#i wonder if we'll see his right eye again or if he'll just keep the eyepatch

[shiikiyun]

futa doodle i did in class lol

[sugdenlovesdingle]

Based on Oliver mentioning Buck and Jee baking together in an upcoming ep.

(I wrote this on my phone so it's not the greatest)

now also on AO3

---

"Is it someone's birthday?" Maddie asked, running through all of their friends and relatives in her mind, trying to figure out if she forgot a birthday.

"No." Buck shook his head and kept pulling ingredients out of the fridge and his kitchen cabinets.

"Ok... What's the occasion then?" she asked when he didn't elaborate.

"It's for Tommy. "

"Oh, is it his birthday?"

"No, not for a few weeks."

"Right. So this is a practice run?"

"What? No. I found the recipe online, but it's easy enough."

"Ok..."

"He likes cake."

"Ok."

Buck sighed and rolled his eyes at his sister before glancing up in the direction of the loft's bedroom.

"He's had a rough couple of days. He had to make an emergency landing because of bad weather yesterday and the ambulance couldn't get to them fast enough and they lost the patient."

"That was him? Josh took that call and he was exhausted from stress by the end of shift."

Buck nodded.

"Tommy too. And he was hurting all over last night. He never takes any pain medication but he took two ibuprofen and a hot shower and crashed into bed."

"Are you sure you're alright to take Jee for the afternoon then? I can ask Mrs Lee or see if she can go play with her friend Emily from down the road. "

"It's fine." Buck told her and turned to Jee. "You're my sous chef aren't you? Are you going to help me today?"

"Yeah!" the girl yelled happily.

"But we have to be quiet ok? Tommy is sleeping upstairs and we don't want to wake him. He needs to sleep because he's sick."

Jee nodded solemnly to show she understood.

"But we're going to surprise him with cake so he'll feel better soon, right?"

"Yeah!" she yelled again, making her mother and uncle laugh.

"At least she's enthusiastic." Maddie tried and bent down to hug and kiss her daughter goodbye. "You be good for uncle Buck, me or daddy will pick you up tonight ok?"

"Ok mommy!" Jee said and climbed up onto the stool next to the kitchen counter.

"Go. We'll be fine." Buck assured her, wrapping an arm around Jee to keep her safe.

After Maddie had left, Buck gave Jee an old shirt of his to wear as apron, made her wash her hands, and the two of them got to work.

He tried to let her do as much as possible while still making sure everything was going to plan and she wouldn't hurt herself.

Before long the cake was in the oven and they started the clean up.

"And when it's done baking, we let it cool off a little and then we can put the icing on and decorate it with these." he showed Jee the assortment of sprinkles he kept in his kitchen for her.

Jee nodded happily and started planning out her sprinkles masterpiece.

Buck looked up towards the bedroom area and listened for a sign of life from his boyfriend.

When he didn't hear anything, he decided to put Jee in front of the TV and go check on him. Tommy was fast asleep, rolled up in the duvet like a human burrito, and didn't seem to have woken up since Buck had made him eat something that morning.

Satisfied everything was ok, he went back downstairs and let Jee tell him all about the cartoon she was watching, until the cake was ready for decoration.

"Which ones do you want to put on first? Pink or gold?"

"Gold!"

"Alright, gold it is. Put it on where you think is best." Buck told her. "But not too much, we need to leave room for the other colours. And we can put your name on it. And mine."

"And uncle Tommy." she decided and Buck froze for a second.

Sure Tommy and Jee had met and he'd explained to her that Tommy was to him what mommy and daddy were to each other, and he was pretty sure she'd understood, but to hear her call him uncle Tommy, that was new.

Jee didn't seem to notice just how much she'd just turned his world upside down and was babbling about what colour sprinkles should go where.

"Pink here for the heart." she decided and Buck wondered when they'd agreed on heart shaped decorations.

"Right, yeah, that... that works." he let Jee draw a heart in pink sprinkles and dutifully wrote his and Tommy's names in it. "And where should I write your name?"

Jee thought for a minute and studied the cake but then shook her head.

"No name."

"What? Are you sure?"

"Yeah." Jee said like it was the most obvious thing in the world and put some sugar stars across the top half of the cake, above the heart with their names. "That's the sky. With stars."

"Oh wow, that's beautiful miss Jee, did you make that?"

Buck jumped a little when he suddenly heard his boyfriend's voice behind him and felt a hand on his waist.

"Uncle Buck helped" Jee told Tommy.

"Did he now? I'm sure you did all of the important work." Tommy said and gave her a conspiratory wink before turning to Buck and stealing a small kiss. "Hey." he greeted him softly.

