#i went on a cute day trip today!! went window shopping

[fagbutts]

[kenzlovesyou]

could you write something about you and Caitlins families being very close in high school and ur relationship growing from there?

ur idea is so cute! i’m so sorry it took me so long to get to it, i hope i executed it well!

Every Season - Caitlin Clark x Reader

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Yours’ and Caitlin’s family had been friends for many years. The two of you had grown up neighbors, as your moms were best friends and it was their lifelong dream of living next door to each other. You remember when you were little, always going over to Caitlin’s house or her coming over to yours. Caitlin was your best friend in the entire world. The two of you did everything together. There wasn’t one day in the past 10 years that you hadn’t seen Caitlin.

When you and Caitlin hit your junior year of high school, time seemed to start moving too fast for your liking. It was a cold winter morning and you buttoned up the last button on your coat. With that done, you grabbed your bag and walked out the front door. Caitlin was there waiting for you in her car. That was the deal. As soon as one of you could, you would get your license and drive the other around. Caitlin, being 4 months older, had begrudgingly agreed on getting hers and now she was your personal chauffeur. You got into the car and went to buckle your seatbelt, “Morning, Cait,” you said to her absentmindedly, more focused on finding the buckle. Caitlin groaned as she took the buckle from your hand and did it for you.

“Y/n! Why’d you have to run late today of all days? I’m tireddd and I wanted to get coffee!” You knew she was halfway joking about her level of disappointment, but you still had an idea on how to help her feel better. “What if,” you started, “we just went now? We can skip first if you want?” You smiled at her expectantly.

Caitlin just stared back at you with a smirk. “When did you become such a bad girl, Y/n?” You wondered yourself where that idea had come from. You were always wondering where the sudden heat was coming from.

Caitlin drove you two to the drive thru window of a chain Coffee shop, and ordered for you both. She hadn’t even asked what you wanted. You always got the same thing, and she’d had it memorized ever since you started drinking coffee. You got your drinks and Caitlin pulled around to a parking space in the lot so you could hangout and drink them.

You stared at her as you sipped your ice coffee, taking in how her brown eyes sparkled more and more as the sun rose higher in the sky. You nearly choked on the caramel tasting drink as her hand reached down to grab your free one.

“Y’know I’m really glad you suggested this, Y/n. We haven’t spent much time together lately. Honestly I’ve missed this,” Caitlin stared at you with those sparkling eyes that you were just staring at a minute ago. ‘When did she get this..hot?’ You thought to yourself. Perhaps you were just delirious from lack of sleep. That was the only logical explanation. How else could it be then that you had known Caitlin all your life and never noticed her beauty in that way before?

Spring break of that same year, your parents plan a family camping trip with the Clark’s. The car ride is long and bumpy, but you don’t complain one bit because you think that you’d endure a lot more than a bumpy road trip if it meant you could spend time with your best friend. Your family pulled up to the campsite and you hopped out of the car. Caitlin’s family was already there and had done the majority of the unpacking and setting up camp already.

Caitlin sees you and jogs over to you. “Hey you.” She wore her usual smirk on her face. “Hey yourself,” you say back as you wrap your arms around her in a hug.

Sure, you two had always been a bit touchy, having known each other for so long, but you and Caitlin had found a new comfort in each other lately. From Caitlin having her arm protectively draped over your shoulder, to laying her head on your shoulder, to you rubbing her back after a long practice, the two of you had definitely grown more comfortable expressing your affection physically.

Caitlin grabbed your duffel bag off your shoulder and slung it over her own and led you to a tent. “I thought we could share one, and Colin and Blake could share with your brother. Is that cool with you?”

You had definitely been cool with that. In fact you were more than cool with it. You weren’t sure why, but the thought of alone time with Caitlin had made you feel so special lately. Like, wow! Caitlin wanted to spend time with you. Just you.

The summer before your senior year was when you really felt a change in yours and Caitlin’s relationship dynamic. You two were much more physical, and were hanging out even more than you already had been before. You’d stay after school to watch her practices, and after she’d drive you home. She’d go in your room with you, and the two of you would study together. Since she lived just next door, she wouldn’t even bother going home most of the time and would just sleepover with you.

It was another day just like that. You stayed after school to watch Caitlin’s practice, a particularly hard one at that, and watched as Caitlin slowly got more and more upset at the shots she was missing. Each time she missed, she huffed and looked away from you. She was embarrassed to be missing this much. After practice, her overall mood was still pretty low. She grabbed her bag and your arm and pulled you directly outside and to her car, not staying and chatting with her teammates for a couple minutes like she usually did. She sighed as she got into the drivers seat and banged her head on the steering wheel.

“I don’t know what’s wrong with me.” You could tell she seemed like she wanted to cry. You looked up at her face and saw her eyes were glassy. “Cait, there’s nothing wrong with you!” You reached up to wipe her tears and you pulled her upper body to you and she stretched over the console. It wasn’t the most comfortable position, but you had hoped it would pose as some sort of comfort for the poor girl. “You are amazing and I love watching you play! Trust me, someday everyone’s gonna know who Caitlin Clark is” Caitlin chuckled and looked up at you from her head’s place on your shoulder. She admired how sweet you always were to her, you never yelled at her or made fun of her for crying like she knew her coaches or teammates could have done. You had always been her safe place, her place to run to whenever she was upset and needed comfort you. She saw comfort and you as synonymous. But lately, things seemed different. Had you been more sweet lately? Had you gotten prettier? Funnier? Caitlin wasn’t sure what it was, but now she had constantly felt a surge of emotion whenever she was around it. It was addicting to her, and she couldn’t get enough of it. It took over her mind and her thoughts so much to the point that she almost forgot how upset she was over her bad practice.

“Cait? Is everything ok?” You looked down at her.

“Everything’s perfect now. Thank you Y/n.” Caitlin smiled at you and resisted every urge not to kiss your lips that seemed to be taunting her.

Fast forward to summer, you and Caitlin had both committed to Iowa. Her for basketball and you for Caitlin. Your actual major was not Caitlin, but instead psychology. You could’ve studied it anywhere, so why not alongside your lover best friend? The two of you got a little apartment together, and you were somewhat happy.

You’d gotten what you wanted; to be with Caitlin. So why was it so painful for you to be around her now? Why did she feel so close and yet so far away all at the same time. You wondered if you could stay happy simply playing house with Caitlin, never making a move, but you knew that wasn’t the case. It was eating you alive.

Sure, she could feel the same. But what if she didn’t? What if she didn’t even like girls like that? Or worse. What if she did like girls and she just didn’t like you. That would be an even harder pill to swallow. You had always admired Caitlin’s ambitious spirit. For as long as you’d known her, she always worked hard to get what she wanted. Surely you could do the same and take of leap of faith for her.

Tears filled your eyes as the thoughts of possible rejection entered your mind. They encapsulated you so much that you didn’t even notice Caitlin walk in. She saw you on the couch curled up in a ball and was instantly confused. ‘Why hadn’t you called her and told her you were upset?’ She wondered to herself. She knows she would’ve came to see you at the drop of a hat.

“Y/n. Y/n, what’s wrong? Talk to me, it’s going to be okay. Come here, baby.” ‘Shit.’ Caitlin thought to herself. Had she really just called her best friend baby? Sure you were a little baby in her eyes, but you weren’t her baby.

��You’re my best friend, Caitlin. You’re my best friend and I’m so scared.” Caitlin immediately read you like a book. Was this you being the bravest girl in the world and breaking the invisible line of attraction that had been drawn between the two of you.

“Y/n. Shhhh. I love you. I love you so much you’ve gotta be my soulmate. I know it’s scary for us to admit it but honestly there’s nobody I would rather risk anything for.”

Your tears quickly dried and you wiped your nose. You saw Caitlin pouring her heart out to you and knew you had her in the palm of your hand. “Ohhhh. That’s great and all Cait, but I meant I was scared for my chem final coming up.”

The look on Caitlin’s face was priceless. “Fuck.” was all she could muster and stared blankly at the wall, contemplating every life decision. You started cackling uncontrollably, “Oh my god, Caitlin! I’m joking!” All she could do was scowl at you, then she got a bright idea herself. “Really? Prove it then.” You rolled your eyes at her, “Gladly,” and you pulled her in for a sweet kiss. It was soft and supple and you never wanted it to end; this kiss had to be like 18 years in the making. That first kiss, that was when you made the promise to yourself that now that you had Caitlin you wouldn’t let anything come between the two of you. She was yours, and you were hers. That was how it was meant to be, no matter the season of life you were in. You would always have Caitlin.

[fruity-mega-coconut69]

A Car?!

[Pairings]: Tara Carpenter x Fem!Reader.

[Summary]: It's Tara's 20th birthday and you might have gone a little over-board with her gift.

[Warnings]: Fluff? , shitty ending, My writing

A/N: Sorry, it's short.

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“I can’t believe I’m going to miss it!” 

You mutter to yourself as you look out the window of your father’s private jet. It’s your girlfriend's, Tara’s, birthday today and you haven’t bought anything for her, and as a matter of fact, it’s possible you are not going to arrive home before later tonight. 

But, luckily, you were wrong and you arrived back in New York at 4pm.  You were so happy, you practically ran out of the jet when it landed and immediately went to search for something to buy for Tara.

And now, you’re walking the busy streets of New York, looking for the perfect gift. You feel exhausted and tired as you haven’t slept in more than 24 hours, but your feet kept moving until you finally found just the gift for Tara. Your face lights up as you stop in your tracks in front of a car shop and you grin, doing a small dance before going in and looking around.

About half an hour later, your eyes widen and get stuck on a specific car that’s just Tara . You look at the label and see its price, ‘ $63.300’. You smile and turn to the worker that has been showing you around. He smirks and comes closer.

“Ah, a BMW Z4. It’s one of our newer cars. You said it was for a special someone, hm?” You nod and she looks at you. “Well, then, it’s perfect.”  You nod and reach into your bag for your wallet, pulling out the money needed while the worker stares at you with a wind mouth and eyes. You smile and hand it to him. He stands there for a minute before mumbling something about bringing some papers.

After signing everything needed, you walk out of the shop happily. Then wait until they bring the car out. After they did, you thank them and immediately speed towards Tara’s apartment building.  When you arrive, you get out of the car, now feeling slightly nervous.

What if she doesn’t like it?

Is she going to be mad at me for buying something for her again?

You shake your head and go inside, running up the stairs and knocking on her door when you reach it. Only, it’s not Tara’s cute face that welcomes you when the door opens and instead there is a woman with a big scowl on her face, clearly annoyed. You look down and start to fidget.

“Uh, h-hi. I-Is Tara…here?” You stutter out as you feel small under Sam’s gaze. Although you and Tara have been together for several months, you never had the time to meet her friends and sister who she always told you so much about. All this due to your parents bringing you to every business trip they go to, which is a lot. 

You look up again and see that the older Carpenter is about to say something when Tara’s sweet voice can be heard. “Y/N?!” Then loud footsteps and soon Sam is pushed aside and Tara takes her place, immediately smiling at you and not wasting any time before she hugs you tightly. You smile and inhale her scent that you had missed. Tara pulls back only to lean up and give you a sweet kiss that doesn’t go unnoticed by Sam as she gasps.

She doesn’t understand, Tara has been sad all day and Sam and the others have been desperately trying to cheer her up as it is her birthday and she should be happy. And all it takes for that to happen is for some complete stranger to show up at their door?

Tara has a love-struck smile on her face as she pulls back from the kiss and grabs your hand, dragging you inside. There, you see two other people, who you are guessing, are Mindy and Chad. You wave at them awkwardly and sit down on the couch. Sam grumples and closes the door. Tara sits beside you, close. You decide to look around the apartment and smile  as you take in the coziness of the home and a warm feeling erupts in your heart when you feel Tara lean into you.

Then, your eyes land on the kitchen table and you notice a bunch of crumpled wrapping paper and some items on the table, like a phone case, a sweater and some chocolate. You gasp and grin.

“Oh, I almost forgot!” All of them look confused as you hadn’t introduced yourself. You grin and pick up your bag, searching for the key to Tara's car. When you find it, you let out a sigh and your hand goes behind your back when you turn back to Tara. She is smiling, but is visibly confused. You blush and show your hands, the keys dangling from them.

“Happy Birthday!” You smile.

Tara’s eyes widen and she gasps, hand flying to her mouth. “You bought me a car?! But, honey! You didn’t have to! Why-?” 

She was cut off by Sam as she steps closer to you, eyeing you.  “So what? You just come here, not even introduce yourself, kiss my sister and buy her a car? Who the hell are you?”

 You look down. “UH, he-her girlfriend, ma’am.” Then you glance at Tara. “And I'm sorry if you don’t like it. I-I can take it back?” 

Sam stands still, shocked while Tara smiles wildly and shakes her head. “No, it..it’s perfect! Thank you so much! “She giggles and hugs you, planting a small kiss on your lips. You bite your lip and nod. “But also, what  have I told you about buying me expensive stuff for no reason?” 

“But! It is for your birthday! “  She laughs and rolls her eyes.

“Oh, you goofball.” Then grabs the back of your neck and kisses you deeply. You sigh into the kiss and wrap your arms around her shoulders. You break apart and she looks down at the keys.

Suddenly, Chad shouts. “Oh! Let’s see the car! I wanna see the car! “He smiles excitedly.

All of you laugh, but Sam keeps staring at you suspiciously as all five of you leave the apartment building and in front of it, is parked the BMW Z4. Tara’s -and everyone else’s- mouth is agape as she stares at the car. 

You walk up to it and lean against it, trying to look cool, but failing as you trip and almost fall over. You clear your throat and straighten up as the others chuckle. “So? Wanna take this baby for a ride?” You cringe almost immediately. “Ugh, never saying that again.” 

Tara smiles and walks up to the car. “Sure thing, Darling. Let's ride.” And she gets into the driver's seat. You laugh and get in too. Tara puts the key in and turns it, the engine roaring.  She leans forward to look at the others. “See you soon, my friends!” She waves at them and pushes her foot on the gas.

A couple of minutes later, the roof is down and the wind is blowing through you guys’s hair as the two of you laugh and talk. There is a beat of silence between you two, only the sound of the engine and the whooshing of the wind can be heard-as well as the other cars around you-.  Then, Tara turns to you. 

“I love you” 

You blush and look at her. “ I…love you, too.”  

She giggles and puts a comforting hand on your knee. “So, should we heat things up?” She asks and before you could answer, she steps on the gas and you are speeding through New York. Your heart is racing as you laugh and admire the view of  the city in the dark of the night, and of course, Tara’s beauty. 

[milkywaydrabbles]

number one with alucard 👀 he got and interest on it but is kinda embarrassed to tell his dear wife but them she's SO into it, she wants nothing more than bend him over and pegg him 🥵

A/N: If I had a nickel for every time someone asked for Alucard to be pegged, I'd have two nickels. Which isn't a lot, but weird that it happened twice.

AAHH, ty both for asking for this baby boy was so close to being fucked in S3 (fuck the twins tho) crying and leg lifted and EVERYTHING. Let's give him what he wanted! I hope you enjoy reading this MWUAH

Pegging x Alucard

Alucard had been pacing around the castle, waiting for you to get back from your shopping. He decided today was the day he’d bring it up--even though he was absolutely scared shitless. He didn’t think you’d judge him for it...well, kind of. But it was a terrifying thing to ask, the darker parts of his brain telling him that you’d think him less of a man, that you should leave him, that you couldn’t look at him the same way again. It was all stupid, and empty fears, he knew that. But he couldn’t help but fear it all the same. When he heard the door creak open steeled himself and just went for it (after he helped with the groceries!) 

“Hello, my love, how was your trip?” He placed a chaste kiss on your lips, grabbing the baskets you’ve brought along with you for the various meats and vegetables. “ Hmm, good. Happy to be back home.” Your soft voice and bright smile always made his heart nearly stop in his chest. God, how would he bring it up? He stayed quiet until everything was put away, a little too quiet really. “Honey, are you okay?” He flinched at the question, internally cursing himself for being so jumpy. “Ah, yes, well ah--” Deep breath, big boy. “I have a...request. I just...it’s a little embarrassing.” You gave him a moment, taking his hand in yours with a small smile. “Whatever it is, you can say it Adrian. You know I won’t judge you.” Here goes nothing.

“I want you to peg me.”

....did you hear that right?

You blinked at him for a moment, trying to process what he said. “You want me to...”

“Yes, well, I’ve been thinking about this for the last few weeks and--”

“Weeks?”

“--and I think I’m ready to ask you, of course you can say no it’s not that big of a deal--”

“Adrian.”

“But I think I’d like to try--”

“Adrian”

“--Actually never mind we can forget this conversation happened--”

“Adrian!”

He stopped his nonsense just for a moment to look at you, your smile turning into a less than innocent smirk on your face, and he swore you had horns growing from your head.

