’s not your fault. And ya… it sucks she has to become a vampire but…it beats losing you or Elena. And I swear, Y/n, as soon as Damon told me that if the originals died, you would die with them, I tried stopping the spell. I would have never done it in the first place if I knew you’d die too.”

Bonnie’s earnest voice makes me smile, “I trust you, Bon. And thank you.”

I hear someone say something to Bonnie and she sighs, “I’ve got to go.”

“It’s ok, Bonnie. We’ll talk soon. Give yourself some time with your mother before coming back to this mess over here. You deserve it.”

“Okay, thank you. And when I get back we’ll find a way to get you out of that soul bond mess and away from the Mikaelsons.”

“Uh, ya, ok. Bye, Bonnie.”

I end the call and pull into the Grill’s parking lot. As I step out of my car, cross the street, and enter the grill, one thought won’t leave my head.

“What if I don’t want to break the bond?”

—

“Y/n?”

I stop walking and smile when my eyes meet Finn’s brown ones.

“Hey, Finn,” I slide into the seat in the booth across from him and can’t help but smile at the obvious discomfort he has plastered on his face.

“You look…”

“Uncomfortable…yes I know. A lot of things have changed since I was last part of civilization,” Finn fiddles with the ring on his middle finger and it reminds me of the anxious tic I do quite often. 

“We could’ve met somewhere else. I know that being in big crowds like this unsettles me too,” I smile softly at him. 

Finn eyes a group of passersby wearily but still shakes his head, “No…I’m alright. If I’m going to be a part of this world I’ve got to learn to live with these things.”

I nod, “Okay. So, why exactly did you have Rebekah call me to meet you here?” Finn turns his attention away from a drunk woman who seems to be having the time of her life, “You said you’d help me find my Rose.”

Oh…ya I did. 

I cringe slightly, “So here’s the thing Finn,” I’m about to tell Finn that there is no way in hell Bonnie would agree to bring another old ass vampire to Mystic Falls after what just went down, but as I look at the helpless expression on Finn’s face and the loneliness in his eyes, something in my breaks, “My witch is currently out of town for a family thing,” Finn’s shoulders sag and his face drops, “But, she said she’d be happy to help as soon as she gets back.”

Finn eyes me for a moment before a soft smile on his face appears, “I’ve waited 900 years for her…a little longer will be fine. Thank you for helping me, Y/n, I know you don’t have to but…”

“Finn we’re friends, that’s what friends do,” I say simply and Finn frowns. 

“Friends?”

The way he says the word aloud is as if he’s never heard it before.

“I mean you don’t have to be my friend, I was just-”

“I would like it,” Finn interrupts me, “It’s just that I’ve never really…had one before.”

His words bring back memories of me crying in my room, wondering why no one ever wanted to be around me and it makes me realize just how much me and this 1,000-year-old man have in common. 

“Well, I just got my first friend like 3 months ago, so I’m pretty new to this whole friend thing too.”

Finn frowns, “I don’t understand why someone wouldn’t want to be friends with you.”

I shrug, “I’m peculiar, remember?”

Finn’s upper lip twitches, “That we are.”

—

“Wait… so Kim is the oldest?”

I groan at Finn’s words, “Finnias, no! We’ve been over this Kourtney is the oldest! Kim is the one dating Kanye.”

Finn nods thoughtfully, “And we don’t like Kanye?”

I shake my head, “No because he was mean to Taylor Swift.”

I watch as the wheels turn in Finn’s head as he continues to piece together all the information on pop culture I’ve given him in the past hour. 

“Alright, I think I’m understanding. Actually…remind me again who Hannah Montana is?”

“Well, don’t you two look comfy together!”

I roll my eyes as I turn to see Demon Salvawhore smirking down at Finnias and I.

“What do you want, Demon?”

“I thought his name was Damon,” Finn questions me with a confused look.

“It is, but I still haven’t seen him and Lucifer in the same place at once so I call him Demon.”

Finn nods but looks down at his hands with a confused look.

“I just saw you two here chatting it up so I thought I might come say hi.”

“Well, we’re kind of in the middle of something here. So feel free to take your leave,” I glare at him.

“It’s alright, Y/n,” Finn says and I turn to see him getting out of the booth, “I should probably get back to make sure my siblings are still alright. But…thank you, for today and helping me.”

I smile up at Finn, “Anytime, Finnieas. And I’ll talk to Klaus about buying you that phone so I can show you how to text.”

Finn nods his head, smiling, and then walks away.

My smile falls as I glance back to Demon.

“What do you want?” “Why are you avoiding me?”

I blink slowly at him, “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Damon gives me an “Are you serious” look.

“Don’t play dumb with me, Pukey. I’ve tried calling you all night last night and all this morning. Only to find you here with yet another original.”

I stand up and glare at him, “Finn is my friend.”

“Ya? Just like Elijah and Klaus are right?”

This bitch.

“I’m not doing this with you right now, Damon. Leave me alone.”

I turn and walk away but Damon’s hand grabs my upper arm.

“Y/n, stop.”

“Is there a problem here, Y/n?”

I turn to my right to find Rebekah at my side, glaring at Damon.

“No, Rebekah. Nothing I can’t handle.”

Rebekah smiles at me but doesn’t move. 

Damon drops my arm but doesn’t leave, “Why are you mad at me?”

It’s my turn to give him an “Are you serious” look, “Really Damon?! You almost killed the Mikaelson yesterday, which almost killed me, and then you actually did kill Bonnie’s mom who is now turning into a vampire?!”

Damon rolls his eyes and I fight the urge to slap him.

“Bonnie’s mom needed to die,” He says simply and I glare at him.

“And why was that?”

Damon doesn’t blink, “Because it came down to you or her,” His voice comes out strong, “And I’d pretty much kill everyone in this town if it meant my best friend stayed alive.”

Oh, Jesus Christ, I’m going to cry.

“Oh…”

Damon tilts his head, annoyed,  “That’s all you have to say. Oh?”

The next thing I know I’m throwing my arms around him. 

Damon doesn’t move for a moment, but after a few seconds his arms wrap around me and he pats my head awkwardly, “Ya, okay, Pukey. Love you too.”

I let go of Damon and fight back tears in my eyes. Damon rolls his eyes and fies his jacket trying to act tough. 

“You’re too emotional,” He says nonchalantly.

I punch him in the arm, “You just called me your best friend. Not takebacks, Demon.”

Damon rolls his eyes dramatically, “Ya whatever, Pukey.”

He reaches out a hand and messes up my hair before turning around and walking away, not before I spot the small smile on his face.

“You guys are odd.”

Rebekah’s British accent makes me remember she’s standing beside me. 

“Ya, kind of.”

Rebekah rolls her blue eyes and a wave of jealousy flows through me. How is it that someone can be this pretty?! 

“So…Elijah didn’t come back until early this morning,” Rebekah’s lips morph into a smirk, “Do you know anything about that?”

I feel my face heat up, “Um…nope.”

Rebekah raises an eyebrow, “Are you sure? Because the smile that was plastered on his face all this morning says otherwise.”

I furrow my brows, “What does him smiling have to do with me?”

Rebekah gives me an “Are you serious” look, guess it’s common today, “Maybe because the only time my older brother smiles is when he’s around you…And he was really smiling this morning.” 

At her tone I freeze, “Wait…do you think that we…” I move my hands around, “Y’know…”

Rebekah raises an eyebrow at me, “Well, didn’t you?”

I shake my head viciously, “No! All we did was kiss and then he watched Coraline with me until I went to sleep!”

Rebekah’s face falls, “Seriously? You’ve got my older brother all giddy after one kiss.”

I shrug, “I doubt he was “giddy”.

Rebekah nods her head, “Oh trust me, he was practically singing when he was making his morning coffee. 

I snort out a laugh at her words and try to imagine Elijah singing. 

“I like seeing him that way…happy. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen any of my siblings like that.”

At her solemn voice, I frown, “How are you doing? After everything…”

Rebekah shrugs, “I’m fine. There’s no reason why I shouldn’t be.”

Her dismissal has me frowning deeper, “Bekah, you’re mother died. I know that she tried to kill you but it doesn’t change the fact that she was still your mother.”

Rebekah looks at me but her face doesn’t betray how she’s really feeling, “I’m fine, Y/n. Finn was the mummy’s boy. I don’t give a damn about that woman.”

I nod but still don’t believe her, “Well if you ever do need to talk to someone. You can always call me.”

Rebekah eyes me for a moment skeptically, then nods, “I won’t need to but…thanks. I guess,” Her attention strays for a moment, “There is someone I need to go talk to. Goodbye, Y/n.”

“Bye, Rebekah.”

—

I pull into my driveway but feel a frown come over my face as I notice an unfamiliar expensive-looking black car in my usual parking spot.

I park beside it and hurry into the house, worrying about Theo.

“Theo! Are you okay-”

“So, both of you have your bananas, and these right here are condoms,” I turn the corner and my jaw drops as I see Theo holding up a banana and a Trojan condom. An unfamiliar sound comes out of my mouth when I look at the two figures sitting on the couch before him with bananas in their hands and annoyed looks on their faces. Klaus and Elijah. 

“Theo what the hell are you doing?!?”

My yell of utter horror catches the three men’s attention.

“Oh, goody! Sister, I’m glad you’re here,” Theo drops his banana on the coffee table before Klaus and Elijah, a table that is covered in condoms and STD pamphlets, “After our little talk this morning I got to thinking and decided that if you and I aren’t going to talk about the elephants in the room, I’d just call up your boyfriends and have that chat with them myself.”

I stare wide-eyed at Elijah and Klaus, “And you both agreed to this?!?”

Elijah releases a deep sigh and Klaus glares at my little brother, “Your infant here called us and said we had to get over here because you were in danger.”

Theo raises his hands, “YES! In danger of catching a vampire STD.”

“Theo! Those don’t exist,” I screech at him.

“That’s exactly what we’ve tried to explain to him for the past 30 minutes, Elskan. For some reason, it isn’t sticking,” Elijah raises his head and shoots a dirty look at my brother. 

“Thirty minutes!? You’ve been sitting here for thirty minutes letting my 16-year-old brother have the sex talk with you!?”

“Well, 15 of those minutes were filled with threats,” Klaus mutters.

I glare at him, “I thought I told you to stop threatening my brother.”

Klaus turns his glare onto me and raises his hands in exhaustion, “The threats were from him, Love! And they were quite imaginative.”

“Thank you, I’ve been working on them for a while now,” Theo smirks at Klaus, and the hybrid growls at him. 

“Niklaus, please,” Elijah sighs.

Theo turns his attention back onto me, “Well now that you’re here,” He drags me over to a chair and pushes me down into, “I can finally give you the talk.”

“What talk,” Elijah asks confused.

Theo looks at him like he’s stupid, “The sex talk, dumbass. Since you,” He points to Elijah, “Like to spend the night in my sister’s bed without asking me permission. And you,” He points to Klaus, “Like to slobber all over her like the dog you are. I thought it would be a good idea to have this discussion before things move further. Now gentleman pick your bananas back up.”

“Theo! NO!”

Theo ignores me and smiles at Klaus and Elijah, who haven’t moved.

“One more dog joke out of you, Theodora and I swear I’ll-”

“Niklaus!”

Elijah and Klaus eye each other and Theo just stands there tapping his shoe on the hardwood floor. 

“Theo go to your room, right now,” I stand up and glare at him, “We are not having this discussion right now…or ever!”

“But the vampire STDS!”

“Theodore there are no such things as vampire STDS! GO TO YOUR ROOM!”

My yelling has all three men looking at me wearily. 

Theo raises his hands in surrender, “Ok, fine. Just trying to help.”

“And leave the condom here!”

Theo halts and turns back to the table and Klaus, Elijah, and I watch as Theo empties maybe 30 condoms from his jeans. 

“Bloody hell,” Klaus mutters.

I glare at Theo as he skips out of the living room and down the hall to his room. As soon as I hear his door close I run a hand over my face.

“Elskan-”

I raise a hand stopping Elijah before he can continue. 

“Nope. Whatever you’re going to say…just nope.” 

“Well, I’m never going to look at a banana the same way,” Klaus’ says sarcastically and I’m silent for a moment before a loud laugh escapes my mouth.  

I move my hands from my face and find Klaus smirking at me, and Elijah smiling softly at me with a bright look in his eyes. 

“Why didn’t you both just leave,” I asked incredulously, “You two are the strongest and oldest creatures alive, and yet you stayed to have a teenage boy teach you how condoms work?!”

Klaus and Elijah side-eye each other. 

Elijah stands from his seat and fixes his suit jacket, “When we heard that you were in danger we hurried over here as fast as we could…but when we came inside and found this,” He gestures to the table of condoms and bananas, “We were going to leave.”

“And then Theodora locked the door behind us and told us that if we didn’t sit down and shut up he’d never give us his approval. And then said that we can bet our asses that if we don’t have his approval, you’d never speak to us again. I of course told him to go to hell but my brother here sat down like the good boy he is,” Klaus says and rolls his eyes.

