#i wish i walked around generating sparkles too

[hollowfaith]

give an 𝔦𝔫𝔠𝔥, take a 𝖒𝖎𝖑𝖊

[gguk-n]

Hello there! Love your work on the Max Verstappen x reader fiction. If it isn't too much, can I request an angst based on the song " All I wanted was a coffee" by Samantha Ebert? You can decide the ending but, a gut wrenching angst with kelly is appreciated. Thank you!

I hope you like this, I tried to use the song in the way that I saw fit. The reader has many insecurities and bit of mommy issues. Mention of cuts and bleeding.

Part 1 of Do you love me?

I wish you loved me

{Reader’s POV}

Max and I started dating soon after he got out of a really long relationship with his ex. With Max being a Formula One driver; the details of his past were general knowledge, did I wish I didn’t know? Yes. Because in the pictures of Max and Kelly, you could see his eyes sparkled and he would smile so bright sometimes and I felt like I never got to know that Max. But every relationship is different; I couldn’t compare it, could I?

Max was loving, I mean every boyfriend is. He would sometimes forget important stuff but he was a busy man with an even busier job.

But it hurt when I saw Max with P or Kelly for that matter. His eyes would light up; I just felt like crap every time he met them, but Max never noticed. At the end of the day, Max was always around P while she was growing up, it was a given she missed him, right?

It got worse when Kelly started coming to races and meeting Max. The worst was yet to come; the other girlfriends started to side eye me whenever me and Max would interacted as if Max was Kelly’s boyfriend.

I was in the bathroom when I heard them; they were talking about how Max and Kelly looked cute together, they were the model family, that Max deserved better. Kelly even talked about all the gifts he got her and P recently. I just sat there in the cubical for a very long time.

I waited, I was dumb I know but no one’s loved me before and the fact that Max was willing to love me even for a moment felt like relief. I didn't want to let him go, I could not when there was a chance he would come back.

I waited like always, Max was always away having dinner with P since she missed him. She missed him a lot ever since we started dating. I never said anything since Max was like her father figure but it hurt.

One of those nights, I was sat drinking whiskey, it was in Max’s alcohol cabinet. The bottle was almost over. The snacks dried up soon after the third glass. I was sat on the floor, glass in hand when Max walked in. “World’s best dad everyone” I sang. “How much did you drink?” He laughed. He laughed at me. “You know my mother was right” I said, trying to get up. “She wasn’t really the best mom, now was she” Max commented. “Yeah but she was right about a lot of things and she was right about how difficult to love I was” I laughed. Max looked at me with sadness in his eyes, “don’t pity me Max.... How could Kelly steal you from me?” I cried. Max said nothing. “No no sorry sorry, how can something be stolen from me when it was never mine to begin with.” I laughed bitterly taking the last swig from my glass. “The alcohol’s gone Max, just like your feelings for me or did you ever have them to begin with?” I slurred.

“Y/N I” Max began. “No Max, you’re not at fault. It’s my fault for coming between 2 lovers. You should’ve told me that you loved her, I would’ve never dated you” I cried for the first time tonight in front of Max. As I steadied myself, the whiskey bottle fell and broke, and I tried to pick up the pieces but ended up cutting myself. “Hehe look Max I’m bleeding” I giggled holding up my hand. “Y/N let’s clean that up” Max said trying to hold my hand. “NO, Kelly won’t like it. I’m not a home wrecker...or maybe I am” I laughed bitterly. “Let me help you” Max pleaded. “You look at me with so much concern for the first time since we started dating” I pointed out. Max’s eyes bore into mine. I tried to walk away but ended up stepping on the glass. “Look I’m bleeding from my foot now too. At least now people can see that I’m hurting since I’ll have bandages all over me. My heart ache gets missed every time, you know. Maybe now, they might see my hurt, for once” I said with fresh tears forming.

“Mothers are always right. I’m unlovable, always been. If only I was pretty, if only I was a model, if only I was thinner, if only I was….Kelly Piquet, then you would’ve loved me. But I’m me, I’m plain old difficult to love, Y/N that’s why I’m unlovable” I chuckled. “Let’s go to the hospital” he pleaded again. “No, I’ll take care of myself. Don’t worry about me anymore. I’ll be out of your hair before you know it. Then you can have your happy ever after with Kelly” I laughed bitterly. “Did you ever love me?” I asked. Max was quiet. “I was just a rebound wasn’t I. Tell me you really loved me even for a second” I begged. “I’m sorry.” He said.

I grabbed my phone with my other hand while bleeding on to the floor; “don’t worry. I’ll clean your place before I leave” I said looking at the trail of blood I was leaving and dialled my phone calling the only person I knew in Monaco, the only person who didn’t hate me or talk badly about me, Lewis. “Lewis, Hi....I need to go to the hospital. I’m bleeding” I giggled. “Are you drunk? How did you hurt your self? Where are you?” He asked concerned. “Yes, yes, home no wait, Max’s home” I answered. I heard him sigh. “Where Max?” He asked. “He’s here” I said looking up at Max. “Ask him to take you now?” Lewis suggested. “NO, we broke up, and ex-boyfriend’s don’t take their ex-girlfriend’s to the doctor” I explained. “What?” He asked shocked. “Please Lewis, it hurts. Can you come soon?” I asked. “I’ll be there soon” Lewis said and cut the call. I sat there and looked at Max, “The whiskey tasted sweet as always and you sobered me up so fast” I sighed looking at the mess I had made.

Lewis came to take me to the hospital; he did not speak to Max. I guess even he knew what was going on. I didn’t see Max again after that either.

[irllyroundballs]

Genshin men with a hot ass reader?!

Scaramouche, Kazuha, Childe, Al-Haitham, Cyno x Reader

I’m so sorry for the wait, and this isn’t as long, but regardless I hope you enjoy<33 @alizaneth (I can’t find your other @ 😨)

Scaramouche

He never thought he would be defiled by the shackles of beauty and romanticism but fuck, you were really hot, so fucking hot. He really wanted to look away but he just-- he just couldn't! Everything about you was so alluring, everything you did made him want to watch more. And just calling you hot would be an utterly impudent way to describe someone like you.

"Need something?" You smiled, he almost melted on the spot. Your smile was so pretty.

"Huh? No. I didn't need anything." Youd be a liar if you said you didnt notice his little blush.

You tilt your head, a hand moving to your hip, "Is that so? You were staring." You tried to bite back a laugh from the way he shriveled.

"You're pretty.." he mumbled.

"What was that?" You couldn't help but tease, he's too cute!

He walked closer to you, snaking an arm your waist, taking another hand and holding yours, then snuggling his head into your neck, "I said, you're really pretty, I like everything about you. I like your eyes and the way they sparkle, I like your cute hands, and I like your smile, I want to have them forever."

"Someone sentimental.”

“Shut up.”

Kazuha

To my dearest,

I'm sorry for my prolonged absence, I truly do wish to bask in your presence once more. But this journey is long, and taking lots longer than anticipated, I too-- had hoped to be in your arms by now. I miss your sweet scent, your loving embrace, your warm touch, the glisten in your star struck eyes. I wish for every second I have to be with you, if you long for more stars in the sky and I will shoot them for you, I would stare into your eyes everyday in hopes I go blind so you may be the last thing I see, I wish to breath nothing but you-- for you are my air. I hope to be home soon, please wait a little longer my love.

Forever missing you, your beloved husband

Childe

See, this was his first time, seeing someone so pretty-- I mean, he's most definitely very attractive people in his life, but by the gods, you were quite literally too hot to handle. After every encounter he was close to fainting, once, he got a nosebleed after you had snuck up on him! Your harmonic voice ringing in his ears.. oh gods, he was simping. But a poor soul he was, he had zero rizz.

"Hello there pretty thing." He smirked, attempting to lean against a wall, little did he know he was just a tad too far away which resulted in him almost falling, stumbling he manages to lean against the wall wiggling his eyebrows.

You laughed, shit, your laugh was really cute, "Hello, Childe. What brings around here?"

"I just wanted too see the PretTiest person eVer." His voice cracking in-between, fuck, has he always been this nervous around you?

You only laughed, walking forward, "Come, let's go for a stroll."

Thank god you had a thing for losers.

Al-Haitham

Al-Haitham is not one easily swayed by second class, biased, standards of beauty, except you, fucking hell, you defied all known logic of beauty and standards, you were the essence of ethereality, built by the most generous of god's, handpicked to be their hidden most precious gem.

The way the golden sun hit your skin the exact same one you always seemed to be glowing in, the way your voice was basically etched into his brain, the way it felt as though he constantly wanted to be in your embrace, always wanting you-- wanting to be nothing but yours.

So when the faithful day he finally had a chance to converse with you he knew he couldn't fail.

"Hello, you are.. er.. looking nice today." He was awkward about it, and so was his "smile"-- to be honest, you couldn't even consider it that, it's was more like his face was contoreted by a child, you weren't sure whether to run away and cry or ask him if his face is ok, never once had you seen the man smile.

"Oh! Uh.. Thank you, Grand Sage (?)." You looked down, picking at your hands.

Damnit, why did you react like that? He complimented you, just like the book told him to do (The book: how to rizz them up), was that you being embarrassed? No way, it didn't look like it, was his smile weird? You looked back at him up it took a few moments for you to actually say something.

Swallowing your saliva you spoke, "Uhm.. Mr Grand Sage, why are you staring at me like that..? It's a bit scary, Sir.." It was so hard to say that, that was your boss for goodness sake, he could fire you for anything if you did anything wrong, though, he doesn't seem like the type.

"Oh."

.

.

.

You think you’re about to faint, "Oh"?!

"I see, my apologies. I was trying to smile. I truly don't doubt my sincerity, you truly do look so uhm.. attractive (?)." He clears his throat, "I'm sorry, I'm not that best with this romantic predicaments. I would like you to dinner, would you like that?"

Cyno

Cyno has always found it easy to tell people "no", it was never a hard word for him. On a constant basis would be be using the word. But why, why is it though he simply cannot bring himself to say it to you?

Perhaps it was the thought he couldn't stand the thought of you being upset with him, your tears, or even perhaps your indifference.

This time, you need help with some commissions, but it was finally his off, he wanted to play TGC, could you blame him for his reluctance?

Your eyes soften, "Please Cyno? I can't do it without you."

Fuckfuckfuckfuckfuck, fuck it all, shit. He froze, I think his pulse stopped, tighnari running up to him and playfully checking his pulse, "Uh-oh, we're loosing him!" He teased hitting cyno's shoulder.

How could he resist you? Fuck it all, "I- uh.." he signed, "fine."

"Ohh! Thank you, Cyno! You're the best! I'll pay you back promise!"

He only wanted you.

[echantedtoon]

A Lovers' Circle (Poly Haishira x Reader) Ch2

(Warnings: Some men being creeps towards Y/n, possibly some innuendos. Mentioned drinking and throwing up. Yn's bad date gets drunk.)

A  soothing plot of violin music danced with echoed tones throughout the square shaped room. The lovely music beating from the speaker system in the upper right corner. The softness of the melody was married to the surrounding ambience of silverware colliding with porcelain, clinking of glasses, and the soft sweet murmuring of voices. 

A quant little scenery to beheld a romantic gesture. A meeting of courtship. Possible start of love.

Eating in such a luxurious restaurant was not something she expected to be doing today.

Dim candlelights and low lights added that soft glow to the blue colored walls. A beautiful small chandelier handing up right in the center for a piece of class catching the glow in sparkling crystals. A pretty sight for sure. The sounds of at least three couples enjoying their nights of passion and love humored the beautiful room making it alive and more beautiful as they sat among the the beautiful cherry wood tables sitting in plush chairs and smiling amongst the lit candles on their white laced tablecloths.  An elderly couple in their golden years smiled at each other lovingly as the husband held his wife's hand shakily but still with love that lasted decades. No doubt a new couple right across from them trapped in the enchantment of first love's fire burning bright. A third one no doubt also enthralled with one another in the moment.

The slight itch of eyeshadow caused a woman's eyes to slightly blink and look around towards the surroundings. A slight frown dusted lipstick colored lips as they turned back to the candlelight in front of f/c orbs.

"Are you ready to order now, Ma'am?"

You jumped at the sudden soft voice. Blinking and directing your eyes towards the person who suddenly appeared in front of you. A generic waitress in black and white uniform smiling that familiar customer service grin, pen and paper at the ready to write down the wishes of the customer's taste buds.

"Oh! No. I uh-.. Well you see-" Eyes glanced towards the beautiful antique looking grandfather clock I the far left wall. According to it it was six o seven in the afternoon. Two hours and seven minutes from when you were supposed to meet with a certain person. "Um. Yeah. No." An awkward smile was given. "I-I'm still waiting for someone."

The waitress gave a look. A knowing one that probably said more about the situation but didn't comment on it as she turned and simply walked away from you. The awkward smile persisted more until she left you sitting there. Frowning again and staring down at the empty plate. The sigh that left your lips was loud and if you weren't far from most everyone else then you would've probably gotten looks. 

"You sound as if you are saddens by something."

You jumped once again as a deep voice spoke and you turned all the way around. . And you stared. A few seconds in you realized you were staring at the back of a large torso, and part of an arm. Blinking your eyes slowly trailed up and up and up-

"I apologize if I am too forward. I just couldn't help but notice that you were sounding a bit distressed."

You stared up in shock and see at the man behind you. Holy cow. He was..very tall. A head of black hair and tan skin greeted you as well as a pair of pure white eyes. The entire image took you off guard but you were more surprised that someone like him was able to come into the restaurant and you didn't notice. Were you that distracted?

"Uh. N-No." You held up a hand. Don't know why, if his eyes were like that then he was most likely blind. "Im meeting someone. Well I-I'm supposed to be." You turned back around and craned your neck to look around... however you sighed in defeat. "At least that was the idea."

"A date?"

"Blind date actually." You deadpanned sighing again. "My aunt, she's a matchmaker and this was all her idea."

"Ah. That is very kind of your aunt to arrange."

"Not really. The last few have been quite terrible." 

"Oh? How so?"

Where should you start?  How about the first time where your date looked nothing like his age or picture from the profile your aunt found? The man was old enough to be your grandfather! Thank goodness for the call your mom put in to ask how the date went, couldn't fake an emergency call faster. Or how about the time she set you up with a narcissist 'freelance nutritionist' who insisted your slight pollen allergy was because you didn't hear about his MLM pyramid scheme- You mean his totally legit dietary plan he was gonna sell to you for only a hundred dollars!!..You blocked his number after nearly twenty texts from him asking when you were gonna buy his 'diet plans'.

Or how about the time your aunt surprised you by setting you up on a blind double date with your cousin, her boyfriend, and his brother!! Which you didn't know was a date and you thought you all were only hanging out until said boyfriend's brother tried to kiss you, poured his drink on your shirt when you refused, and stomped off leaving you shocked and covered in lemonade. And then you had to call a taxi home because your cousin's boyfriend got made at YOU for making his brother angry and left you at the mall alone. Thank God for taxi services.

Or how about the guy you met at the bar who was already drunk when you arrived and threw up all over your car when you drove him home?Or how about the time you had lunch with that librarian? He was very nice, polite, maybe a bit paranoid and you found out why when his WIFE carrying a five month old baby stormed into the cafe and started loudly cursing both her HUSBAND and you out. 

