#i think if there was one more drawer they wouldn't look as huge

[freaky-flawless]

Well, I wasn't able to find any cute plastic drawers, but I did manage to snag this from my work. It's probably a tad too big to be considered "doll scale" but it's perfect for storing so many doll accessories. I'm so excited to paint it!

And a Gen 3 Cleo for scale.

Id in Alt!

[sunderwight]

Shen Yuan with a Luo Binghe dakimakura is great but sometimes I stop and think about how a role reversal would have looked (i.e. Binghe as the reader who transmigrates in, Shen Yuan as the fictional character he was obsessing over) and oh my god. Fan Binghe who grew up with chronically online geek culture would have been next level in the absence of an actual, physical Shen Yuan/SQQ. Fan Binghe would have owned everything. He probably would have had to commission it all himself, either because the novel wasn't popular enough for the level of desired merch or because the mainstream commercially produced products were too cheap or flimsy or inaccurate for his specifications or probably both. Perfect hand fan recreations. Replica Xiu Ya (it's an actual sword) hanging on his wall. Fanart both done in a classical style (as in, 'what Shen Qingqiu might actually have hanging on his walls') as well as a variety of character portraits and erotic art zines. Printed and hand-bound copies of his favorite fanfics. Somewhere in China there's an amateur bookbinder who is making BANK off of this obsession, producing the most high level gorgeously bound copies of the filthiest smut and fluffiest hurt-comfort teacher/student fics.

Luo Binghe would be controversial in fandom because he is just as nitpicky and wank-y as Shen Yuan, with an extra dose of turning up in the comments sometimes to act like a jealous/possessive boyfriend accusing writers of being a little TOO lustful towards his unlikely waifu, but on the other hand he is rich and he will pay through goddamn nose for anything and everything that caters to his preferences. So a solid chunk of the fan creators just do things they think he'd like because they want in on the cash cow, while much of the rest of the fandom hates his guts because they feel like he hijacked everything with his own fanon and headcanons and obsessions. Shen Yuan isn't even that popular! Most of the rest of the fandom is kind of down on him as a cliche clueless danmei protagonist, they're all there for the score of blueballed love interests. Beautiful Liu Qingge and darkhorse Shang Qinghua and mysterious, tortured Yue Qingyuan and whatever the hell is going on with his evil doppelganger, Shen Jiu. Luo Binghe doesn't ever commission Shen Yuan with any of them, though! He's always solo, or maybe with a faceless tentacle monster or something!

It gets weird. There are probably Woman Buying Wonder Bread-esque memes about Binghe's highly specific kink commissions. On the other hand, Luo Binghe comes down harder than the actual artists on unsanctioned reposts because he commissioned Shen Yuan in that sexy lingerie fondling a really huge sword and it's not just for anyone to go around putting that up on whatever website they please!

He would own several dakimakura and they would arguably be more normal than a lot of the rest of his collection, is what I'm saying. He'd have them in different poses and seasonal outfits and versions that were acceptable for company and ones that had to get tucked into a drawer under the bed every morning because they were for Binghe's eyes only. And it wouldn't even just be the sexy ones, but also the ones where Shizun looks soft and fond and gentle and affectionate. The man was definitely working his way up to commissioning a lifelike Shen Yuan sex doll when the universe did absolutely everyone a favor and yeeted him into a transmigration scenario.

[reverieblondie]

Finding the Tiefling Bachelors Smut

A/N: I really hope everyone enjoys these hcs. Now these are just my ideas if you have ideas or things you feel like should be added please share! I would love to hear what you think! Huge shout out to @f4iryt3a for letting me use their Cal screenshot! I really appreciate it!

Warnings: 18+ MDNI, fem!reader

Rolan: Scholarly romantic, who endeavors to seek experience outside his books

Now I love the idea of Rolan accidentally finding smut/erotica. That dork would get embarrassed so quickly, but I know he would be intrigued as the new master of Razamaths tower. Rolan, of course, has made it his mission to quickly understand all the tomes and books found in its grand libraries. Through his cataloging, he discovered that not all the books are necessarily history books or grimoires, but there is a collection of books that are stories. Needing to flip through for a rough summary of the story quickly, it's when he scans the pages and pauses…

Ardent eyes trail over her shivering skin. His lips come over to caress her body, his hands sliding up her belly towards her breast. Rough fingers pinch and twist at her sensitive buds, making her tremble with a breathy moan. All while his lips trail down lower and lower…biting softly, licking down her mound. Her skin is like silk against his fevered tongue, and no doubt the lower he wonders, the sweeter the taste… 

"And to think you thought me intolerable…now look at you, love. Panting like a bitch for my tongue…" 

Rolan slams the book closed, his face burning a bright crimson hue. Now, Rolan isn't dumb; he knows what smut is, but he's never actually read it before…And now, as he keeps looking through the books near this one…it seems Rolan has acquired a bit of a collection. He keeps the collection of his newly acquired smut in a locked drawer on his desk.  

Now, on late nights, while he's been in his office for hours, his back is tense, and his neck and shoulders are filled with knots. He needs to let out all this unreleased tension, so his hand wanders down to that locked drawer to finish reading that last chapter… 

The book has been discarded but not forgotten as it lies on the desk. Rolan's breath is labored as he is hunched over his desk, feverishly fisting his cock, whimpering, and throwing his head back as he lets the images flash in his mind. Doe's eyes stare up at him, his hand with a tight fist of their hair…their tongue rolling and lapping at his ridges, tail rubbing their wet sex as he approaches his high. Fuck How he wished it wasn't his hand but their mouth eagerly sucking him, desperate to take all of him. Rolan's thoughts spur him on more, your nails digging into his tights, your throat so fucking tight, just like he is sure your pussy is. And where would you want in? Your gorgeous face? Your breasts? Or would you swallow?

Rolan's hips buckle faster, his loose hair sticking to the sheen of sweat on his neck as he lets out a groan. He would give you all of it; he would make sure to show you everything he could do, how he would study your body just to get you to cum. How he would remember every moan, every tremble, and the way you feel wrapped around so tightly, your sweet voice trembling all those words he dreams you would say.  That's when he feels that wave rushes over him, his legs tremble, and a whimper "ah, a-h!" leaves his lips. Rolan has to brace his hand on the desk as he cums in fast spurts in his hand. Catching his breath, he looks at his mess… "Zurgan…" 

You and Rolan are friends, but you two still manage to argue most days, and you wouldn't like it any other way. Something about that grumpy attitude just makes your head spin. You want to get under more than just his skin; getting under him would be ideal. It's good that you're patient because you're just waiting for the snap where this teasing finally pays off, and he becomes yours. 

You find yourself waiting for Rolan to ask about some magical artifact you found. Honestly, you could care less; you just want an excuse to talk to him and tease him. Unfortunately, you must wait for him…might as well snoop a little. And what do you find in your snooping? A locked desk drawer, intriguing…with a trick you picked up astarion you get it opened to see books? 

Oh….smut books…with a clear theme, enemies to lovers; it looks like Rolan likes to argue as much as you do…you can work with this. 

Rolan walks through the door, "Okay, what do you have for me?" His voice catches as soon as he sees you sitting on his desk (something he says he hates), watching you read through his smut. 

You flick your eyes up to him, "Rolan… I never took you as a smut reader; I would think the Great Master would be too busy…" Rolan approaches you quickly and tries to snatch the book from you, but you hold it behind yourself, not making it easy for him. 

"Hasn't anyone ever taught you about privacy!" He stands right in front of you now, his flushed cheeks on full display for you. "Why are you embarrassed?" you taunt; Rolan sighs irritatedly as he struggles for the book. His body leaning in so close, his chest brushing against yours, his hips between your spread legs, his face getting so close to yours. Rolans is so desperate to get the book he doesn't realize how close he is. 

"Someone needs to teach you proper decorum!" his voice grumbles. "Is that an offer…" Rolan pauses as he hears you whisper in his ear; he turns to face you, his face already so close your noises brush together. Rolan swallows as his eyes flick from your lips to your eyes. " You're teasing me," he says lowly, dropping the book behind you; you wrap your arms around his neck. "Not unless you want me to." 

Rolan lets out a shaky breath before he places his hands on your hips, guiding you to wrap your legs around him. "Must you always have a comeback every time?" 

"What? I thought you liked my smart mouth. Perfect for arguing." Rolan gently lays your body down against his desk, his body over you, making your breath quicken, and your arousal ruins your panties with want. "How about I put that mouth to better use?" 

You two don't miss a moment to start stripping on one another. "What use? Oh, great master Rolan?" Rolan smiles and leans his now bare chest down, his lips pressing hungrily against yours. Before you can slip in your tongue, he pulls back, relishing in the whine you give from missing his lips. "Like making you moan my name." -Damn that cockiness… 

The next few moments are a blur of sloppy kisses, sharp bites to your neck, and the feeling of his hot tongue tracing over your nipples, making your thighs clamp tighter around his waist in a whine. Rolan eggs you on to say his name as his textured cock runs slowly up and down your wet sex. His body shudders with a groan from the feeling of your slick all for him. 

Rolan slides into you, whimpering along with you as you finally moan his name, "Rolan~" you can't help but arch yourself as he pumps into you deeper and deeper with every thrust. The more he rocks in you, the rougher he gets, as his nails dig into your ass, lifting your lower body off the bed as you keep clamping down on him from the praise he rewards you.

His cock hitting your G Stop, you feel yourself squeezing down on him as his hazy eyes look down at you with a lazy smirk; he's read enough to know what's happening to you, "Oh? About to cum? Come on… Don't hold back, cum for me."

It hits you like a wave making your whole body tremble as your orgasm on his cock, with a scream of his name. Rolan is quick to silence you with a moan of his own as he leaves a rough kiss on your lips. 

Zevlor: An Experienced Romantic

Okay, but can we all imagine Zevlor's shirtless body littered with scars and a nice set of reading glasses low on his nose as he reads some smut/erotica. (Ugh, the dream!) Zevlor, our oldest of the bachelors, has seen his fair share of smut; back in the day, it wasn't odd for some of the guys to hide erotica under their bunks. Though their books were quite different from Zev's. Sadly, those books have been lost to time and the descent. Maybe it was curiosity or the fact that a certain someone has been making his heart race every time they say his name. Now, here he is in the romance section of the library, trying to find one of those old books he used to own. Unfortunately, he only sees books he's not familiar with, so on a whim, he opens a random book…  

If someone walked by, it would tarnish her reputation. A high blood in the gardens this late with a man will surely cause gossip. Especially with her legs spread so wide and her guard positioning his cock so deep in her. Her soft voice moaning so heavenly, only causes his cock to throb more. He's meant to be guarding her…If anyone finds out… She's too important, too perfect to be with a man like him…

"I love you." Her voice, like sweet honey, draws him to hold her tighter, to rut in deeper. He drags his lips across her slick skin, tongue lightly licking the sweat from her neck. Finally, he reaches her ear, "Darling flower…I love you more than you can possibly know…" She clenches and flutters with a whimper, and his hips start to move faster…

Zevlor ended up checking out that book, along with three others the lady behind the counter recommended for him. It turns out they had similar tastes…He made sure to rush home so nobody saw what he had, and Zevlor made sure to put the books in a safe place…in his dresser drawer. 

It's another one of those sleepless nights. His eyes just won't seem to close, and his body won't relax. Maybe he should read a few chapters in his new book…just until his eyes get heavy…

Zevlor can't help but grunt as he feels his balls twitch, begging himself to stroke his girth faster, but Zevlor is patient… he knows what his body can take, so he continues his slow build. Zevlor spits on his other hand to lube his cock, making it slip faster within his hand. His grunts get louder as his hand moves faster, building up to his release. Zevlor shuts his eyes, focusing on the approaching wave of pleasure, his thoughts immediately going to you. Your body is bouncing beautifully as you ride the old hellrider. Gods, he wants to talk you through it and be your guide to your sweet pleasure before he fills you up. How he would dig his hands into the soft plush of your hips to help roll you deeper, cooing softly to you as you begin to babble, your pleasure starting to build to its peak. Gods, how he wants to hear your voice trembling his name… Zevlors hips start to roll at the thought of your snug cunt and your sweet voice chanting how it's too much and how you're coming to cum. The thought of your cum coating him is enough for his cock to throb as he lets his cum shoot against his abdomen. Zevlor sighs coming back down from his high. As he cleans himself up, he wonders, would you clean him up? Perhaps with your tongue? Zevlor shakes his head and chastises himself for the lewd thought. 

You and Zevlor developed a strong bond after everything; you two were supported by each other through getting past everything. Even though Zevlor decided to retire to a small farm on the city's outskirts, you two kept in touch through letters and visits. Part of you wishes that Zevlor would one day invite you to stay at his farm with him permanently…though you are unsure if that is just a silly dream of a lovesick girl… 

During one of your impromptu visits to Zevlors farm, you were helping him wrangle the goats, it turns out Philp the Ram is not a fan of yours… So that is how you found yourself crashed into the water trough after running from a grumpy goat. Zevlor was a slew of apologies as he helped you from the water and told you that you could borrow some clothes from him while yours dries. So, while you were looking for a shirt in his drawers, you found a book? Maybe a peek wouldn't hurt…

Turns out that Zevlor is quite the romantic…maybe it's time you confess…but you need to have a plan…

Zevlor was done setting up the tea, but you still hadn't emerged from his bedroom. Perhaps nothing fits you, right? Or maybe you are embarrassed? Zevlor sits pondering for a few minutes before he decides to walk to the room and check on you. You hear his heavy footsteps before you hear his Knock. "Tav? Are you alright?” With a deep breath, you tell yourself it's now or never. "Zev? I'm fine, but could you ... come in, please?"

Zevlor, never one to deny a request from you, opens the door; when he sees you, he thinks his heart stops at the sight of your bare thighs sitting on his bed in his favorite mauve shirt. Then he sees the book on his dresser, and his face turns an impossibly deeper shade of red. Great, you think he's an old pervert. Zevlor is about to explain when you cut him off, patting the spot beside you on the bed. He watches your face blush, "sit with me?" Zevlor sits beside you. The tension is thick in the air as both your minds reel, Zevlor panicking that you think he's a gross pervert, while you are working the courage to make your next move ... something romantic to impress him.

"About the book I-" It was so quick .... but you forget Zevlor was a paladin, a well-trained one at that. So when you turned to kiss his full lips, Zevlor caught your face between his hands. His eyes widen in surprise as he looks at your squished cheeks and puckered lips. Your face reddened, "I'm sorry, I was trying to be romantic... I should have asked to kiss you.” You manage to tremble out through your squeezed lips ...His eyebrows furrow and a slight laugh leaves him “you... Want to kiss me?” He lets go of your head, and it's your turn to laugh. “That and more... if you're willing?" 

Zevlar was definitely willing, willing to run his hands over your soft body, while you do the same to his hardened one, tracing his scars with tender kisses as you sang sweet praises into his crimson skin. His Kisses were so soft as your lips pressed together, slowly building up your hunger for more.

It could have been minutes, hours, hells, even days as you two explored each other's bodies. "Slow ... ride it slow ..." his deep voice whispers in your ear as you slowly roll your hips ."Beautiful ... look at you ...” His lips return to kissing a bruise to your neck as you look into the mirror. Your legs spread wide over his thighs, one of his hands on your hip as the other is wrapped around your waist, holding your front as steady as possible as he thrust So slowly into your drooling cunt. You can see your arousal dripping down his ridged cock as he moves it through your snug cunt, stretched so taut for him. Your hands are holding onto Zevlor for dear life as he molds your insides to his shape.

Zevlors pace steadily builds as your insides start to clench on him tighter, and your cooing gets higher pitched. He smiles and meets your eyes in the reflection as he slips his hot fingers to your twitching clit, rolling over it in quick circles So desperate to watch his lovely Tav squirt all over his girth again.

What could be more romantic than watching the one you care for come undone on you?

Dammon: A lover of erotica through and through

It is canon that Dammon likes smut, which inspired this whole thing. Damon isn't one to shout out from the rooftops what he enjoys reading, but he isn't shy about it, either. He enjoys reading smut/erotica, and he isn't going to be embarrassed about that. He finds that his favorite works are Bondage and Corruption Kink-based. Sure, the stories are undeniably hot, but the trust, the communication shared between two people engaging in that level of intimacy he's utterly addicted to…and his library will only grow. Still, he always returns to his rarer favorites…

His hand is cold compared to the burning flesh of her ass. She leans into the touch, losing her grip, but that only earns her a swat that furthers the rosy flesh to a fiery blush…" keep holding your ankles.." his voice is stern, and she wishes he would talk to her for hours like this, She grabs her ankles tighter mumbling a soft apology. He smiles and kisses down her spine in approval, "Good girl. Now, what's your safe word?" She feels his hand sliding across her ass, the tightening in her gut coiling further. "L-lavender…" she can't help but tremble, feeling his hand spread her blushing cheeks. "When do we say that word?" she's fully spread to him now, feeling dizzy in anticipation. "If-if I'm feeling overwhelmed, hurt, or just ready to stop." 

He muses at her, bent over, ready for him; he runs his oiled fingers over the metal plug keeping his eyes on her tight entrance…he feels his cock throb from the rush, she wants to slam himself into her ass, but he calms himself with a breath. "Very good, now I'm going to put the plug in, remember to breathe and that it will be cold…"

Dammon only occasionally has guests in his small house, so he has never felt the need to hide his books. So what does he do? He proudly displays them on his bookshelf, rotating out his favorites for a nice reread on his nightstand. 

No matter how many times he might read this book, it always excites him. After a long day of pounding away at scorching hot metal it can get a person tightly wound up…and what's better than an excellent book to help wind you down after a long day…

Turns out that winding down is not what his body had in mind for him tonight. It started off as it usually does, his hand lazily stroking his cock, while he read from his book, but as he kept reading, he couldn't help but think about when he saw you last, bright smile, tight trousers, and your shirt barely containing your breast. You always looked like a vision, and he wouldn't mind getting his mouth on if you only asked. Dammons thoughts go to you bent over his anvil as he pounds into your warm heat, his hands keeping your wrist behind your back as you moan for more to show you all he knows. Dammons bites his lip at the thought, continuing to ram his cock into the crease of his pillow folded between his legs. His hand is not enough, and neither is the pillow, but if he thrusts fast enough, he can almost trick himself. It's your plush thighs he's ramming against. Dammon lets out deep moans as he gets closer, his cock weeping at the tip as he thinks of how deep he could go… how he could explore all of you for him to devour. Gods, to feel you cum all over him, to demand more from you till your body shakes from overstimulation. The pleasure he knows his rigid cock could give you. The surge of his orgasm washes over him as his cum shoots into his pillow with a low groan at the instant relief. Dammon throws his pillow off the bed as he catches his breath, so much for relaxing…

After the end of everything, it only makes sense that you would keep in touch with Dammon; every good hero needs a good blacksmith, and Dammon is yours. He was always so reliable and fun to talk to. It only makes sense that you were running his way whenever your sword or armor was nicked. You two slowly boned and found yourself spending hours just sitting and talking to him, telling him your adventures while Dammon just smiled and worked. Watching Dammon work was also an enjoyable experience; he was always so passionate about what he did… you wonder if he's as passionate in other ways

Dammon had told you to come by his place to pick up your weapons, which he was repairing. Having to do some last-minute things, he had set tea out for you and had you wait in his quaint little home. You waited and waited, but he was just taking so long, so you decided to walk around. While you were walking around, you saw Dammon's bookshelf and looked to see if you two shared the same taste in books…

As soon as you picked up one of the books and started to read it, you just couldn't stop. You didn't know if it was shocking, curiosity, or interest ... but what you were reading was so intense, and you just couldn't help how your thighs were pressing together to help ease your growing arousal. "Enjoying the book ?" his voice chimed, making you jump. Slamming the book closed and trying to stumble out an apology, Dammon just looks at your increasingly flushing face, and his smile grows.

Finally, Dammon gently places his hand on your lips, his face completely unfazed as his calm voice asks, "Want me to show you my favorite parts? "- How could you refuse?

What turned into him reading them to you led to you reading it yourself as Dammon ideally played with your hair as he watched you; he Turned to you, finally sharing in a passionate kiss, to where you are now ...

Both of you stripped down to your underwear, straddling Dammons thigh as he leaves slow, sloppy kisses on the column of your neck, "We will start slow...to show you …"

Your hands are holding on tightly to his broad shoulders as his hands slide down your waist to squeeze your hips. His bright eyes take in your blush as he asks if you're okay if you're ready. With a shy yes, you two start as he starts to guide your hips to grind on his thigh; the feeling of your clit rubbing against him makes warm pleasure rush down your spine to spread through you. Dammon just watches your beautiful face contort to the pleasure, listening to your soft moans and trembling Whines, his cock growing stiff as the arousal drips from your panties to leak on his thighs. God, he wants to trace it with his fingertips and have you taste yourself, but he contains himself, telling himself to go slow with you. Dammon moves his hands up to your breast, groping you softly as you continue your soft grind.

You keep rocking back and forth, feeling the tightness in your stomach as you gradually build your pace. From how wet you feel. Dammon knows you are so close to that high, so he decides to help you more. His left hand lowers your bra as his lips kiss your perked nipples before his tongue carefully traces the sensitive skin, making you moan so softly. Then With his right hand, he slips two fingers through your soaked panties to play with your swollen little clit. The feeling of his rough fingertips toying and then pinching softly is enough for that coil to break within you as you squirt on his lap.