“Whatever my baby boy wants, he gets.” Ah, fuck

-

“B-baby please, a-ah fuck! Feels go-od” Alucard had been babbling on about how good you were making him feel from the moment he felt your lubed up fingers poking and prodding at his hole. It was a work in progress, going slow each second to make sure you both were still comfortable with what was happening. But any awkward tension quickly flew out the window when the dhampir started whimpering from your ministrations of the first finger. You couldn’t help but get wet, seeing him so pliable already and you’ve barely begun. “Adrian, you should have told me sooner you wanted this~” You cooed, adding a second finger into his ass, waiting for him to get accustomed before fucking them deeper into his hole. “Look at you, so desperate already.” Alucard grabbed at you, embarrassed at how whiney he was, shutting himself up by kissing you and hoping he could catch his bearings. You nipped at his lower lip, slipping your tongue into his mouth as you fingered him, finally adding a third finger and hearing his wanton moans like a bitch in heat. “You sound so slutty, pretty boy. You want me to fuck you?” You peppered kisses across his face, trailing down his neck and chest until finding purchase on a cute pink nipple. He nodded, arching himself closer to you. He nearly cried when you stopped your movements to look at him expectantly. “I need to hear you Adrian. Do you still want this?” 

Ah, a moment of doubt creeping into your face. You needed the reassurance. “Yes, yes, please don’t stop. I need you to fuck me.” His face flush with need, wiggling his hips to urge you to continue. That was all you needed to hear. You smiled at him, like you always do, and laved a wet stripe over his nipple once more, curling and scissoring your fingers to make sure he was properly prepped for the strap you currently had on. “Doing so well, taking my fingers sweet boy. Gonna take good care of you, I promise.” Your sweet words had him in a daze, panting underneath you and legs nearly trembling with anticipation. You leaned back onto your knees, taking the bottle of lube and lathering up, and Alucard couldn’t take his eyes off you. Seeing your body already made him hot, he loved looking at your naked. You were absolutely perfect. But seeing you like this--domineering, hovering above him with what he deemed your cock in your hands, slowly stroking it to make sure it was covered in lube for his comfort, made his head spin. He whimpered, opening his legs more ready to take you. “Aw,” you cooed “such a good boy for me” You lined yourself up with his entrance, teasing at his hole. “You want my cock?” This time you were simply teasing him, smirking. “Please, angel I need it” 

You pushed him, stretching his ass so deliciously with the cock strapped he couldn’t help but cry out. “Fuck, Adrian, I can have you like this for hours baby. You look so good, so fucking good.” You praised, goosebumps raising on his skin with every sweet word. “A-Angel, keep going please” He whined, bucking his hips in hopes for more friction. You complied, pulling out to the tip only to slam back in, biting your lower lip when you heard how whorish he sounded. You thought you could cum just from the view and sounds alone. You pushed down until your hips were flush with his, hands grabbing at his hips and angling yourself until you saw the tears streaming down his face and eyes rolling to the back of his head.

“Feels so good, feels so so good, fu-uck darling I can’t, please please please don’t stop.” Adrian let go all inhibitions, just focusing on the pleasure as you fucked deep into his hole, bumping your cock onto his prostate so nicely it made him see stars. He felt a hand caress at his face, wiping away the tears. He could make out some of the words you were saying, but his ears were ringing and he kept moaning and whimpering as you fucked him. Words like ‘good boy’, ‘so pretty’ , ‘slutty baby’. He couldn’t take it, the feeling so fucking good he begged to let him touch himself (you never told him no to begin with). 

“Go ahead, sweet boy, touch yourself while I fuck you.” 

A hand immediately wrapped around his painfully hard cock, pre-cum globs dribbling down his shaft. His movements were jerky, but he didn’t care. The pleasure of you fucking him deep and hard with his hand fisting at his cock, Alucard wasn’t going to last very long now. His words all jumbled together, simply nonsense babbling away as the knot tightened in his stomach. “Go ahead and cum for me, darling boy.” You whispered, unsure if he could even hear with how noisy he was. You burned the image into your mind, hoping he’d let you do this again if you asked nicely. You fucked into him as quickly as you could, movement so unnatural for you but you couldn’t help but want to do better for your sweet boy. He breath hitched as ropes of cum decorated his stomach and chest, cock twitching in his hand as he stuttered out how good he felt. 

Sweat dripped from his brow, smile plastered on his face with a dazed, fucked out look in his eyes. He looked at you adoringly, reaching up at you to bring you down for a kiss which you happily complied. Slowly you slipped out, not wanting to hurt him in any way, not breaking the kiss. “Thank you, thank you...” he murmured with each kiss, nuzzling at your nose. “Let’s get you cleaned up, sweet boy, then rest.” You parted to take off the strap, barely having time to remove it from your hips before he stopped you from moving any further from him. You cocked a brow, unsure of what he wanted next. 

“You didn’t think I wasn’t going to return the favor, did you?”

[girlboypersonthingy]

request for sal fisher x reader!! so idea one, coffee shop au, sal works at reader's fave coffee shop and they fall in lovee. or second ideaa reader is popular cheerleader who developes a crush on sal.

YEESSSSSSS FINALLYYYYYYY MY FIRST SALLY FACE REQUEST! I’m stoked rn 😆 I’m so in love with Sal, it’s not normal ✨ I’m obsessed with the barista x regular, daily customer trope, fuck yeah! Too cute! Enjoy~

TW: none really, just very fluffy and silly

Notes: Posted recently about how I wanted to write more fics where reader has a stutter bc I have a stutter so reader stutters in this fic 🥹 ah my heart is so full. Also, trying to write out how I stutter is very difficult…

UPDATE: part 2 is in the works!

Sal x reader- Coffee Shop AU ☕️💙

Coffee is a must. Coffee is a necessity. You just can’t function without it. So, of course that’s your first stop of the day every morning before you get started with your day. It’s worth getting up 30 minutes earlier just to sit and enjoy some caffeine and maybe a little snack while listening to music, checking emails, staring out the window, same old same old. It was a very repetitive start to your day…and you’re not sure if you like that or not. It is kind of nice to have a set routine every day and know what to expect each morning but…it’s quickly growing old. Maybe you should change up your drink order? Maybe sit in a different spot? Maybe both? We’ll see.

As you open the double doors of the coffee shop and step inside, warm air rushes up to you as does the smell of coffee, sweet syrups and savory pastries. Normally, you walk straight up to the counter, knowing exactly what you want. Depending on who takes your order, they even sometimes know your usual drink and know you by name. But today, you’re gonna change it up, remember? So let’s take a look at the drink menu, let’s look at the other food options too.

“Hey, (Y/N)! Morning! Just give me sec. I’ll be right with you.” A familiar voice calls out to you, a worker who you interact with often. He was nice, patient and polite. “Okay!” You stood up at the register now, patiently waiting as you tried to recite your new order in your head, making sure you get it all out correctly. Your phone buzzes, catching your attention for a split second. You glance down to check your notifications just as you hear that same familiar voice call out, “Sal! Sorry, dude. I’m trying to fix this faucet. Can you get that customer-“ And before the barista could continue, a deeper voice interrupted. “Yeah, I gotchu. No worries.”

As soon as this new barista was face to face with you, all thoughts of coffee went out the window. Wow. Geez. This is a lot to take in at once. His voice is…so nice. He’s got really cool hair. Is he…wearing a mask? Your eyes fell to his hands, his big hands with nails painted a deep blue color. Then you looked back to his face. His mask? His…face???

“Uh…you ready to order?” He speaks up, making you nearly gasp. “Y-yes, I’m sorry. Uh…can I get the w-….“ Just breathe. “Sorry, the w-w-“ The long pauses between your stuttering make him reach up and touch his cheek before softly mumbling, “It’s okay. It’s a prosthetic…if that’s what’s tripping you up.” He gestures to his face and now you’re blushing furiously, mostly because you’re embarrassed and a bit ashamed for staring but also holy shit, his voice is so nice.

“No, no! I’m sorry, I’m-m-“ And your confidence is slipping away every second you stand here, pathetically crumbling apart in front of this amazingly overwhelming stranger.

“Are you n-new?” You’re almost shouting now, unable to control your nerves. He nods, his blue hair shifting along with his movements. “I thought so. I mean, you’re doing great! I’ve just never seen you…before.” You notice his eyes squint, making you smile a bit. “Yeah, just started a couple days ago. I worked at a few different coffee shops before this so I kinda know the ropes. But, yeah this place is cool.” You nod along, nervously tapping your fingers on the counter. “Do you…usually work mornings?” You inquire, knowing that’s when you usually visit the shop. “Uh-huh” He nods again, leaning against the counter that separates you two. “Cool. Cool. Cool. Awesome. Then I’ll be seeing you often. I come in the m-m…early.” The way you cope with being stuck on a word, just using a synonym that is easier to say, earns a soft laugh from him, making your knees buckle under you because what a fucking cutie he is. Face or no face, doesn’t matter because everything else about him is so charming.

“So, uh…your order?” He pushes off the counter and looks at the computer screen in front of him, waiting for your response. You end up ordering your usual, excluding the food. You’re just too shaken up, too nervous, too excited to focus. Whatever. “And your name?” He finally looks back to you, and now you’re noticing his eyes. He’s got one bright blue eye and one that’s a more grayed out blue color.

“(Y/N).” You finally utter your name, watching as he writes it on your cup. “Cool. I’ll have it right up over there for you.” He points at the other end of the counter before walking off with your cup. Now, normally you’d go sit at the table in the corner near the big window but today, you just had to sit closer to where all the action took place. You were so intrigued by him, what a strange boy, not like anyone you’ve ever met before. You didn’t even know his name. Damn, you should’ve got his name…

“(Y/N)!” The same boy clouding up your mind calls out your name as he sets a cup down on the counter, staying in his spot as you shakily approach him. As you grab your cup, your eyes frantically search his shirt and apron for a name tag but there wasn’t one. “Have a good one.” As he turns, you panic and just blurt it out. “Whats your name?” And now your voice has him spinning on his heels, his hands quickly get shoved into his apron pockets. “Sal. Some people call me Sally.” And all you can do is stare again.

Sal. That’s nice~

“Thanks, Sal. I’ll see you tomorrow then, maybe?” “Yeah, same time, same place.” They eye contact lingers for just a moment and now it feels nearly impossible not to squeeze the cup in your hand and crush it completely, he’s just really getting to you right now. “Okay, cool. Have a good one.” As your voice begins to crack and betray you even further, you turn and book it out of there.

What a nice change in pace, though. Finally, something new, something different, something to look forward to. Someone to look forward to.

The next morning, you can’t wait to see him again. You want to know more about him, you need to hear his voice some more and, you must confess, you’re just dying to know more about his prosthetic and what’s underneath. Not that you’d ever rush him or pressure him into telling or showing you. But maybe you could casually mention it, test the waters…

“Morning, Sal!” You shout as you enter, heading right up to your new favorite morning person who’s already standing at the register waiting for you. “Good morning. The usual? Or are you switching it up today?” You could tell he was smiling under the prosthetic just by the way he spoke. “The usual, please.” He gets to work writing on the cup then suddenly turns away with it. “H-hey, wait! You didn’t charge me-“ “Yeah, I know. Don’t worry, it’s on me today.”

You’re a bit taken aback. “What? Why?” You ask with a small smile, watching as he shrugs. “You’re just really nice to me. I appreciate it.” And he’s off to work on your drink before the conversation can continue. You’re gonna have to literally cover your face with your hands to hide your sappy, goofy, love struck expression from him.

You sit at a table close to the bar where Sal is currently grinding up fresh espresso. Everything about him is so nice to look at- the way his arms move and flex as he works, the way he carefully tips his head to the side and wipes it against his sleeve to remove any sweat, the way he focuses as he pours your drink right to the top of the cup.

Soon after, he leans across the counter to set your drink down, his eyes watching as you saunter up quickly. “Thanks, Sal.” Is all you have the courage to say right now but Sal is starting to feel the connection too. He wants to know more about you too, wants to know why you seem so shy and flustered around him, why you’re so nice and polite to him when so many other customers treat him like a freak.

“Can I��sit with you for a bit? I’m about to go on a break.” Sal’s smiling so big under his mask at the stunned expression you’re wearing right now. “Of course! Sure!” Sal follows behind you as you walk to your usual table in the corner, slowly removing his apron. You both sit quietly for a moment.

“So, are m-most the customer not very nice to you? I mean, you said I’m nice to you but I figured I was just being as decent as most people.” Your voice has him stiffening up in his seat. “Yeah, I guess most people don’t take too kindly to blue haired, masked guys who are in charge of making their food and drinks.” “I thought it was a prosthetic?” “It is.” “Right.”

A short period of silence again. “So…what happened? If you don’t mind me asking.” He figured that question was coming soon but he didn’t think it would be this soon. Sal strangely feels comfortable with you though, like he’s known you for much longer than a day so he decides to take a chance on you, see how you respond.

“I was attacked by a dog. Well, that’s the easy version of the story.” With a nod and a consoling smile, you think it’s best to leave it at that and change the topic but Sal just keeps going. “I was uh…I actually…” But the words won’t come out, he can’t bring himself to say it. How does one casually mention they were shot in the face?

“Hey, I’m sorry I asked. Let’s just forget it.” A reassuring smile graces your lips as you watch him look down at his own lap. “I think more people have actually seen my face than heard the story of what happened to it.” “That’s okay. I won’t ask again, promise. And…I’m sorry about whatever you had to go through.”

Your sweet words of reassurance and comfort send his heart into an abnormal rhythm as his mouth suddenly goes dry. Why are you so fucking nice? He can’t handle how sweet and kind and nice and considerate and adorable you are. He’s like 99% sure you’re just really really nice but not into him romantically, and he’s 110% sure you’re waayyyy out of his league. He might as well give up now.

Most mornings, you saw Sal at work, sometimes you didn’t. The more you two interact, the more relaxed you find yourself becoming around him. But even then, you can’t help but feel like maybe you are just romanticizing these interactions. Sure, he’s nice but he’s at work, he kinda has to be. Yeah, he talks to you for a bit at the register but that’s kinda part of the job. Maybe you’re in over your head.

Regardless, you enter the store once again, smiling uncontrollably when you catch a glimpse of his blue hair as he rushes behind the counter. As the bell of the front door chimes, Sal’s head pops up as he looks over. “Morning, (Y/N). How are you?” He continues emptying the trash can in front of him as he looks back and forth between you and the task at hand. “I’m good. How are you, Sally?” A deep sigh leaves him as he lifts the crammed trash bag out of the bin. “Busy. Short staffed. Ready to go home.” All you can offer him is a pouty bottom lip and a hum of sympathy as you near the register. “Aww. I’m sorry. I’ll make it easy for you, okay? I’ll take my usual, here’s the cash for whenever you’re ready and keep the change. Take your time, too! I’m in no rush.” You slide your money across the counter towards him.

And at that, you go to your usual spot in the corner near the window, staring outside as you daydream. Not too long later, you’re startled by Sal setting your drink on the table in front of you. “Oh! Thank you. That was nice, you didn’t have to bring it all the way over here.” You look up at him and notice a change in his body language- he can be hard to read due to his deadpan prosthetic so you’ve learned to examine his body language and tone of voice as indicators of his mood. He’s not looking at you, instead looking out the window past you, he looks like he’s more closed in on himself, more unsure of himself. Weird…

“You okay, Sal-“ “I’m going on break! See ya later.” He zips off to the break room before you can get another word in. Geez, maybe he’s just having a really bad day. Maybe he just wants to be left alone. So, you decide to cut your stay short and get going. As you stand and reach out for your cup, you notice he had brought you a napkin too. Being the good person you are, you reach to grab it and take it to the trash but then you notice…Oh god…oh. my. god. No way. He wrote his NUMBER ON THE NAPKIN AND HOLY SHIT YOU MIGHT COLLAPSE DIE RIGHT HERE RIGHT NOW.

You can’t help but glance up and towards the break room where Sal had just run off to, seeing him and his other coworker both peeking around the corner to see your reaction. With cheeks as red as pomegranate and a smile so big it hurts, you exaggeratedly stuff the napkin in your pocket before giving him a wave. “See you tomorrow, Sally~”

Don’t worry, as you walk out of the shop and start giggling wildly with your heart beating a million miles an hour, Sal is sliding down the wall in the break room as he clenches his shirt in his hand, literal heart eyes for you right now.

You haven’t even seen his face but you accepted his number? Shiiitttt…he’s got it baddddd for you.

[bellaxgiornata]

She Lit a Fire [Chapter Two]

Pairing: Michael Kinsella x Fem!Reader Word Count: 5.1k

[Summary and chapter list for this series can be found here.]

Warnings/Tags: 18+; contains smut, mostly fluff but some angst, and an eventual unplanned pregnancy

a/n: Finally a much needed update for this series! Admittedly this was edited while I was massively sleep-deprived so hopefully that's not noticeable! Feedback is always appreciated!