You stopped going on dates after that and had a VERY firm and long talk with your aunt about her meddling with your love life. You only agreed to go on one last date because some rich people had paid your aunt to set him up with a girl. ANY girl. Apparently they were desperate to get him to meet some people. You only agreed because your aunt needed the job badly and you were promised a free dinner for your efforts. 

So with your permission, your aunt showed the guy a picture of you and showed you a pic in return. Recent according to his parents. Taken at a relative's wedding. You had to admit, he didn't look so bad. Pretty normal with wavy but short brown hair and matching brown eyes, average height and weight for a man at twenty four. From what your aunt told you he's a local college student majoring in computer sciences and from her interactions he's pretty forward but nice when they spoke in person. Ok. She gave you thirty dollars to buy yourself a free dinner so it's not too bad.

You did receive his number and had a brief conversation with him. He sounded normal if a little bored sounding, but you both agreed to meet at a nice restaurant called The Tuttles' Bar and Food at four the following Thursday. And that following Thursday you got dressed up nicely and went to go meet him. Arriving a few minutes early, and sending a quick text to him.

Y/n: Hey. I'm here a bit early!

Jake: K

Y/n: I'll wait for you inside. Ok?:)

Jake: Sure. At a friend's so imma be late.

Y/n: That's ok. I'll be sitting on the right side. See you soon.

So you went in and sat down and waited. And waited. And waited some more. Until two hours and seven minutes (and counting-) went by. You did send him a text thirty minutes in.

Y/n: You still coming?

Jake: Yep! Just left the house 

And then another one two hours in.

Y/n: Hey. Did you get lost or something? I've been waiting for nearly two hours now.

Left on read.

Y/n: Do you need directions? You ok?

Left on read.

Y/n: Look. If you don't want to go on a date at least tell me so I can just know you're not coming.

No answer. Not even left on read this time. 

You were very frustrated but decided to be nice and give him ten more minutes before you got up and just go get take out with the money your aunt gave you. It was six o' seven so only three minutes left to go before you left. 

"Well I think I'm being ghosted." You shrugged despite knowing that the stranger couldn't see you at all. "I haven't seen him for over two hours. Won't even answer my texts. What about you? Waiting for someone?"

He smiled. "Goodness that does sound rude. No." He shook his head. "No. A good friend of mine recommended this place to me for the excellent steaks they serve. I happened to be in the area visiting the local shrine and figured I'd stop by."

"Ah. That sounds quite nice, Mister-"

"Gyomei Himejima." He nodded towards you. "How do you do, Miss?"

"Y/n. Y/n L/n.  It's nice to meet you, Mr. Himejima."

"Please call me Gyomei. Mr. Himejima was my grandfather."

You smiled happier looking at Gyomei before glancing over at the clock again. Six o' ten. Whelp looks like your waiting time was up. "..It was very nice to meet you Mr- I mean Gyomei, but I think I better get ready to go." You were already reaching for your purse. Since you didn't eat anything you didn't have to pay at least. Oh well. Take out night it was. 

"A pleasure. I do hope the rest of your night is we-"

A loud woman's yelp of pain caught both of your attention as you looked back forward and blinked.

"Whoops. Sorry 'bout that lady." 

You blinked and only watched as none other than your date stumbled in, literally stumbled. Walking a bit wobbly like he was dizzy and stopped a moment as a waitress looked on with a glare. He stopped with a large grin on his face. He looked around and spotted you before wobble-walking his way over and with a grunt plopped him down in the chair across from you, bumping the table and making the candle holder. You gasped and thankfully grabbed the candle holder before it could tip over and light the pretty tablecloth on fire.

"Hoo! Man what a party. I'm telling you that last round was a killer. Never try chugging lemonade in the middle of an eating contest." 

You stared at him still. "Uh..." You hesitated gently grimacing at the sight of him. "Jake?"

"That's me."

....The picture you saw didn't do him justice. Photo Jake looked nice. Not really fancily dressed up but nice looking. THIS Jake did not look the least bit presentable. He literally looked like he just got out of bed, messy hair, eye bags, and all and looked disheveled like he was hit by a giant gust of wind on the way here. Shirt untucked and partially opened, and lightly dirty by the looks of it. All his clothes were wrinkled and...

"Is that a lipstick stain?" You pointed at his collar but he didn't seem bothered in the slightest.

"Huh? Oh yeah. Won a lucky strike at spin the bottle." His hand flicked his collar before he leaned back in the chair and looked nonchalant. "Speaking of lucky. Dam! I didn't know that my date was cute." A shiver ran down your spine at the way he slowly looked you up and down like he had xray vision. 

"Uh-...*ahem* S-So!" You pushed an awkward smile onto your face. "I'm starving! Let's get something to eat!"

"Great idea! I could eat a fucking horse."

You only chuckled nervously however neither of you were aware of the larger spectator, tilting his head slightly at the table behind him.

"Are you ready for the check, Sir?"

".. Actually I think I'll get a small appetizer."

You managed to wave down a waiter this time who smiled at you both and handed you a menu each. Asking you what you'd both would like with a notepad and pen at the ready.

"Mm. This all looks so good!," you broke the ice gazing over the items in your price range. "You know it's my first time coming to this place? Have you been here before?"

"Uh huh. That's nice babe." He bluntly stated looking boredly at the menu before just closing it with an eye roll and tossing it back onto the table. "Hey, buddy. Be a pal and get me some of that beef wellington ya got there and some red wine. And..cremd brulee stuff. Y'know what. Scratch that. Just bring me the whole bottle." He motioned towards the other man.

 If the waiter was annoyed with his actions he didn't show it. Only nodded and wrote down what he said. "And your partner?"

You opened your mouth-

"Yeah. She'll have a small salad and water. No sides. Now hop to it."

Your jaw dropped in shock brain processing for a moment as the waiter nodded and turned to walk away from you all.

"A-Actually I'd like a-" It was too late. The waiter was already gone before he could get a chance to hear you. His footfalls faded away before you slowly turned back to the bored looking man. "Why'd you do that?'

"Huh? Do what?"

You felt yourself frown. "Order for me. I didn't ask you to oder anything for me, and I didn't want a salad."

"What? Are you trying to get fat or something?"

Once more you felt your jaw drop in the audacity of this man .. before deeply inhaling through your nose. It's ok. This is fine. At least your food would be fast to eat and cheap. You'd buy yourself a burger on the way home and forget about this entire thing. 

"So. Jake. My aunt told me you're majoring in computer programming", you tried changing the topic again. "That's really interesting. I'm taking online classes for baking and pastry arts myself! I'm hoping to start my own bakery!"

"Oh. You cook?" He finally looked not bored slightly.

You happily nodded. "Yes!"

"What stuff you cook?"

"All kinds of stuff really but mostly stuff like cupcakes and bread."

"Eh. Don't really like that stuff too much." That's ok. Not everyone had a big sweet tooth. "But you cook so that's one redeeming quality for you. Girls don't want to do anything useful anymore."

"Excuse me?"

"Bless you. But that's what she told you? Pfft." He rolled his eyes again pointing at you. "I'm only taking the dam course to make my old man happy. But the real money is in marketing! You ever heard of ai generating?"

"....Oh."

Oh God. He was one of THOSE. 

"Um. Actually maybe we should see if our foods ready-"

"It's like giving a computer a brain," he ignored what you said talking over you and pointing his hands together. "But it's not self thinking see. It's more like a search bar online except you can use it for actual useful shit! Like I can make a website for people to pay me and then they can create stuff they want! I can even use it to write like reports and stuff! Y'know how many people doing those impossible classes would pay for something like that?! I'd make more money than my old man over night!"

If it didn't smear your make up you would've rubbed your face in frustration. He continued onwards speaking about ai generating programs and what he wanted to use it for. You think he even forgot you were literally sitting there for a while going on about his stupid rant. Until your saving grace arrived in the form of food. Oh thank gods! You swore you could've kissed that waiter as he brought over a tray of food. Wine, beef wellington, and a fancy desert for him....Water and the world's sorriest excuse of a salad for you.  This didn't even come with dressing. 

"So like I was saying." 

He spoke up pulling at the cork of the bottle until it went flying with a pop and instead of pouring it into the nice wine glass the waiter provided him, he tilted his head back, brought the bottle to his lips, and just straight up started chugging the wine! You could only watch dumbstruck as he gulped it back. Others stared at you and your 'date'. One woman even muttered something that sounded like 'oh my' before he just slammed the bottle back on the table and messily wiped his mouth on his sleeve.

"I'll pay one of those techno wizards to make the website for me and add like a security system and like a password stuff for only me to get into. Everyone else is gonna pay for it."

...you just started to silently eat the salad quickly. It gave you an excuse not to talk and the faster you finished it, the faster you could leave the guy going on about just being lazy in life and messily chewing the food between words grossly. You just continued to not make eye contact as he continued spouting off whatever. Chugging down wine and gobbling up the fancy food you were sure glad you didn't have to pay for. 

"So IIIIIII said why dontcha just shut up and dooo it yourself ??? Cuz like m not doing anything for a dam ass asshole who owes mmmmmeee fifty bucks already." He slowly started to slur his words swaying a bit in his seat. Food dripped onto his shirt and pants leaving stains no doubt. "Hhheeyy. Arencha gonna eat that?"

"I think I lost my appetite."

THUNK!!

You gave a small shriek pulling your hands up from the table as without warning he slapped an arm across the table and grabbed your plate. The fork in your grip clattering to the floor as he dragged what was left of your food and dragged it over to him.

"Gimme! Ill eat the dam thing." Without even a pause he continued what he's been doing just chugging down the bottle and eating. "You're rrrrrreeeeaallllyyy good lookin' y'knooooww that? But if ya gonna be wit me ya gotta drop the wwwwwwhhhhooollleee silent act....Acccctually scratch that. I-I like ya better like that. Nnnn  when ya cook n cleeeeeaaannnn tooooo and*BURP!* Give my fiuuuuckin kiiiids a-a-....Did ya knnnoooow I'm dealing with any girls?? I got too many women in my dam family already.."

"Are you drunk, crazy, or both?! Because I think it's both!!" You scowled at him with hatred now. "I think this date's over now. Is anyone picking you up?'

"My pppppaallbut good idea.. we can go back to my pla-"

"ABSOLUTELY NOT!!" You snapped around and locked eyes with the nearest waitress staring wide eyed at the sight. "Can I have the check please?! And quickly!"

A loud burp caught your unfortunate attention back to Jake before he stood up. Jostling the table and pushing it forward to shake everything on it, including your water that thankfully didn't spill on you but it did spill across the table. 

"What is wrong with you?" You shouted to him grabbing the table and stopping it before it could ram into your stomach. Another loud burp enveloped from his maw. "Uh! That's disgusting. At least say excuse me."

"Ah shuddap! Girls don't know what a real man is anymore thanks to feminism!! I'm a nice guy!"

"Oh dear gods. You're one of those too?!"

"Fuuuaasck ok!! I'm going just gggggooooo now-" He made a grunt sound as he looked into the barrel of the bottle and now decided to messily pour what was left into the wine glass(that somehow miraculously didn't fall over when he scooted the table up) and then dropped the bottle with a thunk when the glass was mostly full. "Look at that. I still got summm." He slurred his words shakily grabbing the glass and smiling at it. "IS FULLLLL..LOOKIT!!'

Time seemed to slow down as he thrusted the glass forward towards you. Red liquid toppled through the air turning over and over. And then a loud splash sound permeated the air as it mFe contact along the table and the fabric of a cotton candy pink dress. You shrieked out as red liquid splashed across the front top of your dress before you shot up. Looking down at yourself as it ran from the top of your dress to about four inches above your knees in a splattery line pattern. The wetness already seeping through your dress and sticking to the skin. You shot up to your feet looking down at yourself as your 'date' did nothing but messily drink on the empty cup before stumbling and dropping the glass. It shattered beside him as he wobbled on his feet and blinked at nothing really. 

"I don't feel so good."

You didn't even bother looking up when you froze hearing a wet splattering noise as soon as he turned around and one of the other ladies sitting in the restaurant screamed like in one of those horror movies. You could only stand there numbly and stare at yourself. 

"Hey...I didn' bring mah wallet. Can ya cover dis??"

You stood there still staring at nothing but your filthy now stained dress in the middle of the mess he made feeling the stares of everyone else around you staring...And then you just started crying. Crying, and crying as big tears rolled down your face and made your mascara run in black globs down your cheeks. Jake didn't pay attention just stumbling around a bit out of his mind. 

"So like...can you pay? Then I can like pay ya back a different way- *BURP!!*"

A hand extended over to make a grab towards the shaking woman's arm. However whatever motion was made was completely stopped by a much larger hand wrapping itself tightly around the arms enveloping it entirely. A mountain of muscle and body turned from where he had reached around to stop him. Drunken glazed eyes blinking at the whites of clarity thinking.

"I think that you have done enough. Why don't you step away from the table like a gentleman?"

You didn't hear what was said behind you. Only crying and staring at yourself but at one point you sat back in the chair as Jake stumbled off somewhere else entirely as you sat there still crying and sobbing.

"Excuse me, Miss." You flinched looking up into the eyes of a waitress that gave you a frown of pity. She gingerly held out a small piece of paper. "My manager asked me to give you this check."

Oh finally! It was about time! You just wanted to pay for your food, go home, and forget that this ever happened. You sniffled a little more wiping at your eyes staring at your bill.. before your eyes nearly popped out from your skull seeing what was listed on it. 

Beef Wellington: $100.54 Red Wine: $60.50 Small Salad: $10.95 Creme Brulee: $13.70 Tip:$37.00 Total:$ 222.69

$20 TC

$5 WG

You stared at it wide eyed and jaw dropped looking at it, then at the still empathetic waitress, then back to the bill. Again and again... Before pointing at it.

"W-What?" Was all you could say.

"Your partner wasn't able to pay and there's the additional damages to the tablecloth and wine glass, Miss." She explained pointing a hand to where it said 'tc' and 'wc' on the bottom of the bill. "That's what these stand for."

You stared gobsmacked at her. "B-But...I only had a salad! I-I didn't even do any of this!" 

"I know but someone has to pay and your 'date' already left."

"WHAT!?"

"Excuse me?" Both of you looked up. An older man in a normal pair of clothes looked the both of you over. "Which one of you is Y/n L/n?"

You sniffed. "Who are you?"

"Your obor driver. I was called to meet you here in advance."

You stared confused. "...I-I didn't call an obor."

"Really? Well the guy waiting in the car says you were going to pay for his ride home." Your mouth dropped as he held up a hand. "Look. All I know is that the bill's in your name and I can't go anywhere unless I'm paid, and I need to be paid anyways for coming out here."

"Wha- I-...H-How much?"

"It's eighty for the entire trip here and where he told me he wants to be dropped off."

You only stared at the both of them before just looking down at the bill now weighing more heavy in your hands ..and your hands shakily reached out for your purse and the card inside. You weren't going to be responsible for a drunk idiot not getting home safely, and you just wanted to go home. In total you paid three hundred twenty seven dollars and sixty nine cents. 

Two hundred twenty two dollars and sixty nine cents was for the entire food bill, most of which you didn't even eat, including a twenty percent tip for the waiter! Twenty five dollars for the damages you didn't cause! And an extra eighty dollars just to make sure the idiot who caused your entire terrible experience didn't get hurt wondering around like a drunken idiot!! By the end of it you didn't have enough money to pay for a taxi ride yourself or for decent food!! And you were still covered in runny make up and wine and smelt like alcohol! 

