#i should draw him in some baggy pants tho

[rapidhighway]

lalalalaaaa i know people give him normal gloves and stuff when they do human designs him but god i need these gloves they are everything to me

[bonestrouslingbones]

btw one of the things i want to do when i really rap up atbb for real is spontaneously get the energy at will to do actual updated fullbodies of the main 4 since now i actually have the ability to draw them the way they look in my head & have the skills to put some more variety in their shapes. basically i wanna

[imsoquarky]

Making design notes is one of my favorite things ever. I don't know why but making a list of them brings me so much joy.

I made one for MK awhile back and I'm getting the itch to do some for my own original characters. Sure my ocs do have set designs, but writing them down feels good.

Anyways. If you've never written a list of design notes, highly recommend. They don't have to be in-depth but here's some I wrote for a post-s4 MK design I haven't made yet

(Below the cut just to make sure I don't flood y'all's page or whatever)

Bodily Changes:

- Spread vitiligo to reflect new monkey markings (Dot on each upper cheek, patch covering the bottom lip to chin)

- Mullet hair

- Sideburns now reach lower and there is now sparse facial hair on his chin alongside the facial hair that was already on the edges of his jaw

-Fur covering his arms and back

- Striped gradient monkey tail

- Forehead scar running from hairline to a little below his eyebrows

- Fangsssss (Not as prominent as SWK or Macaque, more like Pigsy or Sandy's)

Wardrobe Changes:

- Sleeveless blue hoodie with one big white stripe and one small one

- Yellow Monkey King themed leather jacket (usually sensory hell, but he's got furry arms now)

- Still has the baggy, red cargo pants, but add on the overall straps that aren't being used like they should. Just decoration

- Cargo pants also have a tail hole now

- Headband is stitched up down the center, got damaged in the fight with Azure.

- Now wears sandals and goes barefoot during training

Other changes:

- His ears can twitch now, tho they still appear human. Hearing is also more sensitive, but not anything like Wukong and obviously nowhere near Macaque's

- Nose is also more sensitive, again, not quite like Wukong or Mac

- Is actually a bit faster than Wukong now, though SWK still far surpasses him in sheer strength and stamina

- Deals with migraines and meltdowns more often due to the higher senses and after effects of fucking HEADBUTTING A SWORD

- Still has human feet, but they're slightly bigger and he's more in control of their movement and can pretty reliably pick stuff up. This makes close-toed shoes very uncomfortable now

A few extra MK hcs that aren't listed here and didn't really change:

Transgender FtM (He/Him)

AuDHD

Pansexual

(All subject to changes or additions as I see fit)

Tbh, if enough people find this interesting I'll do them for all the characters. Even ones I may never draw, like Sandy (I LOVE him, but he's such an intimidating character to draw, muscles are strange and I still struggle with drawing my Red Son design.)

I'll also do non LMK characters, from basically any of my fandoms. These are so fun to me. It's my happiest form of feeding my hyperfixations when Im dealing with art block or just a lack of time.

[heavisdelulu]

Okay so I wanted to make a Wattpad story miles x oc (I want it to be reader so bad but I’ll just have to make a new one specifically for reader or y/n) and I wanted to share some stuff that I came up with about oc…

.

.

.

Miles x oc~

Oc is definitely miles best friend. I’m talking friends since 2nd grade best friend. I’m such a simp for friends to lovers tropes. It just warms my spirit.

Oc is black and Haitian (oc is me headass). Just want to sprinkle in a bit of my culture ya feel me?

Oc is stupid smart (oc is not me 💀). Like Tony stark smart. I basically envisioned her to be the girl in the chair type, the one who makes all his gadgets and help him with his hero duties by hacking in stuff.

Oc is gonna be a badass. I mean like come on, I’m not settling for less and neither is y’all.

Oc has BIG, thick, 4b-4c hair! (No more combs for you bookie)

Oc is quiet but bold. Like she speaks when spoken to but don’t let it fool you. She’ll usually say what everyone is thinking, no matter how rude or crude it may be. Believe me, this gets her in trouble, but it’s never on purpose. She’s never been one to hold her tongue. She tends to mind her business but on the off chance she’s nosey, it has to be something important.

Oc was raised by her pops (dad) and mama (grandma). You’ll learn more later if you choose to continue reading. No hard feelings 😅

Oc has a very chill personality. Like you can have roast sessions with her, movie/ show marathons, she can help you with your homework or French lessons even tho she speaks broken creole, need her to hack the test scores so you can get good grades- she can do it but she not cause her friend’s dad is a cop. Need girl advice? She’ll tell you to ask someone else but at least she’s honest 😂. If you do something dumb, trust she’s gonna drag it out for a while.

Like- “hey remember the time you fell in front of your crush cause your dusty ass 1’s wasn’t tied. Crazy” “bruh I only said you were short, why you gotta violate me?”

Oc is blunt but awkward. She sometimes misses social cues. Buss out a joke at the wrong time type.

Oc plays volleyball. Idk thought she should play a sport to seem kid like plus I like haikyuu so yeah…

Oc’s style falls into the alternative side. Like street wear, slight emo, grudge aesthetic. But she knows she has a nice body and likes to wear clothes that compliment her shape. So if she wear baggy pants then she’s pairing it with a cropped top or if she wears a big tee she’d pair it with form fitting pants or biker shorts. Her shoe style varies from platform boots, crocs, and a few Jordan’s (curtsy if mikes bugging her to get em). Pretty good style overall.

I’ll try and draw her, I ain’t the best but I can make a lil sumthin😏, plus I’m a visual person! If you’re interested more in this whole creation leave a like or lil note so I can keep going(gonna do it regardless 🤧). Also if you have any questions please PLEASE! Ask em. I will answer. I swear, I don’t have anything to do. 🥺 I’ll make some more head-canons up until the I actually release the story.

Thank you for your time and have a bless day🫶🏾💋

[eggs-can-draw]

BOOM POW MOTHER FUCKERS

Jokah

Leader of the thieves! Embodies their entire “Thing”

Black main with red and white accents

No notes! He’s perfect. He’s a perfect little thief boy.

Some stars would be cool tho,,, (Guy who said no notes and immediately makes a note)

Slapping this here cause it's a detail a lotta people forget when drawing him HIS PANTS ARE BAGGY AT THE TOP!! They like. Pumpkin out. INCREDIBLY SHAPED I absolutely adore it and how they use it in official art and stuff. They look so comfy I want a pair

Skull

Ryuji!! “Charge Commander” Whatever that is. Joker’s right hand man!! (according to google it means he’s the guy who actually Finds the missions and that makes sense. He does that.)

Black main with yellow and red (also some silver/metal accs)

Pirate Boy

Poifect!!

Ok a bit more his fit compliments joker while also doing his own thing so NICELY this is a solid win for pegoryu but also it makes me so mad that Ann doesn't match them that well. Joker and Ryuji look like they were made to be put next to each other and I love it. 

The yellow is spaced out while still feeling like His color so so so well I love him…AND THE RED!!! Ketchup and mustard looking boy he’s incredible

The kneepads are a reference to his knee injury. I can't be crazy. Guys. guys I can't be.

The only thing I’d want is a little more asymmetry but I think I just like asymmetry

Panther

Femme Fatale ok she's a femme fatale she she's SHE’S A FEMME LESBIAN FEMME FATALE–

FIRE TRUCK RED with some dark reds and pink

Oh god where did we go so wrong

Zipper and leather motif? We COULD cook w/ that instead of sexualizing the grooming victim guys. Just sayin.

I think she should have some visual ties with mona,,, since they’re both cats,,,,,just sayin

The cooch zipper evokes physical pain. But I like the tail. The tail is cute. I like how it’s like. Alive.

I think her mask should make the cat ears hair accessories and go under her bangs instead of giving her a 5-head. Just me tho.

Rest under the cut!!!

Fox

He make a the calling cards that's what he does

Dark blues and blacks with some whites and reds (also a little bit of dark gold accs)

Visually, he’s like if whatever Akechi had going on was in one design. And was good.

Traditional Japanese culture (is that what I should call it? He probably draws from a specific era but I unno what) vibe!! And he kills!! I love him!!

Very top heavy, but it's balanced out with his tail, he’s perfect.

Queen

She’s the getaway driver!!! That's why her third awakening is a car!! Also team strategist but also getaway driver!!

Blacks and grays and dark blues and a smattering of white but honestly. It all kinda melds together I don't like it

Bad and stinky I hate this outfit. The spikes are cool though. Istg she’s meant to have a like. 80s biker theme. Also her codename is a reference to Queen the band I can’t be crazy

BAD but they fumbled with Makoto a lot imo

I promise I like Makoto. I just have Issues with her fit. I’ve SEEN her serve (P5D) I know she can

Oracle

Little sister!! She’s the guy in the chair because if anything bad happened to her I’d fuckin hurt someone also cause she’s a smartie pants

Blacks and greeeeens and a smidge of red to help her hair not feel out of place (also some metalwork like Ryuji)

So I’m kinda conflicted on this fit. I REALLY like her whole vibe, she’s like if the song She Came From Outer Space from ahit was a fit,  but i don't like how form fitting it feels. I think it should feel a bit more. comfortable.

Very bottom heavy!! Her outfit proportions feel like a splatoon character. Also a very techwear cyberpunk vibe, I love her!!

Necronomicon shouldn't have had tentacles now Maruki steps on her toes, imo Necronomicon shoulda had a like. Tractor beam. So she can pick up innocent cows. Don't ask me how this connects to her design, it just does. Top ten things that should be changed when 5 gets the reload treatment.

I NEED her to have a little cow charm somewhere it’s a physical need. She's an alien. I lived in alien country. I'm a professional. ALSO THE BIG CLUNKY CROCS ARE SO PERFECT!!!! and the way they hook into her pants AGH

Noir

MY WIFE!! Her arc is when the thieves begin to get kinda big heads and all cocky, so she’s a more classic gentleman thief to  show how she thematically pulls them back to earth! Also she’s the best party member. She deal the big number. I love her. 

Mainly pinks and purples, with a tasteful amount of black! I love her so so much

The pumpkin pants were INSPIRED. She looks so cute and full of whimsy ALSO THE BIGASS FEATHER!! It makes her feel so PERFECT when put next to Mona they mesh so well.

Tails I miss my wife. I miss my wife tails.

Crow (Robin)

Perfect prince boy Goro Akechi ~✰ he’s their enemy, the detective hunting them down (the Ganymede to Joker’s Arsene, if you will)

The better of his two persona fits, let's be real. Be honest with me. Look me in my eyes. Despite the bar being in hell tho, this outfit is really good!! I love all the A’s in it, it really makes me sad! The way his pants are shaped and sit on him scratches my brain just right. He looks like he has a stick up his ass and genuine morals (which he does!! Robin is just as much his persona as Loki!! In this essay I will–!!)