"H-hey... Did we wake you?"

Tommy shook his head.

"It's fine. Had to get up eventually."

"Feeling better yet?"

Tommy shrugged and sat down at the kitchen island.

"I'm alright." he just said, which wasn't really an answer but Buck decided to let it go for now.

"Uncle Tommy, it's for you. You need to come look!" Jee insisted, pointing at the cake.

Tommy met Buck's eyes over her head and mouthed "Uncle Tommy?" at him.

Buck shrugged and smiled.

"Uncle Tommy, come see!" Jee said again, a little louder this time, clearly getting fed up with the adults in her life.

"Why don't you two come here and show me, and you can tell me what you made."

Buck helped her down from her stool and put the cake on the island in front of Tommy before helping Jee back on her stool, this time sitting next to Tommy who immediately put a hand on her back so she wouldn't fall off.

"This is the sky with the stars." she started like she was explaining the mysteries of the universe. "And you can fly to the stars."

Tommy laughed a little.

"I don't think I can go quite that high in my helicopter. But maybe I can show you how high I do go. When you're a little older. And your mommy and daddy are ok with it. Maybe uncle Evan will want to come too."

Jee-Yun turned to Buck and gave him an expectant look.

"Yeah, maybe." he settled on, trying to get his heart to calm down and not burst out of his chest hearing his boyfriend make plans with his niece. Even if she was only three and would probably have forgotten about it by the time she was old enough to even think about going up.

She seemed happy with that answer and turned back to Tommy to explain the rest of their creation.

"It's really amazing Jee, it's almost too pretty to eat don't you think?"

"No. You have to eat it. It's chocolate." she said as if that explained everything.

"Oh really? I do love chocolate." Tommy told her. "But can I take a picture of it before we eat it?" he reached into the pocket of his sweats only to realise he'd left his phone upstairs. "Evan, can you take a picture and send it to me?"

"Sure." he grabbed his phone and opened the camera. "You should be in the picture too, we made it for you after all."

Tommy dutifully posed with the cake, tilting the pan towards the camera so the decorations were clearly visible.

"And now one with the master chef herself." he put the cake back down on the table and moved a little closer to Jee so they'd both fit in the picture with the cake and Buck took a few pictures.

After that Jee insisted on having a photo shoot, and by the time Maddie came to pick her back up, his camera roll was filled with pictures of the three of them.

He showed a few to Maddie at Jee's insistence and set one of Tommy making a funny face at Jee as his new contact picture.

They said goodbye to Maddie and Jee-yun and settled on the sofa together, scrolling through the pictures and laughing at some of silly ones.

"I like this one." Buck said, stopping at a selfie of the two of them where Tommy had kissed his cheek at the last second.

"Yeah. Me too." Tommy said softly, not really looking at the picture. "Thanks. For today. For getting me out of my head."

Buck smiled and kissed him.

"Of course."

[writingmar]

hi, can I request the combination A2 and F7 for Spencer Reid smut prompts, please?? Thanks <333

'𝐛𝐞𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞.'

𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘪𝘥 𝘹 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳

Prompt A2: dryhumping + F7: in a car - (prompts lists)

after a long day of working a case, one of the BAU cars broke down, which means that all six of you have to pile into a five person car. luckily, spencer offers his lap for you as a seat...

wc: 1.1k

content & tw: sensual fluff, public, dry humping.

a/n: this is much tamer than my usual writing but i rlly enjoyed it!

'oh, for fucks sake,' JJ says as she turns the key in the ignition. the car sputters and shakes with all its might but it doesn't start. 'i'm never renting from this company again, this thing has been having issues the entire time.'

'here, let me try,' you say as you bend over the center console to try the key for yourself, but obviously, it doesn't change anything. JJ grabs her phone and calls someone. 'hey, rossi, our car has broken down, could we hitch a ride to the hotel..? yeah, i know, we'll squeeze in... great, thanks, we'll see you in a minute.'