You just paid and rushed out as fast as you could to avoid the eyes still staring at you. Breathing a sigh of relief when the smell of alcohol and barf was finally behind you. Standing outside on the sidewalk and breathing a sigh of relief to the fresh air. At least that Jake was gone so this night couldn't get any more worse-

SPLASH!!

"AH!?"

You shrieked out as a car drove past you quicker than the legal limit. Hitting a rather large and VERY muddy puddle in front of you sending it flying through the air and splashing all over you as it raced past and into the setting sun's light....You stood there drenched as dirt clung onto you and your hair cling onto your face. Comically a glob of mud ran down your arm and dropped onto the wet sidewalk as the first rounds of another round of rain rumbled above you in thunder. 

...A fresh batch of tears started up in your eyes as the first few drops of rain hit your shoulders.

That's how you found yourself completely drenched walking home in the pouring rain, filthy, your heels just shoved under your arms from how sore wearing them so long had made your feet, most of your money gone, humiliated, clothes completely ruined, and- Your stomach rumbled again louder and completely empty. That sorry excuse of a salad not filling you at all(you didn't even eat the whole thing) and you didn't have enough money to buy yourself anything. You guessed it was going to be another instant ramen night. You were too tired to fully cook something and by the time you got home it'd be really late anyways.

Your feet hit the sidewalk with each step you took making a small splash sound. Well..At least now it couldn't get any worse. 

"Miss?"

You squeaked again jumping in your spot before whirling around and finding yourself face to face with a torso..you blinked before looking up, up, up and staring into the eyes of the tallest blind man you've ever seen with his coat slung over his arm.

"Oh. Mr. H-Himejima-"

"Gyomei."

"Gyomei." You sniffed and wiped at your face. Wouldn't do a bit of good as you stood in the pouring rain. At least this guy had a comically large umbrella keeping him dry. "L-Look. If you want something O-Or if your food got ruined too I can't pay for it-"

"Goodness no. I'm not here to demand money of you." His large hand held up a purse comically small in his palm. "You forgot your purse at the restaurant. I had to catch up to you to return it."

Your eyes widened. "My purse!" You reached out to quickly take it from him immediately. You couldn't believe you forgot about this. "I can't believe it." You looked back up to him smiling. "Thank you so much!"

He smiled wider at you. "I would've returned it to you sooner but I wanted to be sure that man didn't try to harm you again and by the time I came back I couldn't find you anywhere in the restaurant."

"Y-Yeah. I did leave pretty quick. But thank you for this. You have no idea how much I appreciate it-"

*GROWL!*

You both paused as your stomach growled rather loudly making him tilt his head and you flush a pink from how loud your stomach growled.

"Your stomach? I take it you're still hungry."

"Um..Y-Yeah. B-But I can't eat until I get back home. You see I-I had to pay for everything back at the restaurant."

"Why don't I but you dinner then?" His head looked straight up. "By the smells in the air, there's a burger place just around that corner." 

"Oh no. You've already been a big help. I-I can't ask you to pay for me." You stopped talking when something thick and black fell over your shoulders. It took a few seconds for you to realize that it was a giant jacket. 

"I insist." He stepped closer. Not enough to make you uncomfortable but enough to shield you from the ran with his umbrella. "You've been through quite enough tonight. The very least I can do is treat you."

"Well. .. Alright B-But nothing very expensive. I don't want to be a bother."

"If it was truly a bother I wouldn't have offered."

It was a short walk around the corner and to a small hole in the wall burger joint. You were actually shocked by him when he reached over and pushed the door open before you could grab the handle.

"After you."

"Oh..Thank you."

The inside was warm and dry and completely empty except for a surprised looking cashier in the front. Guess she wasn't expecting a literally giant and a girl looking like she literally almost drowned in a mud hole to come walking in through the door. Not that you blamed her. You looked a mess.

"Order whatever you'd like." He smiled at you. "it's my treat."

"Uh. C-Could I just get a plain cheeseburger and some fries?"

The cashier slowly nodded still staring wide eyed at you both. "Uh...D-Do you want a d-drink with that?"

"No thanks. I've had enough liquids for tonight."

"Uh sure." A quick clacking of the register later- "That'll be eight forty two please. I-Ill get your food shortly."

You bit down into the juicy stack of beef, ketchup, mustard, pickles, onions, and cheese. The heavenly taste filling your mouth like fireworks compared to the bland salad from earlier. Humming in satisfaction with every chew you took. This is definitely better than any overpriced steak! Gyomei sat down in the chair across from you looking comically too big for it. Surprised it didn't collapse under his muscle. 

"You seem to be feeling much better now."

You nodded swallowing and smiling. "Yeah! Thank you so much! I mean it. I can pay you back if you want."

He held up a large hand. "No need. I'm just happy to know that you are feeling better after everything that happened." 

"Ugh! Don't remind me. I am NEVER going on another date again!"

His head tilted but smile remained. "Were all your dates really that bad?"

You shook your head. "Actually this was the first one yet but all the dates I've been on have been. I swear ever since my prom date ghosted me for that cheerleader because I was his fourth choice." You shrugged before taking another large bite. "Most aren't really bad. Most are just really boring or uninteresting but the dates my aunt always arranged for me are always the very worst."

He hummed in genuine thought. ".. Perhaps she's not a good matchmaker."

"No! Actually she's an AMAZING matchmaker." You corrected him before he got that idea. "She matched both my parents when they were younger and my cousin with her boyfriend and practically everyone else on her street. The local shops get a lot of business from her work."

Such as your uncle who owns a catering company, the bridal dress shop, the bakery made countless wedding cakes, and you lost count of how many times her couples would go to the local restaurant for dates.

"It just seems like I have insanely bad luck with dates. My aunt tried to help but I think that only made it worse."

He hummed again. "I can't imagine how. You seem like a pleasant woman to talk with "

Despite yourself you blushed before chuckling. "Thanks. I'm glad someone thinks so."

"Are you able to get home alright? It seems to be getting later and raining."

"Huh? Oh! My friend lives nearby. He works at a pizza place. I'm sure he'll give me a ride if I ask him." Now that you had your phone, you could text him! Putting your burger down, and digging through your purse to pull out your phone and texted your friend. 

Y/n: Hey. You still at work?

Murata: Ye. Y?

Y/n: My date was a bust. Can you please pick me up?

Murata: Yeah. I'm off in 10 minutes. Brt. (Be right there.) Wru?

Y/n: Thanks. I'm at a small burger place across from a flower shop.

Murata: k. See u then.

You smiled at your phone and sighed. "My friend's coming to pick me up."

"Then I shall wait until he arrives to be sure you're safety."

"You really don't have to do that. You've done more than enough."

"I enjoy your company. So it won't be a bother." His larger smile made you flush a pink. "Tell me what happened while I was gone."

It must've been at least half an hour of you ranting to him about everything as he just patiently listened to you until Murata's beat up car pulled up just as you finished eating and honked loudly.

"That's him!"

"Then allow me to escort you to the car."

He was very polite and opened the door for you again as you both stepped out. Thankfully the car was right there so you didn't have to run through the rain. Smiling you gave Gyomei one last smile.

"Thanks for everything tonight. It was much appreciated. Maybe we ought to get together sometime so I can tell you more stories."

"How does this Saturday sound?"

You blinked taken aback. "I- What?"

He only smiled. "I'm off this Saturday and I know this cafe with good prices. If you want to of course?"

Your eyes widened. "Are you.. actually asking me on a date?"

"Certainly. If you feel comfortable with going of course."

"I don't know..My bad luck with dates have been pretty consistent."

"I think this one would be different. Never know until you give a chance."

"Well...Ok. why not? Can I get your number first?"

[fanfictiongirlie]

Twilight: Some Soulmate - Chapter Ten

Click here for masterlist

Parings: Paul Lahote x Reader

Description: Y/N a member of the Cullen family is imprinted on by one of the wolves, she is shocked, he is shocked. She is struggling with drinking animal blood over human, and he is disgusted by a vampire for a soulmate… But maybe it could work..?

Rating: General Audiences

Warnings: None

Words: 1,083

I was more nervous than I had ever been in my entire life. And I had lived through wars, and angry mobs who wanted to kill me. 

Today was the day I would be meeting the other wolves, Paul's family basically. I hadn't left Paul's since Edward and Bella's wedding night, well, I left to go pack some clothes, though at night Paul insisted I wore one of his shirts, I wore a pair of my shorts with it, and according to Paul, I looked beyond sexy. 

Paul was still sleeping when I decided to leave the bed, it took a second, because his arms were around me tight. I dressed in his bathroom quickly, wearing my 'hunting' outfit as I called it. It was a pair of black leggings and a black polo shirt. I left the bathroom to come back into the bedroom, and Paul was awake, yawning and stretching. 

"Are you ready for today?" He asked me, I nodded and leant over to kiss his cheek. 

"I'll be back soon" I smiled, sitting down to slip my shoes on. 

"Where are you going?" He asked, with a frown. 

"I need to feed" I smiled, he nodded, frowning. He hated that I had to feed on blood to live, I could feel it inside of him. I wish I could change for him. 

I reach over and kiss him again, and then I leave through the window. I ran off into the woods, I'd had to go back into my land to feed, I wandered around, until I ran into Rosalie and Emmett feeding. They had found a deer and were feeding on it. 

"Hey" I smiled

"Want some?" Emmett grinned, his entire mouth covered in blood. I laughed and crouched down with them, baring my fangs I dropped down and started drinking from the animals neck. 

Once I was done, I stood up, and looked down, I was covered in blood, feeding was a messy job. 

"Are you going back to Pauls?" Rosalie asked, I shook my head.

"Not covered in blood, he would probably run a mile" I say, they smile at me, I could feel that they felt bad for me.. Despite Paul loving me, I was still the thing he hated most in the world. 

We ran back to the house, I showered quickly and joined Esme and Carlisle in the kitchen before I left for Paul's again. I also dressed in a long pair of jeans, and a top that was long sleeved top, I wasn't sure how the other wolves would react to me sparkling. 

"I've missed you" Esme whispered as she hugged me. 

"I've missed you too" I say "I've got to go again, I'm spending the day with Paul and the wolves today" 

"Excited?" Carlisle asked, chuckling. 

I shook my head "Nervous" 

I hugged them both, and left the house and sped back to Paul's, he greeted me by hugging me tightly. I think maybe I was gone for longer than what he thought. 

"Ready love?" He asked. 

"Nope" I answered, he laughed and took my hand, and we started walking towards the beach together. Luckily it wasn't sunny today, it felt like it was going to rain. 

"What if they don't like me?" I asked "Actually they probably won't like me"

"Stop worrying love" He smiled, holding my hand tighter. 

We soon reached the beach, and the huge group of men, and a few women were gathered, looking towards us.

Paul let go of my hand and ran towards the boys, they all jumped into a hug.  I stood behind, I felt like an intruder here.. 

"Y/N come over" Emily smiled towards me, I nervously walked forward, until I standing right next to the group. They were all staring at me. 

"Hi" I mumbled, I noticed Paul looking at me with his lovely soft eyes. 

"Guys, this is Y/N, my girlfriend" He said, putting his arm around my waist. Even through my top I could feel the heat from his arm, it made me feel safe. There was a mumble of hello's. And a super happy hello from Seth, he also stepped forward and hugged me tightly, surprising me. 

"Let's play some ball!" Paul smiled, running off with the group of males, leaving me with the girls, Leah glared at me. 

"Let's sit" Emily smiled, I followed her as she walked towards a blanket laid out on the sand. 

We watched the boys play football for a little while, until Sam came over and sat with Emily hugging her. Leah left to go sit with Jacob, Embry, and Seth. 

Paul ran over and tackled me, kissing my jaw as he pinned me down, I was giggling, as I pushed back and pinned him. We stopped and sat leaning against one another. 

"Who's that little girl with..?" I didn't know the man's name.

"That's Quil, and my niece Claire" Emily explained. 

"She's Quil's imprint" Paul added. I looked at him confused, she was a little girl?

"Remember, when a wolf imprints, it isn't always romantic" Sam explained. I nodded, not quite understanding. 

"Why do wolves imprint?" I ask. 

"We're not really sure why, but our elders think we imprint with the best person to carry on our line with us" Sam explained, confusing me further. 

"Suppose I ruin that theory" I say, frowning. I took Paul's hand in mine, feeling the warmth take me, as I fiddle with his fingers. 

"Whatcha mean?" Paul asked, holding my hands tighter, I could feel his confusion towards me, he hadn't thought about it yet.. I had. If Paul wanted to be with me for the rest of his life, it would be missing many things. 

"Well I can't carry your line on Paul" I say, not looking at his face. I had always wanted children was I was little, but I'm a vampire, that wasn't a possibility. And I wouldn't feel ok adopting, because there were two routes, one I watch them die, and two I turn them into a vampire. I couldn't do that.. 

"I guess I never thought about that" He said, his hand was still linked with mine, I think it was holding onto me tighter. 

"Well you're both still early days, you shouldn't worry about that now" Emily smiled to the both of us.. I felt a dark pit inside of me. I felt like I couldn't give Paul a good life.. and he deserved a good life.. I suddenly felt lost. 

Previous Part - Next Part

[4everhyucks]

NOXIOUS — teaser

PAIRING. na jaemin x fem!reader

GENRE. smut, slight angst, college au

WORD COUNT. tba, most likely to be around 7k?

SYNOPSIS. jaemin is your best friend.. that’s what you would introduce him as. everything between the both of you changed in the blink of an eye. the once sweet and caring friend was gone, all that’s left is someone you could barely recognise.

— send in an ask or reply to be added into the taglist.

after greeting johnny, he takes a puff of his joint as he starts rambling about what happened earlier. something related to drunk haechan pushing renjun into the pool along with his girlfriend, which results in mark laughing really loudly, saying he wishes he was there to witness it in person.

while listening in on the funny stories they both had to share, you spot the boy that you have been desperately trying to search for by the stairs, avoiding your gaze when your eyes lands on him. you hesitate for a moment before leaving mark and johnny without any explanation.

now you’re confident that jaemin is in fact avoiding you because you see him walk off after making eye contact with you. you start to pick up your pace, catching up to him, grabbing onto the end of his sleeve. you say his name, loud enough for him to hear you, “please just tell me what’s wrong.. talk to me.”

“let go.” he says sternly, not even turning around to look at you.

you sigh, trudging to stand in front of him, fingers still lingering on his sleeve. “no seriously what’s your problem jaem? you’ve been avoiding me after the hangout, leaving me on seen and now you’re not even talking to me,” you glare at him, clearly annoyed by how he’s been treating you today. you didn’t want to admit it but you’re sad too, wondering what you did for him to act like this.

jaemin scoffs, “what’s my problem? i didn’t know we had a problem to begin with,” he knows he shouldn’t be giving you the silent treatment or being an asshole in general when its his own problem to begin with, it never was your fault. the way this conversation could probably end the friendship didn’t even pop up in his mind at all until he blurted, “why don’t you go back to being the whore you were huh? isn’t that all you’re good for?“

the loud party music that blasted throughout the place was all you could hear ever since you stepped in the house, but everything get blocks out when you hear those words come out of jaemin’s mouth. sometimes jaemin could be mean, very mean. but he knew his limits, your limits. there’s ringing in your ears, tears pooling your eyes. you wouldn’t categorise yourself as weak, or sensitive. but when it came down to jaemin, you always felt twice the amount of what you would normally feel. you were twice as happy when you’re having fun with him, singing karaoke, playing in the arcade, dyeing each other’s hair. you were twice as angry when he pissed you off, the multiple times he picked you up extremely late when you were in a hurry for your part-time job but then again he means so much to you, you always forgave him when he apologised.

now he had hurt you twice as much. you wonder why his words stung so much, this wasn’t the first time he called you a whore, maybe because he didn’t look like he was joking. you pray that when you lift your head up to look at him you would be met with a jaemin that’s smirking at you, telling you he was just kidding. only you don’t. you don’t see any sparkle in his eyes like they usually do, they’re dark and he’s not smiling.

you blinked the tears away, trying your best to not seem frail, going quiet before cursing at him, “…fuck you jaemin.”