Tag List: @dramaholic18 @shouldbestudying41 @lazyxsquirrel @schneeflocky @mariaenchanted @1988-fiend @mattmurdocksstarlight @emmy2811 @yarrystyleeza @kmc1989

Humming absently to yourself, you leant up against the kitchen counter and continued to look over the grocery list you’d typed up on your phone. Kenmare cottage was entirely devoid of everything you’d need, which meant you would need to get plenty of food and items from the market today when you went out. Though the thought of carrying bags upon bags of groceries back with you on that mile long walk sounded like torture. You had been seriously considering only purchasing a few things to hold you over for the next couple of days along with a few absolute necessities–like coffee. 

Chewing your thumbnail, you ran through your list once more, making sure everything important that you needed to pick up today was listed at the top. You’d decided on a couple of meals that you could make for the next couple of nights along with something for lunch, allowing you to avoid going to the market for another couple of days. You certainly weren't looking forward to having to make that walk repeatedly for everything you needed; you'd absolutely underestimated how frustrating that might get. Especially with the weather being what it was here in Dunnis Port.

Before making a stop to grab groceries this morning, you were planning to stop at Flanagan’s, too. It was the place Michael had suggested last night before you’d left the pub. You were hoping to find some clothing to keep you warm in the cooler weather here. If you were going to be walking everywhere, you certainly needed more clothes to layer than what you had packed. Otherwise the few weeks you’d be spending here wouldn’t be that enjoyable in the end.

And it was the lack of clothes to layer over each other and keep you warm that was the reason you were currently hungry right now. You had waited to make the trek to Dunnis Port’s downtown until the day had gotten a little warmer after the chill of last night. Thankfully it had only taken a couple of hours for the sun to actually appear behind the clouds this morning and for the temperature to reach something bearable. And it was still before noon at least, so you were planning to leave and get this grocery and shopping trip over with soon–even if you were desperate for a coffee already. 

As you were looking over your list, something moving along the beach in the distance caught your attention just out of the corner of your eye. You glanced up from your phone, looking out of the window above the kitchen sink. There was a man running along the beach wearing only a pair of black sweatpants and no shirt. Turning more fully towards the window, you squinted and leaned forward, trying to get a better look. Faintly you could just make out what looked like tattoos along one of his arms. The man had dark brown hair and what looked like dark facial hair on his face, too. Immediately your heart sped up in your chest as your eyes followed his movements, nearly dropping your phone in the kitchen sink as a thought struck you. 

Could that have been Michael from the Sheep’s Head Pub out there running on the beach? The cute bartender you'd met just last night? The one you'd thought about just a little too much before you'd finally gone to sleep?

Your eyes continued to follow the man's progress as he ran along the strip of sand, his movements looking so effortless and fluid as he did. Lowering your phone to the kitchen counter, all thoughts of groceries and coffee vanished from your mind as you watched the way the morning sun reflected on his bare skin, the ocean waves softly rolling up on the shore a perfect backdrop behind him.

What were the odds it was Michael out there? He did seem to have a nice body underneath that dark shirt and jeans you'd seen him wearing at the pub last night, so it would stand to reason that he probably worked out. But did that mean he ran often on the beach in the mornings? Right past the cottage you were staying at so you could easily see him from your windows? Not that you were intentionally trying to stare at him, of course. But whoever that was running out there was the first person you'd seen on the beach since you’d been here. You couldn't help but to notice him–especially with that body.

Forcing yourself to tear your gaze away from the window, you ran a hand across your forehead. This was weird. It was weird to ogle a stranger who was out on a run. Especially since you didn't know if it even was Michael. Even worse was that you'd clearly formed some sort of ridiculous crush on him after just one little interaction with him. For all you knew, Michael probably wasn't single anyway. He most likely had a significant other. There was no way he’d been flirting with you last night because you were so clearly just a visiting tourist. He was just being friendly and doing his job, that was all. And you were planning on avoiding the Sheep’s Head in order to forget all about this stupid crush anyway. 

"I need groceries and coffee," you muttered under your breath, pressing the heels of your palms against your eyelids. "I need warmer clothes and to stop thinking about Michael’s ass."

With a rough exhale you pushed off of the counter, making your way out of the kitchen and over towards the small entryway. Sitting down on the little wooden bench, you pulled your shoes out from underneath it and began slipping them on. You weren't looking forward to that long walk back into town again, though thankfully it was a lot warmer this morning than it had been last night. 

Rising back up to your feet after you’d tied your shoes, you turned and grabbed your sweatshirt from off the back of the bench. Pulling it on over your head, you adjusted it on yourself before checking to make sure the cottage's key was still in your pocket. Afterwards, you headed out the front door, locking it behind yourself. And then you made your way down the little paved walkway and towards the gravel road that would take you to the downtown. But as you walked, your gaze inevitably focused along the beach. 

For a moment your eyes searched the shoreline until you'd eventually spotted the man who was out running. He had turned and was circling back now, making his way right past your cottage. Your eyes focused on his bare chest once again, observing the definition visible in the sunlight even from this distance. But when the man’s head unexpectedly turned in your direction, your eyes widened in horror, afraid that you'd just been caught staring at whoever that was. 

Ducking your head quickly, you hurried your pace and made your way along the side of the gravel road towards the downtown. Heat was creeping into your cheeks, embarrassment flooding you. If that was Michael, he already knew you were the one staying here at Kenmare. 

Meaning he knew you were the one who'd been staring at him just now.

Navigating the small aisles in the market, you had your arms full. A heavy, brown paper bag from Flanagan’s shop just down the street was slung over your shoulder, filled with a thick jacket, a few warmer shirts, and sweaters that you’d bought. Occasionally it kept slipping down your shoulder because of the weight inside of it. You’d repeatedly had to readjust it with your phone in your hand while still trying to maintain your hold on the grocery basket in your other. For a few minutes now you’d been struggling in the store and you were honestly ready to just get the hell out of here, but while you were desperate to get back to Kenmare, you knew you would regret not getting everything you needed while you were already here. You didn’t want to have to make another trip into town so soon.

Though when a hand gently landed on your shoulder as you were yet again trying to readjust the bag from Flanagan’s, you nearly jumped out of your skin. Turning and shooting the person beside you a wide eyed stare, you noticed it was the older woman from the pub last night. The one who’d told you about this market. Debbie, if you were recalling her name right.

“Ya alrigh’ there?” she asked. “Didn’t mean to scare ya, dear. Ya just look like you’re havin’ a wee bit o’ a struggle with all o’ them things.”

“Oh, yeah, no,” you replied, shaking your head and shooting her a sheepish smile. “Just trying to grab a few things at once while I’m out.”

“You’re the lass stayin’ over at Kenmare, yeah?” she asked, eyeing you closely.

You nodded awkwardly, still attempting to readjust the paper bag onto your shoulder. “Yeah, that’s me,” you said with a nervous laugh. “Didn’t want to have to walk into town again so I’m just…grabbing a few things all at once. Didn’t really plan that out too well, though, I suppose.”

“Ya know if ya ever need a ride ya can always ask Mikey,” the woman said. “The gentleman at the Sheep’s Head who was servin’ ya last night. Good man, he is. Lives near Kenmare, too. ‘M’sure he’d be more than happy to help a damsel in distress.”

You could feel your cheeks flaming at her suggestion–and the knowledge that he lived near your cottage. Because that meant he was most likely the attractive man you'd seen running on the beach this morning. And it also meant he’d probably seen you checking him out.

With wide eyes you quickly shook your head, waving a dismissive, awkward hand at her as you clutched your phone. You could feel your heart racing at the thought of asking that gorgeous man for help. And of being alone in a car with him.

“Oh, that’s–that’s quite alright,” you replied quickly. “I’m fine, really. I don’t need to be troubling anyone.”

“Nonsense,” she said, easily brushing your dismissal away. “I’ll tell him meself when I see him next. ‘S’no trouble at all for him, I assure ya, dear. ‘M’sure he’d be plenty happy to help ya out.”

“Really, no–”

“So ya aren’t stayin’ at Kenmare with a husband I hear?” she asked, cutting you clean off.

Your mouth fell open as you gaped at the older woman in shock. You remember her being blunt last night, but this was quite a bit more than you’d anticipated from her.

“That cottage tends to draw newlyweds,” she continued on, ignoring the way you were openly gawking at her in shock. “Bit surprisin’ that ya are stayin’ there all alone, dear. Has me wonderin’ how such a pretty thing is still unwed. Why is it no man has come along and scooped ya up?”

Mouth opening and closing a few times, you tried to regain your composure and the ability to speak. This was certainly not the line of questioning you’d expected while innocently trying to pick up groceries today. And you still hadn’t even had a coffee yet.

“I–I just haven’t found the right one, I guess,” you stammered out. 

“Ever?” she asked, looking almost offended.

“I mean I–I was engaged once,” you found yourself admitting. “But it didn’t work out. I suppose life just got in the way after that?”

Debbie scoffed, shaking her head. You tried to readjust the bag on your shoulder that was beginning to become uncomfortable from the weight of the clothing in it. You really just wanted to finish shopping and get your things back to the cottage already.

“Damn shame,” she muttered. “His loss, I s’pose. But maybe you’ll find someone here, dear.”

“Oh, well I–” you began, pausing to clear your throat awkwardly, “–I mean that’s not what I intended when I came here. I’m not looking for…well, that .”

Debbie scoffed, waving a hand at you. Your eyebrows shot up onto your forehead in astonishment at the gall of this older woman. It was terrifying and admirable all at once.

“‘Course ya are, dear,” she said. “We’re all lookin’ for that.” 

Her eyes dropped down, the expression on her face suddenly shifting to something sullen and forlorn. The abrupt shift in her mood caught your attention, your brows quickly sinking back down and furrowing together.

“And it’s losin’ it after ya find it that’s the hardest part, dear,” she murmured, reaching a hand out to pat your arm. “That’s why ya don’t ever let it go once ya find it.”

Brows still knitted together, you continued to stare in confusion back at the woman. She’d suddenly fallen silent, her hand still grasping your forearm. She’d also gone quite still, her eyes fixed on the items on the shelf beside you. You were about to open your mouth and ask her if she was alright, but then her expression once again abruptly shifted. A smile drew itself across her lips, that faraway look retreating from her eyes as she looked back up at you. Her hand patted your arm once more before she drew it away.

“But ya don’t wanna listen to an old woman blather on, d’ya?” she muttered, shaking her head. “‘Course not. I’ll let Mikey know ya might need a ride into town on occasion. He can stop by and set somethin’ up with ya.”

Blinking rapidly after her retreating form, her parting words had yet again caught you off guard. By the time you’d comprehended them, opening your mouth to refuse her offer again and tell her not to bother Michael, that you were just fine walking to town on your own and you could call a car whenever you needed one, she had already turned a corner and disappeared. You were left standing in the middle of the aisle dumbfounded and wondering what the odds were that she’d forget entirely and not mention anything to Michael in the end.

Because that would certainly ruin your plans of trying to avoid the handsome Irishman while you were here.

Warmly bundled in the new parka you’d bought earlier today, you strolled barefoot down the beach with your hands stuffed into the pockets of your new jacket. It was cooler this evening than it had been earlier today, the temperature dropping a bit once the sun had finally set. But even with the chilly breeze rolling off of the ocean, it was still comfortable enough for your nighttime walk as the cold sand squished between your toes.

Eyes turning upwards, you gazed at the multitude of stars dotting the nighttime sky. You’d never seen so many all at once illuminating that expanse of black before, not like here in Dunnis Port where there was barely any light pollution from the small town. You had to admit, it was beautiful, especially with the way the nearly full moon hung low on the horizon, just above the water. 

The soft and repetitive wash of the waves tumbling onto the shore was a soothing background noise to your thoughts as you walked. Though truthfully you had headed out tonight on your walk in an attempt to clear your mind, but your thoughts inevitably kept returning to your mother.

She’d have loved it here. She’d have found the scenery beautiful and the people endearing–even Debbie and her blunt way of speaking. If anything, your mother would’ve found a way to befriend everyone in the town of Dunnis Port by now. She’d probably also have forced you to go back to Sheep’s Head tonight in a not-so-subtle attempt to get you to admit the obvious crush you had on a particular handsome bartender there. And then she'd have certainly made a few comments to Michael that would've left you even more nervous around him.

She’d have really loved Kenmare, too. The little cottage was cozy and secluded, and the views from the windows were breathtaking, too. One side of the house overlooked the ocean while the other side overlooked the green rolling hills. You could have easily pictured your mother curled up in a blanket in the back garden with a book and a cup of coffee first thing every morning. You remember her often talking about wanting to take a trip like this, just leaving everything back home behind and disappearing to a new place across the world.

If only she could've been here.

Sniffling, you slipped your hand out of your jacket pocket, running the back of it against your cheek and wiping away the lone tear that had fallen. You missed her, even if it had been months since she'd passed. It was still difficult accepting the fact that she was gone now, that you couldn’t call her up and tell her about your day. Send her photos of Ireland. Hear her comforting voice. 

You’d never have any of that again.

The sound of your name drifting towards you on the breeze had you stopping in your tracks, brows furrowing together as the unexpected voice broke through your thoughts. Turning, you spotted a figure making their way towards you down the beach. Behind them was another cottage nestled just before the hills, one you hadn't noticed because you’d been too wrapped up in your thoughts. Though the closer the person neared, the quicker you realized just who it was.

"I wondered if it that was ya I saw walkin' on the beach," Michael said as he appraoched.

His eyes lowered as they openly scanned over you, a smile forming on his handsome face. You hugged your arms around yourself nervously as he looked back up at you, holding your gaze with his own.

"I see ya took my advice and stopped at Flanagan’s," he observed.

"Yeah, I stopped in earlier today," you replied softly, shivering despite the warmth of your attire. "Couldn't continue to walk around freezing like I was."

"That reminds me," Michael began quickly, his expression changing as if he really had just remembered something. "I ran into Debbie Murphy earlier today. Said she mentioned ya might need a ride into town on occasion?"

Your eyes grew wide in absolute mortification. She'd actually remembered and then told him that? Groaning loudly, you buried your face in your hands in utter embarrassment. Michael chuckled lightly in amusement beside you, the sound only further increasing your discomfort.

“I’m sorry,” you told him, sliding your hands down your face and sending him a sheepish smile. “I ran into her at the market this morning. She’s the one who suggested you do that, but really, I’m fine. I don’t need to bother you for a ride. Forget she even said anything.” 

“Well hey now,” Michael said, head tilting to the side as his smile widened on his face, “I really don’t mind. Kenmare isn’ that far from my place, it’s really no trouble at all. I can give ya my number if ya ever need a ride or anythin’ while you’re stayin’ here.” He shrugged a shoulder lightly as he added, “Considerin’ ya are my neighbor right now, after all.”

Chewing the inside of your cheek nervously, you wondered if it was possible that he was actually flirting with you right now or if he really was just being friendly. But as you stood there contemplating, you saw him reaching into the pocket of his dark brown jacket before retrieving his cell phone from it. You could feel your stomach suddenly somersault–was he really going to exchange numbers with you?

“If ya give me your number, I can send ya a text,” he said. “That way ya have my number in case ya ever need somethin’.”

“Really, you don’t–”

“‘S’not a big deal, I promise,” he said. 

You cleared your throat awkwardly, nervously toeing the sand with your bare foot. Feeling your cheeks flush, you eventually recited your number to him, watching as he entered it into his phone. And then he was typing up what you presumed was the text so you’d have his number in return, though you had left your phone on the charger back at the cottage.

“I work a few nights over at the Sheep’s Head,” Michael said, pausing his typing to glance up at you. “But it seems ya should already know that, considerin’ that’s where I met ya.”

“Right, yeah,” you said, nodding.

“I usually only work there a few nights out o’ the week,” he told you, finishing his text before pocketing his phone. “But otherwise I’m generally free. Ya know, in case ya ever need anythin’. Honestly, don’t feel like you’re botherin’ me at all ‘cause ya aren’t.”

“Okay,” you replied.

A silence settled between the pair of you, the sound of the waves suddenly seeming louder because of it. It felt like the conversation had finally reached its end and you were trying to figure out how to politely conclude this interaction and walk away without further embarrassment. Meanwhile, Michael just continued to smile that charming smile at you, the one that was making an entire horde of butterflies swarm your stomach. It wasn’t helping that the moonlight was only enhancing his handsome features, somehow making him look even more attractive than he had been at the pub last night. Or maybe it was because this setting was vastly more intimate than the public space you’d met him in last night. 

Which was probably why you were suddenly so desperate to get back to your cottage.

“I’ve got to go,” you said, gesturing over your shoulder.

Michael’s smile visibly faltered a bit, clearly having not expected you to leave so abruptly. He nodded, though you didn’t miss the soft furrow between his brows as you sent him an awkward half-wave, taking a couple of steps backwards.

“D’ya mind if I walk ya back?” he offered quickly.