“And yet you’re still here,” Elijah mutters. 

“So let me get this straight,” I look to both of them, “You endured Theo’s company for 30 minutes, just because you want his approval?!”

“If his approval means you accepting us…then of course we did.”

Klaus mutters something about Theo and daggers, but I ignore him. 

“You really care that much?”

Klaus and Elijah both give me “Are you serious” looks. 

“Love, I thought we made our thoughts about you quite known,” Klaus says as he stands, “We want you. Even if that means you come with a less than exceptional little brother as baggage.”

I snort at Klaus’ words and Elijah walks across the table and over to me, “There is nothing in this world I desire more than your company and happiness, Y/n. Please believe me when I say that.”

I feel my face heat up at the attention of the two men and I nod.

“I believe you.”

“Great,” Klaus says then pauses, “Also…I was just wondering what exactly was discussed by you and Theodora to warrant all of this,” He gestures to the table with a smirk. 

Oh fuck.

[captain-huggy-bear]

"Can- Can you come over please?" (I believe prompt list 1 number 80?) with whoever you're inspired for please 😊 thank you! - em

Em, it was giving soft boy Luke who's maybe feeling shitty after a bad game, so I hope you like it. First time writing Luke so I'm super sorry if it doesn't feel right for him (as we think of him because obvs we don't know him but still) Also I like how I was like let's write something short and then...just kept writing...😂 Totally happy to take requests/ideas/prompts at the moment in my ask box :) Writing Masterlist

You'd been friends with Luke Hughes for almost as long as he'd been in New Jersey, both of you new to the city at the time had stumbled into each other quite literally one wintery afternoon. Your coffee going all over his hoodie, his doughnut squishing chocolate icing over your sweater. You'd expected him to yell, instead you learnt that day how utterly sweet and kind Luke Hughes was. He replaced your coffee and refused to let you buy him a new doughnut, but did let you invite him over so you could put some stain remover on his hoodie.

You might be thinking, 'are you crazy? Inviting a strange man to your apartment?', but you can only explain your risk through two pieces of information: 1) You knew roughly who he was. You weren't a fan of his by any means but you followed Hockey and had heard about the newest addition to the Devils, so you at least knew he wasn't a criminal, 2) Luke Hughes had been wearing snoopy socks and something about that had screamed 'non-threatening'.

Looking back it was probably slightly insane on your part, but it bagged you a close friend who you may or may not have had a massive crush on, so you couldn't really say you regretted risking it.

It wasn't unusual for Luke to phone you after a game, more often than not you got a quick phone call or a few texts sent through while he was out celebrating or commisserating with the team, often being invited out even when he knew you weren't much for late nights out on the town.

It was unusual though for that phone call to come in at 1 in the morning while you were sleeping.

You're groggy and half awake, hand patting the bedside table until you grip your phone, Luke's ringtone blarring through the speakers only because he was one of your few exceptions. One of a handful of people who could call you after 11pm without being sent straight to voicemail, the others being your family.

"Lukey? It's..." You stop to squint at your alarm clock, "1:41 in the morning, what's wrong?" You knew the game had ended late, but Luke should have been in bed by now or he should have been out partying with Jack and the boys, definitely not phoning you. You half expected him to be drunk on the other end of the line, maybe having phoned you while out with the team.

Instead his breath is shaky on the other end of the line, voice raspy like he's been crying and that's what has you sitting upright and swinging your legs out of bed before he even finishes his question.

"Can- Can you come over please?" His voice is scratchy and strained, a rasp that sounds defeated. You don't even considering getting changed from your pajamas, you just throw a jacket on from your closet.

"Yeah, yeah, of course, what's wrong?"

"Just...just come over please, angel" You're quick timing it as you shove your feet in a pair of shoes and grab your keys off the side, locking your apartment door behind you. It didn't matter to you that it was nearly 2am or that you hadn't brushed your hair or that you were half-asleep, all that mattered was Luke and the way he sounded like the world might be just a little too much for him right now.

"Okay, okay, want me to stay on the line?"

"No, just...drive safe?" You pause in the hallway, heart hurting at his concern, that even now when he's begging for your help he cares that you're safe.

"Yeah, course, Lu, i'm leaving right now, sweetheart." He lets out a shuddering breath on the line, right before he hangs up and you're certain you might cry because God, Luke shouldn't sound like that, so utterly defeated, so fragile.

You do your best to honour his request on the drive to his and Jack's apartment, even as you want to break a hundred traffic laws just to get there sooner, but you don't. It doesn't take long, but ten minutes feels like one hundred when all you want is to be see Luke and make sure he's okay.

He's at the door from the first knock and you don't say anything, just take him in. His tall form hunched at the shoulders like he's trying to hide within his hoodie, hood pulled over his head and eyes red rimmed, blotchy. There are dark, deep circles beneath his eyes and his lip is bruised and split, a few neatly placed stitches holding it together.

You don't say anything, just step forward and wrap him in your arms as best you can, tiptoeing to press your chin to his shoulder, arms tight around him as if you can protect him from whatever is going on in his head.

He grasps as you like you're a lifeline, fingers digging into your jacket, face pressed so tight to the crook of your neck that you're certain he'll fuse there.

He doesn't protest when you pull him into his apartment, door slamming shut. Doesn't protest when you pull him to his room, asking where Jack is, only to get a short clipped reply of 'club'. Doesn't protest when you sit him on his bed and join him, shoes being kicked off. It's not until you try to pull away from him that he really seems to come to life, hands grasping you firmer, pulling you back, "Don't go, please don't go..."

"'m not going anywhere, Lu, it's okay..." You pull back just enough that you can pull his hood back, fingers carding through his brown curls gently like he might break. "What happened?"

"Just needed you..." His face presses back into your shoulder as your fingers work through his hair like it's a perfectly normal thing to say to your best friend, like he didn't call because he had a shit game, because he doesn't want to talk about it."

"Lu...talk to me, baby"

There's a stark silence, broken only by a shaky breathe that comes from Luke as if the idea of talking is enough to make him cry for the second time that night. "I'm...i'm not good enough for the team, did a shit job tonight and we lost...it's my fault. Played like shit."

"What did Jack say?" You're gentle with it, soft voice, soft fingers on the nape of his neck. It's silly, he knows he's being dramatic, he also knows that it's not a friend thing to do. Knows he wouldn't call any of his other friends at near 2am because he needs them, knows he wouldn't beg for their fingers in his hair to sooth him or feel better just by the smell of their laundry detergent and shampoo. Luke knows he called you because he loves you, pretty sure he loved you the moment you excitedly showed him you'd gotten the coffee stain out of his UMIC hoodie.

"I was being too hard on myself, that it wasn't the 'Luke Hughes show'." He immitates Jack's voice, a pouty sort of tone riding his voice because he knows his brother is right even if he refused to sit moping with him and went out drinking instead.

"He's right. Hockey is a team sport, Luke, you aren't even on the ice the entire time! You do not get to decide that you're the reason a game is won or lost, you don't get to shoulder that."

"But.." Your palms cup his face, pulling him up to look at you. Your face is dead serious brows furrowed, lips pursed.

"No, you're a good hockey player. They picked you to play for them because of what you bring to the table and maybe you didn't play your best tonight , but you deserve to be on the team. You can't always be at 100." Your thumbs brush his cheeks under his eyes, like you might be able to wipe away the dark bags there. He looks worn, exhausted, tears just welling in those green eyes of his.

You're not entirely sure he believes you, "If I said I wasn't good enough because I had a bad day at work, what would you say to me?"

"To shut up and stop being mean to yourself..." Luke frowns at you like you're insane for even suggesting something like that, and it's what makes you smile for the first time that night, as if to say I told you so.

"Exactly, so stop being mean to yourself, Lu. You're amazing, i'm always in awe of how you skate..." You brush a curl from his eyes and watch them flutter closed slightly, throat tightening a little because you know this isn't the way you're supposed to feel about your best friend.

"Really?"

"Really..." You watch him carefully, the way he just leans more into your hands like he trusts you entirely to hold him up, the deep swelling of his lip, the beauty marks across his cheeks. "What do you need from me, right now?"

He takes a moment, like the words are stuck on the tip of his tongue whether unsure of how to ask or worried to make things weird. Both of you always toeing the line between friends and something decidedly more romantic.

"Can...can you just hold me? Just stay the night?" He blinks up at you with such big sweet eyes that you're not sure anyone would be able to refuse him, so you don't.

"I can do that."

You treat him delicately, like he's not a nearly 200 pound hockey player that regularly gets body slammed against boards and ice, who's covered in bruises and currently sporting a split lip. You pull him to lie down with you, curling around him like a protective blanket, pulling his face back into the crook of your neck, legs twisting with his. It's definitely not what friends do, but it's what he needs, so he grips you back tight, presses his face firmly into your neck and pulls your leg over his hip to be as close as possible.

You don't move more than the brush of fingers through his hair or down his arm, across his back. Even when you can hear soft snores, the sign of him having fallen asleep, you don't move because as much as Luke said he need this, you kind of need this too.

[sugarcoatedcherry]

How to enter Turiya (void) by Sadhguru

This is called if you are in the state of turya, we say you are a mrityunjaya, that means you're deathless. There are various aspects to that which we refer to as shiva. The boundless reality is referred to as shiva. The greatest of the yogis has been referred to as shiva. His dance is referred to as shiva, his music is referred to as shiva, his stillness is referred to as shiva. But of all this, him being a yogi is of the greatest importance in terms of opening up a door of possibility for every other human being. Somebody gave me many things, but for the world, that dimension which is a possibility for the world is the most important thing. So him being a yogi is the most important thing. Being a yogi means many things.

One aspect of a yogi is that he sleeps in his wakefulness and is awake in his sleep. This must be fully awake, but if you check the parameters of the body, it must be asleep. In sleep, everything should be asleep but you must be awake. Your body should sleep, your mind should sleep, everything should sleep, but you must be awake. When you fast asleep, you are in perfect tune with the existence, one with the existence. Isn't it? Nature has given you this. If you've forgotten, every day when you go to sleep it makes you one with the existence. In the same sense of unity, if you can wake up and walk around, you made it. Isn't it? Every day you have free enlightenment when you go to sleep. But the problem is you're unconscious.

This essentially is just this - that from wakefulness when you go to sleep, a certain part of you goes to sleep, a certain part of you if it still stays awake, then you made it. Otherwise, when you wake up, a certain part of you still continues to sleep, then you made it. If you are awake and fast asleep at the same time, you're asleep and awake at the same time. This is called the state of turya, when in it, we say you are a mrityunjaya, which means you're deathless. Because if you can be awake in your sleep, you will also be awake when you have to shed the body, so there is no question of death for such a person. Life and death are happening at the same time. It is only the ignorant who think right now I am alive and one day I will die.

If you master your mortality, if you just manage to stay awake when you slip into sleep, you see this is an opportunity for you. The best preparation for death is to make an attempt to try to fall asleep consciously. Instead of drifting away, if you shift from wakefulness to sleep consciously, death will become a plague. The moment of sleep is a tremendous opportunity. If you sleep in a certain way, tomorrow morning when you wake up you can be significantly one notch up. Every day you have this opportunity to practice death. If you can manage that moment like you can do this consciously right, just like that from wakefulness to sleep, if you can do it that way, that's it.

source - transcript from this video

[floralscented]

ㅤ ㅤㅤㅤㅤlazy mornings . . . charlie baker.

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"shh," charlie whispers in your ear, each of the shallow thrusts between your pressed together legs enough to make the rickety bed shake against the wall. "gotta be quiet for me, alright?"

quiet was a word you weren't sure that anyone in the baker family knew the meaning of. outside of his closed and locked door, you could hear his siblings chasing each other down the halls, doors slamming and creaking open, voices coming and going.

charlie was used to it, you knew. impossible not to be. but that didn't make it any less nerve wracking to have the pressure of silence on your shoulders, lest one of his siblings catch wind that he was awake, and try to barge in.

his arm tightens around your chest, tugging you back into him, each shift of his hips grinding further into you. he was still tired, his movements lazy, but he always knew how to make you squirm.

your lips part in a shuddering breath, and his other hand atop your mouth loosens a little, his cheek nuzzling into the side of your neck. "sorry," he says, pressing little kisses on your skin, his morning voice rough against the smooth column of your throat.

you try to whisper back to him, but your words are caught there, right beneath his lips, and instead, all you can do is press your head backwards again, further into the warmth of his chest.

charlie shifts a little, moving you along with him, and the bed creaks a little too loudly, his cock stilling inside of you. listening, and waiting, for any sign that his family heard him starting to stir. your breath joins your words in your mouth, lodged behind every sound that wants to come out.