"I'm so sorry …" You say in a gasp, but Dammon only shushes you as he holds you to his chest, his expert fingers guiding you through your orgasm. "You have nothing to apologize for ... that's so beautiful, which makes me want you to do it again ... "You whine and bury your face in his neck from his sultry words. Damon can't wait to teach you more things.

Cal: Innocent but wants to learn

There is not enough smut about Cal, which is a shame; he is a cutie and deserves to be included in the Tiefling Bachelor lineup. Cal always thought that there was only one way to get sexual stimulation from a book and those erotic art books people hid in their homes. He had heard of the desire to seek them out. Well, now Cal's grown up, he has needs. It's while Cal is trying to discreetly find one of these books when he comes across smut. Curious why a book like this would be in this section. That is when he figures it out… 

He couldn't help how her strong body roused him. It was an accident coming across her during her bath, but even the warrior jumped to action and could pin him down beneath her foot. He just stared at her bare body, shining in the moonlight as the water dripped down her skin. He swallowed his suddenly dry throat as the need to lick up every drip off her body to quench his thirst, but only if she wished it. How he would be a dog for her… "Why are you spying on me during my bath? Are you an assassin or just a pervert?" His rehearsed lines over why he joined her on her journey evaporate from his mind.

"My lady…lady, I wish to serve your every whim…I wish to be your hand…it would be an honor to travel with a noble hero like yourself…" Her eyes narrow before she swiftly drops down to his prone form…Gods, please don't sit on him and reveal to her his aching erection… "careful with your wording… you could easily end up as a squire… or my chew toy.." he tries to steady his breath… "whatever my knight wishes…" she smiles…this should be an interesting addition to her travels… 

Of course, Cal quickly bought the book and immediately packed it for home as soon as he left the store. As soon as he got to his room after sneaking past his siblings, he needed to find a place to hide it. The last thing he needed was for someone to see that he had this book. So, after a quick scan of his room, he shoved the book underneath his mattress. Nobody will find it there, right?  

Cal was completely immersed in the story; any time he had time off, she was sneaking off to his room to read another chapter or two. Then, late one night, he found that the plot was thickening, and it was starting to stir something within him. Cal springs from his bed and quickly decides to take a cool bath; that should help cool him right…

The bath did little to ease him; all while he was in the bath, his thoughts kept wandering to his book… and you. Now here he is, his fevered skin feeling the sharp bliss of the bathroom's tiled wall against his back, groaning lowly as he fucks his fist. Cal knew it was wrong to think of you this way, your beautiful legs spread open… your hand teasing yourself as your sweet arousal drips more and more. Cal knew he shouldn't be doing this, but that didn't stop him from shutting his eyes tighter, buckling his hips more desperately as he chased his high. All those previous feelings of shame melt away as your sweet voice calls his name, your eyes lidded, telling him to "Watch me, Cal…taste me…" Fuck, his breath picks up as dose his pace mumbling to himself how much he wants you… what he would fo got "Ah, just to taste you… to have you cum on my tongue…" Cal stroked faster, whimpering and moans growing louder at the thought of you pushing him down and sinking your soft cunt onto his cock. The way you would ride him as you screamed for him was the final straw that had his cock spasming, "Fuck, fuck, Fuck!" Cal couldn't help but chant like a prayer as he made a mess over his clean body. Cal looked down at his ruined body, "Dammit… I need to rinse off again…" 

Cal was always a pleasant person to be associated with; your friendship started when he thanked you for helping end a squabble between his siblings. After that, you two kept running into each other. First, he sought you out for combat advice, which made you two have friendly chats. You two both find each other to open up about your troubles with one other. Cal says he admires you and all the incredible heroic acts you have done, but you admire Cal and his cheerful, never-giving-up attitude. The world always seemed just that bit warmer when Cal is near…  

When you saw that Rolan and Lia were out at the tavern without Cal, you were instantly worried about him. They had told you he was not feeling good, apparently, and that immediately made you need to go see him. So, with a key from Rolan, you made your way to the tower to check in on Cal. When you reach outside his door, you hear a sound that makes you worried…   

The air in your lungs ripped from your throat, causing you to let out a gasp as you saw him fisting himself under his blanket. You and Cal locked eyes; he immediately stopped and quickly apologized to explain himself as he was trying to get untangled from his sheets. Poor Cal fell out of his bed, crashing to the floor in a tangled mess of his bedding. Walking over to him, you crouch Where his arm hides his face. "I .. am so sorry ... I ... didn't mean - ""Cal?" Cal Swallows, "Yes ?" You carefully move his arm away so you can look into his eyes. "Do you want me to help you ?" Cal looked up at you with wide eyes before nodding quickly.

Cal's breath was labored as his sweaty hands gripped the sheets as he looked at you in awe. Your hands wrapped around his length as you -Kissed and licked his peddling tip, your eyes watching his adorable face. Then with a final smile and a whisper to relax and enjoy, you start sucking around him, your soft tongue - licking around his sensitive underside making his hip twitch and buckle. Cal thought he must have fallen and cracked open his skull, passing on to the next heavenly realm; how could it be that you, perfect beautiful you, are sitting on your knees eagerly, sucking and slurping on his cock; it just couldn't be real.

Then he felt his cock push to the back of your throat, and he couldn't help from throwing his head back and moaning your name. You relished in the feeling of his trembling as he came in thick spurts down your throat. You had to hold back from laughing as you heard him apologize. Standing up, you smile at his hazy expression and slight smile. You swallowed him down and caressed his cheek, giggling as he pressed frantic kisses on your palm, saying a thousand thank yous. Grabbing his chin, you smile at him as he asks those words you were hoping for. "I .. um. I have never done it, but could I help you ?' Turns out Cal is very good at following directions.

[writingwisterias]

How would the Leon Eras comfort and act when their S/O is on their time of the month?

Hello Anon!

I've done something similar before when I started writing however I have new thoughts! Of course, it's all about Leon ATM so I would love to! Requests are also still open for anymore Era Leon ideas

Warnings: Fluff, Comfort, Periods, Blood, Cramps...basically just the month reg RE2,RE4R,Infinite Darkness,Damnation, RE6, Death Island

I've tried to keep it as a GN!Reader so if I do slip up please let me know!

RE2:

It's the 1990s so the topic is still slightly taboo. Therefore I don't think Leon would know a lot about what to do. Not because he's ignorant or anything just because it's not commonly spoken about.

However, you have been with Leon throughout college so he would have picked up a few things.

He has it written in his little diary, asks you constantly when you predict the next date would be. If it's not regular he would still attempt to keep note just to be helpful

Ask you questions on the different types of products you use and what you use them for.

Would give you space if you need it, or is more than happy to give you cuddles making sure to rub your back or stomach to help soothe the aches.

Has a hot water bottle in his dorm room/bedroom just incase

Large supply of snacks also just in case

Went to go out and buy what you wanted but ended up grabbing a few brands because he was too nervous and forgot

If you warn him about the incoming date he'll surprise you with a packet of your favourite sweets and a small teddy.

RE4R:

He does not freak out about blood, he's have a really shit life he did.

You didn't know about the incoming date and were around his house staying the night when it decided to bless you all with its appearance.

Leon woke up to a wet feeling on his leg from where it was trapped between the two of you.

You had accidentally bled on him.

He didn't freak out, just looked down and put it together. Pulling away from you so he could fix the problem or at least gather the supplies

He turns the shower on letting the water heat up. The fluffiest towel he has warming up on the towel rail.

He comes and wakes you up, his heart softening at your mortifying look.

Reassures you and gathers every item that needs to be washed. He's got experience getting blood out of things so he wouldn't be bothered.

By the time you get out of the shower he's already got the bedding changed, the sofa set up with plenty of snacks and fluffy blankets you insisted he keep at his place.

He's thrown you in one of his shirts and hoodies. Already made a hot water bottle and given you the things you need.

Cuddles you the rest of the night, making sure not to mention what happened to save you from embarrassment or hurting you.

He knows there nothing wrong with it, he's not even bothered in the slightest but periods are a pain and so are the emotions that come with it.

Infinite darkness:

Hear me out, Leon in this era is a giant Snacker. Like I'm talking a whole cupboard dedicated to a wide range. So he's already prepared for that part

Has a small drawer in his bathroom for all your products and actively keeps a check on it to make sure it's topped up

will even make sure your supply at your house is topped up, it's expensive nowadays and he's got the money.

Huge cuddler, like I'm talking he lays in between your legs and on your chest so you wouldn't need a hot water bottle. He runs hot enough to somewhat ease the aches.

Blood doesn't phase him in the slightest so if you do leak, he's got it sorted.

Type of guy to offer his jacket to wrap around your waist in public if he notices

His priority is making sure you are comfortable during it, will get concerned if you seem like you are in too much pain.

Will also try a period simulator and get cocky about it but cries by level 4

Damnation:

It's not that I don't think he would be bothered. I just think he wouldn't really see the big deal.

It happens every month

He would have the basics to help, if you requested something I think he would have it on the fridge or something so he can keep it stocked

Will give you cuddles if you want it

He will try his best to be attentive but also he's going through shit his mind is elsewhere, he's being dragged all over the place so I wouldn't expect a ton of sympathy...after all we've seen the shit he goes through in the film

If however they are really bad one month I think it would snap him into place a little bit and he would pay attention a lot more.

I would go for snack runs for you getting anything that you want

Spoils you in his own way...basically what limited attention he can give you

RE6:

He's more mature now, so I think he doesn't pay attention to it not because he doesn't care but because he's already prepared.

Like I'm talking dad survival level shit. He might as well manufacture the shit.

I would say this is only because again he doesn't know when he can be home to spoil you so he has an emergency kit. Cute idea.

In it, it would have a shirt or hoodie, snacks, products and heating pads.

If he is there.

You aren't moving a muscle, he's all over you. Pampering you.

I think despite the fact he goes through a lot he's more mature to understand that he's not the only one to go through shit.

This era to be cocky and go "heard sex eases cramps"

Lots of cuddles, will watch anything you put on Tv

You are pampered to the heavens.

Vendetta:

I think he would like you having your period but not because he likes you in pain or anything like that.

But it gives him a chance to be helpful and actually do something.

I think he would stop drinking periodically to actually help you out and be there for you.

He doesn't go overboard on supplies, has enough to get you through the month.

Will pick you up snacks and things on the way home from work/bar if he remembers

Probably would bring home a blanket or something as well claiming he thought it looked cosy enough for you.

You probably have like 50 blankets at this point.

Gets upset if the cramps are really bad, I think it would freak him out because he feels helpless.

He's broody but will snap out of it for you.

He's already sad so I think he's a big cuddler but would go the extra mile like being attached to your hip.

He just wants to feel needed and help you out as much as possible or he feels helpless.

Death Island:

The most normal out of all of them.

Like he's not overcrowding going off your exact needs he hopes you would communicate with him.

He would have emergency supplies but if you want a specific one he'll go and get it.

Won't let anyone cook, you are all eating fast food just to make you feel better.

Cuddling all day long...like he can't get enough and won't even let you go and piss.

Insists you don't go to work and then will spend the next hour ranting about how ridiculous it is that women have to work during their time of the month.

Ask Claire for advice if he's unsure about something because he's too shy to ask you. But of course, she'll tell you that he's asked and you find it endearing

Nothing is too big of an ask for him, he'll kiss the ground as you walk. Has no problem doing anything.

[in-som-niyah]

No thoughts just jason todd obsessed with the idea of his girl being pregnant with his baby

Like this man would def be so soft and doting and protective.

Also imaginning how soft sex would be between them at that point cuz he wouldn't want to disturb the baby too much

YESSSSSSSSS

Like if Jason ever felt secure enough to be a father given his ahem... ✨lifestyle✨ he would be sooooo protective of reader like

You were reaching for a jar up in the cupboard of your shared home (Jason waited until you were both settled into a proper home instead of the shitty apartment in Gotham before even thinking of getting you pregnant) before you felt a pair of heavy feet approach you. Before you could finish reaching, a strong hand planted itself at the side of your bump and gently moved you aside, stopping your movements. Annoyed, you look up at the owner of said hand, who had broken his promise of letting you do small things for yourself around the house again. "Jay, I can do it" you pout as you place your chin on his toned chest. Jason smiles down at you and chuckles lightly before using both his hands to rub at your bump. "I know you can princess, I just wanna help" He says back with an equally-adorable pout in his face. "But I told you, I can do things! I'm pregnant, not paralyzed." You chuckled. "It makes me feel useless to be honest" His brows proudly display their displeasure at your statement and his pout vanished. His hands make their way around to rub at your back now, where he knows you've been sore. "No baby, you're never useless. Hell, you could sit in bed all day and make me bring you all your cravings and you still wouldn't be useless." He says matter-of-factly. At this, he plants a kiss on the top of your hairline and rests his chin at the top of your head. "Yeah, but-" You tried to reply, but a cheeky kiss behind your ear stopped you. A gruff 'mmm-mmm' of disproval reverberates from Jason's chest, followed by another kiss on your cheek, then neck, then collar then...

I totally agree he would be into sex during pregnancy (you're so sexy carrying his child but he would be so scared to hurt you since you're so precious to him) especially if its soft and loving!!! Y'all he's a loverboy softie at heart and he just loves you so much and is so thankful that you trust him with raising a kid and caring for you in the process!!!!

I feel like he would avoid sex or sexual contact just to be safe and make sure you're not feeling pressured into being with him since your body is changing in ways truly neither of you really fully understand.

BUT GODDDDDDDD DOES IT DRIVE YOU UP THE WALL

Pregnancy hormones be damned, every flex of his bicep or stretch of his back made you want to climb. him. like. a. fucking. tree.

It was late one night, Jason didn't have patrol (thank the fucking heavens) but he was out running some errands. You were in bed, snuggled in your (his) t-shirt, catching up on some tiktok drama (iykyk) and scrolling through your fyp. Until you came across a gym video of a guy attempting to lift 230lbs. You vaguely remember Jason teasing Dick about how much they both could lift, and it was well over 230lbs, thats for sure. Oh, but Jason's much more muscular, and plus, he's tall. Very, very tall. He's built like an actual brick wall now that you think about it. A tall, muscular, strong, handsome, brick wall. Wetness began to pool at your core thinking about how strong and huge Jason was, and you thought of having a quick session before Jason got home. You knew you should wait for him, but he's been so occupied and distant and careful with you that you didn't have much confidence in his answer if you did in fact ask him to fuck you the way you wanted to be. Out of the locked section of the bottom drawer of your nightstand came a small, yet mighty wand vibrator. Lucky for you, Jason remembered to charge it the last time y'all had some fun. Which was sadly, a while ago. Too horny to dwell in the negative, you press and hold the power button and go to town. The task soon proved difficult since you had a large island of tummy in the way, but you managed to almost get there. Just a bit more pressure and- Thud. The sound of a large bag unceremoniously dropping to the floor ripped you out of your blissful activities. Eyes wide and frantic, you scan the room for anything that looked out of place. 'Maybe something fell?' you thought, but that was quickly put to bed when your gaze meets Jason's clenched jaw and disappointedly folded hands. You flinched when he swiftly crossed the room, forgetting whatever was in the bag at the door. There were more, very important things to attend to. Before you could open your mouth to even try and explain yourself he interjects in an eerily calm way. "Did you cum?" He asks, softly, but his authority is very clear in his tone. "N-no" You answer sheepishly. You were in no mood to try an explain why you felt the need to turn to the mediocre satisfaction of a toy when you had a whole ass sex machine as your husband if he so chose to question you. "hmm thats what I thought, querida." He finished with a nurturing yet pitiful tone. Jason climbs into bed, and crawls on top of you to where you're face to face and his chain is dangling just above your neck. "Just one question" He begins. "Why didn't you tell me you were feeling this way?" You chew your lip. He's been such an amazing husband to you before you got pregnant, and after he found out he upped his game some more. You didn't even know it was possible to be loved like that and you felt bad that you couldn't even control yourself long enough to just appreciate what he's already doing for you. A tear fell down your cheek, which Jason kissed away, and you told him how you felt guilty for asking him for sex, since the reason why he wasn't driving you into the bed was a sincere and honest fear he had. You knew he couldn't stand to hurt you, so he would much rather stop completely than take a chance. "my poor girl, I haven't been doing my part have I?" He murmurs just before capturing your lips in his. You melt into him, your hands flying up to touch him, hold him, feel him in places you haven't in so long. In between the marks on your neck and upper chest, Jason pauses briefly to apologize, as if your skin was cross with the lack of contact. "p-please" you whimper in a small voice when his hands begin to grip your hips firmly. "I know, I know amorcita. Let daddy make it up to u hm? I'll take care of you this time. Promise it'll be worth it."

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

a/n: GODDDDD i wanna climb him like a tree holy shit this is so sexy

like the way hes so soft and gentle just makes me explode

best fucking ask bro tysm <333333

[allllium]

andrewgarfield!peterparker x reader where reader has the biggest crush on peter but doesn't know he's spiderman? angst to fluff please!

have lovely day/night <3

Unrequited (I've always loved you)

~ Sorry this took so long and it's a lot longer than I usually write but I love how it turned out <3

~ Fluff, hurt/comfort?, Angst, WC: 2,274

~ Your best friend has a secret

Being in love sucks. Being in love with someone that's not in love with you sucks even more. But that's fine. Everything's fine. Nothing can go wrong when you're in love with your best friend.

Peter looks over at you as you repeatedly tap your pencil against your notebook, very obviously not doing the homework. You're sitting on his bed while he's across from you at his desk. Ignoring the tap from your pencil, you look around his room, lost in random thoughts, well thoughts mostly of him.

"You alright?" He asks, soft voice coming from a few feet away.

"Ugh, just bored." You slightly whine. Standing from the bed to look more around his nerdy room. All the walls are covered with different things that you don't really understand.

He just nods and returns to his work. You admire him from your stance behind him. The way his fluffy hair falls softly in front of his face or the way he's dressed so casually but still looks so good. You don't understand how one person can be so perfect. Not to mention the way he's stronger than he looks, allowing him to maintain his lanky figure that fits him so well.

Out of your boredom you start rummaging through all the stuff he has lying on his bookshelf, which leads to opening all the drawers you can find. You continuously look over at him to see if he has a problem with what you're doing but he makes no move to stop you even as he watches what you're doing.

As you're digging around you eventually reach his closet, you're a little hesitant because you don't wanna press your luck too far but what are best friends if not nosy. His closet is small and way overcrowded with clothes you swear he's never worn. You wouldn't doubt that his aunt tried to sneak them in to help him fit in more.

Something catches your eye as you go to shut the door. You wouldn't think anything of it but the red color of it deeply contrasts the rest of the closet. It looks like fabric but it's not hanging up with the rest of his clothes. Instead it's in a box on the floor, only a piece of it visible as if he rushed to put it away.

Peter shoots out of his chair when you bend down towards the box. He grabs your arm and pulls you away so he can quickly shut the door.

"What was that?" You ask in suspicion. Peter's reaction is one you haven't seen from him before.

"Nothing." He tells you, a serious look falling over his face. He pushes you a little further so he can stand between you and the door.

"Peter, c'mon." You deadpan. All the embarrassing things it could possibly be run through your head. Nothing you think of would warrant this much of a reaction.

"No. Leave it alone." He doesn't exactly snap at you but it's definitely on the line of it.

"Okay then. I'll go now." You tell him quickly. You gather up your stuff and look at him one more time before leaving, his gaze is focused on the floor in front of him. Shaking your head in even more confusion, you leave.

You don't see him for the rest of the day. Or the next day. Or even the day after that. You get the feeling he's avoiding you. It's a mystery why you think to yourself in a sarcastic tone.

Of course you see him around school but he always does more than necessary to avoid looking at you. At this point you're determined to know what was in that box. Is it a huge violation of his privacy, yes. Do you care, no, not one bit. If he doesn't want you to violate his privacy, why would he hide things from you? Make it make sense.

It's not that hard to get access to his closet considering Aunt May will let you in the house will no explanation. After school you walk right in, she gives you a bright smile and continues whatever it is she's doing. Not one question.

You have no problem going into his room, he's probably off skateboarding or whatever else nerds do in their free time. Once you get your hands on the box, that he's now shut completely, you have second thoughts. Maybe it really is wrong of you to invade his privacy like this? Oh well you open it anyway.

Holy shit. You don't even know what to think as you pull out a spiderman costume. You think, well hope, it's a costume because you don't know what to think about your best friend being the New York superhero.

How? When? How again? Is this why he's so strong? You've been friends with Peter long before Spiderman showed up which means he chose not to tell you. Is it because he doesn't trust you? Or maybe he doesn't like you as much as you like him? That stings.

Now you know why he was so adamant you leave it alone. But how is this even possible? He swings from buildings and fights giant lizards. How are you supposed to believe that your Peter can be doing that?

You quickly put the suit back in the box and hurry out of his room. As you rush down the stairs, he's coming up, running into his shoulder halfway down. You know he immediately knows but you keep running anyway.

He doesn't even stop to explain as he continues up the stairs. You walk home and wonder if there's any possibility it was just a Halloween costume.

Your phone rings over and over and over. It's obviously Peter. It's only nine in the morning on a Saturday so you have no plans of getting up or moving enough to answer your phone.

You're guessing he's mad. He should be. Now that you know what it is you can think a little clearer and you understand that maybe you should've respected his wishes a little more.

You don't answer the phone because you know he'll be mad and you don't want him to ever be mad at you. Or he'll be sad and you don't want that either. But of course, above all, you don't want to admit to him that you were wrong.

Once you finally get to moving out of bed, you spend a lot of time reading articles on Spiderman and trying to figure out how he does what he does. Now that you know Peter is Spiderman some of it makes more sense but all the other stuff makes even less sense.

