#i told one of my friends about this today and she was like ‘are you from a fucking hp lovecraft novella’ i don’t KNOW

[mind-empty-just-fictional-people]

(pre-relationship) Frank Langdon x Reader idea:

These two don't know yet that they like each other yet -- "I only got [Reader/Frank] a pack of sour gummy worms because they haven't eaten yet, their blood sugar is probably low and I wanted to be nice" "What do you mean 'it's weird that I gave [Reader/Frank] a long hug'? They just lost a patient, they needed the comfort" "I'm asking [Reader/Frank] all these in-depth questions because I'm their friend, it's normal for friends to want to know more about each other" etc. etc. etc. Just to set the scene. It's unbearably obvious to everyone else, but not to them.

Anyways. They're at that stage of their (inevitable) relationship. And here comes a patient -- some smarmy dude who thinks he's charismatic, but is really just a creep -- who needs a truly impressive number stitches (or a thousand pieces of gravel that needs to be picked out one by one). Reader gets stuck having to care for this guy, and he's just making it a miserable time for Reader. Reader feels trapped, not sure if they could stop and get someone else to help out instead, when Frank steps in and freaks out a little on this guy (nothing bad, but definitely not professional lmao).

Later, Dana (who's scolding Frank for his unprofessional behavior) tells him "dude. Would you even be reacting that strongly if you didn't have feelings for Reader?" Boom -- Frank's sudden epiphany that oh, maybe I do like Reader.

(Meanwhile Kiara is checking in on Reader, and due to their conversation Reader also realizes oh, maybe I do like Frank.)

Hold Up

main masterlist | the pitt masterlist

summary: you and frank realize you have feelings for each other 

pairing: dr. frank langdon x female reader

rating: R for language, pitt level heavyness

word count: 1.2k

warnings: death of a child, man being creepy toward reader, that's it i think 

author’s note: i absolutely love this idea anon, and i hope i did it justice <3

“How many hours left in this shift?” Langdon sighed and leaned next to you against the front desk.

You checked your watch; “Four hours and twenty-seven minutes,” you answered his question.

“So excited to get the fuck outta here,” he said.

“What’re you doing after work?”

“Nothing much; just me, my dog, my TV, and take out.”

“Ah, sounds like a dream, Langdon,” you said.

“Oh, it is, for sure,” he laughed. “I noticed you haven’t eaten in a while, so I got you these from the vending machine and the food cart.” He handed you a sandwich and a pack of sour gummy worms.

“My favorite! Thanks, Langdon,” you exclaimed.

“Anytime,” he replied and got right back to work.

Robby noticed the little interaction and furrowed his brows as he watched you head to the break room for a quick lunch.

“What was that about?” he asked Langdon, walking up next to him.

“Y/n hadn’t eaten yet today,” Frank replied nonchalantly. “Her blood sugar’s probably low, I was just being nice.”

“So you bought her candy?”

“I knew she wouldn’t bother eating unless I lured her in with sour gummy worms,” Frank chuckled. “Smart, right?”

“Uh… yeah. How’d you know she likes sour gummy worms?”

“Everybody does.” Frank shrugged before being called to help a patient.

“No, they don’t,” Robby mumbled to himself.

**

“Hey, it’s not your fault,” you told him. You reached out and held his hand in yours as you repeated the words. “This was not your fault.”

“I know,” he said, but you knew he didn’t believe himself. Frank had just lost a patient, a ten-year-old car accident victim.

You asked if he wanted a hug, and he replied by wrapping his arms around you. You returned the gesture and squeezed him tightly.

“Wasn’t your fault,” you said again.

“Thank you,” he mumbled.

After a minute or two, he pulled away from the hug. He thanked you again before he went to help another patient.

“What was that about?” Dana asked you, her brows furrowed.

“What was what about?” you asked half-heartedly, looking up at the screens to pick out a patient.

“Why were you hugging Langdon for so long?” she asked.

“Oh, he lost a patient,” you replied.

“So you had to hug him for that long?” she chuckled a little. 

“He needed the comfort.” You shrugged. “Ooh, nose job gone wrong? I’ll take that one,” you said and went to go grab the patient.

“These two, I swear,” Dana scoffed with a laugh, shaking her head with amusement.

**

“If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live?” Frank asked you.

“Ooh, that’s a tough one. I’ll get back to you on that,” you said before being whisked away to help a patient. 

“What’s up with you and Langdon?” Samira asked. 

“What do you mean?” you asked, focused on the patient and not fully paying attention to Dr. Mohan.

“Why are you and Langdon going back and forth with so many questions?”

“Oh, we’re playing this game where we ask each other a question every time we see each other. It helps pass the time.”

“Huh, strange game…”

“We’re friends,” you started, still fully focused on the patient, “we just want to get to know each other better.”

**

There was one patient no one wanted to take because they’d met him before, and all he did was hit on the women working there the whole time. You reluctantly took him as your patient (without Langdon knowing), and you had begun to despise him. His rude comments and gestures were only getting worse.

“C’mon, sweetheart; you, me, a bottle of wine at my place? Whaddaya say?” He smirked and reached out to touch you.

“What the hell is going on in here?” Frank exclaimed, much louder than he intended, and gained the attention of everyone around him. 

“Nothing–” the man started, but Frank cut him off.

“You listen here, Dr. Y/l/n is not here to date you, and by the looks of it, she doesn’t want to be here at all. Now you are gonna man up and take a ‘no’ like a normal person, or I will escort you out myself.” Langdon stood there, fuming mad. “Do I make myself clear?”

“Yes, sir,” the man gulped.

“Yes, doctor,” Langdon corrected.

“Yes, doctor,” the man replied.

“Is everything okay in here?” Robby poked his head in. 

“Everything’s fine,” Langdon said.

**

Kiara wanted to talk with you briefly after the incident, although you told her you were fine.

“I’m sure you were happy when Dr. Langdon came to your rescue,” she remarked.

“Yeah, he’s a great friend,” you said.

“I’ve been meaning to talk with you about that. You know you’re allowed to date your coworkers, right?”

“Are you asking me out?” you teased.

“I meant,” she laughed a little, “you and Langdon.”

“Oh, we’re just friends.” You furrowed your brows.

“Sure,” Kiara said. She said something else before she left, but you weren’t really listening.

Hold up… did you like Langdon?

Meanwhile, Dana was busy scolding Frank for his behavior with the patient.

“Come on, Dana, you know I was doing the right thing, standing up to that guy,” Langdon scoffed.

“We all know how annoying that man is, but you can’t threaten a patient!” Dana exclaimed.

“I was only doing what no one else had the guts to do,” he replied. “Ask anyone, they wanted to do the same thing!”

“Come on, Langdon, you’d only be reacting like this if you had feelings for Dr. Y/l/n!”

“I–” Frank stopped. Hold up… he did have feelings for you, strong feelings. “I don’t have feelings for her?”

“Sure, kiddo,” Dana said in a playfully condescending tone before she turned to walk away.

“We’re just friends!” he called out after her.

“Well, your ‘friend’ is in the breakroom if you wanna go talk to her,” Dana said, using air quotes as she continued to walk away.

“Shit,” Langdon mumbled to himself. 

“Go,” Robby said to him.

“Huh?”

“Go talk to her, I’ll cover your patients.”

“Thank you.”

**

“So… that was something,” Langdon said, as he walked into the breakroom and found you staring at the vending machine. 

“There are no sour gummy worms in this vending machine,” you pondered out loud, wondering where Langdon had gotten the bag from earlier.

“No, but the one on the second floor has them.”

“You went all the way to the second floor just to make sure I ate something?” you asked.

“Yeah.” Langdon stood in front of you. “There’s a lot I’d do for you.”

“Really?”

“I think I have feelings for you,” he sighed. “I’m sorry, I know that’s not what you want to hear.”

“I think it’s exactly what I wanna hear, Frank,” you admitted. “I think I have feelings for you, too.”

“So… what do we do now?”

“You could kiss me, if you wanna.”

His face lit up before he leaned down and kissed you deeply. His hands went to your hips as yours went to his cheeks. You stayed locked in the passionate kiss for what felt like hours before you both broke away.

“I think you might be my best friend,” Langdon whispered, making you smile widely.

“I think you might be my best friend, too, Langdon.”

[astr-venus]

｡⁠☆I'm Baby｡⁠.ﾟ⁠+⁠ 

☆Tim drake x reader

☆Cw: Damian being a menace, crack/fluff

To be honest, Damian was only getting close to you to bother Drake. He didn't really have a reason for it either, but bothering is pseudo older brother is entertaining, fun even.

It's not tranquil, like painting. It's not rewarding, like training. It's not adrenaline filled, like patrol. No, it's just... Fun.

Damian can't even explain why it's fun either. There's just something about the look of utter anguish, irritation, that crosses Drake's face that just makes him smile.

It's an evil little thing, all sharp teeth and hard lines. Nothing like those big grins you see kids have in childish movies. No, he looks like a shark in fish infested waters. Like a wolf locked in a pen of sheep.

So imagine his surprise when you derail his plans by being likeable. You're clever, and kind, but not smothering like Grayson. He didn't start showing up at your window to actually get close to you, and yet here is, tucked into your side as he vents about school today.

The people at his school are utter imbeciles, and he only goes to appease his father. Not that he understands why his father sends him. He already has a friend his age, Jon! He's sure you'd be his friend too, if he asked.

... Even the thought of doing that is too humiliating to fathom.

He's sure you'd just look at him with that dumb smile that makes his chest feel tight, and you'd probably pet down his hair, and say something like "Of course we're friends! Why else would I let you crash on my couch after patrol?" Because you're good like that, and always give reasons why you do and feel things.

But he'd rather drop dead than be perceived as childish or immature. Asking someone to be your friend is playground chat, and Damian stopped going to a school with a playground this year so he's much too old for that. Instead he just rambles about how many times he's had to correct his teacher this year, because if he thinks the kids are stupid don't get him started on the adults.

You listen the whole way through, an arm wrapped around his shoulder. He's practically squished to your side. He planted himself there as soon as he got through the lock on your front door, but you don't say anything about it, you never do. It's much more tolerable than Grayson's constant cooing.

"And do you know what the worst part is?" Damian huffs, a balled fist gripping your pants.

"What?"

"She tried to correct me on the Greek Pantheon, me! It's as if my chosen aunt isn't Princess Diana of Themscryia! Imbeciles, everyone of them!"

You nod solemnly, clearly understanding Damian's plight. This is why he comes to you, no one at that blasted manor gets it. They would try and correct him, teach him to be more understanding, but you just listen! You listen, and commiserate! Like any good sibling should.

"I used to have a teacher like that. It turned out no matter what I told him, no matter what evidence I presented, he just decided that I was a lost cause anyway." You roll your eyes, picking at the stitching of Damian's sleeve. He should probably stop you, but he can't even bring himself to give the gesture a glance of his attention. "I ended up transferring out of the class, my peace was not worth the credit. I just took it online instead."

"If only father were that understanding. I would take every class online if I could."

"What, there isn't a single thing you enjoy about school? When I was your age I only ever showed up for extracurriculars, but they managed to at least make it a little worth it for me."

Damian wants to say no, "My art and art teacher isn't deplorable." But that would be a lie.

"What're they-"

The lock of your farthest window clicks, interrupting you. Damian slips a blade out of the pocket of his school uniform, but doesn't bother moving. A measley intruder won't stand a chance against him, especially because they would be interrupting his you time.

A foot slides in through the open window. Black slacks, he can tell by the hemlines they're expensive. The shoes are glossy, but slightly scuffed, also clearly expensive.

Damian glares, he knows exactly who this is. The grip of his blade gets tighter.

"Hey babe." Drake greets, pulling his satchel in the window before closing it. "You'll never believe the day I had at work-"

Damian and Drake lock eyes. He can feel his eyes turn into giddy crescents as Tim's face falls into disbelief. Yes, this is the exact feeling he's been waiting for. He could revel in that disgusted expression he has.

"What's he doing here?" Drake sneered.

"Don't be rude."

"Wha- I'm not being rude. I just- baby, sweetheart, why the fuck is my little brother in your apartment?"

For his part, Damian just snuggles closer to you, causing you to squeeze him tighter. If it's even possible, he looks even more smug than he did before. All according to plan.

"I invited him. He likes to hangout after school sometimes." You smile, it's genuine, as if you're completely oblivious to why this would distress Tim. They both know you well enough to know you're having just as much fun fucking with your boyfriend as Damian is.

"You know each other? You do this regularly??"

"No thanks to you. I've only met your family once and it was in passing, Tim! What was I supposed to do, tell him to leave? He's just a baby!"

Under normal circumstances, Damian would grow irate at being called a baby. He is ten years old, in double digits, basically an adult! However, annoying Drake takes precedence right now.

"Yeah Drake, I'm just a baby." Damian says flatly. "I'm just a baby, and you're scaring me."

You gasp. "Timothy you're scaring my baby!"

"That demon is NOT a baby! Are you under mind control? Blink twice if you need help."

Your hand tugs Damian into your chest, and you plant a kiss on his forehead. His demonic smile wavers for a moment as a flush hits his cheeks, that same icky syrup-like feeling you tend to give him curling in his chest. It comes right back when he sees that absolute offended and affronted look on Drake's face.

This is the best day of his life.

"If you don't start being nice to this sweet baby angel right this second, I'll have to throw you out of my apartment. Sorry Tim, those are the rules."

"You just made that up, those- that's- those aren't the rules!"

Damian pulls out of your hold to sit up straight on the couch, re-pulling out his switchblade. It glints off the yellowish lighting in your apartment, the same glint in his wolfish grin.

"Please." He stands. "It would be an honor if you would allow me."

You pretend to think about it, a matching mischievous look on your face. "Hmm okay, but only because you asked so nicely.

"I'm sorry Tim, but I don't make the rules, I just follow them."

"I'm not sorry." Damian brags.

"Shut it, brat."

Tim begins to climb back out the window, huffing as his satchel gets stuck on the sill for the second time. His head pokes back in before he closes it, a glare, that would be terrifying if Damian was anyone else, on his face.

"This isn't over."

"I disagree."

The window slams shut, and Damian slots himself right back where he was before. Both of you have the evilist of giggles as you basket on the high of teasing Tim Drake.

Despite his shitty day at school, it's a good day, anyway.

You only played along bc Tim's been ignoring you for the sake of work, leaving his stabby little brother here to satiate your boredom. This is petty revenge.

Damian also becomes the biggest cock block in the world after this. You think it's funny, Tim not so much.

Also planning on writing a short follow up to this where Tim comes to you after patrol and needs reassurance.

｡⁠☆Requests open

[neonghostlights]

Rose

Tattoo artist!reader x Eddie Munson

A repost from my old blog.

The ask:

Listen- listen carefully- okay?

okay so

so

Eddie, right? Eddie, with a tattoo artist crush??!! like cmon. The possibilities are endless!

how does he confess? What are their dates like? How do they spend quality time together? So many questions, not many answers. (Fem reader pls-) 🍋-

The answer:

The bell attached to the shop door dinged when Eddie walked in. The floors were clean, polished. That was something he always checked when he walked into tattoo shops. Back in highschool he didn’t particularly care about the cleanliness of tattoos, just getting whatever he wanted etched into his skin in his buddies trailer. After seeing the outcome of a particularly nasty skin infection Gareth got one time that left his tattoo looking like a jumbled mess, Eddie cared a little more now.

Robin had begged him to stop by and check out her new job as a part time receptionist at the best (only) tattoo shop in Hawkins, Indiana. Eddie was a little surprised to see you here since he had seen your work done in one or two magazines before. You were somewhat of a celebrity in the tattooing world, having won quite a few awards for your art.

Steve had told him that Robin had been terrified to start here, since your reputation was well known. But after the first day she came home gushing about how great you were and insisted that Eddie swing by to meet you as soon as possible.

Low rock music played from a speaker in the corner of the room. Black leather couches and chairs surrounded a coffee table full of binders and magazines. Artwork, presumably yours, covered the walls top to bottom. Eddie usually drew up his own designs when getting work done but yours were so good that he wouldn’t mind having one of your pre-drawn designs placed on his body. He could smell the fresh paint still lingering in the air, telling just how recent the shop had been opened.

“Hey!” Robin greeted him from behind the clear glass counter. “Welcome!”

“Nice looking place,” Eddie said with a low whistle.

“Right,” she said with a fake whisper. “You think you want to get something done?”

“Nah, not today. I didn’t draw anything up.”

Robin rolled her eyes, knowing Eddie was picky about what he wanted done. She couldn’t blame him. She had an orange tattooed on her foot after a drunk spring break dare from Steve that looked more like a basketball.

“Hey, Rob?” Your voice broke out, muffled by the rock still playing on the radio. Eddie heard the sound of wheels rolling across the floor as you scooted your rolling chair out of the room you were working in and backing out into the hallway. “You wanna order some lunch?” You asked once you were fully in the hallway.

Eddie had seen a lot of attractive people before but none of them had made his heart stop quite the way you did.

“Oh, hi,” you said, startled to see Eddie standing there. “Were you looking to get something done?” You asked, standing from your chair and approaching him.

Eddie froze. All thoughts escaped his brain as you walked towards him. He could see the skin of your legs through your ripped jeans and Eddie had never thought a kneecap was so sexy before.

“This is my friend Eddie. He just came by to check out the shop. Right, Eddie?” Robin plucked his cheek to try to reboot him.

The magazines had never included your picture, but he wished they had so he wouldn’t be standing here like an idiot. He had a feeling that your picture printed on glossy paper wouldn’t do you any justice.

Eddie winced at the sharp sting of his cheek, rubbing at the stubble there.

“Hi,” was all he was able to croak out, sticking his hand out to you.

You smirked a knowing smirk at him that made him feel embarrassed from how obvious he was being. He was usually the one that was smirking to make people melt, not the other way around and it made his head spin.

You gripped his hand, firmly giving it a little shake. Eddie didn’t want to let go, but finally did, realizing how sweaty his palm had gotten. He tried to discreetly wipe it against his jeans. If you felt it, you didn’t say anything.

“So, Eddie, did you want to get a tattoo today?” You asked, head tilted as you looked him up and down.

“He said no-”

“Yes. Yes I do,” he said, cutting Robin off.

Robin looked like she was about to die of laughter. Eddie knew she would be itching to grab the phone and call Steve to tell him all about the way Eddie was acting. He knew there would surely be some jokes cracked at his expense during the next family dinner. But he couldn’t bring himself to care all that much.

You tilted your head, like you were studying him, picking him apart to make sure he was actually worthy of having your art on his skin forever. Eddie would let you draw on his bones if you were able to. Shit, he’d hand you the pick and chisel.

“Okay,” you said slowly. “Have any idea of what you want to get?”

“Uh…” Eddie trailed, eyes darting to the artwork around the shop. “You choose.”

You frowned. “You want me to choose your tattoo for you?”

Eddie nodded, already too far in to back out now.

“And you’re sure? Completely?” You checked as Robin started pulling out paperwork for Eddie to sign.

“Oh, yeah. I’m sure.”