"i think it's okay," you whisper into his fingers, pressing a kiss to one of his fingertips in the process. one of your hands drops down to his thigh to urge him on, nails scraping lightly on the warm skin. "i think─"

"charlie?" mr. baker's voice is as loud as a gong in your ears, your words stuttering off into nothing at the sound of it. "you finally awake?"

charlie buries his face into your neck, letting out a sigh just for you. and to your horror, a smile, too, just for you, as he starts to push inside of you again. "go away, dad," he calls over your shoulder.

your heart is in your throat already, but it pounds at the rattle of the doorknob. thank god charlie locked it last night. thank god some things could stay secret in a house of fourteen.

"why is your door locked?" mr. baker asks, and he's still rattling the knob as if it'll loosen the bolts inside and magically open, and charlie is still slowly rocking his hips in your wet heat, and you think you might just die, really.

charlie's arm tightens around your stomach, pulling you against him all over again, this time in rhythm with each deeper push into you. his other hand clasps around your mouth again, like he can sense it, the way your lips start to shudder and the dam in your throat starts to break. "because i wanted t'actually try and sleep in, for once," he says finally, and maybe you're paranoid, but his voice sounds more gravelly than before, strained at the edges.

mr. baker can't meet you for the first time like this. with charlie buried inside of you, and you naked in his son's bed.

your nails dig into charlie's leg in warning. his palm curls around your waist in silent answer. still, he doesn't stop.

"you should know by now that sleeping in is not something that happens in this family," mr. baker laughs through the door, rapping his knuckles against it. "c'mon. up n' attem. breakfast's gonna get cold."

charlie groans again in your ear. another sound just for you. no words were being spoken but it was almost like a conversation, anyways. "m'coming, alright?"

"alright, kid," mr. baker says, and for a second, it's quiet again. there's just the sound of your muffled breaths into charlie's palm, and his soft noises pressed behind your ear. but things were never so easy in the baker house. "hey, isn't your girlfriend coming by this afternoon?"

charlie doesn't answer. heat coils in your lower stomach, snapping and biting in warning, your breaths coming out more frantic. again, you can feel charlie's smile quirk against your skin.

his thrusts slow, each one more deliberate as he stretches out your fluttering walls to fit him. "yeah," charlie finally answers, his arm firmly around your waist, holding you tight as you fall apart, the hand around your mouth loosening, "yeah, she's comin'."

you have enough sensibility to not make a sound as your body shakes with the force of your pleasure. you also have enough sensibility to elbow charlie in the ribs for what he says.

"good, good," mr. baker hums.

charlie pushes one more time inside of you, harder than the last, as his cock twitches, coating your walls with the thick white beads of his cum. he presses one more kiss into the crook of your shoulder before he goes lax behind you, tugging you back into his arms.

mr. baker's voice starts to fade, becoming more distant, but not far away enough for you not to hear his final utterance of, "henry says she's lovely."

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this is very niche. so i am dedicating it to the two pookies i KNOWWWW will get it. @deansbeer & @titsout4jackles this one's 4 u.

[rottenpumpkin13]

AGSZC all receive one of those massive squishmallows

(I was drawing Seph with one. He deserves a soft little squishy plush I think :3c)

Cloud, with a chocobo: "I feel like this is bullying, but I don't want to seem ungrateful."

Zack, with a dog: "I think you should be thrilled! :) He looks exactly like you."

*Zack's screams of terror as Cloud terrorizes him with his shoe*

Sephiroth, holding a cat squishmallow at arm's length: "While this toy is undeniably soft, its presence in my possession serves no apparent functional purpose."

Genesis, with a chicken: "Suit yourself. I personally love my chicken squishmallow. They are, in their own humble way, beautiful creatures."

Angeal, with a bear: "You had chicken for lunch."

Genesis: "No I didn't. It was chocobo meat."

*Genesis' screams of terror as Cloud shifts his focus from Zack to assault him with the shoe instead*

Angeal: "Look, Sephiroth, you don't have to actually play with it. You can just keep it as a comfort object. Hold it when you're stressed, kinda like how I'm doing right now, see?"

Sephiroth: "I suppose you're right. The plush texture is rather soothing, much like that premium chocobo feather pillow I sleep with."

*Sephiroth's screams of terror as Cloud attempts to murder him with his shoe*

[genshingorlsrevengeance]

(H:SR/GFL) A Cold Night with Seele, Bronya, Natasha, and Serval

I'm freezing my ass off right now and decided to write this in a vain attempt to get warmer

Seele was relatively used to the cold, and so was every citizen of Belebog and the Underworld.

Still, that did little to comfort her S/O, who was shivering inside their shared home.

(S/O) "M-Man, why did our heater have to break down now?"

Seele sighed and sat herself next to S/O on the couch, leaning back into it.

(Seele) "A replacement is coming in tomorrow, thankfully. Just tough it out till then."

Her eyes drifted over to S/O, who had both arms attempting in vain to warm themselves. A second or two passed before Seele's cheeks was dusted with pink, as she leaned over to S/O.

Letting herself grab them and hold them close and already start to warm up with their body heat.

(S/O) "S-Seele?"

(Seele) "This...should be good for now, yeah?"

(S/O) "Better than just a blanket, heh..."

She refused to meet their gaze, instead just holding onto them tighter as S/O reciprocated, the two of them not saying much of anything and enjoying each other's warmth.

And Seele couldn't help the small smile forming on her lips as she snuggled closer to S/O, her embarrassment doing a good job of keeping her warm.

(S/O) "...That being said, can we grab a blanket too?"

Though that comment made her just scoff and roll her eyes playfully.

(Seele) "Sure, lemme grab one you big baby."

Even with Bronya's heater at full blast, tonight's storm was particularly fierce.

(Bronya) "S/O, are our blankets sufficient enough?"

(S/O) "As much as they can be, I'm still a little cold though..."

(Bronya) "I see."

Bronya looked around her room, trying to find an extra blanket or layer of clothes for S/O, until an idea came to mind.

(Bronya) "S/O, would you come here for a moment?"

(S/O) "Hm? Sure."

Before they could ask what was up, she gently took their hand and dragged them into bed, before promptly taking them into a hug.

S/O simply smiled and let Bronya get in close, the cold already fading from the room.

Though Bronya was a little flustered, little acts of affection like this in private was where she was fully confident.

(Bronya) "Is that better, my love?"

(S/O) "Hah, yes, my lady."

Giggling at the nickname, she rests her head against S/O's, the two of them not taking long to drift to sleep.

Natasha had a rather fluffy blanket, so the cold in the room wasn't too bad. But even just a little nip in the air would be a good excuse for her to get closer to S/O.

Not that they had any complaints, of course.

Natasha rolls to her side and grabs S/O, her head resting against their back as her arms snake around their stomach and holding them close.

(S/O) "Hm...? Nat?"

(Natasha) "Oh, don't mind me. Just needing to get warm real quick."

S/O could only laugh at her playful tone, shuffling closer to her to close the distance.

(S/O) "I'm not a teddy bear, you know."

(Natasha) "You're right. You're even better."

Serval hogs the blanket at night, leaving S/O absolutely freezing much to their dismay.

They have to shake her a few times before she groggily opens her eyes.

(Serval) "H-Huh? Hm...wassup?"

(S/O) "Serval, you're stealing the blanket again!"

Serval mumbles something incoherent before shimmying inside her mini-cocoon, allowing the blanket to cover S/O.

They were about to close their eyes until they were yanked by Serval's strength, into her arms as she nuzzled closer and wrapped the blanket around them.

(Serval) yawn "That better?"

(S/O) "...Y-Yes..."

She gives them one last cheeky smile before resting her head on their chest, letting S/O blush madly before quickly falling back asleep.

...And in the morning, she'd somehow have the blanket entirely around her again.

[thehypnone]

Symbol on the Surface Chapter 19

WC: 1,9k

Relationship: SwissAlps

Tags: Transmasc Swiss, Fluff, Fluff, and even more Fluff, Tooth Rotting Levels of Fluff, Baby Fever Warning :3

“We’re not in the Pit. They won’t have to grow up scared and alone in survival mode, but instead here, with us. Surrounded by love.”

Notes: Tysm to @jimothybarnes for being the best beta ever!

Chapter 1 here or on AO3.

Read chapter 19 under the cut or on AO3.

Swiss wakes up to movement on his chest.

It seems like it’s the middle of the night; he grumbles and opens his eyes to look down blearily and he nearly jumps out of his own skin.

Right. He’s given birth yesterday—the pain between his legs only confirms the conclusion, as if three kits cuddled up together right on top of him aren’t enough proof.

“Woah,” Swiss mutters to himself in complete disbelief.

Beside him, Mountain is asleep and so are two of their kits. The third one is awake and the multi ghoul suddenly realises that she’s staring at him with her bright gold eyes—just like his own. He didn’t even know kits opened their eyes right away upon birth.

“Hello there,” he rumbles quietly with a grin as he extends a finger towards the kit to rub her tummy. She lets out a little content noise at that, making Swiss giggle. “You’re so tiny, aren’t you?”

The multi ghoul, of course, doesn’t get a response, but he’s more than pleased anyway. He’s been worried about the kit since he’s found out one of them is significantly smaller than the rest, but now—not even twenty four hours since she’s been born—the tiny ghoulette is proving to make up for size with character.

She tries to grab onto Swiss’ finger, but it appears to be too big for only one of her hands, so she struggles some before using both to wrap around it. Swiss purrs gently as she settles and they both fall back asleep after a moment.

The next thing he knows it’s the morning and Mountain’s sitting up by his side staring at the kits.

“Nghnghn–ow,” Swiss groans when he comes to again.

“You okay?” the earth ghoul asks instinctively, but then catches himself. “Dumb question.”

“Just a little,” his mate giggles sleepily, “I’m good but three demons crawled out of my pussy yesterday, so.”

“They’re such adorable demons, though!” Mountain coos. “You can’t hold that against them.”

“Yeah, you’re right,” Swiss sighs with a smile, moving to rub the biggest kit’s fluffy back with two fingers. He twitches a little at that, making his dads’ smiles grow.

Now with the kits clean and in the light, Swiss and Mountain can finally take a proper look at their creations. They’re all fuzzy with fur that is going to go away in the next couple weeks as their bodies adapt to the temperature outside of Swiss’ womb, and because of that not many of their features can be seen just yet.

The things that do stand out, and are making the parents completely enamored, are the kits’ eyes, horns and tails. All the horns are only tiny nubs on the kits’ heads and the tails barely the length of Mountain’s pinky finger—absolutely adorable.

The eyes, though?

Three pairs of beautiful glowing eyes. The biggest kit’s eyes are the exact bright shade of green as Mountain’s, the tiny girl’s are gold like Swiss’—with small purple swirls of her quintessence already showing—and the middle one’s are a gorgeous shade of royal blue.

“I love them so much,” Mountain murmurs with a smile that’s been on his face for quite a while now. They’re all resting; the earth ghoul staring at his children in adoration as they sleep on Swiss’ chest.

“They’re not feeding now,” he notes, looking between the kits and his mate, “I think you should hold them, Omega said skin-to-skin and scenting with both of us is important. Besides, they’re as much your kits as mine.”

“I didn’t carry them inside me for seven months,” Mountain chuckles, but gives it up upon Swiss rolling his eyes. “Let’s see if they even like me.”

Somehow Swiss rolls his eyes even harder.

The earth ghoul expects his mate to pick the babies up and hand them over, but he makes no move to do so, so Mountain takes it as his cue. He’s as gentle as possible when he grabs the first kit and brings her against his own bare chest, then the others. Swiss turns on his side and rests his head on the earth ghoul’s shoulder to still be as close as possible to them.

The babies seem to be hardwired to come close together wherever they are—even asleep. It’s sickeningly adorable; watching three sleeping kits mewl quietly and wiggle in close to each other.

“I can–” Mountain giggles in amazement and disbelief, “I can feel their tiny heartbeats.”

He could cry; and he just might. Ever since the incident with Aeon he’s been terrified of himself, of his strength and size, of hurting more of his pack, his mate, his kits. Now, these tiny creatures are sleeping on his chest safe, right next to a heart that’s basically beating for them.

He sniffles, “They’re so small, how–how the hell did we manage to make them? How can something so small even…exist?” 

Swiss only smiles and nods. He understands what Mountain’s feeling.

The two of them just enjoy watching their kits sleep on Mountain for a while, beaming when one by one their children wake up. At first they’re adorably sleepy, mewling and squeaking, but then they start to move and…sniff around.

 “Why are they so sniffy?” Mountain asks, as if Swiss knows more about ghoul kits than he does.

“I think that’s how they’re scenting,” the multi ghoul says, but it’s more a question than a statement.

“No, I think they’d be–”

“Ah.”

“Rubbing against our necks,” Mountain finishes as the kits are now doing exactly that.

“Yup,” Swiss giggles as the middle kit wriggles up against his very chin. She seems to be appreciating the scratch of his stubble on the top of her head. “It tickles!”