White to contrast all the black of the thieves, but red to tie him back in with them!! Also some gold accs to keep the visual warmth wowie

Some better shoes could do him well methinks, also further the bird motif let that be his unifying thing since he keeps the codename with the black mask fit

Violet

She NEEDS two fits ok. She’s the Sumi no idea what her job is. She can do some cool flips and teaches joker to do some cool flips. Visually, her design is DEFINITELY copycatting on joker which is so fuckin cool cause like. Yeah. yeah ofc she copies her older sibling/mentor figure. I wonder if she’s ever done that before huh. It SUCKS too tho cause she doesn't match Cendrillon which is sick and twisted. Second fit when she truly awakens as Sumire that matches Cendrillon is the better timeline.

Black with reds and a bit of gold detailing. ALSO SILVER ACCS!! Also lotsa bows! Cause she’s a copycat! We could take this further. 

She has the whole gymnast vibe but I’ll be real the way it’s executed just feels a little………..gross. She’s like 16 guys wtf. Cover her up a smidge more.

The silver chain belt thing for her sword was inspired. Also her roses.

Crow (Loki)

WHAT DO I EVEN SAY. WHAT DO I SAY.

LOOK IN THAT FIT’S EYES AND TELL ME THERE IS A GOD.

Fuck gamers I like to think metaverse outfits change as the persona user grows up and their spark of rebellion grows and changes but this fit feels like DIRECT evidence to the contrary. I can see perfectly clearly a 15 y/o akechi wearing this and feeling  SOOOO COOL AND EDGY. and just continues to think it’s sooooo cool and edgy as he grows up only to be made fun of by the thieves (But who knows, maybe this outfit is the exception)

I like the belts. But I’m also a chronic belt adder. I like a good smattering of belts.

The cape feels like a fun callback to his Prince Cape so uhm. Points there

The buttons across the front are so fuckign silly to me. Bro is wearing his evil onesie. His nefarious pajamas.

Bro NEEDS some big chunky boots or SOMETHING his limbs don't feel right

The helmet is perfect with no notes. Zero. I only wish they kept the red tips on his Bird horn things he had in his engine room sprites. I really liked those…

The stripes are silly heehee nice tie to Loki

Don't talk to me about the toes. Dont. 

Mona

Mah fuckin cat

Black with yellow and white (also some blue)

Anime cat thief jesus if perfect what can I say. I can say I love him. Only three people out here defending Mona and it’s me, Haru, and Joker

gamers i just spent the past 3 hours analyzing the phantom thieves' designs do i post it

[vixenofthemist]

SoulSilverShipping x Genshin Impact bc I missed drawing them and Genshin is my new fixation lol

Some brain dumping under the cut about like their weapons and constellations!!

[click for better quality]

I really debated over whether legendaries should dictate visions or starter/main pkmn should, and I’ve decided it’s up to the rule of cool lol. It’s a character by character basis xD

Originally Lyra had an Anemo vision and Silver had Pyro given by Lugia and Ho-oh, but I felt like with these two especially having their visions based off their starter Pokemon made the most sense? Since this game era focuses on having that strong relationship with your poke’s and Silver’s whole character arc is him coming to love his pkmn it seemed more right so I switched it last minute to be Pyro!Lyra and Hydro!Silver.

(Like I said above tho this au goes off the rule of cool so I’m thinking Dawn might have Cryo even tho no legendaries or starters would give her that but that’s beside the point rn ajdk)

ANYWAY some basic mechanics stuff for these two that is really basic bc I don’t think too much about game mechanics bc I mainly go off fav characters in Genshin rather then abilities aglhhs

Lyra

First of all: Lyra was made to be Genshin-ified. Like she’s already pretty close to Amber clothes wise so it was just really fun to play around and give her that Genshin feel!! She could absolutely be given more small details like Genshin loves to do but,,, small details are my weakness amdjsj

Weapon: Sword or Catalyst, tho I’m leaning sword bc she gives me Bennett energy play style wise!!

Constellation: Cyndaquill

Play style: I’m thinking, again, Lyra is versatile like Bennett where she can be built for either support or DPS, but her skills lean more DPS the more constellations you unlock to kind of emulate her becoming champion. Jokingly rn her Q is to hit a pokeball esq pyro sphere with her sword like a baseball bat to cause AoE pyro damage, but that may or may not stay LMAO

fun fact: her gloves are based off her Pokegear :>

Silver

Im not gonna lie. Silver was a pain.

and tbh I will probably change his design every time I draw it bc I am just. Not happy with it but also I have no idea what else to do ASJS his outfit is just so plain?? Like, wtf am I supposed to do with baggy pants and a jacket all the same color?? Lmao long story short I had the exact opposite experiencing designing silver then I did with Lyra lmao. Very in character xD

Weapon: Claymore, bc I feel like Silver wants to be a DPS Diluc so bad bc that’s like, the most powerful in his mind so ofc he’s gonna use a claymore to deal the most damage.

Constellation: Totodile

Play style: one things for sure: Silver is not Diluc, and at C0 he isn’t a good DPS at all and would actually be a good support or buff unit but he refuses to be bc that’s "weak" and he doesn’t travel with anyone so those abilities would be useless anyway lol. But as his constellation unlocks he DOES get better at DPS and his Q deals a lot of damage (bc it’s totodile line it’s gonna pack a punch) BUT it’s reliant on him buffing others with his E. I have no idea if that would actually work in game but story wise I like it a lot akdj

Fun fact: Earring :3

[autisticoolatta]

Brooo!!! Tell me more about character design!!!

TYSM FO. R SENDIGN THIS BUBBY <3

ok so. i will tlak ab my science team bcs hyperfixation <3 they range from human passing to so very nonhuman but none of them are really human ! this is going under a cut because it is so very long

darnold is most human , he looks p mcuh normal but he consumes things that should absolutely kill him VXBSB.. hes around 5′7 , i draw him w a square-ish shape language bcs hes intelligent and relatively sensible but round corners cause hes v kind !! i hc he enjoys old-timey fashion so i give him a bowtie & suspenders under his labcoat ! he also gets dimples bc cute. 

gordon is p human at first glance but if u look closer he has slightly pointed ears and his canines are a little longer than average. he also has retractable claws like a cat , benreys like wtf didnt you say it was weird that i had claws ? and hes like nah its weird you cant retract them. also its barely noticeable but gordons hair moves veery slightly when hes emotional becayse heehoo. hes around 5′9 and has a relatively wide rectangle silhouette bcs hes hard-working and trustworthy ! post-game he mostly wears comfortable casual clothes like sweaters and knee-lenght shorts. dresses like a dad :^)

coomer mostly looks like a regular friendly old guy , but he has a buncha cybernetics hidden under his clothing bcs of course he does ! the extendo-arms are visibly metallic but his leg enhancements are mostly internal. hes 5′4 and has a v much circular silhouette ! friend-shaped !! he wears kind grandpa clothes.. shorts , hawaiian shirts , vests etc ! and yes he wears crocs <3

forzen is also pretty human-passing in terms of appearence , though he Can and occasionally Does subtly shapeshift.. and she also consumes things that would be so deadly to humans. like motor oil and rocks :) hes seemingly immune to bullets and has fangs but only sometimes. shes 6ft tall and her shape is p much square ! he wears an outfit v similar to his military uniform bc everyone was like dude get some new clothes wtf. so she was like FINE *buys near-identical red beret , fishing vest , huge backpack , camo pants and boots*

tommy.... WAY too tall 2 be human. hes 7′8. taller than gman. his silhouette is very tall thin oval :) round edges again bcs hes kind ! hes lanky but a lot physically stronger than he looks. he also consumes inedible things like computer keyboards. he has fangs , his eyes glow in the dark and he can use sweetvoice to a basic extent ! he also wears suspenders and bowties along w comfy baggy clothes like sweaters & chunky sneakers or crocs ! he also wears a lot of chew jewellery and he loves patterned socks :) he also uses a cane because being SO fucking tall isnt v easy on yr joints ! he uses crutches on worse days.

bubby is. also very tall but nowhere near tommy. hes 6′5 ! he has noticeably very pale skin & neat rows of pointy teeth (altho some are probably chipped). they also have almost-clawed fingers , v pointy shape language with a tall thin rectangular kinda silhouette. theyr not v physically strong most of the time so theyre pretty scrawny. his strength works on cartoon logic tho so he can be strong sometimes if it makes the situation funnier hebfhebr.. in-game he wears p much exactly the scientist uniform w no added stuff , but post-game hes like oh shit ! i casn do what i want now !! and goes out and buys a shitload of leather jackets and chunky shoes and gets so many piercings. awesome. the piercings & studs on their clothes also add pointiness to his design :^) oh and ! they use crutches because spending most of your life suspended in goo isnt very good for your muscles .

gman ! 7′5 so also inhumanly tall. he has pale greyish skin and is pretty clearly not human , he also has fangs & his eyes glow perpetually he Cannot Turn That Off. he doesnt necessarily eat inedible stuff but he has uncharacteristic reactions to foods , like alcohol doesny affect him at all but he drinks a pint of sparkling water and wakes up in a hollowed out tree stump in the woods at 4am 2 miles from his house. he can also teleport , make himself invisible for a limited time , levitate , and shapeshift ! he has a tall thin rectangular silhouette similar to bubby , but a little wider bcs hes more imposing & strong. when hes not in one of his 50 identical suits , he wears dad clothes also; hawaiian shirts & shorts and of course... socks & sandals.

finally benrey ! he4s so small. simply small as fuck. hes generally around 4′4 , but he doesnt really have a consistent height bcs hes constantly shapeshifting because he can. they also shift their weight occasionally and their hairstyle is never consistent at all. they have pale greyish skin , the face shadow ofc is permanent as are their eyebags , and he also just . doesnt have a nose. he can smell he just doesnt have one. probably has no ears either. he has a round silhouette but sharp uneven teeth & generally p messy hair , cause hes unassuming and laid back but Can fuck u up if he wants to. which generally they dont bcs they dont actually like being in physical conflict much at all. they use a wheelchair post-canon bcs dying does that to u <3 he doesnt mind tho , he and tommy deck it the fuck OUT w stickers. he wears casual clothes like hoodies and sweatpants ,  and has a seemingly endless hat collection... chullos , helmets , ball caps , beanies , you name it ! i usually draw them with a specific hat based on the situation , like im doing an animatic of the callmecarson spelling bee and benrey has a ball cap that says “im a keeper” with a pic of a bee on it. awesome