Your phone rings a couple more times and you get a dozen messages but eventually they all stop. You focus your time on reading every single thing you can about him. From everything about the giant lizard to saving cats from trees and catching falling women.

"That was an interesting day." A voice comes from behind you. You jump out of your seat and turn to face them. A not so flattering shriek leaves your mouth and your heart beats faster than you thought possible.

"Peter, what the fuck." You gasp. Heart still racing and breathing slightly heavy. You take a moment to look at him, taking notice of his messy hair and the fact that he's in the Spiderman suit. Obviously he looks insanely hot but very very angry.

"Oh what? Did I invade your privacy?" He mocks, throwing down the mask you're just noticing was in his hand.

"I mean you came through the window so I'd say so." You whisper, not sure what you're actually supposed to say.

"I guess we're even now huh." He takes a seat on your bed and you almost want to say something about outside clothes on your bed but you don't have that right.

"Yeah I'd say so." A simple shrug of your shoulders has him rolling his eyes.

"That's the second time you've said that."

"I don't know what else to say."

"I wonder why." He mutters, more to himself than anyone else.

"Were you ever gonna tell me?" You ask, hurt covering your voice.

"I wanted to." You sit next to him on your bed.

"No you didn't. You should've told me."

"I don't see how it's any of your business." The setting sun shining in through your window glows on his face. You can see every detail of both him and his suit.

"Because we're friends. I don't know, maybe it wasn't."

"Really? You're gonna play this card." He stands in front of you.

"What card, Peter?" You almost yell back.

"You! Acting all sad and betrayed, trying to pretend you don't know if we were ever real friends." He's yelling now too.

"What does that even mean!? I'm allowed to be upset when you keep something like this from me!" You stand up, not liking the way he was looking down at you.

"It's none of your business." He enunciates every word to get his point across.

"Fine. It's not my problem. I shouldn't have done it. Now get out of my room."

He stares at you for a full minute. Like he's not done with whatever he wants to say or maybe he just wasn't expecting you to snap. Either way he respects your wishes, waiting only a moment more to leave out your bedroom window.

The next week rolls around very similar to the last. You go to school, you go home. Peter still avoids you, and what looks like everyone else. Throughout the whole week you don't see him talk to Gwen or anyone else he usually hangs out with.

It's not until Thursday that Gwen actually comes up to talk to you. Usually you would talk everyday but she's been more than busy with her band.

"Hey, are you alright?" She asks, coming up behind you as you put stuff back in your locker.

"Yeah, why?"

"I don't know Peter's being weird and all mopey so I thought he finally kissed you or something." She sighs so freely like she didn't just say something like that.

"What do you mean finally? Why would he kiss me?" She looks panicked. Clearly she wasn't supposed to say something but everyone knows Gwen isn't someone that keeps secrets very well.

"Fuck." She turns around and starts walking off. You slam your locker shut and follow her.

"No, no, no, no. Gwen, you get back here."

"I can't, I wasn't supposed to say that." She starts walking through people and down random halls.

"Gwen, you better get talking or I'm telling Peter what you already told me." That makes her stop in tracks. She turns to you with a look of both disbelief and betrayal.

"You're not even on speaking terms!"

"We'll go on speaking terms outta spite."

"Fine, I'll tell you but you can't tell anyone." She points her finger at you accusingly.

"Who would I tell?"

"Peter may be an insy tinsy bit in love with you."

"Gwen!"

"What? I'm not the one in love with you!"

You take a deep breath while you try to process everything you've learned in the past three minutes.

"I've been trying to get him to admit it to you forever but he didn't want to do it until he told you he's Spiderman." She continues her explanation, not realizing she's yet again saying more than she's supposed to.

"So you already knew he was Spiderman?"

"Fuck." She whines and turns to leave again but this time you let her. It's not her fault Peter didn't trust you. Or that he's in love with you.

"Gwen told me she told you." Peter says, not even a moment after you opened your front door. "And so I guess I don't really have a choice but to explain myself. And I mean that literally because Gwen is giving me no choice." He talks quickly. It sounds like he's trying to say it as fast as possible to get it over with.

"Wanna come in?" You ask, again not knowing what to say. It's funny how all it takes is his presence to make you more nervous than you ever have been.

He walks in hesitantly and doesn't move further than the entryway before he starts talking again.

"I only told her first because I'm not in love with her. I didn't want to tell you because I didn't want it to affect anything, but I didn't want to tell you I was in love with you before I told you that I was Spiderman because it didn't feel right to keep that a secret."

"That makes no sense." You run your hands tiredly over your face. "I mean seriously at least have a good excuse."

"I don't have one. Okay, I don't know why I didn't tell you."

"Then why are you here?"

"Because I love you and I don't want this to ruin anything." He looks down at his feet, breaking the eye contact you were making.

"I love you too but if I was a superhero I'd tell you."

"I know you would. I don't know why I didn't." He shrugs. "Did you just say you love me?"

"Not if it takes you that long to notice." You smile, forgetting about being mad.

"I really am sorry." He says, stepping closer to you.

"So am I." You say, also taking a step closer.

"Can I kiss you?" He asks, closing the space between you.

"Of course." Your smile grows even wider as his lips reach yours.

[reareaotaku]

Maid of the Rich

Inspo: sluttsxphobia [I think they abandoned this idea, but I really like it, so I'm stealing it.] Summary: You were hired as a maid, but the day Miles returns from school, he makes it his mission to make your life a living hell. But one day his idea of you changes, though you wish he'd just continued to hate you Tw: Mean Miles [Obviously], Miles being creepy Taglist: @fxchild, @milesfairchild2, [Make a part 2??]

You groaned as you put the car into park. You did not imagine that this is where your life would be at peak 20; A maid for some snooby rich kids. You turned off the engine and slammed your car door, mumbling under your breath as you walked up to the main doors.

You're met by an older lady who practically gave you a death stare. It wasn't like you wanted to be there either, so you didn't know why she seemed angry. Besides, she was the one who hired you, so she had no right to be upset.

She let you in and showed you around the mansion while explaining to you what you had to do. It was all just small talk and a waste of breath. You already knew what you were supposed to do and you doubted her showing you around will help you remember where everything is. Let's be honest, the place was huge; It'd take you a while to adjust. A part of you was jealous that someone got to live here and enjoy the lavish life of riches- That was until she, the woman showing you around, reminded you to be patient with the kids, because their parents had just died and the eldest had just lost a close companion. Though, the way she said companion made you think she thought the relationship as something else- Something she didn't like.

In your eyes, it seemed she didn't like much of anything. Besides how hard could it be to watch some brats?

---

You slowly walked into the office, before looking around the room. You let out a breath of relief when seeing it was empty. You walked over to a desk and pulled at some cabinets. You were looking for papers on the man who died? You weren't sure what she was, but you needed to know what happened to him.

You groan when seeing the dozens of unmarked papers in the drawers. You hear a noise behind you causing you to freeze. Imagine your surprised when you turned around and their was a teenage boy standing behind you. You practically jumped out of your skin as your nails dug into the desk. The boy was practically hidden in the shadows, which only creeped you out more.

"Who are you?" You finally got out after a while of silence.

"I'm Miles. I live here. Who are you?"

When Mrs. Grose had said 'Kids' you expected young children- Like under the age of 10. But this kid- Teen, Miles, looked like an older teen, maybe a young adult. But, since he was in a school uniform, you assumed he had to be under 18.

"I'm the new maid."

"No shit," He eyes you up and down. "What's your name."

You wanted to give the boy a dirty look, but something in you said that was a bad idea. With his attitude, you could only imagine the two of you wouldn't be getting along. "L/n. My names L/n."

"L/n? That sounds like a last name."

"Good observation."

"What's your first name?"

You ignore him and turn back around towards the desk, fiddling with the papers. Miles glares at your back, annoyed. He takes a step towards you, but you don't pay him any mind. In fact, you turn back around him and pat his shoulder-

"I'll uhh, see ya... Miles." And then you push past him and leave the room.

Oh, yeah, now he was pissed.

---

You could feel his eyes on you. Every move you make, he's watching. It was like he could sense your anxiety about being watch and liked to watch you squirm. You could hear every breath he took and it was starting to get to you.

"You missed a spot."

"What?" You look back at him, confused.

"You. Missed. A. Spot." He points to a spot next to your hand that you had been scrubbing at for a few minutes. It was sticky and stuck to the counter.

You frown at his smirk and rolled your eyes, "Yeah, well, I also wasn't finished."

"I sure hope not, since you did a shitty job."

You felt your fist clench and you took a deep breath, before shaking your head. You grabbed a cleaning bottle before spraying the spot and finally getting it. You smirked and turned to the smartass boy, "There. His majesty now has a clean spot."

He huffs, rolling his eyes, but doesn't respond. You felt satisfied that you had gotten him to shut up. He turns to leave but you quickly call him back.

"Oh, Miles- Uh, just a tiny favor, trying aiming IN the toilet, yeah?"

He frowns deeply, giving you a stinky eye, before tilting his head, "I'll aim on your grave you fucking whore."

You sigh, clicking your tongue, "I'm not to worried. If you can't aim in a toilet, I doubt you'll hit the grave."

"Fuck you, bitch."

"Oh no, the little mean boy called me a bitch. I'm so sad."

"Laugh it up while you can. You won't be here much longer."

You looked at him confused. At first you thought he meant he would get you fired, but a part of you saw it more as a death threat. Though, it was an empty threat, because a part of Miles liked your banter with one another. It was... Nice. Really nice.

---

The garden was nice, much nicer than any place you've ever been. You looked around the many rose bushes that surrounded you. Miss Fairchild seemed to have an eye for pretty flowers. Maybe it was a way to hide the tragedy of the Fairchild family. You sighed, leaning back and pushing your hair out on the fluffy grass. It was so peaceful- Until it wasn't.

"What are you doing?"

You groan when hearing the voice and rubbing your eyes. "You've got to be kidding me," You mumble under your breath.

"Shouldn't you be cleaning? Or something."

"Or something... I'm on break."

"You get breaks?"

"Yeah, it's called Worker's Rights... I think- Well, it's a law."

He walks towards you, before towering over you. He leans his head over you, displeasing you. His face was blocking the sun and right in your line of vision.

"Do you even know what you're talking about."

"Well, I'm working a shitty job for shitty pay, so you tell me if I know anything."

"Shitty job?"

"Yeah, that's what I said. I'm glad you can hear."

"How much do you get paid?" He tilts his head, watching you sit up.

"Enough to come back, I guess. I mean, I haven't quit, so..."

"So, it's not shitty pay."

"I guess not. But no amount of money would make this job bearable."

He doesn't respond and you're thankful. You run a hand through your hair and yawn. You push yourself up and brush off your clothes.

"You should get back to work. Mrs. Grose wouldn't like to see you relaxing. She hates anything fun."

"Yeah, I've noticed..." You turn back towards him, giving him a suspicious look. "You're being weird. Why are you being weird?"

He rubs his chin, giving you a confused look. "Weird? What do you mean?"

"Don't play dumb... You're being nice..."

"Is that illegal?" He asks with an attitude, making you roll your eyes.

"No, but I don't like it. I know you're up to something. I've got my eye on him." You hand gesture the 'I'm watching you' before walking away from him.

---

You kept your eye on the boy, but... Everything was fine. He wasn't ruining your life and wasn't making you feel miserable. In fact, he went out of his way to make your life easier. He'd wash his plate, take out the trash, etc. You wished he'd go back to normal- something you never thought you'd say.

---

Miles stood over your bed, watching you closely. He lightly hums to himself, as he sits on the edge of your bed. He feels it dip, before sighing to himself. You looked so peaceful- Like nothing could hurt you. It was nice to look at. He wanted that; Peace.

His hand felt your body through the blanket. He wished he could touch your bare skin, though this would have to suffice. It wouldn't satisfy him for longer, but for now you were safe.

---

You awoke in the middle of the night feeling strange. You looked around your dark room, but nothing... It's not like you could see though. You hear a bang, causing your eye to turn towards your window. It was just a tree branch. You sigh in relief, before closing your eyes. Doing this, you missed the sound of your door opening and slowly closing.

You didn't sleep for much longer, but this time you were awaken by something more pleasant. It was a nice tune playing throughout the house. You slowly sit up, heading towards the before opening it. You look around the dark halls, deciding to find where the noise was coming from.

You slowly walking down the hall, following the music. You finally stopped in front of a familiar door. The music was still soft, but louder than when you were in your room. You push your ear up against the door, listening. It was nice, beautiful even.

Though, you must have been leaning to hard, because the door pops open, causing you to fall to the floor. You quickly stand up, frozen as Miles turns towards you.

He had known you were out there. He had purposefully played the song that Quint had told him you liked. He planned this.

"Sorry- I uh... Heard you playing."

"Yeah... It's an echoie house."

"Yeah. Uh, you're really good..."

"I know."

You look around the room at the instruments. "Pretty late."

"I guess- Uh, is there something you want, Y/n?"

You quickly shake your head and hands, "No! No, I just heard the music and wanted to see what it was."

"Well, if you close the door and come in, I can play you something."

"Play me something?"

"Yeah. That's what I said. Glad you can hear."

[misdeliria]

for all the hoes (respectful) that wanted part 2 and were so patient. I was stressed about the pressure to make it perfect but hopefully it's good enough. lol

fyi: cursing | @sarahlovesseb ily 💗

part 2 of cupid's chokehold -> bkg's turn to confess

Fight or Flight (1.7k)

Recent News: Favorite Crime-Fighting Duo Hiding Secret Relationship?

Usually, Katsuki wouldn't glance twice at the tabloids, but when his face is plastered everywhere with a dreamy expression directed at your figure, he's become a ticking time bomb.

The photo is taken entirely out of context, he convinces himself. His brain is firing on all cylinders to figure out what was going through his mind during that interview, but all that comes up is how impressed he was after the fight. All he remembers is how impressive you were.

"It's not that big of a deal," you assure him with a playful tone and a smile. You're looking over a magazine cover that showcases the pair of you, your legs kicked up on his desk as you sit in the adjacent seat. "I think we look damn good together."

Katsuki just glares at you as he silently agrees. He's silent as he ponders the meaning behind your words. It's been months since your confession, and any tension or awkwardness has dissipated and has become long-forgotten.

"Everyone should mind their own business," he mumbles, knocking your feet off his desk and swiping the magazine out of your hand. He tosses it in his drawer and slams it shut for good measure. When he looks back at you, you're smug and crossing your leg over the other.

"When were you going to tell me we were in a secret relationship?" Irritation builds in Katsuki's chest. Your teasing isn't helping the situation – if it can be considered a situation. "I would've gotten you flowers for our anniversary."

Katsuki scoffs and returns his focus to his desktop. "Flowers give me allergies. Plus, all the petals falling and shit, making a huge fucking mess."

"You're right," you concede with a sigh. "What would you accept as an anniversary gift, then?"

He doesn't answer right away, even though he already knows. "A limited edition All Might figurine." It earns him a soft laugh from you, and he sneaks a peek from the corner of his eye before your toothy smile fades.

"Don't you already have one of those?"

"They're collectibles."

"Obviously," you remark dryly.

Katsuki doesn't follow up with a rebuttal, and you fall silent, so he glances in your direction to catch you eyeing him with your leg bouncing and your fingers fidgeting in your lap. His stomach flips the most nauseating way as he realizes you're nervous.

"If you have something to say, spit it out," he barks, heat rising to his face. "Otherwise, you still have that report to write for the both of us."

"Yeah, yeah," you hum, waving your hand dismissively at the mention of work. "I have a new assignment, though. Haven't gotten a chance to tell you."

Katsuki remains silent as he waits for you to continue. His eyes narrow at your hesitation.

"The Committee is sending me on a mission in the States." You smile sheepishly, and it takes a moment to register in Katsuki's head.

"A mission? How long?"

"Eight weeks. I leave at the end of this week." You're obviously displeased with his reaction, scrunching your nose and frowning. "Thought you'd be happy for me."

2 months. You were being sent to one of the most dangerous places in the world for 2 months.

"How come I wasn't told about this mission?" He keeps his voice low, and it comes out as a growl. You look more exasperated at his attitude than his lack of an answer. "They're sending you alone?"

"No," you drawl, avoiding his heavy gaze. "They're sending Cellophane too."

Cellophane? If Katsuki wasn't angry before, he was now.

He shoots up from his seat, startling you before taking your wrist and pulling you up.

"Where are we going?" You hiss, stumbling to keep up with his long strides as he drags you to the building's staircase. With the elevators functioning perfectly, there shouldn't be any interruptions from the other patrons in the establishment.

"I get that you're pissed-" You start to say as he holds the door open for you to pass him, but he silences you with a hiss. "Did you just fucking hiss at me?"

"I'm your partner," he reminds you after the door closes behind him. Partners tell each other things. They communicate. Why didn't you tell him earlier? "I should be going with you on this mission. Why the hell are they sending Hanta?"

You huff, crossing your arms over your chest. The platform is small, so you stand on the steps that make you eye level with him. "We volunteered for it."

"Why didn't you tell me?" Katsuki tries to conceal his hurt, but it appears accusatory and bitter. "I would've volunteered with you if you wanted to do it so badly. I would've called you fucking crazy, but I would've done it." For you, his voice whispers in his head, and he rakes a hand through his hair.

"They wouldn't have sent you, anyways," you tell him, glaring at the wall and refusing to look at him. "You're a fan-favorite. You bring in too much money for them to send you to another country right now."

Katsuki barked out a laugh. "Like they wouldn't fucking jump at the chance to get-"

"I didn't tell you because I didn't want you to go," you blurt over him, breathing heavily. You instantly reel back, pressing your knuckles between your brows. "I didn't- That came out wrong."

A plethora of questions and emotions flooded Katsuki. He wondered if he was a lousy partner, if you were tired of working with him, if recently everything had been one-sided – but deep down, he was offended. Why-

"Why not?"

"Because," you stressed, exasperated. "Because I need some space."

Katsuki frowns at that. "Space?"

"Yes, please understand."

Oh. Oh.

"No," he says to you, making you scoff. "I don't want space."

"That's not up to you."

"What about after the mission?" Katsuki presses, reaching out to grab your arm. "I don't want you to leave. You're trying to run away." The image of you standing from your seat and pulling away from him flashes through his head, and he has to shake his head.

"What's the alternative?" Your voice is quiet, but you sound miserable, and Katsuki knows it's his fault. He's spent months blissfully ignorant of your feelings under your professionalism, and he's been unfair.

"Have dinner with me." It slips through his lips quickly, and inviting you to eat with him feels natural. "When you get back."

"Oh, fuck off," you croak, pulling away from him, but his hold on you remains firm. "You're so fucking-"

"Listen to me," he demands, and his voice bounces off the walls. "I know I'll miss you when you leave for this mission. And I'll be waiting for you to come back and thinking about you the whole time you're gone."

"You're only saying this-"

"Dumbass, do I have to spell it out for you?" Katsuki practically screams in your face, shaking you gently. "I can't fucking focus on anything if I don't have you with me. So you have to come back."

You're quiet, and Katsuki's face is on fire. His heart's in his throat, and he briefly wonders if this was how you felt all those months ago.

"I like your stupid laugh," he confesses, squeezing your arm in a desperate attempt for you to believe him. "And when you smile at something I tell you. And I- I don't- Fuck. I'm sorry I've been an idiot, but please don't run away again. And if you don't fucking believe me, I'll prove it."

Katsuki breathes in relief when you finally, finally crack a smile. Soft laughter quickly follows it, and you place your hand over his.

"Alright," you say. "You've convinced me. You can stop embarrassing yourself now."

With a sudden rush of intense embarrassment, Katsuki drops his head in his hand and sighs heavily. As your laughter grows, his uneasiness subsides, and relief slowly washes over him.

He just confessed to you. And you're smiling gently, and you look equally relieved as you grip his hand, and Katsuki can't help but smile too.

"I'm only giving you two months," he warns you, leaning in closer to you and relishing how you respond alike. You raise your brow at that, the corner of your lips twitching upward.

"Or else, what?"

"I'll drag your ass back here from the States if I have to," he says, and a glowing smile blooms across your face.

-

1 year later

"I love you," Katsuki murmurs, watching you step away from the villain as officers take over the arrest.

"Whatever," you scoff, throwing a light punch to his arm. "Only because I did all the work."

"You must've hit your damn head or something because I did all the heavy lifting," he refutes, shoving you away as a newscaster approaches him.

"Dynamight! Dynamight, can you share how your relationship with your partner developed with our viewers? Does it cause any tension or conflict with your peers?"

You almost laugh at the sour expression that twists on Katsuki's face at mentioning other Pro-Heroes as his 'peers'. The reporter raises their microphone higher as Katsuki leans down to comment.

"Mind your own fucking business. Now, fuck off."

"You can't curse on the news, Dynamight," you chastise as he follows you in the opposite direction, leaving the reporter stunned in silence.

"What are they gonna do? Fire me?" Katsuki grins widely, flashing his canines and swooping in for a chaste kiss on your lips.

"Alright, hotshot," you tease, pushing him away in your weak attempt to maintain professionalism. "You're not Number 1 on the charts yet."

He hums lowly in response, almost snarling as a warning to stop beating him down. "We got plans tonight with Ei and Pinky. Don't forget."

"Yes, yes, I know," you sigh, rolling your eyes. "You've reminded me five times already."

"Don't want you spoiling your appetite with your munchies."

"You're not coming back to the office with me?" You ask, noticing him staying back.

"Chargebolt's running late. I gotta cover for him for a few." Katsuki throws a thumb back with an irritated expression, but you have a slight feeling he's excited to get more patrol time. "I'll see you back at home."