[fairytalesofforever]

kept my warmth

for @grishawintergifts @jyovi-04 | kaz/inej | background jesper/wylan

Generally, it does not snow in Ketterdam. 

The city is too damp and not nearly idyllic enough for that; they get sleet, and hail, and ice that makes the streets slick and perilous, but not snow. The first winter that Inej is back on the Wraith, however, it snows not once but twice. 

The first snow is a passing nothing—the Crow Club is quiet, construction on the Six is slowed, a stubborn ache nests itself around Kaz’s knee, and the streets are covered in puddles and slush by noon. The second falls when she’s on shore at Jesper and Wylan’s. 

He almost doesn’t go. It’s a veritable blizzard and snow has piled up around the doors of the Slat and the clubs, and besides, he only tolerates the damp with his collar turned up and his scowl particularly deep. However. It’s the damp or Jesper’s sad, pleading expression, like the farm’s collie when Jordie once stepped on her tail. It’s the damp or Wylan’s resignation, ducking his head to his work, his pen scratching in the silence. It’s the damp or Inej sitting alone by a fire. 

She got back yesterday. He hasn’t seen her yet. 

So he goes. 

He walks past the shoveled front steps of the manor, around the uncleared side path that leads to the kitchen door. This is the one lock they haven’t changed on his advice, which Kaz takes as an invitation to let himself in. The ache is less nested now and more burrowed, and he shifts his weight as he coaxes the lock open, then slips inside. 

There are too many parlors in this damn house, but he makes an educated guess and finds them in the one at the base of the stairs. Jesper is in a high-backed chair with some sort of orange-bronze foliage pattern upholstered on it, the only one facing the doorway, and he whoops when he sees Kaz. “Good thing we didn’t get the whiskey out yet at eleven bells. Is that the cherry wine from the Crow Club?”

The bottle that was hanging quite obviously from Kaz’s hand vanishes as soon as the other two turn to look. “I don’t bring gifts, Jesper.”

“Right. Just your sparkling personality.” Jesper hops up from his chair and lopes over to poke at the fire, throwing up a shower of sparks. 

“Kleincanal is frozen over,” Wylan mentions. 

Jesper perks up at this, for some reason, and worse yet he’s looking at Kaz. “Decided to be snowed in with us, then?”

“Needed explosives,” Kaz says shortly, leaning on his cane and chancing a look at Inej. It’s been two months and then some since he last saw her. She must’ve visited Ravka because her nose is pierced now. A red line of firelight reflects off the thin, gilded ring. More of the light ribbons through her braid, uncoiled over one shoulder, and underpaints her gleaming lashes. They raise slowly as she looks at him, and he can see her taking him apart with her eyes just as he’s doing. Cataloguing the changes. He’s wearing the gloves now, but he’s stopped wearing them when he’s alone in his room. 

“I’m afraid they’ll take me most of the day to make,” Wylan says, twisting in his chair to look back at Kaz over his shoulder. Technically, he’s in a high-collared suit of mercher black, but the top buttons are undone and his ascot is draped over the arm of his chair. “So you’ll have to stay here until after dinner.”

Kaz narrows his eyes. “I never told you what I wanted, merchling.” 

Wylan rolls his eyes. “No. You never do.”

Tired of standing in the doorway, Kaz crosses the room. The only available piece of furniture is the ornate sofa Inej is sitting on. He wishes people would stop trying to out-scheme him, but sits there anyway. 

“You did once,” she murmurs. 

Kaz glances at her. He tries to keep the looks short. Starving men have tendencies to feast and make themselves sick. “Did what, Wraith?”

“Said what you wanted.” She’s staring into the fire, almost whispering. 

You, Inej, you. And he’s trying, for what shamefully little he has to show for it. He wonders if he should take the gloves off now, chance it, shove his hands in his pockets so no one else sees. But Jesper is still standing up by the fire, laughing with his head thrown back the way Jordie used to do. Their da called him a little rooster. 

It’s always harder with Jesper. 

So when one of the maids brings out coffee, he takes the cup in his gloved hands. He drops in several sugar cubes, disguised by sleight of hand. Inej gives him an amused glance that makes him think she could tell. Wylan finds the bottle of cherry wine that has mysteriously found its way onto the drinks cart, despite the fact that Kaz hasn’t risen from his seat. Jesper laughs again and tips his head back. Little rooster. 

Outside, the snow continues to fall. 

The follow the coffee with water and then wine, served in glasses that are each worth enough to make Kaz consider pocketing one at the end of the night. Jesper and Wylan’s joint inability to keep their hands off of each other rears its head shortly after the wine is uncorked, and they give an excuse to vanish upstairs, leaving Kaz and Inej alone in the parlor as an early dark falls. 

“Three ships burned,” she says after several breaths of silence. “It was a long chase.”

“That’s the way,” Kaz replies. The snowdrifts have piled up to the lip of the windowsill and it’s still coming down outside. The Slat may be dry, but it doesn’t keep out the chill like a roaring fire does. 

“I left one of the captains on a sandbar.” Inej continues staring into the fire. Its reflections turn her eyes molten and make her skin glow red around the edges. “He begged. They all do.”

“Should’ve done their begging sooner.”

“And you, Kaz?” Now she’s looking at him. There’s space for a person to sit between them and then some. He should move closer. But this moment feels like it’s made of glass. He won’t shatter it. 

“I don’t beg,” he says. It’s a lie. He would if she asked. But Inej knows he’s a liar and she’s sitting here anyway. She knows and she still came back. 

How many more times?

Maybe he won’t have to keep counting if he fights for this like he’s fought for everything else. Even if he comes out bloodied and bruised, bones shattered, at the end of it all, that’s the way he knows how to win. 

“That isn’t what I meant,” Inej says. 

He knows that too. He doesn’t answer, not really. But he does slip the gloves off. First one, then the other, precise and sharp with his movements—undoing the wrist clasps, pocketing the pair. He drops his bare hand to the seat cushion. It feels like velvet. He can feel it now.

Her eyes track down to it, his fingers splayed out like roots on the green cushion. 

“Renovations on the Emerald Palace,” he says. They’re both looking at his hand now. His pulse is roaring like waves in his ears. Some days Kaz wonders if this sickness won’t die till he does. 

“I haven’t seen it yet,” Inej says softly. He thinks she may have moved closer, silent as always. 

“They tore down the facade. Rollins’ legacy is ash.” This should comfort him. Toppling Pekka Rollins was meant to finally convince the warped and cracked parts of his mind that he wasn’t a helpless child anymore, that he could win even this fight. But all he can see now is his bare hand. Ripped-out roots. 

“What are you naming it?” Inej’s voice is a light from the surface. 

He hasn’t told anyone this yet. There are four people left who would know what it means, and three of them would laugh in his face. He doesn’t want to face that today. “The Silver Six.” 

Inej’s hand slides across to meet his. Their fingers interlock. She has new calluses, places where the skin has split. The roughness helps. 

“So you’re building something new,” she says. Kaz looks up at her, nodding in thought, warm to the touch. Outlined in fireglow. Alive, alive. “And what about watching it burn?”

One day he’ll have more of an answer for her. Today the best they can hope for is to be warm in the heart of a Ketterdam blizzard and to bear one another’s touch without the world spinning. To stay in the present. 

“You’re burning enough for the both of us,” he says.

At that she gives a soft laugh, or it might be the fire crackling. The heat and light are all the same. This is dangerous. Comfort is dangerous. The swelling feeling in his chest is dangerous. 

He wants to say it can’t last. But maybe he can make it last. Maybe that’s what it means to no longer be helpless. 

Her thumb brushes up and down over the top of his, the fine lines of the first knuckle. “Snow means trouble on the sea,” she says. 

“It means trouble in Ketterdam, too.” Kaz’s voice comes out particularly rough. 

“No.” Her thumb is still moving, gentle, alive, alive, alive. “I don’t mind it here.” 

[readychilledwine]

The Bard

Summary - Sometimes, it's fun to romanticize someone one else's life.

Warnings- None

Baby daddy note - I made Lizzy post this. She wrote it for fun. I felt it should still be shared.

A/n - May delete later

Masterlist

This world was nothing like the ones she had ever been in. Tall buildings stood in place of trees, hard stone lined the ground cutting and cracking her bare feet with each step. She jumped back as a car hit a puddle, preventing it from splashing her.

Checking her pockets, she sent a silent thank you for the currency hiding there. A sign from her Gods that they were indeed watching. She studied what she slowly realized was her new identification before checking the streets to see if she could navigate through where she was.

She was younger in this world. Barely 16, and for some off reason, blonde. Perhaps it was to remind her of who she was, of who she belonged to, but the reminder hurt none the less.

On further inspection, she realized this world wasn't so different from the last she was in. Just different methods of the same things. Buildings touched the clouds, technology pinged and flashed before her, and modern clothing covered the bodies of everyone around her. She paused at the sight of a bus, seeing that it read the street name of her new home on it before getting on and paying the toll in a shining silver coin.

The previous world came back to her slowly, as all memories did when she jumped. It had been a hard battle, one she suspected could not truly be over with how easily it had ended and begun.

The more she looked, the more similar this word seemed. It just lacked the magic.

She kept to herself, avoiding the gazes of humans too caught up in themselves to even truly look at her. She listened to them, hoping to find the hero she was destined to follow into battle, whose song she would sing in local bars. That was her job, of course. In every lifetime, in every world, she was a Bard. Collecting the stories of heros and their foes, playing them before a laughing crowd.

She followed countless warriors to their deaths, queens to their thrones, and kingdoms to their salvation. She was exhausted, heart aching from the most recent loss. She sighed as she got off the bus, quickly figuring out the house numbers before finding her own.

Pictures sat on the wall of her with her family. Faces that would know her, but she was going to hardly remember. Memories would have been planted into her brain, ensuring her safety as they always were.

She allowed them to guide her now, pulling her through the house until she was met with a door decored in pictures of her with friends. It did make her laugh how each world allowed her to follow a pattern. A group of women. All shining stars in their own rights. All with stories that needed to be told.

She stepped into the room, studying the furniture and shrugging off the rain-soaked clothing. A box sat on her desk, unopened and sparkling. She pulled on warm clothing before walking to it.

White ribbon, so pure and untouched, wrapped about a brown box and an envelope. She opened the envelope first, smiling at the familiarity of the handwriting in an unknown place.

My dearest Bard,

You have no hero in this world. No story to memorize. In this world, you are free to grow and live as you please. Find your own adventure, your own legendary love.

This is our thank you. A new beginning for your humble service. Just never forget who you are. When you miss home, simply look to the stars and wish.

She wiped the tears falling from her face before opening the box. Line paper sat with pencils and pens, just waiting for her to write. And so she did. She would tell the stories of the worlds she had been in one last time.

"Once upon a time,” she wrote, smiling as she did, even if the story started out of order, "in a land long since burned to ash, there lived a young princess who loved her kingdom very much.”

General Taglist:

@hnyclover @glitterypirateduck @slytherinindisguise @mischiefmanagers @bloodicka @starsinyourseyes @the-sweet-psycho @mariahoedt @rinalouu @sarawritestories @starryhiraeth @starswholistenanddreamsanswered @cumuluscranium @loneliestluvr @eternallyelvish @azrielsmate3 @daughterofthemoons-stuff @meritxellao @aria-chikage @hungryforbatboys @lilah-asteria @fandomrejects

[fandomfics]

Deserted Island

Pairing: Valkyrie x fem reader

Description: You are stranded on an island with Valkyrie. Things get spicy.

Masterlist

⚠️Warnings⚠️

18+ MDNI

mutual pining, porn with very little plot, fluff, oral, fingering, face riding/sitting, breast play,

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A few days by boat to check out a new location for the settlement, that's all this was supposed to be. When the boat broke down and you drifted to a small deserted Island, you knew you were going to have to push all those fuzzy feelings you have for your friend deep down. It's easier to deal with day to day when you can get away from her and calm your mind, distract yourself with other things.

Here your only thoughts are survival and her.

The two of you set up a cozy shelter just off the beach behind the tree line, a fire pit and SOS on the beach, found a source of fresh water, and had plenty of food for a few weeks thanks to the emergency rations that always stocked the boat. Now there wasn't as much busywork, you have nothing but time.

"Hey, come to the waterfall with me?" She asks so sweetly it's hard to deny. Her beautiful caramel skin, long braids cascading over her shoulders, soft full lips...everything about her draws you in.

"Of course." You smile

. . .

"I know I should be more terrified that we're lost on an island, who knows where, but it's kind of nice. A little vacation." You say as you slowly walk into the cool water at the base of the waterfall.

"I'm happy to be stuck with you. I've been meaning to ask you something." She follows you into the water and moves close to you.

"Yeah?" Your heart hammers in your chest.

"I have this friend, I really like her. I just have had a hard time telling her that I want more than just a friendship. You're my best friend, what do you think I should do? What if she don't like me like that?"

It stings to hear her talk about someone like that, but you're determined not to let your personal feelings affect your friendship, "Well, first of all, she'd be crazy not to like you too. Second start with why you like her. Tell me."

"She's...kind, generous, funny. When she talks about her favorite things she smiles so wide she gets this cute little dimple and a sparkle in her eyes. She's perfect." She looks down at the water and smiles. "I love her."

"Tell her that." You say trying your best to keep a smile on your own face.

"I just did." She whispers looking up into your eyes. It takes you a moment to register what she said. Your eyes go wide and your mouth hangs open, struggling to speak.

"Please say something." She pleads, her eyes gloss over, a hint of regret starting to form.

"I-I love you too." She wades over to you and wraps her arms around you, squeezing you tightly. You return the hug and stay like that for a long time, enjoying her closeness. When you finally pull back a bit you cup her face in one hand, running your thumb over her cheek gently.

"You're so beautiful." You look deep into her eyes, "I've wanted to kiss you since the very first time I laid eyes on you."

"Then do it." She smirks.

You immediately lean in, wasting no time. Her lips are just as soft as you imagined, the feel of them against your own is intoxicating. She deepens the kiss her arms wrapping around your waist as you lean into her even more.

"I've loved you for so long. I wish I had told you sooner, but I thought didn't feel the same." She says after breaking the kiss. "I belong to you, completely. I always have. Will you be mine, my lady?"

"Yes," you plant another quick kiss to her lips, "yes." You stand there in the water smiling like fools at each other, not saying a word, just enjoying the moment.

. . .

You watch the sun set, hand in hand, from the beach before returning to your shelter for the night. You lay with your back pressed against her, he arm draped over you tracing small circles on your stomach. She nuzzles her face into your neck, lips press against the sensitive skin there and your breath hitches before you let out a soft sigh. You turn to face her as she continues, working from your neck, along your jaw, your lips and back down the other side.