'don't the boys have a five-seater?' you ask as JJ hangs up the phone. she looks over at you with a sweet smile. 'yeah, but like i said, we'll squeeze in. and besides, i've been seeing you eye spencer, and he'll be polite enough to offer you a seat.'

you feel your cheeks heat and tell JJ to shut up, but you know damn well she's right. you have been eyeing spencer for a while. in fact, you've been doing more than that. unspoken moments together in hallways, soft touches during long days which end in secret randez-vous in hotel rooms late at night. during those meetings, spencer shows a different side of himself, the built up sensual tension from the entire day unloading onto you, and you know he loves that day long chase.

when the boys pull up, rossi is in the passenger seat with hotch driving. spencer and derek sit in the backseat. when derek opens the door and moves to the middle seat, you can already hear spencer rambling. 'driving with too many people in the car, particularly with one person sitting on another's lap, poses significant safety risks and is illegal in many places. the likelihood of severe injury or death increases for all passengers when seat belts are not used properly. according to the CDC, seat belt use reduces the risk of death by 45% and the risk of serious injury by 50% for front-seat occupants. For those in the rear seats, the reduction in risk of death is 25%.'

you smile as you hear his voice, JJ already having taken derek's spot, meaning the car is now full. you open the door at spencers seat, 'well, then i guess i'll sit in one of the rear seats, seeing as that cuts my risk of death in half,' you say, moving yourself to sit in spencers lap.

'no, wait, that's not what i meant, i just-' spencer starts to ramble again, his cheeks warming as you sit yourself down on his legs. derek cuts him off and says, 'well then you better hold on tight, pretty boy. be her seat belt.'

spencer looks confused and a bit panicked for a second, but when hotch starts the car, he wastes no time and wraps his arms around you. 'kids, behave back there,' he says as he pulls away.

rossi starts talking to hotch about today's case, a serial killer in the midwest, while JJ keeps derek's eyes on her in conversation. you and spencer are in a little bubble, even with four others in the car, no one is focussed on the two of you.

every time hotch turns a corner or hits a speed bump, your ass moves slightly over spencers crotch, and you feel his arms tighten around you. the drive will be about half an hour, but you can tell its going to be the longest thirty minutes of your life when you start to feel something growing underneath you.

you turn your head to look at spencer, who stares straight ahead. you always wonder what happens in his mind, but especially now. after another speed bump, he closes his eyes and his lips part slightly as you feel a twitch under you.

you start to grin, his desperate attempts to keep himself composed absolutely adorable. you decide to push your luck, grinding yourself down on him subtly. he moves one hand to your hip, grabbing it tightly and stilling you. you're afraid you might have gone too far.

when you look back at him, he is no longer staring forward. his eyes are fixed on you, and he starts to pull your hip back and forth. you open your mouth slightly in a surprised gasp, not expecting him to be so bold.

JJ and derek's chatter beside you, rossi and hotch's in front, and the two of you completely silent. the radio plays softly, and you're sure nobody is actually listening, but you will never be able to listen to this song like you used to before. taylor swift's 'wildest dreams' is now the soundtrack to an intimate moment between you two, and you know you'll remember this whenever you hear it again.

spencer keeps his movements subtle and slow, not pulling any attention to the two of you. the tension is almost palpable, and you truly hope nobody notices, but the people in this car are bold enough to say something if they do.

every soft gasp coming from spencer's lips, ever small furrow as his brow, but especially every bit of movement and every twitch from his cock makes you wetter and wetter, and you know damn well that you won't be alone in your hotel room tonight.

his hand that's not on your hip holds onto you tightly, squeezing the skin on your side as he desperately tries to get you closer, maybe even to get you alone.

the drive seems to last forever, but when the car comes to a halt, it feels like only 5 minutes have passed. you hadn't realised how much you had been pulled into the moment, and judging by spencers sigh, he hadn't either.

'well we made it. go to sleep, everyone. this case is far from closed,' hotch says as you all climb out of the car. you smile at spencer, his eyes still fixed on you. 'get some rest, spence, i'll see you tomorrow.'

derek takes one look at you two and smiles at the floor. as you walk towards the door, you hear derek talk to spencer, mocking your words, 'yeah, reid, get some rest.'

'shut up,' spencer said, his voice cracking slightly on the nerves, but you know that in about thirty minutes, he will be knocking on your hotel room door and he will be everything but for nervous...

[six-eyed-samurai]

I've seen a lot of people who write Muichiro as someone who sort of forgets he's not dating you in the crush stage, but my take is that Muichiro actually forgets he's dating you and thinks he's in his crush era.

🌸He'll approach you suddenly, a couple times a month, with a serious expression and red cheeks, to confess his not-so-secret crush on you from since the day you both met, having forgotten he had already done so and you both were already together

🌸You usually just go along with it until he gets to the "I hope you feel the same but I'll understand if you don't" part; then you break it to him with a shy laugh that he had already confessed and you both were going out

🌸It's not tiring at all to keep repeating the same scenario, not at all! Muichiro is so cute when he does it, unconsciously pulling an innocent puppy expression and staring at you hopefully. And when he remembers you both are a couple he'll immediately light up ever so excitedly, attack you in a hug, press his forehead against you and apologize in a flurry of "Sorry" and compliments

("How did I manage to pull someone like you?" He wonders out loud. You laugh - he's too cute for his own good.)