OK THATS LIKE ALL I HAVE tysm for letting me infodump BSKJKD... if u read all of this im proud of u <3

[matoitech]

is there anything about the character designs you would make? like changes to their outfits build etc? (not including aina's whole outfit i think most of us wanna change it)

ohh good question.. i don’t think or know a whole lot abt character design (tho i’d love to see other ppl who r smarter abt it talk abt it 👀) but hmm.. lets think abt this.. im prob gonna miss some things ive thought of in the past buut heres a few

id change varys and vulcans designs for obvious reasons. esp vulcan god. i guess i get what they were going for w varys trying to go w ‘american cartoon’ style thats a common character design but that doesnt make it NOT racist, esp when both main Black chars look similar like that.

i’d decide on like heights and builds to Stick With and draw them looking the same way mostly lol. galo as relatively muscular like hes drawn in official art but like 5′8 maybe (thats what he is in my head) compared to lios canon 5′2 (short kings need rep <3). and aina is taller than galo in my head at like 5′10 to 6 ft smth so i think thats a good idea :) the women r typically drawn w less extreme shoulder to waist ratios than galo and lio which i find funny and kinda transgender so id keep that in lol

and give them organs. like i know its stylization but can we get some fat on these people

top surgery scars for galo (and lio if u wanna have some explanation for how he got top surgery on the run lmao? fire surgery? or he just has tiddies) bc theyre a rly obvious easy way to make a character trans. just like, stuff like that for various characters whatever way the gender transes. if /i/ was making promare anyway. if trigger was then i dont trust like that beyond post op scars tho

i think some of the outfits aren’t rly cohesive but that’s kinda part of the charm. especially for lucias since she looks like she stole from a hot topic which fits her character. id give her baggy pants though, like, if u keep her running around in a sports bra at work, big baggy pants would b a fun contrast, like winry fma style. also why is she wearing goggles and a gas mask. im like, okay with it, you do you lucia, im just confused <3

yes galo runs around half naked but its not treated the same way aina is treated w her outfit so yeah like. outfit changes w that. if the women all wear like crop tops then so should the men. equality.

actually thats a good idea. consider galo and lios shirts (lios under the jacket) but theyre like crop tops. genius. maybe if men showed a little more skin (i say as galo dresses like That)

but yeah can we like talk about how ainas outfit makes no practical sense. neither does galos but again, difference in treatment. i like her leather jacket though!

galo would have a prosthetic arm instead of a sleeve just cuz it would b better imo <3 also other ppl have mentioned this but he would prob realistically lose his arm after getting shot w the ice gun on it

if galo has a prosthetic arm i dont mind kray having one too honestly since both the hero and villain do, BUT i still think making kray b a disabled villain was shitty so

heris and remi have kind of boring basic designs to me but since i think thats like.. intentional maybe? its like. Fine. neither of them deserve cool designs.

there was one version of lios design where he had an off the shoulder shirt and a corset and im not like saying he should wear that bc it isnt rly practical but at the same time. what a look

honestly idk i mostly like the character designs beyond just some things to change up a bit! i like what they did with like the mix of anime and the american cartoon palettes they were going for. theres probably some things im forgetting, but just in general i dont RLY want to change anything, bc i think the designs of galo and lio in particular are pretty good and they look good together. one time i saw someone say they were gonna redesign galo to make him look not boring and then he looked like an asshole and i was upset -_- he is perfect leave my man alone

[rebelliouslala]

Jung Hoseok

You were so fucking late my guy lmao

you’re in your second year

late to your first day

even tho u JUST transferred

u slept in, you were so exhausted from unpacking

That as you were skateboarding

yes ur that quirky hehe

You crashed in a crowd of students, and heard a loud scream

You look up to a man in baggy clothes, and with a skateboard wheel mark on his face, he pouts

“HEY-?”

“I’m so sorry! It’s my first day!” you look around, sighing and grabbing out your animation card, before running to math class, “just call me and I’ll pay!”

So you finally made it to animation class

luckily it’s just drawing the first thing you ever drew

Yes this is why u take art

it’s easy

so u draw and draw and draw and draw and draw and draw and

Then, as you left

You’re grabbed by the shirt behind the building

u scream and take out your mace before the person lets go

“Ah ah ah ah okay! Sorry, i just, wanted to say im okay now”

the boy from earlier has his face a little moist, the tips of his teddy brown hair dripping wet

“My name is hobi”

“oh, mine is y/n, nice to meet you, and again, sorry”

“Ah, dont be, actually you should say sorry to my tip hat, i was dancing for money”

you look at him in awe, “dance?”

he nods, and he quickly spins before landing on his knee and one leg splayed out

you widen your eyes and clap, “w-wow. . .you’re. . .good”

he smiles and chuckles, “yeah, thanks, so, about that favor”

“You better not be a fucking-,” you grab for your mace again

“what? OH! N-No! no, i wouldnt do that. just, well, i was wondering if you could help me”

you lower your guard only slightly, “for what?”

He smiles, “i wanna shoot a music video, but it’s kind of hard because i want a characters, I saw your website, you do animation! So, can you help me out?”

So eventually he gives you his number, and to him yours

Thats when usually you did some stalking

He’s all around a great fella

yes i fucking said that

he dances, plays tennis and is one of their best players in, quiet possibly the whole country?

he’s in the top five

he helps out charity, he’s part of a frat, even raps sometimes for slams at this cafe?

yes u visited

But u kinda didnt like it

You did see his thing though, and snapped

it was good, but you much preferred him dancing, he seemed much more energtic

you go to him to the mv shoot

Holy fuck

He has wavy, light brown hair that shapes around his forehead in the shape of a heart, and a bright smile

Obviously he’s been drinking sprite

He has loose, green tie-dyed fashion pants

And a flower embroidered shirt that was half tucked in

he has brown sunglasses

Wow so handsome~

u gulp and he gently bounces

“well?!”

“Well, i think you look good, hobi”

He INSISTED you call him by his nickname

“Thanks! So, what do you think for the concept?”

“I think. . .i can do flowers, we are, i guess, in like a forest setting? What do you want?”

He looks at your eyes finally “sorry i did the thing where i zone out--”

“hobi. what do u want for ur mv”

“idk, i think whatever u think is good :)”

U pout because goddamn he’s cute

So u say fuck it and nod

You watch him dance

Around

Im not saying on im saying fucking

AROUND

Flowers

Barely brushing past them

Until at the last part of the video, where he “rises from he dead off the ground”

he lays back, and uses his core to bring him up all the way to his feet

On his human elevator ride up, he picks up a pretty piece of calandiva nearby him

And putting it near his jawline; he softly pants

yet smiles oh so sweetly at the camera

Okay that was kind hot

You leave a little quickly

and u cant get ur mind off of how

ADORABLE

his pout was

and just how talented he is????????

you’ve never been this whipped for a boy

especially since u dont rly trust men

U pull maybe two all nighters

With a small nap in between the days

dont do this or i will eat u okay

So ur like barely alive the next time you see him, and you sigh softly

“ok. . .done”

You go to his studio in his frat

which is just filled with stuffies

fluffly ones

and miniature collectible toys

You sit on the couch, resting your eyes as he watches

u drew a little horse characters besides him, dancing as well

whenever he smiled, the horse did too and did a flip, more intricate and detailed flowers popping out

At the end, the horse gently shrunk, and ran up to Hobi and kisses his cheek, and once he smiles

The horse fainted onto the flower, hearts fluttering over her

Just overall big uwu

and he couldnt believe how amazing it looked, especially in under

t w o d a y s

“y/n. . .i cannot thank you enough you really-,”

hoseok looked over to you

asleep

after maybe a nice 14 minute nap, you wake up to a small bounce of your body

and there is hobi

you in his huge, and very soft green hoodie

and your body very heavy in his arms, yet he still carried you all across campus back

back home

“hobi?”

you rub your eyes, pouting slightly

trying to see if this was a dream to the one of you doing flips with hoseok

and yes

yes he uwued

“Yeah? He asked quietly, gently sitting on a bench to collect yourself

and that he also wanted to see how cute you are waking up

“W-what did you think?”

“I thought it was wonderful, and how you did it in only two days? You’re so talented.”

“Mm. . .” you say quietly, exhaustion still covering you like a blanket

Hoseok chuckles and kisses your head, letting your eyes flutter

“ur so nice. . .hobi. . .i-i cant believe someone. . .a-as pretty as you. . .” your voice drifts off as you knock out

“I like u too, y/n” he only responds, letting you fall right back into his lap and stroking your hair

[itsmarianstories]

All good things come in threes

[Taegiseok Oneshot]

Sequel to ‘Focus’ (it’s not necessary to read Focus first!)

Taehyung loves his best friend Jimin, but he doesn’t love that Jimin keeps dragging him to boxing matches. That may or may not change once he meets a certain boxing coach… The only problem: said boxing coach already has a boyfriend.

Moodboard

Part 2

Word count: 8.892

Tags: Polyamory, (mostly) Fluff, a bit of Angst, Food poisoning (just in case anyone is uncomfortable with that…), in this part is a scene where it gets a bis physical if you know what I mean, but it’s not really smut, there are some smut references tho

Okay, cut that. He regrets his decision. Holy. Fuck. He regrets his words so much. Why couldn't he just have choked on the spot and died instead of letting his traitor-tongue spill the words for his eternal agony.

It was Friday already and Taehyung had to be over at Jimins in an hour. Currently he was having a minor breakdown in front of his closet while he himself wasn't wearing anything beside the towel he had wrapped around his waist. It was so silly. He felt stupid about not being able to decide on what to wear. He wanted to be unbothered and confident and just wear whatever he felt like (which were baggy pants and a nice, fluffy hoodie) but whenever he reached out for the clothes images of Yoongi and Hoseok appeared in his mind and it made his tummy do stupid things. It was dumb and cliché but he wanted to look good. Dress to impress. He can do that easily, he knows in which clothes he looks the best, he is not studying fashion and design for nothing. But he also can't show up to a casual evening like he was ready for the catwalk. Finding the middle was harder than he thought it would be, but that may also be caused by his nerves and sudden self consciousness.

He would have kicked Jimins door down long ago if Jungkook wasn't already there. It's kind of suspicious if he drags Jimin out now to help him with his outfit so he had to deal with it on his own, but he is also running out of time and... god he really has no idea why he is making such a big deal out of it. He has never felt like this before, he has never struggled with picking an outfit. This is getting ridiculous.

Tae slapped his own cheeks a few times and took multiple deep breathes.