—

Three months later and the bell dinged over the shop door. You could hear it from your office where you had low music playing as you sketched away at an idea you had. It was getting closer to the holidays and the shop was less busy. People usually liked to spend their money on presents and food this time of year instead of tattoos. You knew January was going to pick back up again so you weren’t worried.

You could hear Robin laughing at something up front, probably at whoever just came through the door. You heard the familiar sound of boots come your way and it brought a smile to your lips.

His knuckles rapped against the door a few times. This had become a routine since Eddie let you tattoo him a few months ago. He had gotten a couple more done by you, each more intricate than the last. But some days he would stop by just to say hi to you, like he probably was today. You never let other customers come to your office like this. Eddie was special.

“Hey,” you greeted him, turning in your chair. You dropped the pencil you were using to your desk, ready to give your hand a break for a bit.

Eddie smiled as he leaned against the door frame. “What are you working on?”

You held up the sketch pad. It was a drawing of a dragon taking flight. It was small, simple with just enough detail to not overpower it. If someone ever wanted this you could of course add anything to it.

“That’s sick,” Eddie said as he came closer, humming as he assessed the drawing.

“It’s not done yet. I need a little more time with it,” you explained, feeling a little self conscious about your art, something you hadn’t experienced until you realized shortly after meeting Eddie that you always wanted to impress him.

“Is it for a customer?” He asked.

“No. Just an idea I had,” you said as you set it back down on your desk.

“Can I get it?”

You tilted your head as you looked up at Eddie. His hair framed his face where he was still looking down at the drawing with intensity, avoiding your eye contact now for some reason. You could see the rose tattoo on his arm, the first one you gave him on the day you met. You didn’t tell Eddie what you were tattooing until you were done. You knew it was a risk, not many men wanted a flower tattooed on them. But this one seemed like it fitted him.

After you had tattooed the rose he stared at it with teary eyes. You thought you had really messed up until he told you that Rose was his late mothers middle name. After that, the dynamic seemed to change, bringing you even closer even though you two had just met.

“I mean if you want but it’s really not done and I-”

“I think it’s perfect,” Eddie interrupted, finally looking up at you with a small smile.

You took a deep breath at the intensity of his stare before leading him back to the room to be tattooed.

–

You had Eddie lay back in the reclining chair. It was laid back to be as flat as a table so you had better access to his ribs.

You explained to him that the ribs were going to hurt pretty bad even though he was no stranger to tattoo pain. He just laughed it off and asked if you could hold his hand when he starts to cry.

You rolled your eyes, pushing away the butterflies at the thought of holding his hand in yours. You didn’t really like emotions. You’d prefer to spend your time alone, drawing with nothing to complicate your life. It had been a battle the past three months of knowing Eddie. You were constantly denying the way you felt and it was getting harder and harder each time you saw him.

Eddie closed his eyes and laid mostly still except for the occasional twitch and tapping he would do. He was uncharacteristically quiet today and you found yourself going through most of his tattoo without him even saying a word. That wasn’t normal.

“Are you doing okay?” You asked as you gathered more ink. “If it’s too much we can stop for today.”

“No,” he said loudly, practically jumping off the table at your offer. He cleared his throat looking embarrassed before he slowly laid back down.

“Are you sure?” You checked again, giving him the opportunity to quit if he wanted to.

“Yeah. I’m sure,” he said with a nod as he closed his eyes again.

You went back to tattooing, trying to figure out why he was acting this way. He seemed nervous to be around you today and you weren’t sure why. It didn’t make sense. He was usually a blushing, stumbling mess around you and now suddenly he was acting like this tattoo was the most serious thing he had ever done.

“You need me to hold your hand?” You joked, trying to lighten the mood.

Eddie giggled nervously with his eyes still closed. You watched him wipe his palm discreetly against his jeans.

You had a feeling you knew what was going on here. It was a feeling you had from the first day you met him and he not so subtly asked you out. When you tattooed him that first day, he seemed to cover up his nerves well by joking with you and asking you questions about yourself. You could ask him, see what he says. The worst he could say is no. You usually had a good eye for things like this and Eddie had all the signs.

“You know next time you can just ask me out on a date instead of having me tattoo you,” you said as you cleaned the fresh ink off the now finished tattoo.

Eddie’s eyes shot open in a flash. He sat up, wincing at the tender skin on his ribs.

“Wait!” You yelled as you grabbed a cloth and cleanser. “I need to clean it before you get up.”

Eddie ignored your demands. “Did Robin tell you?” He asked, looking defeated.

“No,” you said as you wiped at the skin from the new position he sat in. “You were just acting kind of weird so I figured that might have been what was going on.”

Eddie sighed deeply.

“If I read that wrong and totally made this awkward just tell me,” you said quickly.

“No,” Eddie rushed out. “No. You were right. I didn’t realize I was that obvious.”

You laughed and shook your head. “You were just a little obvious.”

You motioned for Eddie to stand up and take a look in the mirror. He whistled as he looked at the fresh ink on his now angry skin.

“You like it?” You asked.

“I love it. It’s incredible. Thank you,” he said, still in awe of your artwork on his body.

You nodded your head awkwardly as you started to wrap it to keep it clean and uninfected. You met Eddie’s eyes in the mirror when you were finished. You froze, unsure what to do now and afraid that you had ruined everything by speaking up. You really enjoyed Eddie’s company and the thought of becoming something more made your heart race.

Eddie grabbed his things, about to head to the front to pay.

“So…was that a no?” He asked as he slipped his shirt over his head.

You laughed. “Eddie, you didn’t even ask me.”

“Oh, right. Sorry. I’m still nervous. Do you want to go out on a date sometime?”

“I’d love to.”

[papercorgiworld]

Truth be told

A Regulus Black fake dating thrope

You are hunted by the realisation that while your relationship is fake your feelings are very real. Meanwhile James figures out more than just his feelings for you.

Read part 1 here: ‘Dance like it’s all real’

Again lots of kudos to @thatdammchickennugget and her hogmarch challenge. You brought magic to march! Also lots of love to all the tumblr peoples who encouraged me to write a part two. 💛 Your love makes writers write! Happy readings!

Another week had passed since your dance with Regulus, the beautiful but painful moment you realised you were in love with Regulus. You had cursed yourself everyday for playing a dirty game and getting hurt yourself. This is just bad karma for trying to get James jealous. Merlin, I’m such a fool.

“That will be it for today’s class. Remember I’ll be expecting your essays by friday.” You could barely hear professor Mcgonagall through all the noise of students closing their books and chairs moving.

As soon as you exit the classroom Marlene bumps into you. “Hey, are you joining us for a picnic?” You think it over, you still needed to write a conclusion for your paper and you were really desperate to meet up with your boyfriend, fake boyfriend that is. “Come on you’ve gotta join, we barely hang out anymore since you’ve been dating. Don’t be that girl.” Remus argued and you smiled, he could take the weight of the world off of your shoulders with just one look from his kind eyes. “Sure, but not for too long I don’t want to disappoint professor Mcgonagall.”

“Right, right. It’s about homework and not your sexy slytherin.” You gasp at Marlene’s boldness. “That’s not it. I really need to finish my essay.” The three of you laugh and for a moment all is well.

However it doesn’t last long, you can feel the knot in your stomach grow when you see Sirius, James and Lily are already at the picnic. “Look what the wolf dragged in.” Sirius jokes as he munches on some food. “She doesn’t have much time, she has homework.” Marlene winks playfully and you roll your eyes as you all sit down. “Is that Regulus’ new codename?” Lily teases and you just drop your head to the side, pretending to be annoyed but you had to admit you kinda enjoyed the teasing. At least to them your relationship was real.

“Ugh. Please don’t. That’s my baby brother.” Sirius complained. “Baby brother is getting more than you padfoot. Deal with it.” Remus threw a grape at Sirius to get him to stop complaining. “I’m working on that.” Sirius countered, picking up the grape and trying to seductively eat it, making Remus frown.

Unfortunately, fake dating did not include getting some. Not that you had never thought about it. Your mind had wandered off more than once, when he slung an arm around you and smelled so fresh. Merlin, you had it bad.

The afternoon passed and you had started working on your essay in the sun with your friends, but you were too engaged in your work and suddenly you found yourself sitting with just James. “Hey, where's everyone?”

James chuckled at your confusion. “Sirius is showing Remus a new magic trick. Marlene, Lily and Peter are getting extra drinks. They have good connections with the house elves.” You nod and there’s a strange tension in your silence. “Why? You need help?” James offers, leaning closer to scan your paper.

“No, I’m good. I think I got everything in my conclusion. I will reread it tomorrow.” You carefully fold the parchment and James nods, but he seems a bit frustrated with you. You notice how tense his jaw is and stare at him for a moment, when he catches you he chuckles. “You’ll probably go to Regulus for help now…” You bite your lip, you couldn’t deny that there was still some attraction. Definitely now that he sounded so jealous.

“So about baby Black.” You narrow your eyes at James’ attitude. “Don’t.” You demand some respect that’s the least Regulus deserved for being so good to you. “Sirius and I are worried.” James suddenly admits catching you off guard. “I mean here at Hogwarts he might seem like a good guy, but out there he hangs with a bad crowd and.. I mean.. just look at his family. You have no future with him. You do realise that?” His words stung, hard. His jealousy was suddenly a lot less attractive and it took you a moment to bite back.

“Are you worried or jealous, James?” You snapped as you put your quill and parchment in your bag, ready to get up. “Maybe both.” James looks at his hands as you stare him down after his confession. When he looks up his eyes look vulnerable. Your heart starts to race. James’ lips part but he’s forced to keep his words to himself as he sees Regulus heading in your direction.

You turn your head and the corners of Regulus’ lips tug up. He hated how he couldn’t hide it anymore. You had full control over him. He was just lucky that he got to play the role of boyfriend. If not, he would look like a fool. You heard James sigh and turned to look at him, making Regulus’ heart squeeze. You looking away from him was a painful reminder that your heart belongs to the most obnoxious person ever.

“Hi beautiful.” Regulus’ whisper stroked your eyes as he kneeled next to you on the picnic blanket. You were hesitant for a second because James was there, but your lips found your way to Regulus’ like muscle memory. “I got you something.” Regulus reached for a small pack of your favourite HoneyDukes candy and your eyes widened with joy. James let his head fall back as he leaned on his arms, his eyes rolling to the back of his skull with disgust for what was happening in front of him. “You went to hogsmeade?” Regulus nodded. “Forced to, by Evan.” Regulus watches you with adoration as you struggle to open the candy wrapping, but his jaw tenses when he looks at James and notices his hostility.

Clearly you were no longer unnoticed and Regulus hated the whole fake dating thing was going to blow up in face. You had always liked James and you were going to fall into his arms at the first effort James makes. “Can I steal her away?” Regulus manages calmly, before looking away from James and stroking a strand of your hair making you meet his eyes. James chews the inside of his cheek to keep himself from yelling ‘no’.

“Reg.” Sirius pants as he approaches you, followed by Remus mumbling something about almost getting caught committing a crime. “Brother.” Regulus returns nonchalantly as he gets up to meet his brother in height. “Long time no see.” Sirius chuckles, making Regulus tilt his head and frown. “We see each other every day.” Sirius nods and Remus’ eyes widen at the awkwardness. “They were just leaving.” James announces, making the air between everyone even more tense.

Regulus ignores everyone and helps you up, guiding you with a gentle arm around your waist. “Was I interrupting something I shouldn’t have?” Regulus questions pretending to care about your connection with James, while only wishing he misinterpreted the situation and that James still only saw you as one of the boys.

“No, I don’t think so.” You lied, afraid that if you told him the truth he might think there would be no need to further continue fake dating, but by Salazar did you hate yourself for lying to the man you cared about so damn much. Regulus’ lips formed a line and you didn’t really know what to make of it, but he gave you no time to overthink it as his hand reached for the back of your head, pulling you in for a passionate kiss. “He’s a fool for letting me steal you away from him.” Regulus’ husky voice and warm breath sent shivers down your spine. It was one of those moments that made you wonder how much passion was hidden behind his calm demeanour.

***

You were sitting between Regulus’ legs, laying against his chest with his arm around you, both reading your own book with an occasional kiss for Regulus if he noticed you drifting off. It was moments like this that were absurdly romantic and comfortable for two people fake dating. You had been chewing your lip for a while now wondering if you should test the waters. What encouraged you was the gentle way Regulus fingertips caressed your arm, probably subconsciously, as he was deeply engaged with his book. “You know… there’s no one around so there’s really no need to be all cuddly… but I’m kinda comfy, sooo can I stay for just a few more minutes?” Regulus' lips formed half a smile at your question but he barely looked away from his book.

“It would be weird if someone walked in and we weren’t sitting together, gossip would spread quickly. This is the slytherin common room after all.” You nodded at his boringly reasonable argument. “I guess I’m not moving if you're not.” You declared settling in more against his chest, unknowingly making Regulus’ whole body heat up. He caught himself leaning in to kiss the crown of your head, but was interrupted by a loud slam of the door as Barty walked in.

“You told Evan I kissed Tessa.” Regulus raised his chin in thought. “Ah, that was her name. I thought it was Tilly.” Barty shook his head aggressively, clearly annoyed with his friend. You and Regulus both sat up straight to prepare for the drama Barty had just brought in. “I’ve been trying to impress Evan for weeks and you tell him I’ve been kissing other girls. I’ll hurt you for this, Black.” At the harsh tone of Barty Regulus got up to stand in front of you. “Alright. Let’s take this elsewhere, before this gets out of hand.” Barty narrows his eyes at you. “Afraid I’ll hurt your little birdy.” Regulus gives Barty a soft shove in the direction of the door. “First of all leave (y/n) out this and second if you’re trying to impress Evan why in Merlin’s name are you kissing other people. I had no idea you had a thing for Evan… Well a lot of things make sense now.”

You hear the two bicker until the door closes behind them. You’re a little worried, but on the other hand you know better than to get involved with Barty-drama, Regulus was way better at handling these kinds of situations. Sirius had once explained it as a family survival skill to manage conflicts with hotheaded people.

However, on the other end of the door the always so calm Regulus Black was about to lose his patience. “How would you like it if I told everyone all about your business?” Regulus rolled his eyes and shook his head at what he thought was an empty threat. “There’s nothing to tell, I don’t go around kissing people when trying to impress another.” Barty licked his lips before showing a filthy smile, closing in on Regulus’ face with a firm and dark tone. “I know all about your pact with (y/n). Pretending to be dating so she can get James’ attention.” Regulus’ eyes widen and Barty’s pleased with the reaction. “How do you-” Barty laughs. “I overheard you talking once. You are so occupied with her that you’re losing your touch.” Regulus clenches his jaw and his eyes go dark, but Barty just continues. “What would people think of that Regulus? No one would take you seriously if they knew you were caught up in petty games like this. And what would people think of her?”

With one move Regulus had Barty thrown against a wall and his wand against Barty’s throat. “You don’t want to make that mistake Barty. You keep your mouth shut.” Barty eyes are still mad, but tempered down by the force with which Regulus is pushing him against the wall. “You do seem to care a lot about your fake relationship with your fake girlfriend? I hope the feelings are still fake?” Regulus’ eyes get meaner at Barty’s deduction. “You obviously care about her. I care about Evan, let’s not ruin this for one another and let all slide.” Barty reasons, but Regulus isn’t quick to take the deal, considering more sinister options to deal with Barty instead, but distant footsteps force him to pull away.

However, what neither of them had realised is that someone overheard the whole conservation.

***

“We are going to make those snakes cry for their mums!” Sirius yelled as he excitedly fist bumps Peter and Marlene. Regulus just rolled his eyes, but Bellatrix doesn’t stay quiet as she walks by. “Shut it, family disgrace!” Sirius falls silent and James gives him a gentle pat on the back, before checking the tape on his wrist.

“Not looking good, Potter.” Regulus laughed at James’ wrist taped in after he had hurt it during training a few days ago. Regulus normally wasn’t one to bully, but a few mind games before a quidditch game were always hard to resist. Definitely after Regulus had noticed you and James talking more and more. Since you were dating Regulus, you felt more confident and no longer felt the need to avoid James, but Regulus hated it when you were around the gryffindor.

“No need to act so tough, Regulus. By the end of the day you’ll be a double loser and honestly that’s what you get for playing dirty games.” Regulus’ laughs mockingly at James' accusations as he walks closer, but before he can counter with something witty James takes the word again with a venous low whisper. “Lily overheard you and Crazy Crouch talking yesterday. It's over for you, after the game I’m kissing (y/n), I’ll tell her how I feel.” James slammed the quaffle hard into Regulus’ stomach, making slytherin groan a little. Regulus felt like his whole world was shattering around him, the quaffle hadn’t done as much damage as his heart was enduring right now. On top of it all he had to watch Sirius look questioningly at James, but not sparing his own brother so much as a glance of worry.

Regulus clenched his jaw and turned to walk to his own team. His eyes were dead and even though you were seated far away you could notice something had happened. “Do you want me to curse him for you?” Bellatrix’s eyes lit up as she offered her assistance. “Make every limp hurt, please.” Bellatrix laughed maniacally, enjoying her cousin's darker side.

The game was a mess and not just because of the hellish weather but the ridiculous amount of fouls made. Sirius was sent off first for offensive language, then James almost got hit by a curse which led to Bellatrix being sent off and finally Barty almost got himself killed, not even mentioning Regulus’ reckless behaviour to get any points.

When Gryffindor was celebrating their victory, chanting loudly in the stands, you only watched Regulus, who couldn’t bear to look up to his fake girlfriend that he was going to lose. Without a word he passed everyone and everything and headed straight to the barracks to hide himself. There was nothing that he could think of that would console him.

You rushed through the excited Gryffindors and avoided the frustrated Slytherins ready to make amok. You had no idea of what was going on but you knew it was more than a lost game and you knew you needed to be by your boyfriend’s side. You cursed yourself and reminded yourself that Regulus was only your fake boyfriend. Yet, it didn’t stop you hurrying through the crowds.

Once on the field you headed straight for the barracks, until to your surprise a firm hand grabbed your upper arm. Your eyes land on James, sweaty, wet and panting. “I need to talk to you.” You see Regulus disappear with his teammates before locking eyes with James. You let him pull you to the side, under the stands.

“James, what’s this about?” One hand reaches for the back of your skull and the other firmly snakes around your waist as James pulls you in a warm and wholehearted kiss that leaves you gasping for air. “James?” You breathe out his name demanding an explanation. “I know none of it is real. I told Regulus to back off. I want you… for real.” Softer, but still filled with passion James’ lips lock with yours and this time you kiss back with equal intensity. Merlin, did it feel good. You had loved him for so long and part of you was still so attracted to him.

And yet…

you push him away. “James. I think… I think I love Regulus.” You're both still out of breath from the kiss and your eyes can’t look away from James’ but the truth had to be told. “What? But it was all fake, right?” A tear rolls down your cheek as you see James’ hurt and feel your own heart squeeze. “I fell for him. I’m sorry.” There’s a silence as James studies you and you force your eyes shut, hating yourself and the whole situation. A soft thumb brushes your tears away. “It’s my fault for not noticing you sooner and for not acting the moment I felt you slip away.”