You paused mid-step, your heart nearly skipping in your chest at the question. That had been unexpected. You’d figured he would just say goodbye before heading back to his own place, not try to find a way to spend more time with you. 

“I–I suppose,” you stammered, taken off guard. “Though really, you don’t need to. It’s not like it’s that far of a walk.”

“Well,” he said with a shrug, making his way towards you, “maybe I just happen to enjoy your company.”

Ducking your head as he fell in step beside you, you hoped he hadn’t noticed the surprised face you’d just made and the way your mouth had dropped open. Desperate to keep the awkward silence from returning, you tried to think of a safe topic of conversation, one that would help keep the flush from your cheeks.

“So have you lived in Dunnis Port long?” you asked Michael.

Your eyes were focused on your feet as you walked, Michael’s shoulder almost brushing yours with how close he’d fallen in step beside you. Something you were trying hard not to focus too much on. Though him walking you back to the cottage was certainly not helping you stay away from him like you’d initially planned. Which was something else you were trying hard not to focus on.

“‘Bout a couple o’ years now,” Michael answered. “I lived in Dublin before movin’ here, actually. Though I much prefer the quieter life out in Dunnis Port.”

“Why’d you leave?” you asked curiously, glancing up at him beside you. “Just not one for the city life?”

Michael huffed out a laugh, shaking his head. “Nah, not quite the reason. Though I’ll admit, ‘s’a bit too much for me,” he told you. “But I was tryin’ to get away from some of the things my family was pressurin’ me into. Just…wasn’t a good environment for me. I’ll admit I have a bit of a past, but I certainly grew outta that. Which was…somethin’ they didn’t like so much.”

Brows drawing together, you watched as his expression remained fairly neutral and hard to read. You wondered what it was his family had been pressuring him into and what exactly he meant by having ‘a bit of a past.’ Though with the look on his face and his silence, you figured he wasn’t about to explain much more.

“But you like it here?” you asked him.

“Yeah, quite a bit,” he answered, turning and shooting you a small smile. “The people are friendly and the town is beautiful. I find it very relaxin’ here. Exactly the kind o’ thing I needed after Dublin.” 

His hand reached up, awkwardly rubbing across the back of his neck as his eyes dropped down towards his own bare feet. Curious as to his change in demeanor, you patiently waited for him to speak again, wondering what was on his mind now.

“And I get to see my daughter,” Michael eventually admitted, voice softer. “Anna. She goes to university ‘bout an hour from here. I see her on long weekends or for holidays. It’s nice, bein’ close to her out here.”

Biting your lip, your eyes dropped back down towards your feet. He had a daughter. Of course he did. One old enough to be in college, which must mean that he’d been married for a long time. Instantly you felt ridiculous for ever thinking he might’ve been flirting with you tonight. He was clearly just being friendly and you’d been misreading the situation.

“That must be nice,” you murmured, stuffing your hands back into your jacket pocket.

“Some things…happened in the past,” he admitted awkwardly. “Didn’t get to see her much growin’ up after my wife passed. So ‘s’nice to not be excluded from her life now.”

Teeth biting down on your lip again, you winced at his words. So you were wrong. He wasn’t married, he had been widowed . 

“I’m sorry to hear that,” you whispered. “About your wife.”

Michael loudly cleared his throat a couple of times, his eyes still downcast. The hand on his neck slid around, rubbing across his mouth next.

“‘S’not your fault,” he murmured, slipping his hand back into his jacket pocket.

Glancing just past Michael, you noticed the pair of you were already back by your cottage. You could still see the lights on in the sitting room from the shoreline. Michael was soon coming to a stop beside you, causing you to come to a stop with him. 

“I didn’t realize how close you lived,” you blurted, attention returning to Michael.

A sly grin slid onto his lips at your comment, the sight of it causing your stomach to flip nervously yet again. What was that look about?

“Oh yeah?” he asked curiously. “Would’ve figured ya had realized I lived close when ya saw me runnin’ on the beach this mornin’.”

Your mouth fell open in shock yet again, heat creeping entirely up your neck and into your cheeks. He’d actually really caught you staring at him this morning then? Now you were really going to have to avoid him.

“I–I wasn’t sure that was you,” you fumbled awkwardly. “Just–just was surprised to see someone running on the beach, you know?”

“Mmm,” Michael hummed out, nodding his head as a boyish grin drew itself wide across his face. “That why ya were starin’ for so long, is it? Tryin’ to figure out who it was? Had to get a good look, did ya?”

At the look of sheer mortification on your face, Michael laughed loudly, throwing his head back a bit. Your face was burning now as the urge to run back to your cottage and hide hit you hard, your mouth going instantly dry. How absolutely embarrassing that he’d caught you ogling him this morning.

“I’m just teasin’ ya,” he said, waving a hand as his laughter subsided. “Ya make it too easy.”

“I absolutely wasn’t staring,” you muttered awkwardly. “Just–just wasn’t expecting someone to be running on the beach is all.”

“Yeah,” Michael said, amusement in his tone, “so ya said.”

Stepping backwards towards your cottage, you shot him a nervous, awkward smile. Your stomach was twisting into knots at how much of a fool you felt like you’d just made of yourself as you once again sent him another half-wave.

“Well, thanks for walking me back,” you said quickly. “But it’s late and I’m tired. So I’m…going to go.”

Michael turned, facing you fully as his hazel eyes lingered on you. Even in the moonlight you could see a glimmer of something dancing in them as he watched you, his hands still in both of his jacket pockets.

“Have a good evenin’ then,” he called out to you. “And make sure ya save my number. Be sure to let me know if there’s anythin’ I can do to help ya, too.”

“Right, of course, thanks,” you called back.

Swiftly you turned, hurrying your way up the beach and towards the cottage. Internally you cursed yourself for allowing Michael to walk you back when you reached the front porch step, attempting to wipe off the sand on your feet along the doormat. But as you reached a hand out to open the door, you glanced back over your shoulder, unable to help yourself. You could still see Michael walking back down the path you’d both just taken together. His back was to you as he made his way back to his own home.

Opening the door and stepping inside the cottage, you shut and locked it after yourself. Pressing a chilled hand against your cheek, you could still feel the warmth from your embarrassment burning along your skin. Maybe the man was single, but you felt like you’d just made a total embarrassing ass of yourself. And accepting his offer to walk you back to your cottage and giving him your number certainly hadn’t been the way to go about keeping away from him while you were here.

But yet you somehow still found yourself slipping out of your jacket and making your way to the kitchen where you’d left your phone on the charger. You set your jacket on the back of one of the dining chairs as you passed it on your way to your phone, picking it up and feeling curious about the text he’d sent you. 

Sure enough when you looked at the screen there was a notification of a text from an unknown number. And when you opened it and read Michael’s message, your jaw dropped in surprise yet again this evening before you’d reread it.

Feel free to reach out if you ever need a ride. Like maybe to dinner sometime this week with me?

[sturnwritess]

The Dark place. M.S

warnings: satanic in a way, blood, and kidnapping.

pairing: matt sturniolo x reader

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

Today was the day to finally go on a trip to this small, creepy town. You didn't really think much of that town since it had waterfalls, a lake, mountains and a really amazing hike.

It was about a three-hour drive and by the looks of it, you called on the landline phone to call in. You had already rented a house for the short amount of time you were going to be there.

You had only brought a suitcase, a backpack, and a duffle bag. The trip felt long, you decided to bring your best friend Lexie. Since the town seemed a little eerie to you, she only agreed because she had the same thought about it being a bit creepy.

The house you rented had two bedrooms, one bathroom and an attic. You had to meet the owner of the house to get the key, Lexie had soon put her luggage in the back of your car. She got in the car and soon you left the driveway.

It's been about three hours since you left, you hit a little bump just now on the road and had to pull over. You went outside of the car to check the tire, you soon realized that it was losing air by the hour.

You went around the car to knock on Lexie's window to tell her "Everything is ok, but we have to go to that Car Auto shop by the morning lex" "oh okay, then let's wake up around 10?" she replies.

"Sounds like a plan lex" you say, as you're getting inside of your car you see headlights coming down the road. You soon get in your car and the headlights pull over behind you, you start your car but a man gets out of his truck and walks up to your car.

He knocks on your window and you roll it down, "you ladies alright?" he asked. "uh yeah, we were just heading into Daryn town." you reply, "oh, well I was just heading down there. I can show you the way?" he asks.

"uh yeah that would be great!" Lexie chimes in, "alright then pretty ladies, just follow me till we get there." he replies. "thank you so much..." you ask for his name. "oh, my names Matthew but you can call me matt." he replies.

"Well thanks again matt!" you say. "of course, pretty lady." his comment makes your face flustered, he walks back to his truck and you start your car. "Well thanks again matt!" Lexie mocks you. You hit her arm playfully and start following Matt.

You finally got into Daryn town but as you got in the town there was a sign that said 'once you come here you can never return' You and Lexie look at each other with a sign of regret, you finally got to the house and texted the owner.

He wasn't there but he texted you where the key was, it was in the mailbox. You grabbed the key and unlocked the door and made way in, as you and Lexie pick your rooms you made way to your car again to grab your luggage.

You felt a hand on your shoulder making you jump, it was matt. Turns out he lived across the dirt road from you, "let me help you pretty lady." he says. "Oh, it's okay don't worry about it." you say back "oh, it's no mind darling let me help you." he replies back.

You nod and he grabs your luggage and go's upstairs. "Thank you so much again." you say while he puts down your luggage. "it's like I said darlin, it's no mind." he chuckles, and you go to Lexie as he leaves the house.

"This town is really creepy y/n" Lexie says, "I know lex but at least the guys are cute right?" you say, "yeah for you." she replies.

We heard a knock on our front door, I ran down the stairs to open the door and I saw matt. "So, tonight every one of us is going to go dancing on the Miller farm. Would u care to join us?" He asked.

"Uh yea! Would you mind if i brought my friend Lexie? you ask, he pauses for a brief moment before saying "uh sure, I thought it was just going to be you but of course she can come darlin." he replies "when is it?" you ask "it's at 8:00 sweetheart." he says.

"Oh, ok sounds good" you say before waving him goodbye, you run up the stairs to ask Lexie and she agrees to go with you not wanting to leave you alone is this weird town.

You put on your cowgirl boot and a white long dress, Lexie puts on her brown dress with her black cowgirl boots. You both top it off with a Cattleman Gus hat, as you stepped outside matt was waiting for you.

"Weird." Lexie whispers to you, you give her a look that says 'stop'. Matt hopped out of his truck and took your hand and opened the door, Lexie shot him a glare and got inside of the truck.

The drive was only about four minutes, when he got there he got out of his truck and opened the door. He took my hand and helped me down, he didn't help Lexie though. I thought it was strange since he was such a gentleman.

We got inside of the miller farm, and it was beautiful and the stringed lights. Fowers and it smelled like just pure happiness and fun, I sat down at the table with Lexie. A guy came up to her and took her somewhere.

A few hours passed by and Lexie still hasn't come back, I just assumed that she went to his house to have fun. Matt soon came over to my table and asked me to dance, I of course said yes and he slowed dance with me for a while.

It was getting around midnight and Matt decided to take me home, I thought it was a sweet gesture. I finally arrived at the house and my car was gone.

Just gone, and Lexie was also. I started freaking out and pacing around the house, I just figured to go to sleep and she would be there in the morning.

Next morning

I woke up and tried going to Lexie's room, when I walked in everything of hers was gone. I don't know why she took my car and disappeared, you don't know why she just picked up her bags and left. You were determined to find out why, you went over to matt's house and knocked a few times.

He answered the door almost immediately, "hey sugar, what you doing here?" he asks. "oh nothing, I was just wondering did you see Lexie last night after she left?" you ask.

"uh yeah I think I saw her leave your house last night with some bags and took your car." he replies. You could swear he seemed a bit nervous, "oh uhm, thank you I just don't know how i'm going to leave." you say.

"I guess the town saying is true, once u come here you can never return." he said. You laugh nervously and thanked him before you went back. You tried going upstairs to the attic, it seemed locked but you pulled a bobby pin from your hair and tried pick locking it.

You successfully got inside of the attic and walked up into it, you saw this little curtain covering something up and you decided to move the curtain just to only see pictures of you.

Your heart skipped a beat and you felt as if you couldn't breathe, next to your photos was your birthday, your parents, siblings, friends and a pentagram next to it.

You started freaking out and covered up the board again, you stepped back to feel a somewhat crack in the floor. As you turned around you saw it was a pentagram in the middle of the room, you screamed into your hands as you saw there was blood smeared over it.

It looked like fresh blood, it stuck to the bottom of my shoe and I freaked out. I turned around to look for more clues and felt like someone was behind me, I felt a hand come around my mouth and I screamed into that person's hand. I took a glance around before I saw darkness, it was matt.

As my eyes started to open, I was struggling inside of this chair. It seemed my hands were tied to the wooden chair, as I looked around it all seemed too familiar. It was the miller farm, matt had been watching me from the stables.

"M-matt?" you ask "hey pretty girl, don't freak out." he says, "what did you do to me, what did you do to Lexie!?" you scream. "pretty girl, you saw too much information about me, and she was always trying to get between us." he responds.

"i-i barely know you!" you scream, " But I know everything about you sweetheart, and don't bother to shout the miller house is far away from town folk." he says.

"p-please just let me go." you ask, "sweetheart this town is evil, I am going to get you out of here even if I never see you again." he says.

You try to say something, but everything goes dark. He put a chloroform rag over your mouth. You wake up at a bus station with bags next to you, you guessed he put you somewhere far from him. The bus came fifteen minutes after you woke up.

You hopped on the bus and put your luggage up, you swore to yourself that you would never look back on that town. But one part of you wanted to stay for matt, but you couldn't.

As some minutes passed by, you could've swore someone was staring at you. You decided to search the bus with your eyes, you saw no one in particular. The bus pulled over on the side of the road and you got scared for no reason, but the bus driver had this cold stare on you.

He got up from his seat and someone had snaked their arm around your mouth. The last thing you heard was "once you come here you can never return"

Everything went dark.

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

a/n: so this might be the end or i can write a part two, lemme know though.

____________________________________

@mattsgirlie@madisonbeer@mattsnymphette@mattsmunchkin@mattsmunch@mattsk1tten@mattestrella@loveesiren@flowerxbunnie@strawberrysturniolo@mattitties@nicksnosering@sturnioloshacker@sturniol0s@strniohoeee@sturncrazy@sturniolosluvv@sturnioloskies@sturniolosstar@matthewsturniolowife@matthewsturniolo@christinarowie332@chrisgirlgirl@chrissturnlover@chrisslut25@chrissturnlover@chrattenthusiast@chrissolosa@chrisloyalgf@christophersturniolo@mattsturnioloarchive@mattsturn@mattsturniolosmainbitch@mattsturniolox@mattsturnioloz@stuniolobbg

love you guys nd don't flop tis shit I had writers block writing this!

#feetfindr!!!!

[heaven-s-black-box]

The Curious Case of the Fett Family- ensemble

Return to File

Recovery date: June 18th, 2022

Description: The Fett family, a large family with too many cousins to count and somehow they all look almost identical. Here's a quick look at a day of school.

Notes: N/A

Word count: 885

Back to Directory

“Did you study for the test?”

“Which one?”

“Mhmhm?!”

“Wrecker,” Echo sighed, walking up behind his cousins with Fives, “don’t try to talk with your mouth full, you’ll choke.”

Fives started choking on the granola bar he’d be shoveling into his mouth, and Echo let out an even more exhausted sigh and patted his back.

“Well if it isn’t the Domino twins,” Crosshair said.

“Hi Echo! Fives!” Omega cheered, poking around from the front of the group.

“We have a test?!” Wrecker yelled, finally finishing his sandwich. Tech nodded, while Hunter just hung his head and sighed. “Hm, hey Echo, wanna take my test for me?”

“We look nothing alike.”

“A rarity in this family,” Crosshair mumbled before unwinding his earbuds and putting them in.

“We look everything alike.”

“Echo is built like a twig and you’re built like a barn,” Fives laughed. 

“No one in our family looks close enough to you to take your test, you should have studied like the rest of us.”

“Your tests sound hard.”

Everyone nodded.

“Hey kid, you coming to the rugby game tonight? Could really use a cheerleader.”

“If I don’t have too much homework.”

“Aww, why do you have to be so responsible?”

“Is Hevy playing today?” Hunter asked Echo and Fives.

“The doctor said he can, but it’s up to your coach in the end,” Fives shrugged.

Echo muttered, “I wouldn’t.”

As they approached the crosswalk, Omega grabbed on to Tech’s sleeve as the group crossed before bouncing away with a wave.

Tipoca secondary school, Tipoca middle school, Coruscant secondary school, and republic general secondary school were the four schools that the Fett family attended. Even though most of them lived in the same area, the domino twins and self proclaimed “bad batch” lived right across from Wolfee and his brothers, they were spread out across three high schools.