“Try purring,” the earth ghoul suggests as he kicks up a purr on his own, his mate following. The kits keep on rubbing against both their necks, where the scent glands are, but then– “Are they…?” 

“Yes!” Swiss exclaims—but not too loudly—as the kits join in with their own tiny purrs; first purrs of their lives. “I’m gonna cry, this is too cute.”

After a moment, something crosses Mountain’s mind. “I just realized…” 

“Hm?”

“We’re not in the Pit. They won’t have to grow up scared and alone in survival mode,” he explains, “but instead here, with us and the pack. Surrounded by love.”

The multi ghoul’s jaw drops a little, and if either of them tears up at that thought—it’s their business.

The next day, Swiss is still not very mobile, of course. He’s in pain and bleeding every time he stands, so it’s not comfortable in the slightest, but thankfully, he doesn’t have to get up much.

Mountain’s the one to do the kits’ nappies—not only because he’s letting Swiss rest, but also because he’s significantly better at that task. He doesn’t mind, although navigating around the tiny ghoul’s wriggly tails is not making it especially easy.

The third day of the kits’ life, Swiss and Mountain decide to attempt dressing them in some of the clothes they’ve gotten for them; both themselves and from their pack. It’s not easy to choose their first ever outfit, but the parents agree on the bunny onesies of Cumulus’ making.

Dressing the biggest kit is easy enough, he’s quite calm. The middle one goes even smoother, it’s as if she even helps. The smallest one, though?

She is fiercely refusing to get dressed for a while and Mountain is struggling. He wins that battle at the end simply because the kit gets tired. And because the onesie is a little too big for her.

Once dressed, Swiss and Mountain coo over them for a good five minutes before they return to the nest. Both dads are on their sides with the kits between them; simply watching them exist.

“I think we should introduce them to the pack today,” the multi ghoul says quietly at some point.

“Yeah?” Mountain raises an eyebrow. “Do you feel ready for that? We can wait, there’s no rush.”

“Yeah, just…just a quick introduction today, I think.”

“Alright. Yeah, that sounds good.”

With the decision made, Mountain texts the group chat and invites everyone for the little meating in half an hour. Everyone is excited and so are Swiss and Mountain, but they do have to psych themselves up for that.

The pack slowly fills the room and quiet gasps, cooing, and squeals of joy sound out as soon as everyone’s eyes land on the babies. Mountain and Swiss smile proudly—even though both their instincts are quite tuned up at everyone getting in their space. They were invited and it’s their family, though, so they’re not actually worried by any means.

“This is the most adorable thing I’ve ever seen!” Aurora exclaims, clapping her hands excitedly.

“Thank you, thank you,” Swiss chuckles with pride.

Mountain grins next to him. “We’ve made them ourselves.”

“Can we finally learn the names?” Aeon asks as he cocks his head to the side like a curious puppy. The earth ghoul smirks.

“This tiny thing,” he starts as he lifts up the smallest of their kits, “is Arya.”

“This princess is Aelin,” Swiss nods towards the kit currently curled up in his arms and asleep.

“And this little guy’s name,” Mountain presents the last one—his mini-me, “is Amon.”

“That’s so beautiful!” Aurora squeals.

“You guys really went all in with the meanings, letters, elements, and everything?” Cirrus laughs, wiggling her eyebrows.

“Could you…eh, explain? I'm not too familiar with ghoulish,” Copia asks; a little awkwardly.

“Aelin is a water ghoulette and the word means lake in ghoulish.” Swiss starts explaining indeed. “Amon is earth and it means hill, so basically–”

“Little mountain!” Rain supplies.

“Oh my god, are you kidding me, that’s so awfully cute. He really is a little you!” Cumulus cheers, turning to Mountain holding Amon.

“What about that wriggly little creature?” Dewdrop points to Arya.

“Arya is a character from Game of Thrones, a very feisty one, just like this little girl. She’s fire and quintessence,” it’s the earth ghoul’s turn to explain. “The word arya also means day and I just thought it fits the elements.”

“How did you settle on who names two of them and who does one?” Aeon asks.

“Rock paper scissors,” he shrugs, making everyone chuckle.

“We’re so proud of you guys,” Sunshine coos, nearly heart-eyed.

“Thank you,” Swiss and Mountain say in unison, with soft smiles on their faces. They are quite proud of themselves, too.

“Alright everyone, we should go now,” Aether decides soon enough, taking the burden of having to kick them out off of the two dads.

“Let me know if you figure out how you two managed to make them,” Rain teases as they filter out, winking at Mountain, “Might wanna put one or two in Dew.”

The fire ghoul chokes on his spit as everyone else bursts out laughing. The kits do not mind in the slightest; they’re completely unbothered.

Yes, they are going to fit right into this crazy pack.

Taglist: @arkeusruin @skele-bunny @everybodyshusband @ratsummer @jazz-bazz @mac-and-thefox @karmicbias @wine-irytatus @ghoultrifle (if anyone from here wants to be removed lmk, and also if anyone else wants to be added)

[abarbaricyalp]

If you’re still taking mini fic prompts, I’d love to see your take on “things you said while we were driving” for Sambucky!

Hi!!! The temptation to make this a Twisters au was so great but, no, it's a minific, have some self control

From this ask meme

The drive from DC to Delacroix was somewhere between 16 and 19 hours, depending on how badly they were tearing up the road along the way and what time of day it was. Bucky could usually get it down to fifteen or even fourteen, if it was dark and he had a scanner running. Still, it was always easier to fly.

But, between the way him and Sam looked at the moment, the fact that the wings and shield weren't exactly checked items, and they were ferrying some suspect files, some kind of liquid the color of hell rot, and something called a landshark, the plane wasn't really a viable option.

So they had dragged themselves out of a safe house, argued about who got to drive, and set off. (Sam had lost. His left arm was broken in two places and he had a cast and brace on, two new pieces of metal in the bone) (Bucky had made a joke that now they matched and waved his left arm around, to make Sam smile. It had the opposite effect, with Sam scowling and ignoring him for the first hour of the drive) (Sam was a terrible patient)

At some point, he'd shoved his face against the window, trying to sleep, and Bucky had nearly veered off the road in his haste to stop the truck. "You can't do that," he fussed as he dug out a coat from the back seat. The landshark creature growled at him when Bucky accidentally smacked its side. "You have a concussion."

"I'm fine," Sam groaned. "You're not gonna bruise my brain any more by hitting a pothole."

Bucky still shoved the coat at Sam, balled up and ready for use. Grudgingly, Sam used it as a pillow against the window and tried to lay his head back down.

A few minutes later, the landshark climbed over the console and took up residence in Sam's lap to join in on the nap. Typical, Sam was a friend to animals everywhere. It would track that even the fake ones would like him.

They slept for four hours straight, Bucky reaching over to rub the back of Sam's neck every half hour. Sam still woke up with a crick in it.

"Almost halfway there," Bucky told him as he stretched and the landshark climbed back into the backseat with their gear and bags.

"Let me have a shift," Sam muttered. He rubbed his eyes, squinted out the windshield, then rubbed them again.

"Yeah, you seem like you're in great shape for it," Bucky agreed sarcastically. "This is hardly the longest I've been up for. I'm fine."

"It's getting dark," Sam argued. "We should stop for food at least. You need to stretch."

"You're forgetting who you're dealing with."

"Maybe you're forgetting who you are. You don't have to push yourself to the brink all the time."

"But you ought to use that broken arm and concussion instead?"

Sam shrugged, then grimaced when it obviously jostled his shoulder. Bucky made a noise without looking over again.

"You're gonna exhaust yourself," he muttered.

"And there's a beach chair with my name on it at the end of this, so I'll recover quickly."

"It does not have your name on it," Sam grumbled. "It literally has my name carved in the arm."

Bucky knew that. He'd traced the old, worn letters many times. "I could add my name," he suggested.

"Don't you dare. That's my chair."

The landshark made a reappearance before Bucky could really neddle in. It sat on the center console and kept looking between the both of them. Sam put his hand on its head, having to move his whole casted arm to do it.

"Can you pet a shark?" he asked.

"One direction, yeah. Don't drag your hand up from its tail."

"Why not? Aren't sharks smooth?"

"Wilson, I swear to God--"

Sam squeezed the inside of Bucky's thigh. He had to use his right arm to reach, which meant he'd had to turn in his seat some. If Bucky's alertness had flagged any (it hadn't) he was certainly fully awake now. He kept his eyes very firmly on the road.

"Relax, old man, I was just messing with you."

Sam probably would've kept his hand on Bucky’s leg for a while longer, except that he was turned in his seat. He let go and raised both arms enough for the landshark to get back into his lap.

"Are you hungry?" Bucky asked eventually.

"Yeah, I could eat," Sam answered, which meant they had about twenty minutes to get food in him before he got snippy.

Bucky passed over his phone (he had all the routes to Delacroix memorized but he liked to know about construction) and told Sam to find some place.

Sam chose some burger joint eight miles down the road and passed the phone back. He turned his attention back to the window, rolling it down and putting his hand out into the warm night air. He rested his chin on his bicep as he glided his hand through the air currents.

Bucky watched him, the one singular, focused spot against a blurry background of stars and trees. Sam was usually his one focused spot in a world that seemed to be nothing but tumbling, out of control speeding blurs, so that was nothing new.

But the moonlight and scarce freeway lights splashed across Sam's face, and the idle way he kept trying to pet the creature in his lap without moving his arm, and the quiet concentration he'd fallen into were all very overwhelming.

He'd meant to say, 'put your arm back in the car before you lop it off on an exit sign.' What he actually said, breathy and endeared, was, "I'm so in love with you."

Sam startled upright and he pulled his arm back into the truck, so at least that part worked. "What?" he asked.

The creature in his lap was annoyed by the sudden movement, but it just turned in one circle and laid back down in the other direction.

Bucky's face felt like it was on fire. It was definitely hotter than the air coming in from outside. Hell, he was blushing so bad, he was beginning to feel it in his left arm. "Whatever, you should know," he mumbled. It's not like he could take the words back out of the air or pretend he'd said something else. Those were pretty distinct words.

Sam didn't respond right away. Bucky very much so considered jumping out of the cab.

The exit for the burger place came up and he took it without really thinking about it, or really anything that wasn't the shocked span of Sam's eyes.

When Sam did say something, it was, "Don't rip the steering wheel out."

"What?" Bucky asked in exasperation.

"Your knuckles are so white, I thought it was bone. Relax your hands."

Bucky did. The material of the steering wheel creaked with the release. "One day, you're gonna stop thinking that joke's funny."

"You said you loved me," Sam countered. And he definitely meant it as a counter argument.

"It should've been obvious."

Sam startled a little again, like a violent shiver. "How long should it have been obvious for?"

Bucky shrugged. "I dunno. Obvious? Since Latvia, at least."

"Latvia?" Sam half shouted, strangled. The landshark vacated his lap. "We didn't start... dating or whatever for months after that! What do you mean, since Latvia?"

Bucky shrugged again, felt his fingers tighten around the wheel once more. "I don't know, Sam. I haven't been hiding it."

"Oh, bullshit!" Sam argued. "You disappeared right after that again."

Bucky's jaw tightened. There was no argument for that. He had. "I didn't know what to do with it. How to hold it, where to put it, how to show it. It's been a long time. And you're... It felt like diving straight into the ocean. The deep part of it. And I've been learning how to swim in the middle of a hurricane ever since."

Again, Sam didn't immediately reply. Bucky was beginning to hate that. The burger joint came up from between a thick line of trees and Bucky almost missed it, but the parking lot was long enough that he could pull into the far side of it. He killed the engine and tried to dash out of the car. This would be less painful than jumping out on the freeway.

Sam nabbed his sleeve before he could grab the door and Bucky froze because Sam was using his left hand. The last thing Bucky needed to do was aggravate his splints.

"Don't run away again," he said.

"We're literally going into the same diner," Bucky pointed out, playing at dumb because that was easier than accepting Sam's metaphor.

Sam just stared at him. For a man with as many injuries as he was sporting, his face was remarkably clear. Bucky was the one who looked like he'd gone three rounds with a rock 'em sock 'em robot. There was one gash across Sam's eyebrow and his nose was a little swollen, plus the bruise at his temple that made Bucky's heart stop every time he thought it had changed shape. But he was still perfectly Sam. Still staring at Bucky, waiting for him to respond like an adult.

"I'm not running away," he breathed finally. "You're the one who looks like he's ready to bolt."

"I'm not bolting," Sam said. He let go of Bucky's sleeve, but took his hand before Bucky could go for the door again. "But don't drop that on me in the middle of a seventeen hour drive while I'm concussed and on pain meds."

"You do need to take more meds," Bucky said.

Sam looked unimpressed.

"I'm not gonna be sorry for loving you," Bucky added. "I'm not apologizing for saying it. But... don't tell Sarah that I did and you didn't like it."

"I didn't say I didn't like it."

"Sam," Bucky sighed, his turn with the unimpressed eyes.