Your hands slipped down to his arms, gently creating some distance between you. It hurt you both, but staying close felt wrong. “I’ve got to talk to Regulus.” You whisper looking away from James for the first time. James closes his eyes and you take a step away. He watches you silently turn around, before speaking up. “If he ever lets you go I’ll catch you.” You feel your eyes water again, but force a smile. “No, you won’t. Because you won’t wait for me. You’ll fall in love before you know it, you’ll be happy… Please.” The softest laugh escapes James’ lips as he nods, letting you go, letting you run into Regulus’ arms.

Everything was a blur, your heart raced and your brain was hazy. Your body was in a rush to find Regulus, like a magnet you were drawn to him with a forceful pull.

“Regulus?” You swung the door open to the slytherin changing room. Regulus jumped up from the bench where he had been mourning his love for you in silence. Everyone holds his breath including you, until your raw love for Regulus kicks in. Once you took the first step in his direction every other one was easy as you ran into his arms. Like a fitting puzzle piece Regulus enveloped you into his arms. A kiss so hungry, it matched all those longing moments you had both pushed away for weeks.

“She’s not allowed to be in here. I’m butt naked.” Barty yelled from the showers. “Shut up! No one cares, Barty. She’s here for Reg.” Evan yells back. You and Regulus laugh at the ridiculous exchange and with a smile on his face Regulus meets your eyes. “I don’t understand, why are you here?” You kiss Regulus again to give yourself the courage to tell him. “James kissed me-” Barty laughs. “That would make me want to run away and hide as well.” Regulus rolls his eyes. “Shut up!” You press your lips together. “James kissed me and it made me realise that I can’t pretend to not love you.” Regulus' eyes widen at your words and his smile grows. “You love me?” You nod encouraged by the rush of it all and feeling yourself all giddy. With both hands Regulus cups your cheeks and kisses you intensely.

“She still can’t stay here.” Barty points out with a smile. “Don’t worry, Bart. Regulus is coming with me.” You take his hand. “I still need to shower, though.” You give him a mischievous smile and the teasing glint in your eyes reminds him there are plenty of showers ideal for just the two of you. with a happy smile he whispers to you: “I love you too.”

Picture source: https://pin.it/25mBnrbz5 & https://pin.it/1p3GkSVUq

[dinnersyummy]

2/14 (Megumi x Reader)

Cw: use of y/n, not proof read, angst, kind of ooc

PART 2

Wc: 727

a/n: first fic woohoo!! Here goes nothing, I've finally decided to dive into writing. Not the best but we all start somewhere </3 also for a friend 😛

Before you knew it, it was already February 14th. This might finally be the blooming of a potential relationship. You and Megumi had known each for quite a few years, ever since you joined Jujutsu High you’ve always had an eye on him. Over the past year though you’ve been working and pouring copious amounts of effort into your so called “friendship”. Most times he’d simply dismiss your presence or tell you to leave him alone. Into the late hours of the night you would find Megumi cooped up in what seemed like endless piles of work in the library. You’d always make sure to maybe bring him his favorite snack or a cup of tea thinking maybe it would help! And every time you did you’d be met with the same reactions. Whether it be a scoff or him telling you he wasn't a child needing reminders or a helping hand. It hurt a bit, but hey! Maybe he was warming up or shy! Many of your friends warned you and told you how one-sided it was and how gruesome it was watching your efforts. “y/n, you've really gotta stop trying can't you see? Your efforts aren't getting you anywhere.” Your friend stated. You simply hummed in acknowledgement, no matter what anyone said it wouldn't stop you! “Yeah y/ns she's got a point ya know, it's been ages. Megumis still the same stoic, gloomy, pushover he's always been.” Another friend chimes in. “Maybe I’ll take your pleas into consideration, anyways i’m gonna get going now.” You quickly managed to blurt out. Today was the day, today you were gonna confess to Megumi. You went back to your dorm, you changed into a more suitable outfit and grabbed the letter and chocolate. You had messaged him earlier to meet you in the courtyard, he left you on read. You smoothed out your clothes while waiting for him, a part of you didnt even think he would show up. But to your surprise he did. “What do you want?” Megumi mumbled, maybe if you had listened close enough you would notice the hint of annoyance in his voice. You swallowed hard, your fingers fidgeting with the hem of your shirt. “I…uhm..” Suddenly doubt and worry had consumed you, all these possible what ifs clouded your mind. “You what? I don't have all day.” He spat out harshly. With one final gulp you told yourself, what's the worst that's gonna happen? “I’ve always had an eye on you ever since the day I joined Jujutsu High. My feelings now tresend that of a friend. Maybe just maybe you do feel the same way.” You talked as quickly as you could, it was a mumble jumble of words and feelings. You quickly shove both the letter and the chocolates in front of you hoping he’d accept them. Silence. You could feel your heart pounding out of your chest. “What would ever make you think I would like you?” Megumi growled. You felt your heart break into a million different pieces. “All those attempts at trying to get closer only made me detest you more. I can't stand it when you're near. Everything about you is irritating. It's almost pitiful the way you follow me around like a lost puppy.” There was a prominent scowl on his face. Your eyes were stinging, you tried your best not to cry. “Oh. I see.” it comes out as a whisper getting carried along with the wind. Couldn't he have been kinder about it? “I dont need your love nor pity y/n.” Megumi slapped away the chocolates and letter in front of him. That was your final straw, first one droplet then the next before you knew your tears began to stream down. Just as you started crying so did the sky, it was as if they had shared your pain too.  “Don't try to befriend me again y/n” And with that it was the last thing he said before he walked off. You stood there crying alongside the rain. Perhaps this was how it was meant to be. 

part 2 is here!

[81pastrys]

hi! i hope youre doing well. i wanna request some dad max with a preteen/teen getting her first period maybe? and he's alone with her so he has to take over. xoxo!

Bad Timing

Summary— Max and Isa were supposed to go shopping, but she realized she didn’t actually know what to do for her period

Warnings— first period ; mentions of blood

A/N— I have another request I’m writing rn 🙂‍↕️

Dad Max List

Divider @bernardsbendystraws

Isa usually wore brighter clothing, especially if they went out to run errands and such. Today she put on black leggings and a baggy grey shirt with her hair in a bun. She hadn’t told Max that she started her first period in fear of how he’d react, but with her Mum away, she has to at some point.

“That’s a new color scheme.” Max noticed her clothing choice but any other ideas flew over his head. His preteen was just expressing herself differently, no biggie. Her friends had told her almost everything about periods, except the main key factor of pads or tampons so you don’t bleed over everything.

“Figured I should wear it if I have it.” She shrugged. They left the house and Max began to notice how she would awkwardly shift or how her face would contort into discomfort.

“Are you okay? You seem off today Isa.” He mentioned while they were at a stop light. She briefly looked over and then back out the window with a small shrug.

“I’m fine papa.” She nearly mumbled. They got to a store and she felt a gush of liquid. She ushered Max into the nearest store and immediately booked it to a bathroom. She was freaking out. Max was oblivious. She cleaned up the bloody mess and stuffed toilet paper to hold off anymore that might surprise her.

“Isa are you absolutely positive everything is okay?” Max was concerned now, different clothes, shifting uncomfortably, now she’s walking like her legs will give out. She looked around her before mumbling to him. He didn’t quite catch what she said but she was not about to raise her voice in the middle of the store they were in.

“I started my period.” She said a bit louder for him to hear. She looked guilty like it wasn’t natural. Max blinked a couple times but ultimately sighed. He walked her to an isle she had seen before but never actually browsed. “What are these?” She asked looking to the array of pads, tampons, and period cups.

“So you don’t bleed through your clothes, I think pads are probably best to start off with.” He looked to the array like he knew what he was doing and she just went along with it. She picked out a brand and Max opened it, she freaked out and went wide eyed at him.

“Papa!” She yelled in a whisper. “You didn’t buy that yet!” He shrugged and handed her one of the unopened pads. She stuffed it under her shirt.

“Take a picture of the instructions, I’ll go buy it now.” He said, he gave her a look of demand to take a picture and she did. “It’s not like I’m broke Isa!” He defended with a laugh. She went back to the bathroom and fitted the pad to her liking.

He was waiting outside the bathrooms for her and they left the store. “Where else?” She seemed like herself again but Max had been through girls and their periods. Maybe not their first one, but he knew she wasn’t feeling good under the smile on her face.

“I figured you’d want to go home, maybe just relax for the rest of the day.” He mentioned as they walked to the car. What he didn’t mention were the snacks and heating pad he also bought. “Just a chill day.”

Isa liked the idea, but hated that she ruined her dad’s day. “You wanted to go shopping though.” She said voicing her concern. He didn’t care about shopping, as long as she was comfortable and having a good day he was content.

“We can shop any other day Isa, I don’t want you to be uncomfortable while we’re out.” He assured her. “I don’t mind staying at home for that to happen.” With that being said he brought her home and they watched shows or old races, because talking about racing is Isa’s favorite thing to do with him.

Max is def the type to open something before buying it 😭😭

@il0vereadingstuff @angelluv16 @pandabiiissh @itznotsophia @kallanfiona @chertik-007vvv

[lokisprettygirl]

Step Out Of Line (Bill Skarsgard! Eric Draven x Female Reader) (Alternate Universe) (18+)

Read chapter 6 here // Series Masterlist

Chapter 7

Summary : Eric realises that you are not a dream but a fruition of his Karma.

Warning: 18+, smut, non consensual sex, mention of drug addiction, grooming, mommy kink, age gap relationship, emotional cheating, marital abuse, sexual abuse, consumption of weed

“And why are you suddenly so interested in this?” Dolly asked you so you chuckled. If there was an Oscar for acting in real life, you'd get one right about now.

“I have always been interested in that, you should know that, I'm your daughter” you began speaking, she was still eyeing you suspiciously so you groaned as if to get real with her..

“Fine ..the truth is-” you paused before you continued “Daddy really didn't leave much for me .. I lied. Sure there was some money, but it's going to run out sooner or later, especially now that i don't have a job..and its fucking expensive to survive on your own” you said to her as convincingly as you could “And then I heard you talking to your friend in the hospital and i saw my chance here”

“So this is why you had been clinging to him?” She asked you and you finally saw the opportunity to manipulate her further into this.

“Obviously, do you think I'm interested in him?” You laughed in her face as if it was a joke, the mere idea of you being into him.

“Why wouldn't you be? He's a pretty boy”

Well for once you couldn't refute her claim.

“Yeah but..if I had to choose between him and his money.. I'd take his money, the same way you would” you made dramatic gestures with your hands to prove your point.

“So you're blackmailing me now??” she asked as she crossed her arms.

“Call it whatever you want mother, i just need a significant cut from his trust fund and in turn I'll help you secure it from him” she scoffed as you said that.

“And then?”

“Then you two can fuck off, go live in one of his father's mansions or whatever” you answered and you could see the wheels turning in her head. She was just falling right into the trap you had laid out for her.

“Yeah well he'd need to sign those papers for that to happen”

“He will if you play your cards right. Just remember, you can't treat him horribly and expect him to still give you everything, he's not eighteen anymore so just do your best impression of being nice like you did in those three months before your wedding” you gave her a tight lipped smile.

“He told you?”

“Well he trusts me..he's gullible” you chuckled even though your eyes teared up, the sound of your own voice made you want to smack yourself. You sounded exactly like her.

************

As Eric heard your footsteps approaching he laid back down on the bed with a thud and pretended to be asleep. His cheeks were still damp from the tears.

As you reached near him you caressed his hair before you reached down to kiss his forehead.

“I'm sorry” you whispered softly before you moved to the couch, apologizing to your father as well as you had to lie on his name to protect Eric.

He turned his head as fresh tears spilled from his eyes. You were sorry? For what? For faking being sweet to him because you were interested in his money? For pretending to care for him all this time?

Your cruel words kept replaying over and over again in his head. A part of him still didn't want to believe it even though he had heard it with his own ears. The way you both spoke of him with such disgust and contempt.

Was he really just a tool to be used by you two? He was only valuable because he had money? Did he not deserve any kindness for who he was as a person? As a human being? Your words truly made him believe that, it proved that love wasn't real in this world, if it was he'd have been loved by his mother, by his wife. By you.

But it didn't exist.

Next morning Eric didn't come downstairs so you made his plate and were about to go see him when your mother blocked your way.

“I think i should go feed him today” she said to you, an evil smile lurking on her face “Just doing what you suggested” she winked at you so you smiled as you handed her the plate.

At Least this would ensure that she had no intention of hurting him right now.

As Eric saw Dolly entering the room with his breakfast he grimaced internally. The conversation between you and her still haunting his every breath. He just wanted to disappear from here, run far away so none of you would be able to hurt him anymore but he felt helpless in more ways than one.

“Hey baby boy i know you're upset with me” she began speaking as she fed him a bite of the scrambled eggs and toast before she placed it down on the nightstand and moved closer to him to cup his cheeks.

“Forgive mommy baby, I was just stressed and seeing you like this, I just lost my mind” she whispered softly as she kissed him.

It was all pretense, she planned this with you. You. Everytime he thought of your betrayal, his heart twisted and churned in a painful vice. Maybe this was what he deserved, that's why nobody ever really loved him, maybe his worth lied in what he could offer, that's why nobody wanted to be around him if it didn't benefit them..

In the afternoon Dolly was off to one of her lunches and you finally got the chance to go see Eric. When you entered his room you asked Taylor to rest if he wanted to so he stood up but Eric interrupted.

“Stay” Eric said as he opened his eyes “I need him to stay..” you looked at him confused as he said that. Usually he'd always perk up at the idea of you two spending time together so this request bothered you. You looked at Taylor and gave him a nod so he sat back down on the couch.

Approaching Eric's bed you sat down at the edge to caress his head but he tilted his head to the left to turn away from you.

“I want to sleep.. please go” he said to you, his voice lacking any emotion as if he was speaking to a stranger.

“Umm ok..i..are you okay? Did she hurt you?” you asked him, your voice was sweet as ever, it was all fake though. Just pretense. He had to remember that.

“No, she was fine for once, that must make you happy”

What was he even talking about? He tilted his head and closed his eyes so you decided to leave him alone for now. Was he upset with you because you didn't come see him for breakfast?

You knew you needed to speak to him later. As you left he broke down in tears again so Taylor immediately got up and was by his side.

“Hey man..what is it? Are you in pain?”

“Yess…i ..” he sniffled “Can we get out of here please? I need to get out of this house” he said between his heavy breaths, he was panicking, your words from last night constricting his every breath.

When you saw Taylor taking Eric for a walk you felt even worse, you wanted to join them but Eric asked you to not bother which only confirmed that he was upset with you.

Later that evening you finally entered his room with determination and asked Taylor to take a break.

Eric was standing near the window, his back facing you, just staring into the distance so you approached him.

“Hey what's going on?” You asked him nervously, you just knew something wasn't right with him and you wanted him to open up to you.

“Stop it y/n..just stop. You don't have to pretend anymore” he said to you as he turned to look at you,eyes tearing up with heartbreak and anger, but his words made you even more confused.

“Stop what?”

“This act.. pretending that you care about me”

“What are you talking about? Did my mother say something?” He chuckled as you said that.

“You know what the difference between you and your mother is?” He asked as he took small steps towards you , you had never seen that fire in his eyes before, not even when he was hurt by Dolly.. That pain, that hurt, it was haunting..

“What's the difference?”

“She's so vile that she can't hide it” he snickered “She tries to disguise her true nature but she can't do it for long-” he paused as he looked at you from head to toe “but you? You're so much worse, so vicious, you pretend so good you fooled me into believing that I mattered to you”

Your eyes welled up as he said that. Why was he saying that to you? What did you do?

“You do matter to me Eric..more than you'll ever know “ your voice broke as you spoke.

“No I don't. All you need is my money ..just like she does”

Your eyes widened as he said that. That's when you realised that he might have heard you speaking to her last night.

“No Eric no .. whatever you heard it's not true..I was lying to her ..not to you” you tried to explain but the look on his face made you believe that he didn't believe you one bit.

“No you're lying now y/n.. you made a fool of me just like she did and i fell for it” he said as he reached closer to you, his tears rolling down his cheeks, you brought your hand up to wipe them away but he turned his head.

“You really think I'd do that to you Eric? You have known me for seven years, do you really think I'm capable of it? Capable of being so cruel to you?” You asked him, lips trembling, voice shaking but you somehow kept your point. You won't be able to save him from her if he'd push you away from him.

“Well you're your mother's daughter it seems but somehow even worse if it's even possible” he spat at you. That hurt, it truly hurt in the deepest corner of your heart, but you didn't blame him, if you were in his place you'd have felt the same.

“Why? Why the fuck should I believe you now? After hearing how you speak of me behind my back, do you really think I'd believe anything you'll say now?” he asked, voice dripping with despair and anger.

“You have misunderstood me Eric..please believe me” you pleaded him with your eyes but it didn't faze him, he had heard enough.

“No you shouldn't, and if you don't believe me then I won't try to convince you otherwise, I won't manipulate you like she does, I won't say anything if you don't want to listen” you said as you broke down in tears.

“Then get out ..leave me alone” he turned around as he said that.

“I can't do that either Eric” you mumbled softly before you collapsed on your knees, it was too much, all these emotions , you had never felt this way before. You had never felt so scared of losing someone.

He looked at your broken form and something inside of him begged him to listen to you, maybe he misunderstood? But he clearly heard you telling your mother that she had to be nice to him so he'd sign the paper, that you were clinging to him because you were interested in his money too.

But maybe just maybe it wouldn't hurt to listen just once, even if you'd like to tell him lies or make up stories to pull him back in, he still wanted to hear you, he wanted you to look at him with care and love in your eyes. He wanted to forget the way you had spoken of him last night.

His feet moved closer to you voluntarily as he bent down on his knees to reach your level.

“What are you doing to me y/n? Both of you” you wiped your tears as he questioned you, taking a deep breath so you could speak without breaking down again.

“That day of your accident when we were at the hospital, i heard her talking to that bitch friend of hers- Bethany” you began so he glared at you, still not willing to believe whatever will come out of your mouth next.

“She said that she was afraid you were dead and i thought that she finally felt remorse for how she had been treating you but then she said that she just had to keep an eye on you until you were 25 and that you could go to hell after that” you looked him in the eye as you continued, you really needed him to believe you.

“When you told me about the fund, I just connected the dots, i know my mother Eric, money has always been her most favourite thing in the world, that's why she married him.. my dad.. but when his business failed, she showed him her true colours”

He looked in your eyes, trying to find insincerity and lies hidden in those beautiful irises but all he found was genuine worry you had in them for him.

“I couldn't save him from her..i didn't know how, I was just a child..but I can't watch her take everything from you too” You sniffled between your tears, your breathing getting ragged because of how overwhelmed you felt.

“Last night..i …I heard you .. talking about me like that” he said as he looked down.

“I know..I'm sorry, but it's not what you think ..i swear on my dad's grave it's not what you think” you said to him as earnestly as you could.