Smiling, you nod and start to part ways, but you're pulled back before taking another step.

"The fuck are you going?" Amusement laces his tone, and you're laughing against his lips as Katsuki presses a dozen pecks against your lips. "Gotta say bye to me."

"Okay, goodbye," you strain, trying to escape him with the thought of being watched by civilians around you but failing to suppress your amusement. "You need to stop doing this. Let me go."

"I love you," he says to you. It's quiet and sincere, and you almost stop flailing in his arms at the sentiment.

"I know, Dynamight. I know. Now, let me go."

"Say it back." Katsuki glares at you through his mask, and you almost regret taking down his emotional barricades.

"Okay, but you need to fucking let me go." It annoys you to your wits end when Katsuki tilts his head so his ear faces you, and suddenly he's the most patient man.

"I love you too."

a/n: not my best work, but idc, had to give them a happy ending and i don't fuck with all the dramatics. with that said, hope you liked it enough

tags: @asrasmysoulmate @brunnetteiwik @katbug37 @alekssashka7 @sendnuwudes @mysideeffectsofyou @imdefgam @luvsown @iam-thevillain-of-thisstory @hsxhype @chims-kookies @atsushiki @madsttx @soft-witchy @baby-snart @vampiresarezombies @geldg @punicorn999 @maryhatz @bluenightlight @when-you-are-just-done @aruste @majorapandahero @hp-hogwartsexpress @6423btw @poemzcheng @lilpothoscuttings @ushygushybaby @princess-angie-bakugo @cvltts @cloudydino @tdntu0 @awkwardaardvarkforever @rubymha @bougiebabe @arcorjoan @bustyredheadsworld @everyonehatescarmen @naturakaashi @farawayfromthesun @k0z3me

[icycoldninja]

Hiii!! I really like your writing and I always look forward to your posts!!!! ∩^ω^∩

Picture this, DMC boys with an s/o who knits/crochet 🧶 The reader is very nifty with yarn and makes the boys gifts.

Dante seems like he can rock some knit gloves as he’s fighting demons. He has a little collection from experience of his gloves ruined after his missions.

Vergil seems he uses little bookmarks his partner makes, or a blanket while reading.

Nero is a little harder, tbh I see him swinging around a crochet axe or sword laying around. That or a scarf, idk 🤷‍♀️

V is the hardest I can think of, but I think a sweater/cardigan would suit him. Buddy looks cold 24/7 and he’ll be swaddled with shadow and griffon made a lil sweater during the winter months.

I can just picture the guys having to deal with a bunch of yarn n tools around their shared place w their partner. Ever since I’ve started knitting, yarn has become my whole personality 👵

Aww thank you. Sorry I've been so inactive lately, and for the fact that I had to close requests, but I hope you enjoy all the same! Knitting sounds fun tbh, glad u enjoy it

Sparda boys + V x Knitter!Reader headcannons

¤ Dante ¤

-Constantly makes fun of you and calls you a grandma--in a fond way.

-He does indeed have a collection of knit gloves that you made him, and that fall apart after one mission because of all the roughhousing he does.

-He also has a collection of knit socks, mostly used as backups for when you put all his other sweaty socks into the wash.

-Once sat on one of your knitting needles and got PTSD that he will carry until the end of time.

-Cannot open your closet without worrying about the 800 rolls of yarn that will inevitably fall out onto him, so he bought a giant set of drawers for you to store them in.

-When winter rolls around, you guys will be very warm in your knit sweaters.

■ Vergil ■

-Vergil loves to sit around and read. He loves it even more when there's a nice blanket to snuggle up in.

-He has ordered you to knit him 5 of these comfy blankets so he has extras in case something *cough* Dante *cough* happens to the other ones.

-You joke that he's finally acting his age, doing old man things. He replies, saying you're prematurely aging into a granny. Any minute now, you'll need dentures. It's all in good fun, nothing personal.

-He likes your crocheted bookmarks because not only do they remind him of you, they are also very beautiful.

-He carries a whole bunch of them with him for no explainable reason.

-Once got his foot tangled in all your yarn and nearly tripped. To this day, he silently thanks his lucky stars that no one saw him.

□ Nero □

-Nero never thought much about knitting and what things one can knit until you gave him a very warm scarf.

-Now he refuses to go anywhere without that scarf--it's basically a safety blanket to him.

-He saw you trying to crochet weapons and figured he'd try them out. Even though he probably wouldn't be able to kill a demon with them, they're still fun to have around.

-When Dante and Vergil come over, they end up throwing these crocheted weapons at each other during their inevitable arguments, so Nero suggested hiding some in strategic locations throughout your house.

-He has you knit sweaters when the weather gets colder, but you went overboard, so now there's a huge trunk of sweaters and blankets in your closet.

-He takes you to the craft store every weekend to pick out new supplies.

● V ●

-V is a frail little thing who should be clothed in the finest raiment.

-So, you made him a sweater. However, you sorely miscalculated how large the sweater would have to be, and now it looks like he's wearing a dress.

-Not like he cares; this means there's room for his familiars (or you) to snuggle up in.

-Shadow loves to pull on loose threads and play with your yarn rolls. Oftentimes, this results in a huge mess.

-V would love it if you could knit him shirts or socks to go with the sweater. He loves being all cozy and warm.

-Crocheting some toys for Griffon and Shadow wouldn't be a bad idea either--maybe this will save your precious yarn rolls from being unraveled.

[brains4brawn]

Summer Camp, Football

I was so excited for science camp, it would be my last year as I would start college in the fall. The camp was huge and divided into four major sections; Arts, Sports, Science, and Space with Sports taking up most of the land. The different parts of the camp didn't mingle too much but every Fourth of July there was a gigantic celebration.

It was great seeing old friends and getting to bunk in one of the smaller Sci cabins. My best friend Jeff was assigned with me and we went over the catalog to see what classes there were for the seniors.

In the distance we could hear the rowdy football jocks. It was a trade off, the smaller more private cabins were on the outer perimeter close to the sports section, specifically the footballers. Jeff and I just ignored them while we made our schedules for the following 8 weeks. I started to unpack my huge suitcase into the dresser beside my bed, in the second drawer was a small football key chain with the camp logo emblazoned on it. I picked it up and got a slight static shock, I showed it to Jeff and he thought that some meathead must have forgotten it. We both laughed and well both got slightly turned on at the thought of one of those jocks sleeping in our beds.

The day went by quickly and soon we had our introduction dinner and met everyone in Sci. Soon though I was in bed, tired but excited for tomorrow.

Tomorrow came to early, I awoke at 4:19 am with tons of energy! It was like lightning had struck, i bounced out of bed and began to quietly pace hoping not to disturb Jeff. I decided to go outside where I heard grunting in the distance. I followed the sounds to a flat track woven in-between some cabins where some big jocks were doing an early morning run. One of them saw me and motioned to me, for some reason i went closer. This guy was stunning, he was shirtless and showing off his rock hard body. I felt my penis begin to tent as i drew close, He asked why I was here and I made up some story that my dad always takes me on early jogs and if i could join them. He looked me over and then said that any bro is welcome to join.

I got back around 6:30 my body sore but energized. Jeff was still softly snoring on his side of the cabin. I quickly went to the bathroom and took a shower. Jeff was just getting out of bed when I re-entered the bedroom, he rushed past me into the vacant bathroom, while he was getting ready I still was overcome with energy. I went to a spot on the wood floor and proceeded to do some pushups until I heard the shower turn off.

The next week flew by as I developed a new morning routine. Every morning I'd be up at 4am and jogging with Seth and his bros. They were all really welcoming, and I was having a great time just not thinking. Heck, Jeff even commented one day that I was looking healthier. It felt weird to keep this from my best friend but I know he wouldn't understand. Even though the guys here were awesome, Jeff had been bullied practically his entire life back home.

Afternoons soon became torture as my Sci projects were becoming harder to focus on. My body was brimming with energy and I couldn't wait for the two hours of free time before dinner. Jeff and I used to sit and watch the hunky Jocks play their different sports during the afternoon breaks but now I had the urge to join them. I feel bad for ditching Jeff but now I get in the water and go for a swim or grab some boots and go on a short hike.

Its been almost four weeks since camp started and I haven't felt this good in years. Every morning I get up and run with my bro Seth and the gang, then go and work out at the sports camp gym. By the time I get back to the cabin to shower and change Jeff is already gone. I feel bad for the little bro, he's obviously gay and a guy with my bod can't be easy to room with. It still kinda sucks that I'm in a Sci cabin but at least I'm not far from the rest of the footballers. After morning PT I go to strategy sessions and game history. Then the afternoon is spent playing touch footie with the guys.

The Fourth of July was a blast. All the different sports teams came together and we had scrimmages all day. The Sci Nerds showed off some dope looking robots and the Space Dweebs launched rockets. Later on the Theater Dorks put on a talent show, then came a cookout dinner BBQ. Lastly came the fireworks. As the sky was bombarded by the light, I noticed Jeff off by himself. Not wanting anyone to be alone I picked up my things and moved closer to him. Sitting next to him it was hard not to notice just how much smaller my cabin bro was.

At first he tried to ignore me, but fuck i am not someone who is ignored easily. I scooted my perfect ass up beside him and he told me to go away. I just sat there letting him get used to my presence, I felt an odd need to be protective of the little guy. I heard a sigh and then in a whisper Jeff asked if I knew how perfect I was.

Well duh, I am tall proportionally muscular and let's face it, any guy would be lucky to have a piece of me. Something awoke inside me, feelings that I knew were there but didn't want to admit. I was Mr. Popular, big man on campus, life of the party, but somewhere in the last month I had devolved a crush on this lonely nerd.

It was after midnight when Jeff and I got back to the cabin. I woke up with the little nerd spooning against my bod. Fuck it felt good having him next to me, my morning wood pressed against his back. Jeff woke up slowly and I felt the goosebumps as he realized his situation. His head tilted up and he looked into my eyes, I took the chance and kissed him gently..... which quickly turned into a passionate make out session... which....well, let's say the little nerd is one of the best cocksuckers ever. The moment I erupted into his mouth a slight bit of static electricity passed from me into him.

From then on we became inseparable. Jeff joined me for morning PT and came to support the team in our mock tournament with our sister campgrounds, while I tried my best to support his Sci shit. By the time we left, Jeff had put on some decent size and was getting along with all my bros on the team.

Epilogue:

Two men stand in the tiny cabin, marveling at how they'd spent so much time in such a cramped space. The taller man had just finished his second season in the NFL while his shorter husband had become the CEO of his own successful startup. The men stood there, reminiscing on how they met the summer before college and how they couldn't imagine life without each other. Jeff gave his husband's hand a squeeze before the two of them started their summers as owners of this special place.

[underoospeterparker]

🫶 - HEART for which marauder you think would fit it! But like reader is embarrassed to take her medicine in front of whomever you pick. How would that go 🤔💕

welcome to my 300 celebration! (i chose james!)

James made his way into the kitchen, reaching up to see if you had any snacks in some of your drawers or cupboards. He took to the drawers first, and found absolutely nothing. "Sweetheart," he called out to the bedroom, "do we have anything to eat in here?"

It was a half-joke, but you responded, "maybe in one of the higher cupboards?"

He reached up eagerly, looking through your cupboards until he found one that made him stop. It was filled with, mostly empty, pill bottles, and he grew curious. Before he could stop himself, he grabbed one of the bottles closest to him and looked at the label. Sure enough, it had been addressed directly to you, to have twice a day. It looked like anxiety medication, which he knew because Remus took similar ones.

He made his way into your shared bedroom, leaning against the doorframe until you finally met his eyes. "Did you find-"

You got up from your chair and snatched the bottle from his extended hand. Your gaze left his to focus on a spot on the floor that wasn't half as interesting as him.

"Honey," he murmured, voice soft and quiet. "You wanna tell me why you've been hiding these?"

You were still fixated on the floor, now more on your matching fluffy socks. His large hands cupped your face, tilting it up to meet his eyes. "Hey," he cooed, when your eyes started to water. "Sweetheart, it's okay," he murmured, hands leaving your face to wrap his arms around you.

He pressed several kisses in your hair as you started to murmur something into his sweatshirt. You pulled away, knowing he couldn't possibly hear you when you were talking like that. "I don't know," you answered his earlier question, "why I've been hiding them from you." You paused. "Maybe I thought you wouldn't be okay with it."

You didn't elaborate, and his hold on you tightened slightly, just enough for you to notice. "You can't help it," he said. "Don't let anyone ever tell you that it's not okay. Promise me that," he added.

His gaze was serious. "I promise," you responded, leaning back into his warm hug.

"Good girl," he murmured into your hair. "Now, I'll get you a cup of water to have your medicine and we can watch a movie?"

You gave him a huge smile and a kiss on his cheek as he guided you out of the bedroom. "Sounds perfect."

[kelcemenow]

Drive Me Crazy - Chapter 1.

Pairing Travis Kelce x Reader

Words 682

Warnings Nothing at all!

Huge thank you to the Anon who sent this in! They had such amazing words to say about my writing which I massively appreciate and then to top it off, had an incredible request for me! I only have experience with mechanics in the UK, so I've tried my best with this one! "I just recently got interested in Travis K. X reader stories and wanted to let you know, I read all of yours as quickly as I could. They are so well done and I couldn’t help but laugh/giggle and feel through each word you typed out. You’re doing amazing and I’m so glad to have stumbled onto your page. If you have any space for a request, I’d be curious about what Trav would think about having a military (like fighter pilot) or engineer or mechanic girlfriend. I see a lot of stories with him paired with models/singers/social media individuals (which are phenomenal!) but just wondering how he would be with a more tomboy like girlfriend!"

CHAPTER 1

You wiped the beads of sweat from your forehead with the back of your hand, grabbing your water bottle with the other and slowly gulping down the cool liquid. Taking a deep breath, you closed the hood of the car and gave Jordan a nod of your head to signal that you were finished.

"Thanks, Y/N." He said as he made his way towards you, "I knew you'd figure it out."

"Don't sweat it. You almost had it, bro." You smiled, wiping your hands on the towel that hung from your waistband.

"You're the best." He grinned as he got into the car and started up the engine with ease.

The purring of the motor combined with the sounds of the drills and hydraulics pierced through your ear and although you were used to them, a slight headache was looming. You headed to the small garage office, massaging your temples on the way.

The office door was battered and covered in grease from years of being pushed open by dirty hands, and as it swung open, you were greeted by a smiling face.

"Hey honey!"

"Hey Dad." You said wearily as you pulled open one of the drawers of the desk.

"Oh dear." He groaned, "What's up? That Chevy pushin' against you?"

You shook your head gently as you picked up the bottle of Aspirin, "No, no...I finished it."

"That's my girl."

"Just...I didn't sleep great last night and I got a migraine coming on." You tipped out a couple of tablets into the palm of your hand before popping them into your mouth.

"I'll steer clear of you today then...I wouldn't want to poke the bear." He joked as he opened the door, disappearing onto the shop floor.

"Ha ha." You said flatly, swallowing the Aspirin with a mouthful of water.

The bell above the front door rang and you turned around, plastering a fake smile on your face.

"Good mornin', sir. How can I-"

"Yeah, can I speak to a car mechanic, please?" His eyes were stuck to the phone screen in his hand.

You quietly cleared your throat, clearing away your immediate frustration, "Well, lucky for you, sir, I am one."

The man in front of you looked up and paused, blinking a couple of times before his mouth dropped open, "Oh, I'm so sorry, ma'am."

"Happens all of the time." Your lips curled slightly into a smile, "What can I help you with?"

His eyes darted across your dishevelled appearance, almost narrowing with curiosity as he looked at you. Your hair was pulled back and a colourful scarf was covering your hair as best you could. You were wearing one of your Dad's old band shirts, grease and oil stains adorning any space they could and your navy blue coveralls were pulled down and tied at your waist to relieve you from the blistering heat. You blew a rouge piece of hair away from your face and waited patiently as he reached for his keys and gently placed them on the desk in front of you.

"My uhh...car. I was driving down the highway and...it just-" He stumbled.

You slid the keys closer to you, "I'll take a look."

He ran his hands through his beard, "Thank you. And can I please apologise for what I said? Today is not my day and I just-"

"Honestly, it's really not necessary. Like I said, it happens all of the time. Mechanic isn't really a 'typical career' for a woman." You bent your fingers in the air as you spoke, reciting words that you had heard many times before.

The man exhaled a laugh, his eyes gentle yet piercing, "I gotta say, it's pretty impressive. I'm useless when it comes to stuff like this."

You smiled, an uncomfortable silence filling the room.

"So, if I could take your number and I'll call you later today?"

"Uhh yeah." He mumbled, jotting the digits down on the pad positioned next to your hand before turning back to the door. "And I'm sorry...again."

"It's fine..." You glanced down at the pad, "...Mr Kelce."

______________________________________________________________

I know I said that I was going to carry on with requests before diving into another series but this one was too good not to make into a little series so I'm doing it and no one can stop me! This first part is just setting the scene really so I hope I've piqued your interest! If you want to be included in my Taglist for any future chapters, just let me know!

Taglist @rd14 @dandelionwrites8 @keiva1000 @fantasywritersstuff @caelipartem @anacarangel @she-lives-in-her-dreams @kkrenae @kristencochefski1125 @countrygirl120983 @charmed2000 @nouis-bum @cixrosie @delicateearthquakellama @wordsaresimple-imnot @amylouwho9 @queenisa17 @talicat713 @luvvtrent @purecinnamonextract @savaneafricaine @caelipartem @beyxgrande @caitdaniels @ezgirl1108 @vir-tual @lightsoutstyles @macey234 @s294749w @kelcemesoftly @calirindo @livinginmyfantasies @bernelflo @secretmywritingfictionlawyer @killatravtramp @there-goes-thefighter @unicornblueberry @calirindo @tjkelce87 @kristinamae093 @kmc1989 @ajbird18 @triski73 @ctn26 @kgcaputo07 @abby-splace @bobthe-turmpetman29 @cedricbitch @jmamas92 @bellstwd @killatravsworld @marchmaiden @chimchimmarie @blackstabbath6 @fanficfanatic15 @jessiemariebarnes @mmb219 @vanwritesfan-fiction

[writingwisterias]

Day 16: Temperature Play

ID! Leon Kennedy x AFAB! Reader Warnings: SMUT, MDNI, Temperature play, Glass Dildo, Phone sex, Mutual Masturbation, Mention of porn Masterlist

You stared at the text on your phone whilst you were at work, confusion flashing over your features.

‘Can you open the parcel and leave it in the freezer for a few hours?’

What the fuck was he on about? Leon had been away for a few days, yet another long business trip that was far too boring for him. Reducing his time spent with you. Despite having access to all the hotel's entertainment, he still thought of you. He was close to requesting the sheets to be changed because of how much he spilt all over them. He wasn’t shy to admit he was missing you, poor Hunnigan had gotten the heat of his frustrated rants. The new toy he got you was more for himself than you. He wanted to spend his final free night before the huge event listening to whimpers as you inserted it.

Leon wasn’t shy to admit he watched porn when he was away, preferring videos of you playing with yourself but if the timezones were too far then he would cave. He didn’t want to disturb your beauty sleep after all. That’s where he learnt about the glass dildo, the one that was now sitting on the doorstep of your shared home waiting for you. He had to admit, his text was probably too vague, he could imagine your cute look of confusion as you tried to make sense of it.

You stared at the box when you arrived home, the shape of it looking ordinary but the fragile sticker along the top confused you. You sighed opening the door, placing the package on the table before taking off your coat and shoes. Your phone chimed with another text from Leon :

‘Hope you got home safe, Have you opened it yet?’

His vagueness was catching you off guard, opting to open it before you replied. You expected something weird and strange. He had gained a habit of ordering random things online when they popped up at adverts but this was different. He would have had to look for this, scanned the internet until he found exactly what he wanted all whilst thinking of you. You pulled the dildo out of the box, the length similar to his, the girth slightly smaller it would be a reasonable substitute for him. However, putting it in the freezer stumped you.

‘Interesting. Why am I putting it in the freezer?’

‘To make it cold. Wait until I call you later to take it out :)’

The wait was killing you, the more you thought about it; the more tempted you were to touch that ball of nerves. You had tried everything at this point to not think about how soaked you were. Taking a cold shower - it normally worked for Leon. Watching some intense movie where you had to concentrate. Nap.

When your phone rang hours later you were giddy seeing his photo pop up. His adorable smile on the screen, one that only you were blessed to see, Crow feet lingering at the corners of his eyes. “You haven't touched it yet have you?” He asked, followed by shuffling. Leon had just got back from a long dinner, the outline of his cock was visible the entire time he thanked the Lord that the lighting was dim in the restaurant. He now laid on his hotel bed, his trousers and boxers discarded somewhere by the door. His shirt open and his cock thumping steadily against his stomach. The tip was already beading with pre cum like it was desperately crying for his attention. “No it's still in the freezer” you spoke, walking over to the kitchen. Leon smirked when he heard the freezer drawer open along with your hiss of it being freezing. “It's meant to be love…god I wish I could see you do this” he groaned.

You had walked to the bedroom, the toy wrapped in a tea towel warmed it up enough you wouldn't get freezer burn. “Okay I'm ready” you announced. Your statement was followed by his dark chuckle crackling through the speaker. “Okay baby can you touch your nipples with it please? I want them to be nice and perky for me” he said. You hissed as you picked up the cold dildo before rubbing the tip of it against each nipple. The sensitive buds peaking instantly becoming sore to touch. Your whimpers crackled through his phone, his only confirmation that you were doing as he said.

