#i wanted to add flowers in the last part but i felt it was more striking to leave it empty

[juniemunie]

"Well, when two people love each other very much-" "STOP RIGHT THERE"

//Okay but for real, Puss lived a good life.

...Every story ends at some point, right?

If you dont know, these poses are based off @/sihanjir from twitter

[pearlymel]

A dance— Capitano

Synopsis : your relationship with him grows, and he seems sweeter than ever.

Wc : 3.2k

Warnings : contains NSFW content, fem!reader, reader is mostly called 'wife', he's super sweet, soft sex, unprotected sex, breeding kink kinda, reader wears a dress and heels.

Notes : part 2 is heree! I highly recommend reading part 1 here. And part 3 is out here!

You've tried creating art, you've tried cooking (with the help of your personal maid, Marina), you've even tried planting.

Yeah, you're a plant mom now. Not only that, you're a cat mom too. Saving the poor kitty from the harsh rain one day, you couldn't leave the poor little one outside. It's mother seeming to abandon it.

All because you have become extremely bored on the days where Capitano wouldn't be here, and he forbade you to even clean your shared bedroom because he thinks it's useless when there are servants present to do the job. (He doesn't want to tire you out.)

Come to think of it, the last time you saw him, he kept avoiding you. Whenever you tried striking a conversation during dinner, he would only hum and nod. Or when you suggested to have another picnic, he flatly refused, and it felt like the hardest rejection to your face.

It's like he had his own mood swings that you had to deal with. One day he would indulge you in the activities you wanted to do, then the next he would refuse.

Like last week.

“I used to do this when i was young.” You tell him with the softest smile to yourself, your fingers working carefully with the flower petals and strings. You were determined to make this flower crown, and you were taking your sweet time just to have him by your side.

Capitano silently listened to your words, his gaze fixed on your gentle movements as you delicately fashioned a flower crown. The air between you was calm, "You have a talent for making flower crowns," he eventually responded, his deep voice breaking the tranquil silence.

"Did you learn it from someone?”

“No… just by myself.” He couldn't help but be impressed by your innate ability to create such an intricate accessory without any formal instruction. "Self-taught." He mused, "You have an unusual aptitude for discovering things on your own.”

You hum back while adding the finishing touches, and he watched your proud display of the finished flower crown.

“this is for kitty!” You smile at the thought of the little one purring with a pretty crown on it's head.

Kitty? Capitano is confused once you start talking about the cat, you seem even more excited when you described how you cuddled with it.

"You just happened to come across this crying feline in the rain, and you brought it home with you?”

“yes! Ah, well… i hope you don't mind.”

“i don't.”

And that was the last of your conversation, and it's been a week since you last saw him.

“my lady,” You recognise the voice of Marina as she knocks on the door, and you grant her the permission of her entry.

You set the sleeping kitten on the fluffed up pillow to reach for the letter she hands you.

An invitation to the grand ball… you read the contents of it, scanning every word as you pull the paper down.

“like a party?” you ask, glancing up at her, "Yes, that is correct. A grand ball is taking place tonight. It's a gathering of the higher-ranking Fatui members and a few... select guests.” she trails off, unsure of what else to add on.

“I can see that this invitation is for Capitano, not to me.”

“lord Capitano doesn't normally attend these grand balls. So my lady, you will have to go instead.” Marina explains this and you feel like you're going to have a headache.

All you wanted to do today was sleep in with the kitten. Not to trouble yourself in some party.

But… if it's for the sake of your husband's reputation, then you are willing to do it.

You hope you don't pass away too quick from your social anxiety.

“Marina, does this really suit me?” You stare at your reflection, and Marina looks at you approvingly, her eyes taking in your stunning appearance. "Sì, my lady, it suits you perfectly," she assures you, "The dress brings out your features beautifully and fits your figure perfectly.”

“and the colour?”

"Oh, yes, the color is exquisite. It complements your skin tone perfectly. You look like a princess attending a royal ball.” and you smile shyly as you take your seat, “You flatter me too much, you know?”

Marina chuckles softly, moving behind you to work on your hair with practiced ease. "It's not flattery if it's the truth. You look truly radiant today." She begins to style your hair, weaving intricate braids and pinning them in place with delicate silver pins.

Though you can't even lie to yourself, you looked absolutely gorgeous, even when you felt a little down since you would be going alone, and you barely knew anyone.

Marina pauses in her work for a moment, her expression becoming sympathetic as she sensed your nervousness. “It's natural to feel that way. But I believe you will be fine. You are strong and independent." She resumes styling your hair, her fingers moving nimbly to create elegant curls.

You smile at her, looking at her from the mirror, “thank you.”

"It is my honor to serve you.” As she finishes your hair, she steps back to admire her work, a satisfied expression on her face. "You are ready, my lady.”

You are ready.

You are not ready.

Because why was everyone's eyes piercing bullets through you as you entered the main hall?

The whispers and murmurs start almost immediately, the guests clearly intrigued by your presence. However, you manage to keep your composure, straightening your back and walking forward with confidence, just like how Marina taught you.

Stay calm they won't eat you, you tell yourself, trying to maintain your composure under the weight of their gazes.

You were here to make friends, hopefully.

You scan the room, hoping that someone would approach you to engage in conversation. Yet nobody, not a single soul, seems to have the courage to do so. The guests continue their conversations and dances, seemingly ignoring your presence.

And so, you find yourself standing alone, sipping on a glass of champagne, feeling lost and slightly out of place.

Well this is boring. You could've stayed in with Kitty and Marina, but at least you get free food. They always taste better, right?

Everyone went silent all of a sudden, but you ignored it at first and continue taking sips of your drink.

But the silence becomes uncomfortable, just what happened to the party?

You turn around, your eyes widening immediately in surprise as you see Capitano walking towards you. Your heart seems to skip a beat as you watch him approach, his presence commanding attention and authority in the room. Capitano stops in front of you, you can't make up what his face must be like right now, but you think he has a stoic expression on his face as he takes in your appearance. His eyes roaming up and down your figure, seemingly appreciating the elegance of your dress.

“husband?” You blurt out, setting your glass aside to greet him.

"Wife," he says simply, acknowledging the fact that you have finally addressed him by that term.

The tension breaks when soft, elegant music begins to play, signaling the start of partner dances in the middle of the ballroom.

Capitano seems to realize this as he glances around at the couples already making their way to the dance floor. He then turns back to you, his expression unreadable as he silently contemplates the situation.

He can see the slight tension in your shoulders, the way your hand clutched at your dress.

"I suppose we should dance, wife.”

“you want to dance?”

"Yes," he responds. "It appears it's customary for couples at these events to dance together." He extends his hand in your direction, gesturing for you to take it. You take his hand, wrapping it gently around his gloved one. His fingers close around your hand, his grip gentle yet firm as he leads you towards the dance floor.

You notice the whispers and murmurs among the guests growing louder. But you chose to ignore them.

Capitano guides you to the center of the dance floor and positions himself opposite you, his hand settling onto your waist, and your hands on his shoulders.

"Do you know how to dance?" You whisper to him, making sure no one listens, and your eyes are on him.

"I may not engage in these social events often, but even I understand the basics of dance." His hand on your waist pulls you closer to him, you follow his lead.

Interesting.

He leads the dance with of assurance and grace, his movements fluid and confident. As you follow his lead and swirl together across the dance floor, your eyes meet his, and you find yourself unable to look away. The closeness between you makes it feel as if the rest of the world has faded away, leaving only the two of you dancing together.

You notice how he seems to turn his head slightly to look at others, mimicking their movements swiftly, it makes you smile to yourself.

His hand on your waist feels warm, almost burning even through the fabric of your dress. It's a strange sensation you've never felt when touching him, despite having already kissed (once) before.

”my dress,” you whisper amidst the graceful dance, “what do you think of it?”

You figured you always needed to give him a little push when initiating things.

His attention drift down to take in the sight of your dress once again. His gaze roams over the fabric, lingering on the way it clings to your figure, and how the color contrasts against your skin.

"It's... " he pauses, you're just wearing a dres, but he finds it difficult to describe what he feels, "Very pleasing to the eye.” he manages to continue.

"You look rather well tonight, as well.”

“Thank you, wife.”

The music suddenly shifts to a slower tempo, and Capitano instinctively adjusts his hold on you, pulling you slightly closer as he continues to dance with you.

You totally ignore how your face is almost pressed up against his chest.

As interesting as the party was, the worst part of was walking back to the estate. Why? Because the carriage decided to break down, or maybe the horses were sleepy, you don't know.

You're glad your husband is with you, or else you might've been sacrificed to the dogs at night, now even ants will fear this big guy.

But what's worse? Your damn heels are killing you. The sides of your pinky toes are already aching that you are sure it will cause nasty blisters by tomorrow.

"Perhaps next time you should wear more comfortable shoes." He stated bluntly, his deep voice betraying no pity for your situation. “but they look pretty, plus i feel elegant in them.” you stop at your tracks, looking up at him with a defeated expression.

"I'm well aware." he says dryly, "But at what cost? You're practically torturing yourself with those heels.”

He's half right, your point still stands. Beauty is pain. And now you'll have to sacrifice your beauty.

Bye bye heels. You slide them off your feet, bow having your poor feet to walk on these rocky grounds. You do feel a little better after, though.

“stay still.” He utters, and you're confused, until he takes your heels in one hand before you feel a shift of your weight off your feet, finding yourself being carried into his arms.

you wrapped your arms around his neck silently, your eyes glancing up at him as he continues walking like he you weigh nothing.

The air around you is peaceful. You feel safe with him, he's not like the scary man you hear from the others. Maybe to others he was, but to you? He was soft for you.

Your head leans on his chest where his heart rested, the beats of his heart makes you sleepy, but you refuse to sleep just like this, you want to spend every single second savouring this feeling.

Capitano carried you all the way to the estate, and through the dark corridors, making his way to your shared chambers.

The soft moonlight filtering through the windows was the only source of illumination, the atmosphere around you quiet.

He gently deposited you back on your feet, you're back home safely.

“thank you.” You whisper, your hands reaching to take the pins out of your hair to let it breath from the scruffy yet beautiful hairstyle, and Capitano starts taking off the heavy layers off him as well, with the helmet out.

You don't notice how one of your dress straps seem to fall off your shoulders, but he notices, and oh did that make something in him stir.

His steps closer from behind you, his hand reaching to put the strap back in place, but instead, he glances at the other strap.

It looked rather lonely being on your shoulder, his fingers delicately sliding the strap down which makes you ultimately still in your place.

Your entire body trembled slightly as Capitano's hands caressed your skin, tracing gentle paths across your shoulders and back down to the zipper on your side. “May i.. help you out of your dress?” His low, gruff voice, asking for permission to help you out of your dress, made your heart beat faster.

You could only nod in response, your voice silenced by a mixture of anticipation and desire. Capitano's touch was meticulous, his thumb and index delicately moving down the zipper with deliberate slowness, prolonging the tension.

Capitano lets out another low hum as he watches the dress slide down to your ankles, now leaving you only in your undergarments. His hands traced the contour of your body, his touch delicate yet possessive. His own breathing became ragged, the sight of you partially undressed igniting a fire in his eyes.

“Will you allow me to touch you?”

The question makes you turn your head, of course he can.

When you don't stop him from wrapping his arms around you, his chest pressed against your back, he takes it as a green light to continue.

His hand first brushed your hair out of the way, to allow his lips to come in contact with the nape of your neck, “you're so beautiful..." he whispered, his hot breath sending jolts of electricity through your core.

“I don't…” he hesitates, wanting to move his hands away, “i don't want to do anything you don't like.”

And your expression softens at his concern, you turn around to take his face into your hands, your thumbs caressing the apples of his cheeks and he nuzzles into your touch, wrapping a hand around your wrist before pressing a kiss to your palm. You further reassure him by littering his face with your lips, giving every empty space of his skin with at least one kiss.

“Allow me to experience this with you, and i shall take care of you till i take my very last breath.” he hoists you up easily into his arms, rough hand under your thighs as you wrap your legs around his waist, he laid you down on the soft sheets, his body covering yours as he looked down at you.

“You occupy my every thought,” he starts, “that it feels sinful to even look at your way.” He leaned down, his lips capturing yours in a searing kiss as his hand continued its exploration, ripping your bra off to cup your breast, feeling your nipple harden under his touch. He rolled it between his fingers, pinching it gently as he deepened the kiss when you gasp, his tongue delving into your mouth, savouring your taste and angelic sounds.

He leaned down afterwards, his mouth latching onto your nipple, sucking it into his mouth and your hands find his ling strands instantly, tugging on them while being careful not to hurt him.

His fingers traced down to your hip, giving them a firm squeeze before ripping your panties off next, his thumb rubbing circles on your clit, feeling you writhe and tense up under him.

It felt like an unknown territory you've yet to explore.

Upon sensing your discomfort, he presses his lips to your eyelids, then to your neck, taking his time until you relaxed, until you started feeling good based off how you were bucking your hips now.

Oh how he wanted to take his time with you, but he was aching so bad that if he continues touching you he might just burst embarrassingly fast in his pants.

“Let me in, my wife.” He gently starts massaging your thighs as he parts them, making you feel more exposed than ever, but he distracts you by softly kissing you again and again while he's unbuckling his pants and pushing them down, revealing his throbbing thick, hard cock.

“Capitano—!” you try to squirm away when you feel his tip push into your tight hole, your lips parting from the way he stretched you open, but at the same time you felt relaxed with his soft whispers of ‘take your time’ and ‘you’re doing well, my wife.’

Your cunt soon takes in every inch, swallowing him whole until you were a panting mess, and you didn't even start.

Capitano then began to move, his thrusts slow and deep at first, letting you get used to his size, to how you feel, to how he feels as he makes love to you for the first time together.

You feel your heart up to your throat and ears, it felt incredible, something you've never felt before, your soft moans echoing in the air along with a few groans coming from him.

He shivered when he felt your fingertips trace the few scars littering his shoulders and back, his dick twitching almost instantly before his thrusts grew faster, more urgent.

His hand reached down, returning back to draw circles around the bundle of nerves, and he could feel your body tense, your walls clenching around his cock as he continued to rub your clit.

“come for your husband,” he breaths heavily next to your ear, and you come undone, your moans filling the room as he felt you milk his cock. He could feel his own release following after, his balls tightening before he slammed into you one last time, spilling thick ropes into your womb, until you were filled to the brim.

Your legs were shaking slightly around him, yet his warm embrace afterwards made you melt, eyelids heavy with him still being buried inside you.

—

You groggily woke up, still half in a dream-like state, the room bathed in shadows due to the closed curtains blocking out the morning sun.

As your senses slowly returned to reality, you heard a soft meow next to you, and sure enough, your little kitten had made itself comfortable in the middle of the bed. To your surprise, Capitano, who was still asleep beside you, didn't seem bothered in the slightest by the creature's presence.

“pst,” you whisper to your husband who only hummed in acknowledgment of your attention. “Can we go have a picnic this early morning? With our baby kitten of course.”

Tags: @sayastyx, @nastylilcvnt, @bigboygoose,

[luveline]

JADE I LOVE SINGLE MOM READER AND STEVE! 😭 If requests are open, could we see steve taking the two of them on a date? And lil man wants to hold steves hand but he’s a little shy to ask?

If requests are closed this is just a compliment for you 😘

thank u for requesting <3 mom!reader, 1k

This is far more nerve wracking than previous dates, Steve will admit. He’s never had to buy a girl two bouquets, either. It’s expensive. Probably worth it. 

Steve leans against the doorframe, nervous and attempting to look the opposite. His knock was met with a called, “Coming, Steve!” and little else. 

He’s wondering if he’s the victim of a mean prank when you finally open the door. 

“Hi!” you greet, letting your mini me stumble out of the door before you. “Noah, say hi, baby.”

Noah looks up at Steve, smiles, and carries on down the steps. 

“Hey, bud,” he says with a knowing laugh. “Hi, you,” he adds, pressing a quick kiss to your cheek. 

“Are those for us? Noah, come back! Come back, Steve has a present for you.” 

The flowers he’d bought for Noah are small and maybe ridiculous, he doesn’t know. Noah’s a little boy, and he’s sure some parents might give Steve a funny look for it, but it hadn’t felt weird in the moment. You don't find it weird, clearly —you’re beckoning Noah back to your legs with a smile that practically sparkles, grabbing him up, and showing him the flowers. There’s something startled about you as you point to the smaller bouquet and say, “Oh, babe, look what Steve got for you. Aren’t they pretty? Where are we gonna put them?” 

“You guys look nice, huh? That’s a gift for me, so, I figure, flowers,” he says, not awkward but definitely not smooth. 

“Thank you, Steve.” 

You take Noah’s bouquet and press it into his hands. “Say thank you,” you whisper nicely. 

“Thank you,” Noah says. 

Steve meets his eyes with a smile gentle as yours. “You’re welcome.” 

“Would you wanna hold him?” you ask. “I’ll take the flowers inside. He’ll run down into the street otherwise, and if I take him back in he’ll want me to take off his shoes.” 

Steve doesn’t know what he wants. He really likes your son and he doesn’t have any qualms in helping, but he’s terrified of dropping him, or holding him wrong and hurting him, or making him cry being too close. He doesn’t want you to know that he’s scared of anything, so he shuffles your flowers into one arm and opens the other for Noah, who goes willingly. Steve’s surprised at how easily you move him, then again when Noah surrenders his flowers in the name of hugging Steve’s neck. 

You laugh. Your smile makes him smile, and with the colours of the flowers glowing under your neck, you’re something from a movie. “Aw, babe, are you giving Steve a hug? You’re so nice! You’re lovely.” 

“We’re best friends,” Steve says. 

“We’re best friends,” you say. Best friends seems to be mom code for dating. “You’re just buddies. Don’t get it messed up, Harrington, I’m his favourite.” 

You head back inside. Steve holds Noah close, realising with some awe that even though Noah’s a toddler, his back is barely bigger than Steve’s arm where it’s resting. He’s not heavy. He barely weighs anything at all when he sits like this with his legs either side of Steve’s ribs. 

“Are you ready for our day out?” Steve asks him. “We’re gonna go rollerblading. Did mommy tell you? It’s a toddler disco, and then we’re gonna have pizza. Mom says you love pizza.” 

“Yeah, an’ ‘ronis.” 

“Yeah?” Steve asks, thrilled to be understood and to understand what he’s saying. “I’m gonna get you a huge pepperoni pizza, extra pepperoni. And mommy said you’re pretty good on your little rollerblades. That’s so cool.” 

Noah maybe doesn’t get the last part, but it doesn’t matter. Steve’s tone is making him smile, and he hugs Steve’s neck with a surprising ferociousness. 

“What did you say to him?” you ask, stepping back out of the door, closing it behind you. “He’s gone shy.” 

“I just told him I was gonna buy him a pizza!” Splteve defends. 

“No, it’s a good thing. It just means he’s feeling loved up,” you say, scratching the nape of Noah’s neck. 

“Oh. Good. That’s great.” 

You nod knowingly. “Pretty great. My two best guys getting along.” 

“I’m a best guy?” Steve asks.

You slot yourself into his side with a low lying confidence that has his heart like a hammer in his chest. “Best guy,” you confirm.

You’re unafraid when it comes to him, you have been since you met. You flirt, hug, even kiss without hesitation. And now Noah’s clinging to Steve like he’s known him for months, it’s nice. It’s pretty much everything he’s ever wanted, or the precipice of it, and he’s not going to get ahead of himself but he’s just happy to be liked without any holding back. 

“Can I kiss you?” he asks, quietly but not shyly. 

You pout obligingly, chin up, eyes shutting in total trust. Steve holds Noah away from you rather than have everybody smash their faces together and ducks down for a quick kiss that turns into two, the second of which is soft, and an attempt to show you what he’s feeling without saying it. 

You pull away but bring your hand to his hair, threading your fingertips into the shorter strands by his ear. He’d like to think you’re saying the same thing he was. 

“Mommy,” Noah says. 

“Yeah, bub?” you ask, distracted where you brush Steve’s hair down. 

“Kiss too?” 