🌸Not only that it's honestly become a guessing game with you to see what method Muichiro would confess to you again this time. You both have approximately cycled through confession by love letter, gifts (he might've stolen it forgetting it belonged to someone else, but it's the thought that counts, right?), cloud-gazing date, outright declaration, jealous blurt...yeah, you've gone through every single trope there was possible

🌸Your favorite one was when he threw an airplane across the room to you and when you unfolded it he wrote a little sweet confession. You still have it, along with the rest he started throwing to you to 1. get your attention 2. annoy you 3. ask you to join him for training or cloud-gazing

🌸 You've told him multiple times it's okay if he wants to stare at you anytime he likes after catching him doing it one day, like he did when he was in his crush phase, but he forgot and acts like he just got caught performing the most atrocious crime on earth: looks away immediately and vehemently denies it

🌸Everyone around you guys thinks it's super funny and adorable how Muichiro would start talking about you and abruptly end it with something like "Is this what people mean by having a crush?" or "I would really like to be her boyfriend someday if I manage to confess and she accepts." As said above he gets really puppy-dog excited when he's told "Aren't you guys dating already?"

("We are?" Muichiro frowned. "I don't remember..." His eyes widen. "So that's who left me that daikon today..." Then he runs off forgetting he's in the middle of conversation to go find you.)

🌸Sometimes it's a little awkward when it comes to dates though. Say there's a festival happening in a nearby town or White Day and you've been planning to spend the day having fun with him - Muichiro's going to forget you're both together and be too shy to ask you out despite that's all he's thinking about. Then you have to remind him, or someone else triggers it.

("I'm so sorry I didn't ask you!" Muichiro pushed a small box of chocolates towards you. "I got you this as an apology if it makes up for it? We'll do anything you want for tonight if you want?)

🌸It's always funny when Muichiro gets sulky or starts moping around when he hears about your boyfriend and how you're gushing over him because he forgot it was him. You like to tease him about it by listing out all the qualities you like about him and the usual praise until Muichiro asks who it is, his jealousy quite obvious.

("You, dummy!"

Muichiro blinked, then groaned, grabbing onto your side and looking up at you pathetically. "Don't play with me like that!")

🌸Of course it's not all fun and games. If this is before he met Tanjiro and regained his memories he can be pretty cold to you when he doesn't remember about your relationship, leading to a lot of things you both have to talk through after a fight.

🌸Worse case scenario is that he still remembers you as a crush, but decides that instead of confessing like before he ought to push you away before you became a weakness, a distraction...someone he'd lose.

🌸After he gets back his memories and becomes more like his old self however, he doesn't forget your relationship anymore, meaning to make up for all the times he did. In fact he flexes it, wanting to tell everyone about the both of you all the time to the point your default face is now "extremely flustered".

🌸Especially when he's jealous, actually.

("I heard that (y/n) has a crush though, do you really think you still stand a chance?"

Muichiro whipped his head around at the sound of the two slayers gossiping in the corner during a break from his training. A slight crease forms between his eyebrows and he decides to go a little harder on them later.

"Nah, it's fine! I'm a hundred per cent confident she'll say yes as long as she isn't dating anyone!"

"But I heard she is," a third slayer joined in, leaning closer conspiratorially. "A Hashira, actually."

The guy in question bursts out laughing. Scumbag. "As if! Don't be so stupid. She's already lucky she could get MY attention."

"Who would want a stupid mizunoto like you?" Muichiro smacked the slayer with the flat of his blade expressionlessly. The other two yelped and scrambled back. "For your information (y/n) got my attention - and now you have mine: go run ten laps around the Estate and if I hear you defile her name again I'll make it a hundred."

He blew a raspberry at the poor wretch as he ran past.)

[acotarxreader]

Jilted

Azriel x Reader

Synopsis: The morning of your wedding your fears are enforced by an old way of thought, sending you running and Azriel to cope with the aftermath but will a reunion set you both back on the path you should both be living?

Warnings: Angsty

A/N: Right, you may find yourself hating Reader for a bit but I tried my best convey the panic and pressure.

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

“I can't do this I can't do this I can't do this”

“Shh YNN you'll be fine! This is what you want!” Mor caught you in her arms, your train half tangling your feet. You cried into her chest, not caring if your make-up was streaming down your face, your sister and maid of honour rocking you gently.

“YN, come on sweetie, it's just pre-wedding jitters, happens to most, Azriel will be waiting to see his beautiful bride!”

“Mor it's too soon! I was going to be a writer! Go off and live on the continent, I have never even been! There's still so much I want to go and do!”