Instead of touching himself just yet he wanted to wait. Trying his best to ignore the way his cock slapped against his stomach, the angry tip now poked through his foreskin exposing the now steady stream of precum that dribbled down the sides. “It's so cold Leon” you whimpered, the sensation causing your nipples to become painfully hard. Each flick of the dildo around or about them caused you to bite your lip - breathless moans falling from your lips. You could only imagine how this felt once you touched more sensitive areas.

“Can you drag it down your breast? Towards your cunt baby? I want to hear how it feels” he grumbled, hands grabbing at his thighs pulling at the dark hair that decorated them. You tried to form words, the anticipation of what it would feel like against the heat of your pussy filled your mind instead. Leon however wasn't satisfied with that, he wanted to hear every detail. So each time you passed a point he wanted an update on or missed an area he wanted feedback from, you would have to start again. Drifting the toy back up along the goosebumps until your lust filled brain got it right.

His fingers twitched when you finally reached your clit, the description of how it was fluttering underneath the glass was almost his breaking point. If only you could see the pool of precum on his stomach, muddled in with the snail trail - you would have complained what a waste. He could already imagine the feel of your tongue lapping it up like a milk thirsty kitten. “What-what next?” you shivered. The breeze of the night didn't help cool your skin, your body shivering causing the dildo to flick against your clit. “Play with yourself baby but don't enter just yet”

Leon had to catch up, his hands slowly working to each swear, each moan that left your lips as you dragged the dildo through your folds. He hoped he left it long enough that you weren't easily heating it up, losing the freezing temperatures. You could hear the wet sounds of his movements crackle through the phone, wanting desperately to ask how he was doing but all you did was circle the tip of the dildo against your weeping hole.

It was interesting how the glass dildo had such detail for its material. How it never bent or moved like the normal silicone ones. It stayed perfectly hard, ridgid despite your movements. You could only wonder what it would feel like once it sat snugly in your folds.

“You can push it inside now baby.”

You let out a guttural groan as you did so followed by a hiss because of the temperature. Leon let out a groan of his own as he swiped across his tip, spreading the endless stream of his pre down his shaft. He imagined his hand was your pussy, the self lubricant he used was just your juices that spilled from you. He wanted to know if the cock turned cloudy as you thrusted it inside, the arousal that normally coated his now coating the ridgid toy. “How does it feel, baby?”

“So hard…I can feel all of it”

He groaned, the image of your pretty pink lips separating for the toy flooding his mind. God if only he could see this.

His orgasm was incoming and by the sounds of it your was as well. Your whimpers and groans cracked through the phone. It sounded like some badly recorded porno from his phone. Your whimpers turned into swear until finally you gasped and it all released. Your cum warmed your frozen fingertips as it splashed over it. Leon came at your description, ropes of cum climbing his chest almost reaching his chin.

Your gasps and moans were the only thing that filled the air as you both calmed down. “Where do you come up with this shit?” You chuckled, pulling the toy out and laying it back on the towel. Leon laughed, his head thrown back against the plush pillows his phone balanced on his chest. “Boredom away from you”

You both said your goodbyes and miss you. The phone call ends with sweet promises to see each other soon and the dildo tucked away safely in the freezer waiting for his return.

Taglist: @kasueli @luvrgreyy @michellekmsh @miss0giarra @cinnabunnysavvy @redollface @my-loved-figure-skates @luvlouiee @drawboo22 @moth-quasar @nyxxoxo @crazy-b1tch

[satancopilotsmytardis]

Coming on their body? Decorating Dabi’s body in that aspect ;))

Like on the face, or stomach repeatedly?

No | rather not | I dunno | I guess | Sure | Yes | FUCK yes | Oh god you don’t even know |

Drabble under cut!

Dabi was definitely being a brat after they took over the PLF. They had a good place to live, unlimited plastic, and a big room with a huge bed and two sturdy locks on their door. He wanted to get fucked god damn it. But first Duster needed to get treated for his injuries, then get his new prosthetics, and they were in meetings all of the time, and the doc was constantly goading him into new treatments, and on top of the Gigantomachia thing, suddenly it had been two months since they fucked. So he was absolutely being a brat when he'd gone right into Duster's office between meetings, stripped down to nothing but his sexiest lingerie, and started to work himself over slowly.

The look on Shig's face when he came into the room is more than worth the punishment that he knew would be coming afterward. And he had finally gotten fucked the way he'd been wanting for weeks, so he was content enough.

Maybe he should have been more concerned when Duster told him that he would be taking the weekend off so they could spend time together, but at the time he had just hoped that would mean more mind-blowing orgasms in his near future. He should have known that he wouldn't be getting any of those until Tomura thought he had properly learned his place and how to be patient again.

"Come here, whore."

His face burns with his blush as he's forced to crawl along the floor, tugged closer by his leash. Duster makes him kneel in front of the mirror attached to their closet door and then moves over to the nightstand, reaching into the drawer and coming back with a thick black body marker.

"I was planning on surprising you and giving you a reward for being such a good boy while you waited for me to have time to play with you again. But you couldn't wait. You wanted something fast and dirty because you're a filthy little slut." He uncaps the marker as he speaks, voice as even and calm as it is when they're discussing their troops. He catches Dabi's chin between four fingers hard enough to strain his staples and make Dabi whimper, as he writes 'slut' across the unscarred skin of one cheek. "A desperate cockwhore." He tugs his leash and presses his foot to the back of Dabi's neck, forcing him to flatten his shoulders to the ground, his forehead against the carpet, and his cock, trapped in the cold metal cage, aching sharply with the need to fill. The word is scrawled across his lower back just above his ass, and he can't help moaning when he gets a hard slap against it before Shig pushes him over. He rolls onto his back, the cage just loose enough to show that he's already as humiliatingly hard as he can get like this. Sir's eyes linger between his legs coldly. "So pathetic that being treated like this makes your needy cock want more." 'Pathetic' and 'needy' go on the unscarred skin on the inside of either thigh and he's trembling against the ground, already close to begging. "If you could have just behaved then I would have been able to pretend for a little longer that you're more than just a hungry hole begging to be fucked."

"Tomura," He can't help it, the whine coming out of him as he spreads his legs a little wider, lifting his hips from the ground. Knows this is a punishment, but it's making him so hot that he thinks he's going to melt and they've barely started.

The slap that lands hard and high on his inner thigh makes him moan even as the pain stings across his skin. "Filthy little painslut.” That goes over one of his hips. He tries to bite his tongue and be patient and Tomura takes a slow, deep breath. "I activated a new quirk that I thought I would share with you. Regeneration. Not to its full potential yet, but," his hand moves across Dabi's stomach, to his pelvis, makes Dabi moan as he cups his hand over his cage and gives enough pressure to make it dig into his skin slightly. "It can speed up recovery time and increase stamina." Dabi goes absolutely breathless under him. Duster can already go for so long and usually doesn't stop until Dabi's gotten off at least two or three times, had made him sob and beg to stop, then promptly passed out when he had pushed that all the way to six one time when they had the whole day to themselves. "I thought that we would enjoy that together the first time. But you had to misbehave."

"I'm sorry, Sir," he tries desperately. He should be expecting the slap across his face, hard enough to leave black spots dancing across his vision and making him go limp against the carpet as he trembles with his need. Tomura shifts above him again and he hears a drawer open again. He's only able to blink back to focus as fingers catch hard at his cheeks, just under his staples, and start to apply pressure to his jaw, forcing him to open. The rubber ball of the gag slips behind his teeth in a solid, heavy weight that only sends him floating higher as he immediately tries to rub his tongue against it and suck on it like he wishes he was doing for his lover's cock.

"So instead, I'm going to enjoy my new quirk myself, and you--" he reaches down and flicks the cage, making vibrations go through it that have him moaning around the gag. "Are not going to cum until I can't read the words on your body anymore. Until then, you get to be my messy little cumdump." And that one goes across his chest in the bold black letters. "There. Now, if you can keep track of how many times it takes, then maybe when we're all done, I'll give you a reward."

///

Dabi tries to keep count, he really, really does. But it's so hard. Because the first one he has the other straddling his chest, pressing his tits together as Tomura fucks them slow and gentle, so he doesn't damage his seam too badly with a few of the staples out to keep from hurting him either. Fucks his chest as Dabi aches in his cage until he pushes in one more time and splatters his cum across his chest and face, some of it striping up to his hair. He sees Dabi's jaw trying to work around his gag, automatically wanting to open wider, to lick away his release, and that earns him a second across his face. He has him press close and jerk him until there's cum dripping down across his hand and stomach, and then smears it into their sheets when Tomura gets him facedown on their bed, his ass raised and Tomura standing, and he thinks as his fingers push into his hole and start to stretch him, that means he's going to get fucked. He's desperate for it, for relief, but he doesn't get it. Sir completely avoids touching his prostate and letting him creep towards that kind of orgasm. He just leaves him aching and drooling in his cage as he holds his thighs tight and fucks them hard. Three times? Four? Dabi doesn't know. He just knows that he's so wet with Tomura's cum by the time he's finished there that he's kneeling in a puddle of it on the bed and he's sobbing with how badly his own cock hurts and how sore his full balls are from being denied his release.

Sir still isn't finished with him. Rolls Dabi over so that he's getting even filthier in that wet spot and only then shoves into his hole and starts to fuck him. Dabi is certain that if anyone came past their room they would think he's being tortured from the sounds he's making behind his gag, and it feels like he is. He wants to cum so badly, but that's not for him. He's just Sir's slut. He only gets to be used because he misbehaved. Pathetic. Tomura fucking him so hard that it's putting bruises against the back of his thighs. Needy. His cum being fucked out of his gushing hole from how many times he's already been filled. Cockwhore. His body screaming because he never feels as good as he does when he's full and Tomura won't touch his prostate. Painslut. Every movement makes his cock hurt more and more, and that only keeps him on the knife's edge of arousal in a way that he's never experienced before. Cumdump. Just made to be filthy and dripping, smeared with Tomura's release, every inch of him used to make sure he feels good.

"Look at that, baby boy," Sir's voice rough as he runs a hand over his chest, smearing away the mixture of sweat and cum dripping all over his skin. "Finally made your makeup run." And his fingers stray, pinching his nipple at the same time his other hand grips his thigh and he changes his angle. The next thrust is so hard and it finally, finally, puts that solid, perfect pressure against his prostate.

Dabi didn't even know it was possible for him to cum inside of his cage, but he manages one hard twitch and then the explosiveness and radiating pleasure of a real orgasm rather than a milking. Cums as hard as he can in the confines and feels the rubber in his mouth warp a little around the heat of his quirk before he's going limp against the bed and blackness is rushing up over his eyes.

///

He comes to a little while later to Shigaraki carrying him to the bathroom to clean up. Dabi's jaw hurts and he's still in his cage which he whines over, reaching for it.

"Don't worry, baby boy, you can still get clean with that on." Tomura murmurs, leaning in to press a kiss against his temple. "You misbehaved again while you were being punished. So we're going to clean up and have dinner, and then I'm going to put in your sound and we're going to try again. Doesn't that sound fair?" He really does wait for an answer. Waits for him to safeword out. But Dabi feels a bit of brattiness still trying to fight its way up through his exhaustion.

"Yes, Sir." He's not going to back down. He'll hold out until his lover breaks first.

It's a stubborn, stupid sentiment that he's certain he'll be regretting when the sound is in and he's in so much pain as the pressure builds all over again, but if Tomura has quantity covered with his orgasms now, Dabi will happily take quality until he earns back the former as well.

[thiniceofeternalyouth]

MISLEADIN' ME SERIES: CHAPTER SIX

WISH UPON A PAPER PLANE [1 pt.]

⊳ Gojo Satoru x f!reader

series masterlist

Genre: angst, fluff, sci-fi, cosmology.

Chapter warning&tags : ooc, slight manga spoilers, profanity, mentions of alcohol, mentions of pregnancy, touch-starved!Gojo, slight yandere themes (if you squint);

Words count: ~15k

⊲ previous next ⊳

[Nov 23, 2019; 10:51pm; hunter's headquarters]

You stared at the contents of the refrigerator in bewilderment. You closed the door and immediately opened it again trying to make sure you weren't crazy. All the chocolate milk you had bought just yesterday was gone.

It's been going on ever since you had another lodger in your workroom; it didn't matter that you bought twice as much of anything when he arrived, it all disappeared as fast as it appeared.

You came to your senses with the click of the kettle boiling. You calmly brewed the tea, automatically added six sugar cubes to the mug, set it on the table, and then began to pick up the things scattered around the room.  

A redhead appeared in the doorway. "Adoptee, borrow me earphones."

Holding the pile of things in your hands, you glanced over your shoulder at Rachel. She was already dressed in a black uniform; her perpetually unruly hair was tied back in a high ponytail, she wore a black mask with small notches on the sides of it, she had a belt around her waist to which a hip harness was attached, and she was holding a pair of boots. "In the bedside table."

Rachel tapped the mask. "And new respirators."

"Top right drawer of the desk."

"And also elastic bandages."

You tried not to roll your eyes. "Look on the bottom shelf in the closet."

When she found everything she needed, Rachel plopped down in your chair and started bandaging her legs. "Who's that in there?" she asked casually, nodding toward the bathroom door, where you could hear the muffled sound of water.

Gathering up all clothes, you tossed them into the laundry basket. "Three guesses," you mumbled.

Rachel raised her eyebrows playfully. Even though she was wearing a mask, you knew her enough to realize she was biting her lower lip right now. "Is there something between ya two?"

"Definitely," you spread your palms apart, as if trying to measure something. "A huge household chasm, for example."

Rachel chuckled as she continued to bandage her legs. "That bad?"

"Well, not really," you said a little hesitantly, stepped closer to Rachel and sat down on the table. "Once I asked him to throw some of his own clothes in the washer, and, uh… he threw his black t-shirt in with my white clothes," it was supposed to sound like an excuse, but saying it aloud only made you bury your face in your palm more making your next words sound muffled. "I don't have any more white clothes."

"Don't ya think he did it on purpose?" inquired Rachel, pulling on her boots. "Ya know, so you wouldn't ask him for anything else."

You took on a blissful look so suddenly that it made Rachel cringe, and question your normality for the umpteenth time. "Nah, I'm not sure of anything anymore. I'm just graciously accepting the trial God has sent me."

"Why don't ya just punch him a couple times?" she turned to you, jumping up from her chair and starting to stretch her arms.

You sighed ruefully, grabbed her shoulder and pulled her back. "Calm down. I'll definitely get over this one somehow. A couple more months and I might even be able to put up with his God complex."

A hurried exclamation was heard from the bathroom. "Y/N! Where's my uniform?"

You rounded your eyes indignantly, and Rachel hissed because your grip on her shoulder had gotten too strong. "I put it right on the door in front of your nose!" you exclaimed trying to shout over the sound of the water.

"Adoptee, easy," Rachel whined trying to remove your hand from your shoulder.

You tore your gaze away from the bathroom door and perked up. "Sorry," you mumbled guiltily and pulled your hand away.

Gojo came out of the bathroom. You let out a silent sigh of relief when you saw that he had deigned to get dressed after all. Even though he was already in his uniform, drops of water fell from his damp hair onto his cheekbones slowly dripping down, and your mind was already drawing his protruding collarbones. You slapped your palms gently over your face. What were you even thinking? "Mochi," he turned to you, coming closer and closer. "Did you make tea?"

He had already gotten close enough to stand between your legs when you fumbled for the mug on the table and shoved it at him literally pressing it into his chest, pushing him away from you.

"Thank you," Gojo chirped. When he brought the mug to his lips, his expression changed and he frowned his eyebrows seriously. "You added sugar, didn't you? Otherwise, I won't drink it."

You stared blankly at his face for a few more seconds, and then a nervous laugh escaped your lips. You turned to Rachel, and for a second it looked like your eyelid was twitching. "If I do end up in the electric chair, tell everyone it was self-defense."

Rachel nodded understandingly, and jumped out of her chair and headed briskly for the door, forgetting her respirators and headphones leaving them lying on the table.

"Wait!" you shouted after her, but your exclamation was answered only by the metallic creak of the door slamming shut.

Shaking your head in annoyance, you stood up from the table and picked up Rachel's belongings, and before you knew it, his arms were gently around your waist and he rested his chin on the top of your head. "It was a joke. You know I'll drink poison from your hands, right?"

Dazed for a moment, you tilted your head and looked his fingers that delicately traced the fabric of your sweater. He was becoming more touching by the day. "Enough. The temptation is already too strong," as you continued to look at his hands, your gaze locked onto the black uniform. Will ya be gone for long?"

"I'll try to get back as soon as possible," he said to the reason he held in his hands.

He had to hold on harder because for before he could blink, you slipped out of his embrace. "Okay. If anything happens, text me."

Gojo had long since ceased to boast of his strength at such phrases you said; he comforted himself that you said such things not out of underestimation but out of concern, and the thought was so soft he wanted to drown in it. "I can only write to you if something happens?"

"If I say 'yes', will that stop ya taking pictures of every bush and sending them to me with a note saying they look like me?"

"I don't think so."

You nodded understandingly and looked away, but he noticed the wrinkles in the corners of your eyes. You were smiling. "I gotta go. While Rachel and Issu are still here, I need to give some guidance."

You had barely reached the workroom door when you heard his voice again; you had to strain your hearing, for this time he sounded unaccustomedly quiet. "Say you'll miss me."

You felt nothing but joy. The joy of standing with your back to him so he wouldn't notice your surprised eyes, and when you turned around, there was nothing left of the surprise. "See ya," you threw over your shoulder, and the metallic creak of the door slamming shut reached his ears.

***

The three of you were standing on the practice field.

You screwed the respirators harder into the young man's stiff mask and pulled them apart to make sure they fit tightly. His gaze was off to the side and completely blank. You raised your hand up and made a rotating motion with your index finger. He obediently turned his back to you. You looked him over from head to toe, and rubbing your chin, you pulled him up by his belt, where a small hip bag was attached, and tightened the clasps more firmly. He didn't make a sound - you took that as a signal that he was comfortable. You put your arm around Issu's shoulders and turned him around to face you. "Everything alright? Did the mask fit okay? Straps aren't pulling?"

He only shook his head.

You threw a glance at his black disheveled hair falling over his shoulders, then pulled off your scrunchie and held it out to him. "Put ya hair up."

While he obediently tied his hair, you kept looking at him and thinking about how you'd never heard his voice.

Rachel stood beside him and with her hands at her sides, beat the toes of her boots rhythmically against the ground.

Thud-thud.

Issu had already managed to deal with the unruly strands that were poking out, and he was tying the last knot of the elastic band.

Thud-thud.

He shifted his gaze to you, waiting for further instructions.

Thud-thu—

"Calm down!" you barked in Rachel's direction.

"How much longer?" she whined before you could even utter your word.

"Okay," you turned in her direction and clasped your hands together across your chest, exhaling noisily through your mouth. "Now ya. What aren'twe doing?"

"Don't get kid in trouble," Rachel mockingly high-pitchedly teased you.

"Good," you said with a cluck of your tongue and turned back to Issu again. "Now ya're just going to see what the void looks like and try to get used to the sensation. Ya go out through the first rift you see; Rachel will continue raid alone. Clear?" kid nodded and you pull your phone out of your pocket. "Let's check it out."

While Rachel rolled her eyes irritably, Issu already had his phone at the ready. You unlocked the screens and carefully made sure the dials, down to the seconds, went on simultaneously. "Did ya check your watch against your phone?" you turned to Issu. The kid nodded.

"See ya," you said and took a few steps away from them.

"Finally!" exclaimed Rachel enthusiastically, and with maddening lights in her eyes, grabbed the kid's shoulder. You covered your eyes sharply with your forearm.

A purple glow swept across all visible space like an instant tsunami. It vanished as quickly as it had appeared. You pulled your hand away, and glancing at the darkened crowns swaying in the distance, you sat down on the cold ground and waited for Kyle.  

***

It was past midnight. Gojo shivered as he looked at the figure of you sitting in the distance, shrouded by the restless wind that had risen in the night. Your habit of running out of the house without outerwear at any time of year made him want to either mock you or silently walk over and give you his. Or maybe both. When he imagined you drowning in his jacket, he shyly lowered his eyes to the floor and grinned. After a couple of long breaths, he finally looked at you again, and took a step toward you.

His eyes stung, and he tried in vain to blink away the discomfort. When he gave up, he squeezed his eyes shut and pressed the backs of his palms against his eyelids; a purple flash was imprinted on the other side of his closed eyes.

Finally wiping the discomfort from his eyelids, Gojo opened his eyes, but only to see your figure clutched in another man's arms. You and Kyle were holding each other, swaying from side to side as if dancing; he wasn't sure if the man was saying anything to you, but he was sure he could hear you laughing. He seemed to forget one thing at times, which was your main difference.

You've never been alone.

His teeth clenched involuntarily and hard, and he buried his face deeper into the long collar of his uniform, and immediately tucked his hands into his pockets. When he saw you, he'd forgotten why he'd left the house in the first place, but the tight fabric of the clothes he was pinching reminded him that he had to go on a mission.

Glancing once more at your never-disengaged silhouettes, Gojo in one motion pulled the mask that had been hanging around his neck all this time over his eyes and disappeared before you would have been able to notice him. 

[Nov 25, 2019; 04:02am; United States, Montana, Granite County, Garnet]

You finally sat down on the porch of one of the abandoned houses; the path down the washed-out dirt road seemed impossibly long, and your shoes, covered in mud, felt leaden. Behind the towering trees in the hills around the abandoned town or the chirping of the early birds - you tried to catch a glimpse of anything.