“Alright, Kim Taehyung, stop being a douche and get your shit done.” He mumbled before finally reaching out for his baggy pants and favourite hoodie. So what if he looks like a trash bin? They probably won’t even look at him in the first place. Okay, that thought hurt more than it should. Taehyung shook his head and ruffled through his still wet hair.

He knocked on Jimins door a little earlier than necessary. Junkook opened the door.

“Oh! It's you! Look at this, I wasn’t sure you are still alive.” He joked and Taehyung smacked his chest before pushing past him into the living room.

“Shut up.” Taehyung mumbled, trying not to sound embarrassed. “Where is Jimin?” He asked and Jungkook followed him in the living room, flopping down on the couch.

“Still in the bathroom I guess.”

“Jimin?” Taehyung called out, knocking on the wooden door.

“Taetae?” Jimin called back, voice muffled through the door. He heard rustling coming from the other side and then the door opened, revealing his best friend. Taehyung immediately pushed in with a groan and closed the door again.

“I'm going to die.” He whispered to prevent Jungkook from hearing anything.

“Sorry Tae. They made the plans without letting me know or I would have warned you. To be honest I was a little pissed seeing they made plans in my apartment without letting me know.” Jimin explained, shrugging slightly.

“It's okay, it's just for one evening.” Taehyung said, although they both knew that was bullshit since it probably won’t stay at this one evening. It's not like Taehyung can make up excuses forever.

“How are you feeling?” Jimin asked, making a little jump to sit on the counter next to the sink. Taehyung snorted again and flopped down on the closed toilet seat.

“It took me like almost an hour to get dressed and now I’m wearing this.” He said and Jimin raised his eyebrows surprised, because he knows that fashion is usually a thing Taehyung doesn't have to think about.

“If it becomes too much tonight, tell me okay? We'll just say you don't feel well or something.” The dancer said, his legs swinging in he air for they are too short to reach the ground.

“I'll be alright. It's not like I’m madly in love or anything.” At least he hoped so. Jimin didn't seem to believe him but he also didn't call him out on it. Instead he jumped of the counter and pulled Tae up and into a tight hug.

“You are amazing Taetae. I'm sure it will all turn out alright.” Jimin whispered again his chest.

“You sap.” Taehyung said but his smile dropped and he added more seriously “I just hope no one will notice.”

“Don't worry, Jungkookie, at least, is oblivious to anything that is not concerning food.”

Soon after that they left the bathroom and found the living room already full. Jungkook has moved into the loveseat next to the couch, Yoongi Hoseok and another man that Taehyung doesn't know (though he looked strangely familiar) next to them on the couch. Jimin jumped happily in Jungkooks lap and made himself comfortable while Taehyung took place on the armchair in front of the couch. He pulled the knees against his chest and stared at his hands, not daring to look at the couple. For a few seconds it was tensely silent until Jimin started speaking.

“Right so just to the beginning, I'd very much appreciate it if you guys could stop planning things in my apartment without letting me know.” He scolded. Jungkook wrapped his arms around the dancers middle and rested his head on his shoulder, a small pout on his lips.

“Sorry, baby.” He whispered but Jimin only shoved his elbow in his boyfriends side. Jimin may be all cute and soft but when he's angry he can become really scary real quick. Yoongi chuckled a little at the other couple.

“I'm sorry, Jimin. It was our idea and we thought it would be most convenient to do it here because our flat is pretty far away and Jungkooks is so small.” The coach said.

“Whatever.” Jimin mumbled.

“Anyways, this is Namjoon. An old college friend from us and now another box teacher.” Yoongi changed the topic and pointed at the guy next to him on the couch. Taehyung finally looked up and found both, Yoongi and Hoseok staring at him. He gulped and forced his eyes off them and instead looked at Namjoon. He was tall with rather short hair and plumb lips. He waved slightly a soft smile on his lips.

“Namjoonie is one of the few people who can take Yoongi down.” Jungkook giggled.

“Yah! You brat.” Yoongi complained though he didn't really look offended. All that Taehyung could focus on was Yoongis hand lazily massaging Hoseoks thigh.

“Well, to be fair, you are slacking off. In the old days when you were still actively boxing I wouldn't have stood a chance against you.” Namjoon spoke up for the first time. Yoongi shook his head a little but there was a fond smile tucking at the corners of his mouth.

“Enough of that.” Hoseok said. “Namjoon you already know Jimin right?”

“Hardly so, we saw each other for a few seconds when he picked Jungkook up after practice.” Hoseok rolled his eyes and flipped him of with his hand.

“Yeah, so you have already been introduced just say that. This is Taehyung, Jimins best friend.” Hoseok pointed in his direction and Taehyung forced a smile that probably looked rather ridiculous. He waved slightly at Namjoon who gave him a full on dimple smile in return.

“Oh are you a dancer too?” He asked and Taehyung ignored Jimins quiet snort. His dancing is amazing okay? Excuse him.

“No, I'm taking classes for fashion and design.” He explained.

“Ah so you like, design clothes?” Namjoon asked and Taehyung nodded.

“And he is super talented!” Hoseok exclaimed brightly. Taehyung stared at him a little confused and when Hoseok returned his gaze something changed in his eyes but Taehyung couldn't quite put a name on it.

“Yoongi told me about your drawings.” He said and Taehyungs lungs felt like they were imploding. His eyes widened almost comically as they jumped between Yoongi and Hoseok.

“Oh did he show you his drafts? They are so good right? I already made him promise me, once he is a famous designer I want free clothes.” Jimin chirped up. Yoongi ripped his eyes from the intense staring to look at Jimin.

“He didn't really show me. It was more of an accident, but I agree.” He turned back to look at Taehyung. “They are really good. I liked the details.” The former boxer added and Taehyung thought he would throw up any second.

“Ah, okay.” Jimin said, sensing that something was going on here. “Taetae.” He called and snapped Taehyung out of his trance.

“Come, help me get some snacks, will you?” Jimin smiled and Taehyung nodded stronger than necessary, already jumping out of the seat and basically fleeing into the kitchen.

“What was that all about? Are you okay?” Jimin whispered once they were out of the otheres possible eavesdrop radius. Taehyung sighed and rubbed a hand over his face.

“I kinda doodled Yoongi as model for a few designs and he saw it. I wasn't sure if he recognized himself but apparently...” Jimin hummed as he went through his shelves to gather a few snacks as well as drinks and glasses.

“Tae I think you really should reconsider your choice of hiding what you feel for them.” He suddenly said and Taehyung gaped at him.

“What?” He whisper-hissed. “Are you kidding? I-"

“Tae, did you not see how they just stared at you? Either you doodled Mona Lisa  or they like you more than you think.” Taehyung scoffed.

“Don't be ridiculous.” Tae mumbled because he couldn’t allow himself to believe it. He just couldn't. He couldn't hope.

“Tae-" Jimin started again but Taehyung cut him of.

“No Jimin, please just drop it.” He said, grabbed the snacks and left without another word. He heard Jimins sigh but decided to ignore it. When he returned to the group he found that quite the awkward tension has suddenly clouded the air and all eyes landed on him. He wondered if something happened while he and Jimin were in the kitchen or if it was just so obvious how uncomfortable he was earlier. He cleared his throat and put the snacks down on the small coffee table in the middle, feigning cluelessness.

Jimin followed him seconds after and flopped down in Jungkooks lap again. Taehyung eyed the couple with something he would later recognize as longing. Not in a creepy kind of way but a 'I want what you have' kind of way and he felt awful for it.

Anyways they actually started playing games soon after. Starting of with monopoly but Jungkook soon flipped the board from the table when he had to pay rent to Yoongi for the fifth time. So they moved on to Uno and this time Jungkook won with a happy grin and frequent reminders what losers the others were. Hoseok became second and Taehyung thought the little dance the older did when he put down the last card was the most adorable thing he has ever seen.

The evening goes on and everything actually goes smooth to the point where Taehyung is actually surprised and enjoying himself. He pretends he doesn’t steal quick glances at the couple every once in a while and that his heart doesn't squeeze whenever the couple is sharing a moment.

They play a quantum of games and eventually Jungkook suggest to play charade. Jimin, Hoseok and Namjoon immediately agree. Yoongi seems rather displeased but he goes along with it anyway.

“We need to make teams.” Jungkook said. Jimin frowned a little.

“Let's just split up. Taehyungie can be in our team and Namjoonie in Hoseokie and Yoongis team.” The dancer said and Taehyung knew why he said that.

“That's boring we should draw lots and let fate decide.” Hoseok protested and as the stubborn energy-bundle that he is, of course he gets his way. So they draw lot’s and of course Taehyung ends up in a Team with Yoongi and Hoseok because fate hates him. Or the author who is writing a very shitty fanfiction that is his live is very sadistic, whatever. He just smiles and pretends to be fine and so they start brainstorming for words. Hoseok giggles at the words he is writing down and Yoongi just grins evilly and suddenly Taehyung is glad to be in their team.

He forgot about his stupid crush for a while and just enjoyed goofing around with his friends. It was loud and chaotic, but it was exactly what Taehyung needed after those last weeks. At some point it was Yoongis turn to portray a word. Taehyung and Hoseok both screamed words that didn't even match, hyping each other up even more. When Taehyung actually guessed correctly Yoongi threw both arms in the air and let out a rather high pitched scream, or more so the mix of a squeal and a laugh. Is eyes disappearing as bunch up in his bright gummy smile. Hoseok started screaming too because this was the last word and made them win the game. The couple pulled him in a group hug and it felt so natural that Taehyung held his breath for a moment.

And suddenly he was back on earth, his heartbeat picked up, his breathing became more of a silent panting, his hands started sweating again.

Really he can't say why it suddenly hit him like that. It was just a hug goddamn. But somehow that seemed to make something click in his mind and everything became too much. To be honest he doesn’t really remember leaving but suddenly his knees hit cold tiles and when he looked up he found himself in the bathroom.

He could hear voices from outside the door.

“I don't think that is a good idea.” “You have to trust me on this. Please, just let me talk to him.”

Taehyung froze. Not good. He can't handle talking to anyone right now.

Two soft knocks on the door and a single sob escaped Taehyungs throat. He didn't even realize he started crying.

“Tae.” Yoongi said and Taehyung bit in the back of his hand. “Please let me in.”

It's not even locked but Yoongi didn't try to open the door without Taehyungs consent.

“I... I'll be back soon.” He choked out but it didn't sound believable at all.