You lay your gaze on him with mirth. “Yes! Pucker up, Noah. Gonna give you the biggest one, and then we’re gonna have to get in the car before we miss toddler skate. Ready?” 

You kiss him and tickle his tummy. Steve bites back a cheesy, awful grin. Two new best friends is a sweet deal. 

[grapejuicenharry]

Angel (part 2)

In which Harry and Y/N go on their first date- as a couple. (3k words)

warnings: smut 18+, fingering, fluff, kissing, soft h

✶⋆.˚꩜ .ᐟ˙⋆ . ✶⋆.˚꩜ .ᐟ˙⋆✶. ⋆.˚꩜ .ᐟ˙⋆✶ ⋆.˚꩜ .ᐟ˙⋆✶

Harry had been thinking a lot. Ever since he and Y/N made it official, he’s been meaning to take her on a real date—their first date as boyfriend and girlfriend. These last few days had been a whirlwind for Harry. That night when they made their relationship official still felt surreal to him.

Y/N was coming over to his apartment today to hang out and have dinner together. They had planned to watch The Notebook since it was both his and Y/N’s favorite film, and eat the Chinese takeout that Harry had ordered. This had been their routine for the past few days—hanging out every day after college at each other's places, ordering takeout or cooking together, simply enjoying each other's company, sleeping next to one another, and soaking in the bliss of their relationship.

༘˚⋆𐙚｡⋆𖦹.✧˚

“Would you like to go on a date with me?” Harry suddenly blurts. They were both sitting on couch while the movie was playing, Y/N was too engrossed in the film, while shoving popcorn in her mouth, legs resting on harry’s lap when she hears him. It took her few seconds to register what he was saying. "I want to take you on a real date. Since we’re already dating, I thought we should," he adds nervously, fidgeting with his glasses.

Y/N couldn’t help but grin. He looked so adorable, fidgeting with his glasses while asking her. Truthfully, she never minded that they hadn't gone on official dates—spending every moment together already felt like dating. But now that Harry was asking, excitement bubbled up inside her. "Yes, of course, I will!" she replies, jumping onto his lap. Harry beams, clearly pleased by her enthusiasm. 

She wraps her arms around him while settling into his lap, the movie playing softly in the background. “So, where are you taking me? Are we going to the Chili’s near campus?” Y/N asks excitedly.

“No, we’re not going there since we eat there almost every day,” Harry replies with a laugh. Y/N was adorable; she really thought Harry would take her to the same place they usually go after college. “But I can’t tell you—it’s a surprise.”

Y/N pouts playfully, trying to coax out more information. “Come on, just a hint?”

Harry shakes his head, grinning. “Nope, that would ruin the fun. You’ll just have to trust me.”

She rolls her eyes dramatically but can’t hide her smile. “Okay, fine. I guess I’ll just have to wait and see. But it better be good!”

Harry chuckles, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “I promise, it’ll be worth it. Just enjoy the movie for now.”

As they settle in, Y/N feels a mix of curiosity and excitement, wondering what surprise Harry has planned.

────୨ৎ──── ────୨ৎ────

Harry had organized a picnic date in the fields, knowing how much Y/N adored picnics. She had mentioned several times how she loved nature, surrounded by fresh flowers, sitting on the grass, and enjoying the sun. He packed a basket with her favorite snacks, including sandwiches, various fruits, candies, chocolates, and a cooler filled with juice and sparkling water. He even picked a bouquet of wildflowers to give to Y/N. 

Y/N was thrilled. She had been eagerly anticipating this day, even finishing all her assignments yesterday so she and Harry could enjoy the weekend together. Dressed in a baby pink sundress as Harry requested, her hair tied back with a white bow, and pink heels adorning her feet, she felt giddy with excitement. A mix of nerves and anticipation swirled in her belly, especially since Harry refused to reveal their date destination. She had tried every trick in the book to get him to spill, but he didn’t budge. 

She looks at herself for the last time in the mirror and hears her doorbell ring. She furrows her brows while wondering who is it. Harry never rings the bell to come in her apartment, She hurriedly opens the door to find the man of her dreams standing there, Harry

Harry stood there, dressed in a light pink silk shirt that matched hers, the sleeves pushed up to his elbows, revealing the tattoos on his arms. His glasses framing his perfectly handsome face, while his messy curls looked like he’d run his hands through them one too many times. In his hands, he held a small bouquet of wildflowers.

“Hi,” he finally managed, his voice soft as he cleared his throat, his eyes darting nervously to her and then away. Y/N looked breathtaking, and he couldn’t help but fumble his words. “You look so beautiful, Y/N,” Harry mumbled, barely above a whisper, his cheeks pink as he stared at her, completely in awe.

“Thank you,” Y/N replied, her own cheeks flushing. Harry always had that effect on her. Her eyes fell to the flowers in his hands. “Are those for me?” she asked, smiling.

“Yeah… I, um, I picked them because I know you like them,” he said shyly, extending the bouquet, his hands shaking slightly as he offered them to her.

“They’re so pretty, and they smell amazing. Thank you,” she said sweetly before rising on her toes to kiss him softly. Her lip gloss left a faint shimmer on his lips, and though Harry’s face flushed even more, he secretly loved it.

 ༘˚⋆𐙚｡⋆𖦹.✧˚

The ride to the field was quiet, but in that comfortable, intimate way they both loved. The windows were slightly down, letting the cool breeze filter through the car as they drove. Soft music filled the space-Harry had made a playlist just for her, full of her favorite songs, and Y/N couldn't help but smile every time she recognized another one.

His hand rested gently on her thigh, his thumb rubbing slow, lazy circles over her skin, sending little shivers up her spine. While she played with his rings on his fingers. She felt the warmth of his touch, the way his fingers absentmindedly traced patterns, and it was enough to make her heart race.

She still had no idea where they were going. The road seemed endless, stretching out into the countryside, and the mystery was starting to get to her.

She glanced over at Harry, whose eyes were focused on the road, a slight smile playing at the corners of his lips when he realized she was staring at him. He knew what she was about to ask. 

"Where are we going, Harry?" she asked for the third time in the past thirty minutes, curiosity lacing her voice. 

Harry playfully threw his head back and groaned, glancing at her, his smile getting wider. "Just a few more minutes, love," he murmured, giving her thigh a gentle squeeze. "I promise, you'll like it."

Her stomach fluttered with anticipation as the scenery around them began to change.

She looked out at the endless fields of sunflowers, bright and cheerful. Different types of flowers swayed gently in the breeze, making it feel like they had stepped into a whole new world. Trees surrounded them, their leaves rustling softly in the wind.

As the sweet smell of fresh flowers floated in through the window, Y/N closed her eyes and took a deep breath, feeling refreshed. Harry noticed her reaction and rolled the window down further so she could see everything better. The wind rushed in, tossing her hair around her face.

She turned to Harry, who wore a huge grin, his own hair flying in all directions. In that moment, everything felt perfect. They were lost in this beautiful scene, and nothing else seemed to matter.

“Cmon let’s get out” he mutters. Y/N excitedly fumbled with her seat belt, While harry opened the door for her, extending his arm. She immediately took and hopped out. 

༘˚⋆𐙚｡⋆𖦹.✧˚

“This is beautiful, Harry. I’ve never been to a place like this,” Y/N said, stopping mid-step to face him as they walked through the field. Their hands were intertwined, swaying gently in the breeze, with flowers tangled in both of their hair.

“Thank you for bringing me here,” she added softly, wrapping her arms around his neck before kissing him deeply. “This is the best date ever,” she whispered between their kisses.

Harry chuckled, pressing his forehead against hers. “There’s more, baby,” he murmured, a playful glint in his eyes. Y/N furrowed her brows, curious, but before she could ask, Harry gently pulled her toward the back of his car. Her eyes widened in surprise as he revealed the assortment of things he had packed.

She gaped at the sight of the picnic mat, snacks, cooler, sandwiches and candies. Her heart swelled as she watched him, his thoughtfulness making the moment even more special.

YIN stood there, watching in awe as Harry finished setting everything up. He spread out the soft picnic mat under the tree's shade, its branches swaying gently overhead. Se couldn't help but smile at the sight of the cooler filled with her favorite drinks and the pile of candies they both loved. Everything felt so perfectly thought out, so them.

"You really outdid yourself," she said, still smiling as she sat down on the mat, pulling him down beside her. Harry gave a shy smile, rubbing the back of his neck, looking a little embarrassed but proud.

"I just wanted it to be special," he said softly, his gaze meeting hers, full of warmth.

"It is. More than I could have imagined," she replied, reaching for his hand, their fingers naturally lacing together again.

She leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to his cheek, making him blush slightly.

They sat there for a moment, munching on the snacks he had packed, taking in the serenity of the field around them, talking about mindless things, laughing at Harry’s jokes, the air filled with the sound of rustling leaves and giggles. The warmth of the sun peeked through the trees, casting a golden light on everything, making it all feel magical. 

Harry laughed, looking down at Y/N, who was lying on his lap, munching on a strawberry. “So, now that we’re officially on a date, does this mean you’ll finally stop stealing my hoodies?” he asked.

Y/N grinned up at him. “Absolutely not. Whether we’re dating or not, those hoodies are mine.” She loved wearing Harry’s hoodies. They were so soft and comfortable, like being wrapped in a hug from him. Plus, the lingering scent of his cologne always made her feel at ease. It was comforting in a way that felt like home—safe, familiar, and somehow made her sleep better every time she wore them. But she was too embarrassed to admit that to him. 

Harry chuckled, shaking his head. “Great. So I’m never getting them back?”

“You could just leave one at my place. Make it official—‘Harry’s Hoodie Collection.’” She was teasing him at this point. 

“Oh, so it’s like that? A whole collection huh?” Harry smirked, running his tongue along his front teeth.

“You know it. And I’m definitely taking your favorite next,” She giggled, pulling playfully at his cheeks.

“You’re evil,” Harry said, nudging her hand away, trying to hide the blush that crept up, knowing how much he secretly loved seeing her in his clothes.

The sun shone warmly above them as Harry and Y/N lay back on the soft mat. The sky was a clear blue, dotted with fluffy white clouds drifting lazily. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves of the nearby trees and made the wildflowers sway. 

The air was filled with the sweet scent of fresh grass and blooming flowers. Birds chirped softly in the distance, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. 

Y/N took a deep breath, her curiosity getting the best of her. “Okay, serious question… when did you start seeing me as more than just a friend?” she asked, biting her bottom lip.

Harry opened his eyes and turned to face her, chuckling as he gently released her lip from her teeth. “Honestly? I think I liked you from day one,” he admitted, his voice quiet. “But I was a little scared to say anything back then. Our friendship was so important, and I didn’t want to mess it up.”

He looked up at her, his expression softening. “But as we got closer, it got harder to ignore. I started missing you more when we weren’t together. I always loved hanging out with you as a friend, but then… I started wanting more than that, and that’s when I knew it was more than just friendship.”

Y/N’s heart swelled at his confession, a smile tugging at her lips. “I felt the same way,” she whispered. “At first, it was just little things—like how you always made me feel safe or how easy it was to talk to you. But then those feelings started growing, and I couldn’t ignore them anymore.”

Harry's grin widened at her words as he leaned in to kiss her gently. Y/N grabbed his jaw, pulling him closer as she deepened the kiss, her fingers tangling in his curls while the other hand rested on his jaw. He shifted, positioning himself on top of her, taking her bottom lip in his mouth and sucking it softly.

The kiss quickly grew heated, both of them eagerly longing for this moment.

Y/N had wanted to kiss him the instant she saw how much effort he had put into planning this picnic, how considerate he was being. She slipped her tongue into his mouth and sucked on it, causing Harry to moan softly in response. Their kiss became a delicious mess of tongues, both panting and trying to catch their breath, their foreheads touching.

Harry began trailing kisses her jaw, his lips finding the sensitive spot on her neck. He gently sucked at her skin, eliciting a soft gasp from Y/N as she instinctively arched her back, giving him more access. His hand gravitated to her thighs as he hiked her dress up, trailing his fingers higher. Y/N parted her legs in response, her breath quickening as his fingers brushed the edge of her panties. Restless with desire, she wanted his fingers closer to where she craved them. She grabbed him by the neck and pulled him in, their lips crashing together. A soft moan escaped her as she felt his fingers pressing against her clit, making her gasp at the pleasure.

Harry began rubbing his finger in tight circles over her clothed clit, feeling her panties grow increasingly damp beneath his touch. Each movement made her wetter, as she lost herself in the sensation as he worked his fingers expertly. 

“More,” Y/N whimpered softly into his mouth, her eyes tightly shut in pleasure, a strand of hair sticking to her forehead as she got lost in the delightful sensations.

“Can I take this off, baby?” Harry whispered gently, tapping two fingers on her panties. Y/N nodded vigorously, unable to form a coherent response in the moment. She lifted her back slightly, making it easier for him to pull down her panties. A gasp escaped her lips as the cool air hit her bare center.

Harry began to rub around her clit, gathering her wetness before inserting a finger inside her. She moaned loudly in response, his finger pumping in and out while his thumb moved in tight circles on her clit, leaving her mind hazy with pleasure. His other hand slipped to her chest, cupping her breasts and pinching her nipple.

“Open your eyes, look at me,” Harry commanded. She obeyed, her gaze meeting his, which was nearly completely black with lust, devoid of any trace of green.

“Are you close?” he muttered, kissing the side of her lips, slick with her saliva. Y/N nodded shyly. Harry added another finger, pumping them fiercely while his other hand gently pulled down the neck of her dress, revealing her breast. Her nipples perking as the cool breeze hit them. He kissed her areola before taking her nipple into his mouth, sucking and kissing it softly. 

As if he couldn’t get enough, Harry leaned down to her breasts, sucking and softly biting a patch of skin, leaving a hickey behind. Y/N whimpers and moans in response, her hands tangled in his hair, tugging at them slightly, her legs wrapped around him.

The sensations became overwhelming for her, tears streaming down her cheeks in pure bliss. Her moans grew louder as the pressure in her belly reached its peak, her orgasm crashing over her like waves, making her cum.

Harry slowly withdrew his fingers, careful not to hurt her as she was still sensitive. She whimpered at the loss, watching in surprise as he brought his fingers to his mouth, tasting her. "You taste amazing, baby," he said before leaning down to kiss her, making her taste herself.

Her body felt limp, muscles relaxing and breath evening out. She didn't realize her eyes were drooping until she noticed Harry gently lifting her dress and cleaning her inner thigh with a wet tissue.

He gently scooped sleepy Y/N into his arms, carrying her to his car. He settled her in the seat, adjusting it slightly to make her more comfortable, and buckled her seatbelt. She noticed that he had cleared everything except for the mat and pillow she had been lying on. “Just a moment, baby, I’ll be right back,” Harry said, giving her a soft peck before folding the mat and placing the pillow in the trunk of his car.

༘˚⋆𐙚｡⋆𖦹.✧˚

The sun was almost set now, hiding behind the array of clouds in the sky. The pink and purple hues of evening began to appear, the air growing chilly as the melody of birds started to slowly fade in the distance. 

As they drove, Harry glanced over at Y/N, who was already looking at him with a sleepy smile.

“What?” Harry asked with a soft smile, growing nervous under her stare.

“I really enjoyed today; it all felt like a dream,” Y/N whispered, taking his hand and kissing the back of it.

“Did you like the picnic?” he asked, his voice soft.

A dreamy smile appeared on her lips. “I loved the picnic; it was the best date ever.”

Harry grinned, his heart swelling at her words. “I’m glad. I just wanted to make it special for you.” Harry had spent countless days planning for this picnic to be perfect; he had never organized a date before, but he wanted to make it special for Y/N. He nearly drove himself mad in his efforts to get everything just right.

“It was special, Harry. I loved every bit of it,” she replied, her voice a gentle whisper.

“I love you, you know that?” he said, glancing at her briefly before focusing on the road.

“I love you too,” Y/N smiled, letting her eyes finally drift shut as the soothing sounds of his voice and the gentle hum of the car lulled her into a light sleep. She felt safe and cherished.

°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･🫧 °❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･🫧 °❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･ 🫧°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･

[weirdgenetic-fuckup]

so.. rockstar ex gf reader x 90s! dave at an award show, coincidentally with the same seating arrangement and their bands nominated in the same category, one of them won and took the other to the bathroom to brag abt the award, iykwim. tytyty ilysm hbvsauiowduh🙏

A/n: HELP MY COMPUTER DIED AND I ALMOST LOST THIS I WAS LITERALLY ON THE LAST LINE I WAS GOING TO KILL SOMEONE anyway I hope you enjoy this <3

Warnings: Smut, angst, semipublic sex, if you think I missed anything let me know otherwise enjoy!

Part 2

All around you were people whispering about your current situation. Someone somewhere decided to sit your band next to Megadeth, your ex's band.

You sat across from him, trying to keep things civil with space but Dave kept staring at you, just waiting for something to happen, even going as far as to toss a few peas at you 'accidentally'.

Still, you tried to ignore him. Your bands were nominated for the same award and you were confident that, if you didn't win, you'd surpass Megadeth.

Your relationship had been no secret and your distaste for each other was well known, clearly whoever put you here knew what they were doing. Everyone was talking about it, any time you walked past someone your name was the last thing out of their mouth, their gaze always led to you.

Part of you hated it more than anything, it felt high schoolish, the whole of it. You were an adult, the people around you were supposed to be adults, how did it lead to this?

The reason was people speculating about the end of your relationship. You had been so happy together for almost two years, people were expecting a wedding, but then it was over and a fire reared its head in the wake.

You wish you knew what to tell people other than to respect your privacy.

Really, Dave came home in a better mood than usual, it was strange but welcomed. He got you your favourite flowers, snacks, the works and he was clinging to you, showering you with words of affection up until you were laying in bed.

You were curled up at his side, head on his chest and trying to fall asleep when your world came crumbling around you.

"I don't think I can love you anymore." He said with virtually no emotion, pain, sadness. Nothing.

The night ended with things being thrown, more tears than you thought you had in you and your throat hurt with how much you were screaming. All you wanted was answers but he just wouldn't give you any.

You packed your things the next day while he slept somewhere else, where you didn't know and didn't care. You were gone by the time he got back and neither of you contacted the other afterwards. Dave started his own band to get back at Metallica and you were determined to do the same, to add salt to the wound.

Until now, neither of you had a reason to see each other and you were more than happy with that, he'd given you everything and for what?

You sat back at your table right when they were about to announce who won the award. You leaned your head in your hand, swirling your drink in its glass as you waited for a name to be called.

You didn't even care anymore, you were tired of the gossip, of the rumors that you cheated on him, that this and this happened, that it was all just a publicity stunt because yes, of course, you and your love for a man who couldn't be bothered to do the same was entirely up for debate how could you be so fucking stupid?

"I know we've all been waiting for this one, the once happy couple sure is cheery, huh?" You glanced up to the announcer, the big screens showing your table.

You looked miserable. You felt even worse. Everyone around you did their best to be presentable but you were ready to flip off the camera crew.

You noticed another unhappy face at the table, Dave. He would still glance at you occasionally but he was glaring daggers at your bandmates beside you, wondering how they could be so oblivious to your sunken mood.

"Anyone know what happened?" The announcer asked, a big smile on his face. A few small laughs sounded throughout the place as tears welled in your eyes.

You wanted to run and hide but you knew you couldn't while they called out your award. So you sat there silently, waiting to hear if all your efforts were worthless. "Well, guess it's time to rip the band-aid off and let the wound bleed." How thoughtful, you thought. "And the winner is!" A soundtrack of a drumroll played even though their are more than enough capable drummers here, something you'd always wondered about. "Megadeth!"

Your ears were ringing. All the cheering, the men at your table standing and excitedly reaching for one another at the award. It felt as though you were being stabbed by everyone's eyes.

You felt a hand on your back. "Are you okay?" Your bandmates voice was muffled like it was behind a wall of foam. You nodded and excused yourself, keeping your head held high as more tears formed in your eyes, just trying to make it to the bathroom.