You pushed the container away from you, and, unable to resist any longer, you lay down on the porch and stared up at the night sky. Here, in the wilderness, it was unobstructed and unobscured, the noise of light inherent only in inhabited, living places.

The more you gazed into the high night abyss, the more stars appeared on it; they appeared just as a pattern on a table would appear from beneath a layer of dust as if someone were slowly tracing it with a hand.

Was there anything out there? Beyond the observable universe, beyond the entire universe - anything at all? Swallowing the feeling of something exorbitant and unattainable, you raised yourself on your elbows as if it would help you somehow get closer to the sky. Whether the expanses of the universe drew you in with their mystery or drowned you with their silence, you were only concerned with one question: did they long for you as you longed for them?

With difficulty, you looked up from the sky and glanced at your watch. You'd agreed to meet at four a.m. sharp, but the hands were already past half past four. The insider wasn't coming.

With a frustrated sigh, you stood up to your full height and looked up to the heavens once more; barely touching your fingers to your lips, you blowed a timid shy kiss.

As you picked up the container, your hearing picked up a methodical and approaching tapping sound; it was muffled and barely perceptible. Carefully setting the container down, you stepped out onto the dirt road, and tried to look. At first your eyes caught nothing but darkness, but soon you saw the source of the tapping - a cane, and behind the cane as if out of nowhere, a man holding it.

The closer the man came, the smaller he seemed, and when he came close he was almost a head shorter than you. He raised his head, and from beneath his gray hat you were met by a aged but still shining look; his eyes were adorned with a kindly squint, and he held out a wrinkled hand to you. "How the killers from the North doing?"

"More like from the East," you shook his hand firmly.

The older man's thick mustache muffled the chuckle that escaped him. "The rest didn't bother you?" he unclenched your palm, and rested both hands on the handle of his cane.

You interlocked your fingers together and gave a long hum. "Nah, not really," you said shaking your head slightly.

The old man kept his gaze on you. "Have you lived in the East for a long time?" seeing you shake your head from side to side once more, the old man grinned condescendingly. "From the height of my years, I can say that it was in the North that the first hunter appeared-"

"And I dare not argue with ya," your respectful tone was at odds with your actions. It seemed to the old man that, under his gaze you would give in, yield, and give him - if not from status, then from age - the respect he deserved. And you did. But why did the old man find himself under the gaze of your slightly widened eyes?

He swallowed quietly and turned his gaze back to the container. You were leaning closer to his face inch by inch.

The old man clenched his teeth; he felt as if a huge fanged drooling mouth were breathing down his cheek. He turned sharply in your direction, and you immediately recoiled from him chuckling; there was not a shred of danger in your face, except for a benevolent squint. "Did ya bring it?"

"I brought it, yes," said the old man grimly, and adjusting his collar, tapped a dirty cane on the container. "Only that won't be enough. You know it's hard to come by in the present realities."

You nodded briefly. "I'll bring two next time."

"Six," the old man said.

"Three."

"Five," he persisted.

"Three or I'll take away what ya brought by force."

The old man was glad your ugly smile was hidden by the mask. He pulled a matchbook out of his gray suit pocket and held it out to you.

"Thank ya," you chirped taking the box from him. The old man didn't resist, but walked over to the container and picked it up. Despite his frail build, it was easy for him. You pressed your lips together. "Ya even know where the hunters came from, but where ya came from, ya still won't tell me?"

The man cast a glance in your direction over his shoulder. "Girl," he snorted condescendingly. "Only if you weren't human would I be able to explain it to you."

"Yeah, of course," you muttered idly, turning the matchbook in the palm of your hand. The old man turned to face you, and you gave him another glance. "One last question. Do ya know where Rei is now?"  

Black lines spread across the old man's lower eyelids, and his rounded glass eyes turned black. He took a step back. "No," he hissed.

You rolled your eyes irritably, for the man had disappeared too quickly for a truthful answer. You waved the old man away in your mind, and opened the box pulling out a tiny clear bag, staring at the creamy beige dust it contained. You would have stared at it longer if it hadn't been for the phone notification.

[04:31am] Kyle: Issu came out of the void

[04:31am] Kyle: The kid got bilateral pneumonia and dehydration, but overall, he's fine.

[Nov 26, 2019, 05:37am, hunter's headquarters]  

Gojo stood in the doorway of the workroom; his entire uniform was covered in dust and dirt, but he didn't have a scratch on him - as usual, he had come home infinitely alive.

Half of the desk drawers were pulled out; pens, vitamin jars, notebooks, devices that looked like thin black spider webs, and an inordinate number of written and blank sheets of paper were strewn across the floor - he had a few seconds to look at the mess you'd made, but not enough time to look at you. He was standing with his head against the doorjamb watching you and your every move; you were sitting on the floor, shuffling through some papers, humming something to yourself and moving your shoulders rhythmically, apparently to the beat of the music.

"Are you kidding me?" asked Shoko in a monotone voice. "Get up."

Gojo flopped down on the hospital bed where Ieiri had just changed the bedding and buried his face in the pillow.

"Get up already," she said, but he didn't move. Shoko sighed irritably, but sat down in the chair that was next to the bunk. She knew for sure she would regret her next words. "If you don't want to leave, then just tell me what's wrong already."

Gojo raised his head sharply. "I don't understand!" he exclaimed, and Shoko involuntarily squeezed her eyes shut at the loud sound. "I'm trying to make contact, to bond in some way, to form a friendship, and she!" he almost gasped with indignation. "I even walk around half-naked in front of her, and she looks at me like I'm an earthworm!"

"Disgusted?" asked Shoko wrinkling her nose.

"SHE DOESN'T LOOK AT ME AT ALL-"

Shoko abruptly covered his mouth with her hand, only for him to stop screaming like that. "Stop yelling," she hissed, and he nodded exhaling into her hand in defeat. Ieiri removed her palm. "Form a friendship, you say," she summarized skeptically. "Tell me, how often have you flaunted your bare torso in front of Suguru, then thrown tantrums about him not paying attention to you?"

Gojo opened his mouth, but no words came out; only an inarticulate snort and he turned away from her.

Shoko shook her head and leaned back in her chair. "I don't know what's on your mind, but don't you think you just romanticized the image of her in your head and now you're just pissed off that she's not acting the way you thought she would?"

"I've never done that."

"Oh, really?" she muttered raising her eyebrows. "How much do you know about her anyway?"

Gojo buried his face in the pillow again. There was a quiet, suppressed 'Back off'.

He immediately wanted to leave. He'd come here for comfort, not sticky guilt.

Shoko looked over his motionless figure before patting him on the back. "Well, go find out."

He pulled away from the pillow and finally assumed a sitting position tucking his long legs under him. "And you?" he met her questioning gaze. "Well, how do you feel about her?"

"I try not to cross paths with her at all," she replied dryly.

He glanced at her spitefully. "Why?"

Shoko began to restlessly twirl a curl on her finger. "I don't know. Rachel told me that she does something to hunters that makes them either get stronger or die. Guess the outnumber."

A skeptical grin showed on his lips. He couldn't believe his ears. Such words - and from her? "Are you serious?"

"I'm not fifteen years old," she bellowed, and nervously running her palms over her face, tried to pull herself together. "I'm well aware that it's unlikely she's doing this for pleasure or fun. It's just..." Shoko swallowed, and finding a lifeline in the form of a window stared out of it. "I've had two loved ones in my life who committed questionable acts, but somehow they were regretful, doubtful, sometimes even broken-looking. Even though they tried to hide it, you could always tell and that's okay. No matter how powerful the sorcerers are, they're still human," as he listened to her words, he hadn't noticed how long he'd been looking at his interlocked fingers. "And then... Then I look at her, and... I don't know," Shoko shrugged weakly. "It's like she doesn't regret anything. It's like she has no emotions at all."

Gojo had always believed his best friend. Even now he believed that Shoko was telling the truth. Only it was her truth.

Gojo put his palm to his mouth and suppressed a chuckle when you started humming once more, then moved slowly toward you. He stopped a few inches away, nervously fumbling with a tiny souvenir in his pocket.

His fingers were already a few inches away from the fabric of your sweatshirt as you pulled your head up. When you met his gaze, you pulled out your headphones.

He just needed to say hello. The usual word 'hey', there was nothing complicated about it.

Gojo leaned in to be closer to your face. "It's not even six in the morning and you're already villainizing," he gently rubbed his nose against your forehead.

"Back already?" you asked surprised, getting up from the floor. "Are ya okay?"

He went into a stupor. Up until this point, coming home from assignments Gojo had gotten nothing but short nods, questions about how it went or complaints from higher-ups. "Me?" he questioned dully. "Yeah. Yeah, everything's fine. Except I'm dirty. Uh," confused for words, he bit his tongue. "I-I mean, my uniform is dirty. See?" Gojo tugged his sleeve and let go sharply causing a tiny cloud of dust to rise.

You lowered your head and bit your lip, trying to calm the spasmodic heaving of your chest. "Uh-huh," you muttered quickly putting your palm to your lips. Coughing, you looked up at him again squinting your eyes.

He hid his face in his palms. "If you laugh now, I swear to God, I'll cry," Gojo mumbled.

He barely had time to say the words before you burst out laughing. "Please, just get in the shower," you turned to the computer waving one hand away from him and the other away from the tears that were coming, and he turned on his heels and headed for the bathroom.

Gojo slammed the door shut with force, and walked over to the mirror to meet his flushed face. "That witch," he muttered clenching his cheeks. "Pull yourself together," he quietly slammed his palms on his face.

He removed the mask hanging around his neck and quickly threw his jacket to the floor. Something clanked along with the familiar thud.

There was the sound of a palm slapping against his forehead. He'd forgotten to hand over the souvenir.

That thought made him shower as quickly as possible; he even forgot to apply the rest of (your) moisturizer to his body.

After getting out of the shower, he flew over to the dresser and pulled out a drawer, but the contents - or rather, the lack thereof - made him furrow his brows. Gojo quickly rummaged through all the drawers, but found no clean clothes.

He looked around the bathroom absent-mindedly. All that was left was a towel. 'That's even better,' he thought to himself smiling stupidly.

Gojo slipped the towel over his hips and looked at himself in the mirror. He ran a hand through his hair tucking it back; a few unruly strands did fall into his face. He took a couple of deep breaths and walked out of the bathroom clutching a small gift in his hand. 

You were still standing with your back to him looking at something on the monitor. "I'm not looking," you nodded over your shoulder not looking away from the screen.

Gojo gave a barely audible chuckle. "That's a pity."

"What is it?" you asked stretching the words playfully. He was moving quietly toward you, not paying attention. You flipped your hair to the side exposing the back of your head - he gulped. "Has magic stopped putting clean clothes in the dresser?" You saw something on the screen that made you squeeze your thigh with your hand – it almost took his breath away. "Ah yes, that wasn't magic either. It was me," with a splash of your hands, you turned around and almost collided with his still-water-damp chest. You wanted to take a step back, but the table, which was already close by, hindered you. You looked up at Gojo questioningly.

Gojo had always thought he could take the stares of anyone; here with you he lowered his gaze and stared somewhere around your collarbones. He coughed softly, picked you up by the waist and before you could say anything, he had you sitting on the table.

Taking your hand, Gojo stroked it gently with his thumb as if to see if it was okay. You sat with your face buried in his shoulder not moving. He rested his cheek against the top of your head, his hand moving slowly up your forearm. He lingered on your shoulder and squeezed it gently, and at that moment he prayed to all the Gods that someone, anyone would turn off the damn sound in this world - because his breathing was too heavy and audible. He ran his knuckles down your neck barely touching the thin fabric of the tight collar. Finally, his fingertips sank into the black mask. He couldn't feel your skin, just an unpleasant tingle. He rubbed his nose against the top of your head forcing you to look up at him, and when your eyes met, he finally unclenched the hand that was against your face. Something jingled.

"And this is for you," Gojo smiled. "When I saw it, I immediately thought that, well... That it looks like you," on one of his fingers on a ring hung a keychain. It was a rubbery little astronaut. You couldn't see his face under his white spacesuit - it was hidden under orange 'glass'. The astronaut had a disproportionately large head, and his tiny arms were spread apart as if he were ready to hug anyone.

Seeing you hesitate, Gojo put the keychain in your hand.

The action made you perk up. "Thank ya," you chirped softly. He nodded briefly but contentedly at your words, but he took his time pulling away from you. His eyes widened at first when he felt your palm on his cheek, but when he felt you start to move closer, he didn't know where to look. To the right? To the left? Down? His gaze darted erratically this way and that, afraid to even move so as not to scare you away. When your lips were at his ear, his vision blurred. "Put ya pants on."

Gojo pulled away from you abruptly. "You!" he raised his hand pointing a finger at you. "You ruined everything!"

You jumped off the table and turned back to the monitor. "Look in the closet, I think there was some left over."

Behind your back, you heard a disgruntled muttering and the creaking of closet doors, followed by footsteps and the squeak of a mattress. 

He could hear the familiar clacking of keys. He couldn't get Shoko's words about not knowing you at all out of his head. "How long you here for?"

"Well... I don't even know," you muttered, not taking your eyes off the screen. "We have a town day coming up on December 5th, and Frank's going to kill me if I don't show up there. Which means I need to get as many things done as possible to keep my head down, and considering I'm going on a raid tonight, there's less and less time."

"You mean there won't be any free time at all?"

"What's wrong?"

"Pay attention to me," Gojo asked quietly. "At least ten minutes. Lay with me."    

Your fingers hovered over the keyboard. You looked up slowly and saw his figure nestled comfortably beneath your blanket, and you tightened your lips nervously.

"I won't do anything stupid," he said moving to the other edge and patting the seat he'd vacated. "I swear."

"Okay," you replied and walked over to the bed. As you fluffed your pillow, doubt crept into your soul. A viscous and sticky feeling that drowned you like a swamp. Anxiety went hand in hand with doubt, like a person pushing you deeper into the swamp.

You plopped down next to him.

"Gotcha!" he exclaimed triumphantly, and in one motion he was on top of you. His arms wrapped around your waist, and he rested his head on your chest. "There's no escape now."

You rolled your eyes. There he was - both the swamp and the man drowning you in it. "You're heavy," you mumbled softly trying unsuccessfully to shove him off you.

"You have to be patient," he murmured wrapping his arms tighter around your waist. Something crunched in your back. Gojo looked up sharply and seeing the tiny wrinkles on the bridge of your nose, he panicked. "I'm sorry! Does it hurt?"

"Ya know... You should learn to calculate your strength," you said quietly squirming and trying to get into a more comfortable position. 

Gojo loosened his grip a little. "I'll try to be more careful next time," he said and returning his head to its previous position, rubbed his cheek gently against your collarbones as if apologizing. He had experience. Combat, worldly, sexual.

But this was an experience he hadn't had yet.

Your hand was already burrowing into his hair. Water dripped from the still-wet strands straight onto your clothes, but you continued to massage his scalp ignoring it.

"Mochi?" he addressed you softly, and he heard you hum something to yourself. "Where are your parents?"

"Not here."

He hesitated a bit before asking the next question. "What happened to them?"

"Dunno."

Gojo furrowed his brows, and a sense of annoyance made him clench his teeth. The dialog wasn't flowing, but he never backed down either. "Your favorite food?"

The range of topics made you chuckle. "With this job I don't have much choice, so I guess you could say I'm an omnivore."

"Wow, what do we have here?" he playfully inquired raising his head. He began to gently nibble and tickle your sides. "An answer consisting of more than two words?"

You tried not to squirm or roll, but you couldn't. Gojo pinched just above your waist, and laughter burst out of you. "That's it, stop it, STOP!" you tried to pull his hands away.

"I won't do it again," he purred with a satisfied smile. "For now," he added laying his head back down. The tickling turned smoothly into stroking. "And your strength... Is it, well... Is it innate or acquired?"

You flicked him gently on the forehead. "What strength do ya keep talking about?"

"So it wasn't you who came in, snapped your fingers and got rid of the curse king?" he asked ironically.

You grinned. "Well, if that's what it looked like to you, then I haven't practiced for nothing."

"You still haven't answered my question," he pinched your side warningly.

You exhaled noisily removing his hand only for him to stubbornly put it back in place. "More like both."

The next question Gojo asked was kind of in-between, but it dumbfounded you. "What about you and Kyle?"

"Uh," you squinted your eyes and slowly swept your gaze around the room as if there was an answer to that question lurking around here somewhere. Or at least a little clarification. "What about Kyle and me?"

"Aren't you two a little too close?" he muttered into the fabric of your sweatshirt.

"What?" still as perplexed as ever, you asked. "What do ya mean? He's my brother."

"He's no relation to you," he blurted out and immediately felt your muscles tense.

"Now that wasn't necessary at all," you hissed unhappily, removing your hand from his head and trying to push him off of you.

"I'll definitely bite my tongue off someday," he promised holding you in place. He lifted his head and stared at your face. "I'm sorry," he whispered childishly tweaking his lower lip.

"Whatever," you said nonchalantly, returning his head to your chest

"One last question. Did anything happen between you?"

You shrugged. "There was a lot going on between us."

It was as if someone had broken off a piece of his rib and put a smoldering coal in it - just like that, everything in his chest was on fire. "What kind of answer is that?" he spat out.

"What kind of question is that?" you asked indignantly raising your voice, and that made him falter. "Look," you said on an exhale, and it was as if all emotion had gone out of you again. "If this keeps up, I'd better get to work."

"Five minutes," he mumbled. "I'll be quiet, really. Just...," he stammered, and shyly took your hand and put it back on his head. "Just let's lie down for another five minutes."

Instead of answering, you started going through his strands again. Gojo exhaled in relief. When you moved to the back of his neck, his breathing slowed with each movement of your fingers. When you heard him sniffle, you wondered if he'd fallen asleep without eating.

Five minutes seamlessly flowed into eight hours.

[Nov 28, 2019; 10:04pm; hunter's headquarters]

The sound of the waves - whether quiet or restless - always soothed tired minds. Maybe the water shimmering in the twilight mesmerized him, or maybe he didn't have the strength to look up at the horizon standing so close to the edge that he could see the waves licking the coastal rocks.

He had never thought of such a thing, he was too strong in spirit. However, in this moment the real him was as if he were looking at himself from the outside, chained and completely immobilized. It had been more than a year since those events, and he had never been able to talk about his feelings, and the others had not dared to ask: some  of them had no idea that all that time his soul had been torn as easily as an old rag; others had no idea what had happened.

He kept looking helplessly at himself, at the other version of himself that didn't have the guts to take one step forward, either one step back.

"Kid!" Itadori flinched when he heard the loud voice that overrode the sound of the water. He couldn't even turn around on his own - he was turned around by a strong hand that rested on his shoulder. "What ya doing here?" asked Kyle, it was impossible to see in the darkness as he squinted his eyes. "Let's get inside," he nudged the boy lightly and Itadori went forward out of inertia. Kyle followed him.

When they were on the doorstep, seeing Itadori heading for the stairs, Kyle put his arm around his shoulders and turned him toward the workroom.

Kyle sat Itadori down in a chair, threw a blanket over his shoulders, and made chamomile tea. Sitting down beside him, he held out the mug to the boy, but Itadori didn't react. Kyle exhaled worriedly and set the mug on the table. "Tell me about it," Itadori kept staring at one point as he continued. Interlocking his fingers, Kyle leaned over and looked into his eyes trying to find something there. "I know this isn't easy. Try to get one word out of you, and it'll get easier from there-

Kyle was interrupted by a ragged sob. Burying his face in his hands, Itadori bent down and began to shudder with his whole body.

It was always good to vent, but it was much better to tell what had gotten you to this point. Taking the mug, Kyle gently but stubbornly grabbed the boy's chin forcing him to look up. "Drink."

Itadori nodded curtly, took the mug and took a couple of sips. His eyes were as red as his crying face. "Tell me," he mumbled, and his lips trembled again. "Have people ever died through your fault?"

Kyle raised his eyebrows in surprise. Since when do such adult problems have such a childish face? "I don't know how ya'll feel about us after this, but I'll even say more than that. We killed people." 

"You...," Itadori began, but feeling a cry coming up to his throat, he sipped from his mug again. "You mean dioreacts?"

"No," Kyle shook his head nonchalantly. "We got over them a long time ago and just accepted as fact that the fusion process was irreversible. What I meant was that we were killing people. Ordinary people."

"But how come..."

"It just happened," Kyle exhaled grimly.

"How do you handle it?" asked Yuji with broken hope in his voice.

Kyle smiled sadly. "We'll tell you when we will," he patted Itadori on the top of his head. "And anyway... Ya're a huge empath, kid. And with a job like this... Well, I guess that's your truest curse."

Itadori didn't have time to say anything before a redhead appeared from behind the door. "I'm actually here for perfume... What's this?" asked Rachel with suspicion in her voice.

She was wearing a tight black evening dress, and her perpetually unruly hair was styled and tossed to the side. There was the sound of high heels clomping in the workroom as she stepped closer to the boys, and after dropping her clutch on the table, she pulled up a chair and sat down next to Kyle.

Rachel looked at Itadori's face, which was as tearful as it was lifeless, and turned a meaningful glance at Kyle. He only nodded awkwardly pressing his lips together. She wrinkled her nose and sucked air through her teeth as if she'd stubbed her finger on paper. "What, the moral compass has snapped a bit?" she turned to Itadori. "Don't worry, everyone's been through it."