“So I had been a jerk for no reason?”

“No no no..you had a reason..you had a very good reason Eric, I'd feel the same if it was me in your place..but I'm not fooling you or playing with you, I'm fooling her.. this way she won't hurt you on purpose and I'll be able to collect evidence against her” he looked at you all perplexed as you spoke of evidence.

“Evidence?”

“I'm recording everything..every conversation with her.. things I can use against her later” his eyes welled up with fresh tears again as you said that.

“All for me?”

“All for you”

Eric didn’t speak right away as you responded.

He just sat there, staring at you like he was trying to decide whether to reach for you… or run away from you.

You didn’t push him either. You let the silence sit between you both, allowing him to process the truth even if he didn't believe them as truth yet.

“She kissed me today,” he said, almost laughing, but it was bitter. “She kissed me like I was a child. Like she had ever cared for me” Your stomach dropped as he said that. You never wanted her to touch him again but you couldn't stop her either, as long as she wasn't hurting him you were fine with the pretense. “But i know she doesn't..I see it now”

He said to you, his gaze fixed on yours as he spoke.

“And i believed you..it felt.. real with you, your friendship, your care for me, your love, all of it felt very real” You moved closer to him as he said that before you held his cheeks hesitantly to wipe his tears.

“Every moment we have spent together in past seven years, all of it has been real for me Eric”

It has been real, it had to be, you had been with him through thick and thin, through bad and worse, you had seen him at his lowest, his most shameful state and still were by his side. You had offered nothing but kindness and acceptance to him since you returned into his life.

“I'm sorry i doubted you” he murmured softly as he placed his head between the crook of your neck so you let out a sigh of relief.

Eric stayed where he was, his head resting against your shoulder as your fingers threaded gently through his hair.

“I didn’t want to believe it,” he whispered, his voice hoarse from crying, “But hearing you talk like that last night, it broke something in me.”

“I know..i never wanted you to hear it..i should have told you about it” you caressed his back softly as you spoke.

“That's why you apologised last night? Because you pretended to be mean and cruel?” You hummed as he questioned you.

You allowed the silence to fill the gaps between your hearts, words weren't needed at the moment, he was willing to believe in you again, he was close to you again and that was enough.

Once your tears stopped coming you helped him stand up, then you placed a jacket over his shoulder since he couldn't really put on a shirt before you called a cab. You filled a bag with a bunch of stuff in your room before you helped him down the stairs.

“Where are we going?” He asked as you made him sit down in the cab and helped him with the seatbelt.

“It's a surprise” you said to him so he chuckled.

On the way he fell asleep on your shoulder so you reached for his head and caressed it gently like you always did.

An hour later the cab stopped with a gentle thud so you paid the driver. When Eric blinked awake, he found himself bathed in the sounds of rustling leaves and cool fresh air. Outside his window was a lake, the water still and peaceful. “My dad used to bring me here for a picnic when things got bad at home or school” you said to him as you helped him out of the cab. It was a starry night thankfully and the moon was full so you could clearly see each other. You took out a bed sheet from your bag and laid it on the grassy bank before you helped him sit down on it.

“It's beautiful,” he murmured so you stared at his beautiful face, moonlight reflecting on his sharp features.

“It truly is” you mumbled softly before you looked away “Even when I got older I'd come here sometimes when really needed to get away and when I needed to breathe..i thought maybe you needed that tonight as well” his eyes softened as you said that.

“You're trying so hard even after i said those horrible things to you”

He whispered somberly, feeling remorse for even comparing an angel like you to the soul sucking demon like Dolly.

“You were hurt and felt betrayed, my reaction wouldn't have been any different if I was in your place” you spoke gently, understanding his plight. He didn't mean to be cruel just for the sake of it. Besides there was a comfort in his anger, it meant that he cared enough about you to feel so hurt and upset.

“But I believed that fake version of you so easily. Like a part of me had been waiting for you to turn around and say psyche” You nodded as he said that.

“It's just how she had made you feel all this time”

A tear rolled down his cheek as he processed your words.

“I hate that I doubted you. You have done so much for me in the past few days. You made me feel sane again, kept me so safe, so protected that I clung to you like a lifeline and the moment I felt a little scared, instead of speaking to you I tried to cut you off instead”

“You didn't cut me off though, we are still here, aren't we? You're allowed to be scared” he nodded as you said that. You were so understanding, how could he ever doubt you? This morning he woke up with a heavy rock on his chest, he feared his heart would never mend again but being here with you now felt cathartic. You were doing it all for him.

“So this is what it feels like” He said as he turned his head towards you and smiled. Cold breeze running through both of your hair only made the scenery more beautiful. It wasn't really a question though.

“What?”

You asked him but he shook his head. Love. That's what he wanted to say but he held himself back..he was still married even if it didn't mean anything to him anymore. Even if the ring on his finger was like a noose around his neck now, he still was a married man and he had to abide by that.

Late at night as you both returned home, you found Dolly in the living room along with Taylor, who seemed genuinely concerned as opposed to your mother.

“Where have you been?” She asked as she got up from the couch and stormed towards you both.

“This idiot wanted to go out so I took him..i wouldn't have to if you had done your job properly” you stared at her intently, unaware of your double crossing games she smiled as she moved towards him and wrapped her arms around his neck so he placed his head down on her shoulder, he felt disgusted but he was going to sell the act. He wanted to fight for himself. And for you.

“That's not way to speak to your father y/n.. apologise” she said to you so you rolled your eyes in response.

“Sorry?”

“It's okay y/n” he said as he turned around to look at you before he gave you a small wink.

“He’ll sleep with me tonight” she said to him as she caressed the back of his neck possessively but you didn't want him to sleep with her. Not again, never again.

“Actually my arm hurts a lot so can I sleep alone upstairs?” He asked her softly as he placed his head back down on her shoulder, you could see her anger rising, the urge to control him and break him to her wim getting stronger.

“Be nice” you mouthed the words, pretending to be on her side so she rolled her eyes.

“Of Course baby.. whatever comforts you” she said to him.

“Thanks..mommy” he whispered in her ear before he pulled away from her and asked Taylor to help him upstairs. She kept her eyes on his frame until he disappeared. You could see the silent storm brewing in her head, she wasn't used to being defied, especially not by him.

“That was good.. you keep that up until his birthday and in a few weeks we would both have so much money, we won't even be able to count it” you said to her as you walked past her to go upstairs.

If there was one thing you knew about your mother, it was that she wasn't dumb. You had to be careful about this, too little or too much and she'd catch up on your act.

Later that night after making sure she was asleep you visited Eric, he was awake as well so you laid down next to him. He seemed a little distraught so you caressed his cheek.

“Are you okay?” he hummed as he leaned into your touch.

“Yeah, I had a dream of my mother after so long” your brows furrowed as he said that. You knew how horrible and toxic his relationship was with his mother.

“What did you dream of?” You asked him softly as you propped yourself on your elbows.

“Just her face” he chuckled “She was beautiful..the kind of beautiful that whenever she looked at me so lovingly i always felt as if everything was right in this world” he murmured “But she only ever looked at me like that when we were high together..rest of the time she'd be mean, she'd either hit me or ignore me”

Your eyes teared up as he spoke, this beautiful boy had suffered all his life, when he escaped his mother he ended up marrying someone that was somehow even worse than her.

“Nobody will ever hurt you again” you said to him, determination strong in your voice.

******

Days passed slowly and turned into weeks, he was slowly recovering from his physical injuries, but he was also healing in every other way as well. The casts from his arms came off after six weeks and he had to go to physical therapy so you accompanied him as often as you could.

In the meantime, you’d been quietly gathering evidence against Dolly. You had recorded every conversation with her, each time she shamelessly admitted that all she really wanted was his money. Bit by bit, you built a solid case, especially once you discovered she had been working with a lawyer to finalize the legal arrangements for the fund transfer on his 25th birthday.

She couldn’t even wait a single day.

But what she didn’t know was that you and Eric had a surprise of your own.

On the evening of his birthday, she threw a lavish party in his honor, inviting all her bitch friends to revel in what she believed was her ultimate victory, that she had won this game. She played the doting wife flawlessly, smiling sweetly as she handed him the papers for him to sign.

“I need a return gift for everything i have done for you, you'd give me that right baby boy?” She asked him so he smiled and nodded.

She asked for a gift so he gave her one.

He gave her the Divorce papers.

😏😏😏😏😏😏😏😏😏😏😏😏😏😏

Taglist @mariaenchanted @malenoradgn @loushaw131460 @wiseyouthinfluencer @muchwita @urmomsgirlfriend1

[redroomreflections]

Paint It Black Chapter Six

Teen Natasha Romanoff x Teen Reader

Masterlist | General Masterlist

Summary: Natasha Romanoff has never known love—or at least, that’s what she tells herself. During her time in the Red Room, she encountered a girl whose memory was forcibly erased from her mind. Now, as an Avenger, she faces a new enemy who turns out to be more than just a threat; they share a tangled history that challenges everything Natasha thought she knew about herself and love.

Chapter Summary: Natasha learns that she and R aren't friends

W/c: 3.9k

Warnings: This is a dark story, so read at your own risk. Mentions/hints of SA, violence, guns, and abuse. We're exploring the Red Room and Natasha's origins, kind of. MENTIONS OF STERILIZATION

Dreykov was, by all means, a busy man. With a facility of over two hundred girls to keep track of, he needed precision in every aspect of his "business." The girls rarely saw him unless he found one interesting. And as you knew, you were his topic of interest, along with Natasha.

On days like today, he'd pull you into his office and have you sit with and observe him. It was all part of his game, and it was working. You were scared shitless, and you tried not to show it. You sat up straight, shoulders squared and hands folded on your lap. The air in his office was tense, but you wouldn't give him the satisfaction of seeing your fear.

You weren't a scared little girl. Not anymore. There were papers stacked in neat piles on his desk, reports on training progress, mission briefings, and names with numbers beside them—statistics, not people. You didn’t have to look closely to know what they meant.

You were looking at him, watching his hands shuffle through the files, and he was aware of it. His gaze was trained on the paper in his hands, and you didn't miss the ghost of a smirk on his face. You were staring again. You knew better.

You tore your eyes away, pointing to the glass case on the wall beside his head. This was also a part of his game. Making you wait there. Making you sit with him and keep your attention on him. It was all part of making you afraid, and you knew that. So instead, you focused on the objects in the glass case, the shiny things inside. A gold ring, a necklace with a ruby pendant, and a gun.

You heard the shuffling of papers, then silence.

"You understand, don’t you?" he mused, flipping a page without looking at you. You hadn't realized he'd even spoken. You directed your gaze to his. His eyes were still trained on the paper, and a chill ran up your spine. He finally looked at you, and there was something dark in his expression.

"I do, sir," you told him, your voice soft. "I understand."

"Do you?" He leaned forward, folding his hands on the desk.

You nodded, swallowing thickly.

"My Widows are some of the best in the world," He mused to himself mostly. He truly didn't care if you responded, you think. You nodded. It was always better to agree."This is how control is maintained. Not through brute force alone, but through order." He gestured vaguely to the reports. "Through strategy."

He stood, the sound of his chair scraping against the floor cutting through the silence. He walked around the desk and came to stand behind you, placing his hands on your shoulders. His breath was warm on your neck, and you shuddered.

"Your training has been going well," His voice was soft and low, and he pressed his lips to your ear. "You're useful to me." He said.

You knew he only said these things to make you feel good, but it worked. The praise washed over you, and you suppressed a smile. You had to fight the urge to lean into him and instead sat still as stone.

"Thank you, sir," you replied, your voice quiet.

He hummed, his fingers brushing the back of your neck. He was so close.

"I think I need two things from you," He whispered, his breath tickling your skin.

"And what are those, sir?"

"I will be sending Natasha Romanoff on her first mission," He continued, and you tensed. "I would like for you to watch her. You're a valuable asset to me. If she fails, it could jeopardize my operation."

"Yes, sir." You wondered why he didn't just send one of the older widows.

"You'll leave tomorrow," he said. "I have a few other matters to attend to." He looked down at you with a heavy gaze. "And I want to speak with you privately."

"Yes, sir," you replied, meeting his stare. His hand was still on your shoulder, his thumb tracing circles into your skin. You felt goosebumps rising where he touched. He was so close. You wanted to move away from him. You wanted to shrink away from his touch.

But you didn't.

You were trained not to.

So you sat there, waiting for him to move, but he didn't. He just watched you, his eyes raking over your form.

You shifted under his gaze. "Is there something wrong, sir?"

He blinked as if pulled from a thought. His grip tightened, fingers pressing down until the weight of his hand became unbearable—until it felt like he was pinning you to the chair.

There was a knock at the door, and the tension snapped in half. Whatever pain you were about to endure by his hands could wait.

Dreykov pulled back, his expression unreadable. "Enter."

"Antonia and Georgina are here, sir," A soldier announced.

He exhaled sharply as he had already forgotten this interruption was coming. He gestured the soldier away. "Send her in."

The woman who entered wasn’t much older than you. Maybe seventeen. Maybe eighteen. Former Widow. You recognized her. Not her name, but her face.

In her arms, she carried a little girl.

Brown hair. Brown eyes. Wet cheeks.

Antonia.

Dreykov’s daughter.

The child clung to the woman’s neck, her tiny hands fisting into the fabric of her shirt. The woman didn’t look at Dreykov or even acknowledge his presence. But the moment her wide eyes landed on you, her expression darkened.

She knew you.

And she didn’t like you.

The woman set the child down on the floor and stepped away. Dreykov didn't take his eyes off you, but he spoke to the girl, his tone stern. "Come here, Antonia."

The child obeyed, shuffling her little feet over to the desk. She stood before it, staring up at her father. Dreykov turned to the child, and the corner of his lips tugged upwards.

"How was your lesson?" he asked her.

Antonia didn't answer. She was staring at her shoes, her face a mess of tears. "I didn't like the teacher." She mumbled.

Dreykov chuckled. "You mustn't cry, my dear," he said, reaching out and placing his hand on the girl's head. She flinched at his touch but didn't pull away."It's a weakness." He finished.

His hand fell from the child's head, and his eyes flickered to you. "You can go," he said, nodding toward the door.

You stood quickly, practically tumbling over your feet in a rush to leave the room. It felt weird seeing Dreykov be almost fatherly to the little girl. You moved quickly, your legs carrying you out of his office before you could even process the tightness in your chest. The door clicked shut behind you, sealing him in with her.

Antonia couldn’t be older than five. Still small enough to be carried in someone’s arms. Still young enough to cry without shame. But even now, she was learning that weakness wasn’t allowed. Learning that flinching at his touch meant nothing if she didn’t pull away.

She was the spitting image of her father. The same sharp features. The same cold eyes. But there was something of Georgina in her, too, softer and fragile.

Not that it mattered.

Not in this place.

You clenched your fists, trying to shake off the unease creeping up your spine. Why was it bothering you? You’d seen Dreykov take an interest in girls before—handpicking, molding, turning them into weapons or something worse. You knew what happened to the women he kept.

Would Antonia be any different?

Would you?

The thought made your stomach churn.

There was no leaving. No, after this life. You had always known that. You had never wanted to be one of them. The women who stayed by his side. The ones who weren’t discarded but kept. The ones who belonged to him in a way that no mission, assignment, or Widow ever could.

Georgina had once been like you. A favorite. Chosen. And now, she was nothing more than an extension of his will, an obedient shell.

You swallowed hard.

Would that be you one day?

Would there come a time when you stopped fighting? When you let him own you completely?

*******

Natasha didn’t particularly have a least favorite lesson until she was introduced to the different aspects of beauty.

She had been inducted into makeup.

It was a class for the older girls—a technique designed to make them appear more mature, polished, and useful. A skill not just for blending in but for becoming exactly what was needed.

She sat stiffly in front of the mirror, her expression carefully blank. The instructor, an older woman with hard lines carved into her face, stood beside her. Her voice was sharp and clinical, rattling off step-by-step instructions like they were assembling a weapon.

“Foundation first.” A compact was placed in front of her. “You need a flawless base.”

Natasha dipped the sponge into the powder, pressing it against her skin. It felt foreign, suffocating. The fine dust clung to her, sinking into the grooves of her face. She tried not to grimace.

“Now, the eyes.” A pencil, cool and sharp, was handed to her. “Liner should be subtle. Just enough to make them striking.”

She dragged it along her waterline, the unfamiliar pressure making her blink rapidly. Her fingers twitched to wipe it away. She wasn't sure she was doing this correctly. Her hands were unsteady and uncoordinated.

"Good. Now mascara. Don’t blink too much."

Natasha obeyed. She always obeyed.

Lipstick came last. A deep shade of red—bold, adult. She hesitated for half a second before pressing it to her lips, dragging it across.

"Perfect." The instructor stepped back to assess her. Natasha met her gaze in the mirror, and something cold settled in her stomach.

She looked different. Older. Sharper. Someone else entirely.

"How does it feel?"

The words sat on the tip of her tongue. Wrong. Too much. Like I can't breathe.

Instead, she answered, "Fine."

The instructor nodded approvingly. "You'll get used to it."

"Madam," Natasha pondered. "Can I be excused?"

"For what reason?"

"I don't feel well."

The instructor's expression softened a fraction. She was not heartless. "Of course. Go. We'll continue this lesson another time."

Natasha slid out of the chair, careful not to smudge the lipstick, and fled. She didn’t know where she was going but needed an out. She was headed for the infirmary, hoping she could feign a headache to receive a little time away, when she noticed you walking into the room. She moved herself against the wall, making herself as small as possible to avoid seeing you. She was still upset about the other day. You'd told her to bomb the match so she wouldn't be sent on a mission. In theory, it sounded great. Missions weren't her favorite thing to do here. But then she'd gotten punished for not putting in her all. The instructors weren't happy, so they gave her extra work and made her clean the training rooms. She didn't have a problem with doing it. It was the fact that she hadn't known she'd be moving up a rank.

Moving up a rank in the Red Room meant something rare—trust.

Not freedom, not really, but a loosening of the reins. It meant she had proven herself competent and reliable. It meant fewer eyes watching her every move and fewer punishments for the smallest missteps. It meant they expected her to succeed now.

And she hadn’t even known.

Her stomach twisted. She pressed tighter against the wall, watching you disappear inside the infirmary.

You hadn’t warned her. Not about that.

You had told her to throw the match—to lose on purpose. And like a fool, she had listened. She thought she was playing it smart and avoiding something worse. Instead, she had humiliated herself. She had been reprimanded, punished, and set back. And yet, somehow, they were still sending her on a mission.

Natasha moved like a shadow, silent and unsure, as she pushed open the doors to the infirmary. There were no guards here at this time, and it seemed you knew, too. She pressed close to the wall, edging toward the cracked door like she had months ago. It wasn't like her to spy, but still, she needed to know more about you. She needed to know what she was dealing with.

******

You didn't know why your first stop was Nora's office. She was much too busy for your dramatics. But you needed the slightest bit of comfort she offered. The slightest bit of touch she would give when you would allow her. Nora was your favorite person in the Red Room. She wasn't stiff and cold like the other widows of her age. Nora was the closest thing you had to safe.