"I didn't. I just...wasn't expecting it."

Bucky squeezed Sam's hand and let go of it, finally shoving open the door. "We should get something for your new friend. What do they even eat? License plates?" he asked, stalling and distracting as he got out.

Sam sighed from inside the cab, but he followed Bucky out of the truck. "I'm sure a few extra burgers will do the job."

Bucky scrubbed at his face, willing his blush to go away or for any of the bruises that still pulsed beneath his skin to hide it. He looked up at the sky, the stars so damn bright in the middle of Fuckall, North or South Carolina. And for just a second, they were still and warm and Sam was the blur in front of him.

But Sam grabbed his sleeve again and pulled him onto the porch of the diner. The stars tilted away as Sam put two fingers to Bucky's jaw and kissed him.

[clrasecretdiary]

You're just a little bit too much like me | Spencer Reid x Reader

Enemies to lovers | angsty fluff

Word count: 1755

Warnings: Normal criminal minds type of violence, mention of guns and gunshots, age gap (Reader is about 25, and Spencer is in his late 30s)

Content: Spencer being an asshole because he doesn't know how to deal with his feelings and how you remind him of his older self, past Spencer trauma (implied but not directly mentioned), self-doubt, Post prison! Spence

It was a difficult situation, only your second week on the job and the first time you had to make that kind of decision. You went alone to a location where the suspect might have been at, all of your teammates were further away so, as reckless as you now recognize it was, you went there alone, instead of waiting like Spencer and Emily asked you too. You didn't want to lose your chance, there were more than 3 days on the field at stake here, you did not want to disappoint your colleagues and just stand there waiting like a dumb newbie, so you made the decision.

“I'm going in” You warn your teammates in the radio, not waiting for a response before storming into the unsubs house.

You bust the door open with your feet, storming into the house. As you look inside, you find the unsub taking his gun from a drawer. Thinking you had an advantage as his back was facing you, you rush to try and immobilize him, but somehow he managed to turn around and shoot you.

You growled in pain as your body dropped to the ground, just before you passed out completely you heard the sound of rushed footsteps. You heard two voices, one you recognized as Emily's going after the unsub, and the other as Reid's talking to you.

“Please don’t go to sleep, we need you awake” His voice was soothing, far different from the tone he always used with you ever since you joined the team this year, but he sounded so worried, and you really did try to stay awake for him, for your team, to show that you were okay and that they needed to go after what's important, the unsub, but you couldn't. The last thing you heard as your vision got black was him yelling at his radio, “Medical, we need medical right now”. And then, everything went black.

You are now back at your first day on the job. Still at your house, confused as to what outfit you should use, so anxious about being so young at the top team of profilers, even thought it was a last year internship you hoped to impress them enough that they would hire you officially for the team, so your anxiety was through the roof wondering whether you really deserved to be there (goddamn that impostor syndrome). But most of your worries went away when you met the team, you would never imagine that the best profilers in the FBI and maybe in the world would be such good, kind and even funny people. They all welcomed you, seeming excited to be able to work with you, except from one of them.

Doctor Spencer Reid, you had read about him and his genius mind, you even went to a couple of his lectures on forensic psychology, honestly? You were a fan, and you were so excited to meet and work with someone you looked up to. Unfortunately, he didn't seem as eager to meet his new coworker. He just stood there in the back, staring at you while you introduced yourself to the team, the most he did was mutter a “morning” when you sat next to him in the briefing room.

Never meet your heroes, they say.

Now, you're back at… Where are you again?

Your eyes begin to open, you're completely adrift until you finally begin to recognize the awful white light, and the coldness of the room. You're at the hospital, no idea as to how much time has passed.

Jennifer comes into your line of vision, holding your hand, “Hey, how are you feeling?” her voice is calm, as she watches you sit up in the hospital bed.

“I'm fine, I think... I didn't even realize what happened back then. Oh shit, did you guys catch him?” You abruptly try to sit up, remembering how you couldn't get the unsub when you got shot, guilt washing over you as you started to piece together what happened

“Hey slow down, Emily went after him and made the arrest, the victim was rescued. He shot you, but it just grazed you. You did lose a lot of blood, that's why you passed out, but the doctors say you'll be fine to leave today. Don't worry.” She says as the doctor comes in to do his final checking.

You just agree with your head, lost in your own thoughts. You knew it wasn't your fault that you got shot, but still you felt so stupid. The hurt of not being able to catch the unsub might've been even bigger than the one from your wound, all of them had been in even more difficult situations than you and made it out without so much as a scratch, and you couldn't even catch an unsub that was alone?

After a few hours, you were back on the jet, finally heading home. The guilty was still bothering you, and you even apologized for the mistake. Hotch just asked you to be more careful and follow instructions next time, but overall, the team seemed genuinely happy you were fine. Except, of course, for Spencer, who ever since you got in the jet was staring daggers at you.

Later, the jet finally landed, and you were eager to get home. You quickly went to the office to get a few of your things, Unfortunately, you and Spencer were now all alone in an uncomfortable silence waiting for the elevator.

“That was reckless” Spencer mutters under his breath

“I'm sorry, what?” You turn in your heels to face him, had you heard that right? Is that the first thing he's going to tell you after you just got shot?

“What you did on the case, was reckless and naive. You should've followed our instructions, you can't just do what you feel like doing” he's looking in your eye now, his voice coming out angry but with a hint of… worry?

“I'm sorry ok? I tried to do something, I just did not want to just stay there waiting while he could be doing god knows what inside that house” Your voice comes out more shaky than you wanted it to, the weight of the guilt pressing into your chest

“Still, it was reckless and stupid, you should never just storm into, alone, a place where an unsub might be, you never know what he might do to you, what might be waiting inside.” His gaze is cold, almost as if he's not actually here talking to you, but somewhere inside his head and his memories.

“Trust me, I know that. I regret my decision, but I wasn't doing what I felt like, I tried my best, Reid.” You turn to look directly in his eye. Yes you did something wrong, but you wouldn't let him out of all people talk like that to you “I might be the youngest on the team, the one with less experience but trust me… I'm not dumb, I earned my place here.” Your voice shaky when you said that last sentence, the insecurity you felt showing through your words.

Something in his gaze shifted after that, his expression became softer, almost sympathetic. “Listen, I'm not saying you're not qualified, I'm sorry if it came off like that, just be careful… That could have ended a lot worse, trust me I know”

“ I will” The air between you two less intimidating now but still heavy with tension, you two step in the elevator, the whole way to the garage an awkward silence until you two finally reach the bullpen's garage.  

Even thought you felt like now maybe he didn't absolutely want you gone from the team, you were still curious as to why he is so cold to you

“Sorry, I need to ask… Why do you hate me?” You turn to him, after finally gathering the courage to ask this question

“What do you mean, don't hate you”

“Yes you do, I mean you're not obligated to like me but since I joined, you didn't even meet me yet and just gave this cold look”

His eyebrows furrowed as he processed your words, clearly taken aback by your directness. He sighed, a hint of regret in his eyes, and rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly. "It's not about you personally," he finally admitted, his voice softer than before.

“What is it about, then?”

He takes a deep breath before starting to talk “You're only 3 years older than me when I joined this team, I know what it does you, to your mind. I guess I just saw way too much of me, of who I used to be, in you, and it terrified me to be honest” His cold facade disappeared completely now, in its place a soft and genuine expression.

“So you were, and I'm sorry for the words, an asshole to me because you were worried?” You almost can't wrap your head around it, all this time you felt like one of your biggest references in the BAU hated you, but instead he was caring for you.

“Yes, I see how it comes out as “asshole” behavior, but my brain just went full shutdown when i saw you” His face turns slightly red when he notices what he just said – Freudian slip or just a bad choice of words? He doesn't's know for sure – His hand goes to awkwardly scratch the back of his neck “I mean… for the resemblance, of how I acted when I had just joined, of course”

You give him a small smile, and just like that your side that has been a fan and read all of this man's articles comes back to life “Of course. Thank you for worrying but maybe instead of hating me you could… I don't know, if it's not too much of a bother of course, help me? I value your worries Doc, maybe you could help me not make the same mistakes you did”

He nodded, a hint of relief washing over his features. "I'd be happy to help," he said, a genuine smile finally breaking through. "I might not have all the answers, but I can definitely share what I've learned along the way."

“I'm happy to hear that, thanks, Doc. Reid” You wave at him as you begin walking over to your car.

“Hey, just call me Spencer” He smiles warmly at you

“See you tomorrow Spencer”

[yzur02]

Why am I anxious (Tom Cardy)

Tim: I just woke up, should I drink water and stretch? (No, no)

I'm gonna drink three cups of coffee

And smoke a cigarette instead

And then I'll go on social media until it's dinner time

Yeah, smoke some weed and then I binge-eat

Then I got a little time to complain online

I'm anxious

Why is God doing this to me?

Steph: Ooh, it's a mystery, what could it be?

Jason: Possibly it's all your apathy

Tim: Why am I anxious?

I would try to do anything

To make my life feel better

Except anything that makes my life feel better

Hey baby, I'm self-aware!

I got that Headspace app, because I care

Jason: All the talk in the world don't mean shit

Damian: If just like this guy, you're a hypocrite

Tim: Who are you calling hypocrite? I'm a fucking martyr

I've given up sugar and no milk products either

Still feel anxious, it's just not fair for someone like me

So self-aware

Dick: You're not self-aware

Cass: You're a big dumb fuck

Duke: With a dumb fuck face

Harper: And now you're outta luck

Tim: If you're so smart, why am I sad?

Bruce: Because twice a week you get on the bags

Tim: Well, maybe it's that

Everyone: It's definitely that

Do I need more hugs?

Corrie: Stop taking drugs

Tim: I guess we'll never know for sure

Corrie: Yes we will motherfucker, it's because-

Tim: Why am I anxious?

Damian, with a timer: You only sleep four hours a night

Tim: Aah, why am I anxious?

Alfred, showing Tim's half eaten dinner: You never ever eat right

Tim: Aah, that was rhetorical

Babs: Then why did you post a photo of yourself

Without a shirt on and a caption

Can anybody tell me

Tim: Why am I anxious?

Why is God doing this to me?

Even though I ask, I don't want to know

I want to get better, but slow

Why am I anxious?

I know what's good for me

Except everything

Oh, I think that could be it

☆Anxious☆

[aradassbadass]

cellular sentiment| ceedee lamb

in which you and ceedee have been friends for a while but you only talk on the phone but he surprises you after his game.

you jolted awake as you felt the vibrations on your face.

“huh?” you say eyes still shut.

“damn what took you so long to answer i called you thirty eleven times.” the voice on the other side made you smile.

“hush cedarian, i was sleep.” you mumble turning over eyes still closed.

“thats all you do is sleep.” he says and you roll your eyes- or try to at least.

“what do you want man, why you call me this late?” you ask trying to sound annoyed.

he just laughs, “its 6 oclock in the evening almost 7, aint shit late about it, and i thought you said you was gone watch our game today just lies.” he says teasingly.

“hush yall ass. probably lost anyways, you know you sorry.” you laugh.

“shii, i dont know who you talking to but im far from sorry.” he sasses back. you cant help but laugh. “nah, but forreal though i was just trying to see what you had planned tonight.”

you finally open your eyes and the light from him dimly illuminates your face and he glances down.

“you so beautiful.” he smiles and you blush immediately dropping the phone.

“oh my God please stop.”

“im forreal- you know i always tell you that.”he says and you roll your eyes blushing even harder.

“thank you but anyways im not finna do nothing hell i may get up and cook but then its right back in bed for me- i got work tomorrow. i already got my gown on and everything.”

“which one? better be the one i got you.” he says.

“and is, what should i cook? steak and potatoes or shrimp fried rice?” you ask getting up and going to the kitchen.

it felt good, natural even. it had become a little routine that you both felt comfortable in. he would call youd answer, yall would chat about anything-everything under the sun and inevitably your fall asleep on him but he would never hang up.

how you managed to become friends was purely some twisted sort of luck if you could even call it that. after your mom passed he was the one that got her number and when the messages started sending in blue instead of green you werent quick to notice, so when you had a particularly shitty day and texted her number

‘mama, i wish you were here. i need you now more than ever.’

and received a message reading

‘im sorry but i think you have the wrong number. it will be okay though’

you almost broke down. luckily he was nice enough and allowed you to vent and the rest was history. a friendship blossomed even though it was only cellular.

“if you dont prop me up so i can see.” he griped.

“omg youre so needy.” you sigh propping him-the phone- up.

he laughs, “whatever hmmm i think shrimp.”

“hmmm i think not.” you say grabbing the steak.

“bro what the hell, why you even ask then.” he says smacking his lips.

“cause i can.” you say and you just know he’s rolling his eyes.

“if you say so, but ima hit you back, this my momma calling me.”

“ok be safe.”