There was no one else there and you just stared at yourself in the mirror taking deep breaths until you calmed down but the tears just rolled down your cheeks.

The door opened, you expected to look over and see your bandmate but it was Dave. He had a concerned look on his face, those stupid glasses you wanted to rip off of his stupid face and crush them. He'd just go buy another pair but you wanted to.

"Are you okay?" He asked. You carefully wiped your eyes, trying not to ruin your makeup and further.

"Why do you care?" You muttered, keeping your voice low, not trusting it to stay stable.

"Because I care about you." You scoffed at that.

"Oh, yeah, sure you do, you cared so much about me yet you couldn't even be bothered to love me." He stared at you a moment before taking a step closer to you.

"I never said I didn't love you." You opened your mouth to protest but his arms were around you and he spoke up again before you could get anything out. "I said I didn't think I could love you anymore."

You rolled your eyes at him before wiping them again. "What a fucking difference that made." He sighed and leaned down, resting his chin on your shoulder just as he used to, the sight tugging at your heart.

"I love you. I loved you then, I love you now, I never stopped loving you and I never will." More tears came to your eyes and you couldn't blink them away.

"Shut up." You said through gritted teeth.

"I didn't want to, alright?" His voice was deep and soft in your ear, honey dipped silk wrapping around your mind. "My manager made me, said it would be good to get the band out there."

"You chose to break up with me... for fame?" You mustered, not wanting it to be true.

"If I didn't they would have dropped us from the label."

"So you didn't choose me?"

"You're not getting it-"

"I get it perfectly!" You yelled, spinning around and pushing him off of you. "You were already a big band, it would've been stupid to drop you and even if they did someone would've been dying to pick you up." He stared at you, taking in your words knowing you were right. "You didn't love me."

"You can't say that." He said, gaze falling to the ground.

"You treated me like Metallica!" Tears dripped from your jaw to the tiled floor as you glared at him. His eyes shot open. "You were done and you dropped me for what? Publicity?" He didn't say anything.

A long moment passed, neither of you saying anything.

Dave took a step closer to you, then another until he was inches from you. He wrapped his arms around you and closed the gap, his lips crashing against yours.

You wrapped your arms around his neck, pulling him deeper into the kiss. You'd missed him for so long, so many sleepless nights with your hand between your thighs, a random man you'd close your eyes and pretend was Dave but it was never the same.

He pushed you back until you hit the counter. He lifted you onto it and stood between your legs, quickly undoing his pants and letting his half hard cock hit your already wet panties. You let out a slight gasp into the kiss and Dave groaned as he stroked himself.

He didn't bother taking them off of you and just pushed them aside as he pushed into you. He pulled away from the kiss, letting your see just how his eyes closed, how his mouth opened and soft breaths left him.

"Fuck, I missed this." He groaned. His eyes opened and he brought his focus back to you, your eyes as they swirled with lust and hatred, both directed at him. "You are so beautiful, you know that?" You bit your lip, looking down his clothed body until you landed on where the both of you connected.

He took your chin in his fingers and tilted your head up to look at him. "Do you know that?" You nodded. "Tell me."

"I know." You muttered.

"You know what?"

You inhaled deeply. "I know I'm beautiful." He gave a nod of approval.

"And this award means nothing, you know that too, don't you?"

"Yes, I know." He gave another nod.

"You know I love you, right?" You paused. He stared at you expectantly, eyes flickering all over your face, admiring your features. "You'll know when we're done." He kissed your forehead and pulled his hips back before snapping them into yours.

Your eyes shut tight and your lips parted in a moan, you'd waited far too long to feel him like this again, how he stretched you out and dragged against your gummy walls. More moans ripped from you as he set a fast pace, Dave's hands roaming your body and lips kissing up and down your neck, leaving small marks.

His hand came down and he rubbed your clit with his thumb, giving it some well needed attention after months of only you noticing it. Fuck, you loved the way he made you feel, all light headed and your body hot with desire.

A familiar knot formed in your gut, burning a passionate fire that resonated throughout your body. Your voice echoed off the walls while Dave's grunts and groans were save specially for your ears. You weren't concerned with someone walking in on you, let them see, let them hear how good he made you feel and see the love in his eyes as he stared at you in awe.

"Hah- Fuck, Dave, m'close." You mumbled, leaning back on your hands and letting him do the work, it's the least he could do and he was more than happy to do it.

He didn't say anything and kept his pace, his thumb still pleasuring you perfectly. Your chest was rising and falling, breathing laboured and your head rolling back as you felt the strings slipping and finally snapping, loud moans leaving you of cursing and repeated 'Dave' over and over.

He let you ride out your high on him but pulled out and got himself situated again. "Why-why'd you stop..?" You asked, breathing heavy and your eyes lidded.

"Well, I figured if I was gonna show you I love you I didn't need to worry about myself, right?" He said simply as he helped you dust yourself off, so to speak, and off the counter. "I can worry about that later, can't I?" He asked, wrapping his arms around you once more.

You thought about it for a moment as you made your way to the door, Dave still clinging to you. He held you tighter, not letting you leave. "You know I love you, don't you?"

You bit your lip, remembering everything that happened before the breakup. "I know you love me." You said, thinking about how abruptly it all ended.

"And?" He asked.

You looked back at him over your shoulder. "And?"

"Verdicts still out?" You crossed your arms over your chest.

"It'll take more than a fuck in some bathroom for me to consider that." You mumbled and left the bathroom, Dave still following close behind.

[crossfandomslut]

At Peace in Your Fire (pt2)

Summary: Y/n goes into the the Cauldron, and ends up in Velaris. A strange place with a sentient house and hopefully some new friends. Y/n much navigate what being fae means for her now.

Pairing: Future Eris x Reader ! Eris is in this chapter y'all! It's not much haha I'm dragging it out !

Word Count: 4,900

Notes: I'm so glad people liked the first chapter and I hope you stick with me to see where this story goes ! I wanted to get to know the reader a bit more, and have interactions with the other characters to add depth to the story and who the reader is so that she's not just some rando haha Please comment your thoughts and opinions, I love hearing what you liked about it so I can try to make each chapter better than the last ! Hugs <3

Find part 1 here

Her life flashed before her eyes as the Cauldron scanned through her every memory, as if in search of an answer, but she didn’t know what the question was. All she felt was cold. As the Cauldron raked through images of their mother and her neglect as Feyre and Y/n did whatever they could to get her attention. Even if she was yelling at them, it was better than being ignored. It took Y/n a long time to realize that Nesta wasn’t ‘lucky’ for having all their mothers’ attention. The cold continued to settle into her bones as she watched her mother get sick and their father fall deep into depression after losing his fortune. Flashes of what she had to do with the baker’s son to feed the family some weeks, of Feyre being taken away by Tamlin, of Nesta looking so hopeless as they searched for their sister, and finally of tonight, being taken from their home in the night, the pain of her sister’s faces and the fear that shot through her as her toes touched the Cauldron’s edge. Deeper and deeper the water soaked through her too thin nightgown, into her skin, and settled in her bones. the water the warm when she first touched it, but as she felt herself drift further toward the bottom, an icy cold took over her senses.

At last, a flicker of warmth ran through her as memories played of watching Feyre, Nesta, and Elain try to fit into the too small bed of the cabin as Y/n curled up right in front of the fireplace, laughing at her sisters bickering for space and urging Nesta to move her cold feet away from them. Eventually, her sisters stopped bickering and they too started laughing. Those were the glowing moments of joy they were able to find in the darkest times. The warmth in her body spread as the next memory played; the four of them dancing around a bonfire in the late Summer, early Autumn. Laughing and dancing like idiots because Y/n was able to convince the baker’s son to sneak her a cake. They hadn’t had a real cake, with icing and candles, in years, but she had seen it through the window and knew she needed to share it with her dearest sisters. The leaves were just starting to change color and the warm fire light casted the already orange and red leaves in the most stunning light.

The last memory that played was the night that Nesta brought home paints for Feyre. In the low light of the evening fire, Y/n begrudgingly gave up her spot directly in front of the flame so that Feyre had the best light to paint in. She painted their tiny dresser drawers with something to symbolize each of them. Nesta had her own dresser, full of the beautiful-and large-dresses their mother used to make her wear. Nesta requested her dresser be painted black. Simple, but a bold sentiment. Y/n’s drawer, of course, was painted with flames. It was a well known fact to everyone who met her that Y/n was drawn to the heat and comfort of fire. Sweet Elain’s drawer was painted in the flowers she loved to tend in the rather pathetic gardens. And for a reason she didn’t understand at the time, Feyre painted her drawer with the night sky. Dazzling stars and a bright moon to look down on her wherever she may be.

Y/n’s chest started to glow at that memory and finally she felt warm again, seeing that dingy old cabin, that fireplace lit, and the lives it made brighter, warmer, safer.

A sudden rush of the Cauldron’s freezing water had Y/n gasping for air that was no where to be found. She wasn’t drowning, but she wasn’t breathing either. She was stuck in this terrible, dark, cold place and feeling like all was lost. So, she spoke into the void, “you may take my body and soul, as long as you promise to watch over my sisters. Keep them safe and happy and whole.”

“Your eldest sister took something from me. Something very dark and very important. You are in no position to make a bargain for her safety.” The voice came as a harsh whisper that sounded like death itself. “I will get back what she took, and more, but I haven’t met a being a very long time who was willing to give. For that, I will reward you. What gift I have bestowed upon you, you must find out for yourself. It will either breathe life into what you love most… or suffocate it.”

With those final words spoken straight into her heart, Y/n felt the world shift as she was dumped from the Cauldron, back onto the ice-cold stone floor, soaking wet. The King of Hybern’s magic lifts just enough for Feyre to rush to her and cling to her like life depended on it.

The following events at Hybern will be scarred into Y/n mind for the rest of her newly immortal life. Lucien's painful screaming that Elain was his mate, the human queen going into the Cauldron and coming out old and decrepit because of what Nesta stole from it, Tamlin demanding that the King break the bond between Feyre and Rhysand, and Feyre saying that Rhys had her under a spell all this time.

If it weren’t for their relationship as twins seeming to strengthen now that they were both Fae, and for Feyre’s daemati powers, Y/n would have freaked the fuck out. Lucky for them all, Feyre explained the whole plan, albeit almost too rapidly for Y/n to understand given what she just went through in the Cauldron. Y/n played along and acted disgusted by Rhys and horrified as he winnowed her away. The cry of her sister's name was not forced or faked.

When they landed in what she could only assume was the Night Court, a beautiful female with eerie silver eyes and black hair came rushing around the corner. “Where is she?”

Rhysand explained everything. Only after calling for his best healers to help Cassian and Azriel. By the time he finished, Mor appeared after hiding Y/n's sisters away somewhere that they could rest and process.

“She is your mate, not your spy. Go. Get. Her.” The one with silver eyes, Amren, demanded.

“She is my mate. And my spy. And she is the High Lady of the Night Court.” Rhysand said softer, but not weakly.

“What?” Mor gasped.

Rhysand explained it all, and finally said, “Your High Lady made a sacrifice for her court, and we will move when the time is right.”

“Until then?” Amren asked sharply.

“Until then,” Rhysand spared each of them a glace, “we go to war.”

Mor showed Y/n to her room, told her to ask the house for whatever she needed, and that she should rest for as long as she needed. And that they were all here for her when she was ready to come out.

The first thing Y/n asked the house for was a fire to be lit. She was ready to get on her knees and beg for the heat of it, but when the house responded immediately, Y/n let out a sob and threw herself on the floor in front of the large hearth. She sat with her legs tucked under her, staring into the dancing flames as tears streamed down her face and choked sobs rocked her body. She stared into the blaze. Fire, she thinks, looks alive but is not. It dances and sways in the phantom wind and dries the tears that had long stopped coming. Y/n wished she could climb straight into the inferno and wrap it around herself to make her bed. For a moment she wonders if her new Fae body would allow such a thing, before she grabs a plush red dyed wool blanket, and a soft enough throw pillow from the couch, and she curls up in front of the glowing heat and sparkling embers. Right where she feels the safest and most at home.

Y/n slept off and on for four days if she’s been keeping track of time correctly. The house delivered food, that at first, she was hesitant to touch, because what does a house know about cooking? But once she got hungry enough to try the steaming soup and heavily buttered bread it delivered for dinner on night two, she ate her words. Literally. The house quickly learned that Y/n preferred black tea and something sweet to eat at breakfast, something light and fresh for lunch, and a hearty dense dinner. The fire had remained lit since the first night, when the house thought it would be okay to let it die out once Y/n fell asleep, and Y/n woke up screaming and shaking, nightmares plaguing her. The fire had not gone out again. Not even a flicker.

Y/n was feeling rested and eager to learn if there were any updates about her twin in the Spring Court. She needed to know if Feyre was okay. When she swung the door of her bedroom open, Rhysand was standing there, smirking, looking like he knew every thought in her head.

“I’ll need to teach you about mental shields.” His smirk grew, “you’re just as bad as Feyre was when she first got here, practically shouting your thoughts. I could probably hear you from the house of wind.”

Y/n blinked at him. Sure, she knew that Feyre’s daemati powers allowed her to speak into people’s minds, but to just openly heard other’s thoughts? How miserable that must be.

Rhysand gaped for a fraction of a second after hearing her thoughts, before his brows furrowed. “You- you’re not angry or afraid about the invasion of privacy?”

“I mean, would I prefer you not listen? Sure, but you just said you’d teach me to block you out, so really, I just feel bad for you both. I never want to know what’s going through other’s heads. That’s their business and it probably gets gross and annoying.”

There’s a silent pause before Rhysand throws his back and laughs, “It does get gross, and annoying,” He straightens again and says, "thank you, Y/n. Not many understand that or think about how it feels for us.”

“So then you probably already know that I was about to come find you and ask about Feyre?”

“Yes. Let’s talk about it once you’ve had a bath and change into clean clothes. Have you been sleeping and living in that for four days?” He eyes her absolutely filthy, no longer white, nightgown that she had been wearing when the Hybern soldiers took her.

“Yes. Yes, I have, Rhysand. But I will take that bath and clean clothes. I smell like the deer I killed the day we first met.” Y/n’s face scrunched at the memory of the stench that she never got used to, even after all those years of hunting with Feyre. “I’d say I would come find you, but you’ll probably know exactly when I’m ready.” She winked and tapped her finger to her temple before turning on her heel back into her room. The house must have been listening, because a hot bath was waiting for her in the bathing chambers. Soaps and oils that smelled like pine and cedar, a crackling fire, and the forest after it rains. Y/n had never smelt anything so lavish. Never smelt anything that captured the feeling of home so thoroughly.

Ridding herself of the disgusting nightgown, Y/n went to dip a toe in the steaming water and stopped. It felt so much like the Cauldron. But Y/n, like always, reminded herself to be adaptable. She was fine. This room was nothing like that place. This place had bright windows that lit up the room. She could see the bottom of the tub, nothing like the dark mirky waters she was forced into. She was fine and she was safe. Y/n prided herself on being able to choke her feelings down. She thought that if she could intellectualize her feelings, they wouldn’t be able to control her. It hadn't come to bite her in the ass yet. She calmed her racing heart, and plunged into the hot water and washed herself clean of the memories using the soaps that smelled like home. Those smells soothed her soul like a balm and she started to feel like herself again.

After taking her merry time in the tub, the house keeping the water hot as long as she needed it, Y/n stood and grabbed a towel from the vanity in the corner of the room. Y/n hadn’t looked at herself in the mirror yet, but figured now was as good of a time as any. She sat on the round cushioned stool and slowly lifted her head. She tilted her head back and forth, examining the subtle changes that suddenly made her Fae. She tucked her hair behind her ears to reveal the exaggerated, but soft, pointed ears. Smiled at herself to get a look at the elongated canines, and noticed how bright and sharp her eyes looked. She didn’t have her twin’s steely blue eyes, her father said she had his mother’s eyes. Y/n looked into her own y/e/c eyes and just blinked a few times. She was most definitely Fae now. And she would adapt.

Getting dressed quickly, Y/n stepped into the hall to find Rhysand, already waiting for her. He examined her loose, flowy brown pants, and the soft grey seater she chose. “No Night Court black?”

She tripped over her own foot at the words, “oh- oh no, I’m sorry, I’ve offended you. I’ll go change-!

“No! No, Y/n stop,” he gently griped her arm to prevent her from running back in her room. “It didn’t even occur to me that you might feel comfortable in something else. I’m the one who’s sorry.” He tilts his head, so their eyes meet.

“I just feel better in colors that remind me of the woods we grew up in. It makes me feel like myself in their new, strange body and this new world we’ve been brought into. I did not have any intention of disrespecting you or your home, Rhysand.”

“Please, Y/n, call me Rhys. We are family now, right? Humans would call us, ‘in-laws’?” His smile grew as Y/n’s lips twitched into their own smile, his hand dropping from her arm.

“Of course, Rhys. I’m glad to know my sister has found someone who loves her so well. I look forward to getting to know you as we work to bring Feyre home.”

“Yes, let’s get to work on that. Follow me.” Rhys guides her down the hall and through the foyer into a large seating area. Mor, Cassian, Azriel and Amren are all speaking lowly. Rhys clears his throat as he and Y/n enter the room, and all eyes fall on Y/n. More is the first to stand up and wrap her in a tight embrace. Y/n is shocked for a brief moment, before wrapping her arms around Mor in return.

Mor pulls back with tears in her eyes to say, “we love your sister so much. We are honored to have you in our family too. We will get her back.” Y/n smiles at her fondly and Mor turns to sit back down next to Cassian. Cassian and Azriel both smile and wave at her, just like they did the first time they met in the human lands. Amren and Y/n exchange nods, and Y/n predicts that is the most emotion she’ll ever see from the female.

Rhys is the first to speak next. “Let’s get started shall we?” He took a seat in the remaining armchair, and Y/n took up a spot on the floor, directly in front of the fireplace. Her favorite place to be. “Y/n, you don’t have to sit on the floor. We can ask the house to provide another chair.”

“I’m perfectly content right here, but thank you, Rhys,” Y/n went as far as to shuffle further back toward the heat.

Azriel’s usually calculated expression fell as he stared at her in total confusion. Never had he seen someone look like they wanted to be consumed by flames. He couldn’t even comprehend it. He schooled his features when he felt Cassian pop him in the ribs with his elbow and clear this throat.

“As you wish. Azriel, I know you’re still recovering, and I do not want you to push it, but have your shadows told you anything?”

“Not much. Feyre is still hardly allowed to leave the house, Lucien is still warry of her, and Tamlin is none the wiser. She isn’t eating enough.” He says the last part so quietly and with so much anger, a shiver runs down Y/n spine. She decides to never get on Azriel’s bad side.

“Have you heard from her? Can’t you two talk through your minds or something?” Cassian asks.

“Not much. We don’t want Tamlin, or Lucien for that matter, to get suspicious. But when we do speak, she sounds so far away and it’s an effort to keep the line open. Something isn’t right, but I don’t know what it is. When she was in Spring before it wasn’t this hard. It has to be Hybern’s presence there.”

“So all we can do is sit around and wait for more information?” Mor asks incredulously.

“I wish it could say otherwise, but for now, yes. Azriel and Cassian, you need to heal and get back to training, so we’re prepared when something changes and we have to move.” They call nod their agreement and accept that it’s all they can do right now.

“I want to train too.” Y/n’s voice startles them, as if they forgot she was there.

“Of course, we’ll work on your mental shields and-“

“No- I’m sorry- I don’t mean to interrupt. I mean, yes, I do want to train with you to build my mental shield, but I also want to train with Cassian and Azriel. I want to feel strong. I want to be strong. I never want what happened in Hybern to happen again. I never want to feel helpless like that and I want to help my sister.” Y/n was firm and confident when she locked eyes with Rhys, even as tears welled in her waterline.

“Okay. Whatever you need, we’ll do it.” Rhys looked at her like he could see right through her. To the scared little girl who lost her mother, who had to learn to hunt and steal and sell her body for godsdamned bread. She had never felt so vulnerable, and she quickly broke the stare.

“Are you okay with that?” Y/n asked Cassian and Azriel.