She wasn’t warm, not exactly—no one in the Red Room was—but she wasn’t cruel. She was blunt, whereas others were deceptive and awkward, and others were polished. She had been cycled through this place more times than you could count, yet somehow, she still had pieces of herself left.

That was why you came to her.

She didn’t coddle, didn’t pretend. She didn’t try to pry you open like a puzzle to be solved. She let you exist, let you take what you needed—whether it was silence, a brush of fingers over your wrist, or a conversation where neither of you said exactly what you meant.

"What is it?" she asked.

"Do you have any aspirin?"

Nora sighed. "Are you feeling unwell?"

"Yes," you told her, but it wasn't entirely true. Your head hurt, but it wasn't a physical ailment. It was the pressure, the constant fear, the unease. Of course, you couldn't tell her that. You hopped up on the exam table, watching as she typed away on her computer, and tried to steady your breathing.

She stood, rifling through the cabinet. "You're not supposed to have those," she told you, glancing at the screen. "But I think we can make an exception."

"Thank you." You reached for the pill bottle, but she shook her head.

"I'll get it," she said, handing you a small cup of water. She handed you the cup, all the while studying you closely until you drank the entire thing. "You're worried about something."

"I'm not," You said through clenched teeth.

She raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms.

"I'm not," You insisted. "I'm...tired."

She watched you closely. "It's not like you to ask for pain medication."

"I had a long day," You replied, looking down at your hands.

She nodded slowly, her eyes lingering on your face. "You've been tired a lot lately."

You shifted, avoiding her gaze. "Well, you try being fourteen and learning to be a Widow."

"I've done it three times," She muttered playfully. Nora hummed, letting the conversation settle for a moment before switching gears. "Andrey was asking about you again."

You barely held back a grimace. Of course, he was.

"He’s persistent," she added, her voice laced with something unreadable. Amusement? Annoyance? It was hard to tell with her sometimes.

You exhaled sharply, shaking your head. "He’s disgusting."

Nora’s brows lifted slightly, but she didn’t look surprised. "He’s useful."

You scoffed. "To who?"

"To you," she said simply. "Boys like him are predictable. You should use that."

You clenched your jaw, fingers curling against your palms. "I’d rather not. All boys his age want is one thing, and I'm not interested in giving it to him."

"That's not always true," Nora argued, her tone flat. "They're easy enough to control."

"Easy for you, maybe," you grumbled.

"And easy for you."

You sighed, shifting. "I don't want to do that if I don't have to." You mumbled, knowing that she would understand. "If I get too close, He'll take what he wants anyway."

Nora was quiet for a moment, her sharp eyes scanning your face. Then, she sighed. "That’s the way of things, isn’t it?"

You didn’t answer.

She leaned back slightly, exhaling through her nose. "I won’t tell you what to do. But I will tell you this—you should never let them see what you hate."

You swallowed, pressing your nails into your palms. "I know."

"And if he ever steps out of line—"

"I’ll handle it," you cut in.

Nora gave you a long look, then nodded. "Good."

After a beat, you asked, "Why does he like me so much?"

She could tell you weren't talking about Andrey anymore.

"Because you're special," Nora said, her tone softer than before.

You looked down at your hands before looking at her with shining eyes. "I don't want to be special." You shook your head. "I want the procedure." You said suddenly.

Nora’s expression didn’t change, but something in her eyes flickered—understanding, maybe, or something close to sorrow.

"You don’t mean that," she said, but there was no challenge in her voice. Just quiet certainty.

"I do," you insisted. Your throat felt tight. "I don’t want to be looked at like that. I don’t want to be wanted like that."

Nora exhaled slowly, studying you. "It won’t change everything," she said finally. "Not the way you think it will."

You swallowed hard. "But it would change something. I wouldn't end up like Georgina."

"It's too early," Nora denied you. "You've not graduated yet. You have two more years."

"And after that?" You pressed, trying to hide the desperation in your voice.

Nora frowned, her brow furrowing. "Why is this coming up now? What's happened?"

You didn't answer her.

"Y/N," She pressed.

"He's sending me on a mission," You muttered, looking down at the ground. "With a new girl. Natasha."

Nora's frown deepened. "I'm sorry," she said quietly.

You didn't speak for a moment. Then, you nodded, exhaling slowly. "It's okay," you told her. "I just...want something to change."

Nora didn't say anything for a moment. Her eyes were fixed on you, her expression unreadable.

"Have you ever wanted to be a mother?" you asked.

She blinked, taken aback by the sudden change of topic.

"I can't say I have," She answered truthfully.

You sighed. "Neither have I."

Nora didn't reply, just stared at you.

"Do you think my mother is still looking for me?" You asked. "If she could find me. If she were alive?"

"You've had a long day," Nora said instead of answering.

You let out a shaky breath, nodding.

"Go to your quarters," She instructed. "Try to rest."

"Yes, ma'am," you said, standing from the table. You glanced at the bottle of pills in her hand.

"One more," Nora said, placing it in your palm. "It will help you sleep."

"Thank you," you murmured.

She didn't reply; she just returned to the computer.

You made your way out of the room and back towards the hallway. You stopped short when you heard a shuffling behind you. You turned your head, glancing back towards the doorway.

Natasha was standing there.

Her eyes were wide, her face flushed.

"I knew you were there," You sighed, disappointed. "You really should work on being more subtle."

"What happened back there?" Natasha asked. "What procedure are you talking about?"

You studied her. She was curious. Always too curious.

You shook your head and walked away instead. When you first began talking to Natasha, you thought you could be close. You thought she was someone you could befriend. It was a stupid thought. A childish one.

No one here was your friend.

Not even Nora.

You weren't going to make the mistake of getting close to her again.

She was only a mission.

***

Natasha sat in the darkness of her room, the sound of your footsteps still echoing in her mind.

The procedure.

What was it?

And why did the thought of it terrify her?

It wasn't her business. It was none of her concern. And yet, it gnawed at her. Like an itch, she couldn't scratch like a splinter stuck beneath her skin.

You were a mystery to her. One she had thought she was slowly solving. But now, it felt like she knew even less than before. She exhaled sharply, shifting to sit cross-legged on her bed. Her body ached from the day's training, but she barely noticed. Her mind was elsewhere—on you, the secrets you carried, and what Dreykov wasn’t telling her.

And the mission.

Her first real mission since Ohio.

In just twelve hours, she’d be leaving the Red Room for the first time, sent into the world like a knife drawn from its sheath. Dreykov hadn’t given her many details—only that it was necessary. If you were going, that meant it mattered. You were almost two years older than her, more experienced, more trusted. You had done this before.

Natasha had not.

She could only hope she did well. 

******

A few hours later, Natasha hadn’t anticipated what would happen before the mission. Her briefing had been minimal. Cryptic at best.

She stood at the foot of her bed, head bowed, eyes lowered, waiting. The footsteps of a soldier approached, steady and unhurried. A blindfold was secured over her eyes—tight, rough fabric pressing into her skin. She didn’t flinch. She would have to get used to this.

Hands gripped her arm, guiding her forward. She followed without resistance. She was pushed into the back of a van, her body colliding with another.

Your voice came, low and steady, near her ear.

"Don’t panic. It’s just to keep us from knowing the way out."

She swallowed, forcing her breath to stay even.

She wouldn’t panic.

But she hated this already.

The van jolted forward, the engine rumble masking the sound of breathing around her. Natasha kept still, her body tense, fingers curled into fists in her lap. The tight blindfold pressed into her skin, forcing her to rely on her other senses.

She could feel your shoulder against hers, solid and unmoving.

She exhaled quietly, focusing on the weight of it, grounding herself.

She hadn't anticipated this.

Minimal briefing, little preparation—she had expected that. But the blindfold, the silent transport, the feeling of being nothing more than cargo—was new.

"How long?" she murmured.

A pause. Then, your voice was softer than before. "A while."

She nodded, shifting slightly. The van was crowded—she could hear the steady breathing of at least two others. Maybe more. It smelled of steel and oil, the faint trace of sweat clinging to the air.

She focused on the movement, counting each turn and each stop, trying to map the route in her mind. It didn’t take long to realize how impossible that was. The roads twisted, and the speed changed at random as if you were deliberately being disoriented.

You sighed beside her as if you knew exactly what she was doing. "Don’t bother."

Natasha turned her head slightly. "You don’t want to know where we are?"

"I already know what matters," you muttered. "In a few seconds, you will feel a pinch. Don't fight it."

"What?"

"Now," you whispered.

A hand seized her shoulder, and she felt the sharp bite of a needle sinking into her neck. She froze, fighting the instinct to pull away. The pressure released, and the grip on her shoulder loosened.

"What was that?" she hissed.

"Just a precaution," you murmured, your words slightly slurred. She couldn't ask the next question on the tip of her tongue before she felt the world around her become unsteady. She leaned against your shoulder, unable to hold herself up any longer.

"It will be alright," You assured her.

Natasha nodded, though her movements felt heavy and slow. The last thing she heard before her world went black was the sound of your voice saying

"Rest."

----->

[eclipse-msoul]

heyyoo ☺️💐

Do you Like the Red Hair Pirates or Whitebeard Pirates? Do you prefer romantic or platonic? If platonic could you mabye wtite Something about a young Teenie who dont want to bei in the ship but the all Love Here (platonic). And over some time its Not so Bad in the ship.

Im soo sorry but english is Not my Mother Langauge 😭

Hellooo! 🫶(≧∇≦)/

I prefer the whitebeard pirates more and your English is perfectly fine!

I got you hun 🩷(*´▽`)ﾉ

( It might've gotten a bit dark though, I hope you don't mind, it's still Platnonic though (⁠｡⁠���̀⁠ᴗ⁠-⁠)⁠✧ )

Enjoy my lovely reader 🩷🩷🩷

( ART is from Pinterest, I own the writing)

" Ocean Grip "

◆ Platonic! Dark Whitebeard pirates X Reader ◆

Far in the Grandline , where the sunlight reached deep into the damping ocean. The waves pulled the ship and gave it the gentlest swing. In the very middle of this paradise-like part of the Grand line was the famed Moby Dick.

The view zoomed to the inside of a cabin, a figure could be seen staring out the window. A chain was binding and restraining the figure.

A clicking sound was heard at the littlest movement. Your teeth clenched as you felt the dread forming under your skin. These chains which held you - not to cause pain but rather keep you in place.

You knew you were stuck. There was no way out - not with more than two thousands veteran pirates keeping an eye on you. Even if they didn't -you grimaced- Whitebeard was enough to hold you here.

Your body flinched as you heard the door open and you tried your hardest not to seem afraid. “ Y/n!” Came the jolly voice, muscular arms hugged you tight with a smile on the man's face.

You scowled, “ Fire fist.” The arms that hugged you tightened as the man pulled out. The smile remained on his face but you knew better. No matter how he tried to hide it -His furrowed brows- told another story.

“ Are you still mad?” he asked obliviously.Were you supposed to laugh after what he(They) did? You glared at the man before turning your head to the side and slowly mumbling, “...Let me go.”

You felt the temperature of the room drop and the dread grow. Wasn't Ace supposed to have a Fire Fire fruit, why was it so cold? You didn't dare to look up but he didn't look like he cared.

His hand held your chin and pulled your face to hide direction. He took a deep breath before smiling. “ I'll ask Thatch to get you some food.” And he left with the door banging so loud that you felt an earthquake on the ship.

Oh, how you wished you never met them -never allowed yourself to trust their wicked lies. If only you could change what you did half a month ago.

It was a bright summer day like today when you met your Captors. Your home island was a small one in the Grand line - keeping it safe from unwanted attention and allowing you to live happily.

You walked along with your friends on the island coast, laughing and singing as the waves of the ocean danced. “ And then he-” You giggled at your friend's words. Another one of your friends, Sara, gasped - catching your and all the other friends' attention.

“ Is something wrong Sara?” you asked.

She pointed towards the ocean - words were not needed as the shadow was already upon you all. Sounds of jumps and the waves crashing with the outside objects were heard. “ Finally we're here!” You heard a man shout.

“ Ace, yoi - stop running. You're going to fall-” Before the man even finished his words the rowdy one leg got wanded up and he fell. Loud sounds of laughter and snickers followed , followed by the man whose face kissed the sand - shouting at them to stop. His growls of embarrassment died down the second you made eye contact with the man.

It seemed that all the other rowdy bunch stopped laughing too.You didn't break eye contact with the man - whose stares were starting to get uncomfortable - but rather (mistakenly) smiled.

Your friends, who remained frozen as the man approached and greeted you ,were ignored. “ Hi ! I'm Portgas D Ace.” He grinned.

You smiled politely at the man and returned his greetings. “ I'm Y/n L/n.”

He nodded , “ Y/n , how far is your village?” First name basis already ? How rude.Your brows furrowed , “ Why do you ask?” Before he could say another word a hand came over his lips and he was pushed back.

Another man - who looked seemingly older but Handsome nevertheless - stepped forward. He was definitely way taller than you, even more than ‘Ace’ , whose mouth he covered. “ We're looking for supplies. We'd like it if you could guide us , yoi.”

Your eyes scanned the man for malice before finding him to appear harmless - your brain knew that wasn't true , these men were undoubtedly pirates and one wrong move could cost you everyone’s life. Thus , you had no choice but to agree.

“ Y/n yoi?” you glanced back.

The man’s eyes weren't smiling , he was staring at you like a predator stalking its prey.

“ I'll…take you there.” You hoped he didn't sense the tremor in your voice. The man with golden hair followed along with his comrades behind you and your friends back.

It took merely ten minutes for you to reach your village. It was noisy and lively since it was just the evening. But as soon as the pirates walked through the entrance , the atmosphere changed.

You heard whispers and mummers of your town’s residents. A beat , and the crowd parted with the village chief coming running. He looked out of breath when he came before the pirates.

“ Sir Marco, what a pleasant surprise!” He bowed in front of the man. You'd never seen the chief look so haggard and so happy at the same time. ‘Marco’ greeted the man with a lazy smile before his eyes narrowed towards your village.

“ We're not here for long. Just help us get the supplies and we'll be on our way , yoi.” The chief shook his head , “ of course Sir Marco. It's an honour for our village to have the great whitebeard first commanded here.”

Wait , WHITEBEARD !?

WASN'T THAT One of the ENPERORS ?

( you were lucky to be still alive)

Marco gave a bored hum ,“ Right this way.” the chief replied.And the men were gone.

Your friends and you made eye contact and you all agreed to forget what happened. For your sanity at least and parted ways for the day.

You decided to take a stroll. Hums could be heard as you made your way back to the beach and let the ocean soak away all your tiredness. It was so relaxing , with the waves crashing and sounds of birds chirping filling the air

“ Is it fun?” You heard the familiar voice.

Instead of turning in the direction , you kept your eyes closed and hummed. “ It would be better to experience it yourself and see.” You definitely didn't mean for your words to be thought of as an invitation. But he did.

He joined you and pulled his feet right next to yours. You moved them away. “ I didn't mean for you to join me.” You said with your brows furrowed and eyes now staring at him. “_or sit next to me in the matter.”

The older man ‘Ace’ blinked before he decided that trying to sit close to you wasn't invading your personal space enough. He audaciously brought his hand closer and ruffled your hair causing you to help.

“What are you doing !”

He grinned , “ You need to let loose kiddo. Glaring gives you wrinkles.” you couldn't escape his grasp for a full minute. Then he stopped because you had gotten too quiet.

You stood up and walked towards the ocean. Ace looked plausibly a bit concerned. “ Kid , you okay-”

Oh it was on , you brought your hands down to the ocean and splashed cold salty ocean water on him. “ My name is Y/n not kid !” You took out your tongue and bleeped.

Ace responded with more water on your face. And the water battle began.

Five minutes later, both of you were soaked and cold. Looking at the fire leaving his body ( Yeah, you were the only one cold) Your body shivered and you sneezed, catching his attention.

Suddenly warmth surrounded you, causing you to look up. “ Don't worry it won't harm you.” Ace added , so you did.

Extending your hand towards the bundle of bright fluttering fire, Your heart warmed up. His fire surrounded you, and pulled away any coldness and shiver.

“It's…nice.” You commented provoking a laugh out of him. He moved closer and wrapped his arm around your neck. You looked at him before sighing. “ Ugh fine, you can hug me.” And he did.

.

.

.

A few weeks had passed and you had been introduced to quite a few whitebeard pirates. Each was unique but kind nevertheless. Some awkward, others shy while some hard and others soft.

You had even met the emperor himself - Ace and vista were very convincing when it counted.

They had taken you with them after getting permission from your parents (who were concerned but trusted their saviours enough). So on the supplier boat you finally arrived at the infamous Moby Dick.

Large and imposing as he was, his gaze was soft and warm while he gazed at you. “ So you're the Y/n my children told me about.” He had said when you first met him. You gulped before nodding, “ It's me.”

Took you a few hours before you let loose.

Then you were giggling and laughing with the commanders and the rest. You didn't notice how their gaze was. They had given you the title of their little sister even if that could never be.

“ Looks like our kid is having fun.” Jozu said.

Izou eyes peeled at you - who was currently laughing along with Ace and a few pirates on one of their adventures. He looked back and took a sip of his drink. “ She's not Ours, Jozu. The kid's a civilian.”

Thatch crashed down a plate of meat right in front of Izou, earning a glare from him. “ Well she can be. Look-” He motioned to his fellow brothers. “ Pops got those eyes.”

Namur cursed, covering his eyes, “ I can already see him scheming things.”

“ Marco probably is planning already.” Vista added, earning a laugh from Thatch - whose hand landed on Izou unfortunately ( who was two seconds away from taking out the sword ). “ Remove your dirty hand.” Izou said with he most threatening tone to exist.

Thatch did NOT take the hint.

He did worse, “ Try me Lady boy.”

And then got chased by Izou.

“ Bet he'll get the sword in his back?” Haruto snickered.

“Oh.” Jozu shook his head. “ He'll be lucky if Izou didn't put that in his ass after the shit he pulled.”

“ Well it's either going to end up bad or fucked.” Fossa sighed.

You , who was standing next to the Ace close to the rally couldn't help but think it was nice. Pirates were better than you expected. At least the whitebeard pirates were. You hadn't met any other thus you had started to feel your dislike for pirates evaporate.

It was nice being friends with them.

Ace, noticing your silence nudged you while laughing with the others. He mumbled, “ Everything Alright,Y/n?”

You smiled, “ Yeah.”

But pirates and civilians could never be friends.

( You didn't have the heart to tell them)

.

.

.

Then everything came crashing down on a particular afternoon. It was a normal day like any other when the nightmare started. A few pirates arrived on the island.

You were naive to think they were anything like the ones you knew. You so innocently guided them to your people and let them to their demise.

Your mother had brought your brother and you back into the house,when she noticed them acting out of the ordinary.

“ Stay here-” You could still remember your mother's softened smile. “ Take care of yourself and him for a bit. Alright darling?” she said walking out.

She tried to call your father and tell him something was wrong but it was too late.

Your father, who had a friendly chat with them, was the first victim - the axe ran over his head and cut it away from the body.