After the fiasco that was middle school, they’d tried to break themselves up as much as possible. The sentiment “If I get mistaken for _____ one more time!”, was held by most of the cousins.

“Good luck on your test,” Fives waved, heading off towards his locker.

---

“So, Hunter says Omega gets out at 3:30, if we leave at 3:20 we can pick her up, grab dinner and get RG before-”

“Ah!”

“What?!” Cody jumped, looking up from his phone at Rex.

“I- uh… You know what, it’s nothing, sorry. Here’s your caf.”

Cody took it suspiciously and slowly brought it up, carefully watching Rex, waiting for him to give something away. His brother kept a stone cold face, adding milk to his own caf and taking a sip.

The second the drink touched his tongue he spit it back out.

“You put salt in my caf!”

Rex burst out laughing, nearly tipping over his mug.

“I swear it was an accident.”

“Is that what you were yelling about?”

“It’s not my fault the Dominos don’t label anything! Who even keeps their salt in a container?”

---

“Aww, it’s so cute,” Gregor cooed, staring through the window of the pet shop.

“We’re not stopping to play with the dogs Gregor, come on.”

“That one reminds me of you.”

“I’m going to leave you.”

“Oh come on, why not get another member for your pack? You can call him Wolffe jr.!”

Wolffe ignored him and started back down the sidewalk, shifting his grip on his grocery bags. Gregor stared at the dogs a little longer before realizing Wolffe was serious and jogged after him.

“What’s with all the food anyways?”

“Rex and Cody are back from school.”

“Wait, I thought they were taking a trip with some of their friends?”

“Jesse.”

---

Cody and Rex listened intently as Omega went on about her day and the research assignment she was working on for her space unit. They headed around back to the field where the Republic General secondary school was playing against Tipoca secondary school.

“This is gonna be great,” Droidbait laughed. “Common Hevy, kick their butts. Prove that we aren’t a bunch of Dominos!”

He was standing around with his brothers, hyping Hevy up.

“If we beat the Dominos again,” Tech started, “ we might need to pick another nickname.”

“Why, they’re still gonna fall over?” Wrecker laughed.

“Yes, but at this point it’s less them falling over now and more-”

“Us absolutely crushing them.”

“Come on, remember this isn’t just about us. There’s other people on both teams, if you want a one on one game we can just go to a park.”

“Where’s the fun in that?”

As the two sides bickered and hyped eachother up, Wolffe and the rest of his pack took a seat in the stands with Gregor, waving over Cody and Rex.

Twenty minutes to the game, Echo, Fives, and Droidbait joined them to watch the warm up.

When the whistle blew to start the game, Omega cheered the loudest, a great feat considering she was going against Fives. In an effort to drown her out, all in good fun of course, Droidbait and Gregor joined in while Echo covered his ears and scooted slightly away. 

Taking it as a challenge, Rex joined Omega to cheer for her brothers. Sure it was loud, and they’d probably be asked to quiet down soon, but that was just how the Fett family rolled.

[elizabethplaid]

daily notes - overview of oct 5, 2023

omfg, I'm so tired. Like, we got home before 4pm, and I've been resting these last few hours. It was cool but humid, and I was just a sweaty mess when I got home. Hopped in the shower, then laid on my bed in front of the fan, and caught up on my web comic reading.

This will be the text overview of everything we did. When I get other posts up with images, I will edit and link to those.

First, we stopped by the local bakery I had mentioned on Monday. They probably had less-than-half of their inventory left. I got the very last blueberry-almond "scone", a couple other cookies for me, and some bits for LL-K. (K couldn't make the trip today, because she's busy with work.)

Second, we visited Rooster Brother, a store for cooks and those who love them, as they say. Lots of fun kitchen items, though they were more pricey than I'd prefer. Fun things, but nothing that screamed "must buy!". I did browse some chopsticks, though I was torn between using them as hair sticks or as chopsticks. (One was more decorative, but the other was cute enough for either use.)

There was a whole display of mushroom-themed items, too. The opposite side of that display had other woodland creatures, including deer and owls. They had the very same glass xmas ornament that @vintage-tech once sent me, several years ago - a little fawn, curled up and sleeping.

Next, we visited Riverside Cafe in Ellsworth for lunch. Very tasty, but neither of us could finish everything. (I only had fries left, but LL-J had 1-4th of her sandwich and fries leftover.) The music playlist was very good, though slightly biased towards my high school years. I can only remember 5 of the songs

Jack Johnson - "Sitting, Waiting, Wishing"

Weezer - "Island in the Sun"

Counting Crows - "Long December"

Blues Traveler - "Runaround"

Counting Crows - "Round Here" (I think? It was another CC song, at least)

It was tough to hear the music, so I'm sure there were other songs playing, and I just didn't catch them.

We walked down the road, ducking in The Dream Catcher antique shop next. Lots of pretty visuals, though the aisles were crowded and some display cases didn't show prices well. (There was such cool jewelry!) Because it was a cold and humid day, and they left the doors open, we felt very uncomfortable in that stuffy place. Both of us were tired, so we decided to call it quits when we saw there were another 2 floors to the place.

I bought 3 small dolls and a snake-shaped pendant. They're all cheaply made items, with discoloring and no easy way to remove the clothes. One is an Irish (I assume) souveneir doll, who came with a stand - $12. Then I found a dandy, dapper Rococo man. A little more digging, and I found his lady. Both have sleep eyes and painted feet/legs. They didn't have tags, so the clerk said $10 for the pair. Fine by me!

The snake pendant was $1. It's shape to curl around a marble or gem stone, and even has prongs to help hold it in place. It was empty, found in a dish of tiny pewter figures glued to flattened marbles. So so soooo tiny!

When we left, we both felt awful and tired. We visited a kids' book-and-toy store very quickly, didn't buy anything, then browsed the store windows of some other shops. The two I liked both looked very elaborate and fun. We'll hit one of those first on our next trip, when I have more energy again.

From there, we went to LL Bean's outlet store. They had a big sale on women's pants, so I grabbed a couple pairs. One's like... lounge or athletic wear? The other seemed like casual drawstring pants. I can't describe the texture. Omg, the textures for most of the pants were so bad in that section. So 60% off, I only paid about $35 after taxes for 2 pairs, yay.

Hit up Dunkin's drive-thru on the way out of town. LL-J now knows the glory of the "frozen hot chocolate" - basically a chocolate milk slushy.

We stopped by LL-K's house once we got back in town, to drop off the cookies. She gave me 2 containers of chicken stock that she had made. A couple weeks ago, she had asked where she could find chicken feet, so I helped source some from Neighbor-J and -S's chickens. (They were the couple that ran a general store for a few years. S used to sew cloth diapers as a business, too.) ----------

I hopped in the shower once I got home. Very very tired. Laid in front of the fan for a couple hours, and now I've been typing for like 20 minutes. We left at 10:15am and got home before 4pm. If the weather wasn't so clammy, I think we would've done far better. BUT I still did very good, considering how cheerful and happy this day has been.

Will work on posting photos in multiple posts next. Some stuff at the antique store is worthy of shiftythrifting, but some is not. One item is even from the "we see this too often, so don't submit it anymore" list. My first time seeing one in the wild!

[moonlybxbe]

Jade Vine in frozen lake

An almost extinct greenish blue flower that blooms in the rainforests of Phillipines

Part 1

The white dress dragged along the soft trail of pink rose petals. The small jewels on her magnificent glowed an iridescent sparkle, reflecting onto her beautiful brown eyes that could only gaze at a single person. Her long black hair secured by a silky white ribbon, strands fanning her face, the snow white embroidered veil tracing her path on the petals as if an angel passed by. The guests smiled and looked at the bride in awe as she passed by them, walking towards the groom dressed in a crisp black suit. Her eyes didn't see anyone but him, the man she loved dearly, a man she could give up everything for. The man who pledged to love her her whole life, to hold her hand in the ocean of troubles and to make her the happiest woman in the whole world. 

“I do”, his voice like honey to her ears, he looked at her, gripping her hand softly yet his hold promising to never go back on his words. “I do”, she said as the crowd’s cheering immersed in the soft music, the humble priest asking them to kiss. She giggled as he bent down to her level, her face blushing a cute shade of red. Her hands still in her husband’s soft hold, their lips inches away as the girl herself let out a loud laugh “oh no I am sorry, so sorry!!”, covering her already bright red face. The crowd’s laughter echoed through the hall, as the now impatient man held her in a firm grip and laid a soft lingering kiss on her moist lips. 

She sat with the love of her life, now her husband, among the guests on the round white and pink clad silk table, “I can’t believe our young CEO got married today huh?” said one of Oya’s friends at the table. “Now you will get busier, handling one of the top companies and giving your husband some love”, another friend joked as the groom laughed and the bride blushed, “I can handle it”. She did not believe she finally got married to him, married to the guy she loved with all her heart. Looking at the diamond ring that adorned her left hand, matching the one on his hand, rang the final bell of realization, taking her on a trip to cloud nine.

It had been a year since that day, but Oya still remembered the day cloud nine looked like paradise to her, it still did. She lived with her husband in their apartment, which they had moved in not so long ago because Kai didn’t want to live in the high paying penthouse that Oya used to live in. “Bye honey, I am going out for work”, Kai said, bringing her out of her thoughts as she jumped out from the cushion facing the window and smiled saying, “see you later, I will cook delicious food for you”. Oya wasn’t a CEO anymore, her company had fallen into the ditches 4 months ago but she picked herself up being the strong woman she was. Everyone would ask her as to why she stopped her business so abruptly and she would just give a small sad smile and say “I am just burnt out”. 

She got herself busy with housework and cooking. She went out for grocery shopping and when she came back it was almost time for Kai to come back home. Entering through the door, she felt her phone buzz and saw it was a call from a close friend whom she used to work with when her business was still flourishing, “Heyy!! How are you?”, she said. “I am fine just so busy with these meetings every minute UGH!” her friend exclaimed as she let out yet another sad laugh, she herself wanted to work again but circumstances didn’t let her. They continued talking as the front door clicked open to a very tired Kai, Oya was still busy with her talk to see the man. “Why don’t you talk to the secretary of Luminus Corp. I am sure they will be interested to partner with you, they are a small company but soon to be big”, she said to her friend on call. “Ahh”, her friend said “I think you are right, it would be beneficial, why did I never think of that! Oya you are a lifesaver! If you still worked we could get together so often”.

That was when Oya saw her husband and said “Okay but I have to leave now, Kai’s home, byee” with which she cut her call. “Who were you talking to?” he asked plopping down on the couch “Linda, she just called to check in”, she answered, heading into the kitchen to get the tired man a glass of water “What was that about? The Luminus Corp.?” he asked, taking the glass of water from her “Yeah she was having some trouble with her new project so I thought of helping her”, she sighed feeling the burst of anger about to burst. She knew he didn't like her talking all business-ey. “HOW MANY TIMES HAVE I TOLD YOU NOT TO TALK BUSINESS WITH YOUR FRIENDS?!” she flinched and his eyes widened as he cleared his throat and said “You know I don’t like that Oya” “Yeah but how could I not help a friend? Why are you so angry?!” she said getting agitated with his behavior. “But I like this Oya more, not the CEO Oya”, he said, coming closer to her, holding her waist as she felt anger boil within her. “I AM SORRY OKAY!” she yelled, releasing herself and storming into the bedroom, slamming the door shut. “DON’T YELL AT ME OYA!!”Kai yelled at the closed door getting no response in return.

[ibelieveinghost]

5/10/24

back to Tokyo!

had a real nice trip w/ my parents this past week. not a lot happened beside driving along the ocean, watching sunset at car window, and both of them getting pretty sick at one point but insisted to go on lol

i love them so much❤ they're the coolest

hmmmm not really in the mood for writing but i''m gonna try... called in sick this morning, feeling kinda on the verge of getting a cold, but couldn't stay in bed either. got up early-ish(before 6...), made coffee, and spent a full hour online-shopping for inks. found some real pretty ones! for the new pens I just got! should i stop collecting them? no way!

mighta draw a bath later this morning, maybe after finishing this entry and having a proper dance workout. and then i'll cook! and after that, i'll just let the day take me wherever i need to be.

oh! and i had a new roommate now. french gal with a pretty name. cute+a little bubbly w/ a ton of hobbies&majored in theater. i feel like we gonna like each other a lot. grabbing a drink together sometime soon is definitely on the list. me and her and Naomi happened to run into each other and had tea yesterday afternoon. they seemed pretty excited about my upcoming art show, and said they'd go...!!! and that made me happpyyy!!

May turned out to be much busier than i thought. but at the same time, nothing feels overwhelming. i have this peculiar feeling, that something i thought had been long lost is coming back to me. it's a visceral one. it makes me feel solid, centered, and almost strangely calm. and that's pretty freaking amazing.

i heard back from Mo the other day too. another one of his long ass messages(which i adore) that are def not fit for the SMS format

having an irl friend who moved to another country and become a pen pal is a lovely thing. seeing that he seems to do pretty well in Berlin warms my heart. i hope he'd come back to Tokyo, even just for a short trip, and we can explore the city together a bit more.

what else what else... not much! lots of shifts and changes, to sum it up, and nothing worthy mourning for. lost contacts, relationship slowly drifting apart, things you gave up mending for whatever reason. whatever reason it is, it is a good one. just...moving along, heading forward, walking quietly and hopefully into a new dawn new day. adding things to my list. crossing things off my list. forever cherishing having the will and capacity to act and not act, to pounder, to feel, to give and receive, and to make whatever choices that scream:"YES this is me!! " back at me.

i can go on and on! but i'll stop, just to have time for the dancing part of the day.

throwing in a some photos before i forget:

(the latest addition to my wind chime collection!!!)

(went to the movie yesterday+ the sky at dusk is kinda magical)

(from the roadtrip. we legit thought it was some sort of weird military thingy but turned out it's just an airplane-sized ballon for climate research)

(more pretty sky photos yo. i have 200 of those on my phone tho lol)

(had to share this view from my parent's apartment... it was late and the night smelled of rain. the village can be heard from a distance. another one of those magical moments that words don't capture)

so much for today!

[umichenginabroad]

Stockholm Week 8: Quality Family Time

This week was full of rest and exploration. My family came to Stockholm last week and they left on Saturday. For the rest of their stay, we visited many more places that I know and don’t know. 

** Some of the top restaurants of this week that I recommend are Noburu (Östermalm) and IPEN (Hornstull)

3/4 Mon: Paradox Museum 

I took my family to Katarina Lift, which allowed us to see the whole city view of Stockholm.

View from the top

We took a little adventure afterward by not taking the same way back but going over the bridge. It turned out to be the same place where I went on the Crime Fiction field trip last Wednesday! I had no idea that these two locations were in such proximity. Monteliusvägen was actually one of the places I was going to take my family, so we toured around the area since we were there already. 

Katarina Church! We did not go inside because there was a funeral

The main attraction today was the Paradox Museum. It was near the T-Centralen area. It’s a secret between us but we got lost on the way there… The logo was on top of the subway sign, on the second floor, so we naturally thought that we had to go up; we wandered around in the random buildings and elevators for a little too long. At last, we found out that the museum was located in the subway station. 

We FINALLY entered the museum and enjoyed the paradox surrounding us. 

Try to see if you can spot the paradox in the following pictures: 

Paradox museum is my favorite museum! 

3/5 Tue: National Museum 

Tuesday's museum was the national museum which has thousands of artworks. We weren’t planning on staying there for more than two hours but ended up leaving after three hours of thorough examination. 

While touring the museum, I finally found what type of art I like. I especially like the paintings with a focus on nature, especially flowers and rivers. 

Still life paintings are my new favorites

I swear I have something with water lilies; I was mesmerized by this painting the moment I saw it. When I read the description afterward, it mentioned Monet’s water lily series, which was my favorite painting back in the National Gallery in London. 

I wonder where this painting takes place

When we took a rest at the cafe on the main floor, I lost the sticker (the form of the ticket). I had stuck it on the back of my hand at first but later moved it to my clothes. This was not a good decision as it was gone before I knew it. Throughout fika time, I looked around everywhere but failed to spot it. Thankfully, I found it in the corner when I was about to leave the cafe. 

Before leaving the museum, we strolled around the sculpture garden. It was beautiful!

The lighting on the sculptures was perfect 

For dinner, we visited Noburu sushi in Östermalm. Everything was affordable and of excellent quality!!! It’s very close to DIS, so I will definitely visit again soon :) 

Plus, the miso soup is in the self-serve bar!

3/6 Wed: Royal Palace

Guess what? We went to Gamla Stan again (hehe). But! We went to visit the Royal Palace, not to go on endless walks as usual. 

We unfortunately missed the change of guards by a matter of minutes. To remedy(?) the disappointment, we entered the Royal Palace. We looked around the Royal Apartments, the Treasury, and the Tre Kronor Museum with the general ticket. 