“Yes.” “Of course.” They replies in unison.

“Thank you.”

The day turned into evening and the group is still sitting around the tiny coffee table in that grand living room. Just relaxing in each other’s presence and sharing stories with Y/n, learning more about her. “Everyone thinks that the fire painted on the drawer was for Nesta because she is so fierce, but it’s not true,” Y/n chuckles fondly as she thinks of her sharp tongued eldest sister. “I have always been drawn to the flames. Even as a baby, my parents had to keep candles far away from me.” That gets a laugh from everyone in the room. Even Amren lets out a short breath that could be considered a laugh.

“So which one was Nesta’s? Don’t tell me it was the flowers,” Cassian asked. You could tell he was attached to her, even though they had only a few brief interactions and Nesta was far less than pleasant.

“Nesta had her own full wardrobe, painted black and full of dresses our mother stuffed her into when she gave her those awful etiquette lessons.” Y/n shuddered at the memory. And then paused, just now realizing that she had no idea where her sisters were. Her heart started racing and her eyes shot to Rhys’s, knowing he had already heard every thought.

“They’re safe. They aren’t adapting as well as you are, but they’re safe and they’re okay. I promise you; I will not let anything happen to them.” Y/n laughed internally as that word. Adapting. It’s what she was best at she supposed.

Weeks had passed and Y/n had been dedicated to training with Cassian and Azriel at least once every day, sometimes twice if her energy is pent up enough. And she has a lesson with Rhys everyday too. She’s learning to read, and her mental shield is solid. Her body had never felt so strong. It was a real hit to her ego though to learn that she had been carrying her body weight wrong and lifting deer over her shoulders incorrectly her whole life. Training with Azriel was calmer than training with Cassian. Azriel moved with so much grace and control and was making you learn all the movements and balance exercises. Cassian was intense. Teaching you how to move swiftly to block and avoid kicks and punches. The fact that was going easy on you was an even bigger hit to your ego.

On this particular day, Y/n trained with Azriel in the morning, noticing how much more balanced her body felt, could isolate muscles and utilize them. After lunch was her lesson with Rhys. She’s able to push him out of her mind now, still with some effort, but she doesn’t break out in a sweat now. She spent the afternoon resting and reading when Cassian stormed into the library and asked if she wanted to train. That brought them to the training area on the townhouse. Cassian complains that it isn’t as big as the one at the house of wind, but it did the job. Cassian had just gotten back from visiting the house of wind and he was angry. He was throwing punches and seeming to forget who he was sparring with. He was moving too fast and punching too hard, but Y/n couldn’t seem to get the words out to tell him to stop. He advanced forward and as she backed up, she stumbled, allowing Cassian to land a punch straight to her jaw. Her head rattled but before she could even register the pain, she yelled, teeth bared and fists clenched to her side, “ENOUGH CASSIAN!”

The world stopped, and after two, three, four heartbeats she realized Cassian wasn’t breathing. He was staring at her as his eyes went wide and he grabbed his throat. He crashed to his knees and reached for her hands. Releasing her tight grip on her own fists, air rushed back into Cassian’s lung. He gasped for breath as Y/n fell to her knees too and let out a sob. “I am so sorry Cassian. I am so so sorry; I don’t know what happened. I’m so sorry.” She somehow managed to get the words out between sobs and gasping for air.

“Y/n, Y/n it’s okay! I’m the one who’s sorry. I can’t believe I hit you, I am so sorry Y/n. Please, look at me, I need you to breathe. I’m okay. I’m sorry.” He held her and rocked her back and forth until her heartbeat slowed to a normal pace and she could lift her head to look at him. “Shit. Rhys is going to kill me when he sees that bruise on your face. Mor might beat him to it though. I’m so sorry.”

Y/n stands up and walks to the bathing room down the hall. Cassian ran to her when he heard her start…laughing? The picture in front of him as he skidded around the corner was one he could never have predicted. Y/n was clutching her stomach, leaning over the sink and laughing hysterically at her reflection. Cassian had punched her so hard that the bruising started at her jaw and gave her a black eye. Cassian was horrified, but Y/n just kept laughing, so eventually, he did too. Mor, Rhys, and Azriel came running around the corner too, wondering what the commotion was about. When they saw Y/n face, a collective, “what the fuck Cass?” Was sounded by the other three Fae. This made Y/n and Cassian double down and laugh even harder.

When they caught their breath again, Cassian stood up proudly, patted Y/n on the back and said, “I helped Y/n discover her powers today. No big deal,” he said with no small amount of smugness.

“You mean you needed a punching bag and I had to defend myself?” Y/n quirked a brow at him.

“Semantics!” He argued.

“Wait wait wait, Y/n has powers?” Rhys’s eyes went hazy as he mentally called for Amren. “Tell me everything.”

Y/n recounted the events of their fight and how she literally took his breath away. She didn’t know she was controlling any magic; she hadn’t felt it rise up, but it must have subconsciously come to her defense.

“You’re going to have to drop down to one lesson with Cass and Az a day and pick up an extra with me and Amren. We need to learn more about this power. Power gifted by the Cauldron itself is new territory for all of us. We don’t know what the boundaries of your power are.” The sudden seriousness in Rhys’s face felt sobering as Y/n and Cassian were pulled out of their laughter and back into the reality of who and what Y/n was. Cauldron made.

Another few weeks passed of training non-stop. The magic was a lot harder for Y/n to figure out than the fighting. As of today, she can suck the air out of a room that’s about 12ft by 12ft and hold it for five minutes before faltering, and she can send a blast of air and knock Cassian over from 30ft away. Cassian was used as the dummy for both tests as an apology for decking her in the face.

Y/n was in the middle of her reading lesson for the day when Azriel came crashing into the room. “We found her. Feyre got out of Spring; we have to get her. We need your help and your magic.”

She was up in an instant. She didn’t care that she wasn’t in fighting leathers, she just needed to get to her sister. Before she had a chance to ask any questions, Azriel grabbed her and jumped from the balcony. Y/n hadn’t flown before. Never wanted to be a burden to the Illyrians. But wow, what an experience. Azriel quickly caught up to Cassian and the three of them flew swiftly and precisely.

“Where are we going?” Y/n noticed the moment they left Velaris and the landscape changed to an icy tundra. She missed the heat and comfort of her spot in front of the fireplace in the library already.

“The Winter Court. I’m sorry there wasn’t time to get you in warmer clothes. I know you have a hard time with the cold. I should have prepared you.” Azriel felt terrible, but Feyre needed them. Y/n would adapt.

“It’s okay, Az. Feyre is more important. I’m okay,” and she meant it.

The touchdown was quick. Not a lot of time to slow down and land gently. The Illyrians landed and shook the ground. Azriel was softer about letting Y/n down. Before her was quite possibly her worst nightmare unfolding. Her twin sister, her favorite person in the entire world, was being restrained by the thing that brought her the most peace. A strange male was standing above her sister, using his gift of fire to hold her at her wrists and her neck. Y/n was frozen in place. Her mind went blank as her body was slammed with fear and disgust at the gross misuse of the flames licking at her sister’s throat. It felt like a violation to her very core. Her very soul was raging at the sight. Not only for her sister being in danger, but because of the way the male was using the thing Y/n held closest to her heart and found the most precious, as a weapon to do harm.

“Y/n! Y/n!” She was thrust back into reality by Cassian’s large hands shaking her back to consciousness. She blinked at him a few times before looking over his shoulder to see Azriel already taking down the other red-headed males and saving another. Lucien. Lucien was on Feyre’s side? Blinking again and trying to remain present, she and Cassian turned to the male holding Feyre. “Now, Y/n.”

With those two words form Cassian, Y/n approached the male, and he had the audacity to laugh at her. Granted, she was still in her house slippers, baggy linen pants and oversized sweater, so she wasn’t looking her most intimidating. But he quickly stopped laughing as Y/n lifted her hands above her head, closed her fists, and threw her hands down to her side. It didn’t take long for the male to realize that he could no longer take a breath. So focused on clawing at his throat, he didn’t notice that his flames had no oxygen to restrain his hostage either. Cassian, being well versed in her magic, ran into the void she’d created, grabbed Feyre, who unfortunately also couldn’t breathe, and got her out of your field of magic. Azriel was there with Lucien in a second, Mor winnowing in to grab Y/n, Cassian, and Feyre.

They landed in the townhouse seconds later, Azriel and Lucien not far behind. Y/n was in her sister’s arms before anyone could blink. They held each other tightly, but Feyre looked over Y/n shoulder to Mor.

“He’s on his way. He’s far away, but he is rushing home to you as fast as he can. He felt the bond and sent us ahead to get you.” Mor was crying too, and Y/n turned to wave her into their hug. Right now, her sister was home and everything else could wait for tomorrow. Even if Y/n couldn't stop thinking about that red haired male on the frozen lake today. the way he laughed at her and made her feel small, and she sucked the air from his lungs like it was nothing. She thought it would have made her feel good. but it didn't, and she wasn't sure why. She would fall asleep picturing his fearful face for many nights.

Taglist: @abysshaven @minaethrym @ivy-34 @stained-glass-eyes0708

[tremendouscreationperson]

Logan x Reader pt.14

More memories

I'm sorry this is a little short I have more and wanted to post more but whenever I tried to add it to my draft Tumblr said no - they'll have to be in a new chapt ? - it was really vexing me last night and has continued to this morning

<<Part 13 Part 15>> Masterlist

Storm's eyes scanned you, she was waiting for you to break. Waiting to pick up the pieces. But you wouldn't falter.

You gave her an honest smile. “How's your plants?”

It was minute but her eyebrows rose. “They're coming along beautifully.”

“My Storm always found it peaceful in her garden.” You picked at a mark on the door. “Always brought me amazing flowers.”

The inner dilemma was plain to see. She was trying to conceal it but you knew her, knew her tells and expressions.

“I don't need a tour.” You put her out of her misery. “It's just a little surreal to be here but not be.”

She was quiet a moment longer before, “You might not need a tour but do you want one?” She gestured behind her. “I can show you my flowers. I hope they're just as nice.”

You took her in then. Her striking hair and glamorous clothes, her kind eyes. She was every bit the Storm you knew. Of course you wanted her tour and of course you wanted her company, whatever she'd offer you'd take.

She was your friend.

You missed her.

“Please.” The word was small.

Storm turned on her heels, her hair flowing as she did, and led you away.

//

Storm led the group into the Professor's study.

You were all pissed.

You'd been on a failed mission and each of you had suffered.

There was a cocky girl, she wore red leather and a cynical smirk.

“My father won't let me kill you.” Her accent was thick as she rolled her eyes. “But I can mess with you.”

With a snap of her fingers you were all flung backwards and out of Genosha.

“Guys?!” Rogue shrieked as she looked down at her skin. It was blue and hairy.

Your head snapped to Hank who was… he was human! He looked startled and as he got upset the clouds above him darkened.

“The fuck is going on?” Logan's eyes snapped to you, you felt fine, didn't feel any different.

“Check your power, try and-” You balled a fist as you spoke - in a gesture to him to use his claws - but as you did three bones sprung out of your knuckles. You shrieked in pain but it eased as quickly as it formed.

Logan's hands were on you in an instant, his capturing your own, but when he touched you you felt awful. Sick, weak, drained. Big purple veins appeared on your skin as he sucked the power out of you.

“Get off her!” Rouge ordered and Logan dropped you.

Storm was the first to stand, her hands were on her hips and she was pacing. “We need to get back. We need the professor.”

“We need to work out what she did to us!” Logan argued.

“And who she is.” Beast added. “And her father. It couldn't be Magneto, could it?”

You heard the following conversation but we're too preoccupied with trying to squeeze your bones back into your arm. They were nauseating to look at. They had weird bumps but not knuckles and they were glistening!

“Why are they wet?” You asked no one in particular, after failing again to sheath them.

“It's okay, they'll go back in.” Logan wanted to pat your back but didn't. “Just try to relax.”

“There's bones sticking out of me.” How wasn't he understanding? This was fucking mental! “I think I'm at the appropriate level of calm.”

“C’mon, let's get back to t’ jet.” Rogue managed to sober up quicker than you for someone who was blue. She looked like a furby.

The flight was fucking awkward.

Beast couldn't control the weather so there was an obscene amount of turbulence which made your claws extend which made Logan go to touch you before Rogue threw her shoe at him.

The cycle repeated until she was throwing pieces from the medkit.

Storm was the level headed pilot but even she was having trouble with your forcefields. The jet locked in one with a particularly bad cumulonimbus.

You covered your mouth with your shoulder, “I might throw up if I have to look at my bones any longer.”

“I'm trying.” Storm raised her hand to stop the field. “I can't get rid of it.”

“You need to f-” You gagged. “Feel the field. Hold it.”

The face she gave you filled the whole team with hope. “How do I 'feel' the field?” It was an inanimate object. It didn't technically exist until she made it. It was unlike her clouds, they had life. She merely contorted them.

“I don't know! How do you feel the clouds?”

“That'd be helpful to know.” Hank jolted as thunder rumbled.

None of you were much help to the other but you did eventually find ourselves back at the mansion.

Charles was ready, waiting for you. “What happened? You're all dif-”

“We don't know her name.” Storm informed him. “Look into my mind, see her.”

Charles' eyes flickered between hers and he frowned. “I haven't come across her in Cerebro.”

“She's next level.” Rogue gestures to her body. She was taller and her suit had ripped due to the wider build.

Hank brushed his brown hair out of his eyes. “She mentioned her father. I believe she meant Magneto.”

That struck a chord with Charles. He tried to pretend it didn't but you caught the twitch of his eye. “I'll have to seek her out.”

~~

It was two weeks later and you still hadn't been fixed.

And to make matters worse Charles’ annual fundraiser was next week. You were all meant to make an appearance, a united front, to show the world that mutants weren't chaotic animals. You were as sophisticated as the yuppies who made the bills and funded places like HYDRA and AIM.

But more importantly than that you were fucking embarrassed. Every time Logan entered your line of sight you got excited or your heart rate increased causing the claws to pop out.

It was mortifying to have everyone see. Yeah everyone knew you were together and you were attracted to him but it was so stupid for you to essentially get a boner when he was just sitting in the kitchen eating toast.

“I hate you.” You smacked your head against the counter, taking the seat next to his, the claws seemed to retreat if you hurt yourself; something Logan loathed but it was a working system so he could fuck himself.

“Claws say otherwise.” He winked at you, itching to kiss your lips. He hadn't been able to touch you for weeks, he was wound so tight and extremely fucking horny.

“You're literally having breakfast and they just appear.” You spoke against the marble, your nose flattened on it. Smell was also something you had to get used to. Everyone smelt vastly different and Logan was ludicrously scrumptious. You could smell him everywhere and hear him. Late at night when he had to relieve himself, cumming into his han- You forced the thoughts from your mind, shoving them anywhere they couldn't hurt you.

“It takes years of practice, kitten.” The claws shot straight back out and you groaned. “You're not the only one that struggles with them.” He admitted, whispering into your ear. “I find it hard sometimes.”

You rolled your head to the side to look at him. Logan gifted you a sweet smile and you groaned again. “Stop looking at me like that.”

“Can't help it.”

The two of you had to separate to sleep at night because A) you could kill him with the claws and B) he could kill you with the power absorption.

“Miss you.” You rubbed your covered knee against his.

“You too, gorgeous.”

~~

Dressing for the gala was daunting. Your dress was exquisite and you really, really, didn't want to ruin it.

Logan was able to wear his suit but added an expensive looking turtleneck under the jacket and gloves for obvious reasons.

Rogue flat out refused to attend.

Hank enjoyed blending in with the crowd, wearing a blue suit and slicking his hair back.

Storm did go, she had to as the to be Queen of Wakanda and a high profile mutant. She was wearing a sleek mermaid dress which matched her betrothed’s suit.

Charles was sweating.

He was very worried that this would go to shit.

And it definitely could.

But not only because of you.

He had invited Erik and his children.

Yup.

ChildREN.

Wanda, Pietro and Lorna.

The girls were witches, powerful, scary witches. Pietro was a mutant also, his power was superspeed which could be equally as dangerous but you wanted to take extra care around the girls.

Across the room Erik and Charles were speaking in hushed tones, the former rolling his eyes as the latter spoke.

“Hello.” You forced yourself to approach the children. Wanda - the one in red - raised a brow. “I’m Y/N.”

“Wanda.”

“I'm Pietro, that's Lorna.” Pietro had paper white hair and the same smile as his father. Lorna had Wanda’s nose - it must run in the family - but looked different. Her hair was darker and she was paler.

“That was an impressive move.” You compliment.

Wanda again gives you nothing more than a subtle change in expression.

“She wants her powers back.” Lorna cut to the chase, she didn't have the russian accent, merely an American one.

Wanda smirked. “I know.” Pietro chuckled.

Logan stepped up behind you, you could feel his presence more than see or hear him. “Everything alright here?”

“It's great," You supplied. "I just wanted to introduce myself to the heirs of Genosha.” You gave an awkward nod and blasted finger guns - I don't know why either - before retreating.

Logan led you to one of the food tables and handed you a plate.

You accepted it and shovelled food into your mouth. “I have no idea why that happened.” You admitted with your cheeks full.

“Me neither, I go to the toilet and you're talking to the enemy.”

You scoffed over a cream puff. “They're just kids.”

Logan eyed them, folding his arms. “Dangerous kids.”

"I thought if I spoke to them normally they'd realise we're just like them. We're all in the same boat or some shit." You sighed and swatted the crumbs off your lips and cheeks. “Okay, I'm alright now.”

“You eaten enough feelings?”

“Shut up.” You shoved his shoulder. “But you were right to bring me here, I haven't eaten today.”

“I know.” He glanced at you. “You were too nervous.”

“This is a big responsibility.” The claws were being very good. They hadn't come out at all tonight and you didn't want to be too optimistic but you were very proud. “I don't want to fuck up.”

“If you fuck up, I'll fuck up right next to you.” He promised.

You chuckled, wishing you could kiss him. “Good, my ride or die.”

“Speaking of… you-” He took a deep breath, “-wanna dance?”

You stared at him with wide eyes. Yeah, he'd taken you to the cinema and he'd taken you for dinners and he even splurged for the opera but at somewhere official like this he was always business.

You wore his earrings and matched your dress to his pocket square or tie but neither of you had actually danced before! Not publicly. Not when the world was watching. He didn't want people to know you were his in case they exploited that. What happened if you were harmed to get to him?

There were paparazzi here.

What if you stabbed him?!

“Don't overthink it. Yes or no.” He asked you but his eyes were glued to the crowd.

“Okay.” You breathed before you could say no. Fuck it.

If you go down he goes down.

You had the feeling neither of you cared as long as you were together.

Logan offered you his gloved palm and you accepted it, letting him lead you into the crowd of people. He kept you by the edge but you weren't on the outside.

Shit, you probably should have mentioned, “I don't know how to dance.” You whispered as he arranged your arms in the correct positions, one on his shoulder and one on his forearm.

“I do.” He didn't elaborate but led you in an expert waltz. Twirling you around the dancefloor in sync with the other couples. You followed his lead with ease, melting into the warm feeling it brought.

Logan's eyes were trained on you as you glanced around the room. He wanted to kiss you so badly. Wanted to claim you as his in front of all these important hot shots. Wanted the world to know. He was ready for that. Ready to accept the risk and forever be your protector as long as everyone knew you were his.

But he couldn't.

He could barely hold your hand.

So he dipped you as low as possible, making your breath stutter - your hands pointing away from him in case the wretched claws sprung to action.

“You're getting good at controlling them.” Logan commented as he straightened the two of you.

“Years of practice, kitten.” You echoed his words. “It's easier in the evening, don't ask me, I don't know why. But it is.”

Logan laughed and released you to bow as the band finished the song.

“May I have this dance?” Magneto spoke behind you. You hadn't even risen from your courtesy as he asked.

You turned to see if he was speaking to anyone else but nope. You were the only one in the surrounding area. The only one he was interested in.

“Uh, yeah suuure.” You nodded. It would look rude if you didn't. The mutants couldn't be divided. That was the whole reason he was here in the first place!