Then a friend of yours.

A villager you had talked to.

Someone who helped you.

And finally your beloved mother.

Your brother cried at the worst moment and you could only watch helplessly as he got brutally taken away.You were in one of the underground hiding spots and everything was so clear yet blur.

You lost your consciousness as one of those animals cruelly kicked one of your friend's head and an anguishing scream tore from him. You didn't hear them laugh and burn the place down. ( you were down and fainted)

When your eyes opened, that day would be marked the worst day in your life.

Tears gushed out as you walked and tried to find your family. In the ash and the burning smell that lingered, you tripped and fell.

Looking up, you bit your cheek and tried to dry away your tears.

No

Nono

Nononononononononononononononononono- this couldn't be happening. This was a dream, a nightmare. The pain in your leg thumped telling you that this was by no means an unfortunate dream.

This was real.

Real as the assaulted and torn body of your best friend.

You didn't know what happened next but you ran, ran faster than your life depended on it. So fast and so broken that your parents' gorged eyes stared at you.

There was no time to waste.

You had to find your baby brother!

He must be alive, beaten, perhaps losing a leg or two but still breathing. You begged and wished from every deity that existed in the Grand line.

Let him be okay.

Let your brother be okay.

He was so small.

So small and HELPLESS.

Your feet stopped as you stood in front of your village's entrance. As your eyes tore up and your mind processed the thing that hanged in front of your eyes - the body so bloody and small got eaten to bits by the crows and the insects.

You screamed.

Screamed so loud that the island-No, the Paradise shook from your Ache.

Your body tumbled down , your feet and eyes a mess but you didn't care. You couldn't care.

Everything was gone.

It was over.

A piece of sharpened wood, shined in front of your eye. You stared and your trembling hands brought it closer to your neck. You closed your eyes and smiled as the reality finally dawned upon you.

Yeah

You could meet your family

And you brought the blade to strike your throat.

But it didn't.

Familiar hands pulled it away and throwed it far apart. You looked and drowned in anger. How dare he.

How dare he keep you away from your family?

“Filthy pirate-” you hit with punches and hit him harder than you could. You needed to go to your family, how dare this pirate do this?

His kind was the reason they all left.

You decided biting your tongue was the right move since the man didn't budge. As your tongue came forward to your teeth, your mouth was forced open and a pill was pushed into your mouth.

You fell to the ground lifeless.

. . .

Now here you were in their filthy and bloody hands. They had tied you, to prevent you from meeting your family. You couldn't even cry anymore.

Tears had gone dry from crying for so long.

The door opened again and the chef walked in with a plate you wished you could throw out. Thatch walked in with a gentle sympathetic smile on his face. “ I got you some food dolls.”

Your hand tightened, he had no right to be sympathetic or smiling in the matter.

You spoke again, “ Let me go…”

Thatch signed as he sat next to you and put the plate. “ No can do,kid.” He pushed the plate in front of you and took over the fork. “ Now say ah.”

You didn't.

Thatch grimaced, “ We'll do this the hard or easy way kid.”

“ I don't want to.”

He ignored your words, “ Either way you've got to eat.”

You spit on his face. “ I'd rather be torn apart by wolves than eat what you people, who keep me away from my family, give me.”

“ Haaa, Marco and Ace need to stop teaching the kid some attitude.” He mumbled under his breath hoping you didn't hear him.

He couldn't have you starving.

Not after what a little kid like you had gone through.

( You weren't little, you were sixteen)

He pushed a bite of chicken your way and looked with narrowed eyes, his hand on your chin leaving you no room to escape. “ I can either force feed you or this.” His eyes weren't smiling like his face. “ It won't be pleasant.”

You Bruguingly nodded , taking a small bite of the food. He smiled, this time with eyes and lips. “ That's my girl! Now let me see you finish all of this.”

After you had finished the food, Thatch got up and opened the door. As he walked out, Marco came in. He was wearing glasses.

He scanned you from bottom to top, to the chain handing around your arms and neck. You fidgeted uncomfortably. “ What do you want , Marco? ”

He didn't reply, just took a seat next to you and took out his medical kit and instruments. He then extended his hands towards you and just before he removed them, he glanced at you and spoke. “Don't try to harm yourself Y/n.”

You pretended you didn't hear that. After all, it wasn't harming yourself. You just wanted to be free. Thus as soon as the chains stopped clipping your hands you got up and your eyes landed on the sharp needle.

But, as if the ocean was laughing at you.

Marco's hand wrapped around and pushed you back on the bed. He growled with anger. “ I told you NO, Yoi!”

You snarled back, “ Curse you-” His grip tightened. “ Let me go! Let me go back!” You cried, you just wanted to go back to your family. Why we're they so cruel?

The door knocked, “ Everything alright Marco? I heard screaming.” Izou's calm yet concerned voice made its way to your ears. Marco's grip remained solid as he replied back without opening the door.

“ Everything’s fine, yoi. I've got it handled.”

Izou’s sigh could be heard across the ship. “ Go easy on her. She's in enough pain as it is.” and he left.

Marco kept staring at you and you glared back till your consciousness faded from the stress. Marco let go.

He bonded you back to the chains and went out. “ Goodnight Y/n.”

Four months later, things got better. In their eyes

Not yours.

You were not going soft.

( Even if your hand lingered longer and you unknowingly wished for their comfort and love)

Civilians and pirates never mixed.

But you were always the exception.

(THE END)

So did I rock or what?

If you guys want more, I'm here and waiting 🫢🫰( comments and kudos are my motivation , so please remember to give them if this caught your eye)

Thanks for reading 🩷

[friend-shaped-but]

Yugandhar liveblog part 3

I broke my record today, for the past two parts I was only able to read 6-7 pages in one sitting, but today I read 18 pages in one sitting, and I'm super happy about it!!

It's so idk how to describe it, but the descriptions of olden style kitchen utensils reminded me of my grandmother's kitchen. I realized then that I do know a lot of the words, I had just forgotten them after moving out and us getting a new kitchen setup which didn't contain a lot of traditional utensils.

The names Yashoda uses for Krishna, "Chhakulya", "Sonya" are nicknames I was called as a kid. My cousin had told me that the first section was going to be very cute and I had not counted on it being THIS cute... or nostalgic, more like.

I noticed a similarity with Mrityunjay here... Radha tells Karna to not play by the river much, and Yashoda also tells Krishna to not play by the yamuna that much. Now. They're both little shits who disobeyed that thing but ig that's another similarity.

I was reminded of @sambhavami's fortune teller scene when I read that same scene in this and then I checked when Shri Krishna serial was released, was a solid 6 years before this book got published. That scene has(possibly) inspired so many people, damn. I feel like I need to watch that. But yeah, that monologue went on for 3-ish pages and I had to work REALLY hard to not lose track or get bored.

We're BACK to framing Krishna as a thinker/philosopher in this and I am eating that shit up.

We're deifying Krishna from the time he's a baby and I am NAWT here from it. I'd have loved it more if it was gradual.

SANKUDADA. that's it that's the next bullet point

EKANANGA REP MY BELOVED. 3 MENTIONS OF HER IN A SINGLE PAGE. was the author thinking, "surhut can have eka scenes. as a treat." before I was even born?? This shit is so cute mannnnn, lemme quote the lines "I began to turn, but stopped when I felt someone- a little kid- grab my leg. That was my little sister, about two years old, the sister who called me kutnadada and whom I loved more than life, Ekananga- ekaa. She never used to leave my side. She smiled so sweetly that I couldn't help but pick her up. I kissed her forehead and ruffled her hair and handed her off to dada."

Hmm I don't like the part about names in mathura seeming familiar to him or him having spidey senses for Devaki. idk man it's weird

Ok I have now acquired lots of inspo for Gopaverse and ohot and my other wip about Sutasoma as well. I'm so glad

The friends' overreverance also reads very weird. Dude don't start that shit so soon, wait until he's killed a few monsters... But I have a feeling that isn't going to be included in this. Issok valid but it still feels a bit rushed. Then again our working assumption is that he is telling this while on his deathbed so I can forgive the pacing ig.

The radha scenes either feel awkward or I am too aroace for this shit

ANOTHER similarity btwn Mrityunjay and Yugandhar: The DELICIOUS internal conflict. The barrage of questions they get about themselves their identity and their place in the world.

FINALLY the wrestling scenes are starting thank you sir for giving me excellent worldbuilding I love this. I've tabbed this for both worldbuilding AND character(Bheem, Vishoka, Panchalya, Sutasoma) building.

"I felt like the entirety of Gokul was my home now.

ok stopping for now, will continue later. It's also finals month in April so next post will be late

Part 1 Prev

Obligatory song rec: halla dhoom dhadakka- Pandavaas

[enemiestolovershoe]

Save in your Arms

Nick Folio bsf!reader

Summary: After escaping her abusive boyfriend, Y/N finds comfort and safety in Folio’s arms, realizing she was never truly alone.

Words: 3.3k

Warnings: Abusive bf, physical harm, friends sharing a bathtub (no nudity), crying and breaking down, mention of bruises

Disclaimer: While the characters in this story are inspired by real people, the events and interactions are purely fictional and not reflective of reality.

A/N at the end.

You and Nick Folio had been best friends since high school. From the moment his first girlfriend left him for a football player to the day his band started blowing up, you had always been by his side. You were there for the heartbreaks, the struggles, the late-night drives when he just needed to clear his head. And when Bad Omens took off, you were right there with him—joining them on tour, celebrating their wins, and grounding him when things got overwhelming.

But then, you got a boyfriend.

Henry wasn’t like Nick. He wasn’t easygoing, or understanding. He was the jealous kind—the type to always assume the worst. At first, it was subtle. Little comments here and there, like, “You sure Folio doesn’t have feelings for you?” or “You spend more time with him than you do with me.” But it got worse. If you were at Nick’s house, Henry would accuse you of sleeping with him. If you texted him, Henry demanded to see what you were talking about. No matter how many times you reassured him, it was never enough.

It got so bad that you ended up staying home from this tour.

You knew it was wrong, but you couldn’t just cut Nick out of your life. So you got a second phone—one Henry didn’t know about—just to keep in touch. You had to be careful. Henry checked your main phone all the time, looking for any excuse to pick a fight.

But today, you slipped up.

The band was coming home from tour, and you were too excited to be cautious. You had left your spare phone out, screen lighting up with constant messages from Nick. Henry saw it.

You were in the shower when it happened. You didn’t hear the first few notifications, but by the time Henry stormed into the room, the messages were impossible to ignore.

Nick: Are you coming to pick us up from the airport?

Nick: We’re having a grill party later, you should come.

Nick: You can bring Henry if you want.

But Henry didn’t see that last message. Or maybe he just didn’t care.

The next thing you heard was a loud smash. The unmistakable sound of something breaking against the floor. Then came the banging.

BANG. BANG. BANG.

“Open the fucking door now!” Henry’s voice was sharp, furious.

You froze, heart slamming against your ribs. “What the fuck is wrong, Henry?” you called back, gripping the edge of the sink.

“Open the fucking door, you bitch!”

Your stomach twisted. Your hands trembled as you reached for the handle.

And then, against every instinct screaming at you not to—

You opened the door.

And that was a mistake.

The moment you opened the door, Henry grabbed you.

You barely had time to react before he had you pinned against the wall, his hands gripping your arms so hard you were sure there would be bruises by morning. His breath was hot against your face, his rage palpable.

“I’m asking you one time,” he spat, his face inches from yours. “Are you sleeping with Folio?”

You flinched as flecks of spit hit your cheek, but you forced yourself to keep your expression neutral. You wouldn’t give him the satisfaction of seeing your fear.

“Are you out of your mind?” you said, keeping your voice even. “I’ve told you a hundred times—we’re just friends. I don’t know how you even got that idea, Henry.”

His grip tightened. “Then why the fuck do you have a second phone?” His voice had risen to a full-on scream now, the veins in his neck bulging.

You clenched your jaw. You were done with this. Done with the accusations, the fights, the constant walking on eggshells.

“Because he’s my best friend, Henry,” you snapped. “Since the first year of high school. And I’m not going to fucking cut contact just because your jealous ass can’t get it through your thick skull that we are *just* friends, you fucking idiot!”

Mistake.

The second the word idiot left your mouth, his fist connected with your face.

Pain exploded across your cheekbone, and before you could even catch your breath, you were stumbling to the floor. A sharp pain shot through your ribs as his foot collided with your side, knocking the air from your lungs.

Henry loomed over you, his face twisted in disgust. “We’re done, bitch.” His voice was ice-cold now, almost eerily calm compared to the rage-filled shouts just moments ago. “Pack your shit and get the fuck out of my house. Go fuck your so-called best friend if he’s so much more important than me.”

And just like that, he walked out the door, leaving you gasping on the floor. You barely registered the sound of his car peeling out of the driveway.

You already knew where he was going. The gym. That was always his outlet—lifting weights, hitting punching bags. You wished he had done that before taking his anger out on you.

Swallowing the pain, you pushed yourself off the ground. Your ribs screamed in protest, but you ignored it. You wouldn’t let yourself cry. Not yet.

You packed in silence, shoving as much as you could into two suitcases. Every piece of clothing, every belonging felt heavier than it should. This house was supposed to be home, but it had never really felt like one, had it?

Before leaving, you forced yourself to look in the mirror. Your cheek was already swelling, the deepening bruise a stark contrast against your skin. You reached for your makeup, layering on concealer, foundation, and just enough of your signature black eyeshadow and eyeliner to mask the damage.

It wasn’t perfect. But it would have to do.

With one last look around, you grabbed your suitcases, stuffed them into your car, and started driving.

The airport was a forty-minute drive, but the band wasn’t landing for another two hours. You spent the drive trying to clear your mind, practicing a calm, normal expression in the rearview mirror. You couldn’t let them suspect anything. Not yet.

But you already knew Folio was going to figure it out.

By the time you pulled into the airport parking lot, there were only thirty minutes left until their flight landed. Traffic is a bitch.

You checked your phone—thankfully, you had Folio saved under a different name on your main device, so he had been able to send you the flight details.

You made your way into the pickup area, scanning the arrivals board. Your stomach twisted with nerves—not about seeing the band, but about keeping up the act.

Then you saw them.

The moment Folio stepped through the gate, you didn’t even think. You ran straight to him, throwing your arms around him.

“Oh my God, I missed you so much,” you breathed into his shoulder, holding on longer than you probably should have.

Folio hugged you back just as tight. “I’m never going on tour without you again, Y/N.”

You forced out a small laugh. “Yeah… I’ll never stay home again either.”

You felt him stiffen slightly at that. When you pulled back, his eyes searched yours.

That was the first time he got suspicious.

He knew about the issues with Henry. But he didn’t press. Not yet.

You quickly moved on, hugging the rest of the guys before leading them outside. But as you popped open the trunk of your car, you realized your mistake.

Your suitcases were still there.

Noah furrowed his brows. “Uh… where are you going?”

Shit.

“Oh—just, um…” You scrambled for an excuse. “I was thinking about visiting my sister for a few days.”

That was a lie. Everyone knew you didn’t have the best relationship with her, but Noah didn’t push.

Luckily, Matt had arranged for their luggage to go in a separate van, so you didn’t have to do any weird trunk Tetris to fit everything. The ride to Folio’s house was mostly filled with the guys catching up, laughing about tour stories.

But Folio?

Folio sat in the passenger seat.

And his eyes never left you.

He knew something was wrong.

You could practically feel the questions on the tip of his tongue, but he didn’t say anything. Not yet.

By the time you pulled into his driveway, the guys wasted no time jumping out of the car and heading to the backyard.

Jolly cracked open beers, passing them around. Folio started up the grill. Noah and Nicholas waited near the van for Matt to help unload.

You hesitated for a moment, then made your way over to Folio, standing beside him as he flipped the burgers.

His eyes flicked to you. “You okay?”

You forced a smile. “Yeah, of course.”

But you already knew—

He wasn’t buying it.

Folio had been watching you all night.

He wasn’t dumb—he knew something was off. You had been laughing, joking, and catching up like normal, but there was something forced about it. Your smile didn’t quite reach your eyes. Your laugh was just a little too loud. And every time he glanced over, you looked exhausted, like you were barely holding yourself together.

But he didn’t push.

Not when you sighed quietly to yourself. Not when you hesitated before taking a sip of your drink, lost in thought. Not even when he caught you subtly rubbing at your ribs, wincing like something hurt.

It wasn’t until he found you alone by the grill that you finally gave him something.

“I had a fight with Henry again,” you admitted, poking at the food absentmindedly. “But I don’t wanna talk about it right now. I just wanna celebrate you guys and have a fun evening.”

You put on your best smile, hoping it was enough to shut him up.

For now, it worked.

Folio gave you a long look, then sighed, flipping the burgers. “Alright. But you know I’m not letting this go forever, right?”

You huffed out a laugh. “Yeah, yeah.”

Dinner was easy. The guys filled you in on everything you missed on tour, and as always, they had the dumbest stories to tell.

Apparently, Noah had almost been arrested because he stole a street sign that had his last name on it. Jolly had lost his favorite pair of boots somewhere in Europe and was still bitter about it. Matt somehow got locked in a gas station bathroom for almost an hour because he didn’t realize it was a pull door, not push.

You were a laughing mess by the time they were done, tears pricking at the corners of your eyes—but this time, they weren’t from sadness.

For a moment, just a moment, it felt normal again.

But then your phone rang.

Your stomach twisted the second you saw the name on the screen.

Henry.

You ignored it.

It rang again. And again. Three times. Four times. Five times.

The sixth time, you had enough. You grabbed your phone and stormed inside, the guys falling silent as they watched you go.

“What do you want, Henry?” you snapped the second you picked up.

At first, your voice was steady.

“You know what I want,” he spat. “Get your ass back here. Now.”

You clenched your jaw. “Are you serious? You broke up with me, remember?”

“I swear to fucking God, Y/N, if you don’t come home—”

“You do not get to tell me what to do anymore!” you exploded. Your voice cracked, your hands shaking with rage.

And then, before you even realized it, you were crying.

You were so angry—so overwhelmed—that the tears just fell.

That’s when Folio stepped in.

“What’s going on, Y/N?” His voice was gentle, but firm.

And just your luck, Henry heard him.

“You actually went to *his* house?” Henry laughed bitterly through the phone. “Damn, you really are a slut.”

Folio didn’t even hesitate. He snatched the phone out of your hands and ended the call.

The moment the line went dead, you collapsed to the floor, curling into yourself as sobs wracked through your body.

Folio was next to you in an instant. He pulled you into his arms, one hand rubbing slow circles on your back. “Shh, hey. It’s okay. You’re okay.”

But it wasn’t okay.

Nothing felt okay.

He held you like that for a while, letting you cry into his shoulder. But when he shifted, his hands brushing against your ribs—

You flinched.

Folio froze. “What’s wrong?”

You shook your head. “Nothing.”

He wasn’t buying it. “Y/N, please look at me. I’m getting concerned.”

You hesitated, but eventually, you lifted your head.

And that’s when he saw it.