"I want you," she whispers in your ear breathily, "but I need to hear your say it. Tell me what you want darling."

"I want all of you, I want to worship your body, I want to touch you. I want you to touch me, I want you to show me how much you love me."

You meet for another passionate kiss, your hands traveling one anothers bodies, removing every item standing between yourselves and pleasure.

Her hands move down to your bare ass and squeeze, leaving you moaning into the kiss and pressing hard into her, willing yourself to melt together. One hand rests on her neck and the other makes it's way down to her breast, your fingers knead the flesh lightly before twisting at the nipple. She hums sending soft vibrations thrumming through you, leaving you aching for more.

She pushes you onto your back and snakes her hand down your body lightly until feel her fingers on your clit. They skillfully work you until your shaking involuntarily, moans bubbling up in your throat and seeping into her kiss.

You break away and your head tilts back allowing her to latch onto your throat again. She nips and sucks at your skin leaving a trail of marks in her wake.

"Fuck," you pant screwing your eyes shut, "it feels so god damn good." The loss of contact is sudden and your eyes shoot back open. She is on her hands and knees crawling down and pushing your legs apart so she can settle there, face in front of your dripping cunt.

"The first time I make you cum will be on my tongue, you going to be a good girl for me?" She asks, eyes full of lust.

"Yes." You nod your head vigorously.

She dives in, pulling your legs over her shoulders, allowing her to be as close as she can to your core. The tip of her tongue ghosts over your clit, causing your legs to twitch at the stimulation, her dexterous fingers travel up your inner thigh and rake through your slick before plunging into your heat.

Your hips buck up at the welcome intrusion, her thrusts are slow at first, gently building speed as her fingers curl along your sweet spot. The building pressure of your orgasm threatens to break, "I'm gonna cum!"

She continues her pace until your face denotes the silent scream of your release, your walls pulse around her fingers and coat them in your sweetness. She helps you ride it out until you still beneath her and she withdrawals. You see the strings of your cum and slick between her fingers as she separates them, licking each one clean separately.

"Sit on my face, please." You desperately want to taste her too, you want her to use you, take as much pleasure from you as she gave. She silently agrees and straddles your face, her slick covers her slit and thighs, showing you just how much she enjoyed her meal.

She hovers above you, she looks heavenly from this angle, every angle really, but this is new. You wrap your hands around her thighs and pull her down on your face fully as she lets out a yelp of surprise. It quickly turns to a moan as your tongue finds its target on her clit. You suck and nibble lightly and her hips grind down on you forcong a gutteral moan to rip from your throat and directly vibrate against the sensitive bundle of nerves.

She rocks her hips against your face taking the hint, her fingers burying themselves in your hair and gripping at the roots as soft moans fall from her open mouth. Your lost in the taste of her, the feeling of her on top of you. You don't know how long you're there before she screams out, "s-so close!"

You keep working her until you feel her shiver on top of you, releasing a steady stream of her cum on your chin. She tries to move off of you but you hold her down. You dip lower to lick her clean and allow one hand to snake further over her thigh and rest your fingers over her clit before furiously swiping it repeatedly. She squirms at the over stimulation but you keep her there until she cums again, absolutely soaking your face as the warm liquid spurts out.

She falls to your side and you both pant until you've caught your breath. "Fuck, that was incredible." You say as you pull her against you. She hums with a smile before drifting off, and you follow quickly behind.

[misc-obeyme]

Heyo, surprised but totally excited by your Cozy Comforts event

Can you do 4. Wind with Simeon, I fell in love with him again 🥰

4. Wind-Simeon

Pls lmk if I did this right, if not pls show me your preferred way for requests.

Ty

❤️❤️

Hello there my friend! You did the request perfectly!

Since the last thing I did for Simeon was hurt/comfort that featured mostly hurt, I wanted to do something fluffy this time. I hope it turned out okay! I just think this guy needs a win for once.

Thank you for participating!

COZY COMFORTS EVENT

GN!MC x Simeon with prompt wind

Warnings: none

From the moment Simeon met you, he knew it was over for him. He couldn't stop thinking about the sparkles in your eyes and the warmth of your presence. He admired your confidence when it came to being a human among demons. He loved the sound of your voice when you said his name.

It was clear that you were occupied by the others. Simeon was certain that he couldn't hope for anything more than friendship from you. Sometimes he felt a little spark of hope anyway when you looked at him. He fought it down with all that he had.

Despite his best intentions, Simeon found it almost impossible, especially when he watched you with Luke. Your endless patience, your willingness to try any pastry creation, and your gentle affection meant so much to him.

That tiny streak of angelic power from generations back felt more like the true essence of your being to him. It resonated between you, even if you didn't quite realize it.

Simeon cherished the rare moments when he had you all to himself. So he was pleased when he was able to ask you to accompany him to a new cafe that had recently opened. The two of you enjoyed each other's company along with some delicious drinks. It was a blissful, peaceful time that Simeon wished would never end.

Inevitably, though, he found himself walking you back to the House of Lamentation.

It was a cold and blustery day. You were bundled in a coat and scarf. You looked so cute with your slightly flushed cheeks, tinged from the chill of the wind.

It was a sweet feeling to be so close to you. Simeon desperately wanted to reach out and take your hand, but he held back.

He was shocked when he felt your warm fingers close around his. A swirl of butterflies fluttered through his stomach and Simeon almost laughed. When was the last time he had felt something like that? And from such a simple touch.

The two of you reached the House of Lamentation faster than he would have liked. He tried not to seem reluctant about letting go of your hand.

You smiled as you stood on the path to the house. "I had a nice time today," you said.

There was something in your voice that he hadn't heard before. Something deep and thoughtful, like you had more to say, but you didn't know how to say it.

"So did I, MC," Simeon replied in his usual way, keeping his own smile intact.

The wind that had been blowing through the Devildom all day decided to kick up right at that moment. It pressed itself against both of your bodies, your hair streaming off in one direction, leaves cascading from the nearby trees in the garden.

When it died again, Simeon said, "Hold on, MC."

You stilled as he took several steps toward you, stopping so close he could feel the warmth of your body against his, even though you weren't touching.

Simeon reached out toward your face, his hand brushing against your cheek as he picked a leaf off of your scarf. He couldn't help watching your wide eyes, meeting them directly as he let his fingers linger against your skin.

"You have one, too," you said. You reached up and ran your fingers through his hair.

Simeon had to suppress a shiver at the feeling of your hand in his hair. He felt almost bereft when you pulled it back, a leaf now clutched between your fingers.

"Thank you," Simeon managed to say, but he was sure you could hear the desperation in his voice.

Your smile was brilliant. You leaned forward and kissed his cheek before turning away to go into the House of Lamentation. You paused at the door, turning around to wave goodbye at him before going inside.

The hope that flared in Simeon's heart filled him with a special happiness. As he started on his way back to Purgatory Hall, he sent a silent thank you to the still blustering wind.

cozy comforts | masterlist | Thank you for reading!

[driftward]

Title: FFXIV Write 2024 - 1. Steer Characters: Rating: Teen Summary: Is reality destiny? Notes: None

Infinite possibilities, in infinite permutations.

Massive concentric rings surrounded her, golden with symbols inscribed upon them, each rotating and spinning on its own axis, yet sharing space and movement with the others. Spheres floated among and between them, drifting, mapping paths, charting probabilities, a guide to every possibility in every permutation. A guide not to reality, but to infinities.

That was the easy part.

Figuring out how to direct it, that was the hard part.

Zoissette sighed, looking over her calculations. She touched a hand to the central control dais, and uploaded her latest work. Immediately the air above it lit up, as thread paths traced through time, probabilities sparkling like stars in their wake, starting from nothing and expanding out, some collapsing again.

She sighed again, watching as it ran. Already too long.

"I thought I might find you here."

Zoissette turned, to see Y'shtola floating effortlessly into the space, drifting downward, carefully avoiding the rings as they spun and the spheres as they orbited. She touched down gently, and walked forward, looking up to see the results of Zoissette's latest calculation.

Zoissette turned to face her, sagging against the control dais, and smiled tiredly at her. She may have been exhausted, but Y'shtola was ever prim, proper, the very image of a cultured and well put together scientist.

She herself probably looked a mess right this moment. But, they took turns, didn't they? Zoissette had fond memories of tucking a blanket around Y'shtola's shoulders as she drooled slightly on notes still unfinished and passages yet to be read.

Y'shtola lifted a hand into the twinkling cloud of computation, disrupting it as she pointed at the cluster of end states. "These should be highlighted, should they not?"

"Yes, I know, I know," groaned Zoissette, wiping her hand across the control surface and erasing the trace. "I am testing new axiom paths with my predictor."

"You might come to bed. A well rested mind would be better able to handle these puzzles you set yourself to, I would think."

Zoissette sat back, slouching in her chair, leaning her head back and closing her eyes. She felt warm hands on her shoulders, and thumbs begin to press into her back. "I still cannot make an algorithm that can predict which threads will self sustain and which will fail early. And if I run the simulations, sometimes I can watch as threads fail, but not see how."

Y'shtola fingers gripped the top of her shoulders, and Zoissette clenched her teeth and hissed gently as a thumb found a particularly knotted sore spot.

"I mean, I know how to make threads that I know for certain will terminate and how, but... there seems hardly any point to trying to run those. If the outcome is already predetermined, we do not learn anything from it that we cannot learn just from looking at it."

"If this were easy, we would not have a star mathematician working so diligently on it."

"Nor wasting your time and talents."

"I am here because I wish to be. You know this well."

"I know."

Y'shtola's fingers stopped, and Zoissette felt a kiss on her forehead, and she smiled.

"Alright," said Zoissette, sitting up. "You have convinced me."

"Ah, if only 'twas always so simple."

"I am not that bad."

"Not always."

Zoissette just huffed, as she put both hands on the control surface, and pushed it down gently. The rings around her slowed, the spheres gradually halting their orbits. She got up, and let Y'shtola take her hand, and they both began to walk to the edge of the platform, but Zoissette stopped, to look back.

"Something the matter?" asked Yshtola.

"What if we are the result of a machine like this?"

"This again? You worry overmuch about that."

"Ryss seems to think it likely."

"Ryssthota is also like to use her time on the machine tomorrow to see if she can generate threads that will combine with other threads to create a thread-destroying cataclysmic combination or some other such nonsense. She sees further than most, but as a result, does not always fully think through the consequences of the same."

"I just... I guess I am just wondering."

Zoissette looked down at Y'shtola's hand in hers. "If we are the result of such a machine, are we one of the predetermined threads? Or are we in one of the threads, running wild and free, to who knows what destiny?"

Y'shtola looked up at Zoissette, and smiled. She reached up, standing on her toes, to cup a hand to Zoissette's cheek, and look deep into her eyes.

"Know this," she said. "I believe full heartedly that whatever has happened to us, we chose this. I chose this. I fought for this. I fought for you, to have you at my side and to be by yours. What matters the opinion of destiny? Gravity seemed inevitable, too, until our people touched the stars."

Her eyes wrinkled with a touch of mischievousness. "As though any prediction could defy my will."

Zoissette reached up a hand, and touched Y'shtola's hand, and smiled back, tiredly. "Awfully sentimental of you."

"Perhaps. You do bring out the best in me, after all."

They lingered, until the moment passed. And then they began to walk together again, hand in hand, towards the edge of the platform, to their beds, to their rest.

"I suppose," said Zoissette, "I hope that in any thread where there is a recognizable you, and someone that is a recognizable me... I hope we always at least find one another."

"Gravity may not be inevitable," said Y'shtola, "But it pulls nonetheless. I hope for much the same."

"Is that not destiny?" asked Zoissette.

Y'shtola just smiled as they vanished off the edge of the platform, passing into the space beyond.

"Inevitability need not be destiny," she said. "I shall always chart mine own course."

In the space of the machine beyond the edge of reality, there was silence.

[succumbtothenightmare]

Hi friend! Can we get a jesse hc of friends to lovers? Maybe childhood best friends or just besties in general haha before he realizes feelings and admits them?

@blueskylinesx @missduffsblog @hayleylatour @sleepyomens @loeytuan98 @artificialbreezy @marvelousmal @bngurngheart @lma1986 @dsireland86 @wild-child-7747 @calleyx13 @illmakeyousaywow @jaded-and-hollow-souls @concreteemo @cookiesupplier @thatchickwiththecamera @whenthesummerdies @lookwhatitcost @klutzy-kay24 @tashka @xxkittenkissesxx @collidewiththesavannah @xserena-13 @cncohshit

This feeling gripped Jesse's heart in such a vice grip it made him let out a broken breath. Seeing you and your date talk all night, secluded in a corner of his backyard.

It was the annual ERRA/BO/Chief BBQ at his place and you wanted to bring a date. He wanted to say no but you were his best friend, he couldn't deny you that.

Even if he was in love with you.

Jesse loved you from the moment you walked into his life six years ago. It only took him until recently to realize it. Seeing you dating someone else woke up those feelings that were long hidden.

Noah stood next to Jesse in the backyard, watching him as he watched you and your date.

"Why don't you tell her how you feel?" Noah asked.

Jesse shook his head. "She doesn't feel the same."

Noah rolled his eyes, knowing full well that you did in fact feel the same. You had plenty of conversations with Noah about how much you loved Jesse but didn't want to risk the friendship in case he didn't feel the same.

"The miscommunication between you two is exhausting," Noah sighed while pinching his eyes shut.

Jesse snorted. "Like you're the one to talk."

Suddenly his eyes were back on you when he saw your date lean in for a kiss, one you weren't expecting and seemed uncomfortable with.

"Fuck this," Jesse grumbled before marching over to the other end of the backyard where you were trying to step away from your date.

The second your eyes landed on your best friend, your eyes sparkled and you breathed in relief.

"Hey, sweetheart. Can you help me with something?" He asked.

Your heart fluttered at hearing your nickname and immediately you nodded.

"I'll talk to you later," you forced a smile to your date before allowing Jesse to lead you into the quiet house.

"Are you alright?" He asked.

You gazed up at him and nodded. "I don't know why I thought it would be a great idea to bring a date tonight. I guess I just wanted to try and forget-."

Jesse took a step towards you, enclosing you against the counter. "Forget what?"

His energy radiated off onto you and you swore you could see the way his breath caught in his throat as he awaited your answer. His hair had been cut short to the sides and you secretly wished you could run your hands through his curls. Those dark eyes gazed at you through his round glasses and you felt the words stumble past your lips without a second thought.

"Forget that you don't feel the same way," you whispered.

He made a low noise in the back of his throat before tiling your head back. "I'm sorry I ever made you feel that way."

Before your mind could register what he meant, you felt his soft lips against yours and you molded into his chest. His arms snaked around your bag, locking you into place so you couldn't move.

You didn't. You wanted to stay right here for the rest of the night.

His tongue brushed along your bottom lip, a silent way to ask for entry which you accepted and felt him deepen the kiss.

"I love you, Y/N," he admitted while resting his forehead against yours.

You gently kissed the tip of his nose. "I love you too, Jesse."

[be-my-ally]

"...Elvis has left for Graceland."