“I'll have her back in one piece.” Erik winked to Logan before sweeping you away.

Your eyes were on Logan, as Erik positioned you in the centre of the dance floor, your chin touching your shoulder before you had to turn to your partner.

Logan was angry but he didn't show it, and he was suspiciously quiet when Mangeto spoke to you. Erik must've clamped his jaw shut.

You were amazed that Logan could still operate with an Adamantium skeleton but he did and you were not going to question it because if you did it would give you a headache.

“I hear my Wanda has inconvenienced you and your team.” Erik spoke diplomatically.

You fought the scoff, keeping the pleasant mask on. “Just a tad.”

“I do apologise, I'll speak with her.” The tempo was faster with this song so he spun you out and back in.

“Thanks..?” You were confused. Why had he brought you to the centre? Why was he dancing with you? And why were your friends watching you with bated breath? Did they know something you didn't?!

Erik nodded but didn't speak, merely leading the dance. You wish you knew the name of this one, it was a fast waltz?

“Okay, why are we dancing?” You blurted out.

“Well, I couldn't ask Chuck could I?” He sassed, bringing your hips closer to his and he walked you backwards.

“Would you like to ask him?” He gave you a suspicious glare. “Couldn't your kid make his legs work?”

Erik considered that. “Possibly, but I won't ask.”

You let that settle, trying to catch Charles’ eyes. ‘READ MY MIND. READ HIS MIND. WHAT IS HAPPENING CHARLES?’

‘I wouldn't do that if I were you.’ Wanda’s voice taunted.

You accused. “Your daughter’s spying on us.”

He looked over and quirked his head. “Is she? Which one?”

“Wanda.” You grumbled. “Who's the mother?” You would've bet money that Erik and Charles were messy exs. Yeah, he could be bi but you had always assumed...

“Natalya was the twins' mother. Suzanne was Lorna's.”

You repeated the word: “Was.”

“What else happens to us mutants but humans?” He gave you an aloof shrug. “To get to me they were murdered.”

What do you say to that? Was he planning something? He couldn't show Charles up like that. The two had history, yeah, but you knew Erik. You'd worked with him. He was brash and angry but when something like this was happening, something important, he played the game. He let it unfold.

Then again… the two of you were still dancing surrounded by humans, in the centre of Charles' fundraiser. Perhaps this wasn't an innocent chat.

Maybe he wanted you to fuck up.

If anyone would, it was you.

“What's happening Erik? Why are we dancing?” You repeated, slightly defeated.

“I wanted to talk to you, away from your guard dog.” Your eyes found Logan again. He was still frowning animatedly at the two of you. Jean was at his side trying to talk to him but it was no use.

You met Erik's gaze again. “Go on then.”

“Your powers-” A sarcastic laugh escaped you. “Your original powers are wasted. You have the potential to control your own energy. I don't think you quite grasp how powerful one could be.”

You were confused. “They're force fields.”

“They could be more.” He twirled the two of you, just narrowly avoiding another couple. “Try to build something other than a bubble.”

“Gee, I'd love to.”

He wasn't phased by your sarcasm. “What power do you currently possess, then?”

“Logan's.” You tightened your grip on his hand.

“And your animal?”

“He's our rogue.” There was nothing to lose telling Erik, his daughter would tell him if you didn't.

“And that firecracker? Where is she?” His brows met in genuine curiosity.

“That man over by Charles is Hank McCoy. Rogue happens to have hi-”

Magneto burst out laughing, faltering in his expert steps, hundreds of eyes flew to you both as the music had begun quieting down. “I would pay to see that.”

You roll your eyes, still in his hold.

“I'll get your powers fixed and I want you to consider my words. Consider joining us in Genosha.”

He knew you wouldn't. Why would he even ask?

What had given him the impression that you would?

Copying the couples around you, the two of you bowed at eachother.

\\

Storm opened the door to her garden and you were swamped in heat.

From the floor to the ceiling there was greenery, an array of floral arrangements and confusing smells.

She led you to a small wooden table where there were little sproutlings. “These are the newest, Hank and I have been trying to genetically modify plants.”

“Why?” The question was genuine.

“To release more oxygen, to get better herbal remedies. Aspirin came for a willow tree, think of what else we could do. The illnesses we could help.”

She was so inherently good. A prime example of a caregiver. That's why she and T’Challa were an exceptional couple. They helped so many people in your world. Mutant and Human alike.

“Do-” Should you ask? Was it allowed? “Do you know T’Challa?”

Her eyes betrayed nothing. “I do know him, we've met briefly.”

“Oh.”

Met briefly?

They weren't a couple?

Storm wasn't a queen?

“Why's that?”

No, you really shouldn't have asked. Committing rookie mistake after rookie mistake. You couldn't tell her in case she sought out or avoided her life.

“No reason.” Your head shook and you took a step back, making a hasty exit. “I'm going to go, I’ll see you around.”

//

You were laying on the grass again. It had been a fucking terrible day.

You hadn't been able to save them.

Your fields hadn't stretched fast enough. Fifty students were dead. And the remainder had taken Erik up on his offer and joined Genosha.

All because you thought it would be fun to go on a school trip.

You should've known better.

Should've known despite the galas and love when you saved the day, the humans wouldn't accept you.

At least the Sentinels made it quick.

“Y/N.” Logan spoke next to you, he was sitting. When did he get there? “It isn't your fault baby.”

Those words caused your tears to reappear, face contorting in sorrow.

“Come here.” He pulled you upwards and into his lap, stroking your hair.

He and Scott had taken the Sentinels out whilst you failed at your one job.

“It isn't your fault.” He spoke slower. “You are not to blame.”

“Bu-but I couldn't.” You hiccuped. “They're dead.”

“You saved more than I could've.” He smoothed your hair. “I'm serious, what could my claws do? Your fields saved people.”

You let him shush and run his fingers through your hair. You didn't deserve this but loved him. Loved that he still cared. He didn't push you to the side because of what happened.

The two of you just sat there, you nestled in-between his legs, your temple on his collar.

“I wanna ask you something.”

You tensed up. Here it comes. Just rip the bandaid off, just break up quick please.

“Will you-” He chuckled. “Calm down.” Placing a kiss on your forehead, you relaxed slightly. “Y/N, I want you to be my wife.”

That was nowhere near what you had thought he wanted to say. You pulled back to stare at his face. “What?”

“Be my bride?” His eyes crinkled as he smiled sweetly down at you. “I wanted to wait, to take you out, spoil you but today proved we might not have a tomorrow. Showed me I should just ask.”

You had no words.

Hell yeah, you wanted to be his wife!

But you'd killed people.

You weren't worth the loving gaze he was giving you.

You couldn't. Shouldn't.

“Y/N. Talk to me, what's happening?”

He knew you too well.

When you had your hysterectomy you'd vowed to be honest with him. That you'd get through anything together. “I don't deserve your love.”

Logan let out a scoff that turned into a disbelieving laugh. “Yes. Yes, you do. I'm the one that doesn't deserve yours.” He wiped your fresh tears and kissed your nose. “I've done horrible things but being with you-I love you so much. You make me better."

You sunk back into him. What he had done didn't matter. You didn't care. He was Logan. And you were Y/N. It was always Logan and Y/N. You two vs the world.

Maybe he felt the way you did.

He didn't care that you made mistakes, like you didn't care he had.

“Okay.” You nodded. “Yeah. Let's get married.”

Logan grinned maniacally and kissed you. His thumbs wiped your tears as he deepened the kiss.

It was wet and you both were both still fairly shellshocked but it was perfect.

Logan produced a small box - black velvet - and you knew what would be in there. “Had this a while.” He opened the box and placed the ring on your finger.

It was a simple band with a small diamond. A man of practicality, if you were to wear this daily it couldn't be too flashy, not when you suited up as an X-Man.

@littlecrowtime @geeksareunique @lovelyvaderx @br3nt-12 @st1nkabutt @maximumchilddreamland @catiwinky @ravenmedows @electricreader @vulgarfuckinvirgo77 @bisasterbisexual @tzurue @narniansmagic @seamlessepiphany @4ria790 @caramelatae @mei-simp @slightlymediocree @h0n3y-l3m0n05

“It's beautiful.” You admired your hand in his. He kissed your temple again and pulled you in tighter.

.

.

Part 15

[onboardsorasora]

Very random idea I had, based on a silly conversation with @chaosinstigator and @mael-bloggy 🤣🤣🤣🤣 but I managed to make it fluffy (I'll do the rest of the proper linking and tagging tomorrow) not edited.

Part 16

Max placed the plastic plate of food on the breakfast table and chuckled when Little Daniel barely looked over from where he’d been staring at the television for the last half hour. They were back in Monaco, back at Max’s home– well it was also Daniel’s too. Max still felt that way.

Testing had gone on without any hitches and Little Daniel had enjoyed his extended time in the paddock. He was one of the mechanic crew now, ‘helping’ them do a practice pitstop and everything. His grin had been so large when he’d helped Calum use the wheel gun and he’d bounced around giddy, for hours.

“Daniel, you should eat your apples before they turn brown.” Max prompted, brushing wild curls backwards.

“Yucky brown.” Little Daniel declared, reaching blindly for a slice and chewing loudly. “Yum Maxy!”

“You like it? Thank you for telling me.”

Little Daniel grinned at him before his attention was arrested by the TV again. Max watched his familiar profile, once again fondly noting how it was achingly the same as when he was grown up. Even the mole in his hairline was the same.

They watched TV together while Little Daniel ate his snack. The documentary was focused on farms and agriculture, Little Daniel had surprisingly been hooked.

“Maxy! Look at the-the sheeps!” Little Daniel pointed as the sheepdog herded the fluffy animals.

“They're sheep, not sheeps.” Max corrected gently, “look at them go!”

Little Daniel looked over at Max quizzically, Max could see the gears turning in his head.

“But it's prulal- plural!” he insisted and Max bit back his smile.

“Yeah, but sheep is plural. So we don't add the S at the end.”

Little Daniel nodded, accepting Max's answer and turned back to the screen. He ate two more apple slices before “Maxy look at the baby shoop! He's naked! They tooked all his wool!” Little Daniel pointed to the screen, watching to see if Max was looking.

“They did! But it's not cold anymore so they did it to make sure he doesn't get too hot. Then he'll be an overheated sheep.”

“He's one! No plural Maxshy. He's a shoop!” Little Daniel corrected, waving an apple slice.

Max smiled fondly. “No he's a sheep. Sheep is singular and plural. It's weird I know.” He chuckled at Little Daniel's disbelieving face. It was the same face older Daniel gave when he thought Max gave him dubious information and thought he was fucking with him.

It felt like a punch to the gut, the ache. With how painfully familiar it was.

“No Maxshy. Teeth is with tooth so sheep is with shoop.” Little Daniel nodded at his own logic.

“You are a smarty pants aren't you?” Max grinned, thinking of a way to explain it. It was reminiscent of a similar conversation they'd had previously on Daniel's farm. When Daniel had laughingly told him that it'd taken him forever to accept the explanation about why sheep was singular and plural.

Max drew from Daniel's own explanation to him. He pulled Little Daniel into his lap, smiling down at trusting honey eyes.

“English is really silly but it's ooolllddd–”

“Like Helmut?” Little Daniel chirped around some apple and Max snorted.

“Like Helmut. And because it's old it was really really simple. Farmers had their herds and they referred to the herd as one unit instead of multiple animals within the herd. So it's a herd of sheep rather than a bunch of individual sheep. Liiikkee a bouquet of flowers instead of a couple flowers.” Max floundered for more examples while Little Daniel watched him consideringly.

“Like Maxshy and Daniel?” He asked and Max wanted to melt into a puddle, maybe.

“Yeah like us.” Max's voice wobbled and Daniel grinned at him before turning back to the TV that was now showing a herd of what looked like antelope.

Max stared at the slope of Little Daniel's nose and his wide curious eyes. They were a unit, a ‘them’. Max and Daniel, Daniel and Max.

And Max was determined that they would be again.

[cruzerforce4256]

I'm feeling like writing lately, so I've thought of a scenario where the reader, who always jokes about their friends, will court Cale to the ends of the earth if ever they get isekaid into TCF (lol, this is me to my friends; they are really concerned at this point). Then some god heard this and was like, Alright, bet. They send the reader to the TCF world as a personal maid of Cale for fun and tell them that they need to make Cale fall in love with them before the story ends (just part 1), or else they will go back to their world with all of their memories about Cale gone. 

So in order for Cale to feel a bit relaxed around them, they told him that they were from a different world and read 'The Birth of the Hero' instead of the TOTCF since we all know Cale will faint if that really happens. They also told him that they felt like he was the same as them because of the changed attitude he was showing recently, and with him going out to feed the dying tree basically confirms it.

Their conversation be like:

Cale: I'll just let you know that I don't plan on getting involved with the protagonists and the war.

Reader whose laughing their ass off inside: Great me too! I'll just stay as your personal maid since I don't want to get involved with all the drama. ♪⁠～⁠(⁠´⁠ε⁠｀⁠ ⁠)

So Cale became a bit more relaxed than before after knowing that they are on the same page then the reader started throwing their cringy pick up lines to him.

Reader: Young master, are you a bank loan?

Cale: *ignores them and continues relaxing on the couch while reading a book and petting the sleeping children*

Reader: Because you have my interest, and I'm willing to pay the high cost.🥰🥰

Cale looked at them with eyebrows furrowed: I'm literally the one paying you to work how are you going to give me a large sum of money

Reader: *Gasps exaggeratedly" does that mean you have an interest in me.

Cale: Go take your meds.

Later on, the reader confesses to cale that they love him, but although Cale is feeling something towards the reader at that time, he is not sure what it is. He isn't really sure if they just see them as a close family who they trust the most or something more than that, and if it is, he is scared of the possibility that something might happen to them, especially with the war going on. So he rejected the reader.

The reader accepted it and told him that he didn't need to reciprocate their feelings, but that doesn't mean that they will give up. They always give him flowers when he wakes up, always stand by his side, supporting him, and, of course, always throw pick-up lines at him. And slowly but surely, cale became clear with his feelings for them, but he still didn't want to confess because of the fear that something might happen.

As his feelings grew clearer and deeper, the reader's time became shorter and shorter. Though they truly love him and want to be with him, they don't want to force him to love them. When they only had a few months left, they started distancing themselves bit by bit from everyone, especially Cale. 

But Cale is observant; he notices how the reader doesn't throw cringy pick-up lines as much as before, which he didn't know was a blessing or not since their pick-up lines were cringy most of the time. On the other hand, it makes his heart flutter. He also notices how they don't really play much with the kids anymore, no longer cheering the wolf kids on the sidelines while they train as much as before, no longer going out with Rosalyn, Mary, and Hannah as much as before, and no longer teasing Beacrox with Choi Han whenever you are together as much as before (I just want to add the last part, lol).

He is suspicious, and Bud, who just wanted to visit, sees him always looking at you and teases him, saying, "You know, if you don't confess now someone might take them.". 

He just gives Bud an irritated look, but deep inside he is panicking. Is this why you don't interact with everyone as much as before? Who is it? Is he worthy of you? Do you know him well enough?

So he confronts the reader if they like someone else in which they just laugh at him, telling him that he is the only one they like. But when he asked about how the reader doesn't interact with them as much as before, they told him that it was nothing and they were always feeling tired lately.

So Cale forced them to have a paid leave. While they were on that he made a plan to confess to the reader after everything is clear. No more possible threats to their lives and just them slacking off with the whole calefam.

When the day finally arrives he can't sleep and just waits for the reader to come to his room to wake him up. As he waits, he reviewed the plan in his mind again and again to make sure that everything goes right and to lessen his nervousness. He is going to take them out in the afternoon in disguise of checking the improvements of the harris village and when the night comes, he will invite them to eat dinner and confess.

Time flies, and it is finally afternoon. He stares at the door, waiting for the reader to come in with a loud noise to wake him up. But hours came, and you were still not there. Feeling restless, he called for Ron. When the scary butler is finally by his side, he asks where the reader are, but Ron also doesn't know. His heart started to pound. He feels like something is wrong.

He got up off his bed and walked straight to the reader's room. As he opens the door he notices a paper sitting on the top of the bed. His heart pounded more heavily as he walks towards the bed and grabs the paper.

He notices that it is a letter from the reader dedicated to him. In this letter, they told him the whole truth about how the book they read is actually the trash of the count's family not the birth of the hero and how they were a huge fan of him. They also state how they love him so much and they always tell their friends about it which led to a god hearing it and sending them into this world.

After reading it, he immediately ordered everyone to look for the reader and for saint jack and cage to come. The letter didn't state where the reader is but knowing that a god put them in this world means that the god had a deal with them.

His mind goes through a lot of questions. Where are they? Which god did they make the deal with? What is the deal that they made with that god? Are they safe? What are the conditions of the deal? Everybody is restless looking for them everywhere

Saint jack and cage finally came with Hannah. Though confused, Cage told him what the God of Death said to her before she came to the villa, GoD said that some god wants to talk to him and to not worry because GoD will be there to facilitate the meeting.

Hearing this, cale immediately told them what's going on while the kids stayed closer to him in order to help calm him down.

Knowing that the god that wants to meet him is the same god that you made a deal with, he agreed to talk to them. When he told the others about this, he suddenly fainted.

Waking up, he saw the GoD looking at him apologetically for making him suddenly faint. Besides GoD is the god that you made a deal with.

Although he is irritated with the GoD for making him suddenly faint he is more worried about you. He immediately asked where you are and what the deal is about.

And though that god wanted to tease him a bit, he decided against it after seeing his glare. The god just smirked and told him all about the deal.

Hearing this made cale devastated. He is too late. If only he confessed sooner instead of making them wait..........If only he became more clear with his feelings sooner...... If only he accepted your feelings the moment they confessed to him.........

There's a lot of what if in his mind.

Seeing him devastated and a lot of regret the god also offers him the same deal he gave to the reader. This time he is the one who will go to the reader's world and is given with the same amount of time that they spend in his. His condition is that needs to make them fall for him even without all their memories about him. If he manages to do so then they get to go back to his world with the reader who have all their their memories back but if he doesn't then he goes back alone and the reader will forever forget everything about him. Though the god wanted to add more consequences if cale isn't successful, he decided not to since he doesn't want to anger the God of Death more for hurting GoD's beloved child.

Cale immediately accepted the deal

This time he is the one who will come to them. This time is the one who will make them fall for him

Note: i'm not really good at writing so sorry for the errors 😅😅 but i still want to share to you guys this scenario that i've just imagine and damn imagining it is 100000% easier than writing it😭😭😭

[leosxrealm]

ᴋ.

pairings: your driver of choice x gn! reader

warning(s): fwb to lover, a lil angsty, suggestive! but no actual smut, happy ending (all characters are 18+)

a/n: inspired by the song k by cigarettes after sex. i originally wrote this with lando in mind but it can be read for any driver!!

!not proofread!

I remember when I first noticed that you liked me back We were sitting down in a restaurant waiting for the check We had made love earlier that day with no strings attached But I could tell that something had changed how you looked at me then

he remembers it was the day after he had gotten his first win. things had gotten a bit out of hand at the after-party the previous night.

he remembers waking up next to you. it wasn't the first time something like that had happened, neither was it the last.

he knew that sleeping with his friend would bring nothing good to either of you. but he didn't care, not when the sex was this good, and you two were still friends later. he didn't care about the future when you made his present feel like heaven.

he would promise you, every single time, that there would be no strings attached. a lie, every single time. but he didn't know it yet, that what he felt for you, was way greater than lust.

he, however, did notice the love that you started harboring for him. it was the morning after, and you two had decided to get breakfast together. after all, getting breakfast with your best friend was normal right?

he had never seen you look at someone the way you were looking at him. it made him feel good, almost proud, that the look was for him. only him.

but, a small part of him wonders, it can't be good for your friendship, right? he should stop. he should stop this friends-with-benefits relationship before it's too late. but he can't.