Even under the layers of makeup, even with the dim lighting—he saw the bruise. The deep purple blooming beneath your tear-streaked foundation.

His jaw clenched. His whole body went rigid.

“What the hell did he do?” His voice was low, dangerous.

You sniffled, wiping at your face. “He… He hit me. When he found my spare phone and saw I was still texting you.”

Folio closed his eyes, exhaling sharply through his nose like he was trying really fucking hard not to lose it.

After a moment, he forced himself to calm down. “Come on,” he murmured. “Let’s get you cleaned up, yeah?”

You nodded weakly, letting him help you to your feet.

Meanwhile, the guys were still outside—but they had definitely seen everything.

Folio’s phone buzzed with notifications, mostly from Noah.

Noah: What happened?

Noah: Is she okay??

Noah: Dude, talk to me.

Folio sighed and shot back a single response.

Folio: Henry.

That was all it took.

The second the message was sent, Folio guided you to his bathroom. The moment you saw yourself in the mirror—saw how completely wrecked you looked—you broke down again.

“Hey, come here,” Folio said softly, gently pulling you away from your reflection.

“I feel so fucking dirty,” you choked out between sobs.

Folio frowned. “Do you… Do you want me to run you a bath?” His voice was hesitant, like he was scared of saying the wrong thing. “Y/N, what can I do?”

You swallowed thickly. “Yeah. Please.”

Without another word, he turned on the tap, filling the bathtub with warm water. He grabbed the bubble bath you always left at his place—the one that dyed the water a soft, pastel pink.

He knew it was your favorite.

“I’ll be right outside,” he said gently. “Just yell if you need me, okay?”

You nodded weakly, whispering a small, “Thank you.”

And then he stepped out, leaving you alone with your thoughts.

Fifteen minutes had passed.

The water in the tub had settled, steam slowly fading into the air. The bubbles still floated on the surface, pink and foamy, but you hadn’t moved.

You were still standing there, fully clothed, arms wrapped around yourself.

You wanted to get in. You needed to get in. But you couldn’t do it alone.

Your body felt too heavy. Your thoughts felt too loud.

So, you called for him.

“…Nicky?”

Your voice was barely above a whisper, but he heard you.

Almost immediately, the door cracked open. He didn’t step in right away, just peeked his head through, keeping his gaze down to give you some privacy.

“What’s up?” His voice was soft, patient.

You swallowed thickly, hugging yourself tighter. “I… I can’t do this alone.”

At that, he finally looked up—really looked at you.

You were still dressed, standing in the middle of his bathroom like a ghost of yourself. Your hands were trembling at your sides. Your eyes were glassy, distant.

Folio’s heart clenched.

“Can you help me?” you asked, voice small, like you were ashamed of needing him.

He stepped inside without hesitation. “Of course.”

He gave you a reassuring smile, one that said, I’ve got you. You don’t have to do this alone.

Carefully, he reached for the hem of your shirt. “I’m gonna take this off, okay?”

You nodded.

Gently, he pulled your shirt over your head, his fingers barely grazing your skin. The moment the fabric was gone, he sucked in a sharp breath.

Bruises.

Dark, angry bruises stretched across your ribcage, blooming in deep purples and sickly yellows.

Folio clenched his jaw, forcing himself to stay calm—for you.

“…We need to get that checked out tomorrow,” he said, voice tight. “Promise me?”

You hesitated, but when you saw the pure concern in his eyes, you nodded.

“Promise.”

He exhaled slowly, then knelt to slide your skirt down your legs, followed by your socks. He was careful—so incredibly careful, like you were made of glass.

He didn’t touch your underwear. He wanted you to feel safe.

Once you were undressed, he guided you over to the tub. The moment you stepped in, your body sank into the warmth, but instead of relaxing, you curled in on yourself, hugging your knees to your chest.

Folio settled beside the tub, watching you for a moment before grabbing a makeup wipe.

“Close your eyes for me?” he asked gently.

You obeyed, and with slow, delicate movements, he began wiping away the layers of concealer, foundation, and eyeliner. You flinched slightly when he reached your bruise, and he immediately pulled back.

“Sorry,” he murmured.

You shook your head. “It’s okay.”

Once your makeup was gone, he grabbed a washcloth, dipping it into the warm water before gently running it over your arms and shoulders. His touch was impossibly soft, like he was afraid of hurting you more than you already were.

He kept talking as he worked, telling you more dumb stories from tour, trying to keep your mind off everything.

“Noah almost got us kicked out of a hotel because he thought it’d be funny to prank call the front desk,” he said, rubbing slow circles on your back with the cloth.

You let out a small, tired laugh. “What did he say?”

Folio grinned. “He told them his bathtub was overflowing with live fish and that he needed a net immediately.”

A breathy chuckle left your lips, the first real smile you’d had all night.

Folio smiled, too. Good. That’s what he wanted.

After a while, he set the washcloth aside and reached for the shampoo. “Tilt your head back a little,” he instructed, cupping his hand to shield your eyes from the suds.

You closed your eyes as he massaged the shampoo into your scalp, his fingers slow and careful. The rhythmic motions, the warmth of the water—it should have been soothing.

But you still felt cold. Empty.

Once he finished rinsing your hair, he set the bottle down and looked at you. “You wanna get out now?”

You hesitated.

“…No.” Your voice was barely above a whisper. You glanced at him, tired and vulnerable. “Can you… Can you get in with me? Just for a little bit?”

Folio blinked, clearly surprised.

You dropped your gaze, feeling embarrassed. “I know it’s weird, I just—I feel so cold, Nicky.” Your voice wavered. “I feel so… empty.”

Folio didn’t hesitate.

“Of course I will, Y/N,” he said softly. “It’s not weird.”

He stood up, pulling his shirt over his head before sliding off his sweatpants, leaving only his boxers. He stepped into the tub behind you, lowering himself into the water.

And then—

He wrapped his arms around you.

His chest was warm against your back, his hold firm but gentle.

For the first time that night, you let yourself

breathe.

Your shoulders relaxed, your body melting into him. His arms tightened slightly, holding you closer, like he was trying to shield you from everything that had happened—everything that still hurt.

“I’ve got you,” he murmured against your temple. “You’re safe.”

You closed your eyes.

For the first time in what felt like forever—

You actually believed it.

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A/N: Thank you so much to everyone who stayed. I’m slowly getting back into writing so I’m starting small for now. I haven’t forgotten about your requests I promise I’ll get to them. Life has been really challenging lately. I was hospitalized due to burnout and now I’m in the middle of moving to a new house. It’s a lot but one day I’ll be back fully. I promise. Thank you for your patience and support it truly means the world to me.

Taglist: @alwaysfightforwhoyouare @courta13 @lacy1986

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

© enemiestolovershoe. All rights reserved.

[hyuneskkami]

❪ ⭑ ❫ starlight: chapter 4───lee know.

04. ohayou gozaimasu! 「おはようございます」

ꕀ cw. mention of poor sleep schedule and anxiety , enha’s niki mentioned as ‘riki’ once (as reader's childhood bsf) ; wc. 1.06k

we were talking to the fans who were waiting for us. I spoke mostly with the kids who came, and then signed some autographs.

flashes blinded me, but it wasn’t as uncomfortable this time because of minho beside me.

in the last two days, we had gotten much closer than i’d ever thought we would. I had opened up to him about my sleep schedule and need (anxiety, more like) to become perfect, and he promised to help me through it. (he also scolded me about my ‘poor work ethic’ which was labelled ‘poor’ because it didn’t allow me to sleep, apparently.)

the cameras were still a little overwhelming, but he held my hand under the huge jackets we were wrapped in. he was drawing little circles on my palm.

han seemed to be doing okay despite the crowd, smiling and chatting with felix.

I noticed minho stiffening while making eye contact with a fan who was around our age. I followed his eyes to hers, and her eyes were on our intertwined hands. she was giggling, but not saying anything or taking any pictures (at least we could be sure that it wouldn’t turn into a scandal).

the checking happens quick, and our managers rush us off to our terminal. slightly jogging and saying ‘hi’s to fans, we made it to our flight before it could leave us at home.

nearing the time we were set to land around, minho and I were the only ones awake. we were scrolling through his gallery, looking at photos of soondoongdori.

the announcement system notified us of the landing in the haneda airport in tokyo. the loud voice of the announcement woke up chan and changbin, who set to work, waking up the other members.

we all got our bags out of the overhead deck, and spilled out of the flight to get our first glimpses of ōta city (a city in tokyo).

it was surprising to see many fans waiting for us in the airport, since it was very early in the morning. however, there were barely any flashing cameras or paparazzi, thankfully.

“minasan, ohayou gozaimasu! omachi itadaki, arigatogozaimasu!” I said, excitedly to some of the fans who could hear me. [translation: everyone, good morning! thank you for waiting for us!]

it was really comfortable to be able to freely speak japanese, a language I was fluent in because of my childhood best friend, riki. we both had the same dream: to become a k-pop idol. but we ended up going to different companies.

as I interacted with the fans (since we were told we had plenty of time till the vans reached the airport to pick us up), I felt minho staring at the back of my head from a distance. I turned around to stare back at him, maybe even win the glaring competition he started, but as soon as I did, his eyes dropped to look at a fan and talking with them.

after a while, when it was time to go, I thanked the fans near me once again, and we set off to get to the vans. we piled into two vans with the same arrangement as before. so, minho, hyunjin, felix, and I were in the same vehicle.

“how fluent are you in japanese?” minho suddenly whispered. hyunjin and felix had already fallen asleep on each other. “and why didn’t you ever mention it before?”

“very fluent, actually. it never came up, but yeah. my best friend was japanese, and he taught me.” I shrugged.

“oh.” he thought for a moment. “can you teach me?”

his question caught me off-guard, but I nodded quickly anyway.

and so, our friendship became more… special.

we took two days to settle into our hotel rooms: the jeongchan, hyunlix, seungbin, minsung rooms. I got a separate room for myself.

we were set to go to disneyland (finally) today. our managers reminded us to film a vlog of the day to upload in order to ‘officiate’ the collaboration.

I unpacked my vlogging camera for the day, and met the boys in the lobby, with the pockets of my jeans filled with my phone, earphones, and lip balm.

“you’re coming empty-handed?” chan asked, walking in behind me. I patted my pockets and he nodded.

while we were waiting for han and minho, the last ones to get ready (they always seem to need some extra ‘beauty sleep’), I was talking to jeongin about our days together at the school of performing arts in seoul.

not soon after, minho walked into the lobby, and our eyes met as we came to the same realisation: we were unintentionally matching.

“no one told me we were coordinating outfits,” han whined and pouted.

“we weren’t, hanji. it’s a coincidence,” I explained to him like I was talking to a baby, still not sure what to make of minho’s and my outfits.

I was dressed in black baggy jeans with grey stars on them, and he wore the same model with cats on them. I had a black sleeveless tank top on, covered by a black and silver sleeveless biker jacket. he was wearing a black button-up with his sleeves rolled up.

dare i say... he actually looked handsome?

he caught me staring, and smirked at me as we piled into our cars for the day.

he was driving the car, and I was in the passenger seat beside him. (only so I could have control over the music. obviously.) han, seungmin and jeongin were squeezed into the back seat. the others were in another car (that was being driven by chan).

we were told that our so-called groups for the disneyland vlog (technically a skzcode episode for the boys) would be hyunjin, han and me (the paboracha, though I refuse to accept my position in it), felix, minho, and chan (the kittyracha, and rightfully so), and lastly changbin, seungmin and jeongin (the in-racha because apparently it's funny that their names end the same way).

the winning team (the one that finishes all of its quests/tasks the fastest) gets their favourite food, while the others... don’t. and I would do anything for food.

as we drove to the tokyo disneyland, minho pointed at a board near a bus stop and looked at me.

it read バス停.

“ba-su-tei,” I read slowly. “bus stop.” I explained.

he nodded and repeated the word. “ba-su-tei.” I smiled and nodded at him.

prev < m.list > next

[boofindoopin]

Oh hello frequenters of my blog. I’m sick, again. Food poisoning. So hard to guess ik, not like I’m always plagued with sickness.

____________________________________________

If you ever get to really know me, you’ll notice one of my biggest pet peeves is people who act all high and mighty about things they shouldn’t be.

When I first started thinking about converting to being helpol, my best friend told me she knew someone who was helpol! I was super excited. Someone’s going to tell me about how the religion works? Yes please.

I met them, and it was… uhm… interesting looking back on it. They were very very secretive and vague with all their answers. I ask them how I should structure altars, and the response I got was basically: “Oh, however you want to. Idk.”

I told them I had heard people talking about how they communicated with their deities, and asked how that works. Do you hear them in your head? Is it through signs you have to interpret? The answer I got was: “Oh, you just kind of know it’s them. It’s too hard to explain.”

I didn’t know much about Hellenic polytheism yet, I hadn’t done a ton of research yet. I thought those were perfectly accurate and acceptable answers!

If someone is expressing desire to convert to your religion, doesn’t matter what religion you are, just answer their fucking questions. It’s not that hard. If you feel you can’t answer them, send them to a person who can! Find them resources if you must! Why act secretive and mighty about it? What will that do for you?

Also, when I was a bit better at this whole thing, my best friend added her on our FaceTime. I was like, “oh hi! How are you? Thanks for giving me some tips awhile back. I have two altars now!” (That was pre-Aphrodite devotee) She was basically like. “oh, okay. Uhm, cool ig. Do you want to hear about my conservative brother?” lol. 💀

____________________________________________

Morals of the story today kids are

•Don’t eat at buffets because you’ll get food poisoning

•Don’t be a dick

[gezelligs-world]

Crawling Back To You

(Bada Lee x Fem!OC)

Summary: After break up, Sara tried to move on by attempting to have another relationship with a guy. But Sara still can’t forget about a certain girl that always haunts her mind like a ghost.

Reminder: This work is purely based on the author’s imagination.

Warning: slight NSFW

“Hey Sara, you’re getting off early?” Sara looked towards her coworker, Min-ju who is still busy typing on her desktop. She replied politely as she put her belongings inside her bag.

“Yes, I’m afraid so…” Sara contemplates whether or not she will tell the truth. Min-ju has been an acquaintance of hers for several months now, she’s sure she heard her reason from others several times already considering how long Min-ju has been working here in this company.

“I have a date today.” Min-ju stopped typing and turned towards Sara with a smile.

“Really? That’s amazing. You finally told yourself to have a date with someone. A guy or a gal?” Sara looked down and back to Min-ju.

“A guy. A really nice one.” Sara smiled as she zipped her handbag and put it over her shoulder. She stood up and was about to turn and walk away but Min-ju’s words stopped her from making any further movements.

“I’m glad you finally got over her. Separating in good terms is one of the worst breakups out there. I understand why it took you so long to try and be with someone else.” If only emotions can speak, it’s already speaking gibberish out of Sara’s body. Sara turned to Min-ju’s direction and smiled politely.

“Thank you, Min-ju. You’re such a great… friend.” Sara bowed lightly and walked away. Not bothering to see what was Min-ju’s expression behind her pause.

Sara walked outside her company building, not forgetting to smile politely at her colleagues. She walked at the parking lot and saw a gray Honda car with a decent guy leaning towards the side. Kang-ho.

She met him when she is drinking herself out at a bar. They talked and it somehow led to exchanging socials, with Sara drunk. Kang-ho is a proof that they indeed live in a small world because she found out that he is a friend of a friend. A magna cum laude, an engineer, handsome, masculine— who wouldn’t want him?

“Ready to go?” Sara smiled at his question and nodded. Kang-ho smiled back and opened the door for her.

“So— where are we going?” Sara asked as she buckled her seatbelt.

“Don’t worry. You’re going to love it.” Kang-ho reassured, checking on her if she had already buckled her seatbelt. Once secured, Kang-ho started the engine.

Sara looked through the window as she admired the busy streets of Seoul. Seoul is a noisy city but she once loved it. Once loved it.

Cities like this can be her comfort but also her hell. It’s a small world after all. Millions of people walk around the busy streets and sidewalks every day. You can either walk past them or perhaps bump into them that will somehow turn to a good friend in the near future— maybe even a lover.

Flashback

“I know! I know! I’m on my way!” Sara exclaimed through the phone as she jogged over the busy streets of Seoul. People don’t even care when she went past through them. This is probably a common scenario to them. Her steps paused when the pedestrian signal is in red mode.

“Come on… come on…” She bit her lips with her heels continuously making a stepping sound on the ground. Once the signal turned green, Sara immediately jogged to cross the pedestrian line.

Sara smiled in satisfaction when she finally got over to the other side as if she won the first place trophy.

“Not so bad—” Sara gasped when she felt a hard body bumped into her.

“Oh my gosh! I’m so sorry!” Sara exclaimed when she saw the stranger’s coffee got splashed all over the stranger’s clothes.

“Nah, it’s fi… ne” The stranger looked up to Sara’s face and her mouth suddenly shut. A foreigner.

“Ma’am?” Sara asked which made the stranger went out of her mind’s floatiness. Thank goodness— she speaks korean.

“Yes yes— sorry. You just speak korean so well despite you being a foreigner.” The stranger complimented Sara which made her chuckled.

“I’ve been here for five years now. Learned the language in a hard way.” Sara half jokingly said.

“Can I give you money for your laundry? I felt bad for your clothes.” Sara looked at the stranger’s white button up shirt that is stained with coffee.

“Oh no. It’s alright—” The stranger shook her hands in disagreement but got cut off by Sara.

“I insist. Please. Just give me your name and number, I’ll send the money.” The stranger thought for a moment and finally agreed.

“The name’s Bada. Bada Lee.”

“Sara?” Sara’s eyes opened when she felt Kang-ho’s hand shaking her shoulder. She sat up and looked through the window.

“Are we here? Sorry I fell asleep.” Sara rubbed her eyes as her surroundings went clear. They are in a fine dining restaurant that overlooks the entire Seoul.

“Do you like it here? You once mentioned you like city lights.” Sara turned to Kang-ho and smiled appreciatively.

“I like it. Thank you for bringing me here.” Sara smiled politely which made Kang-ho nod in satisfaction. He got out of the car before opening Sara’s door. They then went inside with Kang-ho’s hand supporting Sara’s lower back.

They went inside the restaurant and the waiter guides them to their designated seats.

“The interior is amazing.” Sara complimented as she looked around the place.

“Yeah? I’m one of the engineers that participated on the process of building this restaurant.” Kang-ho boasted naturally. Sara looked at him in slight awe.

“Truly? No wonder.” Both of them chuckled. The waiter approached them and handed two menus for each of them.

“Ladies first.” Kang-ho proposed making Sara hum.

“I’ll have a risotto for the appetizer. For the main course, I’ll have the grilled fish. For desserts— blueberry cheesecake. Wine also for the drink.” Kang-ho smiled when Sara finished and also ordered his food. The waiter bowed and went to inform the cooks.

Even after ordering, Sara still looked at the menu to check some possible dishes she would like you to try next time. Perhaps even try making it at home if possible.

Sara noticed that Kang-ho is quiet and not talkative as usual. She looked up and saw him anxiously looking around— did she just saw a hint of annoyance in his eyes?