"Anyway, what I wanted to say," Kyle began. "We're having a festivity in town on the fifth. And I'd really like to show ya something, so... Whatever you're up to, leave it, okay?" Itadori fidgeted in his chair and stammered. He only realized what he wanted to do when the other person said it. He nodded shamefully wrapping himself in the blanket. "That's good," Kyle smiled warmly, but the smile abruptly disappeared from his face when he looked at Rachel. "Where ya off to again?"

"On a date," she chirped tucking her hair behind her ear.

Kyle crossed his arms over his chest and planted his foot on his leg. "Isn't it about time ya settled on one?"

"Look, why ya dancing so shitty?" she hissed glaring at him.

"What are you talking about?" he blurted out angrily

"I thought eunuchs weren't supposed to be disturbed by anything!"

"Shut your mouth!"

They were brought out of their argument by a faint chuckle that sounded like another sob. "Look at it," Rachel muttered glaring at Kyle. "Got the kid down again," she stood up, and taking Itadori under her arm, set him on his feet. She was already taller than he was, but in heels, she was a whole head taller. "Let's get out of here, sweetheart. I'll walk ya to your room," she said and putting her arm around his shoulder, she led a flushed Itadori who was no longer crying away from the workroom.

Looking at them, Kyle reached for Itadori's mug, but there was another one in the way - yours, with unfinished tea. The knock made Kyle jerk and when he turned around, he saw the tea spreading over the scattered papers. "For fuck's sake," he reprimanded you for the mess you left behind.

Kyle picked up the mug and took it to the sink. Returning to the desk, he crumpled up all the papers and tossed them in the trash. Wiping down the desk and coming across the pens and pencils, he tossed it into one drawer; seeing the papers, he tossed them into another. Still holding the rag in his hands, he walked over the surfaces of the furniture wiping away the dust.

He had already washed the few dishes in the sink and put them on the shelves. He came to his senses only when he put a pair of sneakers he'd found under the bed at the doorstep of the workroom.

"That's better," he exhaled contentedly, looking around the room.

There was a click behind him, and Kyle looked back, contentment replaced by rage. He clenched his teeth tightly so they wouldn't end up in the throat of the person who'd entered the workshop.

"Well, hey there," Gojo greeted him tilting his head slightly sideways and smiled.

"You're just an asshole, not a teacher," Kyle spat out into his masked face. As he walked out of the workshop, Kyle didn't even nudge him with his shoulder - he didn't want to touch him that much.

[Dec 4, 2019; 09:47am; Hopetown].

The morning was frosty, fresh, but windless, and the road was long, but long ago trampled and learned by heart, and from this took much less strength than in the first times.

But you were accompanied by newcomers - behind you could hear the heavy breathing from the long climb up the slope; someone was swatting from branches and coniferous vegetation; someone fumbled aside when stone chips fell from the high nearby cliffs.

"Y/N," Yuta's panting voice came from behind you. "How much farther is it?"

Yuta grumbled annoyingly when he heard your cheerful voice. "Nah," you chirped brushing a branch out of the way with your hand. "We'll go up now, and then we can see the town. Then all that's left is to go down."

There was a long exhalation behind you, and some unhappy muttering. "Ya didn't train their stamina at all, did ya?" you asked quietly, turning your head slightly.

"Somehow... I haven't had time for that sort of thing. You know, magic and all that," Gojo muttered on an exhale, dodging another branch. "Can't we just teleport?"

"Ya weak or what?" you taunted him. "Move ya feet, come on. We're almost there."

Overcoming the remaining distance, you pulled back one of the coniferous branches that obscured the view. "Welcome," you said, and bent in a mock bow taking your hand aside and pointing the way.

Surrounded by the mountains that threw a white-colored garment over their 'shoulders', surrounded by the vegetation that was now sleeping under the snow, surrounded by the river that had no beginning and ran away somewhere beyond the mountains, there was a town. The houses looked gingerbread, and the snow lying on them looked like icing.

Slowly floating across the sky, the heavy clouds were touching the peaks of the mountains and cutting themselves not worrying about anything. From up here, everything seemed so quiet as if no one had ever lived here.

You cast your eyes upon a distant cliff hidden in the high rocks, and your thoughts were filled with the troubles of the days ahead.

Now all that's left is to descend as carefully as possible.

***

"Careful, it's slippery!" you exclaimed uncontrollably as Maki stepped onto the bridge leading across the river into town, her foot going sideways. Taking her by the arm, you set off forward together.

It was no longer so quiet. There was clanking, clattering, negotiations, shouts and laughter everywhere. There were dozens of trampled paths: from house to house, from house to warehouse, from storage to powerhouse, from powerhouse to bar, from bar to house. Only one path almost covered with snow went somewhere over the mountain into the forest.

Some houses were made of wood, some of stone, and some of both, whatever material and strength was available. Because of the different landscape, all the houses were on different levels and were hidden behind each other, and the snowdrifts hid them as well. The chimney of each house was filled with thick smoke, and the glass windows were covered with patterns drawn overnight during the winter.

There was a thud behind you. When you turned around, you saw Danielle lying in a snowdrift.

"Dany, are you okay-" you faltered as you saw Megumi run up to her, and gently picking her up by the waist, set her on her feet. They held hands.

There was a disgruntled, indignant muttering above your ear. "Why didn't I think of that?"

"You should wear a hat, fancy boy," you said looking at Gojo. "You'll catch cold."

"We're almost here anyway," he said, and smiling, he reached into your pocket with one hand and squeezed your warm palm.

"Okay, okay!" you shouted drawing attention. "We're that way, guys," you pointed to one of the large wooden houses standing on a high hill.

"...look at that, they showed up after all..."

Faces began to show in the windows hiding anger and discontent behind snowy patterns.

"...since when have there been so many of them...?"

People started coming out of the houses. Whether just to spit or to get a better look.

"...They're all kids, has she gone completely insane...?"

You didn't realize how tightly you'd squeezed Gojo's hand. He looked at you worriedly, but there was nothing on your face - the look seemed even emptier than before.

"Hey," he quietly called out to you tapping his finger gently on your cold cheek. "Let's go inside."

You nodded and he led you up the slope. He looked back at you periodically as if he were checking to see if you were missing, if you'd run away - as if he weren't the one holding your hand right now.

Suddenly, something small and fast came at you from the top of the hill - no, not an avalanche - and your eyes only caught a few red strands sticking out from under hat. "Y/N!" the boy squeaked before flying into your arms, and you almost went flying down the hill.

"Hey, Mike," you greeted him, cradling the imp in your arms.

"Where's mom?" he asked peering over your shoulders but only bumping into Gojo.

"I'm sorry, but she's on a raid right now. She won't be back until after the festivity," you stroked his back sympathetically.

"She's always like this," he mumbled frustratedly into your scarf.

"Don't get upset, it's not her fault. She'll come eventually anyway," you tried to cheer him up. You set him on his feet, and noticing that his hat had moved down over his eyes, you corrected it. Tears came out. 

There was a sob that heralded the beginning of disaster. What do you say to a child who's about to cry? That sometimes circumstances are stronger than we are? That tears can't help the grief? Or should you tell him that everything will be fine? Will he even understand what you are trying to say?

The first whimper that came out of Mike's lips was still soft. You put your hand to your forehead in panic trying to think of all the options.

Suddenly, Gojo scooped Mike up into his arms. "We'll be right there!" he exclaimed and you jerked as they instantly disappeared from your sight.

The panic only intensified. You looked around erratically, trying to catch a glimpse of them. What are you going to tell Rachel? That her son was stolen by a madman?

Your heart was stopped from bursting by them also appearing out of nowhere. Gojo's hair was more disheveled than usual, but Mike was hatless, his red hair bunched up in tangles. He sat quietly in Gojo's arms, his eyes full of shock.

"What did ya do to him, you-"

"That was so cool!" squealed a recovered Mike loudly.

"We... We scouted the area a bit. From above," Gojo said shyly, nodding to the sky.

You slapped your palm to your forehead. "He's going to bury us," you muttered quickly. "Frank's gonna bury us. Alive. When he finds out about this."

Gojo lowered Mike to the ground, and the boy immediately burst toward the house. "Calm down, everything's okay."  

You looked at Mike with round eyes. "Now he's going to find out," you whispered quietly. "That's it, we're dead," you started to giggle for some reason, and when you turned around, you saw that you weren't alone. "You're crazy," you said and Gojo kept laughing, pulling you close and burrowing into your scarf.  

***

Under the stare, you both bowed your heads. You were biting your lip and looking at your suddenly interesting shoes. You wished Frank would say something sooner because as so often happens, waiting for punishment is worse than punishment itself.

One of you couldn't take it. He couldn't take it, and he gave up.

"I totally take the blame," Gojo said.

There was a heavy sigh. Frank got up from his chair, walked over to you, and hugged you as hard as he could. "Ya," Frank addressed you in a bass voice. "Grab a shovel and go clean the roads."

A relieved exhale escaped your lips, you clutched your chest. "Thank God!" you squeaked, and before you flew out the door, you shouted: "Good luck!"

"And ya," Frank turned to Gojo squinting his eyes and appraising him with his gaze. "Ya're gonna help me cook dinner." Gojo furrowed his eyebrows incredulously. Was this the whole punishment thing? "Move, son," Frank said and slapped Gojo on the back with such force that his lungs nearly popped out.

"Your arm is... heavy," he wheezed rubbing the sore spot.

Frank only hummed and walked over to the locker and pulled out a bag of potatoes. "Here. Peel." Gojo shrugged, but began to do as commanded. In complete silence they began to prepare dinner, Frank chopping up meat and vegetables and serving him peeled potatoes.

Gojo glanced at Frank furtively, waiting for him to say something, but he seemed too focused. He didn't like moralizing, but at least he was ready for it. Silence was hard to get used to.

Gojo coughed quietly. "So, uh... Where's your wife?" he asked in a grayed voice. "It must be very hard to run a household alone."

"My girl's long gone," grinned Frank popping chopped onions into the pot.

"I'm sorry," he said.

Frank did not faint. "Don't be," he said. "We'll all be there. And besides, I've got great kids."

"That's true," he said quietly, smiling like a fool. Your face flashed before my eyes.

Frank looked at it with a sly look. "How's it going with Y/N?"

Gojo felt the blood rush sharply to his cheeks. "Fine," he wanted to end there, but the next words came out on their own. "Expect she's... I don't know, it seems she shuts people out. I mean, too much."

"She has her reasons," Frank brushed it off, while checking the pie in the oven.

"Like what?" he blurted out.

Frank hummed longingly, examining the golden pie crust. "Do you think we should wait any longer or is it ready?"

Gojo threw the knife into the sink with a loud clang. "Look, under her clothes I counted five scars on her stomach, nine on her back, three on her left arm, and what's on her neck... And that's just what I could feel," he listed angrily. "What happened to her?" he added in a whisper, barely audible.

Frank slowly closed the oven and sighed heavily. "I don't know." 

"What?" squeamishly and incredulously he blurted out his question.

"Cool your jets," Frank said calmly, rising to his full height. "I don't know not because I don't want to, but because my daughter never told me. Shall I torture her? When the time comes, she'll tell me and even if she doesn't, it's my role as a father to support and love her no matter what," Gojo only swallowed hard and nodded briefly, but his clenched fists wouldn't unclench for some reason. "But I'm old," Frank said sadly. "So I have the nerve to ask ya to look after her when I'm gone. You two seem to be...getting along pretty well." 

"I'll protect her," Gojo assured firmly, picking up his knife again and began methodically peeling the skin off the potato trying to calm himself down.

"Son, my daughter doesn't need protection," Frank shook his head. "Yeah, and caring isn't just about that."

"What else, then?" he asked quietly.

"Well, how about that," Frank began. He finally pulled out the pie, all smoky and flavorful, and set it on the dining table. "Emotional support. When person don't ridicule you or your hobbies. Praise, maybe even for the little things. Or when you come home all dirty and tired and they take you to the table and spoon-feed you," Frank glanced at the two chairs next to him, and for a moment, he saw two ghosts - his and his wife's. "A blanket to cover you, or give you the tastiest piece on your plate, and when you're sick you don't drag yourself feverishly to the drugstore to get medicine. In the little things, in general."

Gojo froze. All the clothes that had been washed and put on the shelves by you immediately flashed through his head, all the hot breakfasts, and your worried messages if he was even ten minutes late.. He remembered looking at you through the mirror while you dried his hair, and the discovery of the second blanket thrown on top of him in heavy frosts. He could still feel the warmth in his hands from the mug of tea you'd brewed. "I'll be right back!" 

"Where ya think ya goin'?" exclaimed Frank angrily, grabbing him by the scruff of the neck. "And the soup? What a bunch of kids," he muttered quietly to himself, and giving Gojo a ladle in his hand, ordered him to stir the broth.

***

Tris was sitting on your lap puffing and panting childishly, folding the corners of the paper repeatedly. Every time she failed or got it wrong, she would crumple it up nervously with her childish hands and toss it in the trash, and you would stare at the pile of scraps in the corner of the room.

It was getting dark outside the window, and Tris could barely see what exactly she was doing anymore, but her stubbornness kept her from saying a word. You turned on the nightlight.

"Better?" you asked her, and she only nodded angrily. "Don't be so nervous. It'll work out sooner or later. Ya want me to help ya?"

"No!" she squeaked angrily, clutching the paper into a shred again and tossing it aside.

You pressed your lips together understandingly, leaned back in your chair, and stroked her hair to make her feel better. She kept squirming in your lap, and you had to catch her from time to time, but she didn't even notice, too engrossed.

Her panting subsided a little when she finally successfully folded the first corners. "There, that's not bad," you said softly, resting your head on her shoulder and watching the result.

There was a knock at the door.

"Come in," you said not taking your eyes off Tris's labors.

"How is it going?" asked Frank softly, leaning over the table. You nodded slowly towards the table. "Tris, it's time to go to your room."

"I'll be going soon," she muttered without looking up.

"Watch it," he ordered you sternly, while kissing the tops of both of you. As Frank stepped back, Gojo appeared from behind his broad back.

Frank was already standing in the doorway. "Actually, I just came by to tell ya that we don't have any more extra rooms. So ya're gonna have to sleep together."

Before you could answer anything, Frank had already closed the door and the last thing you saw was his satisfied wide smile.

Gojo's sat down next to you. Tris only squirmed more at the attention being drawn to her and what she was doing.

"What is it you're doing?"

You sighed tiredly. "Trying to learn how to make a paper plane."

"What's that for?" he asked chuckling softly.

"When we were coming up, did you notice the high cliff in the distance?" you asked, and in response, you heard him purr something in agreement. "We launch paper planes from there every year for town day. With wishes. Although..." you stammered, remembering the words written out by your childish hand a long time ago. "It don't have to be wishes. You can write what you feel, or what you love. Anything that would make you happy. Something like that." 

"Can I do that too?" asked Gojo playfully.

"Well...," you stretched out, casting a glance in his direction. "Ya don't seem like a person who doesn't have anything."

He pressed together his glossy lips skeptically and pulled away from you. "That's how."

"I'm sorry," you said softly, shrugging your shoulders. "Apparently I was wrong," fearing where this dialog might lead, you decided to back off. "It's time for bed now. I'll lie down on the floor."

"What do you take me for?" snorted Gojo indignantly, getting up from his chair. He walked over to the closet and busied himself with finding an extra blanket and pillow while you and Tris watched him.

Looking him over from head to toe, Tris lifted her head and looked at you. "Was he born this way?"

Without taking your eyes off his already tall figure, which now stretched to the topmost drawers, you raised your eyebrows. "Yep. He's got the bamboo gene embedded in him."

"Really?" squeaked Tris excitedly.

"I bet."

"I can actually hear everything," mumbled Gojo. Finally pulling out a pillow and blanket, he pouted and began to make himself comfortable on the floor. 

You scooped Tris into your arms as you heard a faint sob. You turned her to face you in a panic, her tears welling up. "I want to sleep with you," she whimpered.

"Couldn't ya have asked without tears?"

You felt a poke at your ankle. "Don't talk like that to a child!" he hissed quietly at you.

You just stepped over him and got into bed with Tris. Climbing under the covers and snuggling in, she giggled happily and triumphantly.

You began to stroke her hair, as was your habit. Soon she stopped squirming and kicking at you, but she was still chattering quietly to herself. You tried not to make any sudden movements so as not to disturb the peace that was coming. Her arms around your waist went slack and she turned her back to you exhaling noisily.

In the room, besides Tris's sniffling, you could hear the ticking of the clock, the second hand seeming to beat against your temples each time. You covered your ear with the blanket, but quickly felt yourself getting hot, even though your feet felt icy cold. You buried your face into the pillow disappointedly.

"Hey," his quiet whisper called out to you. Pulling yourself off the pillow, you saw Gojo resting his chin on the bed looking at you. "Can I join you?" he asked and he was met by your quiet sigh. "I'm old now, my back hurts."

"Ya gave up too quickly," you whispered grinning. A chill ran down the back of his neck.

Gojo crawled slowly into the bed trying to get as comfortable as possible, and kept casting concerned glances at Tris. Finally resting his head on the pillow, he looked up at you. His fingers slowly, inch by inch, came up to your palm and touched it. He gently traced its contours and stroked your knuckles, occasionally giving the pads a gentle squeeze.

You couldn't see his cheeks reddening in the dark anyway - so he thought, not realizing that it wasn't just his cheeks that were reddening, but his ears, and his neck, and probably everything under his clothes. "Why you wearing a mask?" he asked quietly.

"No reason... I just had a theory that the judges don't perceive masked faces. And I... I don't know who judges will have or when. So I prefer to stay in everyone's memories like this."

"You brawling a lot?" whispered Gojo. 

"I don't know, it just makes me feel better," you mumbled averting your gaze.

Watching you, he decided not to push you. The last thing he wanted to do was scare you off. "Got it," he said, but there was a strange, unfamiliar sadness in his voice. "Listen," Gojo stammered hearing his own hoarse whisper, and coughed as quietly as he could. "You... Can you call me by my name, just once in a while?" 

"By name?" you asked confused.

"Hey!" he quickly faltered when his feigned indignant whisper came out too loud. "We've spent so many nights together and you don't even remember my name?"

"You mean Satoru?"

He couldn't find anything to say. Words became a lump in his throat when his name first came out of your mouth. He only nodded hoping you could see that desperate attempt at confirmation in the darkness.

"Okay," you said hiding a smile in your pillow, squeezing his hand "Good night then, Satoru."

"Uh-huh," he barely got it out of him and squeezed his eyes shut, extinguishing his hitched breath against the pillow. He squeezed your hand in return.

You checked on Tris again. She was breathing slowly and deeply - still asleep. You exhaled in relief, gently rubbed the tip of your nose against the top of her head, and waited for Gojo breathing to become the same - measured and deep, hoping you could do the same with him.

***

You gave up at 4:30 in the morning.

The room was hot and cold - you were terribly cold, though sweat ran down your back. Every time you closed your eyes, instead of seeing vivid and fake images, you were only protecting yourself from the intrusive thoughts. You couldn't even turn from side to side to soothe your soul, so as not to wake up two people who were sleeping peacefully.

You climbed over them as carefully as you could, and finally removed the sticking strands from your forehead.

They were sleeping so peacefully. You swallowed bitterly, adjusted the battered blanket and covered them, then moved quietly toward the door. At the door you turned around, opened your mouth as if you wanted to say something, but then stopped and slammed the door shut as you stepped out into the hallway. As you passed the mirror, you looked at yourself, and your reflection looked as if it had been hurt.

You walked down to the kitchen, and the first thing you encountered was Frank's back. "Hey," you quietly called out to him, but his back flinched anyway.

"Not sleeping again?" he mumbled his question stashing something in his pocket.

You approached him silently, and he immediately pushed back near chair inviting you to sit down. Glancing at his pocket, you walked up to him from behind and put your chin on the top of his head hugging him by the shoulders. "Ya miss her?"

"Every day," he whispered. He stroked your forearm, and after smacking the back of yours, he stood up. "Sit. Now that ya're awake, let's have breakfast."

You sat down obediently this time and watched as Frank worked in the kitchen. He took the meat out of the refrigerator, threw it in the oven to heat, while he boiled water, and chopped vegetables for the salad.

When he was done, you had a plate of meat, a bowl of salad, a mug of tea, and a loving father in front of you. "Thank ya," you thanked him picking at the meat with your fork, separating it into fibers.

"No appetite?" he asked popping a piece of tomato into his mouth. "Ya eat your vegetables. It has vitamins in it. Look at Rachel - she ate cabbage all her childhood and no problems. Not physical, not mental."

"Uh-huh," you stretched out, and sipped your tea from your mug. "Only alcoholism, but that's basic."

You received a soft slap. "Eat," he said, but nothing changed: you continued to mash your food with your fork. Frank dropped the cutlery into your plate with a clang. "I can't do this. What's wrong? What's bothering you?" he asked worriedly, lifting your chin with his finger and forcing you to look him in the eye.

You exhaled convulsively, and placed a clear bag of creamy beige dust on the table.

Seeing it, Frank was seized with panic. "How did ya...," he almost gasped. "Fuck, do ya have any idea what those fucking monopolists calling themselves higher-ups will do to ya if they find out about this?"

"Whatever," you waved it off indifferently. "Frank, I have no gardening skills. Especially since the black orchid is a very... um, demanding flower. Ya're the only one who can help me," you looked into his eyes hopefully.

Frank fidgeted tapping his fingers on the table, shifting his gaze from the bag to you, and back again. "What are you planning?"

"Not completely sure yet," you said rubbing your forehead, trying to hide from his eyes. He put his big hands around your face, once again wanting to see honesty.