---

Kristen, come right back I've been waiting for you To slip back in bed When you light the candle

it's late; there's a knock on his door. he opens it to find you standing there. you look stressed as if something's bothering you, he notes.

you say nothing, as you push him against the door before sealing his lips with yours.

it's too hot for him. his knees feel weak. his world starts spinning.

you've got him wrapped around your fingers. he's addicted, to the taste of you, to your body and how perfectly it fits with his.

almost like you were made for him, the same way he was for you.

---

And on the Lower East Side, you're dancing with me now And I'm taking pictures of you with flowers on the wall Think I like you best when you're dressed in black from head to toe Think I like you best when you're just with me And no one else

it's race week, and you're there with him. he's free from all his media duties for the day. you take this as a chance to drag him to explore the city with you.

you're looking at the unfamiliar city, taking in the scene in front of you. and he's looking at you. how could he look somewhere else when your smile alone was outshining the beauty of the city?

you asked him to take a picture in front of a wall covered in mural art. to post it on your socials, you had said, handing him your phone. but he insists on taking it with his instead.

you don't question it, and he's glad. how could he have told you that he just wanted to add more pictures to the collection he already has of you. some taken in secret, some not. you don't know about this. he doesn't plan on telling you.

it's late, you both should be asleep, but you're not. instead, walking around the neighborhood. couldn't sleep, you had said, when you had knocked on his door earlier.

he doesn't complain when you tug at his hand, dragging him to the middle of the park.

it's quiet. it seems the whole world is asleep. except you and him.

you guide his hands to your waist, before putting yours around him. he gets the memo, swaying you both.

he can't explain, if anyone were to ask, but he likes it when it's just you and him, lost in a world of your own.

you look up at him, showing your biggest smile. it makes him wanna kiss you. right then and there. claim you as his. one and for all.

but he doesn't.

---

Kristen, come right back I've been waiting for you To slip back in bed When you light the candle

he's alone in his room, staring up at the ceiling. mind clouded with the thoughts of you.

you're not there, yet, all he could think about was you. he saw you a few hours ago, yet, he still misses you.

he hopes you will knock at his door, like you've done countless times before.

he hopes you'll slip back into his bed, and light up his world with your smile, like you've done countless times before.

but you don't.

---

And I'm kissing you lying in my room Holding you until you fall asleep And it's just as good as I knew it would be Stay with me, I don't want you to leave

he once again finds himself in bed with you. you're asleep. sleeping soundly with your head on his chest.

he wonders if you ever dream of him like he does of you. countless nights that he had spent thinking of you. both asleep and awake.

he knows what he's feeling. he has never felt so about anyone else. and it makes him scared. scared of what will happen if he ever opens his heart to you.

his heart's fragile. and already at your mercy. and he doesn't even know that yet. it would be so easy for you to break it, break him. it scares him. even though he knows you wouldn't do anything of such sort.

he holds you closer, his grip tightening around you, not enough to hurt you. how could he ever knowingly hurt you? he looks at you all lovingly.

and if you were awake right now, you'd tease him, that he was in love with you. and he'd probably laugh it off, teasing you back, that you are the one in love with him.

two idiots. in love. both scared to tell the other how they feel.

---

Kristen, come right back I've been waiting for you To slip back in bed When you light the candle

next time you see him, he finally has the courage to tell you. he's rambling, expressing his love for you.

you shut him up with a kiss, calling him an idiot with a playful smile. he smiles back. because he knows you two are going to be fine.

the next morning, you don't leave his room, instead, you stay there lying there with him. basking in his warmth.

he wakes up a few minutes after you, greeted by your face on the pillow opposite of his, looking at him. a lazy smile adorning your face.

and, he thinks he could get used to this.

[dramaticviolincrescendo]

BFSS vs. MYATB

I had some Thoughts(TM) after finishing “Blooming Flowers, Silent Sorrow” and thought I’d put them out into the universe.

I’m definitely glad that I read the book and plan to start “Jinbao Marries a Wife” after the extra episodes air. That being said, this is nevertheless one of the rare occasions where I actually preferred the show to the novel. I have already rewatched the series more times than I care to admit publicly, but I don’t really see myself reading the book again unless an official English translation is released to see the approved wording and whether anything was left out of the translation I read.

For anyone who plans to read and wants to avoid spoilers, I’ll hide the rest below the cut. If you loved the book, no worries—this won’t be a negative review!

The Story

I’m extremely impressed that the story is basically the same and, in parts where it isn’t, maintains full fidelity to the original plot and characters. Like MDZS and The Untamed, there were some plot points that got shuffled around in order to suit the medium of television rather than written narrative—and only twelve episodes of television, at that—but it didn’t alter the essence of the story or even the overarching plot at all. Some events were consolidated where it made sense (ex., finding Zongzheng Yuzhan’s dahlia and escaping with Xiaoyu), and others were fragmented in a manner that allowed us more time to get to know the characters (ex., Xiaobao delivering the medicine and their intimate moment in episode three being at two different times). Even Xiaobao’s illness, which was shortened to the spring rather than the following autumn, was still written and portrayed in such a way that you really felt the passage of time and how excruciating it could be when finding the dahlias before their window passed was at the fore of everyone’s minds.

There are a few points, however, where I feel like the show was able to add something to the narrative that I found I missed when reading the book, while I didn’t encounter anything while reading that I really wished had made it into the show. To be honest, given how few episodes they had to tell this story and how important pacing was as a result, that really surprised me. Here are some things that come to mind:

Toning down the non-con elements. While the show depicts those moments as almost more of a non-con initiation transforming into something more tacitly consensual as it progressed (or dubious consent due to drinking or drugging), the book really stuck to the non-con focus of their interactions. I was surprised how long it remained that way, as well as how much more Huai’en pushed it by trying to initiate things after the betrayal and poisoning. I know a lot of that is due to the medium—in a show of this nature, I’d have been more surprised if they’d kept it the same. It’s just something I preferred about how it was depicted in the show and felt made the romance a little more believable as it evolved so quickly.

More conversations between Xiaobao and Huai’en. As with the last point, it made the budding romance more believable for me, not to mention adding that extra bit of heartbreak when Huai’en betrayed Xiaobao. In the book, he doesn’t mention anything about his family history or his father after Jin Bao’s asthma crisis; much of what Xiaobao learns about Huai’en doesn’t come up until the latter is already gone. Sharing the truths (or what Huai’en thought were the truths) of his past added to the half-truths of what he’s doing in Jiangnan created a much deeper sense of manipulation for me and added to the weight of both what he does in episode six as well as how he still tries to keep the Jins alive in the aftermath.

The overall character growth. I’ll put more on this in the characters section, but I was left feeling a little disappointed at the end of the book in a way I wasn’t when I finished the show. It’s not that the growth was bad or missing, just that it didn’t feel as deep as the show for me. At the end of MYATB, Xiaobao is more mature and mindful of what his family needs and his own responsibilities in making that happen; in BFSS, he’s mostly acting like a young master again, gallivanting around with Huai’en and bemoaning how useless he can be. In MYATB, Huai’en grows to care about more than just Xiaobao, even though Xiaobao is still his true north; in BFSS, he’s seriously considering killing Xiaoyu out of jealousy in the last few chapters while rescuing her. In MYATB, Su Yin is angry at the situation, not with Xiaobao, and eventually comes to terms with the idea that Xiaobao has matured and can be trusted to make his own choices; in BFSS, we don’t really see the closure to that disagreement, which was one of my favorite scenes in the finale. Again, nothing wrong with how the book portrayed things, but I felt there was a certain growth in these characters in the show that I’d have liked to see mirrored there.

Xue Tong’en’s ubiquitous presence. She’s startlingly absent in the book while her presence in the show seems to be the backdrop to everything. Zongzheng Yuzhan’s obsession and even madness are palpable in the show, and his strange hatred for yet attachment to Huai’en is especially moving. All of that was absent in the book except for a couple of mentions in the overall narration and Zongzheng Yuzhan’s unwillingness to relinquish Xiaoyu. I just didn’t feel it like I did while watching MYATB.

Their strange but heartwarming little found family. My jaw dropped to see Zuoying and Youying peace out during the final battle, leaving Huai’en to fend for himself, and Zhaocai have an off-screen love interest he was determined to marry before he, too, caught a case of bisexuality. (His sentiment, not mine.) No tearful farewells after a year of huddling together for survival? No beautiful little scene of Huai’en’s two shadows keeping him alive until help arrived? No Zhaocai-Xiaoyu tag-teaming to interrupt Xiaobao and Huai’en at every turn? Don’t get me wrong—the two of them going off on their romantic road-tripping was satisfying, but… Well, as someone who sees platonic and romantic relationships as equally important, I was a little sad to see that it’s just…them.

First, the raid; next, the cure. Having Xiaobao’s remedy come last made Huai’en’s journey feel like there were higher stakes for me. In the book, it’s like tying up a loose end—“bring back Xiaoyu, and I’ll fully forgive you.” In the show, Huai’en gets to see what’s at stake and can make the conscious decision to inconvenience and further endanger himself by taking Xiaoyu away. He knows Xiaobao still loves him and has to just sit there helplessly while he continues to go through episodes that leave him unconscious for hours or days; he has to leave without saying goodbye, with no prompting from Xiaobao to bring Xiaoyu back or ultimatums on his forgiveness. And if he failed? In the show, that’s it for Xiaobao; in the book, it’s just whether his sister comes home, which Huai’en isn’t as bothered about even if he’s willing to die for it. For me, it read as a little more…transactional in the novel, so it wasn’t quite as emotionally stirring. Plus, waiting until later to heal Xiaobao meant Su Yin and Huai’en had to work together after everything that happened between them, which may have gone a long way towards that reconciliation I mentioned.

Li Gongxiang. …That’s it. ‘Nuff said.

All the little things that made the characters more real. Obviously, visual mediums are going to fill in personalities in ways that written narratives can’t, but MYATB did so in such a way that I deeply missed those details when they weren’t there. Zhaocai and Jinbao’s odd sleeping arrangements. Xiaobao and the dancer…and the guy in the restaurant… Shaoyu coming back to stake his claim only to get out-bratted by Xiaobao. Youying royally screwing up and putting the Jins on alert, necessitating an in-universe convoluted plot to make it seem like a random jianghu misunderstanding. None of it was necessary, no, but it was fun and made me care more about the characters as I watched. The only moment like this in the book that really stood out to me was Su Yin tickling Xiaobao into submission, which was honestly amazing. In any case, adding depth to the supporting characters that wasn’t there in the book added more to the main characters as well, so I missed those small details as I read.

The Characters

I know it seems like I covered that already, but there were a couple of specifics that really stood out to me regarding character choices and personalities in the book compared to the show. As with the story, there wasn’t much I felt hadn’t been incorporated from the book, while there were elements from the show that I did miss seeing as I read. Overall, I thought the show did a fantastic job of taking who the characters were on a fundamental level in the book and enhancing them with certain narrative choices.

Huai’en: I am unspeakably grateful for whoever decided to age him up to 20. It facilitated the conversations he had with Xiaobao that deepened their relationship and made the romance more believable. With that added maturity, his cold manipulation makes a lot of sense for his character rather than the angry and violent outbursts that the teenage Huai’en in the book was prone to. Even in MYATB, Huai’en experienced a few of those, but they only came at pivotal moments and, as a result, had more meaning to me. (Note: not morally right, but still meaningful.) On another note, I was mourning the loss of his scene with the emperor as I read. The majority was still there, namely the blood test, dahlia, and refusing his title. However, exonerating the Jins was a huge moment that contributed to his reconciliation with Xiaobao and their ability to live happily later. For me, it was more moving to see him take that initiative in the show rather than have it offered to him as an incentive for providing information that could free Prince Shen later in the book.

Xiaobao: …It’s the word “lecherous.” I just can’t get past it! In the show, we’re made aware that he’s frequented brothels in the past, and no further details are given. His attempts to woo “Miss Zheng” are slightly sleazy, but they hardly count as “lecherous,” which I really liked. It’s more of a wide-eyed “she could kick my ass in any context and I’d thank her for it” situation than…well, “lecherous.” (Nope, still can’t get past it even when I use it.) With an aged-up Huai’en, I think that having Xiaobao be more of an adorable wannabe player matched a bit better. He was still that way in the book, but the sexual element was a lot more prevalent (namely trying to switch positions), while MYATB moved him past that very quickly.

Su Yin: As I mentioned above, I really mourned the loss of their closure. In the show, we see a Su Yin who goes through hell trying to avenge Xiaobao only to learn that he needs to take a step back and trust that Xiaobao can take care of himself. He isn’t that same spoiled young master who needs Su Yin to constantly come to his rescue anymore by the end, and Su Yin has seen Huai’en’s sincerity even if he will never be able to forgive Huai’en’s indiscretions himself. Su Yin is very similar in much of the book, but I felt that their roads diverged some after Xiaobao went to warn Huai’en about the trap at Chifeng Cliff. In BFSS, we never really see him get over that, and his anger is truly at Xiaobao—he even insults him multiple times. MYATB shows it as concern with Xiaobao’s self-esteem and seeming willingness to degrade himself, shortly followed by understanding and acceptance, however hesitant. I loved that growth for both Su Yin and their relationship, so I was quite disappointed that it wasn’t the same in the book.

Que Siming: This was a case where expectations didn’t meet reality. I’d heard from people who read the book how he was the only one rooting for Huai’en and Xiaobao, but…that wasn’t entirely the vibe I got. It was still there, as it was in the show, but perhaps it was his personality that made it a bit difficult to see. In the show, Que Siming is eccentric, self-serving, and arrogant. However, there are moments when he displays genuine emotion towards Xiaobao’s suffering and Huai’en’s fate that show he really does care, even if his taste for gossip outweighs most other things a lot of the time. In the book, he was mostly just mean. The self-serving arrogance was there, but I didn’t really see much else. It could have been lost in translation, and I’m sure I’ll have a better grasp of him after “Jinbao Marries a Wife,” but on the whole I was left feeling like he was one of the only characters who was extremely different and far more likable in the show. Props to Kou Weilong!

Xiaoyu: She is one of the other characters who felt extremely different between the two mediums, and I vastly prefer the show’s version. In the book, Xiaoyu almost didn’t even seem like a kid of only about ten. Her dialogue read like a young woman, and I have to agree with the book version of Huai’en that her feelings about Xiaobao were…uh…wow. I definitely preferred Su Yin alluding to a marriage as merely a parting shot at Huai’en. Of course, the context is important: in the book, the Jins already decided Xiaoyu would run the family business, and she was also aware of what had happened to the Xues and that she wasn’t actually a Jin. In those circumstances, it makes sense that she would have been groomed to consider this eventuality without much thought given to their brother-sister relationship beyond just always being together. Still, uh…very glad they didn’t go that route. It also meant she could be more of a child in MYATB and wage a war for Xiaobao’s attention against Huai’en without that loaded underlying meaning.

Zongzheng Yuzhan: In MYATB, he seems to have gotten an upgrade. Even more than just being an oftentimes off-screen, absentee antagonist, he was a character foil for Huai’en. We are meant to see that Huai’en’s understanding of love is twisted, as Li Gongxiang said, because his only example is his foster father’s obsessive and possessive form of love. What makes Zongzheng Yuzhan monstrous is that he can’t change. What makes Huai’en human is that he can. He could have been a monster—a beast, as Xiaobao calls him in the book multiple times—but he takes a different road. That road leads to direct conflict with Zongzheng Yuzhan and emphasizes their differences in a dramatic and captivating way. In the book, that conflict really isn’t there. Zongzheng Yuzhan very easily lets go of Huai’en being Zongzheng Yunlian’s son and urges him to be free until he comes back for Xiaoyu. Perhaps that’s the Zongzheng Yuzhan we’d have seen if Huai’en had visited him in prison, but that steady escalation of their differences until it reached a boiling point made the stakes in the second half of the show that much more impactful for me.

In all, I enjoyed BFSS. It was worth reading and did add a lot of insight into certain scenes that couldn’t possibly include dialogue, especially Xiaobao’s thoughts during poison episodes and his quieter moments as Huai’en insisted on proving what a joke Su Yin’s security was to him. (I’m imagining Su Yin with a clown nose and wig asking, “Am I a joke to you?” Yes. Yes, you are. But I love you anyway.)

Perhaps I’d feel a little differently if I’d read the book before watching the show. Having gone the opposite direction, though, I’m left astounded at how well MYATB took a book with over a hundred chapters, adapted it for the screen, enhanced both the plot and characters, and told the story in twelve episodes with time to spare for an extra fluffy epilogue. There was a lot of love put into the show, and while I did enjoy the book, that may have made all the difference for me.

[kteezy997]

Lady in Waiting-Part Three//King Hal

@gatoenlaciudad thanks for the photo 😉

This is a long chapter, get you a snack and a drink and settle in, my dear ones💕

Warnings:angst, yearning, secret relationship

The next week was going to be filled with wedding preparations: helping Lady Sophia pick out flower arrangements, accompanying her to visit with the dress maker, editing the guest list. You could already feel the exhaustion mounting.

You knocked on your Lady’s door, “Princess? Are you ready to rise for the day? You have a big week ahead of you, dear.” You did your best to sound cheerful, but you knew that most of the work would fall onto your shoulders, which you were dreading a bit.

“Yes, yes, come in!” she called to you from inside her bedroom.

Just as you were turning the door handle to enter, you heard a man call your name, and you knew the voice.

Youfroze against the door, leaving it closed and looking up at Hal.

“Y/n, my lady, it is good to see you. Good morning.” he smiled kindly.

Nothing happened. You told yourself, but your heart was pounding, your mind racing with the memory of the previous night. You cleared your throat, “Yes, good morning, Your Majesty.”

“I trust you slept well?”

Why is he continuing this conversation? “Oh, yes, my lord. Quite well in fact. What brings you to Lady Sophia’s chambers? Is there something the matter?”

Hal shook his head, “No, not at all. I only wished to bid good morning to my bride. But only if she is decent.”

“Oh, how very kind of you. But I’m afraid she is not-"

“Y/n? What is keeping you?” you heard Lady Sophia call out from behind the door. The door opened behind you, revealing the future Queen of England, clad only in her nightclothes. “Oh!” she quickly covered herself, “Your Majesty, apologies. I did not know you would come calling.”

You looked at how smitten she was with him; she was already blushing in his presence. It was a good thing they were to be wed, for if he were any other man, he would be severely punished for seeing the Princess in such a state.

"No apology needed, my Lady. I only wished to bid you a good day and see how you are doing, just a week before our wedding."

"Oh, I am doing wonderfully, Your Majesty. Thank you for your hospitality and for being so kind." Lady Sophia answered in a sing-song voice.

You could not help but notice how formal they still were with one another. They did not dislike each other, but there certainly was not any passion or desire to be sensed.

"That is all I could hope for. Please, do not hesitate to make yourselves at home. I want you to be more than comfortable here," he gazed from Sophia onto you, "both of you. And again, I would be pleased for you to call me Hal, enough with the formalities, really." He smiled and nodded to both of you. You could have sworn his gaze lingered longer on you than the Princess. "Good day, ladies."

Lady Sophia giggled like a little girl as Hal walked away. "See? He is terribly kind, even to the help."

You felt the subtle jab, even if she did not mean it negatively.

"Well, come now." she chirped, "I must get dressed for the day."

……..

Sophia started to gush about Hal, since it was just the two of you in her bedroom. “Did you know that the King is fluent in French? He is endlessly fascinating.”

For some reason, you decided to add your own knowledge to the mix, “He also enjoys horseback riding and a good book in a quiet place.”

She darted her eyes at you, like she was envious of you knowing a piece of information that she did not. “Is that so? And how might you know?”

You shrugged, “I had a short, but friendly conversation with Hal last night. I hope that does not displease you, my Lady?”

Sophia hummed, “No, I suppose it is okay for you to speak to him. I think it might even be a good thing; you can find out things about him for me, so that I may know him better.” she nodded happily.

You frowned, keeping your eyes on her corset as you tightened it. “Would you rather find out these intimate things about your husband directly from him?”

Sophia sighed, “I can only talk to him so much, y/n. I am sure that there are other queenly duties for me to attend to. I cannot devote all of my time getting to know my husband. Besides, I already know that he is handsome, kind, and smart. What else do I need to know?”