These are some of my favorite pictures from the palace: 

The sunlight shining through the windows onto the sculptures captured my eyes

It was such a sunny day with breezes here and there, so we couldn’t resist going around the streets in Gamla Stan as well. As I predicted, my mom LOVED everything about Gamla Stan (the colors, architecture, shops, etc.).

little moments of happiness ˙ᵕ˙

After shopping at the souvenir shops, I took them to Mariatorgets to let my family experience Stockholm-vibe treasure hunting in second-hand stores. My mom found some gems in Stockholm Stadsmission and I found a cute teddy bear skirt in Myrorna. 

My family tried their first MAX for dinner and loved it! 

3/7 Thu: Public Library + City Hall

I trusted my dad too much. He led us to the National Library, but the actual library we wanted to go to was the Stockholm Public Library. 

I instantly realized why it was so famous—the interior was beautiful 

The sun was out again! Thus we leisurely walked along the water by the city hall. 

My brother and I at the City Hall. We made people laugh hehe

I could NOT open my eyes because of the sun

I had been craving gelato for a month (I have all the top gelato places in Stockholm saved in Google Maps) and headed to one nearby. Despite the thirty-minute journey, I failed to find the place. I think that they only open during the summer. I refused to give up and led my family to another gelato place near our apartment, but it was also temporarily closed (this was what I got for trusting Google Maps)... I took it as God’s words and refrained from further events based on luck (i.e. TooGoodToGo). We bought some bread at ICA and returned to our Airbnb. 

We only walked around 10,000 steps that day but we were exhausted for some reason. This unfortunately? resulted in a 3-hour nap that made us decide to stay in Airbnb for the rest of the day. 

3/8 Fri: T-Centralen

My family’s last shopping opportunity in Stockholm took place in T-Centralen. We went to an Italian restaurant, Carl’s Deli, which was located in a food court. I couldn’t resist the 4.8-star rating and it was indeed worth the wait. 

My mom loved COS and ARKIVET, which are two clothing stores with very different atmospheres. It was my first time in Arkivet and I think it had the best quality out of all the second-hand clothes I’ve been to. 

After dinner, it was time for me to say goodbye to my family once again. 

It was such a relaxing and memorable family vacation! 

3/9 Sat: Lectures 

I spent the entire day catching up on my online Reactions class. I watched 8+ lectures and worked on the homework for the upcoming week. This resulted in a record number of 214 steps the entire day (compared to the average of 11,000 steps over the last 7 days). My sole route of the day was from my bed to my desk. 

3/10 Sun: Essays

I thought the midterm season was over, but I guess not. I have 2 essay midterms this upcoming week, one 4-page essay in the Crime Fiction course and three 2.5-page essays in the TV Film course. Therefore, all my time today was devoted to reviewing outlines and adding final touches to the essays. 

When I got sick of writing essays, I cleaned our bathroom, went grocery shopping, and cooked dinner on top of meal prep for tomorrow. Cleaning the entire bathroom was another level of refreshment

This kimchi fried cabbage+rice was the BEST meal I cooked during my chef career in Stockholm!!!

This concludes my first travel week in Stockholm. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did! 

Thank you for reading this week’s post :) 

Vi ses, 

Jiwoo Kim 

Chemical Engineering

DIS Study Abroad in Stockholm, Sweden

[chloemarievaughan]

May 25th- Antwerp to Amsterdam

Can’t believe we are headed to the last destination of our trip! We had a truly wonderful time in three very different Belgian Cities. ate our fair share of Belgian chocolate and fries, and drank our fair share of Belgian beer! The Netherlands are a new country for me, the 22nd country I have visited! Belgium and the Netherlands are both new countries for Mom.

Before we headed off to the Netherlands, we had to get one last walk through Antwerp in the diamond district, doing a bit of window shopping. It was amazing how many diamond stores there are; how do they make any money with so much competion? Block after block of nothing but diamond stores. 

Our train to Amsterdam was again one that we could take any train on the day we booked it which was nice flexibility. We weren’t sure how long we felt like exploring the diamond district so rented a locker at the train station so we could walk unencumbered by our bags. After a short walk we were ready to go so bought espressos and a yummy raspberry coffee cake. our train ride was the slow train (1 h 50 minutes) as it was 20 euros vs the more expense fast trains saving 45 minutes but costing 4 times as much. The fast trains had WiFi though which would have been nice. 

did some planning for Amsterdam… again we are buying a city card to take advantage of the flexibility of transportation. Annoyingly, nearly all the museums in Amsterdam require advanced reservations. I did get a couple things booked ahead that needed reservation… but we are gonna miss out on the Van Gogh museum because it’s fully booked. I’m sure we will be able to keep ourselves fully occupied even without that, but Reservations weeks ahead are not how I like to travel, like to be able to go with the flow!

We also saw our first windmills out the window of the train! Yay the Netherlands :)

Got to the Amsterdam train station and got slightly lost trying to figure out how to leave the train station. Turns out, in Amsterdam you scan your ticket to enter the train and to leave the train (this is also how the tram works) we both really had to pee but the bathroom on the train wouldn’t open and the one in the station had to pay cash… which we don’t have. We powerwalked to our hotel which luckily was only about a 12 minute walk away. The check in guy at the hotel let us check in early which was nice, and our room is very cute. We had a reservation for the Rijksmuseum at 3:15, and were all checked into the hotel about 1:30. 

So we decided to take a leisurely walk past the canals to get to the museum! I love Amsterdam :) it’s beautiful. Much cleaner than Antwerp, a much bigger city than we’ve been to so far, and it’s the perfect wandering city where every block is another picturesque canal and beautiful rows of house and of course, bikes everywhere. We have both almost been hit by multiples bikes because neither mom and I are good at noticing if we are about to walk into a bike lane… no casualties so far 😂 

we wandered into a floating flower market and did some souvenir shopping, then wandered past a place selling pita and French fries (which were at least twice as good as any of the Belgian fries we had… sorry Belgium I am Not gonna be calling them Belgian Fries 😂) we were ravenous at this point and this might have been the best tasting meal we had all trip hahaha.

Made it to the Rijksmuseum, which we had snagged the only available reservation time left for today earlier this morning. It was a very nice art museum with some Rembrandt and Van Goghs, a cool variety of historical Dutch artists, paintings, and decorations, but Mom and I would have done a little better with an audio tour or a live tour. Note for if you come here: there are some guided tours available on the museum app, but we didn’t know at the time.

 We were tired of walking around at this point so sat in the garden behind the Rijksmuseum watching a fountain for a while and then went to grab a tram back to Central Station.  Every time we try to take a bus or a tram anywhere we can see the tram we need pulling into the station when we are too far to make a run and catch it. Luckily this time the next one was only 6 minutes later so we waited and took the tram back to central station, and went to reserve a boat ticket for a canal tour. They didn’t have any tours for an hour and a half so we did some more walking: really got our steps in today! 

We did some wandering past some of Amsterdams more interesting areas. (Walked past many coffee shops, a quick look to check out the Red Light District (much tamer during the day) and then ended up at another church, the oldest church in Amsterdam which is no longer operating as a church, just a museum. The Oudekerk had a guided audio tour that we did for about 25 minutes before the museum closed, got a few good pictures and enjoyed the brief tour.

then it was time for our canal tour! I was very excited for this after no canals in Antwerp to have a tour of, but it wasn’t my favorite boat tour. Instead of a guide, it was a recorded audio tour of facts about the canals, and the boat was a covered glass boat which made it a little hard to see and take good photographs. the boat before ours was open, which would have been better for pictures and taking in the sights but turns out we would have been absolutely freezing so I guess it worked out! 

wandered around some more back to the hotel, and tried to find a cool place for a nightcap but nothing near us but coffee shops ☕️ ended up in the hotel bar where I disgraced myself by ordering the beer Ijwit in the most American possible accent: it is actually pronounced “eye wheat”. My Dutch has not gotten any better this trip 😂

[sakuraryomen01]

Lost Lamb /OG Sukuna x Reader/ .o4

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✧ Warning: Og Sukuna Ryomen, servant reader, Master x Servant, protector/predator x reader kind of relationship, some suggestive touching but it's an accident, Uraume being a mini detective, flustered Sukuna, seeing King of Curses straight from the baths (for drama obviously ~3~), you have a small nightmare during a nap, plans for a festival!!

✧ Reader: Female Reader

✧ Plot: A Master x Servant Fanfiction in which Sukuna, the king of curses, finds you snooping in his temple and he makes you pay for your crimes for the rest of your life..

✧ Words: 4.654k

fic masterlist :: .o1 .o2 .o3 .o4 .o5 .o6 .o7 .o8 .o9 .10 .11 .12

·A/n: I'm actually really flattered that you guys love this (>////<) Btw I thought it'd be nice to have a Sukuna pov once or twice [maybe Uraume too!! ^^]

~~

♡ Thank you for reading this bit! Enjoy! ♡

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The birds were chirping, the sun was out and warming the sunshine dew on the fresh blades of grass. The sky was a perfectly clear blue and the clouds were fluffy and clear white.

It was the perfect morning; everything felt right, calm, and peaceful.

So, you decided to go and wake Sukuna up and ask for a morning walk with him; hoping in your heart he'd say yes and not choke you to death. You had quickly gotten dressed in a light kimono that was dyed a pale violet color.

There was a dark purple bow tying around your waist with blue flower patterns covering the arms and trimming. Personally, you thought the kimono was cute and wanted to buy it the last time you went to the village with Sukuna.

You had gone twice more since your first trip, and you had soon gotten used to these random shopping errands with him.

So, making your way to the bedroom, you bumped into Uraume who had decided to wear something besides their normal monk outfit.

It was a softer, pink kimono that had little white sakura flowers decorating the ends and middle. Her wasit was covered by a velvet and white bow that tied at the back and her top was white. It showed more of their figure off but it's not like you were about to complain.

"U-Uraume, you look.." You couldn't help the heat that creeped into your cheeks. "You look amazing today, Uraume."

"Oh, thank you," They smiled, hiding their face from your view.

Are they blushing?

"S-So, are you going to wake up Lord Sukuna?" They asked, fanning themselves and turning back to you. "He should be up around now, but I think he decided it'd be best to sleep in for a little."

"Yes, I was actually." You responded, nodding to confirm and bowed. "I'll make sure to wake him up. I'll come help with breakfast too once I've gotten him into the baths."

Uraume gave a quick nod, smiling and starting to head off towards the back of the shrine where a secret place they visited often was kept. You didn't want to ask what was back there, so you kept the curiosity to yourself and left the mystery be.

When you finally made it over to Sukuna's room, you noticed his doors were propped open. Which was a little odd, considering the fact he doesn't like random stop ins by his servants during the day, but you pushed the large barrier open regardless and poked your head inside.

Your eyes were hit with a beam of light that shot through the towering windows on either side of Sukuna's bed. The blinds were pulled back just the slightest and let the fresh morning air circulate into the stuffy dark room. Refreshing the cabinets bright paint full of large clothing, belongings and other assorted items that belonged to the King of Curses.

Quietly, you crept into the room and took in the surroundings, stepping on the soft fur of the hunted and bought bear skins that rested on the floors.

They were a little worn for wear, but you still found the gentle tuffs nice against your feet.

Oddly enough, once you finally got yourself closer to Sukuna's resting body, you found one of the astrology books you were reading a night ago resting on Sukuna's nightstand. But, you didn't take much interest in the matter as you had more important things to worry about.

"Master? Master, it's time to get up." Your voice was quiet, though to you, it sounded like you were yelling. "Lord Sukuna?"

His calm snores evidence he didn't even crack an eye open made you pout, climbing up into the bed beside him and glaring down at him. Sukuna's sleeping face was rather calm, but that wasn't what made you blush, it was his large hands resting next to his face.

They were large compared to your own, calloused and rather rough, but they twitched randomly in his sleep. No wonder he was able to concur so many towns and villages.

He looks so cute when he's asleep..

Shaking your head, you pushed against his shoulder until he rested on his back and climbed into his lap. Gently pressing against his chest, you tried your best to shake him awake.

"Master, you have to wake up for the Moon Festival this evening!"

Sukuna's brow furrowed, signaling his annoyance, but he had to wake up. Otherwise, he'd be too tired to take you and Uraume to the festival at the village later on.

"Child, I swear-" Sukuna started, opening his red eyes and stopping his complaint short.

Why were you sitting in his lap? He just woke up, why was he being flustered so early?

"Wh-What are you.." He started, eyes going wider by the second as he took in the scene. "Why are you in my lap?"

"You wouldn't wake up, Master." You said, confusion written on your face. "Why, is this a problem?"

Of course it is!! Sukuna shook his head, too flustered to speak and sat up. You sat back in his lap and smiled, clapping your hands together and giggling.

"Lord Sukuna is now up! We can now head to the baths to clean you and prepare you for the festival."

"Cleaned?" Sukuna asked, obviously surprised by your sudden confidence around him.

You were being a little too confident if he bothered to care, but he could give less than a care in the world about it. Resting his weight on his elbows, his eyes traced your adorable figure and landed on your middles. Something in his gut stirred, something that shouldn't be there, and made Sukuna shoo you off.

He knew that this festival he was treating you to was like a dream come true. Being about a color-shifting moon that only happened every so often.

"I'll see you in the baths, Master." You said, bowing and heading off towards the showers. "Be sure to bring a clean yukata to change into!"

Sukuna sat up the moment you were out of the room, heart pumping blood through his body at an unusual pace and making his cheeks hot with embarrassment. Even deep within his core, he felt bothered, it wasn't right for you to be making these feelings stir within him.

"Lord Sukuna, Y/n is waiting for you."

Looking up, Sukuna saw Uraume dressed in their kimono and sighed. "Right, I know.."

"Do you need help gathering some clothes?" They asked, stepping inside the bedroom and smirking at the slight tease.

"Do I look like an old man? I can handle getting dressed."

Uraume chuckled to themselves, looking around the room before their eyes landed on the book. They picked it up and flipped through the pages, seeing a bookmark towards the end before turning to Sukuna and angling the book.

"Are you reading this?" They asked, reading the page it was marked on until they place it back down and turned to their master.

"Yeah, but I just wanted to read it out of boredom, nothing more."

Uraume gave a firm nod, sarcastically waving and heading back out towards the kitchen to prepare breakfast. They decided to make some mochi so that breakfast wouldn't take as long, but it'd be a nice start to such a wonderful morning at the village.

"Calm yourself down," Sukuna muttered, his face in his hands as he stood from his bed. "It's just one day, then you can go back to sleep."

Was he even going to make it the whole day?

"Master, your bath is ready!" Your voice rang down the hall with a cheer.

Sukuna jumped at this, blinking a few times before standing and heading towards his closet. He quickly grabbed a yukata that didn't smell like blood, grabbed a pair of shoes, and tried his best to elegantly run off towards the showers.

Didn't want to keep you waiting.

"You can get undressed and into the bath," You started, bowing deeply and motioning towards the brand new curtains.

"I'll begin washing you off if you wish, Master."

Sukuna gave a snort, rolling his eyes proudly and giving your bowed figure a glare. "I can wash myself, I'd prefer to make you useful and prepare food for me. Like a good servant would."

You gave a nod once you stood up again, drawing back the curtain for Sukuna to step forward and begin undressing behind. Once he was in the tub, you handed him the rag with suds and bowed again.

"Call me or Urame if you need anything." You smiled, closing the curtain and heading towards the exit.

Once you were out of sight, Sukuna gave a deep sigh and leaned back against the head of the tub. Hearing your little feet patter down the hall, he closed his eyes and took a breath, lifting his head again to begin cleaning himself off just as you were making your way inside the kitchen.

"Is he bathing?" Uraume asked, looking back at you for a moment while preparing the mochi.

"Yes, he is." You confirmed, running up next to your friend and grabbing some of the mochi. "Mochi?"

"It's a favorite morning snack for him."

You felt your cheeks flush, smiling and lifting up one of the small treats. "Really?"

Sukuna likes mochi... that's different.

Uraume gave a nod, moving their attention away from finishing the snacks to plating them. Catching sight of their bandages, you stopped their movements and undid the, a smile on your face when you only saw a small mark.

"All healed?" Running your fingers over the skin, you looked up at your fellow servant and giggled.

"Mhm, I must've forgotten to check after so long; thank you."

Nodding, you rushed to Uraume's other side and started placing the small marshmellow-like treats into the bowel. Once they were all in the mahogany plate, Uraume grabbed a small bag from the kitchen cupboard and joined you.

"What's that for?" You asked, a confused look written on your face as they opened the white pouch.

"This, my dear, is sugar," Uraume said, a matter-of-faculty tone in their voice as they took a pinch of the powder and sprinkled it onto the small buns.

"It's sweet and helps make things like cakes and cupcakes tasty and sweet like it too. But those things can only be made with recipes."

"Can you teach me some?"