“Taehyung please.” Yoongi tried again and maybe Taehyung is a little masochist, or maybe he is tired from hiding and running away but instead of sending the older away he just whispers

“It's open anyway.” At first he hoped that Yoongi didn't hear it. Of course he did and the door opened few seconds later. Taehyung was still kneeling on the ground, his back to the door so he didn't see Yoongi before he felt him.

Big, warm hands brushing lightly over his back. He tensed a bit but his body reflexively pressed against the hand, searching for the contact.

“I'm sorry, if we overstepped.” The boxer mumbled, his voice almost more of a growl. Tae only shook his head.

“This... it's not like... it's not your fault.” Yoongis hands slowly wandered up his back and to his shoulder, turning him around and Taehyung looked at him for a second but the concern in the olders eyes made his heart clench so he lowered his eyes again.

“Please talk to me. Tell me what's wrong.” Yoongi said but Taehyung only shook his head again. He could never say it. Even if he wanted to, the words would stuck in his throat.

Yoongi scooped a bit closer, cupping Taehyungs face and forcing him to look up.

“What are you scared of?”Yoongi asked. Tae felt his bottom lip wobble as new tears found their way into his eyes.

“I... I can't-" He saw Yoongi frown before he pulled the younger into his embrace and Taehyung hated how much he loved it. How much he loved the warmth and Yoongis scent. And how safe he felt. It made him so weak and he melted against Yoongis chest.

“You can tell me, Tae. I'm not blind I noticed how you behaved the last few weeks. How you avoided us.” Taehyung immediately froze. Was he really that obvious? Were his efforts all for nothing after all?

“It's okay you can talk to me.” Yoongi repeated. Taehyung fisted his hands in Yoongis sweater and hid his face in the olders neck. He didn't know what to do. Should he really just confess? Make up a lie? Change the subject?

Eventually he pulled away and finally met Yoongis eyes.

“I'm sorry.” He mumbled. “For avoiding you and being weird and a mess. It's not you I swear. I'm sorry if I made you worry, to be honest I didn't think you would notice.” He admitted and after a short moment of considering and another moment of 'fuck-it' he added “I didn't think you would care. I figured-"

Taehyung experienced a lot surprises in his life, good ones as well as bad ones. Like the surprise party for his 16th birthday that Jimin has organized together with some friends. Or that one phone call from his mother telling him his grandmother had passed away. Usually a surprise was either good, or bad. And Taehyung usually loved good surprises. He wasn't so sure about this one.

His eyes are wide open, his body frozen in shock as all he can think is “WHATTHEFUCKWHATTHEFUCKEDYFUCKFUCKOMGFUCK"

Yoongis hands are still cupping his face and Taehyung can still smell his scent and feel his warmth. He can feel the others hair softly tickling his skin. He can feel his own heart beat at the speed of light. Maybe it's his imagination but he thinks he can also hear, or feel, Yoongis heart but ever so slightly slower than his own. However, all this is kind of a blur as the thing his mind his most focused on is the feeling of warm lips on his. Yes, I said lips. Min fucking Yoongi is kissing him. In the middle of his best friends bathroom, while snot and tears are covering his face and while his boyfriend is sitting just a few feet away in the living room.

To be really honest Taehyung had dreamed about this. Imagined how it would feel to kiss them. Nothing came near what he felt right now, though.

In total the kiss probably only lasted a few seconds, lips lightly pressed together and parting again. For Taehyung it felt like eternity until Yoongi pulled back again and stared him deeply in the eye. It felt like Taehyungs soul would freeze in place.

“Stop apologizing.” Yoongi said and it ripped Taehyung out of his trance.

“What the fuck?!” He hissed and jumped up, staring down at Yoongi in confusion, fury, fear, pain. Basically, a mess.

“Taehyung I-"

“Why would you do this?” Taehyung demanded further. Suddenly he felt very, very weak.

“Why would you do this to Hoseok? Why would you do this to me? I was happy with how it was. I mean not really but I could live with it. You just ruined everything! Oh my god, you made me a cheater! Your boyfriend is literally behind this wall? How can you do this? You have to tell him! You know what, I'll tell him. He deserves to know!” Taehyung rambled and made his way past Yoongi. He wanted to leave but he froze with his hand hovering over the door knob.

“He will hate me.” Taehyung whispered in sudden realisation. “Oh my god, he will actually hate me!” He whipped around staring at Yoongi who stood up again as well and didn't look fazed at all. It made Taehyung even more furious.

“This is your fault! He will hate me and then he will leave you and you will hate me too. Oh god and Jimin will be so disappointed.” He started pushing Yoongis chest. “I will end up alone because you couldn't fucking control yourself, what is wrong with you! Why would you even do this in the first place I-" Yoongi got hold of his hands and held him tightly in place. If Taehyung wasn't so distracted by his anger he would have been in wonder over how much strength Yoongi has in his tiny body.

“Taehyung.” The older said, his voice somewhat stern. “Are you done?” Taehyung frowned.

“Done? What do you mean done? I'm-" He tried to shake Yoongi off but the older was way stronger than him.

“Hoseok knows, okay? He knows and he is fine with it. No one will leave me, nor you, okay?” Yoongi said, his eyes digging into Taehyungs soul.

“What?” Taehyung asked softly, like a whisper.

“He knows.” Yoongi repeated. “Babe, can you come here for a second!” Yoongi yelled over Taehyungs shoulder and hardly 20 seconds later Hoseok stuck his head into the bathroom. Taehyung stared at him with wide eyes, Yoongi still holding his wrists tightly.

“Everything okay?” Hoseok asked, looking concerned as he noticed Taehyung standing there like he has seen a ghost.

“I kissed him.” Yoongi said, as if it was the most casual thing in the world. Taehyungs head whipped back to him, and back again to Hoseok staring at them both in shock because honestly what the fuck is happening? Hoseok opened his mouth, closed it again and eventually entered the bathroom completely.

“Is that why he looks like someone just told him santa is not real?” He asked and sat down on the edge of the bathtub. Yoongi nodded.

“He thought I cheated on you. With him.” Hoseok snorted. Actually snorted.

“That's cute. As if you'd ever dare to do that.” He said with oh so dark eyes. Yoongi winked at him and Taehyung felt sick. This was all too much for him to handle.

Yoongi lead him over to the toilet and placed him on the closed lid before sitting down next to Hoseok and taking his hand, pulling it in his lap.

“I... I don’t understand.” Taehyung choked out, his eyes jumping between the two men. They both smiled and Taehyung felt weird.

“Have you never wondered why we showed up at the cafe so often? Your Americano is not that good.” Yoongi said and Hoseok smacked him on the arm.

“Aish, shut up you idiot.” Yoongi pouted.

“Let me explain, I have always been rather open as you may have noticed.” Hoseok started. “And I have also been rather open with my relationships. I noticed already in my teenage years that I don't always fall for only one person. I was in polyamory relationships before but they didn't work out and then I met Yoongi and it was enough.” Tae gulped. Was it suddenly hot in here? Yoongi tilted his head to the side and closed his eyes, just listening to what Hoseok is saying. The latter had a fond smile on his face throughout his whole speech.

“When I first met him, I told him that I might fall for someone else in the future and he was okay with it. We agreed that whenever it happens we would be honest with each other and find a way. I don't think either of us expected Yoongi to be the one to fall for someone else.” Taehyungs eyes widened as he watched a blush creep on the oldest cheeks.

“When Yoongi came home that one day telling me that he met someone, I felt so many things. I was kind of shocked to be honest, and nervous and maybe a little scared when he said he wanted me to meet them. But I was also excited because I saw that sparkle in his eyes, the same sparkle he had on our first date so I realized how serious he was.” Yoongi chuckled embarrassed and let out a single scream that made Taehyung jump.

“When Yoongi brought me to your cafe, I was literally so nervous and then I met you and,” Hoseok sighed, still smiling “ it just fit? Okay, at first I was worried because I thought you were only interested in Yoongi but Yoongi said I’m just being dumb. And when we continued to come by more often and actually get to know you, I was so excited. You just kind of completed us in a way that I didn't know I needed.” Hoseok started frowning.

“But then you started avoiding us and I thought you noticed how we felt and it made you uncomfortable. Then Yoongi told me about those drawings you did of him way back and I thought about everything a lot and I  remember how I felt when I first had a crush on multiple people and how scared and confused I was. I talked with Yoongi about everything for hours probably,” they both chuckled “and we decided to give it a try. You were already avoiding us so we didn't really have much to lose, so we came up with this evening. To this evening I'm still not sure if I'm right, or just hopefully assuming. Yeah, I just thought I'd be honest.” Hoseok looked actually nervous now. Yoongi let go of his hand and instead brought it up to his hair, gently trailing his fingers through the dark strands.

“You were amazing, baby.” He said and Hoseok snorted again, before they both turned to look at Taehyung who sat frozen on the toilet seat. Damn, this was so much for his two braincells to process. There are literally two hot guys sitting in front of him telling him they have a crush on him? Is this the real life?

“I,” he started but suddenly felt something drop in his stomach

“I really appreciate every thing you said just now and would love to continue this further but first, and really please don't take this personal-" He rambled as quickly as possible before jumping up, only to turn and drop to his knees for a nice reappearance from his lunch. God must really hate him.

“Oh my god, Tae!” Hoseok screeched. Yoongi was by his side within less than a second, brushing his bangs back and rubbing soothing circles on his back while Tae puked out his soul. Taehyung missed what Hoseok did, too busy focusing on not choking on his vomit.

“I-I'm sorry" He managed to slur out between his heaving . His mouth felt kinda numb but unfortunately it didn't block out the taste.

“Shh, don't apologize, love.” Yoongi murmured and Tae really wanted to appreciate the pet name but already gagged again. The small room was suddenly filled with multiple voices, Tae recognized Hoseok, Jimin and probably also Jungkook and Namjoon. Wow, this is just great.

Jimin flopped down on his other side, rubbing his shoulder. Yoongi flushed the toilet after Taehyung was done and Hoseok handed him a glass of water, which he accepted thankfully.

“What happened?” Jimin asked worried and pressed a cold, wet towel against his forehead. The dancer looked between the three of them but neither said a word. All eyes settled on Tae eventually.

“I uhm,” He coughed a little “I may or may not have eaten a salmon sandwich that I found in my fridge from like uh... two weeks ago.” He admitted sheepishly the whole room groaned.

“Tae, why are you like this?” Jimin whined and Taehyung wanted to make a joke but was rudely interrupted by another vomiting attack.

“You can stay here for the next few days, until you feel better. I don’t want you to be alone like this, you might smother on your own vomit in your sleep.” Jimin said. His only response was another aggressive heave though. At least until Taehyung was able to breath again.