This is, uh, what I did with some *generally helpful information* about mirrors in Graceland (although tbh there's not even that many references to them here) and bde withdrawals. I lied - I thought my empty promises wip would be out first, but when inspiration hits and a shorter fic just pops out of your fingers - and the alternative is the dreaded editing, you end up with this instead! Enjoy my lovelies - this is also a little (ok a lot) for @thatbanditqueen - enjoy the references to red Graceland, the correct suit for the exact date, and even his exact upper of choice in spring summer ’74! Oh! and the dress pictured below is YSL from 1973 xx (and also @ellie-24, and @whositmcwhatsit for encouraging me! Surprise! We were discussing films and I was writing this!)

summary: you’re elvis’ girlfriend circa ’74, and have a lot of fun congratulating him after his recorded show in Memphis. 

pairing: afab!reader x elvis (of the big daddy flavour)

warnings: 18+, thigh-riding, the ripping of an expensive rental dress, big daddy elvis in all his big daddy-ness, yet again - reader sucks his tits idk man I didn’t think was gonna be a kink for me but clearly it is, v. minor references to his drug abuse, p in v sex, uhhhh…. Oh mirrors! I know Graceland wasn’t as, uh, dirty as Hillcrest but I think he still had enough fun there, Elvis keeps his jumpsuit on. this is essentially unedited so pls ignore any typos - I'll give it a look over in the morning!

wc: 4.1k - We did it baby! Concise smut!!

March 20th 1974 - Mid-South Coliseum Memphis

“…Elvis has left for Graceland.” 

You’re delayed in leaving - a problem with the valet, or the sound, or something that someone has to sort out - so despite the fact that Elvis himself has left you are stood, waiting, with a couple of the mafia boys for the other car to be brought around. Undoubtedly to be stuck in the hordes of fans and traffic on the way out. You hated being stood exposed like this, it made you feel like people’s wandering glances weren’t just sizing up the King’s new girlfriend, but laughing at you - at how you’re no more special than the rest of them. Stood in much the same way they all were. Left behind while he was whisked away to his palace. 

The temperature had dropped since you’d arrived here earlier, and you wished you’d thought to bring a jacket but the weather was just starting to warm up and you’d been thrilled to be able to wear a little strappy number - a little part of you, or maybe a large part, wanting to show off a little for the home crowd. Silver and diamanté straps that held up the draping gently twisted fabric that flowed in a column, brushing your curves - it was, expensive and flashy in a subtle way - it was almost too much for the concert. But, as always, you’d been outshined by Elvis’ own crystals - the stark white of his sparkling jumpsuit brighter than any of the stage lights. You’d worn it mostly for him though, despite the fact that he’d barely glanced at you in it.

By the time you’re all loaded into the car, heading the barely ten miles towards Graceland, the novelty of passing down Elvis Presley Boulevard from an Elvis Presley concert to go and see Elvis Presley still hadn’t waned. You smile a little at yourself and you can feel Charlie laughing from the other side of the backseat of the car, “God makes me laugh every time I see that damn sign - as if he needed a bigger head!” You laugh with him, but you can hear the affection in his voice - as if you were being let in to a joke of the inner circle; the joke about his large head being simultaneously true but also at odds with his nerves mere hours ago. Despite your traffic fears you make quick progress and it’s mere minutes before you’re pulling up to the drive, parting the crowd and through the gates. You’re quick out of the car but you’re surprised not to see or hear him when you walk through the front door, until Billy, coming around the corner, sees you and points upstairs. You nod and thank him but, not seeing the point in rushing if he’d gone to bed, you head to the kitchen - fetching a drink and take your time finishing it. You start to slowly make your way up the main staircase, stopping to check yourself out in the large mirror on the wall, reapplying a little lipstick just in case he was awake. 

When you walk in, he’s pacing at the bottom of his bed, still in the sweaty white jumpsuit, walking back and forth, he gestures past his padded doors, towards the landing and the huge mirrors he’d recently had installed on the ceiling to match those on the walls. “Saw you take your time, something more important than me baby?” You frown, shaking your head - you forget, when at Graceland, that his eyes are everywhere; even as much as in Hillcrest. 

“Course not babe, of course not!” He tuts, but you’d not been expected him to look so awake so you hadn’t thought you’d had to rush up to him; despite your desire to see him, and congratulate him on the show. So you have no words to your defence - you can’t exactly tell him you expected he’d be half out of it by now. You glance over at the gold foiled nightstand on his side - the orange bottle for his dexedrine open and on display. He follows your gaze, his own eyes hardening a little, tiny little lines forming on the edge of his still-linered lids. Neither of you mention his sudden burst of energy and where it came from. He turns back to you, hands on his hips. It draws your attention to his outfit. He’d not even changed from his stage jumpsuit - a rarity since he was almost always in his robe by the time he’d passed through his bedroom doors. It strangely matches well in the dark, red, interior of the room - red crystals of the fire suit almost the exact colour of the carpet. But it also, oddly, made him stand out even more - the crystals seeming like they were everywhere, like he was made to be stood in this room; reflecting across the mirrors, and emphasising the white of the jumpsuit - his skin jumping out. The zipper was low, as it had been all night and you rake your eyes over his exposed skin. He’d been exceptionally physical tonight, the showmanship spectacular and it was displayed in his chest and stomach shimmering with his still drying sweat. You feel yourself growing wet. 

“Shut the door honey,” You do as you’re told, he’s gruff, almost as if he feels he should be apologetic but would never admit it, “Not had time lately have we, huh, baby?” You shake your head in response, uncertain what to say -  you hadn’t, he’d been so busy worrying about these concerts, and then afterwards about the live recording - about the intricacies of the sound, of how the crowd noise will be isolated. It meant that as excited as you were to see him perform in Memphis, in his home - you were more excited to get past it to the month long break he was going to have. But you also knew how privileged you were to get any time with him at all, and you knew how quickly his moods changed lately. Unwilling to say anything that might make him reconsider his plans and head back downstairs, leave you alone, waiting and wanting while he entertained. 

“Well. We’re here now.” He moves over to you, determinedly catching you in a kiss. You squirm a little, eyes closed, trying to will away the thought that you weren’t the only woman he’d kissed this evening, force away the images of him with the girls in the front row. There was fewer than normal, chaste pecks on the cheek - he didn’t want to mess up the recording after all. But still, you’d felt the envy growing in you, jealousy burning through your veins. He makes you forget this though, as he rubs his hands down your arms, warming where they’d already grown cold in the frigid air of his bedroom and his tongue slips deeper into you. You can taste the gatorade of the night, mixed with the sparkling water he’d probably downed along with his uppers - the faint tingle of the carbon dioxide still present. He kisses down your cheek to your throat, leaving traces of your freshly applied lipstick from your own lips before he turns you around, facing the headboard, and walks you towards the bed - your legs bump against the end. He tugs at the straps that cross on your back, impatient. You wince, trying to stop him; 

“Elvis, baby, it’s a - a rental, gotta be careful, it’s one of a kind -“ 

“Fuckin’ fancy shit - get it off then, fuckin’ hate when you don’t just let me buy you -”  Despite his harsh words he kisses across your shoulder in between his words. You cut him off, 

“It’s not for sale El, so you couldn’t have even -“ 

“You tellin’ me what I can or can’t do now mama?” He toys with the strap, you think fast trying to stop what you’re sure is coming - 

“El, seriously - I didn’t mean it like that I just - ah!” He pulls the chain clean off - square crystals spilling over the bed. 

“Fuck - E!” He yanks the other one, this time accompanied by a little tearing noise as the seam rips from the back. Before you have time to protest any longer he’s pushing down the twisted top, your breasts popping out. He grabs your chin, pointing it towards the back of the bed - where the large mirror hangs - you can see yourself reflecting from the mirrors on the other walls too - the glances of different angles almost overwhelming. 

“Look at yourself.” He maintains his grip on your chin while palming one of his simultaneously thick but still sleek hands across your boob. He twists a nipple as you gasp, pulling it out a little. He pushes you up with his other hand, forcing you to balance on your knees on the end the bed, his own thigh coming in between to force them further apart and support some of your weight as you sink down a little. He hikes the long length of the dress up, grabbing your wrist and forcing you to hold it up yourself although the maxi-skirt still drapes and covers your modesty. He lets go of your face, pulling you back against him harder with both hands, and his stomach, more pronounced than before, bumps against your back. You stare, mouth open, as you watch his large hands span across your waist. His head is bent over into the crook of your neck, sucking a bruise onto the dip of your collarbone, his sweaty, fluffy, hair tickling your chin. He moves his leg a little, bending his knee onto the bed too, forcing it further into your crotch, allowing you to grind down on him. 

He pushes you down himself, hands on your hip bones and the soft flesh there, moving you in little circles feeling you rub against him. He suddenly, frantically, pushes the dress up further - exposing you entirely. You gasp, as he unveils your little secret of the night - not only had you not bothered with a bra - the dress being far too revealing for it, but the soft slippy fabric had clung to whatever underwear you had tried, ultimately leaving you to go commando for the night as well. He grunts against your skin, looking at you in the mirror over your shoulder, 

“You been like that all night, honey?” He traces a finger over the undercurve of the swell of your tummy, tickling a little, as he rotates it in little circles - teasing you in its pattern that’s reminiscent of how he often touches you. 

“Ye-es, they - they showed through,” He tucks your ass into him, his belt digging into you, and preoccupies himself with stroking a finger the length of your vulva, his thigh slightly getting in the way until you push yourself up a little more. 

“Surprised you ain’t already ruined that dress, how wet you are - bet you were drippin’ all over the place. Watching me.” He presses a finger into you, just the very tip, gently, his other hand coming back up to your nipple - you clutch at his arms; “Weren’t you?” 

“Probably, probably E - can’t help it around you, not when you’re performin’ looking so good -” He laughs, pulling his finger away, crooking it as he pulls it up - knocking one of his huge rings against your clit. He draws you back - his body moving with his laugh causing you to bounce you on his thigh. You let out a gasp that quickly turns to a moan, 

“You think I look good darling?” You meet his eyes in the mirror, they’re bright and impish; a smug little smile on his face. Any other time you might have teased him - but not today. Not with your angle changing slightly when he pushes you forwards a little, his broad, large thigh pressing firmly into you again, you can feel your labia spreading against his jumpsuit, tight weave of the dancer’s gabardine rubbing against you. You bob your head quickly; 

 “Of course, of course E - you look, looked amazing; don’t want you to take it off.” He laughs, as if you’ve given him an idea - or perhaps confirmed something he thought before, 

“Well, don’t be shy - prove it to me baby.” You gape at him, trying to twist around to do something - although you’re not sure what, to prove it to him, but he stills you with both hands holding you in place. Before he lifts you, manhandling you where he wants you as he pulls you off of him - moving to sit down on the fluffy circular chair in the corner, he keeps a hold of you as he goes, but allows you to turn, before yanking you back onto his lap. Resting your legs on either side of one of his thighs. You can feel the crystals on your inner thighs, rubbing against you and you’re sure you’re gonna have a weird form of beard-burn by the time you get up, but you don’t let it stop you and you rock back and forth on him. He takes a second to strip your dress completely off, leaving you completely nude where before your belly button had been afforded a little modesty but nowhere else and you brace yourself with hands on his shoulders to arch your back, pushing your tits out and grind down on him.

“That’s it baby, show me how much you love this ‘suit, want you to get me all wet darling, not letting you up till there’s a spot on me,” You can feel your heat rising just from his words, and the rough material under you provides just enough friction for you to feel yourself getting close. 

He pulls you closer to him, so that you’re rocking your body practically into his crotch, and the movement is pulling the jumpsuit off of his chest a little, the tiniest hint of a nipple peeking out. You lean forward, rocking against him and shifting your balance with your arms around his neck for stability. You can feel every part of the chest section of the jumpsuit rubbing against your skin, pinkening it with the feel of the stones but, as your own nipple catches between a group of them with a little prickle of pain, you can’t help but moan, it only adding to to your building pleasure. He lets out his own little grunt as you move your head to his neck - causing him to fall back against the chair further. You’re practically horizontal now, although his feet remain on the floor and it puts your cheek in contact with his chest. You nuzzle into him, unable to resist licking when he’s so close - so shiny, so tempting. He bucks his hips as you do as if you’ve unlocked a hidden sensitivity of his. It only spurs you on more, moving to suckle on his little pink nipple, one of your hands coming away from his neck to stroke his chest hair. You only realise you’d zoned everything but his chest out when you feel a hand in your hair, pulling your head back and you suddenly realise he’s been talking, babbling at you, the whole time but you’d had such a single-minded focus you’d not even noticed. 

“Lord baby, you gots a hot little mouth, hot fucking little lips. God baby, your tongue, where’d you learn to do that, huh? Liable to make a man cream his pants like that, honey, and wouldn’t that be a waste?” He strokes your face and you smile, looking up at him, as he lets go of your hair and rubs his hands down your sides again. It’s only a moment later when he’s hauling you off of him, struggling to his feet. You stand there, flushed but growing colder in the frigid air with every moment that passes without being pressed against his burning body heat, your nipples pebbling. You watch as he surveys the room for a moment, his own arousal more than a little apparent in the stretchy fabric of the jumpsuit - before sighing, 

“Simple’s the best. Right honey?” 

“Sure, I’m - I’m sure that’s right El,” You agree, but not really knowing what you’re answering and he catches you by the arm pushing you backwards onto the bed, you gasp and scrabble backwards at his insistent pushing. A moment later you understand as he’s pulling the belt off, unzipping himself finally and, - oh, he’s not taking it off, he’s just unzipping the suit all the way, pulling his cock out. You groan, head falling back against the mountain of pillows. You’d never, never have mentioned how much you wanted this, to have his thick powerful body still encased in his jumpsuit as he fucks you. His magnetism, the sexual energy from the concert and his presence on the stage being impressed upon you with every brush of your naked body against the fabric - against the rhinestones. 

He pulls himself back a little before slipping a finger into you, ring bumping against your folds, it sinks in easily - you’re already so ready, just from bouncing on his thigh, and to be honest you’d been wet enough from the moment Also Sprach Zarathustra had turned into See See Rider. He hums, pleased that you’re soaking for him, and he doesn’t wipe off his finger before pushing it into your mouth, 

“That’s it baby, suck it off, taste yourself on me,” You obediently do as he says, sucking down - hollowing your cheeks, eyes wide. He pulls it out to balance himself on one hand, grasping his cock in the other, pumping it a couple times before lining himself up with your entrance. 

“Better be ready for me honey - ‘cause I’m sure as hell ready to sink into your tight little cunt.” You gasp as he doesn’t even wait for a reply, pushing himself into you. He’s pressing into you from all angles as you slowly adjust to his length within you, his soft tummy - crystals pressing into you from above, his musky chest just below your eye-line and his arm bracketing you into him from the other side of your neck. He stills for a second, before leaping into motion, struggling slightly to move himself more upright, keeping himself in you and pulling you close against him with a hold on your hips. You’re on your back while he kneels up now, allowing him to lift your butt a little, and thrust a little deeper. You squirm on him, little moans and gasps being released - you’ve not yet been able to get past having had the bedroom next to your parents growing up. He grabs your hips now, rings pressing in tight, to move your body onto him as he pumps into you. He’s talking the whole time - the man’s unable to stay quiet any moment he’s awake - 

“Oh god darling, never gonna be able to wear this suit ‘gain, Lord how’re you, so -” He thrusts in, hard, to punctuate his next sentence - “so - fucking - tight.” His breathing is already growing heavier, “How’re you so goddamn tight - like Lil’ Elvis is caught in a - ah - fucking vice. God, look at you.” 