“Is something wrong?” Sara asked which made Kang-ho turn his head to her.

“Sorry— it’s just… a lot men are staring at you.” Sara looked around and he was right. Majority of the men inside keep on glancing their way. Perhaps it’s because she’s a foreigner. Sara turned her head back to Kang-ho.

“Does it bother you?” Sara asked, her eyes narrowing as she waited for his response. His response will change her perspective of him.

“A-A little. Yeah. A little. I just don’t like them staring at what’s mine, you know?” Sara’s lips formed a thin line but quickly hid it with a hum.

Flashback

“Baby! How do I look?” Sara asked as she fixed her earrings. She then heard footsteps approaching her bedroom. Sara turned and saw Bada leaning towards the door frame with a smile of adoration plastered on her face.

“Beautiful as always, dove.” Bada approached Sara and kissed her cheek with Bada’s hands around her waist. Sara chuckled and turned to the mirror again.

“Don’t you think the skirt is too short?” Bada hummed and looked down at Sara’s skirt.

“Wear whatever you want, pretty. I wanna show the world how gorgeous my lover is.” Bada turned her around and nuzzled her nose against Sara’s.

“Don’t let other people’s opinion stop you from expressing yourself. Doll yourself up and look pretty. Leave the fighting to me.” Bada leaned in and kissed Sara’s soft lips. Sara smiled through the kiss and wrapped her arms around Bada’s neck.

The night had progressed smoothly. Sara and Kang-ho had a great time inside the fine dining restaurant. Lots of laughing, hum of approvals because of how delicious the food was, and maybe a hint of getting to know more about each other.

Sara and Kang-ho went out of the restaurant with Kang-ho talking about his work as an engineer in different companies. Sara just nod in approval trying to understand the unfamiliar words only used in his field.

“It must be exhausting, working at a well-known company.” Sara commented as they went down the stairs since the restaurant is elevated from the ground.

“A little bit, but it’s all I have dreamed of since I was a child. Working at a company known for its quality.” Sara smiled at how Kang-ho seemed so committed in his work

It certainly reminded her of someone.

“You should visit my workplace soon. My colleagues will surely like you.” Kang-ho suggested as they went to the parking lot where his car is parked.

“Soon.” Sara replied.

Flashback

Sara sat on the floor of Bada’s studio as she admired the way her girlfriend moves as she dance. At that moment, her world revolves around Bada. She fully understands why so many people admires Bada for who she was.

She looked down the floor and chuckled at the things around her. A blanket to warm her incase the ac gets too cold, a plushie for comfort, her favorite snacks and drinks, Bada’s phone where her favorite movie is playing, Bada’s Ipad incase her phone ran out of battery, and Bada’s jacket incase the blanket is not much of a use.

Bada glanced at Sara when she heard her girlfriend’s chuckle. She smiled and raised her brows. Bada lowered down the volume of the speaker and adjusted her cap.

“Yes?” Sara looked up and saw Bada walking towards where she’s sitting. She chuckled in response when Bada pulled her up for her to straddle her lap.

“Isn’t this too much? Your dance studio is not even that cold.” Bada tilted her head and chuckled.

“That’s because I adjusted the temperature to your liking. Don’t want this pretty girl to catch a cold, right? I will be a bad girlfriend if I let that happen.” Bada replied while caressing Sara’s waist in up and down motion. Sara tried her hardest to not satisfy Bada’s pride by showing not too much reaction. Damn, this girl got her wrapped around her finger.

“But you like it cooler— and you’re sweating after dance. Goodness sake! Look! You’re still sweating—” Sara’s ramble got cut off by Bada’s soft lips against hers. She immediately melted through the kiss as she wrapped her arms around her girlfriend’s neck with Bada’s hands gripping on her waist.

Bada’s hands gripped on Sara’s waist harder to pull her up, pulling her closer than the previous contact. Sara whined through the kiss, asking for more— no— demanding for more.

The kiss ended, followed by two woman who were breathing heavily— they didn’t regret falling out of breath though.

“My place?” Bada’s question echoed around the four walls of the dance studio but Sara shortly nodded with a lustful emotion present in her eyes.

Bada smiled and placed a short kiss on her girlfriend’s lips. Before scooping her up to go to the parking lot and drive to her apartment.

They didn’t waste time when both of them arrived inside Bada’s apartment. Their makeout session continued behind the four walls surrounding them.

Sara is pinned to the bed with Bada’s soft lips distracting her from the outside world. Bada’s kisses never failed to take her to heaven.

Others might send them a judgmental stare and throw words portraying their action as a sin but Sara never cared. Bada is too good to be a sin. No human goes up to heaven without making many sins. If there’s no such place where she’s allowed to rest peacefully once she died— Sara will gladly stand in hell with her heaven in her arms.

Sara’s thoughts got cut off when she felt Bada sucking on her sweet spot that made her mind go blank. Her hands quickly made its way to her blouse but Bada’s hand stopped hers from doing so.

“A beautiful girl like you should only be lying pretty as her clothes got removed one by one. Be the pillow princess as you should be.” Sara whimpered from just hearing Bada’s words. It definitely made her wet down there.

Her whimpers only got louder as Bada indeed removed her clothes, she let Bada do all the work— it’s not like she will let Sara do any minimal work, she always treated her like a princess after all. After the last remaining clothing, Bada’s kisses went from her neck to her chest and to her stomach. Sara felt Bada’s movements suddenly stop as she met Bada’s eyes.

“Thank you for the meal…” Sara gasped and moaned loudly as Bada’s tongue went to where it belonged to.

Intimate moments with Bada has always been a romantic feeling. Not like the others who use other people’s body for pleasure. Bada is more of a man than any other guy who walked into Sara’s life.

It made her realize that loving someone is not so bad at all. Especially if you have someone who loves you and treats you as if it’s as easy as breathing air.

Sara was busy admiring the city lights but looked down and smiled at the sleeping Bada beside her. Their clothes are scattered around the bedroom including Bada’s cap which was in the doorknob. All of what’s left are their naked bodies with their markings of each other left as a sign of their commitment and their love.

She leaned down and placed a soft kiss on Bada’s lips which causes Bada to stir and to tightened her grip around Sara’s waist.

Sara smiled at the action that it almost made her heart swell with affection.

“I love you, Bada… so much.” Sara mumbled through Bada’s ear and kissed her cheek once more.

Sara sipped her wine as she admired the city lights below her. After Kang-ho dropped her off the apartment building, she immediately grab her leftover wine and sat at the edge of her bed to look at the view of Seoul.

She glanced at the frame placed on her bedside table that was facing the wall. Sara turned it to face her revealing a photo of her and Bada. The only evidence of their love left in her bedroom.

“We look so happy here…” Sara smiled sadly as she grabbed the frame. She wonders where it all went wrong. Is it there busy schedules? Bada’s dreams? Her dreams? Their time? The disappearance of physical affection? Sara never knows.

Both of them knew that their relationship was slowly falling apart. There is no one to blame. They’re in their 20s— still figuring out life and nowhere in place to be considered a grownup.

She somehow wonders if she ever crosses Bada’s mind. Probably yes, but she will never know what emotions Bada were feeling whenever she got reminded of their love.

Their breakup resulted in good terms, with communications, and with clarifications. Sara hoped it wasn’t the case. She hated that it ended in good terms. The four walls surrounding her knew the cries of pain she let out every night just by merely a memory they shared. The touches. The smiles. The laughters. The kisses. The I love yous. She hated them all.

Sara didn’t even notice a tear running down her cheeks as she thought about those moments that continuously lingered her mind.

Without further to do, she grabbed her phone and messages Kang-ho.

‘I believe our relationship will never work out. I apologize if I ever let you think that this will lead into something serious. I’m sorry.’

Sara sighed and put down her phone. She stared at the ceiling, the pressure on her chest was finally free.

Maybe she was too busy being hers to fall for somebody new.

Might do a part two :)

[hopelessmidwesterner]

Small Talk

Pt. II of 'Behind The Scenes'

Drew Starkey x AFAB Reader

swearing, angst, allusions to sex (minors dni, 18+), reader is a PA at an entertainment magazine/media outlet, themes of slight avoidant attachment (totally not self projecting...) from reader, Drew is super cheeky lol, reader uses she/her pronouns and is specified to be from the Midwest, references to classic rock lore/knowledge, etc.

1.9k words

My imposter syndrome is kicking in and i can't tell if this is bad or amazing please help

“So…you really had no idea who I was until my agent and I walked in this morning?”

Drew was more amused than freaked out, a grand contrast to you, as you both ducked into a random lunch spot down the block. It was an odd sight to outsiders looking in since it appeared that you were leading the two of you like a woman on a mission. You looked perplexed and almost irritated, still coming down from the rollercoaster that had been today’s shoot.

“Yeah. No offense.” 

“Non taken, it’s nice to be humbled sometimes.”

I can only fucking imagine. 

Neither of you said anything until you found a table in the back. You deliberately chose it so you’d be as far away from people as possible; it’s not like you wanted others hearing about this whole debacle that felt like the start to a shitty rom com. The restaurant was one of those hipster places that reeked of mediocre yet overpriced food, its rock n roll themed decor feeling out of place considering the pop song you didn’t recognize that played overhead at a much too loud volume. 

“You been here before?” He asked before you even sat down. He was just being polite and making small talk, you knew that, but this whole thing was vexing and humiliating in its own, weird way. 

“No.” You answered dryly with darting eyes. You weren’t sure where to look: the hostess stand? The other customers? The empty bar? The gigantic Steve Vai poster on the wall? The menus? 

You hadn’t been on a real date in quite some time, if you could even call this a date. As crummy as it sounded, you’d been accustomed to hookups or wild, semi-drunk conversations at parties that turned into sloppy make out sessions for much too long. You hadn’t fully sat down over dinner or something similar with a guy since you were a teenager and even then, it had been one of those awkward double dates that you only agreed to because your friend was desperate. It was almost as if Drew could read your mind in that sense. 

“You’re nervous.”

“I’m aware of that, thanks.” He laughed like you’d told a joke.

You hadn’t, for the record. 

“You weren’t this tense last night.” 

“Yeah, well, I was plastered last night and…I thought you were just some random Joe, evidently.” 

“Oh, come on. I’m the same person I was last night…just, ya know, sober.” 

“You were drunk, too? Don’t tell me you drove my car.” You were already getting yourself worked up, cursing your drunk self and the actions you failed to remember. 

“I didn’t. My assistant did. Relax.” If only it were that simple. 

“Let’s just…start over before you pass out or something.” He said with a teasing lilt so you knew he wasn’t really holding this anxious fit against you. You agreed, nodding curtly as a nonverbal queue for him to start. 

“I’m Drew. We met at The Troubadour last night. I’m 31, an actor, and a Scorpio if you care about that sort of thing. Your turn.”

You thought this was sort of ridiculous but you bit the bullet and played along to appease him. It beat the constant panicking you’d been doing. 

“I’m Y/N.” You started, tone clearly chagrined. “I’m 27, I don’t care about zodiac signs much, and I work a lot of odd film-y jobs. Nice to meet you…again.”

“What kind of film-y jobs?” 

“I’ve been a PA for the last couple of years but I do art and occasional camera stuff, too. For now, anyway.” 

“For now? What, are there bigger picture plans in store?”

Why did he even care? That was what irritated you the most: his engagement. You couldn’t read him or his game, forced to play without any idea on the outcome. 

“Yeah…directing, for the most part, but we know that’s probably not gonna happen.” 

“Never say never. A few years ago I was just some college grad living with some buddies in Georgia and now I’m…here doing what I do.” 

“And what exactly is it that you do?” He grinned, almost having forgotten that you had little to no clue. It was nice to be around pure normalcy or at least the closest thing he’d ever get to it again. 

“Well, I really got my breakthrough I guess on Netflix in uh Outer Banks?” He waited for you to at least acknowledge that. You’d only ever heard of the show but that was better than nothing so you nodded.

“Then uh since then I’ve slowly but surely been getting cooler roles in movies and whatnot. I was in the Hellraiser remake, a rom com called The Other Zoey, and recently, I was in Queer with Daniel Craig.” None of that rang a bell in the slightest. He could tell from the deadened expression you wore shamelessly, which made him chuckle again. 

“Sorry.” You said genuinely, knowing how shitty it could feel if your work was overlooked or too niche to be talked about.

Way to go yet again.

“I’m pretty out of touch with new stuff. I stick to older works for the most part. I mean…the last new movie I even went out of my way to see was Hereditary.” 

“Don’t be sorry. It’s old school, I can dig it…What’s your favorite movie?” 

“Mm…School of Rock, probably. Which I know is lame but…so am I.” 

“One girl’s lame is another guy’s cool. Can’t go wrong with Jack Black. Plus, you love rock music, don’t you? Makes sense.” 

“I do…how did you know that?”

He must’ve remembered more than you based on the way his smile turned sneaky like he wanted to hold onto the memories for himself. He gave in to your accusatory staring, though. For once, your stubbornness was coming in handy. 

“Well…one of the bands last night covered an old Bob Dylan song but I thought it was by George Harrison so, naturally, you proceeded to lecture me for the rest of their set. That was what really got me hooked, if I’m being honest.”

You sighed and palmed at your face out of embarrassment. Of course you’d done that, it was the most you thing ever to scold a man about rock n roll facts that didn’t matter at all. 

“If Not For You?”

“Yeah, that’s the one. Great song…both versions. But, as you said last night, ‘George’s fucks way more’.” 

“Yeah, sounds like me. Did I do anything else strange?” He shrugged, which meant yes. 

“Eh. Define strange.” 

“God…why don’t I remember anything and you remember like…the whole night?” 

“Oh, trust me. I barely remember anything after we got back to my place.” He paused to wink, which earned a fake gag out of you that was almost involuntary. It didn’t do much to deter him, though. “But uh probably because I tried to cut you off after your last drink to which you ordered a vodka shot out of spite.” Again, that was undeniably you. You weren’t an irresponsible party animal but something about Drew and men in general really sparked fits of rebellion within you. You weren’t sure why but it typically came back to bite you in the ass. 

“Right. Wow, what a nightmare.”

“Not really. You’re a nice drunk. Way friendlier than usual, I assume.” 

“Yeah. Sounds about right. What kind of drunk are you? Clearly not aggressive or I wouldn’t have even talked to you.” 

“Mm, usually kinda laid back. I talk a whole lot, though. You mentioned that at some point…I think.”

You both shared a laugh that felt much easier on the body. Your anxious walls were falling down after not even ten minutes of blabbering mindlessly with this guy and it was off putting.

What was happening to you? You, the girl who pretended to be bitchy so people would leave you alone. The girl who most people assumed was a lesbian because of your outspoken nature regarding men. The girl who got disregarded more often than not.

Your training (defense mechanisms) was failing you and there was nothing you could do about it. 

“But anyway!” Drew cleared his throat and finally plucked a menu from the metallic stand they sat in at the table’s end. You’d almost forgotten that you were here to actually eat rather than just talk, grabbing one for yourself with much less confidence. 

“We only really bickered and talked about George Harrison slash Bob Dylan last night so uh…I guess I should ask where you’re from? You don’t sound like you’re from the valley.” You eyed him over the top of the menu, contemplating a million things and then some as you scanned the array of food you probably wouldn’t enjoy. 

“We’re really doing the whole small talk get to know you thing right now?” 

“Yes, yes we are.” You sighed like a disgruntled teenager then shut the menu. You figured you’d just go with the safe choice and get a grilled cheese or a Cesar. A little plain, sure, but it was cheap and hard to fuck up. 

“Fine. I’m from the Midwest, Michigan. You?” He beamed like a cheshire cat at your obedience then leaned back in his seat, cerulean eyes zeroed in on you as if you were some magnificent thing rather than an ordinary, somewhat exhausted and hungover girl in her late twenties. 

“‘Atta girl. I’m from the south. North Carolina town called Hickory.” 

✰✰✰✰

An hour ago, you would’ve sworn that the mere idea of eating lunch and conversing with this Drew motherfucker would’ve been your own personal hell. You would’ve preferred knives to the chest or food poisoning over it but now as you laughed at a corny joke he cracked outside of that crummy hipster restaurant, you found that you couldn’t have been any more wrong. He was sassy for a guy, sure, but it was all rooted in humor and a charm that wasn’t overwhelming to you. This was the real Drew Starkey, not the composed and somewhat private version you’d seen on set today. 

“Oh, wait. Before you disappear on me again.” He cracked that signature smirk that was beginning to grow on you (as if you’d ever admit that out loud) and stuck his hands into the pockets of his khakis in search of something. You were preparing to leave one another, maybe for forever, maybe not, but of course he had something up his sleeve still. You had no idea what it could be but then a familiar coupling of shiny silver circles looped around his fingertips appeared and you couldn’t help but snort.

Your earrings. 

“Thanks.” You said, taking them gratefully when he dropped them into your palms. 

“Don’t sweat it…I’ll see you around, Y/N. Hopefully.” 

“Y…yeah.”

With one final mutual nod that left much up in the air, you parted ways. It was something straight out of a rom com, the ones you notoriously hated unless you were feeling some type of way. Flustered and muddled, you walked back towards the office since your day was really far from over but an annoying, high-pitched chime from your phone guided your attention elsewhere for a moment. It was a Venmo notification from an unknown user. Well, unknown is a stretch. 

“Drew S. paid you 25.00”. You weren’t sure how he’d found your phone number let alone the connected Venmo account put you supposed it was a menial thing to harp on for the time being. Curiously,  you clicked into it to read the little message he’d added.

“For the tights…let’s do it again sometime.”

[v6quewrlds]

hi hi gorgeous! it’s ur shy!anon! sorry i went missing, been super busy recently and on top of that my childhood dog died the other day so it’s just been a bit rough. anyways i hope you’re doing well and i have a couple of concepts for you!

also to add to the is joe a boobs or ass guy, he def gives the vibes that he doesn’t discriminate, he loves both. never seen a pair of tits he wasn’t into and never seen as ass that he didn’t like.

however my concept for you today is shy girlie is shy about being pregnant. like she and joe are so ecstatic to be parents but at the same time for someone who get’s shy when sex gets brought up it’s really awkward for her to think that now that she’s pregnant everyone knows she and joe have sex or at least had to have sex once. and she knows it’s nothing to be embarrassed about, he’s literally her husband. they are life partners now. and maybe she’s just starting to get to the point where it’s clear she’s pregnant. and one night they meet up with some friends they haven’t seen in a while and they’re all just now finding out that her and joe are expecting. and men are so weird and i’ve noticed they like to tell other men “well done” when a pregnancy is announced and maybe someone says that to joe and pats him on the back and she just freezes. “well done man, how exciting” and she just starts blushing because a friend just basically told her husband good job getting your wife pregnant.

omg hi bestie! i was thinking about you <3 i'm so sorry about that, i'm always here to talk if you need to!

i think she would be so mortified. like yeah, it's a beautiful moment and she's glad they get to share it with their friends. but now everybody knows! 😭 "well done" would bring her to the edge of tears bc wdym "well done"????