“No, Jiminie you have practice and stuff. It's okay, I'll sleep on my side. You know, stable side position and all.” He protested.

“No, Tae really I-"

“He can come to us.” Yoongi suddenly said.

“How is that any better? Instead of bothering my best friend I'll bother the guys I-" He stopped midsentence when he realized what he was about to say. Damn this food poisoning must have an impact on his brain capacity.

“The guys you what?” Hoseok asked with a smirk and a brow raised.

“Nothing.” Tae quickly mumbled and blushed, gnawing on his bottom lip.

“Stop, both of you. We can come back to that once Taehyung feels better. Hoseok and I have kinda like, opposite schedules so one of us is basically always at home. We can take care of you.” Yoongi said and wouldn’t Taehyung feel so miserable right now, he would have thought it was hot.

“Okay" Jimin said “I guess that works. I'll come visit you, Taetae.”

“What? Don't I get a say in this?” He protested and it was almost funny like all three men said “No" at the same time. He huffed offended.

“You might be delirious, we can't relay on your opinion.” Hoseok grinned.

“I call that bullshit.” Tae pouted.

“ I don't know, that's probably just your sickness talking.” The older mused and Tae made an effort to punch him but Hoseok was standing too far away from where Tae was cowering on the ground and he was honestly too weak right now.

“Let him be, hope. I think he already suffered enough today.” Yoongi said, pulling Taehyung up from the ground. The younger whined in a silent 'yes'.

“Yeah well, I suffered the last few weeks.” Hoseok mumbled but rushed to Taehyungs other side to help Yoongi drag him out of the bathroom. Jimin rushed past them, heading to the kitchen only to return with a few plastic bags.

“Here, you know, for the car.” Taehyung grimaced and the thought almost made him vomit again. They said goodbye to Jungkook and Namjoon who were waiting in the living room and soon after he found himself in the back of Yoongis car, his head resting in Hoseoks lap as the older brushed his fingers through his hair. Man, this would be so nice if Taehyung wouldn't feel like dying right now.

“How are you feeling back there?” Yoongi asked with a glance in the rear view mirror, as if he just read his mind.

“Ugh" Taehyung groaned.

“We'll be there soon, it's not far.” Hoseok assured.

True to his words they arrived barely 15 minutes later and Taehyung realized that their excuse why they have planned this evening at Jimins apartment, was a blatant lie.

They helped him up the stairs into the second floor and Taehyung tiredly dropped on the coach as soon as it was in sight. He looked around in awe, taking in every little detail, from the poorly decorated window panes to the many photos on the walls and the kumamon pillows next to him. He loved everything about it. Especially how he was suddenly surrounded by their scent.

“Alright, we- Tae what are you doing, you can sleep in the bed.” Yoongi said. Taehyung frowned.

“Now, I don't want to-"

“You are literally sick did you think we would let you sleep on the couch?” Hoseok scolded and Taehyung was picked up again, manhandled really, and basically carried to the bedroom. The bed was huge. There was probably room for four people.

“Alright, we only have one bed, so you'll have to share with one of us. Actually I can sleep on the couch.” Yoongi said and Tae felt already bad.

“No baby, your back will hurt in the morning, it's fine I'll take the couch.” Hoseok contradicted.

“Can't we just all sleep in the bed? I don't want any of you to sleep on the couch.” Tae asked, already sitting cross-legged on the mattress.

“That would be quite cramped.” Yoongi frowned.

“What? Are you blind? Do you not see how huge this is?” He said and patted the bed.

“Fine.” Yoongi eventually said. They helped Taehyung get ready, things like brushing his teeth. He was a bit embarrassed but they took care of him so gently it made him feel all warm and fuzzy. Eventually he laid carefully tucked in, in bed and watched the other men get ready and it made something start bubbling in his stomach, but in a good way. Not the way that made him puke earlier.

Oh no, why did he think of that now. He hurriedly fought against the blanket to get up but his limps got tangled in the sheets and he initially winced about ruining the beautiful bed. At least he thought he would. Just in time Hoseok flopped down in front of him and handed him a bucket. It wasn't really much that came out, Taehyungs stomach probably almost empty by now. It's still nothing you want in your bed though. The forced heaving, the bitter-sour taste, the guilt and maybe exhaustion from today and the last weeks brought tears to his eyes. Hoseok went to empty the bucket and Taehyung felt so bad about it. He wouldn't even want to do it with his own vomit, even more so someone elses.

“I'm sorry.” He slurred, tongue still kind of numb. Yoongi took Hoseoks place and Taehyung saw how he already wanted to protest again so he quickly continued.

“For being gross and noisy, b-but mostly for avoiding you and making you feel bad.” He nervously rubbed the sleeve of his hoodie over his sweaty forehead but Yoongi took his hand away and kissed it instead.

“Go to bed love, you need rest.” The older said and gently brushed his cheek. Taehyung unconsciously leaned into the touch and closed his eyes with a quiet hum, or rather sigh. Finally he laid back down and moments later Yoongi followed, crawling in next to him. Hoseok came back with the bucket and placed it next to the bed, just in case, before joining the two men on the mattress.

The first few moments it was still a little awkward but then Taehyung decided to just say fuck it and make the best out of this moment. He could always just blame it on the sickness afterwards.

He snuggled up with his back pressed against Yoongi and pulled Hoseok closer. The first moments were a little awkward but when the two men got over the shock -or surprise really- they kind of melted together into a big puddle of human. It was amazing how they could make their bodies fit together so well, like puzzle pieces that match each other although they are from different puzzles.

Taehyung relished in the warmth and safety the others provided and it calmed his aching body. He smiled happily when Hoseok pressed a kiss onto his head and whispered a quiet “Goodnight Taetae”

 Taehyung spend the next week at their flat and at first he still felt bad and protested when ever they did something for him. However, he quickly realized that you can't ever win against Hoseok and you really, really don't want to piss Yoongi off so he just relented and allowed them to spoil him. Once he stopped puking out everything that reached his stomach (which was after about four days jesus christ) they cooked him food and brought it to the bed or couch, where ever he was currently resting. They helped him change and shower (that was a really hard discussion with Taehyung claiming to be fine by himself only to actually slip in the bathroom and having the two men scold him the full ten minutes while helping him afterwards) and cleaned up after him. Hell, Yoongi even picked up some notes a classmate wrote for him over the classes he missed.

With every day Taehyung felt himself falling a little deeper and at the fourth day he was sure this was not just a stupid crush anymore. He had enough time to think about everything Hoseok said in Jimins bathroom and while he still wondered how the fuck they could actually like him back, he also wasn't stupid okay. Now that he knew (and had a lot of free time) he started to notice small things, like the lingering touches, the fond stares, besides from the obvious. Yoongi almost ever only called him by some pet name and Hoseok hugged or cuddled him whenever he got the chance to. Besides, who would go out all of their way to care for a sick person when they don't even know them that long?

The exciting and giddy feeling from the beginning, the 'oh my gosh they like me back what the fuckedy' has changed to a current state of warmth that was lazily pooling in his stomach, more of a 'wow look at these beautiful men, yep I scored them'. And yes, he does realize that he hasn't really scored them yet, but he was determined to change that, now that he didn't feel like puking on their feet every ten minutes anymore. He actually prepared a speech, wanting to be ready so that everything goes smoothly and he waited for them both to be home. Hoseok usually worked in the early morning and came home around afternoon while Yoongi started around late noon and came back in the evening.

Taehyung was sitting on the couch, cross-legged, a pillow in his lap and watching some drama on Netflix while Hoseok was preparing dinner. The kitchen and the living room were one big opening so Taehyung was able to watch Hoseok work and damn if that wasn't one of the hottest things he has ever seen. So yeah, he didn't really focus on the drama, like at all. He also was kinda nervous and tried really hard not to let it show. Taehyung was glad as well as scared when Yoongi entered with a groan.

“Hey babe, hard day?” Hoseok asked. Yoongi came over and greeted him with a kiss. It was sickeningly domestic and Taehyung loved everything about it.

“Mhmm, it's getting better.” Yoongi mumbled against his boyfriends lips. Taehyung didn't understand why he suddenly blushed.

“Go get changed, dinner is ready and your clothes smell of sweat.” Hoseok said, petting Yoongis chest.

“Aye, aye, sir.” The boxer replied and made his way over to the bedroom but not before coming over to him and leaving a gentle kiss on Taehyungs hair. The younger couldn't help but beam. Yoongi probably didn't see it, but Hoseok did and returned it with a fond expression. It motivated Taehyung even more to have That Talk and he decided to approach it after dinner.

 “So, I'm not puking anymore.” Wow, Tae-dumbass-hyung, great start.

“Mhm, we noticed.” Hoseok mused, amused.

“It's just, I can probably return home soon and...” Damn where did his speech go? Why was this suddenly so hard?

“And...?” Yoongi asked.

“Well... I wanted to thank you guys. You really did so much for me, I don't know how to make it up to you.” He started to pick on the hem of his (Yoongis) sweater.

“You know we don't want you to do that anyway.” Hoseok scolded.

“Y-Yeah. On that note... I thought a lot about what you said, you know in the bathroom before I.... yes anyways. To say I was surprised would be the biggest understatement, I really...” He sighed frustrated, this is not how he wanted to do this. He took a deep breath and faced Yoongi.

“You know that night, where Jungkook fought that dude who harassed Jimin? And you were so angry at him for fighting like that, I was really amazed then. I always hated violence and everything having to do with it so I kind of just put you in that box as well. I judged you without even knowing you and you just went and threw those prejudices away just like that. It really impressed me but I didn’t allow myself to dwell on it too much because I knew you had a boyfriend. But then I got to know both of you and I really don't know when it happened but at some point I realized that... that my feelings were becoming a little more than what they should. And I kind of panicked because I was so sure you would be disgusted if you were to ever find out so I tried to minimize the contact. I didn't ever think there could be a possibility of you liking me back.” The two men stared at him with something close to awe and Taehyung really wanted to hug them.

“A-And I don't know how we should proceed from here, I have never been in this situation before, so I don't really know what to do. I just know that I really, really like you, both of you.” He mumbled those last words, suddenly feeling a lot more shy again. It was so relieving to let it out, to finally admit it. It felt like he had spent too much time underwater and was now finally able to breath again.

“Well, I've been in poly relationships before but everyone is different and needs different dynamics according to everyone’s comfort zone, so this is new to all of us.” Hoseok said, completely casually, like this was just some everyday conversation.

“R-Relationship?” Taehyung gasped. Technically this was the logical next step after they had confessed to each other, but it still felt kind of surreal to him.