“And you will! You will YN! You and Az will do that together and more! Marriage isn't going to change that!”

“You're right, you're right��� You pulled from her, rubbed under your eyes and sat back down at the vanity. You looked into the mirror at the person you hardly recognised and silently went about reapplying your makeup.

“You look beautiful YN” You could only nod at her, afraid if you opened your mouth again it would set off a series of unfortunate events.

“I’m going to go check on Azriel” She gave you a smile before ducking out of the pastel room, leaving you alone. You steadied your breathing, batting your tears away with your lashes before they could fall further.  You loved Azriel, he was your life force, saved you from yourself and you returned the same to him. He was your everything. These thoughts brought ease to you. You ran a soft hairbrush through your flowing locks, a smile beginning to reappear on your face.

“Oh you look lovely my child” The sound of a weathered female's voice came up behind you, causing you to jump slightly. She was of pure Illyrian blood, a representative of a dying way of thought, a relic in her own right, Azriels only remaining relative he was in contact with.

“Thank you, Elena” You found your head bowing slightly to her, unsure of why, you out-ranked her and yet you felt the pressure of the millennia of the institution she represented weigh on you. 

“You're going to make a wonderful wife YN” She almost snaked up behind you as quietly as she entered the room as you watched her in the reflection. You tried not to stare at the clipped tattered wings that hung from the female, she tucked them in as if noticing your glance. 

“I just know you'll keep him a nice life”

“What do you mean?” You turned to face the skeletal woman, her bone-chilling words wrapping around your lungs.

“Well, I mean being the wife of a powerful Illyrian of course! And just think YN when the children come along you'll be so busy raising the next generation of warriors! Not much time for other things but what could be more important than the bloodline? Azriel is a hard worker, I know he'll provide in tenfolds” She smiled as if she wasn't throwing a live grenade, it began to smoke as the pin was pulled from it inside your head. You could feel your chest compressing further with the strangling tradition.

“Well, Az and I will be both working and you know we won't be having offspring until after we travel and even then we'll both be looking after them” You tried to calm yourself down but her shrill laughter put a quick stop to relief you had from your own words.

“Oh, my child don't we all think that! You're marrying an Illyrian, bastard born or not-” the words cut you, anger replacing anxiety for a moment until she continued “-He can’t suppress the urges of his blood. His life partner will be malleable, mute and well-behaved, does what is expected of her. Azriel has other things to be doing for his Court than raising children, female work” 

“I-” You couldn’t find the words through the magma-thick matter-of-fact speech she choked you with. 

“-Well, I must go make myself useful elsewhere child” Her crochet-hook-like fingers dug into your shoulders with a squeeze before she turned and left you in the solitude of your room once more. 

You could feel the air rush from your lungs as you fought to stop the oxygen from evaporating from your blood. You stood, pacing, blood rushing to your face as you stumbled on the train of your dress, hitting the carpet with unforgiving force. You lay for a moment on the carpet, hands splayed out in front of you, your engagement catching the light like you loved. It suddenly feeling much too tight. 

“Gods! Fuck! I can’t do this!” You stood on rattling knees, grabbing things frantically from the dresser before you could fully become cognisant of the actions.

You moved quickly and carefully through the door and into the empty hallway, avoiding the directions where laughs leaked out, them falling like battle cries in your ears. 

You reached the stone steps of the venue with quiet desperation, your adrenaline and anxiety now fully controlling your body as you bolted down the path, half stumbling. You whipped around to look back up to the hill where the hall of your friends and family waited for the blushing bride, tears claiming your face as their own as you dashed into the streets of Velaris before anyone inside became the wiser.

—----------

Funerals are a strange thing. They do strange things to people. You thought this as you stood at the back of a hall you had not been inside in almost 70 years, thought about how the female they were saying goodbye to today shook your entire life up like it was nothing. You looked around and imagined it the week after you left, the day you left, the hour after you left. You thought of the moments you missed with your chosen family since you fled the Night Court and all its wonderful attributes, you pushed the guilt you had been fighting ever since then back down

From the back row, your eyes landed on the backs of the three Archeron sisters, their stories meeting you on your travels around the globe. You smothered the smile that toyed at your mouth, the thoughts of your friends happy and in love warming you. Your gaze landed on the the back of Azriels head as it hung in respect. Too much, this was too much, you couldn’t deal with him seeing you. As you had 70 years previously, you slipped from the hall without anyone noticing. 

You were met with the warm Spring sun, a beautiful day in Velaris, as they all were. You wandered down the unforgiving steps, your name from a familiar voice stopping you.

“Yn?” 

“Mor!”