“i will, talk to you later.” and the phone clicks.

you hum as you begin to season the two sirloins, quickly reaching over to turn on the stove.

its crazy how life works. your just a history teacher at a small high school in your area and one of your best friends is the biggest player in your state.

“who would have thought”you mumble to yourself thinking ahout when you finally realized who he was.

one of your students had worn a jersey with his last name on it and you found it a bit peculiar, so you texted him.

‘u have a cousin or something in the nfl? one of these my kids got on a jersey w yo last name’

‘😂is u being fr rn’

‘wym?’

‘omg you is lmaooooooo 😭😩 go ask him who jersey he got on’

‘wtf js tell me’

and he left you on read

you put your phone down and huffed.

“hey garret, who’s jersey do you have on?”

“ceedee lamb, excuse my language miss but he cold as hell.” and as soon as the name came out of his mouth your stomach dropped.

“o-oh ok. it-its nice.” you barely stammer out before picking up your phone.

‘YOU PLAY FUCKIN FOOTBALL WTF’

‘😭😭😭😭😂’

‘omfggg ts crazyyyy& u aint tell nb shi’

needless to say he got an earful that night when you two did finally get on the phone.

you flip the steaks over on the cast iron skillet allowing it to sear then place the potatoes on a baking sheet and toss them in the oven.

you grab your phone and go to see where cee is, but you notice his location is off.

‘where tf u at & why that damn lo off?’

he immediately reads it but you see no text bubble.

‘wowwww read ight bet.’

then you throw down your phone and almost instantly its a light knock on your door.

confusion washes over you as you furrow your brows together.

“who is it ?” you call getting on your tip toes to see out of the peephole but its just dark.

you sigh and unlock the door opening it only enough to peek out and low and behold its cedarian with a big goofy smile on his face and a bouquet of flowers in his hand.

this is ch1 of a fic im gonna be posting on wattpad lmk what yall think. i love ceedee he is so cute omf i just have all the feels.

[leaawrites]

Kiss the girl

Liam Gallagher x fem!reader

Summary:

Warnings: bit of angst, Liam calling Noel a cunt, bad flirting, making out,

Wordcount: 1.6k

Masterlist, Part 1, Part 3

Standing behind the little curtain that separated the backstage area and the bar, Liam felt that his palms were sweatier than ever before. His eyes always finding their way back to the same person, leaning with their back against the bar. Waiting like everyone else. She stood next to him, lips moving in conversation and quirking up in a smile every once in a while.

“Who’s that beside your bird, Gallagher?” Guigsy asked, peeking out beside him, noticing the distant look in his eyes.

“Noel, me brother. Remember him?” Liam had told them endless stories about his childhood with Noel, mostly to complain whenever he called and his mother was all over him once more.

“Think you’ve mentioned him, yeah.” The sarcasm evident in his tone. “Let’s get it on.”

It wasn’t like Noel came in there that night without any expectations. He did, only that they were pretty low. Liam had asked him to stop by to see them play, to see him sing and eventually to make him join the band. It wasn’t his first thought, it wasn’t even in his head until Bonehead proposed the idea, sensing that most of their songs were either shit or covers.

He knew how Noel could get, how he most definitely wanted to make it his band if he was in it. At the beginning they agreed that it was their band, everyone had a say in it. Noel would most likely change that.

The lights seemed brighter than ever before as he stepped out of the shadows. The cheers were drowned by his nerves. He had never felt like this before. His usual over confidence was still behind the curtain, laughing at him as it saw the little hints of fear shimmering in his eyes.

Looking over the crowd once more, counting until his start, he found his way back towards the same direction. Only now, his eyes were drawn to the girl next to Noel. The one who was looking up at him with a faint encouraging smile dancing on her lips while her head bobbed to the beat of the drums. The one who he couldn’t get out of his head since the day at the bar. The one who had him tossing and turning late at night when he couldn’t sleep and just saw her face instead of darkness.

A small smile found it’s way on his face before he closed his eyes, leaned forward a bit more and started singing.

“You seemed nervous up there,” she commented, her mind travelling back towards him standing on the little stage. His lips so close to the mic that it felt like she could feel his breath through the speakers and down her spine. Sending a shock of lightning through her system and making her shiver in the middle of sweating bodies.

They were stood outside, watching the moon instead of walking towards her house like they should be.

After his performance, Liam was greeted by his friends first, claps on his back and ‘fucking hell, you murdered it up there’ falling from their mouths like normal ‘good job’s would sound to anyone else. He appreciated the praise, though he’d heard it from them too often to actually still believe he was as good as they said. They had no idea about music anyway.

Fighting his way through the little crowd surrounding him, he made it towards her. ‘You wanna go home?’ falling from his lips, making her nod. He acknowledged Noel with a small nod of his head before walking after her, his hand sitting on the small of her back to get her safely through the crowd. She’d told him, that she couldn’t stay long after and he promised to walk her home as soon as he was done with the show.

So now they stood in the middle of the street, both looking up at the moon.

“Me brother’s back, said he was coming to see me sing, though I doubted he would actually stop by,” he said, his voice quieter than ever before. He didn’t need to be so loud now that he was stood so close to her with only silence and a few mild sounds surrounding them.

“Noel, right?” His eyes snapped towards her, surprised that she knew his name. “We had a little chat before your performance and he let it slip. He seems nice.”

“He’s a cunt,” Liam corrected her, looking back up at the bright bulb of light lingering over their heads like a spotlight.

“But you still care about his opinion.”

“I don’t.”

“Then why were you so nervous about playing in front of him?” Her eyebrows moved up as she knew that she wasn’t wrong, she never was. Looking at the small smirk on her lips as she realized she’d won the argument, Liam just wanted to lean down and kiss it away. Replacing it with the shy look she gave him when he cleaned the foam from her face and the blush on her cheeks, that appeared because of him.

Taking in a deep breath, he began rambling to keep the other thoughts away. “He’s always been better than me, alright? Always the favourite child, always the one everyone liked more. People like me but they don’t care about me how they do with Noel. I’m just some passing by for when you’re bored. He likes music for way longer than I do, wanted to be in a band and all that. Never got there though, always just a roadie never a part of the band. Now, the others said that we should take him in because he’s a good writer and he can play guitar, all that nonsense. He’ll just ruin it all if he joins.”

“Well, see me as someone who’s willing to stay with you then.”

It was a simple sentence, nothing meant beyond friendship. Still it made his heart jump a beat, a loud tone of silence replacing every other thought in his head. God, why did she have to be so perfect?

“Don’t you write as well?” He asked, remembering the little poems she used to write in their English class. Too afraid to ever read them out loud and too ashamed of her own thoughts to let them be read by anyone else.

“Only poems, not songs.”

“So, you’re a poet?” The smirk she knew all too well by now appeared on his face as he started teasing her again. His eyes crinkling as he held back a laugh.

“No. Just a girl with lots of feelings.” Exhaling deeply, she made it sound more dramatic than it was meant to be.

“That’s nice though, innit? Having things feel important enough to wanna make them last forever?” Liam always envied Noel for having such a talent with words,

“Quite a poet yourself, I see.”

“Nah, love. That’s all you.” Turning towards her, Liam pushed his hands in the pockets of his jacket. Smiling softer than she’d ever seen. “You make a poet.” It was nothing more above a whisper, but with how close he stood, she could even feel his breath fan down her cheeks.

Turning her head away from him, she cleared her throat. This wasn’t what he intended to keep on doing. However sweet it may seem, it was only an act, right?

“Anyway, who cares about guitarists anyway? I’ve seen this band one or two years back, ‘Seymour’ - I think they’re called ‘Blur’ now or summat. Doesn’t matter. Do you think they were all over their guitarist? Hell no. Every girl in that crowd only had eyes for their singer.”

“You as well?” He asked, stepping closer to get her attention back. Not satisfied with only her hearing, he wanted her all. Every little piece and space of her mind, he wanted for it to be occupied by him.

“No comment on that.” A blush crept up her neck, not quite reaching her face but it was enough to make him chuckle and feel a bit of jealousy prickle up in him at the same time.

“So, you like lead-singers, huh?”

“I liked him,” she said, looking at him challenging. Her eyes sparkling with mischievous.

“I like you.”

Before she could properly process his word, she felt his hands on her neck and his lips on hers. His hold making her turn her body towards him fully. The force of his grip making her stumble towards him, her hands resting on his chest to stable herself.

Moving his lips against hers, he noticed his mistake as soon as their lips met. How was he supposed to stop now? With her soft, warm lips fitting so perfectly to his chapped, cold ones that made it feel like it was meant to be like that forever, how was he supposed to not kiss her again after that night?

“You’re a dickhead, Liam,” she mumbled against his lips, not wanting to part but the fresh air in her lungs felt like cold water running down her throat as she breathed in, panting.

“No need to compliment me already, love. I’ve only kissed you once yet.” Liam smiled, not loosening his hold on her face. Leaning their foreheads together and closing his eyes in contempt of the moment.

“So there’s gonna be more of that?” He could hear the smirk in her voice. Chuckling at the image of how they must look to someone walking by. Two idiots standing in the middle of the street.

If they’d die, at least they’d die together.

Moving her hands down his chest and under his shirt, she could feel his heartbeat drumming against her fingertips. Her usual warm skin feeling cold against his. Liam was filled with true warmth for the first time in his life and it was all due to her. He was doomed and he knew it.

“Way more.”

[myriadparacosm]

Black Beats Black - snippet 2 chapter 9: Blazing Star

because this part still makes me laugh

"How come you're so fine with it?"

"Wormy, shut it," James says with a scowl. "I'm starting to think you're actually plotting— are you?"

Peter throws him a flat look and glances at Sirius. "Why would I do that? I just find it weird that Sirius almost threw his brother in your arms."

"I can't just be a nice supportive brother?" Sirius argues but he doubts that Peter is actually trying to mess with them. "And I didn't throw them in each other's arms. I just saw good— opportunities."

"Well, you and Regulus don't really get along. Until now. And then Prongs is all— Prongs."

"What? What does that mean?" James asks when he sees Remus nodding wisely at Peter's words.

"And that's exactly why."

"Oi, insult me to my face at least."

"It's a compliment, Prongs," Sirius dismisses.

"I'm pretty sure we agreed that we never date mate's siblings. Don't you remember with Marlene's sister?"

"What's that?" Remus perks up at Sirius' gasp.

"Shut it!"

"She had this gigantic crush on Sirius."

"It's not my fault!"

"Meryl?"

James nods. "And Peter has always been sweet on her-"

He gasps. "That's not true!"

"Oh, you liar," Sirius hisses because it's his fault that it was even brought up.

"What happened?" Remus asks.

James grins viciously. Sirius kicks at the table's foot instead of his shin as he throws him a dark look. "That was the first time Sirius could sleep over, back in second year, and we had Marlene over with Meryl."

"She studies in— Belgium, right?"

"Yeah at the Naaszcademy. Meryl was pretty much always into Magizoology so she only did her first 4 years here, passed exams to enter the school and studies there for— another year, I reckon? She is doing a speciality or something."

Sirius busies himself with his butterbeer. Peter shoots him an accusing look, to which he replies with a scoff and foam spitting around.

"I vaguely remember her. She was in Ravenclaw, right?"

"She was. Wormy and I knew since we were children and he had this huge-"

"I didn't!"

"You let her do everything on you."

"Woah."

"We were playing healers!"

"And potioners. And tailors. And magizoologist."

Peter glares at James with flaming cheeks before turning on Sirius. "Anyhow, she met Sirius once when we slept over at James and Sirius broke his heart."

"I didn't!"

"You did!"

James shakes his head at them and leans across the table to reach Remus. "See, Wormy liked Meryl who was seduced-"

"I didn't seduce anyone!" Sirius exclaims.

"So it was an awkward weekend."

Remus chuckles, amused eyes pausing on Sirius as if it's his fault. "I can imagine."

"I didn't do anything," he insists with a scowl. "I was just having fun with my mates and she was there!" His head snaps toward Peter muttering in his drink. "How is it my fault?! I was only twelve! And you could have told her something."

Peter blushes and his jaw tightens in indignation. "Not with you around."

"Merlin, you're a prat."

"You're a slag!"

"Obviously nothing happened," James resumed. "Marlene got pissed that Meryl pestered her about Sirius and she made this huge scene after the break that no one is dating anyone's siblings because that would be disgusting. We all agreed."

Peter scoffs. "And yet you're dating Sirius' brother, hence breaking the deal."

Remus bursts out laughing at that and Sirius straightens in his seat to look at James.

"That's true!"

"No! We promised about sisters, si-sters," James insists. "And back then you weren't even talking to Regulus."

"Oh, this is such a low blow! You know it counts and we did say siblings!" He argues, despite the half-truth. At that time, Regulus had been barely on his mind. How foolish.

"Brotherfucker," Peter mutters.

Sirius slaps his hand on the table. "I should have tattoed-" Remus quickly hushes him- "that on your lying arse!"