You pondered over her words, nodding but not truly agreeing, but she was none the wiser. “Well, I am happy to help you in any way I can, my Lady.” You smiled at each other in the mirror.

As she straightened out her dress, Sophia said, “I think he will be a good father. He is so needlessly kind and present. Nothing like a typical father, he will gladly take part in raising the children, I am sure if it. Ugh, he is so smart and worldly, our children are so lucky.” she sighed.

“You say children as if they are already here, my Lady.” you observed with a small laugh.

“Well, they may as well be. I shall be with child soon enough. My wedding night approaches in merely a few days.”

You had read many books, some of them love stories. You knew what the marital act was. You could cringe at the thought of Hal with the Princess. You had thoughts late last night of laying in bed with him, of him kissing you…

“Y/n! Aren’t you listening to me?!” your lady snapped at you.

“Yes!” you were startled out of your daze, and had no idea what she had said, “Sorry, my Lady, I…got distracted. What is it that you said?”

“I said, the King would want babies straight away, would he not?”

You took a breath, “Yes, I suppose he would.” You helped with the finishing touches of her fashionable look of the day, fluffing out the skirt of her plump dress. You gave her a reassuring smile, “If only the King could see you know.”

“Thank you, y/n. Now,” she clapped her hands in excitement, “it is time for breakfast and then afterwards, wedding planning!”

………..

That evening, long after sundown, you stayed in the dining hall, arranging plates and silverware on dozens of tables. You put everything in its place, just the way the future Queen wanted them.

You became rather relaxed. Sophia had retired to bed for the night, and the other servants had been dismissed. But you chose to stay up for a while to indulge yourself in the quiet and your creativity.

You looked over the flowers that had arrived. There were many different varieties for the Lady Sophia to pick from for the ceremony and the ball to be held afterwards. Her favorites were the white and pink peonies. You decided to take a moment to see how well the florals complimented the dishes on the table scape.

As you placed the flowers in the table, you could hear footsteps. You looked up and saw the dark-haired, green eyed king making her way toward you.

“What are you doing in here all by yourself? And working so late? Did the Princess demand this if you?” there was concern laced in his tone of voice, you could sense it.

“No, of course not. I am here on my own accord, Hal.”

“And why is that, if I may ask?”

“I was enjoying the peace and quiet. And some time to myself, my Lord.”

“I hope I am not disturbing your peace.” he grinned, taking a step closer to you.

“Never, Hal.” you blushed. You knew why Sophia was so taken by him. He had you under his charms as well.

“Good.” he slowly reached out to touch one of the peony blooms. “These are the flowers she has chosen?” he asked.

“Yes. She loves the pink ones.” you answered, looking at him as he looked at the petals.

“Mm,” he hummed, “the future Queen seems to like things all frilly and lovely.” He then plucked one of the flowers from its stem. He turned to you, holding the delicate flower in his fingers. “But the loveliest being to enter these walls is standing before me now, tidying up dining tables for my wedding reception.”

“Your Majesty..” you began, you heart nearly exploded, but you knew these feelings were wrong, and that you had to stop them before they had the chance to blossom.

“Y/n, shh-sh.” he cooed, putting the pink flower up to your cheek, placing the short stem behind your ear as he pulled pieces of your hair back. Hal smiled softly, “Beautiful.”

“We should not meet like this.” you insisted.

“I know. And I know we promised to forget last night, but I cannot! The way I feel when I am with you-"

“It means nothing, my Lord!” you spoke firmly but quietly enough so that no one might overhear. “We hardly know one another, we are friends, even less than, we are mere acquaintances. But Lady Sophia, she is enamored with you, she is excited about this marriage, about future children.”

Hal closed his eyes, nodding slowly, “I know this, but I cannot help what I feel. This is all so new to me,” he brought his hand to cheek, ever so lightly brushing his fingertips on your skin, “and it is so exhilarating.” A sweet smile snuck its way onto his lips.

“It will pass.” you put you hand over his, catching the gaze of his eyes. “Whatever this is, it will go away, just as quickly as it came. It has to. The Princess-" you corrected yourself, “the Queen cannot be embarrassed.”

“So, it does not matter what you and I feel, then?” he asked, his tone nearly dead.

“No, my Lord. You must be her husband. And we need to push these feelings aside.”

“Do you feel them too?” he asked, wonder filling his eyes. Was he disregarding everything you were saying?

You shook your head, “It matters not, my Lord. You need to put your attention on your bride, not me."

Hal nodded, albeit reluctantly. "I do suppose you are right. This will not work in the long run. Sophia is to be my wife and you are her lady in waiting. You and I cannot get involved; it is forbidden." he said the words as if he was trying to truly convince himself of them.

"That is correct: forbidden. And we need to treat it as such.”

“Y/n, I need to ask you one thing and then we can put it away forever, if we must. But I want to know for sure, do you feel the same way that I do about you?”

“And what way is that, my Lord?” you thought you knew, but couldn’t be sure. You were new to this as well. But for heaven’s sake, it felt like you had just met, but had known each other for years at the same time!

“I think I could really love you. I’ve never felt this way before. Never this excited to wake up each morning just hoping to see you, to talk to, to… kiss you again.”

“Hal, we cannot-"

“Just this once, I need to feel the kiss of true love. Tell me, do you feel it to?”

“Yes. Of course I feel it for you, Hal. But,” he cut you off again.

“No, please, let me kiss you, one last time. And that will be the end of it. You have my word.” he touched your hair, idly caressing the strands, he could not help himself, it seemed. “I need to feel it. I am not likely to get the opportunity to experience true love without you, so indulge me, please.”

You understood him completely, you were fated to a life exempt from love as well. Sure, Sophia may pick a husband for you in the future, but it would not be a love match. You would not be able to choose a partner for yourself. “Very well, your majesty.” you answered.

As Hal leaned in and your lips met, so softly, you knew that this was it. You could feel the love in your bones. This was unlike anything you’d ever imagined. No storybook in the world could have prepared you for the thrill of the King’s lips on yours or his hands on your hips.

You felt warm, like there was a fire burning inside of you. You could feel adrenaline building in your core.

He kept the kiss chaste, but massaged his lips against you, softly groaning through his closed mouth. His slid his hands onto your lower back, pulling you closer to him in the process.

You put your hands to his chest. “No, Hal, we must stop.” you warned when you pulled away from the kiss.

He sighed, ducking his head down and putting his face into your neck.

Your body knew how near he was, your blood was pumping. You felt excited, like you wanted to hold him and kiss him all night long. You put your hand on the back of his neck, letting your fingers graze into his soft curls. Forbidden. This could not go further, you knew it.

“I must leave you now.” he whispered against your skin. He lifted his head to look at you. He gave you a nod, “Goodnight, y/n.”

@gatoenlaciudad @thebetawolfgirl @musicandbooksaremyhappyplace @softhecreator @tchalamss @lixzey @bitchyunknownuser @ducktapebar @aoi-targaryen @yukideadinside @elloise0 @thatoneweirdgirl17 @mel-vaz @sammy-halpert @iwishchalamet @that-one-fangirl69 @jindongdongie @briefkittenearthquake @imnotoverlyobsessive

[abbyromanoff]

Natasha x avenger!reader where Nat has always been the “man” in relationships with all the women she’s dated but reader comes in, who’s displayed more masc and wishes to be the gentlewoman that Nat had lacked and Nat feels more comfortable with it and feels she’s hit the jackpot with reader?

Jackpot

Pairings: Natasha Romanoff x reader

Word count: 1637

Warnings: fluff, small angst, talks about break ups and cheating, kissing, that’s all!

I forgot to add the avengers!reader part so I’m sorry!! I hope this is okay

No one is permitted to steal, copy, or reblog my work as their own!!

You walked towards the front door of the crappy apartment, your fist colliding with the door as you waited for a response. You held the flowers tightly, your nerves growing more the longer your date took to answer. Finally, she opened the door, letting you release a relieved sigh and move in to hug her gently.

“Hi, uh, Y/N, is it?” You chuckled, nodding and handing her the flowers. She looked surprised as if she’d never gotten a gift handed to her like this.

“And you are Natasha, if I’m correct. Otherwise, I might need to ask for those flowers back.” She smiled a genuine smile. You had only met through mutual friends and, while you convinced yourself that you were done with dating, you decided to give it one last shot. There was something about her that just drew you in, even if you had only just seen her picture.

“That’s me. But, please, call me Nat.” You both walked out after she had placed the flowers in a vase, arm in arm.

“So, I hope it’s okay but, I did drive here on my motorcycle. If you don’t want to drive on that I completely understand-” Nat paused in her step, you soon following her as you worried about what would come next.

“You drive a motorcycle?”

“Yeah, is that okay with you?” You meddled about with your fingers and raised a brow at her now smiley, joyful face.

“Are you kidding? I fucking love motorcycles! I actually drive one myself, it’s my baby.” You laughed at her words as you continued to walk, both with a slight pep in your step. You continued listening to her rambles about her pride and joy, her bike. It had been nearly ten minutes and she already had never felt so comfortable with a date, with anyone really.

“So, would you like to ride on the back or walk? It’s only a fifteen-minute walk but, well, I know how much you love your bikes.” She speed-walked over to your ride and led you to follow, it made you laugh knowing she could already guess which one was yours.

“Just hold onto me, Nat.” She gripped your sides softly and rested her head on your shoulder, the cold from the night immediately being replaced by her warmth.

When you both had gotten to the restaurant, you opened the door for her and spoke to the hostess while looking at her for any clarity you might need. She seemed content, and you hoped that meant there was another date in sight. When you both sat down, you pulled the chair out for her and she thanked you.

“So, I want to know,” She said after nearly an hour into your date. It wasn’t boring no matter how long you spoke, even in the silence, it didn’t feel like it needed to be filled.

“Yes?”

“Why is it that you came on this date with me? I mean, Tony told me how you kept saying no to everyone until he showed you a picture of me, why?” You sighed, chugging down the small amount left of your wine before giving a tight-lipped smile.

“Well, I guess you were just very attractive, and the way Tony described you just made me want to get to know you better.” She laughed, eying you with suspicion before you followed suit to her noise.

“It’s true!”

“You are so holding back! C’mon, I want to know the real reason.” You hadn’t told many people, but for some reason, you felt comfortable with her. You felt like you could tell her the truth and she wouldn’t judge you or block you afterward.

“I guess I just, I don’t know, I guess I just didn’t want to date anyone for a while at the time. I had recently gotten out of a five-year relationship and Tony knew that, of course, he did.” She cut you off with a quick, ‘I’m so sorry’. You could tell she felt bad for asking now hearing only part of your story, but you didn’t blame her one bit.

“Don’t be. We, uh, we got engaged three and a half years in and I thought she was the one, I really did. That was until I found out she was screwing around with her boss behind my back. Then we broke up and I just felt like I was nothing without her. I wasn’t able to sleep for months because I was so used to having my arms around her, and I isolated myself to the point I lost most of my friends. But Tony didn’t give up on me, he can be annoying at times but he truly is the greatest friend you’ll ever have. And that was about a year ago so he would try and set me up with people he knew, but none of them really stood out to me, and then I saw you. You looked absolutely stunning, you really did. And even tonight you look, like, astonishing, it’s crazy. But it wasn’t just the looks that drew me in, it was your smile. I could tell you were a total sweetheart with the kindest soul and, while Tony didn’t describe you all that well, I just knew I couldn’t miss this opportunity. God, you should’ve seen the look on his face when I agreed, I think he was finally starting to run out of women in his phone.” Her eyes were glossy with tears as she looked down at her drink, thanking all the Lords that she didn’t bail on you. You weren’t like the others who were just looking for sex, you truly wanted to know her for her.

“I…I’m truly at loss for words, Y/N. No one’s ever said those things to me.” You looked at her like she had just told you she murdered someone. And while she didn’t say that, she’d have to save that conversation for another time.

“Are you kidding? Jesus, what assholes. How could someone not fall in love with you the second they meet you?”

“Are you insisting that you’re in love with me already?” She remarked playfully and reached her hand across the table to grasp yours.

“Hm, I don’t know, am I?”

“Maybe that’s something we’ll have to discuss on a second date?” She asked with a small sense of hopefulness in her voice. She really did want to see you again, she felt like she was already drawn to you after one night.

“Maybe it will be.”

You two were both walking to the bike, hand in hand, grins covering both of your faces. Your cheeks had been hurting with how often she’d pull a smile from you, but you weren’t complaining and neither was she.

“You know, you said you thought my smile was beautiful, but I really think yours is so captivating.” She said once both of you had taken place on the motorcycle. You looked back at her over your shoulder and shook your head happily.

“Well, thank you, Nat, but I don’t think it’s anywhere near as precious as yours.”

“Just take the damn compliment!” The two of you drove home in peace. There wasn’t much talking, but it wasn’t exactly easy to do with the loud engine. Nat clung onto you, hoping she wouldn’t have to let go. But, as always, the time came quickly and the next thing she knew you were walking her up the stairs to her apartment. Your arm wrapped around hers as your hands were interlaced with one another.

“You didn’t have to walk me all the way up here, you know.”

“But what if I wanted to?”

“Well, then I guess I can’t really argue with that, now can I?” Her door was right in front of you now and you two stood across from one another with barely any distance between you. Your eyes couldn’t strain away from her plump lips as you imagined what it’d be like to feel them against yours. She was no better, admiring your body up and down as she stopped at your lips.

“Kiss me, baby.” You did as asked and brought your mouth forward, feeling her hands come to your chest to rest on you. She sighed happily into the kiss, it had been so long since a kiss held more than just a quick fuck.

“You think I’ll be able to see you again?” She asked with uncertainty.

“Of course, you will. Besides, it wouldn’t be long until I needed to see you again as well.” She had started to open her door until something stopped her, how could she have forgotten?

“Uh, one more thing. I’m…I’m an avenger. And, well, that comes with many risks and many hours spent dedicated to my work. If we’re going to make this work I want you to know that I won’t always be free.” She thought this might’ve been the deal breaker like it usually was with anyone else, but no, you didn’t give her a weird glace or walk away, you stayed.

“And I wouldn’t expect you to be. I’ve seen how committed Tony is to being Iron Man so, trust me, I wouldn’t expect you to stop working just for me.” And with a quick hug and a kiss on her cheek, you left. She watched out the window as you drove away, hearts nearly bubbling in her eyes.

“Well, Liho, I hope you had as fun of a night as I did with your turkey bowl.” Were cats even allowed to have turkey? She didn’t know, but what she did know was that you’d receive a text from her very soon and that Liho might have another parent in the future besides Nat, who could already tell Liho was sick of her.

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Nightlife 18

Warnings: dubcon, noncon, touching, coercion, manipulation, violence. Proceed with caution.

Note: I know what you’re thinking, why the fuck are you doing this? Well, you wanted bouncer Lee and I did too. Also, short!reader, not sorry.

Part of The Club AU

A long moan slips from between your lips. Your dewy cheek presses to the bedspread as your thigh clench, throbbing from inside as the swirling stirs your wits. You clutch the edge of the bed, gasping as Lee laps loudly behind you.

“Mmm, darlin’,” he murmurs against you, dragging two fingers along your leg. You quiver and he chuckles, the rumble rolling through you, “just relax…”

He lets the last letter drawl out as he places his mouth against your ass and nips at the tender flesh. His fingertips circle your hole and you squeeze your muscles tight. He purrs, teasing you as he prods and rubs you.

“I said… relax,” he pulls his fingers asay and you hear the wet noise if his mouth sucking, “I just wan’ make you feel good, baby.”

He touches your ring with slobbery fingers, spreading his spit around as he pokes against the resistance. You hiss and he once more pinches your cheek with his teeth. He hushes you as he dips a fingertip slowly into you.

You yipe and throw your head up at the intrusion. You slap a hand on the mattress, the bounce urging him further in. He sucks on your flesh, a welt forming with the pressure as he buries past his first knuckles. He wiggles in you, slipping back and in again. He works your hole, loosening you with short but gentle thrusts.

You tremble, the pressure mingling with the burn of his invasion. You never felt anything like that. It's painful yet delicious. It's only the shock of your own shame that keeps you tense. You've never done this before, never even thought of doing it.

“Lee….” You wisp, “you said… wait… we'll wait…”

“We gon’ wait,” he snarls against your ass, rocking his hand as he presses a second finger against your hole, “this ain't… ain't nothing. Just a bit of fun.”

“Please…” You gulp and your eyes roll back as you bite your tongue.

“That's it, kitten, you like it, huh? Gonna purr for me, ain't ya?”

His breath fans damply over your flesh as you grasp at the blankets. Your back arches and your toes curl. His other hand creeps up and tickles along your folds, slick as he fingers glide between them. He finds your clit, rubbing lightly as he adds to the flames licking at your core.

You hold your breath as the pressure boils and quakes in you. You drop your head and cry out, spasming as the tension unties. Your legs go slack and you heave into the mattress, murmuring as he coos sweetly against your skin.

He slips his fingers out, little by little, and moves to lick you again. He twirls his tongue around, still teasing your clit. He hums and raises his head, resting his chin on the cusp of your ass.

“Ya ain't so sad now, are ya?”

You shudder, unable to speak as your mind lay in pieces. As good as it feels, there's still a part of you afraid of it. The way he never really asks, but does as he pleases.

🌸

“Got a big surprise for ya,” Lee swings your arm as he clings to your hand, “ya excited?”

“A surprise?” You wonder as he walks you down the pavement to the curb.

“Can't spoil it. You just get in and see,” he winks and kisses your forehead. He stops and looks you up and down, “you look so good, my blossom flower.”

“Oh,” you glance down at your red coat and pale blue jeans, “I do?”

“You always do to me,” he grins, “but I think I know something suits ya better.”

You blink at his cryptic words. You don't quite get what he means. He opens the car door and you get in. You buckle up as he shuts it and goes around his side.

He flips on the radio, bopping his head to The Ronettes as he drives. It's a sunny day despite the cold. You watch the city pass outside the window and try to enjoy it. The shadow of your shortcoming never really leaves, it just fades into the background.

As the car pulls into a lot, you stare curiously at the bookstore in the corner of the plaza. You like books, that's a nice surprise. Lee gets out and stretches. You undo your seatbelt and follow him, keeping a hand on the car as you stare at the shop.

You set off across the lot without a second thought.

“Wow, wow,” Lee staggers after you and catches your hand, “where ya off to?”

“Oh, I was…” you turn back, “I thought we were going to look at books.”

“Maybe after,” he chuckles and he gives a dramatic look to the storefronts along the stretch of pavement, “anything else catch your eye?”

There's a hobby shop for a game you don't play and a butcher's. None of it really interests you. He tuts and squeezes your hand tighter, pulling you across the lot.

You look up as he approaches the store at the far end and plant your heels as you see the word ‘bridal’ in curly cursive. Oh!

“Lee, you don't mean…”

“Well, we gotta find you something pretty to wear, don't we?” He lets go of your hand and drapes his arms over your shoulders instead. “I'm not very superstitious. I don't mind a sneak peek.”

“I… I… maybe we should wait,” you sputter, heart beating wildly.

“Wait?” He pulls away completely, “for what?”

“Well, I don't know,” you glance at the windows. The dresses are so pretty but they all seem too much for you. “It's fast is all–”

“Well I'm darn serious about you,” he crosses his arms, “ain't you serious about me?”

“Um, y-yeah, but I just… I just flunked out and I'm still figuring things out.”

“What's there to figure out? You and me, that's all there is.”

“Right, but… but… what if I'm not ready?”

“Not ready for what? Not ready to be mine? Huh? Not ready for me to take care of ya? Sleepin’ in my bed, living under my roof… you been doin’ all that.”

“I'm sorry, I'm not… sorry, sir, it's just… I'm young. It's all new.”

“Young? You're grown. And it's new to me too. I ain't never married neither.”

“You haven't?”

“No, think I been waiting for you,” he softens, “come on, darlin’, I made an appointment and everything.”