"Oh, uh, sure. If you want to."

You smile beamed from ear to ear, a cheery squeal leaving you as you take the plate and head to the baths per Uraume's instructions. With a skip in your step, you assumed that nothing could go wrong.

The day was so perfect already that you doubted that the day could get any worse.

"I have a snack for-" Your smile evaporated, a fresh wave of heat adorning your cheeks as you took in the sight. "..y-you, Master."

Sukuna was just stepping from the tub, water trickling down his chest and a white shine flooding from the drawn back curtain. The black stripes on his chest shining against the water drops as they fell down to his abs and to the ground. Red eyes piercing into your being as you stood flushed and confused.

"You.." Sukuna started, brows twitching. "What are you doing?"

"U-Uraume said to bring you these.." Lifting up the bowel, you tore your eyes away from him. "As a bath snack, o-or breakfast."

You've never felt such a large amount of emotion coming from him before, even when you first met, this didn't compare. It was like seeing him in such a lewd state ticked him off on a whole new level that you should never have taken a step on.

The annoyance, the anger, it was all new; new in a way you didn't want to feel.

Though, the emotion that was blooming in Sukuna wasn't anger or annoyance. But something that he thought had died long ago when he was human. An emotion that made his stomach churn and bubble with a pleasurable heat in his core that made his cheeks burn with embarrassment.

But he wasn't going to let you see that though. Ever.

And without missing a beat, he wrapped himself up in a towel and left. Practically knocking you over onto your knees as he stormed by, the clattering of the bowel ringing all the way down the empty shrine and to Uraume.

You didn't let yourself tear up and cry at the stinging pain in your knees, but sat up and began cleaning the discarded mochi. Numbly cleaning the mess and tossing the useless food into the nearest garbage bin you could find.

"Come, the festival is going to begin soon." Sukuna announced soon after, collecting his desired things with Uraume standing close behind him.

"Human, the moon's not going to wait for you!"

He doesn't even want to look at me; I wouldn't blame him though, I'd hate me too..

As you made your way towards the village, you had grown a little tired. And while Sukuna hadn't spoken to you since the incident, he wasn't rude and lent you a ride as you made your way down to the village you had taken so many times before.

You were curled up in one of his four arms, held up by the forearm and given a bicep to call your pillow. An additional arm curled around you like a hamper or for a baby in a carriage, but you didn't mind.

The dream, on the other hand, was nothing short of a nightmare.

Blood splattered decorated the shrine's pristine walls, bodies of many women and children littered the floor as a large mass of shadows pushed open the main entry way doors. The feeling of unease and distress mixed like a horrible drink as a sense of psychotic energy was also shown through.

Of course, like many before, it was Sukuna.

Though, the smile that was usually adorn his face was replaced with a soft worried look that you'd never think to mix with Sukuna. It was odd, seeing the large curse dip down to cup your cheek and smile with a glow to his crimson eyes.

And you didn't get to ponder this odd sensation of butterflies that had erupted from your stomach as Sukuna woke you up and placed you on the ground.

"Let's go." He muttered, reaching out a hand for you to grab. "I don't want to lose my servants to pit-pockets and traffickers."

Glancing over at Uraume, who has already taken the lord's hand, turned to you and gave a soft nod and a smile. As if to say 'It's okay' as Sukuna took your small hand in his own and tugged you both along a path into the village.

Many people were too busy to take notice of the Cursed King walking past them; even averting their path from his was new, but Sukuna seemed to be unbothered by this.

"They always focus on the moon changing color rather than me this time of day," Sukuna groaned, answered your question when you brought it up.

"It annoys me, really. So don't bring it up."

Bowing your head down, you looked around you and felt another dazzling smile fill your cheeks once again. There were so many colors that had passed by you during the walk in, but you were amazed at the many different blues and purples that were there.

Some violet and magenta, or a ruby red and a cherry while some turquoise and greens also filled your sight. You couldn't help the girlish squeal you let out when you saw a toss game with a panda hanging from the roof.

"Sukuna, can I please try and win it?" You asked, pointing at the stuffed bear and tugging on Sukuna's arm.

He looked down at you then at the bear, brows furrowing together as a snort left him before his gaze turned back to you. "Why? You have one at home."

"But it's so cute; please?" You pleaded, the babyish look you were giving him tugging at his very heart strings.

With a deep sigh, he slowly released his grip from your hand and groaned. Lifting a finger, he pushed it into your face and glared once again with those gleaming, wicked eyes of his.

"One round."

Cheering, you quickly pulled the curse and Uraume over to the game, not even bothering to warn the surrounding crowd before pushing towards the game and smiling.

Sukuna, befuddled by your actions, looked down at the terrified tailor and groaned. "How much for a round?"

"F-Five hundred yen, s-sir.." The tailor stuttered out, a surprised look crossing Sukuna's face again.

Uraume fished out Sukuna's coins before lifting one up and tossing it to the tailor before Sukuna could utter a single word about the price and pushed you forward.

"Yes!" You smiled, reaching over and grabbing a ball.

Aiming for the large hole that had 'prizes' in written in bold, red kanji above it.

You tossed a shot and missed, only for your next two to nail it. Though, the points weren't enough for the panda, but you did win a little red panda that you found just as adorable and fuzzy.

"Good job, Y/n!" Uraume clapped, smiling proudly and giving your head a few encouraging pats.

You smiled at this, looking up at Sukuna whose arms had folded during your little exchange and choked. His eyes darting around before he eventually broke down and reached over a large hand to give your head a few pats too.

"Nice." Was all he muttered before he ushered you both off the moon festival's main event.

A group had gathered at a large hill a few meters off west towards the moon's shining rays.

A green pasture was just beyond it where families of the villagers sat on specially woven mats, the moon a pretty shade of pink woven into each one as the main point or integrated into the patterns themselves. Each one was marked by the names of the owners, which you found were giving them out as a special for the evening.

After pointing out the best spot for your little trio, you bowed and ran off to the nearest mat shop to buy some.

"Two Moon mats, please?" You asked, lifting two digits to the lady at work.

"That'll be a thousand yen, dear." She smiled, her aged hair up in a soft bun that had loose hairs covering bits of her face.

Quickly diving into your personal coin purse, you retrieved the money and gave her the coins. Two large mats fit for a king were handed to you and Uraume, whom had decided to join you on your little walk to the mat shop.

Though, as you made your way in between the groups, your heart ached with sadness. The situation in the baths wasn't mentioned that whole evening, and you knew that it was a rather embarrassing nature that was wishing to not be discussed.

But, the pain that you felt wouldn't stop eating at you until you did. The least you could do was go to Uraume for help.

"..Uraume?" You mumbled out, your sudden shift in mood alerting them. "Do you think he's having a good time here?"

"Oh, Sukuna?" They questioned, quirking an eyebrow at you and chuckling. "Of course he is; he's having the time of his life."

"He is?"

Your doubt made the seasoned subordinate smirk before they continued.

"Oh yes. I've never seen him smile like this before. Usually, he'd only smile after concurring another village or finishing a raid in a ship at sea. His smiles are only used during times of sorrow or destruction, but today, they were all happy and joyous because of.."

"Do you have those blasted mats?" Sukuna's sudden voice booming loud and cutting Uraume off.

The abrupt interruption made you both jump, but it threw you into a fit of giggles that Sukuna rolled his eyes at. Placing the mats below your feet, you climbed onto the mats cross legged and looked around you.

Lanterns and food were being passed around by this time, a warm glow of the small flames burning bright as the little pegs were stuck into the ground. Soon, your own set was handed to you, though with shaky hands as nervous eyes were sent in Sukuna's direction.

"Thank you." You said, giving the busy-boy a coin and waving warmly as to comfort him a little.

It didn't seem to work though as he took the money and ran, much to your annoyance. Grabbing the unlit lantern, you struggled to stick the peg into the ground before a sharp nail tapped your shoulder.

"Hand it over, mortal," Sukuna said, taking it the moment you lifted it up and stabbed it into the ground in front of you with a loud thump.

"There; you humans are so damn weak."

Cheeks burning red, you averted your gaze towards the crowd and fidgeting with your sleeves. Sukuna glanced down at your figure, brows knitting together in confusion as he sat down and stared at you for a moment.

"Master, you bento." Uraume said, patting his leg and handing him the box. "Itadakimasu, thank you for the meal."

"Thank you for the meal." Sukuna popped open the warm box the moment he finished his prayer, smelling well cooked rice and small balls of chicken dipped in a sweet sauce.

You did this too and cooed once the warm balls of meat hit your tongue; a small sign that your pallet would dine well that night.

While everyone was having their meals, there was an announcer that started making a small speech before the moon's color changing occurred. It was a small banter about being thankful for the easy year, Sukuna's protection, and the bounty in the food. Nothing much that peaked your interests much until they announced the main event.

"..Everyone, please wait in your seats as the color shifting starts!"

And you did, trembling with excitement as your eyes shined with the moon's reflection. Trained on the changing colors until a gasp left your lips, seeing the pretty shade of gold take over the orb in the sky. Stars twinkling in an amused way, making your smile even brighter.

And not far away, Sukuna's eyes hadn't left you. His face was no longer confused, but calm and alert. Taking in your excitement as if it was his own and a small smile formed at your cute figure. Uraume's clapping hands soft as their eyes darted from Sukuna's look to you and back again, until their own little devious smirk appeared as they lifted their gaze to the moon again.

"My Lord, you're staring at Y/n." They mumbled, leaning over and gently slapping Sukuna's knee.

"No I'm not." Sukuna huffed, his cheeks burning a little. Blinking a little before sending Uraume a mean look and turning his gaze to the moon.

"I was observing; making sure she didn't run off, or something."

"That or something's got your face turning into a tomato. Better calm yourself, my Lord."

Sukuna shot another glare their way, a laugh leaving them and covering their mouth before you could over hear. The little spat between the master and subordinate didn't last another second as Uraume apologized and looked to the sky again.

The red tint in Sukuna's cheeks left soon as he calmed his heart, looking at the stars and smiling again. He couldn't help it, seeing you having so much fun brought in that annoyingly warm feeling to him. It wasn't a painful feeling, it was just one that he shouldn't have for a servant.

"You're just a servant, nothing more.. Right?"

Sukuna didn't even know if he could stand by his earlier thought now, seeing as so much has happened.

And before he could mutter another word, a loud applause interrupted him as the moon was officially a yellow hue in the blue sky. You were clapping alongside the crowd, even giving little cheers and giggling as you stood up. Today felt so humble and relaxing, even as you made your way back home to the shrine.

Sukuna had taken it upon himself to carry the mats, while you and Uraume led the way with the lantern as your light source. You had been told to stick close with Uraume for the time being so that you'd be safe and followed them.

The bright glow of the lantern soon shined against the cobblestone walkway and a relieved sigh left you.

Heading inside, you were sent to the baths to clean and soon got out to dress in your nightgown. Your skin now clean of any germs, you quietly made your way back towards the gardens, wanting to see the yellow moon in all it's glory one more time before heading off to sleep.

Quietly, you ran down the garden beds and passed a tree that had started to bloom flowers. In all honesty, you found it rather cute when Uraume told you that it was an apple tree and said that it made up a little over half of the fruits in Sukuna's storage.

"Hope you ripen sometime soon so I can pick one!" You smiled, rubbing a small hand to the bark of it.

"Shouldn't you be inside?"

A jolt sent up your spine, you turned to see Sukuna's loomed figure in the shadows of the apple tree. Stepping forward to look at your small hand and sighed, looking up at the tree.

"That was planted a few years ago, I believe." He said, his folded arms covering his clothed chest. "Did Uraume tell you about it?"

"Y-Yes, sir." Ack, I said sir again. I thought I broke that habit.

Sukuna chuckled at your little slip of the tongue, stepping closer until he was next to you. His tall figure was twice your size in comparison, making a small squeak leave you when he placed a large hand next to yours.

"..Did you have a good time this evening, Y/n?"

Flinching at the sudden use of your name, you looked up at Sukuna's face and your cheeks flushed red. "Mhm."

Sukuna smiled at this, seeing your embarrassed expression up close. It was rather cute, admittedly ; as if he could hide it, his face wore a sly and dopey smile showing he was proud to cause the reaction.

Giving a small nod, Sukuna removed his hand and stood straight once again, a breath leaving him before he over at a few roses decorating the area.

Kneeling down, Sukuna picked one from its roots and turned to you.

"You know, I've been stuck on what happened before we left," He started, making you cut in and start blurting apologies.

"I'm so sorry about that, by the way.."

"Ah, shush. I was going to say that I don't really mind, so no need to apologize to me over such a small thing."

A blooming sensation washed over you, seeing Sukuna's face so close and seeing a sudden spark of charm in his eyes. The soft shine of the moon on his face was nice, making his eyes glow in the dark and shine a bright red. His smirk revealed his canines slightly, baring down like they were going to bite you at any moment.

Sukuna noticed the silence from you and smiled brighter.

"Prettiest rose out of the bunch."

Lifting the clipped rose, he tucked it behind your ear and made sure that he plucked the thorns free so they didn't cut you. With a soft pet on the head, Sukuna stood and left, leaving you alone to process his words and actions.

Slowly turning your gaze to where Sukuna disappeared before your face flushed a new warmth that contrasted the cold night air.

Am I supposed to be feeling this way?

a/n : And that concludes part 4 of Lost Lamb! I hope the ending was to your liking and that you enjoyed the read. If you didn't notice, I updated the look of these fics (this will also be in effect for the Loser series after I post the next part.) I had so much fun writing this chapter and hope you liked the fluffy flirting at the end~ <;33

lots of love, stay safe! <;33

taglist:: @mistalli, @ladywolf44005, @rainyrebelconnoisseur, @pyschopotatomeme

[bump1nthen1ght]

Searching For Redemption (Chapter 4/5)

(Male!Forest Spirit x GN!Reader)

Pairing: Male! Forest Spirit x Gender Neutral! Noble! Reader

Genre: Slow Burn, fluff, historical fantasy

Warnings: Descriptions of Blood and animal violence

Word Count: 2827 words

Summary: You've become accustomed to your new life, if only a bit. How will a trip back into civilization change that?

A/N: We're here!! The penultimate (not final, whoops) chapter!! Next ones going to be a doozy, so I hope y'all enjoy ❤️

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 5

It’s early in the morning, as early as you can go, when you head to the market for the first time.

It had been 3 weeks since marrying Cernon, though it felt like no time had passed at all. Your daily routine of manual labor and organizing made the days bleed together, the nights usually a quick dinner and a crash into bed. Time was kept in your mind by moments with Cernon. He’d slowly begun to talk more and more, chit chatting as you work or while you washed up during the night. He’d even complimented your deweeding skills a few days ago, a small ‘good job’ that had you flush with accomplishment. He was opening up, slowly, but surely.

Being back in town felt surreal. You’d grown used to the murmuring silence of the forest, of being sweaty and filthy as you fed, cleaned, and cooked. Now you’re out on the streets, where people could see you, talk to you, judge you. Unlike when you lived in the castle, there were no intimidating knights or carriage windows to hide behind. It’s terrifying and exhilarating all at the same time.

Only a few shops are open, mostly run by older folks who stick to their own schedule. It’s enough for you to pick up essentials from your shopping list, all while still staying discrete.

The first store you enter is one of your old favorites. Not that you had ever been inside, of course, but the cute outdoor patio was one of the favorite sites from the carriage. It was also run by the only shopkeep you knew personally, an adorable older woman, Doreen who would personally deliver the fresh pastries to your driver. She often went out of her way to hand you a couple extra muffins, knowing they are your favorite.

A bell chimes as you push open the door, hot oven air and the smell of fresh pastries washing over you. Those muffins you love are already put out on a platter on top of the display case, a little sign saying ‘Today’s special’ written in fine penmanship.

“In a minute, dear!” An old voice shouts, not silencing the muttering chit-chat from the kitchen. You wondered if the owner had multiple pastry chefs who worked for her, or maybe it was just her family getting ready for the day. You daydream about this hidden life you would have never learned about in the castle as you browse, fingers dancing across the display case.

Theres the swing of a door, pushed open by the owner, her apron already speckled with flour.

“What can I do for you-”

You both jolt when she drops her wooden spoon, finally getting a look at her first customer of the day. Her mouth hangs open and you can feel your ears get hot.

“Um, is everything alright?”

Apparently three weeks of desperately trying to read Cernon has honed your ability, as you can see the million thoughts racing across her face all at once. It’s in her eyes, her posture, and her still open mouth.

But she’s a pro at this game, and as quickly as you notice it she’s composed herself. A big, warm smile replaces the shock.

“I just wasn’t expecting to see you in the flesh, your majesty. To be honest, you’re a bit taller than I thought you’d be, after only seeing you through a window all these years.”

You both laugh, a breath of fresh air as all that anxiety leaves you in a moment.

“I’d imagine so, but I'm sure I lost a few inches from having to hunch in that carriage seat. All that money and you’d think they’d design more ergonomic cushions.”