“If that's what everyone wants of course.” Yoongi spoke up. He was a little more itchy and it was honestly adorable. Taehyung pulled his knees to his chest and rested his head on it.

“I don't know.” Taehyung whispered. “I mean I want to but... I’m scared.” Hoseok and Yoongi moved to sit on his left and right.

“It's okay to be scared.” Hoseok said and ran his fingers through Taehyungs hair, pushing his bangs out of his eyes.

“Can we take things slow?” He mumbled, suddenly feeling very young compared to the other man.

“Of course. We don't have to label anything, we can just spend some time together and see how it goes, okay?” Yoongi assured, his hand caressing Taehyungs thigh carefully. The youngest gulped and nodded.

“And uhm... can we not tell anyone just yet?” He asked. “It's not like I’m ashamed or anything just-“ Hoseok chuckled.

“You don't have to be so nervous, baby. It's okay, we understand. Again, this is new for us too.” Taehyung nodded. He felt a little shaken up, he didn't know why.

Yoongi then stood up from his chair and pecked Taehyungs forehead.

“Alright, let's clean up, then we can watch a movie or something.” He said. Hoseok stood up as well and moved to help Yoongi but Taehyung grabbed his hand. The older turned around a little surprised.

“Uhm... I already k-kissed Yoongi and I think it would only be fair if I...” Taehyung blushed. Hoseok chuckled.

“You want to kiss me?” He asked as if it wasn't clear. Taehyung turned his head away.

“You have to answer me, or I won’t know what you want.” He grinned and Taehyung let out a frustrated scoff.

“Yes, okay? I want to kiss you, happy now?” He pouted and Hoseok smirked.

“Very happy.” He said, while leaning down and pressing his lips against Taehyungs. The kiss was over in less than a second and when Hoseok pulled back Taehyung chased his mouth but the older shook his head amused.

“This will have to do for now. Go clean up.” Taehyung pouted again but did as asked anyway.

It was a couple of minutes and a bit of dish washing being done later that they found themselves on the couch together. Tae sat in the middle his legs draped over Yoongis lap who was lazily caressing his thigh. Hoseok had an arm around Taehyungs shoulders and used it to brush his fingers through his hair. The youngests head was resting on Hoseoks shoulder. He had no idea what movie they where watching but he enjoyed it no less. He still couldn’t believe this was actually happening.

The next following weeks they kept hanging out like that. Going out for dinner together, to the cinema, to the mall. Tae even agreed to go to box fights together or they just stayed at home. And it was great and fun and all but...

Hoseok and Yoongi obviously were a little closer and while they tried to include Tae as best as possible but at the same time he felt them holding a certain distance. It was like he was a third wheel all this time.

“We need to talk!” He blurted out while they all sat together around the TV once again. Hoseok and Yoongi froze and exchanged a glance.

“What is it?” Hoseok asked carefully. Both man straightening up on the couch. Tae bit his lip and stared at his fingers, a bit scared of their answer to his question.

“Am I making you uncomfortable?” He said, quick like removing a band aid.

“What?” Yoongi and Hoseok asked in unison.

“I mean I’d totally understand. You two had a perfect relationship way before I came and I just like, squeezed in. You can just tell me if that’s the case. I mean" he chuckled coldly “I guess it would kinda hurt, but I’d really understand. It was fun but I guess it just doesn’t really fit-" His sentence was cut off when Yoongi turned his face and kissed him with such force that Tae gasped in his mouth. Yoongi used that opportunity to slide his tongue in Taehyungs mouth. It felt desperate and needy and it was everything that Tae needed in that moment. His hands covered Yoongis that cupped his face, holding them in place.

“Don't say stupid things like that!” Yoongi whispered against his lips, giving him a last peck before pulling back.

“We wanted to give you time, to get used to everything. We didn't know we were making you feel like that.” Yoongi explained.

“But we want you.” Hoseok added, his voice rough as he turned Tae to look at him. “We definitely want you.”

And then he crashed their lips together too. And wow. It was the first time they kissed since that almost nonexistencial peck all these weeks back and maybe Tae was greedy but really who cares. He wrapped his arms around Hoseoks neck pulled him impossibly close while leaning back on the couch, causing Hoseok to basically lay on top of him. In the process he reached out to his side, searching for the other one of his beautiful men. Yoongi got the hint and took Taes hand interlacing their fingers.

“Can-" He gulped “Can we go to the bedroom?” Tae asked shyly.

“Are you sure?” Hoseok asked and chuckled at Taehyungs furious nodding.

Yoongi stood up first and helped Tae up, Hoseok following them quickly. Maybe it was a bit soon but so what. Some people fuck at the first date.

The youngest went straight for the bed watching as the other two looked at him slightly amused, slightly endeared. Yoongi crawled over to him, sitting down next to him and watching Hoseok. The latter smirked and took off his shirt before joining them. Tae couldn't take his eyes off him, he was so stunning. His hand went straight to Hoseoks chest, feeling the muscles twitch under his touch, the smoothness of his skin, his warmth.

He gulped again, looking up to see both Yoongi and Hoseok grinning back at him. Hoseok leaned down to kiss him again with so much passion that Tae moaned against his lips. He felt Yoongis hand starting to fiddle with his shirt and shoving the hem up to the point where Taehyung pulled back to take it off completely.

He then turned to Yoongi, motioning him to take his shirt off as well, leaving them all bare chested. Impatiently Tae pulled both of them down, wanting to feel their skin against his. Yoongi dived right in, pressing his face against the youngest neck and nibbling at the skin there.

“You have no idea for how long I wanted this.” Hoseok murmured.

'Same' Tae thought as he took his hand and interlaced their fingers. He was in complete bliss of finally having the weight of his insecurities gone.

The night flew past them, with their bodies dancing together none of them paid attention to things like time. Dawn had already started once they flopped on the bed together, laying pressed together in one small pile of human. Taehyung was absolutely exhausted and he was pretty sure neither him nor Yoongi would walk much the following days but he didn’t regret it one bit. He sighed happily, hearing even breathing to his left and soft snoring to his right. In this very moment he was so sure that this is his place, this is where he belongs, where he is supposed to be.

Luckily it was Friday, or more like Saturday by now so they could stay in bed and laze around all weekend. Yoongi was the first to wake up, probably some when around noon. He pressed a kiss to Taes shoulder and Hoseoks arm (since it was the only thing he could reach) and crawled out of bed with a groan on his lips every time his hip ached. Tae woke up only moment later. He blinked sleepily and scratched his head, looking around. Once he saw that Yoongi was gone he decided to get up as well. He carefully tried to peel Hoseok from around him and pulled up a fresh pair of shorts (stolen from Hoseok). He rubbed at his lower back with a grimace on his face when he felt the stiffness of his body. Yoongi chuckled once he saw him waddling into the kitchen. It smelled heavenly of coffee.

“Morning sleepyhead.” The older laughed. Taes hair was sticking up in every direction.

“Morning.” He mumbled back.

“How do you feel?” Yoongi asked and Tae made a grimace again.

“I’m okay, what about you?” He asked back, carefully sliding on a chair, watching Yoongi making breakfast. Yoongi smiled at him.

“I’m used to it. Hope is... well he has a lot of stamina, you know.” Yoongi said and Tae snorted.

“Yeah, I noticed. I came like three times while he just kept going.”

“I know, I was there too.”Yoongi chuckled and looked at something behind Tae. A grin spread on his face. Tae turned around to see Hoseok stumbling into the room, scratching on his bare chest, eyes barely open. He walked over to Tae and slung his arms over his shoulders from behind and buried his face in his neck. Tae giggled as Hoseok started to nibble at his neck.

“How are my two lovely boyfriends?” Hoseok murmured against Taes skin. Technically they never officially agreed to be boyfriends but no one said anything against it.

“We are fine, hope.” Yoongi laughed and handed both of the a cup of coffee.

“I’m sorry for last night, I got a bit carried away.” Hoseok mumbled and started to massage Taes lower back. Yoongi walked around the kitchen isle and joined the pair. Tae pulled him onto his lap and Hoseok slung his free arm around his middle.

“We are gonna make this work, right?” Tae asked quietly and snuggled closer to Yoongi. The older hummed lowly.

“I think we will. We just have to promise each other to be honest and speak up if something bothers us. Like you did yesterday.” Yoongi stated.

“That was really brave of you.” Hoseok agreed, pressing a kiss to Taes hair.

“Stop!” Tae giggled a little flustered.

“You know what people say,” Hoseok said brightly “All good things come in threes.”

Yoongi groaned but smiled anyway.

 [Bonus]

"Can you please finally tell me what the hell happened in that bathroom of mine?" Jimin pressed. Tae smiled sheepishly.

"A lot. Basically I was an idiot and you were right and I should have listened to you and been honest and all this chaos could have been prevented." He admitted, staring at the ceiling. Jimin inhaled deeply.

"I'm not saying I told you so, but that's exactly what I'm saying." Jimin pouted. Tae looked over to his best friend who was laying next to him.

"Maybe your bathroom has magical match making skills we didn't know of. Somehow both our love stories started in there." Tae chuckled.

"Hmm, maybe I should make a business of it. We'll just lock couples in there until one of them cries or vomits. What could possibly go wrong?" Jimin joked.

"You mean except of the slight chance of us getting sued?" Jimin giggled and slapped Taes chest lightly.

"I can't believe you'll have threesomes on a regular basis now." The dancer mumbled. Taehyung snorted.

"It sounds like a lot of work to be honest. Isn't it exhausting?" Jimin asked and Taehyung couldn't help but love.

"Hobi does most of the work, so it's fine. He-" His sentence got cut off.

"Yah, actually I don't wanna know after all. But I'm happy for you, TaeTae." The two friends smiled at each other.

"I'm happy too."

[Thanks for reading! :)]

[awakeindeath]

A Little Black Stone

In about an hour. I’m going to be executed. At least, I hope so. 