“Yn!” She ran down the steps, taking you in her arms, the feeling of home rushing to you. You were so happy to hold your sister having worked through the issues that arose from your wedding day. At first, she rightfully iced you entirely but after two decades of silence, she reached out, asking to reconnect, missing her sister in the fray and yet you always found an excuse to not come home. 

“Yn I'm so happy you're back! You came back for the funeral?”

“Yeah I did, felt I needed to”

“Yeah I mean I suppose they were almost your family too” she smiled before realising her words and apologising, a weak smile grew on your face in acceptance of the throwaway comment. The two of you continued down a winding road away from the groups leaking out of the hall.

“So how long are you here?”

“Just the weekend, I have meetings on Monday, I’m staying at our old apartment, remember?”

“Oh yes! Just a flying visit so, the busy life of a successful big-time author I suppose”

“Oh yeah, I'm plagued with the title” you laughed, finally meeting the Sidra as it coursed, its glimmering water making you smile.

“Yeah, your success really boomed after leaving here” She almost sounded sad before beaming at you again and catching your hands in hers.

“I guess, I missed you though, I missed the Night Court”

“And Azriel?” The name struck pure pain into your heart, as if seeing the back of his head in the hall wasn't bad enough, hearing his name was almost catastrophic, you only nodded.

“Well, he misses you too YN” She squeezed your hands.

“He doesn't, he couldn't, not after what I did to him Mor” She looked at you with sympathy, looking back up the street you just walked down. 

“I have to get back, they’ll be looking for me” You gave her an understanding smile 

“Meet me for a drink later in Rita’s, we have so much to catch up on” as she kissed your cheek goodbye with her words before returning back up the street to the hall again.

You looked out over the Sidra, an empty plot of land ripping through your heart. It was there where you and Azriel were going to build, it still stayed empty. A mausoleum to your relationship. You peeled your eyes from it, looking elsewhere around the city you adored, deciding to spend the remainder of your evening re-acquainting yourself with it. 

-

Night fell in the city of stars as you found your way towards the Town House by muscle memory alone. You felt so alive being back, more alive than any amount of travel or success ever brought you. You leaned against the fence, waiting happily for your sister.

“Y-Yn?” his face dropped, his voice alone causing you to bite the inside of your mouth to almost bleed. The red flush from your walking was gone from your face growing pale at the sight of him standing on the other side of the street. He crossed slowly as if any sudden movement would send you running.

“H-Hi Az-Azriel, you look - you look well” 

“Thank- what are you doing here YN?” tones of confused sadness left Azriel, the anger towards you he felt so many years ago unable to be conjured back at will. He thought about this moment so often and yet, he couldn’t think of a single thing he’d said in those imaginary encounters.

“I-I’m meeting Mor, I-”

“Azriel, hey there you are!” The small beaming brunette Fae seemingly came from nowhere to his side, her hand tucking into his so effortlessly. You pushed every yearning thought from your head and plastered a smile onto your face that didn’t fully meet your eyes. 

“Maya, go tell Mor her sister is here, I’ll meet you inside” She raked her eyes up your and down your full body with such subtle brutality before kissing Azriel’s cheek goodbye, sauntering up the path to the house. 

“She seems nic-”

“She is” He almost bit, his eyes felt like daggers on your skin.

“I-”

“-What are you doing here YN?” his tone matched his eyes.

“I just came for the funeral”

“And now what?”

“I’m meeting Mor and then heading to our old place to stay” “And then?” “Then, I’m heading back to the continent” You weren't sure why you were answering, you suppose you owed him that much, the heat of his eyes making you feel vulnerable.

“I heard your writing is doing pretty well there, pretty well everywhere”

“Yeah”

“Hope it was worth it YN” Words like fire burning you all over, and yet you felt you deserved worse. He sighed when you didn't respond before pushing past you, following the path Maya had just trotted up.

“It wasn't," you said the words before you knew what you were saying, back towards him before looking over your shoulder, now fully meeting his eyes. He looked as though he was going to say something but Mor came flying out her front door.

“Sorry I'm late YN I was- oh, sorry am I interrupting something?”

“No Mor, I was just leaving” and then he did. Gone again.  

“How did that go?” Mor looped her arm through yours, prying you from leaning on the wall to head down the street again.

“Fine” you tried a smile and failed.

“You met Maya”

“Always one for sensitivity Mor” You smiled at your sister and she was instant apologies.