You look up at him, fresh sweat starting to form at his chest and brow, he’s not even looking at you though, and you wonder who that last comment had been aimed at as he’s staring at his own reflection in the mirror. You’re glad though, when he smiles - eyes bright when he does glance back at you; whatever he’d seen had clearly cheered him up and out of his self-conscious mood, enough to encourage a sudden burst of energy again. He drags you back, lifting his own hips enough to spear into you at just the right angle. As he hits that perfect spot inside of you repeatedly he moves his hand from where it was still clutching your hip to stroke down across your mound, it’s a slightly awkward angle but he manages to swipe his thumb perfectly across your clit - your leg jerking, and your back arching in response. 

“Oh - Elvis, oh god, I’m so fucking close - babe you gotta, just keep -” He grunts above you, his thumb keeping pace, and his cock thrusting in at the same speed. It’s mere seconds, 

“Fuck - baby, you’re squeezin’ ‘round me so fuckin’ ti-ght, that’s a good fucking girl, my good girl.” Before it’s enough to send you over the edge, clenching down on him and shuddering, your mouth agape and your eyes shuttering closed as the waves of your orgasm crash over you. 

“Oh, oh - god, Elvis -” His pace changes, and it drags you back from floating, as he just goes for it at a rapid pace, fingernails clawing at your skin, before his hips are stuttering and he’s quickly pulling out as the first streaks of his ejaculate shoot across your pussy, he pulls himself up, pumping it across your tummy, and you moan at the sight - him looking goddamn regal - sparkling in the dim light as he shoots across you. He moves one of his hands to rub it over you, between your folds and over your stomach -  into your belly button. Before he collapses on top of you,  practically smothering you, in an effort to reach your mouth to kiss you - your legs are so tired and tense but you can just about lift them up to come around to grasp at him, barely noticing the now-familiar scratch of the rhinestones, locking your ankles over his back. You’re probably smearing cum all over the jumpsuit but you don’t care - too desperate to feel him close to you. You lock lips for a long moment, letting him take whatever he wants, underneath him like this it’s difficult to feel anything but utterly submissive and at his mercy. Your lips are bitten and raw by the time he pulls away and rolls off of you, and you can’t do anything but lie there, your chest heaving as you try to catch your breath. You look over at him, and he’s in practically the exact same position, soft matted chest hair wet with sweat and his little rounded tummy poking out of the unzipped suit with his now soft cock resting outside too, but smiling up at the ceiling - 

“Wish I still had my scarf - wouldn’t even have to get up to find something to wipe us down with,” You laugh with him, just barely getting the effort yourself to stand, on shaky legs, you’re sweaty and damp yourself and you can’t imagine how he feels - going straight into this after a two hour long concert, so you chivvy him up, 

“C’mon then El, I’ll run us a bath - we can get all clean together,” He hums, sounding as if he’s close to his come down already, 

“ ’S-ok little one, I can - just need a, a, wipe down.” You frown, you like his musk but no way in hell are you getting back into bed with him like this, but you’re not quite sure how to say it without starting an argument, when strangely, for once - Elvis seems to sense your reluctance, “Alright, alright, fine. But only if I get you all wet and warm in my lap,” he laughs to himself again, “well - warm and wet again - huh, darlin’,” You giggle with him, walking gingerly to put the bath on, and as you stand up he’s already stood behind you - crowding you against the dark bathroom wall, stroking your sides with his thick fingers, he tips your chin up to look you right in the eyes - “Thank you for that though little one, needed - needed to see how much you like me, see me again, been - I’ve been so distracted I ain’t had chance to even look at myself in weeks.” You smile, 

“Of course Elvis, I’m all yours - anytime.” You pause, wondering if you should mention it, “Seriously though - we’re gonna have to get Bill or Ciro -  someone’s gotta fix that dress,” He just laughs at you, shaking his head - 

“Honey, I told you - I’ll just buy it.”

[lilacliquors]

pairing: bi-han (mk1) x reader

word count: 1092

notes: on the fourth day of ficmas, lilacliquors gave to me ... bi-han giving his partner what they've always dreamed!

it had been years since your last white christmas. in fact, you couldn't remember the last time there was snow on the holiday. the past few years, it had been too warm for snow, and while you still enjoyed the holiday, it was pretty clear you missed the chill and the beauty of snow.

you missed the way lights twinkled as snowflakes drifted down, the way the world felt quiet and still. You longed for the days where you could go out and walk, the snowflakes catching in your hair while you felt like you were in a perfectly timed music video or scene from a christmas movie. it was the little things, and your husband knew this.

bi-han had always been an attentive lover. he knew every little thing about you, and even when you swore he wasn’t paying attention, he was listening. but this time, you didn’t need to say a word. he saw the way you gazed up at the blue cloudless skies, a brief look of disappointment on your face, or how your eyes lit up on chilly, gray days, when the air smelled like it could snow any minute, but it never came. and this year, he didn’t want to see the hope flicker from your face again. he didn’t think he could stand it. he loved to see your smile, hear your laugh, see that sparkle in your eye.

he was going to bring you a white christmas.

you knew he had control over ice, and you knew he was a master cryomancer. but never did you ask him to try anything. you didn’t want to be selfish, or make him think you saw his abilities as something to take advantage of. sure, if you had a fever, he was right beside you, using a hand to keep your face cool, but he did that on his own. he was already generous enough, you never wanted to push it.

on christmas eve, you were busy making sure everything was set for the next day. you would be hosting his brothers and their families, a new tradition since their reconciliation, and you couldn’t wait to see everyone. just like the previous year, the skies were gray, and there was a smell of snow in the air, but you didn’t dare get your hopes up. as you were washing your nice dishes, bi-han came into the kitchen, and he wrapped his arms around you from behind.

“you should take a break,” he murmured, his deep voice comforting to your ears.

“in a little bit. i have a few more plates to clean. i can’t wait to see everyone again. we haven’t seen kauai liang and harumi since their daughter was born,” you replied.

“and i hear she’s doing well. finally sleeping through the night.”

you laughed and leaned against him, tilting your head to kiss his jaw gently. he smiled, a sight you had always adored, and you felt him squeeze you as he kissed the back of your head.

“don’t stay up too late, my love. i miss you when you’re not beside me,” he mumbled against your hair. then he let go, and you heard him retreat to your bedroom. you felt warmer than ever, and the smile on your face was radiant. he had always been so affectionate with you, the exact opposite of the chilly demeanor he held with almost everyone else. and you felt honored to see this side of him.

not long after, you were soon settled in bed beside him, the room dark aside from the faint glow of the lights that decked your home. you were in his arms, gazing outside, and he heard a soft sigh leave your lips.

“is everything all right?” you heard him whisper.

“mhm. i just wish it would snow, that’s all. i’d love to have just one more white christmas, like the ones i used to know,” you whispered back.

“perhaps one day, my love. the world is full of surprises.”

“that it is. well, i won’t hold my breath. anyways, good night, my darling,” you murmured, closing your eyes with a hum. you felt his lips on the top of your head, and you smiled softly, hearing him whisper a ‘good night’ back before you dozed off.

the following morning, you woke up alone in your bed. and something felt … different. you blinked a few times as you sat up, rubbing your eyes, and you noticed that the window was strangely fogged up. you got up from bed and felt a chill in the air, so you grabbed your robe and slipped it on. you walked to the window, and when you peered outside, you gasped audibly and covered your mouth with your hand.

outside was covered in a blanket of pure white snow, with some still falling gently as your lights outside glimmered. it was white as far as the eye could see, and you felt tears welling in your eyes. this was no work of nature, it couldn’t have been. everything was just too perfect. it was only when you felt a pair of cold hands on your shoulders did it finally all connect in your mind.

“merry christmas, angel,” bi-han whispered, and you turned to face him, a smile on your lips, though your bottom lip trembled.

“bi-han, did you—?”

“of course. you’ve been deprived of a simple pleasure for far too long. so why wouldn’t i provide it for you?”

you wrapped your arms around him in a tight hug, and you felt him squeeze you back, holding you close to his body. you sniffled quietly, and his hand rubbed soothing circles into your back.

“you have no idea how much this means to me,” you whispered, and you felt his chest vibrate as he hummed.

“perhaps not. but i know it makes you happy, and that’s what makes it all worth it. shall we go and enjoy it for a bit before we exchange gifts?” he asked, and you looked up at him with a warm smile.

“nothing would make me happier. but this is a gift enough. nothing i give you could ever compare,” you said softly.

“my love, you are the greatest gift i could ever receive, and i would move mountains to see you this happy. now, let’s go enjoy ourselves before the day gets away from us.”

he took your hand, and you followed him out into the winter wonderland you’d been dreaming of for so long, feeling lighter than you ever had.

[boosmidnighthour]

Uh, happy pride month, by the way! I wish I was a faster writer or just planned things in advance; I don't have any fics that celebrate the month.

Instead, have another WIP before the month ends.

Fandom: Ninjago Working Title: Possession/Disbelief (definitely needs a different name whenever I actually post it) Rating: General

◇◇◇

Cole sighed as he made it over the last ledge. It felt good to be solid again. The gravel and dirt felt almost heavenly against his scraped palms. He had missed it all too much. He should really take up rock climbing again-

“Ugh, finally!” Jay started from where he was with his dragon. “Y'know, I was supposed to tag along with you, not the other way around…”

“What? I had to climb the mountain properly this time. It felt almost disrespectful not to,” he argued with a roll of his eyes, lifting himself up the rest of the way and dusting his hands off. “Plus, now that I'm no longer a ghost, I have to treat my body right.”

“You nearly ate an entire cake as soon as Zane pulled it out of the oven.”

“Treating my body right includes indulging in my ignored sweet tooth. And it smelled delicious; if Zane had brought anything else out, I would've eaten it just the same. His cooking is near godly.”

“Whatever you say, man,” he huffed. Then he clapped to get them both back on track. “Anyway, you're here to see into your future. Get to it. It's getting dark, and when it gets dark, it gets cold. I'd prefer to be in bed after a nice hot meal before that happens-”

“With the fire master.”

“What?”

“You'd ‘prefer to be in bed after a nice hot meal’... with the fire master,” Cole snickered, watching as Jay's cheeks turned bright red. “That's a pretty important detail to skip over-”

“Stop stalling and go look before I drag you back down this mountain,” he growled irritably, petting at Wisp's snout. If the dragon hadn't been there, it wouldn't have been as threatening.

“Okay, okay. I'm moving.” So what if he was still a bit of a wuss around dragons?

Cole made his way to the entrance, more hesitantly than he would have liked to admit. The crack in the earth was daunting, looming over him as if to scare him off. He wondered if he actually wanted to know the answer. How far into the future would this take him? What if it was the day before he died? What if it didn't show any future for him at all? What if-

Okay, he had to stop before he thought himself into a trap.

After having paused, he continued forward into the tunnel, feeling along the walls to keep himself steady and to push through his growing nerves. Maybe this was a waste of time, but… now that he was human again, he wanted to see if it had changed at all. As the walls turned to ice and his breath began to fog, he saw the light of the sky reflecting back to him.

The labyrinth, while absolutely freezing and without much else to look at, had beautifully smooth ice. Even with the people that have come and gone, it was still spotless. When the light shone on it at just the right angle, the ice looked like crystals, sparkling like glitter. He tried to remember if Zane had commented on it the first time they'd come here.

Before he looked at himself on any of the walls, he took a deep breath. “Okay, ice… show me something new,” he whispered in the quiet of the cavern. Then he steeled himself and looked towards his reflection.

For a moment, it didn't show him anything, and his heart sank. Maybe this had been a waste of a trip… Then there was a wavering image of… someone walking towards him. It seemed like the ice couldn't decide what to show him, the image wavering indecisively, and it only made it more clear to him that he should take whatever this thing told him with a huge grain of salt.

Finally, the image of this future Cole became clear, and it stood right before him. He looked… well, older, obviously. Maybe a good thirty or forty years ahead. He was nearly the spitting image of his father, which he didn't know how to feel about. A full beard had grown on his face, hair even longer in his bun than now, hairs growing gray with age. There were wrinkles at the corners of his eyes, his eyebags much more prominent, some smile lines at the corners of his mouth and nose. He looked happier than he ever had been.

Surprisingly, though, he wasn't wearing the ninja gi. Everyone else's reflections had, from what he could remember, but… why wasn't his? Instead, he wore some comfortable attire, looking as if he was enjoying a day off from work. He seemed to have gained a few scars, but they all looked rather old. His fit yet pudgy torso had thickened up a bit, but he still looked quite strong… did he still have his super strength? He couldn't tell. His hands looked even more calloused than they do now, though. He squinted more at his fingers, seeing something glint on one of them. He froze.

Was that… No, there's just no way. Who the hell would-

The Cole in his reflection turned away from him and gestured for someone to join him, and he suddenly felt like this was all too much. It was lying to him. He couldn't look away.

Zane made his way over to stand beside him, holding a small child in his arms, a teen walking just behind him. The nindroid was sporting a new skin, one as aged as he was. It was similar to how he had looked when they had first met, skin just as dark as he remembered. He still wore his ninja garbs, but he was also wearing a ring on his finger. There's no way Zane would wear a ring while still being a ninja; it was too easy to lose, it would be uncomfortable to wear while fighting, and if the press saw it, forget living any semblance of a peaceful life.

He couldn't help but yearn for such a lie.

There was no way any of this was real, but he wanted it to be. Maybe add a cat or two, and that would be the dream… No. No, no, no- it wasn't real! It was just the reflection telling him his dream life; it was just his brain projecting his hopes into the ice- none of that was possible. Not for him.

He tore himself away from the walls of ice and rushed out, his mind screaming at him to forget such scarring images.

◇◇◇

Only a snippet for y'all. I've gotten much farther on it than just this, but still have a long way to go. Yes, this has to do with that one episode where they saw their future in the ice or whatever. I haven't watched that episode (or that season) in a very long time, and I don't feel like going back to watch it, so we're gonna deal with some flawed memory and inaccuracy.

Yes, I did look up the dragon's names and ended up finding some fan-made ones.

Happy Pride Month!

[mc-lukanette]

Marinette shivered, bringing her blanket further around her as she stared out the window. Even though it was still autumn, the weather for the day could easily be mistaken for winter. There was snow falling outside and, while she normally would find it pretty, she was still waiting for her tiny heater to warm up the room.

...I hope Luka's okay, she thought, curling in on herself worriedly as she imagined how he might be doing. They'd only met recently, but he was always so sweet to anyone who came by, even listening to people's situations despite his own. It felt like they were good friends.

She was certain he had money to stay somewhere as, despite him explaining that he wandered from town to town, he always managed to get enough gigs or general work with his musical talent. He could play just about anything and she'd never seen him turn down a single request (though he did make an amusing face when someone asked him to play an XY song once).

For all she knew, he could've already left and gone somewhere warmer. The thought made her feel colder, wishing that she'd be able to at least say "good-bye" to him had she known.

He might not have left, she reminded herself. He could even still be out there in the cold. Maybe he couldn't find a place soon enough, or everywhere was too packed, or he didn't even know that it'd get cold in time to do anything about it.

She glanced at the window again, watching the snow and imagining how cold it must be outside if she was still cold inside where she didn't have to worry about the wind chill factor of a cold breeze.