"Regulus wasn't part of the deal!"

"He is my brother!"

James pauses. "Well, it was about sisters."

"It was about siblings!"

[luxerians]

The Last Mask (05)

Hwang In-ho/Oh Young-il/Player 001 x Reader

Chapter 05 - Seven Legs

Story Masterlist

NEXT : Chapter 06

PREV : Chapter 04

The evening came quickly, marked by the familiar robotic female voice announcing, “Bedtime will begin in ten minutes.”

The mechanical tone echoed through the dormitory, prompting players to stir and shuffle about. Many began moving toward their beds, some climbing up to the top bunks, others sticking close to the lower levels. Conversations buzzed quietly in this massive space.

You watched the activity for a moment before glancing at Gi-hun. “Can we just move to any bed we want?”

Gi-hun nodded. “Yeah, you can. Looks like most people are sticking to their X and O zones, though.”

Jung-bae, sitting nearby, perked up. “Hey, can I take the bed beside you?”

“Yeah, sure,” Gi-hun replied.

Jung-bae didn’t waste a second, tossing his unfinished water bottle onto the bed and sprawling out as if it had been his all along. You watched the exchange, a small smile tugging at your lips.

Looking around, you found yourself contemplating the same question. Would it be okay to ask for a bed near them? The thought lingered as you considered your relationship with them. You viewed them as friends already, but how about them? Do they see you as some random female acquaintance?

And then there was the question of propriety. Sharing a close space with men in a setting like this felt… complicated. Would they think it was strange? Too forward? Especially since you were a woman?

As you debated, your gaze caught player 001 watching quietly from his spot in the corner where you had all hung out earlier. He remained seated, his expression calm and unreadable.

You turned back to Gi-hun. The thought looped back to whether or not to ask. Would he welcome you, or would it feel intrusive? Your hesitation hung heavy, the clock ticking closer to bedtime as players began settling in.

“Sir…” you began, your voice hesitant. But when Gi-hun turned to look at you with a serious mien, you faltered. Instead, you faked a chuckle and shook your head. “It’s nothing.”

Without waiting for a reply, you turned and left the corner, heading back toward your bed. As you walked, the sound of footsteps following you caught your attention. Glancing back, you saw player 001 approaching. You slowed your pace until the two of you were walking side by side.

“You should just ask them,” he said calmly. “They will be glad to have you near.”

You glanced away, sheepishly rubbing the back of your neck. “Oh, was I that obvious?”

Player 001 smiled, a knowing look in his eyes. “Too obvious. But 456 didn’t seem to notice. I’m sure he would be okay with you taking the bed on the other side of him.”

The two of you came to a stop amidst the quiet bustle of players settling in.

“But wouldn’t they be surprised?” you asked, your voice lower. “A lady suddenly asking to sleep near them?”

“What kind of gentlemen would they be if they refuse?” player 001 countered gently. “Go. Just ask them.”

You hesitated, considering his words. His friendly tone made you feel a little braver, but the awkwardness still lingered. Before you could respond, player 001 added with a chuckle, “Besides, it’s better to stick with people you trust.”

Nodding slowly, you glanced back toward Gi-hun and Jung-bae, who were now chatting quietly by their beds. Dae-ho had joined them, gesturing animatedly about something you couldn’t quite hear.

“Alright,” you said finally. “I’ll ask.”

Taking a deep breath, you turned and walked back toward the group. You stopped a few steps away, hesitating briefly before speaking. “Do you mind if I take the bed near you guys?”

Gi-hun looked up, his expression softening. “I don’t mind. Take whichever one you want.”

Jung-bae clapped his hands together. “The more, the merrier! Right, Dae-ho?”

Dae-ho nodded eagerly. “Yes, sir! I think these beds around are unoccupied.”

Their casual acceptance made you smile, the earlier tension melting away. With a quiet thank you, you set your water bottle on the bed beside Gi-hun, feeling a sense of relief as the group welcomed you without hesitation.

As you sat down, you glanced around the dormitory, scanning the rows of bunks. Your eyes sought out player 001, wondering why he hadn’t claimed a bed near you and the others. You saw him as one of you at that point.

Finally, you spotted him quietly settling on a bed in the O zone. The thought crossed your mind that it might have been because of the voting zones – or perhaps his earlier disagreements with Gi-hun.

Just then, player 001 glanced up and caught your eye. His calm gaze met yours, and for a moment, you felt a flicker of awkwardness. Nevertheless, you smiled, albeit nervously. He responded with a faint smile of his own before lying down on his bed, his demeanor as composed as ever.

You turned back to your own space, the sound of murmured conversations and the rustling of blankets filling the air as players settled in for the night. Jung-bae was already sprawled out while Dae-ho was untying his hair. Gi-hun sat on his bed, his posture relaxed but his eyes occasionally scanning the room.

“Everyone seems restless,” you remarked quietly to Jung-bae.

“Can you blame them?” he replied, his voice low. “After today, who knows what’s coming tomorrow?”

Dae-ho leaned over, his voice carrying a bit more energy. “Whatever it is, we’ll handle it. We’ve got a solid group here, right?”

Jung-bae chuckled. “Of course. There are two ex-Marines here.”

The dormitory lights dimmed, the robotic voice announcing, “Lights out in five minutes.”

The chatter began to die down, replaced by the sound of shuffling feet as players adjusted their bedding.

You glanced one more time toward player 001. Though his eyes were closed, he didn’t seem fully at ease, his posture still somewhat guarded even in rest. You turned back to your group, feeling a small sense of comfort in their presence as you prepared for another uncertain day.

You woke up to the sound of the same classical music from yesterday. The familiar melody filled the dormitory, stirring players from their uneasy sleep. Sitting up, you stretched, your muscles aching slightly from the stiff mattress.

Glancing to your side, you saw Jung-bae slowly waking up. As he rubbed his eyes, he formed a triangle with his hands, muttering something under his breath. You realized he was reminding himself to choose the triangle shape if the next game turned out to be Dalgona. The sight made you smile faintly before you laid back on your bed, trying to savor a few more moments of rest. You knew what awaited you next would decide whether you lived to see another day.

Minutes later, a sharp beeping sound cut through the air, followed by the metallic groan of the main double doors sliding open. Pink-clad guards filed in with their usual precision as the robotic female voice announced, “Attention, please. The second game will begin momentarily. Please follow the instructions from our staff.”

Players began to stir in earnest, grabbing their shoes and moving to line up. You joined the queue alongside Jung-bae, Dae-ho, and Gi-hun. Player 001 joined your group silently, taking his place behind you. The mood was heavy as everyone shuffled into place, the sound of nervous whispers filling the room.

Under the guards’ guidance, you all filed out of the dormitory and into the colorful hall of staircases. The vibrant hues and twisting paths were as disorienting as they had been the first time, but now the weight of what lay ahead made the setting feel more ominous.

Gi-hun led your small group. Jung-bae followed closely behind him, muttering “triangle” over and over under his breath like a mantra. You walked behind them, followed by Player 001. Dae-ho brought up the rear, his usual energy muted as he scanned the hall nervously.

The guards directed everyone upward, the ascent feeling longer and more deliberate than before.

You soon arrived at a massive room. The design mimicked the outside of a schoolyard, with a clear field at the center. Dominating the space were two enormous rainbow-colored circles, each made up of six vibrant bands.

You scanned the area, trying to make sense of the setup. Was this the Dalgona game? It didn’t match what you had imagined, but the uncertainty gnawed at you.

“Welcome to your second game,” announced the familiar female robotic voice. “This game will be played in teams. Please divide into teams of six within the next ten minutes.”

Jung-bae immediately turned to Gi-hun. “Is Dalgona a team game?”

Before Gi-hun could answer, player 100 and his entourage approached, their presence heavy and oppressing. He asked bluntly, “Aren’t we playing the Dalgona game?”

Gi-hun’s tone was subdued. “No, it doesn’t look like it.”

You frowned, noticing the disappointment etched on his face. He had wanted to help, but it was becoming clear that the games weren’t the same as the ones he had experienced before.

“Then what’s the game?” player 100 pressed.

Gi-hun shook his head as he admitted, “I’m not sure.”

Player 100’s expression darkened, frustration bubbling over. He snapped, “What? You said you’d done this before! That triangle was supposed to be the easiest. Was that all bullshit?”

Gi-hun lowered his head. “I’m sorry.”

“Sorry won’t cut it!” player 100 barked, his voice rising. “You acted like you knew everything.”

Unable to hold back, you spoke up, drawing the attention of everyone nearby. “Uncle, didn’t I tell you the games wouldn’t be the same? You’re the one who refused to listen.”

Player 100 narrowed his eyes at you, his tone mocking. “Now you think you're a smart one, huh? Why don’t you tell us what game this is, since you seem to know everything? Or maybe you should shut up and stop pretending like you’re smarter than everyone else here!”

Player 001 suddenly stepped forward, positioning himself between you and the rude player 100. His eyes locked onto player 100 with a warning glint, his tone dark and firm. “That’s enough.”

You raised your eyebrows in surprise, feeling an unexpected warmth rise to your cheeks. You hadn’t anticipated such a direct defense, and the way player 001 stepped in with unwavering confidence left you momentarily stunned. You couldn’t deny it. His action moved you, stirring a mix of gratitude and quiet admiration that you couldn’t quite hide.

Player 100 flinched, taking an instinctive step back. His fear was evident; he knew what player 001 was capable of. Everyone did.

The tense moment was interrupted by the robotic voice announcing, “Please divide into teams now.”

All eyes turned to the timer displayed on the wall above. Ten minutes remained.

“Yeah, just drop it,” player 226 said with a smirk, breaking the silence. “Don’t waste your time on that nutjob and this know-it-all woman. We shouldn’t have fallen for that supposed ‘winner.’”

Player 100 shifted his wary gaze between player 001, you, and Gi-hun. His lips tightened, but he didn’t speak. Player 226 clapped once, drawing his attention. “Come on, let’s form a team first.”

With a subtle nod, player 100 walked past your group. As he passed, he muttered just loud enough for you to hear, “Previous winner? Damn lunatic.”

Player 226 followed close behind, sneering as he went. “Dalgona? Triangle? Screw you.”

You glared after them until they disappeared into the crowd of players. The tension lingered as Gi-hun, his head still hung low, avoided looking at any of you.

“I’m sorry,” he said quietly.

“I still trust you, so don’t worry about it,” player 001 replied, his voice calm. “I’d like to play the game with you, if that’s okay?”

Gi-hun looked up, his expression a mix of surprise and disbelief. He seemed genuinely stunned that none of you had criticized him. More than that, he was visibly moved by the unwavering trust and support from player 001.

“That’s right. Let’s be real men and give it a shot,” Jung-bae said with confidence. He paused, glancing at you, and quickly added, “And also be a brave lady. It’s a children’s game, right? We used to play games all the time.”

You turned to Gi-hun with a reassuring smile. “I hope you don���t mind me staying with you. Dalgona or not, I did plan to follow you.”

Gi-hun stared at you this time, his expression a mix of astonishment and something softer – gratefulness. It was clear he hadn’t expected your unwavering trust, and for a moment, he seemed at a loss for words.

Dae-ho nodded enthusiastically. “That’s right, sirs. I’ll join you. I feel like I can do anything with you all.”

Jung-bae clapped him on the back, grinning. “That’s the Marine spirit. It’d be embarrassing for brave Marines to be carving Dalgona anyway. If we’re playing a game, it should be worth risking our lives for. Like Buck Buck or the Squid Game, right?”

“Yes, sir!” Dae-ho replied with fervor. “I will certainly risk my life to win, sir.”

Player 001, who had been quietly observing, spoke up. “We only need one more person then.”

“Leave it to me, sir. I’ll go find someone,” Dae-ho volunteered immediately.

“Alright then. Get someone who’d risk their life to win,” Jung-bae instructed.

Dae-ho turned to face him fully, standing straighter. “Yes, sir! Victory at all costs!”

The two of them saluted each other. You couldn’t help but smile at their antics. After Jung-bae’s dismissive nod, Dae-ho jogged away with purpose, ready to find the final member of your team.

You turned to player 001, seizing the moment to express your gratitude. Looking up at him, your eyes softened, glinting with admiration, and a small, sincere smile spread across your face. You said, “By the way, thank you for the back-up.”

Player 001 shifted his attention to you, his expression warm as he returned the smile. “It’s no problem. If he or his friends say anything rude or try to push you around, just tell me. I’ll protect you.”

You stared at him, momentarily speechless. His words left you feeling both flattered and a little bewildered. Why was he so attentive? You’d only met him yesterday, yet he already made you feel cared for in a way that stirred something unfamiliar. Your heart fluttered slightly, completely unprepared for the quiet confidence in his tone and the way he verbally showed he would protect you.

Standing this close, you couldn’t help but notice just how striking he was. His features, though marked by age, carried a timeless attractiveness that was hard to ignore. It’s like he’d only improved with time. He looked fit, confident, and effortlessly composed. How had you not noticed this before?