“I’m sorry, I forgot they were coming over tonight… Maya isn't anything like you if that helps. He went a bit off the walls when you left. Cassian thinks he's going to propose to that tonight, hope he's all wrong. He's totally settling especially since Rhys and Cass have their mates now. She's nothing like you and I think he knows that, just ignoring it. It's kinda sad and- oh hey YN I didn't mean to make you cry” she said the words like throwaway gossip, forgetting her audience only to have your rising tears land her back to earth. 

“No no it's okay Mor, I'm just going to go home”

“Aw come on, I'm sorry!” you stopped on the path, her soft eyes giving you no comfort. 

“Not as sorry as I am Mor” You took off then, in the direction of your old shared house.

-

You lay in your bed, rain threatening to come through the slate roof. Tossing and turning you finally decided to get up and wander your old house you had with Mor before meeting Azriel. Looking in drawers filled with old pictures, ones of you when you were a kid, playing with the Mor. More recent ones of you with Rhys, Cassian and Azriel,  Azriels arm draped around you. You ran your fingers over the tarnished picture, a tear dripping onto the film before you tucked it back into the worn drawer. 

You meandered through the living room, stopping at the old mahogany press. You knew what was in there and you didn't want to see it. Looking at that engagement ring again would be the end of you.

A loud banging came drumming against the door causing you to jump from the crushing thought. You wrapped the dressing gown tighter around yourself before opening the door to see the tormented, rain-soaked Illyrian before you. He waited for no invitation before blowing in past you, the cold leaking from him.

“I COULDN'T DO IT!”

“Do what Azriel?! What's wrong?!”

“I couldn't ask Maya to marry me! There's fucking caution tape around my heart because of you! I would have been fine if you had just left me alone to wallow in anger all those years ago I would have been fine! But No! I just had to fuck around and get attached to you!” He threw his arms in the air, words hot with anger. 

“You're blaming me for loving you?!” You found his words caused you your own irritation.

“Yeah! Yeah I am! You just had to pay attention to me! You just had to care about me! You just had to-”

“Had to what?! Had to love you!” you couldn’t believe you snapped out the words as they floated to his ears. 

“YEAH! AND YOU JUST HAD TO LEAVE ME!” Knives to your mind would have been less painful, he almost rattled in anger, a mere metre away from you, his shadows vibrating at his feet in anger. 

“I had to leave Azriel I wasn't ready!”

“YOU COULDN'T HAVE SAID THAT TO MY FACE!? BECAUSE YOU COULD HAVE! ANYTHING WOULD HAVE BEEN BETTER THAN STANDING UP ON THAT FUCKING ALTER WAITING FOR YOU!” his arms raised in the air with his words, causing you to flinch slightly. 

“Azriel-”

“When we were together what was the thing you always said to me?! It was that you wouldn't leave me, that you wouldn't abandon me like everyone else. YOU SAID YOU WOULDN'T AND YOU FUCKING DID!”

“I know Az I know” you were crying now, throwing yourself back on the couch, floods of memories of those very conversations threatening to drown you.

“You know?! Then why did you do it! The truth!”

“Elena came to me before the wedding and said all this stuff about what a wife should do and be and how I wasn't going to have time to write anymore and all the kids would be left to me and I wasn't ready! I WASN'T READY FOR THAT KIND OF PRESSURE THE ILLYRIANS WERE PUSHING ON ME!”

“YEAH! THE ILLYRIANS NOT ME! I NEVER EVER SAID ANYTHING LIKE THAT! NEVER EVEN THOUGHT IT!” you buried your head in your hands at his shouting, the action sending a ping of regret through Azriel but the repressed rage he felt towards you had to get out.

“You hurt me YN YLN. The wedding bells were just alarms to you”

“I don't know what to say but I want you to know that I understand that you hate me, I'll leave tomorrow, Ill go!” you swept the tears from your face, feeling you didn’t deserve to have them, the maker behind this mess.

“I missed you” his words completely caught you off guard as you brought yourself to look at him once again, his wild wrathful eyes replaced by utterly heartbroken ones.

“I miss you and I shouldn't. I can't move on from you! I haven't slept properly since you left! Every damn night it's a new nightmare and then I wake up and you're not there like you used to be and it's a different kind of nightmare! I miss you being there next to me at the dinner table, at Rita’s, at stupid fucking court functions, just doing absolutely fuck all with you! The number of times I thought about contacting you, visiting you, the amount of letters I wrote and never sent-” It was the first time he hadn't had a raised voice since he came into the house but being faced with the fallout of your actions in his ice tone made you miss the screaming to some degree.

“I'M SORRY! I AM WHAT ELSE CAN I SAY!” you found yourself shouting back, anything to deafen your inner voice.

“Do you miss me?” his icy tone melted slightly at your unfamiliar raised voice.

“Yes” you stood again from the sofa. 