I’m sitting in my cell. My home for the past… however long. Fifteen by five. It’s long and narrow and everything in it is polished steel. The bed goes across the back wall, instead of the side, so it’s only five feet long. Which would be okay if I was an Oompa Loompa, but since I’m about six feet tall it means I haven’t gotten a decent night’s sleep in the six months I’ve been in here. The sink is placed at well below waist high, so I have to bend down to use it, but the toilet is so tall have to jump a little when I sit on it. The window to the outside is on the back wall. It’s just an open square about two feet wide, with four bars in it, and a pile of a couple dozen polished white stones on the sill. The bars are not placed vertically like you would think, the way you see in the movies. Not even placed horizontally. The bars are splayed out like the feathers in a peacock’s tail. All coming to a point in the middle and spread around the outside edges so there is a wide gap at the top. The window is situated about two and a half feet of the bed. Too high to see out when I’m sitting up, too low if I’m kneeling. So I have to be crouched over to get any view of the outside. The view, predictably, is of the execution yard, with the gleaming steel of the Gallows right in the middle. Granted, that’s also the exercise yard and the sports field. It’s covered in a very high-quality turf that is the same green as lime Kool-Aide, with bright white lines permanently painted in to mark out a soccer field. The Gallows are right in the center of that field. They are set up very tall, with ten feet between the floor and the turf, so the inmates just play as if it weren’t actually there. The supports are simply another obstacle in the game.   Beyond the field are the walls. Wall. There is only one and it’s about seven feet high and made of solid concrete. It wouldn’t be hard for two people to climb over it if they wanted to. There’s no barbed wire and the guards almost never patrol it. But no one ever does. At least, no one’s ever tried since I’ve been here. If you look past the wall you can see the outside. Trees. Blue sky. Roads. Buildings. A school. It’s all visible if you ever looked out that far. No one ever does. The Prison is built in a half circle with the Gallows at the center. Every room on the inside curve of the Prison is a cell. Every cell’s window points out towards the Gallows. The other side of the Prison doesn’t have windows on it. Just pictures of the Gallows hung where the windows would be. The best is the Warden’s office because it has a ten by ten painting of the Gallows. Apparently one of the first inmates was an oil painter and she made it especially for the Warden. In thanks, the Warden gave the prisoner two draws the next time her turn was up. She died happily. Everyone says so. Everyone who saw it. And she looked so pretty in her pink gown as she danced on the rope. Everyone struggled as they hung. It was some primal reaction to the rope tightening around their neck. When your breath cut off, you struggled. It didn’t mean it wasn’t an honor, a privilege, to be chosen. Watching someone dance their life away at the end of a rope didn’t make me want to be the next one on the Gallows any less. It was just part of what happened. Part of the process. Your body fighting what your mind has already accepted. The Warden describes it like the pain of childbirth. You have to go through it to reach the other side. All of us are looking forward to our turn on the Gallows. Even me. Tho I couldn’t say why exactly. It feels like I’m eight and waiting for Christmas. I’ve watched so many others get the privilege of going to the Gallows time after time. Even now, sitting on my too short bed in my too long cell I’ve got butterflies in my stomach. My palms are sweaty even tho I keep wiping them on my suit pants. I look at my pile of white stones on my window sill. So many times my turn has come up. So many times I’ve gotten unlucky. Maybe it’s my suit. I’m wearing a business suit. It’s a nice suit. Charcoal grey with pinstripes. Black wingtips. Purple tie. I picked it out myself when I first arrived. It was donated, a long time ago. Some generous member of the community decided that the inmates needed to look good on their big day and gave the Prison a few dozen suits and dresses. Every inmate got to choose the one they wore. The guy before me had a suit that he looked like he was drowning in. But he’d liked its plum color so much that he had strutted his way down to the Gallows, baggy pants dragging the dirt and his hands covered entirely by the sleeves. I had to admit, watching him hang, he had looked fetching while he struggled. Not unlike a raisin on the vine as the sun set behind him. That suit was back on the rack down in the Clothier, waiting for the next person to pick it. It wouldn’t take long. It was such a unique color. People said the colorful suits and dresses were lucky. There was one suit I used to want to wear that was a neon green so bright it seemed to glow in the dark. It had so many stones in its pockets that they had to be sewn shut. Eventually, when it could hold no more stones, the Warden had retired that suit. It went up next to a pink and orange polka dot dress whose purse had been stuffed to bursting before it was retired. Both were on display in a glass case next to the Warden’s office. The lady in the cell next to mine, a hardened biker type who was covered in tattoos and scars, said the suit I picked was unlucky. That it was too dark. Fate wouldn’t notice it. I’d be stuck forever in the Prison. Hoping to get lucky. That’s why she chose a cherry red zoot suit with lavender pinstripes. But my suit fit. It hugged me like it was tailored. Once, a long time ago, the Warden had said I looked dashing in it. Now it was the one I picked every time I could. I checked the coat’s inside pocket again and felt the fifteen smooth black stones rattling around in it. One stone for each person who died in the suit.  Some of the suits had hundreds of stones stuffed in their pockets. The dresses had it easier, each one came with a purse. Tho I’d been told that some of those purses weighed as much as a bowling ball now. Perhaps it was unlucky. Maybe Fate preferred the prettier colors. The Warden liked me in this suit. I’d stick it out. Down the hall outside my cell door, footsteps echoed and I got up and walked to the bars and leaned against them. I couldn’t see who was coming, of course. The Prison curved away from my sight and the bars kept me from looking around. But I could tell who it was. The Warden. You learned real fast the sound of her footsteps. You could barely hear them, but nothing ever seemed to fully overpower them. Like a whisper of a breeze over a stone. When the Warden walked, the sounds of the Prison went silent. Normally there was shuffling of people, cloth against cloth, skin against skin, murmured voices and soft singing that all melded together into a constant white noise. But when the Warden came out all of that went away and the air turned still. The only sound was the Warden’s footstep that slithered down the cells and those of the guards who followed her, the stomp of their feet and the jingle of their keys deafeningly loud in the sudden silence. The Warden came into view wearing a smile for me. I mean, she was wearing a bunch of other things too, but the smile was what always caught my attention first. The Warden was a beautiful woman. Tall and broad-shouldered and she always wore a proper black wool suit that made the white skin of her face and blonde hair pop out of the dim light of the Prison. In the right moment, she just looked like a floating head. Especially at night, when you woke up all the sudden and she was standing outside your bars, smiling kindly down at you in the dark, with her dark blue eyes glowing like a cat's. She always had a smile on her face. Normally it was a soft thing. A barely there curl of her lips that made you think that it was a secretive smile just for you to see.  Now tho, she was beaming at me. Her mouth open and her teeth bright white. It was the most beautiful smile I’d ever seen.   “Hello Miss,” I said, my voice echoing down the Prison like a gunshot, even tho I had spoken as quietly as I could. “Hello, child. It’s your turn to pick.” She said. Her voice was honey and cream. It soothed the fears and calmed the mind and made all the aches and pains of living fade away. She stepped to the side a little so I could see the guards behind her. Like the Warden, they wore black suits. But their skin was like mine. Well, sort of.  We were all different colors of human, not that it mattered in here. Their skin showed imperfections and the effects of living a life under the sun. The Warden’s was perfectly white. Next to the Warden, all of us looked the same kind of dirty and worn. That didn’t seem to matter to her tho. She still smiled for me. The guards held between them a black silk bag. Big enough to fit a human head into and with a drawstring holding it closed. The bag was bulging with small round shapes that dented the sides and stretched the fabric. At the Warden’s nod, the guards pulled the bag open and held it up to where I could reach into it. In my haste, my hand shot out of the cell door to grab what was inside but the Warden’s hand intercepted mine. Her hand is bare, and the skin the same color as her face. I never noticed how different the skin on other people’s face and hands were until I met the Warden for the first time.  Then, of course, everyone’s invisible imperfections became instantly apparent. The same happened to anyone who met the Warden. And right now the perfect skin of her perfect fingers was brushing mine, the long and delicate black painted nails of her fingers ever so slightly scratching my wrist. “Hold on. You should know. You are only the fifth person to choose today. Everyone before you drew white. As you can see, there are still many people who need to draw today.” She glanced at the bulging bag still carrying a few hundred stones. “You should not get your hopes up. I do so hate it when my children are disappointed.” “Y-yes Miss.” I stuttered. Damnit. I hate when I stutter in front of the Warden. I sound like an idiot.  “I’ll try not to be disappointed, Miss.” “Very well. You may continue.” The Warden withdrew her hand and waved for me to continue. Much more under control, I reached into the bag and felt around. The stones were round and smooth, about the size of peas. They rattled against each other and my fingers with little clicks and clacks as I tried to feel for something different about them. Some minor change in the way they felt that would tell me which was the one I wanted. There was no tactile difference, of course. There never was. Even so, I felt around desperately while the Warden watched me with knowing eyes, unblinking, until I finally pulled one out. White. “I’m sorry, child.” The warden’s voice rang with some of the disappointment that had to be on my face. My shoulders dropped and I nearly lost the ability to stand as all the strength went out of my knees. Not again. The little white stone shone bright in my hands as I fought the tears back from my eyes and looked up at the too kind face of the Warden and tried to give her a smile. “Next time, Miss.” “Next time, my child.” The Warden’s smile melted back down to that small secret smile she always wore as she pulled the cell door closed and she turned to walk away with her guards, off to the next person in line. I shuffled to my too short bed at the other end of my too long cell as I listened to the Warden’s gliding footsteps grow quieter and quieter. I placed my new white pebble on the sill with its brothers and sisters, identical to them in its gleaming failure. Maybe it was the suit. Maybe I was just cursed to be here forever. Never to move on. “Perhaps, child, we should try again.” The Warden’s voice said from the front of my cell. “Perhaps Fate isn’t done with you, today.” I turned so fast the bones in my back popped. The Warden stood just as she had before, slightly to the side of the two guards who held the black silk sack with is drawstring already open, in front of an open cell door. I rushed forward, almost tripping in my haste to reach the Warden. I drew up short tho and forced myself to breathe. To be calm. To have the dignity the Warden always possessed. To be worthy. Not just a grasping child. “Once more, child.” The Warden whispered, reaching out to cup my cheek in a hand that seared my flesh. “Once more.” I reached again into the bag, my eyes locked on the Warden’s, not scrabbling around or trying to cheat Fate. Just picking the first stone that came to my fingertips and pulling it out of the bag. I didn’t even look down at it, at first. I didn’t want to be the first to break eye contact. But the brilliant smile came back to the Warden’s lips and I knew what I would see when I finally pulled my gaze away and looked down at my hand. A little black stone. “Well done, child.” The Warden purred. “Well done, indeed.” I stared down at the little black stone for a moment. It was mirror shiny and I could see myself, distorted and drawn out, in its round surface. The black of it was deep, deeper it seemed that the ones already in my pocket. And it looked like it held something deeper within it. A trick of the light probably, but that little stone was, for that brief moment, the center of my universe. The sign that my time had finally come. I tore my eyes away from it and looked back into the smiling eyes of the Warden. She reached out and took my hand in hers. Her skin was fever warm against mine as she folded her fingers around my palm. “Come along.” She said and pulled me out of my cell as I slipped the little stone into my inner coat pocket to join the others. The Warden pulled me away from my cell, towards the Gallows. Towards eternity.

I’ve never been so happy.