“Uh, okay,” you gulp and face the bridal shop. He grabs your hand again and tugs you forward.

You're greeted inside by a woman in all black. She's pretty and elegant and older. You notice how her eyes skim between you and Lee, curious about your relation.

“We're gettin’ married,” he supplies, “appointment for Bodecker.”

“Oh, yes, Mr. Bodecker,” she smiles, “of course, can I take your coats?”

You let her take your red coat and he hands over his jacket. You’re led down a long hall, glimpsing other women standing before mirrors in ivory and pearl. Your stomach flipping and flopping.

You enter a room of your own, hangers lining the walls and a few hung on a rolling rack by the low podium before the mirrors.

“We chose a few pieces to your specifications,” the consultant explains, “if you wanna have a look, we can get you in one.”

“Go on,” Lee nudges you and sits on the bench.

You inch forward, letting the consultant take the lead. You keep your hands to yourself and eye the dress with the little flounce at the hem. She notices and unhooks it.

“This one first, follow me,” she waves you along with a gentle smile.

She hangs it inside a changing room and lets you know you can ask for help. You enter as she closes the door and you undress slowly. You step into the dress but can't reach the buttons.

The consultant enters as you reticent call. Her name is Grace, you read it on her name tag. She turns you to face the mirror as she helps button the back.

“Just you and your fiance?” She wonders.

“Mhmm,” you nod.

“That's alright,” she assures, “it's about the dress, right?”

You shrug as she gets the top button done. She looks at the mirror as you try to avoid your reflection.

“You look gorgeous, hon, why don't we go show him?”

You let her take you out, watching your feet as you walk the hallway back to the large room. You hear Lee suck in air as Grace takes you to the podium. You step up and she arranges the skirt around your legs.

“Wow,” is all Lee can say, “looking like the girl of my dreams, darlin'”

[a-court-of-lust-and-stardust]

Love on Ice Chapter 11: The Sly Fox

Hmm…any guesses what this chapter could be about? 😜 Also, thank you to those who are keeping up with this story. Your comments keep me motivated 🥰

33 days until Competition

“No.” 

“Come on, Elain.” 

“No.” 

“Chicken.” 

“I am not!” 

There was only fifteen minutes left for their designated ice time, and the pair had spent ten minutes bickering about a new move Azriel wanted to incorporate into their program. Elain declined without hesitation, and Azriel pulled out every trick in the book to persuade her into reconsidering. 

“It’s just a simple curve lift. It’s easy enough,” Azriel tried again, hands gripping the sides of his waist. He looked like a perplexed parent, and Elain stifled a laugh. 

“To you,” She emphasized. “I’ve never tried anything that complex. My past skating programs were…”

“Boring?” 

Elain huffed, arms folded over her chest. He wasn’t technically wrong. “I was going to say basic.” 

“Even so, I never pegged you as a safe skater, Elain.” Azriel taunted. The slight flare of her nostrils brought a smirk to his lips. “I figured you would appreciate taking risks.” 

“Not risks where–if they end poorly–could slice open your thigh,” Elain said through gritted teeth. The move was dangerous. Azriel, clearly, was a sucker for thrills and had no regard for any potential life threatening injuries.

“You’re worried about me,” He teased, poking her cheeks. Her natural blush was slowly but surely becoming his favorite color, second to the lovely shade of her eyes.

Elain rolled those pretty eyes, swatting his hand as her heart thumped. “Don’t think too deeply about it. Of course I care about your safety.”

She cared about a lot more than just his safety. She wouldn’t admit it, though. 

Comforting hands settled on her shoulders. Azriel bent down to her level, hazel eyes promising. Though he always wanted her to have fun and be silly, he knew when to be serious. She appreciated how he could read her so easily. “I need you to trust me, but more than that I need you to trust yourself. I know you can do this, Elain. I wouldn’t suggest we try it if I believed you couldn't do it. But if you feel strongly about not adding this into the routine, I won’t push you. It’s your choice.” 

Choice. 

She was growing accustomed to that word over the last few days. 

A choice when to practice, and for how long. A choice of what spins or step sequences to add to their program. A choice to spend more time together, grow their relationship. It felt empowering to have that sense of control back in her life. 

Elain exhaled through her nose, softening her features as she said. “If this ends badly, I am not visiting you in the hospital. I’ll send flowers with a note that says ‘I told you so’.”

He laughed, taking her hand to twirl her a few times before pulling her close, pressing a delicate kiss to her forehead. Azriel’s platonic affection was also new to her. He held her hand. Smiled big and bright and beautifully. And was apparently a huge fan of feeling her skin on his lips. One could interpret his actions as romantic, and—and it certainly felt like it, but it wasn’t unusual for skating partners to be adoring. A part of her heart twisted.

“We both know you’d be the first person at my bedside, Elain. No point in trying to deny it, either.”

She hummed. 

Fine. He was right, but there was no reason to tell him. 

“And what about me?” Elain asked curiously, blades digging into the ice. “Would you be the first person at my bedside if I were to get hurt?” 

“Of course I would,” He answered firmly, thumb running over her knuckles.“But we don’t need to worry about that. You’ll never be injured on my watch. I won’t allow it. I’ll take care of you no matter what.” 

Something crackled in the air around them. 

Elain coughed, hoping he wouldn’t find her rude for changing the subject before she could dwell on his promise. “So. When do you want to do this? After the twizzle?” 

Azriel shook his head. “It’ll be best after a pattern dance step. First, you’re going to balance on one skate while I grab your ankle and the back of your leg like this.” He guided her through the movement, solidifying his grip on the base of her ankle. A grip that would never, ever let her falter.

“While I’m doing that, you’re pushing up to stand on my thigh, and then you’ll swing your other leg around so the weight is distributed evenly. And to make sure you’re secure during the curve, my hands will wrap around the front of your thighs, holding you in place.” 

He continued the demonstration, positioning Elain’s body into the lift. She wobbled briefly, but Azriel did as he said. His hands came around to clutch the front of her thighs, his touch warm on her skin. The lift was held for three seconds, completed by Elain pushing off his thighs and spinning once in the air, Azriel catching her easily before lowering her skates to the ice. 

“So?” His grin sparkled, and Elain allowed herself one brief moment of adoration as she gazed at the slight chip in his tooth. “What do you say? Think we can add it to the program?” 

Elain considered, pursing her lips in thought. The element was bold and daring, and it could add even more depth to their program, something the judges would be looking for. And he believed in her, seemingly more than anyone else ever had. 

She relented with a chuckle. “You haven’t led me astray so far, so let’s do it.” 

With newfound enthusiasm, they rehearsed the lift for the remainder of the time slot. It was messy and needed work, but the pair was eager to perfect it. They were so immersed in the new element they failed to see two skaters gliding toward them. 

“You’ve used up ten minutes of our ice time.” 

Elain had almost lost her balance at the displeased voice. Azriel caught her with ease and set her down on the ice in front of him, his chest pressed against her back. 

Lucien stared at them, voice cold yet his face was the portrait of indifference. Instinctively, Elain’s hand found Azriel’s, squeezing once. Lucien clocked the movement, humming to himself. 

“What are you talking about?” Elain asked, only now noticing the stunning woman a few inches behind him. She tensed when the woman looked her up and down, and not in a way that made Elain feel comfortable. 

“I said, you’ve used up ten minutes of our ice time,” Lucien repeated, rolling his eyes. The woman snickered, linking her arm with his. “What aren’t you understanding?” 

“Watch how you speak to my partner,” Azriel said lowly, vein straining in his neck. Elain ran a thumb over his scarred knuckles. “I've got about a million reasons to make sure you leave this rink with broken legs. Don’t test me.” 

Lucien clicked his tongue, but offered no rebuttal. It was a smart move on his end. Something told Elain he knew Azriel would follow through on the threat. She’d never heard his voice darken the way it just had. Something stirred low in her stomach. 

“Temper, temper,” The woman purred, eyes flashing wildly. “I usually like that in a man, but I would advise against threatening my partner in front of me.”

Elain froze. Behind her, Azriel stiffened. His hands slid on either side of her hips, holding her in place. “I’m sorry?” 

“Elain, Azriel, meet Vassa,” Lucien introduced, a sly smile painted on his mouth as she dipped her head. “My skating partner.” 

Skating partner? 

Impossible…he dropped out of the–

Oh. 

Oh. 

“What the fuck do you mean skating partner?” Azriel questioned, eyes darting between Lucien and Vassa. His anger was palpable, skin ablaze against her own. She thanked whatever deity existed that his hands were on her waist. She was two seconds from pouncing. 

“Well, after our little incident, I simply could not let my chances of securing the gold go to waste,” Lucien explained. Elain noticed how Vassa’s lips thinned, how she regarded her with disdain. “Vassa and I will be representing the Autumn Region in the competition.” 

Every new piece of information gave Elain whiplash. 

“Incident?” She squeaked, eyes burning. Azriel’s grip tightened, his hold on her grounding and comforting all at once. “What the hell are you talking about? There was no incident. You–.” 

“I think we’ve chatted enough, don’t you?” Lucien cut her off, eyes hardening in challenge. He reached for Vassa’s hand. “Now, If you’ll excuse us, we’re going to use whatever time we have left to practice our routine.” The duo dismissed themselves toward center ice without another word. 

Blood rushed through her ears, skin warm and clammy.

She couldn't believe it.

The abandonment. 

The betrayal. 

The lies. 

No sadness or heartbreak filled her chest as it did weeks ago.

It was replaced by rage.

“Are you thinking what I’m thinking?” Azriel whispered as they skated off the ice. They took to the bench, aggressively flinging their skates into their bags. 

Elain nodded, hands gripping the edge of the bench. A new fire crackled in her heart. She turned to Azriel, whose own demeanor had taken on an air of fury. “Yeah. We’re winning this fucking thing.” 

The rage that had reared its head hours ago had finally dissipated into annoyance and an unshakeable contempt for redheaded men. Freshly showered in a pair of mauve leggings and a baggy white t-shirt, Elain had been pacing in her kitchen for the past 20 minutes, alternating between chewing her slice of strawberry shortcake and biting her thumb nail. 

She could make peace with the fact Lucien had lied to her. She could make peace with the idea that he found it so easy to betray her. And now she had to accept the idea that he may have more tricks up his sleeve. Could he go as far as potentially sabotaging the competition? Ruining what very well could be her last chance at receiving a gold medal? She would have said no if the question was posed months ago. Now, she didn't know what to believe. Maybe he had always been sly and cunning, and her willingness to see the best in people blinded her. 

And the more she thought about it, the more irate she became. He had jumped through hoops to abandon her, when she would have accepted his honesty even if it pained her. Clearly, in his mind, she wasn't even worth the truth. 

The clock on the wall read just after eleven at night. She huffed, tapping her fingernails on the counter once, twice, three times before deciding to visit the one person she knew would be awake. And on her trek over to his home, Elain had one single thought.

She hoped Azriel had wine, because she was going to need it. 

The matte black doors of his home were truly a welcoming site. Standing on the top step, Elain decided that she probably should have sent him a message and asked if he wouldn't mind a visitor. She hadn't even thought about if he had an early morning practice, or perhaps a game in the early evening that he needed to be well rested for. Even with those thoughts running through her head, she knocked on the door anyway. 

The door swung open, and Elain didn't even give herself a second to take in his appearance before she let herself in. Nor did it register for Azriel who was standing on his front doorstep until she was brushing past his body in the foyer, expertly sidestepping his hockey helmet. 

“Please tell me you have Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, or something stronger,” Elain said by way of greeting, pushing past his frame until she was stomping straight toward his kitchen. 

Dazed, Azriel blinked twice and pushed the front door shut with his index finger. “Hello to you, too, Elain.” 

He didn't have much choice but to follow her into his kitchen. One shoulder against the wall, he folded his arms and watched her navigate his kitchen with an amused smile gracing his face. He had so many questions. 

What the hell was she doing awake at 11 at night?

Why was she frantic?

Why didn’t she ask him to pick her up?

Why did she look so good with tangled wet hair and an oversized t-shirt? 

Why did his heart race and his cock twitch at the mere observation that she looked comfortable in his home? 

After scouring all of his cabinets, she spotted half a decanter of brandy and decided that would do for now. She grabbed two crystal tumblers and poured a finger width into each. Brows raised to his hairline, Azriel watched as she knocked back her glass in three gulps, scowled, and then refilled her glass, walking toward him with both. 

Before he could accept the tumbler, Elain froze abruptly, liquid sloshing in the glass and slightly over the edge, dripping onto her fingers. 

Azriel frowned, attempting to remove his glass from her hand. She only stood there with a pounding heart, eyes trained on the base of his throat. 

Elain croaked, “Why are you wearing my necklace?” 

Azriel stilled. Almost robotically, he tipped his head downward, where the gold chain with a cursive letter E was on display against his black compression shirt.

Fuck. 

He’d been so careful, keeping it hidden underneath his shirt during practices, hockey games, nights out with friends. And now here she was, the rightful owner of the jewelry, with an expression on her face he couldn't read. 

“Why did you come over, Elain?” A lame attempt to divert the subject. 

She swallowed, handing over the glass with a shaky hand. The last time she saw that necklace was seven years ago. It hadn’t been in pristine condition back then, and certainly had lost its color now. “Well, I was in the mood to rant about the unexpected visit we received today at Snowspell, but now I think I want to talk about something else.” 

Fair enough. 

He motioned toward the living area, and they settled into the couch nearest to the fireplace. Azriel tucked his foot beneath his opposite thigh, sipping his brandy as Elain settled into her own spot, throwing a blanket over her legs. She crossed them under the cashmere blanket, settling the drink in her lap. 

“You’ve held onto it all these years.” Not a question. 

He nodded sheepishly. “I had every intention of giving it back to you at first, I swear I did. And then you left the rink without it and I just…” A shrug. “I barely saw you after that. And honestly, I wasn't sure how you would react if I sought you out. Or worse, really, how your mother would.”

Elain shivered at the thought. She could already picture Mama’s scowl along with her…colorful language. 

Azriel traced his finger around the glass rim. Pink bloomed high on his cheekbones as he said, “You've been my good luck charm for a while, Elain.” 

She almost spat out the brandy. Blinking, she asked, “What do you mean?”

“After putting on the necklace, I won the next three ice dance competitions,” He admitted, watching Elain’s brows rise. “I’ve also played some of the best hockey of my life. A small piece of you has been with me for years. Without even realizing it, you’ve been part of some of the best moments in my life.”  

She looked at him then. 

Really looked at him. 

Not just the warm eyes and strong, beautiful features. 

Not just the tattoos or the sweatpants hanging very low on his hips or the happy trail peeking out from underneath his shirt. (Though, she may have stared just a tad longer than necessary, and he may have caught her doing so and shifted a bit in the couch so more of his skin was exposed.)

But she looked at him and realized there weren’t enough words in any language to describe how important he’d become in just a short amount of time. There weren’t enough words to reflect how much she admired him, and how much his unyielding desire to see her happy had started chipping away at the walls around her heart. 

And as he went to remove the necklace, she crawled across the sofa with the blanket and brandy and curled up beside him, stopping him with a gentle, “Keep it.” 

Azriel gazed down at her, their noses only a few centimeters away. He had to pause himself from leaning forward and burying his face into her hair. “Why?” 

Elain shrugged, throwing half the blanket over his legs. He splayed his arm along the back of the couch and breathed out a sigh of relief when she leaned her head against his shoulder. “Because it’s yours.” 

There was a brief moment where she was unsure if she meant the necklace or her heart. 

What she did know, however, was that something changed between them that night.

ARTWORK FOR THE CHAPTER BY @chachachai17: HERE

DIVIDER BY: @saradika-graphics

[foodsies4me]

September Malec fic rec! (yes we're ignoring this is getting posted in October)

This (last) month's theme has been suggested by @just-add-butter, for which thank you because my brain couldn't think of one. So this time we have the theme Flowers and Flower language! As always, I have tagged the authors but if you prefer I don’t, please tell me because I don’t want these to be annoying for the authors.💜

If you want to add your own recs, please feel free to do so!😊

One-shots:

bloom by @smilebackwards: This fic is just pure tooth-rotting fluff and I love it so much.

Summary:

Alec loves watching Izzy get flowers but he thinks he would have liked, just once, to know what it felt like for someone to send him something so bright and sweet, frivolous, just because they cared.

Alternate Universe by @sugarandspace: An adorable, pre-Malec, mundane meet-cute where Magnus is a florist and Alec is stressed.

Summary:

The man stopped what he was doing and looked at Alec, his eyebrows raised. “Are you aware that white lilies are usually funeral flowers? They symbolize modesty and purity, and can be used on different occasions too but that’s what they are most famous for.” “Oh, what would you recommend then?” Alec asked the man, who seemed to light up at the question.

Flowers by @facialteeth: Magnus is having a bad day aka Alec had to cancel their date because demons never sleep. Cue Alec making sure to get Magnus some flowers as an apology in between his shadowhunter-duties.

Summary:

There weren't many things that could ruin Magnus' day. The world ending. His favorite show being canceled. Perhaps, Alec texting him that morning and informing him that he couldn't accompany Magnus on their date tonight because twenty shax demons had popped up. Or, Alec finds a way to apologize, even amidst his duties and the demons that he is suppose to be battling.

Flowers for you by @sugarandspace: Breaking my own rules by rec-ing two fics by the same author, but this author just has the loveliest flower fics.

Summary:

Alec is a Shadowhunter, he probably doesn't care about flowers, Magnus thinks as he's nervously waiting for Alec with a bouquet of red carnations in his hands. Slowly, he gets to learn how wrong he was. -.-.- Or five times Magnus gave Alec flowers.

Where Flowers Bloom by Shergar: Another fluffy fic that never fails to bring a smile to my face when I read it!

Summary:

After their marriage and their move to Alicante, Magnus and Alec's lives are even busier than they had been before. When Magnus realizes that they both have an open few hours in their schedules, he steals his husband away for a midnight date.

Multi-chapter fics or series:

The Language of Flowers by @astudyinfic: Mostly fluffy with some sad bits aka Max is dead and my heart is weeping. Starring Alec as a florist and Magnus as a tattoo artist. (Complete)

Summary:

Following the loss of his brother, florist Alec Lightwood wants to do something to remember him by. Enter tattoo artist Magnus Bane who brings beauty and love into his life. What starts as a one-time thing blooms into an expression of love for all the important people in Alec's life.

out of some dreaming tree by @faejilly: It's a jilly fic, what else can I say except that it's stunning. Seriously, pretty words with pretty descriptions and flowers, what else do you want or need? (Complete)

Summary:

Demons, a hunt, a quest, a partnership that seems too good to be true. Something dangerous is lurking around the edges of their worlds, and Alec and Magnus are determined to do something about it.

Heliotrope by @wirewrappedlily: This series hurts. It's beautiful and lovely but it *hurts*, so tissue warning for those who, like me, get easily weepy. (Complete? The different parts of the series are all complete so putting this under complete)

Summary:

If his client got quite a bit more than a simple cover of the scar from the emergency C-section; if Magnus's magic softened the edges of the hole of grief she had fallen into, just enough that she could find some peace with her own body once more--well, Magnus made a note that, Shadowhunters be damned, the little flower shop down the street was worth the risk.

Invictus by Lecrit: This is technically a one-shot, but at 36k words I have decided to place it with the multi-chapter fics because long one-shot is long.

“You should get a tattoo.” Alec firmly believed in coincidences, in the serendipity that could bring the hazards of life, but even he could admit that sometimes, things seemed to happen for a reason. He was too much of a pragmatic person to truly believe in fate and destiny. So even when Jace blurted those words at him as he stumbled into his shop, they remained abstract concepts to him, no matter how it nudged at the back of his mind.

amor in lingua florum by Hamaithor: And a last fluffy-two part series to tie of this list. Nephilim have a certain affinity for plants which is a HC I adore and Magnus seems to be just as enraptured by it.

Summary:

Alec ends up spending a lot of time at Magnus’ loft, and with him come the flowers. A canonverse AU where Nephilim have a certain affinity for plants; and Magnus knows that, but that doesn't mean he was prepared for anything like this.