You pursed your lips and nodded. “Okay.”

You then looked away, trying to will your heart to calm down. Don’t go and fall for married man, you whore. He might have a wife waiting for him already, stupid.

With only two minutes left on the timer, Dae-ho returned to your group with a man in tow, player 096. Dae-ho gestured confidently toward him. “He’ll definitely risk his life to win.”

“Victory at all costs!” player 096 suddenly shouted, snapping into a sharp salute.

Dae-ho grinned proudly as Jung-bae saluted back. “Oh, you were in the Marines too?”

“Class 946, sir!” player 096 replied, his voice booming.

“Wah, with three ex-Marines, we’ll be invincible,” he turned to you, Gi-hun, and player 001 with a wide grin. “What do you think? I like him.”

Before any of you could respond, a soft voice interrupted. “Excuse me.”

Everyone turned to see a petite girl approaching your circle. Player 222 looked to be in her early twenties, her timid demeanor making her seem even younger. She glanced around the group before settling her gaze on you.

“Please let me join your team,” she said.

You frowned, feeling a pang of pity for her. She seemed so out of place, fragile in an environment like this. She didn’t deserve to be here, fighting for her life. Not only that, she also looked like a delicate rabbit.

She’s so cute like a rabbit, you thought.

“Sorry,” Jung-bae said, his tone apologetic but firm. “We’ve already got six people.”

“Please help me,” player 222 pleaded. She placed a hand on her stomach, drawing attention to the slight curve beneath her jacket. “I’m pregnant.”

Shock rippled through you as your eyes instinctively dropped to her belly. The rabbit is pregnant?!

The rounded shape was subtle but unmistakable. The weight of her words hit hard, stirring an even deeper sense of pity. But then your thoughts turned to player 096, who had just been brought in by Dae-ho. What would he feel, being dragged over here only to be rejected?

Determined, you spoke up. “You know what? Take her and Mr. 096. I’ll go find another team.”

Your gaze wandered toward player 120, who was still moving around, clearly searching for teammates. You were about to step away when you felt hands on both of your shoulders. One belonged to Jung-bae, the other to player 001.

“No, no, no,” Jung-bae, player 001, and Gi-hun said in unison, their voices overlapping in a hurried, jumbled mess.

“Time for team selection is up. The game you will be playing is Seven-Legged Hexathlon.”

The announcement reverberated through the room as all the players sat in lines according to their teams. Your team had finally settled after some deliberation. Starting from the right, Gi-hun sat at the end, followed by Jung-bae, then player 001, then you, player 222, and finally Dae-ho. The decision to include player 222 was easy due to her condition, and you as a whole group had apologized profusely to player 096. Thankfully, he had taken it graciously, insisting it was the right thing to do – prioritizing the ladies, especially one who was pregnant. His response prompted Jung-bae and Dae-ho to enthusiastically dive into their Marine antics, saluting and shouting phrases of camaraderie with him.

The robotic voice continued, “You will start with your legs tied together. Each member will take turns playing a mini-game at every ten-meter mark. If your team wins, you may proceed to the next stage. Here are the mini-games:

“Number one, Ddakji.

“Number two, Flying Stone.

“Number three, Gonggi.

“Number four, Tuho.

“Number five, Spinning Top.

“Number six, Jegi.

“Your goal is to win all the mini-games and cross the finish line within six minutes. Please decide the players for each mini-game.”

You pondered. The variety of mini-games seemed deceptively simple, yet the added pressure of the time limit and the tied legs turned it into something far more daunting.

“It’s good that we got two women,” Jung-bae said, turning to player 222. “You can play Gonggi, right?”

Player 222 shook her head silently, her expression filled with disappointment. She looked genuinely upset, as if she hated letting the group down.

Jung-bae’s hopeful gaze shifted to you. “Oh, maybe you can.”

“I don’t know how,” you admitted, feeling a bit sheepish.

Jung-bae sighed and turned to Gi-hun, his tone almost exasperated. “Don’t girls play Gonggi anymore?”

“I’ve never played it,” player 222 confessed apologetically, her voice barely above a whisper.

Jung-bae nodded in acceptance, but before he could suggest something else, Dae-ho leaned forward, his voice breaking the pause. “Actually, I can play Gonggi.”

Jung-bae blinked at him, surprised. “You? An ex-Marine?”

Dae-ho nodded. “I grew up with four older sisters. I used to play it with them from time to time.”

Jung-bae’s face lit up, and he clapped Dae-ho proudly on the back. “That’s right. There’s nothing a Marine can’t do.”

Gi-hun leaned toward the center of the group, bringing the conversation back on track. “Everyone else, what game are you confident playing?”

“Ddakji for me,” player 222 said, drawing everyone’s attention. “At the subway station, I won more times than the guy.”

“Okay, then. Miss 222, you play Ddakji,” Jung-bae said with a decisive nod. “I’ll play Flying Stone. I was a pitcher for my baseball team. I’m good at throwing.”

Dae-ho began warming his fingers, breathing on them and flexing them, as Gi-hun addressed the group. “That leaves Tuho, Jegi, and Spinning Top.”

“I can do Tuho,” you offered, drawing everyone’s attention. You glanced around the group as you informed, “I often played it at school.”

The others nodded, accepting your choice without question. Gi-hun then turned to player 001. “Jegi and Spinning Top. Which one are you good at?”

Player 001 gave a small smile. “Well, I’ll play whatever you pick for me, Gi-hun.”

Gi-hun’s expression faltered, his brows knitting together as a wary glint appeared in his eyes. “You know my name?”

Player 001’s eyes widened slightly, his mouth parting as if he’d just realized a mistake. He gestured casually toward Jung-bae. “Oh, your friend was calling you by your name, so I thought I’d try it.”

Gi-hun stared at him, saying nothing. Player 001 tilted his head slightly, his tone gentle as he asked, “Does it bother you?”

Blinking a few times, Gi-hun finally shook his head. “No, it’s fine.”

“So, Gi-hun,” player 001 continued smoothly, “which one are you good at?”

“I guess I’m better at Jegi,” Gi-hun replied after a moment.

“Then I’ll take Spinning Top,” player 001 said with a nod.

“Alright,” Gi-hun confirmed.

“Alright, guys, bring your hands together here,” Jung-bae instructed, extending his hand to the center of the group.

Gi-hun and Dae-ho, sitting at the far ends of the line, shuffled closer as everyone placed their hands atop one another. Jung-bae took charge again. “Okay, one, two, three, we say ‘Victory at all costs.’ Got it? One, two, three—”

“Victory at all costs!”

The game began, and two teams, Team 1 and Team 2, stepped onto their respective rainbow circles. All eyes were on them as they moved with their legs tied together, each team struggling to maintain balance and coordination.

The first event in the hexathlon was Ddakji. The rules were straightforward, and Team 1 managed to pass on their first try, earning cheers from their teammates. Team 2 followed closely, but the pressure was already building as both teams advanced to the next stage.

The second event was Flying Stone. Precision was crucial, and the thrower had to ensure they didn’t step over the line while aiming perfectly. You watched with growing concern as Team 1 failed their first attempt. They had to retrieve their stone themselves, an awkward and time-consuming task given their tied legs.

Leaning slightly toward Jung-bae, player 001 commented, “A miss in Flying Stone will eat up a lot of time.”

Jung-bae gulped nervously as he stared at player 001, who turned back to watch the teams without a hint of concern, leaving Jung-bae momentarily speechless.

After a few attempts, Team 2 managed to pass Flying Stone and moved on to the third event: Gonggi. Meanwhile, Team 1 remained stuck, struggling with the precision needed for Flying Stone.

As Team 2 began their Gonggi attempts, you noticed Dae-ho kneeling on the sandy floor near your group. He had picked up a few stones and was practicing intently.

Team 2 finally passed Flying Stone on their third attempt, moving on to the fourth event: Tuho. You stood up from the floor, hoping to get a better view of their attempt.

A circle-masked guard handed their player five arrows as the robotic female voice announced, “To pass, at least three arrows must be thrown into the vase. Do not step over the line.”

The guard then placed a vase with four holders on its sides. A white line marked the throwing position, approximately 1.5 meters away from the vase.

You watched intently as Team 2’s player began the challenge. Each throw missed, the arrows clattering to the floor instead of landing in the vase. Anxiety prickled at you as their attempts failed one by one.

Team 1 was still struggling with Flying Stone, their frustration evident. Meanwhile, Team 2, tied together at the legs, hobbled forward to retrieve their arrows for another attempt. As they moved, you noticed player 001 standing up beside you.

You expected him to say something nerve-wracking, like his earlier comment to Jung-bae about time loss, but instead, his words surprised you. “Don’t be nervous. I’m sure you’ll do fine.”

Turning to face him, you met his reassuring gaze. His smile was calm and confident as he added, “You said you did it often. I’m certain you got skills.”

Your gaze dropped, and you hesitated before replying, your voice quiet. “That was years ago. Now…”

You paused, the memory slicing through your thoughts like a cold blade – the nightmarish image of your battered parents, their lifeless eyes, and the menacing presence of the loan sharks hovering like shadows in the corner of your mind.

You shook your head and continued, “My arms sometimes tremble uncontrollably. What if it messes up my aim?”

Player 001 didn’t hesitate. “Then I’ll hold your hands.”

You stared at him, astonished by his immediate response. His words sent a warm flutter through your chest, catching you completely off guard. Why does he say things like that? Was it genuine kindness, or was there something more?

Your mind raced with questions. Does he really have a wife waiting for him? Is he just this impossibly considerate to everyone, or is it different with you?

You nodded slowly. “It’s okay. I think I’ll be okay.”

Without waiting for his response, you turned sharply to focus on the playing teams. Team 2 had managed to throw only two arrows into the vase, with the remaining arrows tumbling onto the floor. Hobbling awkwardly, they moved forward to retrieve the arrows and prepared to try again.

Team 1, meanwhile, was still stuck at the Flying Stone event. Their repeated failures left them visibly shaken. Two players were openly crying, while the player tasked with the throws stood frozen, his face pale with terror. You noticed the growing wet stain on his pants, a clear sign of his unraveling nerves.

A sudden cheer erupted from Team 2, drawing your attention. They had just landed three arrows in the vase. The circle-masked guard gestured by forming a circle with his arms, and the robotic announcer said, “Pass.”

The team screamed in triumph as the guard quickly removed the vase, clearing the way for them to advance. They hobbled forward, legs still tied, toward the next event: Spinning Top.

Their first attempt at spinning the top ended in failure. The top wobbled and fell before completing a single rotation. In their rush to retrieve it, they lost balance and tumbled onto the ground, eliciting a few gasps from the onlookers.

Beside you, Jung-bae leaned toward player 001. “With Spinning Top, it’ll take even longer if you mess up.”

You glanced at player 001, curious about his reaction. His eyes narrowed sharply as he turned to Jung-bae, fixing him with a pointed stare. Jung-bae quickly averted his gaze, feigning innocence. Player 001’s glare lingered for a few more seconds.

On their second attempt, Team 2 successfully passed the Spinning Top event and moved on. At the same time, Team 1 finally managed to complete the Flying Stone event, their relief palpable. Both teams advanced toward their next challenges, but before either could proceed, triangle-masked guards appeared, blocking their path.

The pleading and begging grew louder as the timer reached zero. You tensed, every muscle in your body bracing for the inevitable.

“Your time is up,” the robotic female voice declared.

The guards wasted no time. They raised their guns, and the air erupted with the deafening sound of gunfire. The failed teams fell instantly, their cries silenced. The noise was overwhelming, cracking through the room like thunder. Around you, players screamed, gasped, and sobbed. Some collapsed to the ground, shaking uncontrollably. Even you flinched with every shot, feeling the vibrations reverberate through your body and the floor beneath you.

When the gunfire stopped, an eerie silence fell over the room. Almost every player was crouched low, trembling and cowering in fear. The reality of the game hit everyone again with brutal clarity: this wasn’t just a simple hexathlon. Elimination meant death. A dark, suffocating weight settled over the room, pressing down on your chest. You couldn’t help but think, I should’ve gone home.

Sitting on the floor, your head hung low. Tears threatened to spill, but they wouldn’t come. Instead, your body betrayed you in another way, shaking uncontrollably as if trying to release the overwhelming terror.

The robotic female voice announced the numbers of the eliminated players, but the words blurred into the background. Suddenly, a player shot up from the floor, his voice slicing through the tense quiet. “We should have left! We’re all going to die now! We’re all going to die because of those who voted to continue!”

His words caused murmurs and hushed sobs to ripple through the remaining players, but you tuned it all out. You wrapped your arms around your chest, trying desperately to steady your trembling. Unbeknownst to you, player 001, who was crouching behind you, fixed his gaze on you. He said nothing, simply watching as you fought to regain control.

NEXT : Chapter 06

PREV : Chapter 04

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