After a few seconds of silence, Marinette let out a loud whine of relent, throwing the blanket off of herself and pouting all the way to the door. She snagged her jacket, put on some boots, and opened the door to brave the cold outside.

——

"Luka!" Marinette cried, storming up to him. "What are you doing out here?!"

She found him out in the park, sitting on a bench like it wasn't snowing outside. He was in the middle of playing guitar, though "playing" was a bit generous when his fingers seemed frozen in position. She distinctly remembered cold winters back when she was younger when the heat would be only in the bakery section of her parents' house, leaving her to zone out in her room when it felt too chilly to think straight.

Luka only looked up at her when she put a hand on his shoulder, his hand twitching as his eyes focused on her. The scarf he wore was of decent quality, but hardly good enough to keep him warm.

"M-Marinette..."

"I can't believe you're still here!" She threw her hands up, but flinched and hugged herself when a cold breeze flew past. She scowled at the flecks of white in Luka's hair making it sparkle, eyes trailing down to his pants next to add, "And you're still wearing distressed pants when it's this cold?!"

"Sorry." He smiled, but sounded confused as if her worrying about him was strange. "I thought maybe I could make something new. It's not that cold."

"Not that—" Marinette bristled. She'd been out in the cold for maybe five minutes and already hated it. Almost like a declaration, she said, "...You're coming with me."

He blanked. "What?"

In a swift motion, she took his guitar from his lap and put it in the case, locking it shut so she could safely get it onto her back.

"Marinette—" Luka tried to protest again, but she was already grabbing his arm and pulling him off the bench. He stumbled, his legs taking a moment to find stability.

"You can lean on me if you have to," she insisted. "Why didn't you go somewhere anyway?"

He grinned sheepishly. "I thought someone else could use the space I'd—"

She huffed, almost rolling her eyes. "Yeah, you think that way, and then people start walking all over you, being all friendly just so they can..." She trailed off as she caught Luka's concerned gaze, blushing when she realized that she was revealing too much. "Ah—anyway, we need to go."

——

After practically shoving Luka inside her home, Marinette turned and used her full weight to slam the door shut behind them. The warmth of her house slowly started to sink back in and she let herself sigh in relief, almost dropping to the floor before she remembered the guitar case on her back.

"Can I set this down?" she asked.

Luka nodded, seeming somewhere between fond and amused. She took the strap off of herself and let it lean against the corner of the room, then started to dust off bits of snow from herself. Taking a look at Luka, who stood either too cold to notice his own state or uncaring, she reached up and did the same to him. She felt like a feather duster, brushing unwanted specks and such away to make way for a neater appearance.

It was only once she stepped back in satisfaction that she noticed Luka's wide eyes. It registered with her then that this was a grown man, she was a grown woman, and she was touching him even if it was with wholly innocent intentions. Maybe it was simply because Luka was such a comforting presence or she'd just been lost in the moment, but she genuinely hadn't thought about it.

"...O-oh!" she exclaimed, turning away and trying to find any distraction. Spotting the heater still in the corner, her mind buzzed trying to think of how to best rid him of the cold and she decided, "I'll let you use my shower."

"I—" Luka shook his head, back straight like he was trying to be professional about this. "I can't ask you to do that."

"Good thing you're not asking then!" She gave him a gentle push towards the hall as a test, eyeing his legs when he adjusted his balance. "See? I bet your legs are still frozen! Now go!"

She walked past him and tried to show him the way. It took a moment, but she eventually heard his footsteps following after her, confirming that he'd finally accepted the offer.

Marinette took one look into the bathroom to make sure she didn't need to panic clean, then stepped aside to allow Luka in. "There you go."

"...Thank you, Marinette," Luka said.; she could tell that he'd held back another refusal and it made her feel a little smug. He continued, "I'll pay you for it."

She poked his chest. "Don't. It's just one friend taking care of another." She paused, hesitating when she realized that they'd never established their relationship. "Uh... w-we're friends, right?"

Thankfully, Luka smiled at her, voice soft as he replied, "Yeah. Of course."

She smiled back, watching as he turned away to head into the bathroom. He went to close the door as something occurred to her, her hand unconsciously reaching out to stop him. "Wait!"

He opened the door back up, blinking at her. She ran off to go grab her tiny heater, unplugging it from the wall and gathering it in her arms.

"Here," she said, running back and handing it over to him. "Plug this in. I hate it when I get out of the shower and it's cold."

"Don't you need this?" he wondered, adjusting his grip on it to ensure he wasn't putting any pressure on the wire.

She waved a hand, dismissing the idea. "I'll be fine for a few minutes." Looking him up and down, she mulled over if she covered everything. Her eyes locked with the tears in his pants and she snapped her fingers, noting, "Ah, you'll need something warmer to wear!"

She didn't wait for him to say anything and went off to her room. While he was obviously too big to wear anything of hers, she still liked to dabble in making clothes in her spare time - including menswear - so she found something suitable enough for him.

Luka was still standing awkwardly in the doorway when she returned. She piled the clothes into his arms that were still carrying the heater, but while he was giving them an odd (almost uncomfortable?) look, she had another thought.

"Oh, and you'll need your own toiletries of course!" She went past him into the bathroom, crouching down at the sink to open the cupboards underneath it. She always kept spare hair care products for when she ran out, and while she didn't really have any that were made with men in mind, she didn't imagine Luka would care about that sort of thing.

She brought back a few of them she thought he might like, though his arms were still full with the heater and clothes. Leaning left and right to get a good look at the situation, Marinette carefully wedged the products where she knew they wouldn't fall.

Somehow he gave an even stranger look at the products themselves. It was comical actually, poor Luka standing there and trying not to drop anything she'd handed him. She blushed, wondering if maybe she'd overwhelmed him at all.

I-I guess I could've just put everything near the sink or something instead of giving them to him, she thought, rubbing an arm shyly.

Luka, however, took it all in stride, a laugh bursting from his chest that almost threw off his balancing act. "You're a funny woman, Marinette."

"F-funny?" She stared, wide-eyed at what she interpreted as a bizarre reaction. Did she embarrass herself?

Luka's gaze was warm though, reassuring her before he turned away to her towards her shower. While he didn't elaborate, the way her heart skipped a beat told her that he could've only meant good things.

She walked out of the bathroom, closing the door behind her to give Luka privacy. There was a clattering noise from the other side - probably him finally losing his hold - and she covered her mouth with both hands to hide her laugh. He was a little funny himself.

——

While Luka was taking his shower, Marinette decided to prepare some hot tea to keep her warm. The lack of her heater still left her a little cold, but she put up with it like she said she would.

She could hear the shower running, as well as what she was certain was Luka's humming. If she listened closely enough, she could tell what sound it was.

He has good taste, she noted, finding herself humming back.

She didn't have people over that much, so it was often just her in the house. She didn't even think anyone had used her shower before besides herself. Now that the panic of getting Luka out of the cold had settled, it was oddly nice just having someone in her otherwise lonely space.

Time passed, Marinette only stopping her humming when she needed to take a sip of her tea. Another cup had been set out in case Luka wanted something as well, though she was prepared to make him hot chocolate instead if he didn't like tea.

It was strange though. At some point, she stopped hearing the shower itself and only heard Luka's hum. It also sounded like it was louder than before. Maybe she was hyperfixating so much on the sound that she was blocking out everything else?

At least, that's what she thought until she looked up, noticing Luka leaning against the wall. He was still humming along with her, a look of amusement on his face.

"Buh—" She averted her gaze, a strangled noise coming from her throat when she cut off her hum. "S-sorry. I knew that one, so..."

"You always made the best requests," Luka compliments instead of addressing the humming elephant in the room.

She giggled sheepishly. "I know the best music. That's why." Then, trying to turn things around on him, she grinned and reminded him, "I would've asked you to play XY if I didn't."

Luka's face soured instantly. Feeling successful in her attempt, Marinette laughed in delight.

Now that he was out of the shower, she was able to properly take him in. Sweaters weren't really "his thing" and it showed in how he wore it - not that she wouldn't take on the challenge of making him one he liked wearing - but it was comfortable. His hair, meanwhile, was damp, but dry enough that he didn't need a towel around his shoulders to catch water. She kind of wanted to touch it, entranced by the way his highlights remained unaffected by being washed. Maybe they were natural after all.

Unprompted, she blurted out, "How aren't you famous?" and while it would've been easy to take it back or apologize, Luka was never offended by more personal questions and she wanted to know. "You're more talented than most - probably any - musicians in the industry, you're handsome, and you have good energy."

He blushed at the blatant compliment to his looks - cute - but answered anyway, "People have tried, but I'm not interested."

"Really?"

He walked closer to her for a more comfortable conversation. She showed him the hot water and his choice between tea or hot chocolate, noting that he opted for tea and sweetened it a little more than she would have.

She made a mental note that he had a bit of a sweet tooth.

"I know it sounds like an honor to have people offer me deals," he sighed, leaning against the counter and fidgeting with the tag on the teabag, "but they always want me to change something. They think I need more tattoos and piercings, or want me to be a little meaner for an 'edge', or change the kind of music I like to make."

Marinette understood that. There were some types of fashion she didn't like to make, and while it felt bad turning down requests from friends or even commissions, she didn't want to force anything or go outside of her comfort zone. She was simply her and she respected herself enough to avoid putting herself through that.

"I get it," she said after a moment, smiling sympathetically at him. She'd already revealed something personal that day, so she didn't want to unload further onto him. Maybe another time.

Luka smiled back at her, then looked back down at his tea. He took the spoon and gave the tea a stir, adding on, "I wouldn't have accepted anyway, even if they did give me a good deal. I don't think I want to be a rock star."

In shock, she wondered aloud, "No? I was so sure that's why you were traveling. I thought you were trying to get someone to notice your skills?"

Her reaction felt rude, but it didn't look to surprise him. She supposed he must've gotten it a lot, perhaps from frustrated people who wanted him yet couldn't have him.

He hesitated, tapping at the edge of his tea cup with a black nail, before asking, "...Can I tell you something personal, Marinette?"

Perhaps too eager for her own good, she stepped closer and nodded fervently. It was perhaps too close for the amount of time they'd known each other, but she was too curious to care and Luka didn't mind.

"My mom never liked being tied down," he began. "Even if we stayed in the same city, we lived on a houseboat so she could move whenever she wanted to." He stared off at nothing, as if reminiscing on mixed memories. "I never said anything about it because we were taught to go wherever our passion took us, and hers took us all over until I grew up enough to go out on my own."

"And she rubbed off on you," Marinette guessed. She imagined a little boy on a pirate ship, going to sleep in one place and waking up somewhere new; a dramatic mental image and almost definitely not how it was actually like, but she felt that it was the feeling he was getting across.

"She didn't have an anchor keeping her in one place," he continued, lifting the teabag slightly just to let it go and watch it sink back to the bottom of the cup. "She did meet some woman before I moved out, but she liked to travel too." He shrugged, unbothered. "I don't know where they are, but I'm sure my mom's happy."

It sounded sad, but Luka didn't. Marinette wished she could be in his mind for a moment, going through his memories to see where his attachment to his family began and his lack of attachment when it came to letting people do as they pleased began. What could she even say? That his mother surely missed him? That he was better off as he was, going around by his own choice than his mother's? That he at least seemed happy traveling from place to place and playing for people even if he didn't have a place to call home?

"You're looking for your own anchor then," she said instead. She was sure that's where he was going anyway.

He hummed with a confirming, "Mm," and that was apparently all he had to say on the subject, as his next comment was, "I should get your heater back from the bathroom."

She let him go, watching him disappear into the hallway. The vulnerability he'd shown her made her shiver, drawing her eyes back to the world outside her window. Taking her teacup with her, she crossed the space and set it on her windowsill while she took in the sights.

The snow had stopped only after she and Luka were out of its range, because of course, and she focused on the blanket of snow covering just about everything. Some people walked by, most dressed for the occasion while others were as unprepared as Luka, and Marinette frowned at the idea of having not planned further than getting him a warm drink and shower. On some level, it wasn't any of her business, so whether Luka moved on to go somewhere warmer or chose to stick around a little longer shouldn't matter to her.

It mattered to her.

As she mulled it all over, she faintly heard footsteps behind her, the other sounds signaling that Luka had returned and was setting up the heater back where it was before. Not stopping to think or let herself regret saying it, she voiced, "Do you want to stay here until the cold lets up?"

Silence was her response, and even his movements had stopped. She followed the original source of the sounds to see Luka crouched down, his hand hovering to put the plug in the socket yet frozen in place while he stared up at her in surprise.

Still committing to the suggestion, she anxiously tried to persuade him. "I know you were just talking about how you travel everywhere, but I'm worried about you. Even if you have the money to go somewhere warm, it's still expensive, isn't it?" She waved her arms about as she spoke, trying to work out her nerves. "I'm not asking you to pay rent either. The house is big enough and your company is—"

"Won't that make things hard for you?" he suddenly questioned.

"...Huh?" She tilted her head, puzzled. Wasn't she just explaining how there was more than enough room in her house for another person?

Luka stood, abandoning the plug - or maybe having forgotten it entirely - to stand up at his full height. Touched, he put a hand to his chest, but clarified, "If you really want me here, I'd love to, but I don't want anyone to feel awkward if I stay."

"What are you talking about?" She stepped closer to him again. "Why would it be awkward?"

There was that face again: the one he'd made when she gave him clothes and the hair care products from under the sink. She ran over their whole conversation, wondering if maybe she'd said something that he could've taken the wrong way.

"Marinette," Luka said, sounding as confused as she felt, "I'm talking about your boyfriend."

"My—" She felt like she was going to fall over. "My what?!"

"Or your girlfriend," he hurriedly corrected, looking contemplatively at the clothes he was wearing. "I guess if she was tall enough, then—"

"Luka!" Marinette put a hand over her face in an attempt to cover up her blush, her other hand waving wildly at him to tell him to stop. "I-I don't have a girlfriend, or a boyfriend, or anyone. Those clothes are mine." Okay, maybe that would only confuse him further. "Do you remember when I told you that I design clothes?"

He nodded.

She pointed up and down at him. "I made those. They don't belong to anyone."

Luka's body language changed in an instant. Both of his hands went up to grasp at the sweater, his eyes intently taking in every detail of it with such awe that she felt a sudden burst of confidence.

Everything clicked now. He hadn't looked awkward in the clothes she made because of how he felt wearing such clothes, but rather because he thought they belonged to someone else. He only hesitated on accepting because he thought there was someone else living with her. With the latter, there were all sorts of ways she could interpret him having thought that she'd already been spoken for, but regardless, it did mean one thing...

"So you'll stay then?"

He tore his gaze away from the clothes to make eye contact with her. In response, she held her hand out, hoping to make the offer "official" with a handshake. She could already imagine him insisting on doing dishes for her or giving her warnings about when he'd be gone and when he'd be back, and honestly it just made her all the more eager to get him to accept. He was just cute that way.

"...Alright." He beamed at her, reaching out to complete the handshake. "I'll stay. Thanks, Marinette."

It must've taken a lot for him to agree to root himself somewhere, so she felt extra special albeit a little guilty for it. Besides, maybe it was just her imagination, but she did feel like an anchor in a way, keeping Luka grounded in her presence. It felt as though he wouldn't go anywhere so long as she kept holding onto his hand.

Idly, she thought that she wouldn't mind being that for him.