As soon as he saw your eyes, his own anxiety swept over him. "Ya...," he stammered stroking your cheeks with his thumbs trying to reassure you. "It's okay, it's okay. I'll do everything," he assured you, and with what was the strength of a father's love - cradled you against him as you tried to quiet your ragged breathing. "Come on, let's go to the well," he stroked your back, his fingers feeling every scar whose origin you never told him. "We'll get some fresh air; get some water at the same time. Then ya'll take a bath," you nodded weakly at his suggestion, and rose from your chair as quickly as you could and rushed forward, tugging your blackened hair into a messy ponytail.

***

A rustling sound beneath the window and a soft poke on his cheek finally made him raise his eyes. Not realizing where he was, Gojo sat up jerkily pulling the blanket with him causing Tris, who had been sitting on it, to fall back onto the pillows. 

Panting and squirming, Tris rose again and sat down next to him. "Where's Y/N?" she asked menacingly.

"Where...," Gojo mumbled sleepily, rubbing his face with his hands. "Mom abandoned us," he summed up disappointedly, looking at empty side of the bed. "Are you hungry?"

Tris nodded.

Gojo picked her up in his arms. "Come on then, let's go brush our teeth and I'll make you something," he was prevented from turning around by another crackling sound outside the window. Seeing the familiar flow of cursed energy, still holding Tris in his arms, he walked over to the window, but there was nothing to see because of the patterns; turning the knob, Gojo opened it. 

Down below, in several sweaters and an oversized jacket, hat pulled to the side, Megumi was chopping wood. His cheeks were redder than usual, and he was out of breath; after a moment to catch his breath, Megumi brought the axe over his head once more.

Barely containing his laughter, Gojo reached for his phone. "Smile for the camera!" he shouted, and Megumi darted a glance upward and was greeted by a large number of flashes. Gojo only stopped when the axe flew into the wall with a crack, an inch from the window. "Rude!" he shouted indignantly, and with a jerk he closed the window.

***

Gojo hummed long and thoughtfully as he assessed the contents of the refrigerator. The fridge was full of food - a lot of it, and it was all different. The problem was he had no idea what to do with it. "Do you like scrambled eggs?" he asked glancing at Tris over his shoulder.

"Yeah," she muttered. She was trying to fold the poor paper plane again, and Gojo was already getting a smack on the hand when he tried to help.

Turning on the electric stove, he washed the eggs and beat them straight into the skillet. 'Maybe I should put some milk in it?' he thought to himself rubbing his chin thoughtfully. 'But that would be an omelet, and we agreed on scrambled eggs. Though... Whatever,' and with these thoughts he poured milk into the pan and stirred the resulting mixture with a spatula. "And if I put some cheese in it..." he mumbled aloud.

Ten minutes later, he placed a plate of cheese omelet, neatly sliced tomato and cucumber in front of Tris, and slid her a glass of water and a cup of hot chocolate.

Tris froze. Gojo had managed to distract her from the paper planes after all, and she shyly pushed the plate closer to her. As she tasted what he had prepared for her, she smiled at him for the first time with all her teeth. "Thank ya," she babbled softly.

Gojo chuckled softly. She was too much like you for a foster child.

The front door opened and Frank, paired with the snow falling off him, stepped into the house. "Good morning," he greeted them in a brisk bass and set the huge buckets of water on the floor. "Awake? That's a good thing. Everyone else is already decorating the town, so join."

As soon as she heard the word 'decorate', Tris swept everything off her plate and drained her mug of hot chocolate ignoring the glass of water completely and ran to get dressed.

Looking at her unsuccessful attempts to pull on her boots due to the rush, Gojo reached out to help. "I'll do it myself!" she squirmed. A carbon copy.

After waiting patiently for Tris to get dressed, Gojo took her in his arms and left the house. He didn't even have to ask which way to go; the music was playing in the right place.

Gojo had no sooner come down the hill than he became more and more surprised as people kept coming towards and away from him, and they looked too happy. He didn't know or recognize any of them and probably they didn't know him either, but every person he passed congratulated him with a friendly smile, and he only looked back at them in bewilderment.

All the houses already had garlands that flashed and shimmered, and on every porch hung a wooden 'paper plane' that swayed from side to side. Closer to the center of town, the houses were painted with chaotic lines of color, and the lines shone as brightly as the sun at its zenith. Out of the corner of his eye, Gojo caught a glimpse of Ryan running along one of the houses and running his hand along it leaving a bright red glowing streak on the house.

There was laughter and loud conversations everywhere, he could even hear the cork popping from a bottle of wine. The air was filled with the smells of fresh baked goods, cotton candy and raspberry lemonade.

Some people were standing on stepladders right in front of the house - hanging colorful paper lanterns. A woman shouted at a man to redo everything, because the lanterns looked out of place.

All the roads had been cleared of snow, and it made the town seem bigger than it had the first time. The whole town seemed different from the day before.

Familiar silhouettes appeared on the horizon.

"Y/N!" exclaimed Axel joyfully. "Look what I can do!" he clapped his hands together loudly, and glowing golden sparks sprinkled from them - so tiny they were a hundred times smaller than a firefly. He swung his hands upward in a sudden motion, and the sparks obediently soared into the air flying over the town. "Kyle taught me," he added defiantly.

"Not bad," you said grinning. "It'll be especially nice when it gets dark," you said, and you were about to go back to painting Mike's face, but from over Axel's shoulder came two figures - one so wrapped in winter clothes that it looked like a balloon, and the other with windswept hair that was whiter than snow.

"Finally!" you exclaimed. "I thought ya were gonna oversleep," you gently put your arm around Mike's face and leaned his cheek against yours. "Say, do we look like a tiger?"

"Definitely," laughed Gojo sitting down next to you in the chair. "Now, growl," he turned to Mike. There was a fierce childish growl. Holding back a laugh, you turned Mike around to face you again. As you drew out the black and orange stripes, a bunch of people swept past you, humming and dancing. "So there are a lot of hunters after all," Gojo remarked.

"A couple or three houses would be enough for the hunters, not a whole town," you said concentrating on drawing Mike's stripes. "There's mostly people from the void here."

"You're not bringing them home?" he asked frowning his eyebrows.

"We bring some of them back, of course. We do some memory work, and then we let them go. But the rest... Uh, I don't know. Imagine ya're a coachman from the 18th century, ya've done your day's work and ya're rushing home to your wife and kids. And on the way home, some boogieman drags ya into a completely empty and cold place. And if ya didn't die of cold or disease, ya just wait, and it's unclear what you're waiting for. Death, I guess. Until ya come across a person who carries time with them and can get ya out of there. Only... it isn't your time anymore," you fell silent examining the result on the boy's face. "So ya come out and everywhere instead of horses there are incomprehensible rolling boxes, people talking on some rectangles, and in place of your house and your neighbors' houses now stands a huge shopping mall. And ya are standing there, and ya have no more people you knew, no more profession, no more wife, no more children. Ya'll never come back home again because you don't have it anymore. So that's how Hopetown came to be," and when you were done, you kissed Mike on the top of his head, and he squealed so you wouldn't ruin the coloring and ran off to the other kids to show off.

While you stared at the boy, Gojo looked at you and didn't know whether he wanted to hold you or shake you by the shoulders so you'd come to your senses. Shoko's words about you having no regrets came to mind. 

You could have been anything to him - private, insensitive, hysterical, kind, angry - and he would have understood every feature, but he still couldn't grasp it: how much do you have to love life to have the courage and strength to give another chance to live it to others? You've paid too unfair a price for that.

The only thing he wanted was for you to stop hiding.

When Gojo mustered up the courage to say something to you, you were distracted by a phone notification. 

[11:54am] Frank: Incident. We're short on torches. Go to the storage and see if there are materials

[11:54am] You: Ok

"Can you draw?" you turned to Gojo getting up from your chair

"I can do anything," he said smiling smugly.

You didn't get a chance to say anything before there was a rumble and a clink of broken glass behind you. When you turned around, you saw Danielle slumped on the terrace of the bar and a box lying next to her. Pieces of broken glass were scattered across the terrace, floating in the spilled wine. "Dany," you mumbled worriedly, running up to her. There was a crunching sound of glass beneath your feet. "What's wrong with ya lately?" you asked wrapping your arms around her waist and lifting her to her feet. Her pale face looked up at you, not even pink from the freezing cold.

"Nothing," she muttered smiling weakly. "Not feeling well lately, a little sickening."

You rounded your eyes. "Dany," you whispered, and leaned closer to her ear. "Did ya take pregnancy test?"

"What?" she resented weakly. "No, I haven't, we haven't yet... We... Well, uh, ya know," she burrowed into the collar of her jacket in shame.

"Okay," you nodded. "Come on, I'll walk you home."

A concerned Megumi ran up to you. "Is everything okay?" he asked excitedly, and you stepped aside giving him access. "I'll walk her over," picking her up by the waist, he told you. 

As you watched them follow, Gojo came up behind you from behind and put his hands on your shoulders. "What happened?"

"I don't know," you shook your head chewing on the pad of your thumb without realizing it. "What ya doing here?" you asked turning back to him. "The kids are waiting for ya, go on."

"I can actually help out in the storage too," Gojo muttered pouting his lips.

"You've already got an assignment and I'll manage on my own somehow," he snorted something grudgingly in protest, but went back to the kids nonetheless. 

You slipped your jacket over your shoulders and tied your scarf around your neck, and headed for the storage. You were about to round the corner of the house when Itadori called out to you. "Wait, I'm coming with you! We're out of paper lanterns!"

"Where ya going without a jacket, ya dumbass!" shouted Axel after him. "It's half an hour to the storage, put it on!"

***

You wandered between the racks, Itadori searching the shelves for boxes of decoration, and you looked around every corner of the room for a barrel of resin. Finally, seeing a yellow cross-painted in paint on one of the barrels, you approached it. "Itadori, give me a hand," the kid immediately jumped down from the rack and was beside you.

The two of you dragged the barrel to a table that stood against the wall, on which empty crates of wooden sticks and old rags already stood. "Do you need help?" asked Itadori sincerely.

"Nope," you patted him on the top of his head, and took a stick from the drawer. "Grab your decoration and run to the others, I'll be right back."

"Got it," Itadori said, and in two jumps, he was already at the rack where he'd left his box. You were already holding the end of the stick in the resin, slowly cranking it, and behind you came Yuji's confused voice that mumbled 'Hello', but no one answered him. You rolled your eyes, and taking the tip of the stick out of the barrel, tapped it against the edge to get rid of the excess tar. 

A glimmer of golden hair and the outline of a sharp chin showed from the side. "Good afternoon," Nathaniel greeted you taking one of the sticks and dipping it in the tar. Meanwhile, you were winding the rag around yours trying to get the fabric as tight as possible. "How's the work coming along?"

"Not bad," you said sniffing your nose. "Although there are getting to be too many loners in the void. Ya know anything about that?"

"That's not our area of responsibility," Nathaniel noted phlegmatically. "How's Frank doing?"

"He's fine."

"How's everyone else doing?" he kept trying to keep the idle conversation going by handing you a stick and picking up the next one.

"Same."

"You haven't found a settlement yet?"

There was the sound of tearing fabric. You wrapped the torch tightly around it, and folded it neatly into the empty box. "That's not your area of responsibility. The small talk has gone on long enough."

"Tell me, since when do you stick to the tactic of keeping your enemies close?"

"What are ya talking about?" you ask without taking your eyes off the case.

Nathaniel exhaled irritably, the overly forceful impact of the stick hitting the metal barrel echoed throughout the large storage. "You're aware the kid stayed near you, only to finish you off?"

"Well...," you stretched out chuckling. "I suspected something was amiss. I couldn't have such a miracle fall on my head for free."

"Is this a joke to you?" hissed Nathaniel, oblivious to the torches. You were calmly wrapping the cloth around another stick. "He's been walking all over you for a year now, how do you live with it?"

"A year, ya say," you thought for a moment. "You mean he made a deal with ya a year ago?

"With Christian," Nathaniel pointed out, and noticing your indifferent state, began to calm down himself. "Yes, almost a year ago."

"Well, why did you mess with my head?" you asked, and tossed the finished torch into the empty box not so neatly anymore. "What was it you said back then? 'They are planning something'? Couldn't you have said it sooner?"

"You mean why didn't I give details near our headquarters? You could have thanked me for warning you at all."

"Well, thank you."

"Get rid of him," Nathaniel hissed sternly as if commanding.

"Uh?" you went into a momentary stupor. "I won't do that. He's had a year to kill me and he hasn't even tried."

"Because he knows that- Ahem, that you can't be killed in this state," Nathaniel paused hoping nothing would happen. "He's been notified that your emotions make you weaker-"

"My emotions make me stronger," you interrupted him in a stubborn tone, but further on your voice grew weaker with each word. "But nothing good about that," you added in a near whisper.

"If you don't want to kill him yourself, then order me to."

The skin on your wrist hissed. "Ouch!" you exclaimed quietly rubbing a tiny glowing crosshair on the sore spot. "It hurts," you blurted out glaring at him. "Look, I know going around in debt is a nasty business, but I'm gonna to order ya to do it."

"Then why did you even make me promise to you if you don't use it?" he asked irritably.

"Uh... for fun?" you replied shrugging your shoulders in doubt. "I did you a favor, and you had nothing to charge at the time. Well I just wanted to test how the promise system works. Actually, I don't give a damn what you're saying. He's not that kind of person. Don't mess with my head."

"I shouldn't have approached you in the first place. You're just...," he sighed contritely, resting his hands on the table, not looking up at you. "You're the most immature and irresponsible person I've ever met," he shook his head dejectedly. "Even when I communicate the threat directly to you, you can't get rid of it," he met only your silence, your blank stare, and the mechanical movements of the hands that tied the cloth on the torch. "God," he said in a hoarse voice. "Don't tell me you're in love with the kid."

***

Itadori had stuffed too much into his box - he had to keep peering out from behind the mountain of paper lanterns stopping every now and then to avoid slipping.

Once again, Yuji looked out and spotted the familiar figures, and took in more air. "Hey! Need help!" he shouted. Axel immediately ran over to him, and promptly dumped half of the contents of the box into his own. "Thanks," Itadori said smiling.

Gojo watched all this perplexedly, completely forgetting that he was drawing a frog on Tris's face. "Itadori!" he called out to Yuji, and the boy setting the box down, ran up to his teacher. "Where's Y/N?"

"She stayed in the storage," murmured Itadori tiredly but cheerfully. "Some other man came to see her and..."

What?

"...he didn't even say hello back. He's kinda old, I didn't know that elderly could be so rude. But he has cool hair color, golden, I think..."

What?

"...he seemed to stay there with her."

If Yuji had said another word, a painful whimper would have come out of Gojo. His eyes blurred and he could barely squeeze out words while maintaining his usual attitude. "Itadori, where's the storage?"

"Over there," Itadori said pointing to the bridge. "Over the bridge and immediately to the right, that big hangar with the red doors. Sensei?" asked Itadori dumbly when he saw Gojo immediately dash toward the storage.

***

Gojo leaned his forehead against the cold metal door and frantically tried to catch his breath. His side stung, and his heart was beating so furiously that he didn't know whether it was the sound of snow crunching under his feet or his ribs breaking. He could hear your voices, but mostly Nathaniel's - you were either silent or humming. Gojo squeezed his eyes shut with force trying to listen.

"...for what it's worth. I'm not thrilled with our current politics myself, but I guess I'll agree with them on this one. You don't belong in this world."

Gojo's chest ached when he heard your voice. You sounded confused. "I don’t belong in their world either. Where should I go, then?"

"You have the answer to that question. Only you don't have the guts or the courage to do it," Gojo felt like tearing Nathaniel's vocal cords out. He didn't dare speak to you in such a condescending tone. No one did.

"Hey!" Gojo's shout was more like a growl, but turning toward him, you saw nothing but a casual, serene smile. "Frank said you need help here," he said in a soft voice. Gojo came over to you and put his arm around your shoulder, furtively throwing a warning glance at Nathaniel.

"Deal with it yourself," Nathaniel tossed over his shoulder waving his hand carelessly in farewell.

Gojo gave him a look, and after making sure that this dirt was no longer here, cupped your cheeks. "Everything okay?" he tried his best to hide the worry in his voice.

"Yeah...," you stretched out. "Yeah, everything's okay," you added in a more confident voice. "I just got another round of bad for doing things the wrong way."

His hands slid down your back, and he pulled you against him. "You know," Gojo mumbled into the top of your head. "I've cut out my higher-ups. I can do the same with yours, if you want." 

You chuckled weakly. "I see ya're bloodthirsty."

"You bet," Gojo confirmed nose burrowing into your hair.

You didn't put your hand on his waist, didn't ruffle his hair, didn't nuzzle your nose into his neck, and it was the first time you hadn't responded to his touch. A chill ran down his back, and he gripped the fabric of your jacket tighter with sweaty palms. He was willing to do anything stupid or say anything nonsensical to get you to do something.

"I wouldn't mind it myself, but the hunters would revolt. I'm not sure I have the strength to fight on two fronts," you said. You don't have the strength? That sounded like utter nonsense. Or are there some other forces he's not aware of? "Ya're kinda here to help," you remarked poking him in the side. He exhaled in relief.

"So what you're saying," he began gently nibbling your sides, which made you laugh softly and squirm. "That hugs are useless?"

Sure, hugs were helpful - they produce oxytocin in the brain. Nevertheless, right now you felt like you'd first fallen into a trap from which there was no escape.

next ⊳

[i-literally-cant-with-this]

A/N ::: *scratches neck* I'd like to promise you all that this is going somewhere. I'm trying my hardest.

C/W ::: Fighting between Kats and F!reader, general bad feels.

WC ::: Under 800

Part I

Part II

Part III

Part V

Part VI

Part VII

Part IV

You stayed at Katsuki's apartment for another couple of hours, both of you just sitting on the couch in near total silence. You wanted to talk. But you couldn't bring yourself to do it. He wouldn't get it. You wouldn't be able to find the words that would make him see why you had to go.

It was the middle of the day when you finally stood up and went to the bedroom. You pulled the drawer open and looked at your clothes. They smelled like him. Like the two of you. It was a mixture of his natural scent and whatever laundry detergent you both used. It was a smell that you didn't think you'd ever get out of your nose.

You took a deep breath and grabbed handfuls of shirts, pants, bras, underwear. You shoved them into your bag and walked out to the kitchen, where Katsuki was standing over the sink. He didn't look up at you. He was looking down at the key in his hands. You could see his eyes were red and swollen. He had been crying, or trying his hardest not to.

He looked up at you and nodded. "You feel better now?" Katsuki asked you. You stood there, eyes and arms wide, holding all of the stuff you gathered up and put in your bag.

"W-what do you mean, do I feel better now? Of course I don't. Why the fuck would I feel better?" You had no idea why he was asking you that. But you were very in tune with him, still, and had a feeling that he was about to explain the reason behind his question. Though it really felt more like an accusation.

Katsuki shrugged and turned back to the sink, running his fingers through his hair, ruffling the top of it like he always does when he's pissed about something. "Well, I don't know. Sometimes you act like you're the only one who has shit they want to run away from. Like you're the only little princess in the world who's got shit on her plate that she don't wanna eat. You think I don't wanna run away? Well, news-fuckin'-flash, darlin'. I fuckin' want to." He was almost yelling.

Your shoulders slumped at his words. "Is that ... that's what you think? That I don't want to eat something on this plate of life and I'm just scooping it off into the garbage and then fishing around for dessert? Y'know, you have a lot of fuckin' nerve comin' at me like this. Insinuating that I'm selfish. You had a fucking bed built into the wall of your shiny new office -"

"That's my job, y/n! It's a part of my goddamn life. A huge part! Why can't you differentiate between my job and my personal lif-" He started.

"Because YOU couldn't! Katsuki, Jesus. You were the one that couldn't turn your cell off at dinner. And that's when you were home for dinner. There were times you didn't come home for days at a time. Why wasn't I a huge part of your life? Don't you start in on that shit about how I didn't know how to separate the two. I can separate plenty." You put your hand over your mouth at the explosion of words that came.

"Yeah," he huffed. "I can see that." He said, sounding so defeated it broke your heart all over again. "Meanwhile, I'm here, holding shit together. Cleaning up the shrapnel of your goddamn collateral damage. I'm not the one who hurt you. You're a selfish brat. When the spotlight isn't on you for 5 seconds, you throw a hissy fit and move on." He was throwing his arms around now. You could see that eternal fire burning out of control in his eyes.

"I'm ... what the fuck. I'm selfish? I'M selfish?! And what collateral damage? What shrapnel are you having to clean up? I'm pretty sure that I left no mess in my wake." Your eyes were narrowed so much you could barely see him anymore.

"Oh, you left a mess all right. A fuckin' tsunami leaves less damage than you." He laughed a little at his analogy but quickly sobered up, letting the smile subside to make room for his classic scowl.

"A tsunami?" You repeated, incredulous. "Are you fucking kidding me? What did I do to deserve that comparison? I was the one who was always here for you. I was the one who went out of my way to make sure you had a warm meal to come home to. And half the time you didn't even call to tell me you weren't going to be home when you thought you'd be or that you weren't going to be home at all."

You wanted to slap him. You wanted to wipe that stupid scowl right off of his stupid face. But he was always 2 steps ahead of you. He knew your tells. What your breaking points were. Katsuki always saw them coming from a mile away.

You started to cry. You couldn't believe that this is where you'd ended up. That this was the final scene in your love story.

Taglist ::: @darkstarlight82 @millennialmagicalgirl @arlerts-angel