You can practically hear your father now, scolding you for even daring to imply shoddy castle craftsmanship, even worse, mention money so plainly. It’s unbecoming of a noble, he’d curse at you, before slapping your wrist.

“Oh, and I was just thinking of buying that new silver studded one for my pets.” She jests, patting herself on the arm. “Guess I’ll have to settle for a tiara, times really are tough.” She winks and you chuckle again. The feeling in the air is lighthearted, warm, so different from taking trips to town from before. The conversation is so casual, so easy, you don’t even notice the hushed silence coming from the back, nor the wandering eyes of curious old women.

“Now, what can I get you darling?”

“Nothing crazy, I just remembered how much I loved your sourdough and thought I’d swing by. Oh and can I get five of the muffins, please?” Doreen nods, grabbing a pair of tongs and a satchel as she puts away the pastries. You let your eyes wander to the back shelf, seeing jars of flour, sugar, and even some jams. The large window into the kitchen beckons your gaze, your periphery just glancing three sets of peering eyes, which jerk away as you finally focus.

Huh, weird.

But then you see a neatly wrapped jar, decorated with a blue ribbon, on the shelf. It’s a little more full than the others, with a label and an itty bitty price tag.

“Could I also get some if that fig jam?”

Doreen glances backwards. “Sure thing, hon. I actually just started putting that out today, so you’ll be the first to taste my jam recipe.” Doreen laughed to herself. “Happy to know it will actually sell, too.”

“Well I’m extra excited. My husband loves figs, so I’m sure he’ll give an honest review.”

Doreen pauses mid motion, a muffin dropping into the bag from a limp tong. Somehow, the quiet of the back got even quieter. That familiar tension crawls up your back once more, remembering that first meeting with Cernon. All the fear you had for the beast in the woods.

Doreen coughs, clearly trying to hide her shock. “Well, I look forward to-”

“Whats he like?”

One of the spying eyes from the back pipes up, now easily recognizable as the fruit stand owner down the street. Doreen whips back around to her with a glare.

“Well we know he likes figs, thats for sure?” Says the other spy, the florist form next door.

“I didn’t realize he could eat produce, I assumed it was a meat only situation.” The end of the trio is the head seamstress from the tailors, fidgeting her hands back and forth.

“Ugh, could you imagine the morning breath? I think not.” The fruit stand owner replies, shuddering at the thought. “I won’t even kiss my Henry after he eats a pork pie, nonetheless raw meat.”

“I didn’t say raw meat, I said only meat.” Chides the seamstress. “My god, he’s not an animal.”

“Not like your Henry, at the very least.”

Doreen lays a hand in her hip, unimoressed with their banger. “You ladies done with you’re clucking? I have a customer, here.”

“Sod off, Doreen, you’re saying you’re nor curious?” Fruit stand owner snaps back, but with a friendly chide in her tone. “Besides, they just got married, it’s only polite to ask how the groom’s doing.”

Her other two spies don’t even look to believe her excuse, but Doreen rolls her eyes the hardest.

“Yeah, sure.” Doreen turns back to you “Sorry about them, dear. Y’know us old bats and our gossip.”

“Oh, its okay.” It really isn’t, but the opening they have given you is perfect for your second goal of the day. “I know some people were…shocked by the announcement. But he’s really not as monstrous as people describe, he’s actually very sweet and-”

“Is he romantic?” Fruit stand says, cutting off both you and Doreen. Florist slaps her on the shoulder

“Waste of a question, Marge. Obviously he’s a romantic, we all heard how he proposed.”

“I know that Edith.” Marge backs. “But unlike you, I want to hear the whole story, not what everyone’s talking about it.”

“Oh I bet it was a dream.” Seamstress sighs, a fond look in her eyes. “On one knee, his heart on his sleeve, a ring he crafted from precious gemstones from all over the world. But how did he ask the question?”

“Does he cook? All the best men know how to cook.” Marge adds on, craning her head over the others.

“Cooking’s a plus, sure, but does he know to clean? That's the sign of a real winner.” Edith interjects, crossing her arms like she’s had personal experience with the issue.

“Or does he bring you his prize game from the forest? I read a novel like that once, the male lead seemed like a catch and a half.” The seamstress interjects, that dreamlike look still in her eyes.

Doreen is annoyed, trying to ignore them and encourage you to do so well. But you’re a little shell-shocked. When you had first cooked up the cover story, you thought you'd have to sell it a lot more. You definitely weren’t expecting people to eat it up like the morning gossip, nor did you expect such…questions

The story went that the beast, upon first glance with your majesty, had fallen madly in love. He had fought and killed those knights in an attempt court their highness, convinced in his “barbaric” ways that his feats of strength in defeating rival suitors would prove his worthiness to them.

In an act of courage, your majesty had approached the creature, explaining human courting customs properly. Maddened by affection, the beast gave his deepest apologies and crafted a ring of precious jewels, declaring his love in a proper way. Moved by the beast’s feelings and cordiality, their majesty accepted, leaving behind their life of luxury to be with their one true life.

A part of you wanted to tell them that no, Cernon wasn’t a great chef. That he wasn’t necessarily a romantic per say, usually knee deep in muck and laughing when you slipped and fell. He was bad at keeping things in order and frankly, his hair got everywhere.

But he was good at hunting and he always did the dishes when you cooked for you both. He picked up when you slipped and told you how to stand in the mud so you’re more stable. He helped find a place for all your bathroom products and when he noticed you shivering at night, he’d throw an arm and his blanket around you till you get warm again. Cernon was real, genuine, all the messy things in between.

And he had killed people.

That was why you had sold the romanticism of the story so much. That special kind of longing, almost obsession, that seems so glamorous on the outside that you can forgive all the dirty parts you aren’t experiencing.

You feel a bit sick to your stomach, that soft memory of Cernon’s arms wrapped around now xon striding and hot. It was wet and had a metal tang.

“Dear? Everything alright?” You’re snapped back into the present and out of thr unknown, four old women staring at you curiosly.

“Oh yes, I just…” You pick at your knuckles, an old habit from childhood, “...It’s been so wonderful these past weeks, I guess it’s the honeymoon bliss.” You rest you chin in thr plan if yoru hand for added effect. “Not sure if I’m an accurate witness.”

The three in the back bluster, eyes darting in between each other like they know they're gonna gossip more about this later. Doreen’s smile is softer, content with your own happiness.

“Well, I’m glad to see it’s well and good. Now, you three,” Doreen points her spatula to the hens, “Go back and finish up the dishes from breakfast with these idle hands of yours. It’s too early for this much chit-chat.”

The three graciously retreat, though you do hear a little bit of murmuring of excited banter. Doreen rolls her eyes, handing you your groceries as you pass over some coin.

Before you can back away, she grabs your wrist.

“If you need anything, just always know we’re here, ok dear?” She pats the top of your hand, “You don’t have to do anything alone.”

You smile, whispering a shaky ‘thanks’ and rushing out before the tears fully settle in your eyes.

While it wasn’t necessarily needed, it was nice knowing you had someone in your corner.

—

The rest of the grocery shopping goes by with ease. Most of the shopkeeps are too baffled by your humble appearance to ask any prying questions, even though you can tell they want to. You are even able to pick up some extra stuff for a recipe Cernin wants to try out. He had read it in a cookbook brought from the palace and you had caught him eyeing over the text multiple times since then.

But the hours of stares and walking do get a bit tiring, leaving you drained by the time you reach the forest edge. With the boughs of trees shifting and shadows leaping out of the way to make your way back home, your mind is elft wandering.

Who exactly were you falling for? The beast in the woods, or Cernon?

—

You’re hunched over, wiping sweat from your neck with a handkerchief, when it happens.

It’s the heat of the day, a morning of barn deep-cleaning behind you, and Cernon is in the kitchen grabbing water for you both. As much as he shied away from your more material things, he’s taken up to filling your nice pitcher with lemon water every morning.

You’re a bit away from the house, sitting on a shady patch of grass. The thick forest side looks a little less ominous than before, but still conceals the shuffling and trotting of the boar. It’s only when she trots a few feet away from your patch that you notice her at all, jolting in surprise. She reminds you a bit of Sheila, one of the few pigs you’ve ever met, but far more grizzled. Maybe that's why you don’t feel as anxious as you should when she begins to huff, eyeing you warily. Pure inexperience proves to be to your detriment at this moment. You begin to kiss your lips together, rubbing your fingers together with a false treat. You’ve seen Cernon do this to the girls before.

Maybe she’s hurt? She seems nervous.

You slowly rise to your knees and her size becomes more apparent at eye level. If you had thought your hogs were massive before, that assumption has swiftly been corrected.

It takes only the smallest movement, a 2-inch step forward to spook her. That snuffling you associate with the girls isn’t playful or content, it’s a warning. It’s in a millisecond that you realize you’re in danger, the same millisecond that the boar charges.

You fall from your uneven footing and onto your butt, crawling backwards with wide eyes. The boar's tusks gleam in the light, all hard edges and bone white. Your stomach sinks low, your heart beating directly in your ears. Everything is so fast, colors blurring together, so you barely even register when Cernon pounces on the boar.

All you can see is the strong plane of his back, one set of his arms holding onto the boars tusks and the other digging his hands into the ground. The boar's sheer mass is able to push him back a couple feet, but he uses her tusks as leverage to whip her head around and throw her off her center. His hands lose grip on her weapons, both of them discombobulated as they try to regain the upper hand. His back paws dig leaves trails of upturned dirt behind him.

He swings one of his massive clawed hands at her face, trying to take out her eyes, but he misses. The boar has corrected herself and swings her large head under Cernon’s arms, colliding with his chest with a sickening crack. Spit flies from Cernons mouth as a breath claws its way out of him. His name dies on your lips, terror and shock robbing your voice from you.

But then Cernon roars.

It’s deep, shuddering through the ground and the woods as his claws dig into the boar's sides, raking deep crimson lines as she squeals. He uses both arms to push her up and away from his chest, throwing her against the side of a tree. She collides with a thud but rolls down, body limp.

Cernon falls to his knees, his chest heaving. You scramble onto your legs, nearly face planting as you run toward him.

His eyes, exhausted, swoop towards you. He bites his lip as a shock of pain coils through him, grasping his side. But he’s able to turn towards the house, barely applying pressure to push himself up to stand. Your arms swoop under his shoulders, just above his lower set of arms. The adrenaline is so potent, you don’t even register how heavy he is.

[writers-ex]

ugly sweater weather

word count: 1.5k

gf!ryujin x fem!reader

warnings: ugly sweaters, reader is a horrible knitter, teasing, strip tease/lingeire surprise, christmas puns :)

enjoy @musicblissworld~

"but babe its tradition!" crossing her arms ryujin looks at you with an annoyed look. grabbing her arm you tug on it softly giving her pleading eyes. "please!! i made this, especially for you, do you remember how long it took me? all those trips to the craft store to buy yarn? the constant sore wrists? sleepless nights?" holding up the item in question you quiver your lower lip as a final straw, ryujin's shoulders slump in defeat as she takes what you're holding up. 

"fine...but only for today and you're definitely on santa's naughty list this year! i mean this sweater is criminal?" grumbling the last part to herself she heads to your shared bedroom to change for the day's activities. as you finish cooking some gingerbread-shaped french toast you hear footsteps enter the kitchen, turning around you almost drop the plate in awe.

"...whatever i'll just tell them my girlfriend is color blind and knitted this in the dark surely-OW?!" rubbing her arm ryujin whines trying to escape from your grasp. "why did you pinch me?"

"hmph! you deserve it, just for that no french toast for you." letting go of her you head to the table to take her plate causing her to chase after you with a lost look.

"hmph! you deserve it, just for that no french toast for you." letting go of her you head to the table to take her plate causing her to chase after you with a lost look.

"no no i'm sorry love, my angel, my miss claus. you're the best knitter in the world and i'll wear anything you make me with pride. even if it means i have to change my name and wear sunglasses so no one-OW!!! i'm joking geeze stop with the pinching you're not the grinch!" kissing your cheek ryujin steals her food back and tries to scarf it down before you had any time to react.

eventually you both make it out of the house to begin your errands for the day. ryujin was in charge of buying the wrapping paper and decorations while you went to buy the groceries. you were supposed to meet back at the town square after dropping the things off at home to buy your gifts for your families and each other. finishing everything in light speed you see your girlfriend on her phone waiting on a bench nearby, running over you throw your arms around her neck and kiss her face multiple times. 

"guess who~"

smiling she turns around and kisses your lips. “i wonder who?” turning around she smiles brightly at you. “all done with getting our dinner ready?"

"yes ma'am, and you're done looking cute in that sweater?" rolling her eyes she gets up and takes your hand.

"shut up, i got laughed at by a little kid and one lady asked me i needed money. babe i'm sorry but i'm confiscating your needles when we get home. we'll leave the knitting to your mom ok?" pouting you nod dejectedly as she strokes your cheek. "but hey let's buy everyone's gifts who knows maybe we'll find matching sweaters to take a picture together later? how does that sound?" ears perking up at the idea your small nod makes ryujin squeeze your hand in return. "perfect, nutmeg is on me today."

after window shopping in little shops and kiosks all over town, you both managed to buy everyone's gifts yet there was no sign of matching sweaters that fit up to your standards.

"jin they have to be super ugly! that's the whole point of wearing them!!" shaking her head ryujin stays quiet as you continue to rant to her.

"you know what? we'll just order them off esty or something, right now you look like you need something sweet to calm down, i'll be right back ok?" walking toward the food stalls you take a seat nearby and wait for her to return. scanning the area you spot a shop you hadn't entered and decide to browse while you wait, getting closer you see that it was a lingerie shop full of themed underwear sets on sale for the season. looking around you settle on a cute matching set for you and ryujin in hopes of this making up for the ugly sweater you made her. 

walking out of the store you fail to realize ryujin watching you leave said store that she may or may not have gone to buy your lingerie before your previous birthdays. seeing you clutch the bag tightly in your hands she chuckles as you stuff it inside one of the gift bags you're holding. pretending as if nothing had happened you see ryujin holding a box of donuts and cheer as she comes closer. 

"they're for after dinner missy. now carry this box and i'll handle the gifts ok?" 

"yes dear~" kissing your handsome girlfriend on the cheek you lead the way back to your apartment. placing everything down ryujin gets to cooking dinner while you start wrapping everyone's presents. occasionally glancing at you she sees the mystery bag and your embarrassed look as you try to check if she's watching you. 

"i-i'm going to take a shower!!" quickly standing up you 'hide' the bag from her sight and book it to your bathroom. having an idea of what you were planning ryujin decides to play it dumb and wait to see what'll happen. putting on the underwear you smile at how the red complimented your skin making you look sexier than ever for your girlfriend, ryujin was going to be in a surprise for sure. covering it up with your black pjs shorts and an oversized hoodie you finish cooking for ryujin while she heads to shower and manage to plate everything as she comes out. chatting about your purchases and the reaction everyone will have after receiving your gifts you feel time slow as you wonder when would be the right time to show her. eyeing her chest multiple times it comes to the point where she grabs your chin and makes you look her in the eye. 

"um baby girl my eyes are up here unless you're thinking of something else?" smirking she waits until your flustered expression calms down and you've collected your thoughts. tugging at the end of her sweater you into her eyes challenging her silently.

"jin you know how i wanted to find us something to match for the holidays...well i found something and wanted to see what you thought." tilting her head she nods.

"sure thing let's have a fashion show in the living room." getting up she puts both of your dishes in the sink while you close your blinds and make sure the door is locked (just in case) before standing in the center of the area. sitting on the couch ryujin sits with her legs open as she lays back relaxed. "so where is the sweater?" playing with the string of your shorts you shake your head.

"a-actually jin...it's something different..." slipping your shorts off her eyes widen as you take off the hoodie and reveal what was underneath. sitting upright she scoots closer to get a better look at you. "i-i got us m-matching underwear w-well two pairs this red one and a really cute white patterned one but i felt like you would want to see this one first." hiding your hands behind your back you blush pink at the reveal. "sooo what do you think?" taking a moment to study the way the fabric barely hugged your body she feels herself get wet at the thought of all the things you could do together while wearing or rather not wearing this. moving her hands to touch your stomach trailing them down to cup your ass she pulls you close to bury her head in between your boobs. groaning she gives you a light squeeze and lets out a heavy breath.

"oh you're definitely on santa's naughty list now." mumbling against your chest ryujin pulls back and looks up at your face. "i love it babe, in fact, i love it so much that i think its time you sit on my lap and tell santa what you want for christmas this year or at least tonight." patting her lap she grabs your waist to place you against her. trailing her fingers up your bare thigh lingering near the waistband of your panty she whispers against your ear. "i'm feeling a bit chilly princess why don't we warm each other up in bed?" shivering at the nickname you nod and feel yourself swept into her arms locking lips all the way to bed.