“I'm with Maya”

“I know”

“But she's not you”

“No”

“I hate you YN" The words hurt every inch of your body, every cell felt searing unwavering pain, the sentence you never thought you’d hear him say. The familiar feeling of your lungs being strangled beat in your chest, unable to recover from the mortal wound.  You did what you did best and ran, out the door and into the rain-soaked Velarian streets.

“YN stop!” he followed you quickly as you made it halfway down the street, he would not have you slip from him again.

“No! I hurt you! I broke you and myself in the process all for selfish reasons and I still love you Azriel!” you went to run again but his firm hand on your forearm stopped you, spinning you to face him as his wild face dripped in rain.

“I hate that I love you YN”

“What?” you said softly over the thundering rain. Azriel looked from your face to over your shoulder. You turned to follow his eyes down the street, the plot of land haunting the other side of the Sidra.

“You ever wonder what we could have been? We were supposed to live there after we got married, we'd probably have kids and all now” his tone had softened at the sight of the overgrown plot.

“Yeah, we probably would” You stood next to him looking at the patch of home, you gave a weak smile.

“But you might not have your successful career”

“I'd have you, that would be worth more”

“You don't mean that YN”

“I do” he turned to completely face you then.

“Never thought I'd hear you say those words” You bit your lip and you could have sworn Azriel fought a slight smile at your discomfort.

“You should go propose to Maya -” Your mouth was betraying your heart “- And I should leave and live the life I chose because I can't be around the life I should be living”

“Do you think you'd want to live it if I gave you the choice now?” his eyes searched yours, fully softening for the first time since he landed on the doorstep. 

“I do”

“Yn I hate you and I love you but mostly I just hate that I love you” He felt no longer in control of his urges, leaning into you as he took hold of your soaked hips and leaned down to kiss swirls of what should have been and what could have taking you both over.

15 years later.

You lay down in the sun of the wildflower garden, your eyes took rest in the warm glow of the sun, taking a moment of rest after months of traveling with your new novel. 

“ARGH!” You shrieked at the rush of cold water soaking you down to your skin. 

“Azriel!” you bolted from where you lay, chasing your husband who clutched the hose down the length of the garden, only to be stopped dead by his sudden decrease in velocity. 

“Big mistake YNN” You looked at him puzzled only to hear the roaring laughter of your two children launch out of the hedges and armed with water balloons that they doused you with, gaining more screams of pure unadulterated joy. You collapsed to the grass as they overwhelmed you with their hysterics, climbing all over you, Azriel watching on so lovingly, so whole.

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

I promise the next fic will be more silly goofy! Let me know what you think!

[cutielando]

always and forever | c.l.

synopsis: in which it's you two forever

my masterlist

It had always been the two of you.

You had known each other since you were kids, starting as best friends and then evolving into a beautiful couple that stuck with each other through everything.

You were always there to cheer him up and make him feel better after bad races, he was always there when the hate from the fans was too much for you. You were a rock to each other.

Charles has had a bad year. Ferrari was doing worse than ever, he couldn't win races because of the car, people were putting pressure on him to perform and he just felt like he couldn't do it anymore without breaking down.

He's had his fair load of bad strategies, long pit stops, feeling like the team didn't support him and prioritized Carlos instead of him, overall just doing him dirty all year long.

It was now time for the last race of the season, Abu Dhabi. 

Like always, you were right next to your boyfriend, having taken time off work to make sure you could be there with him for the entire weekend.

You were currently in your hotel room, getting ready to go with Charles to the paddock ahead of qualifying that afternoon.

"I don't want to go" Charles said while he watched you do your hair, his heart swelling when he saw you wearing a Ferrari shirt with his name and number on the back.

"Why not? You love Abu Dhabi" you frowned in confusion, just now seeing how truly miserable he looked.

"I know how things will play out, so I don't even see the point of racing when I just now I'll disappoint everyone yet again" he shrugged, looking at his feet and playing with his fingers.

You put down the hair straightener that you were holding and stepped closer to him, taking his face in your hands and making him have no choice but to look at you.

"Mon amour, I know you've had a tough year, and nobody is blaming you for your results. Everyone sees that Ferrari is letting you down and they know you are doing the best you can with what you have. Stop worrying about what people are going to say and just go out there and do what you love the most. Race, have fun. Screw the results, I'm going to be proud of you no matter what place you end up on. But just go and have fun one last time this year and we'll come back stronger next year" by the time you finished speaking, Charles was biting his lip and a tear was threatening to spill from his eye.

"I love you so much, you know that?" he whispered and chuckled, his voice cracking at the end.

"I love you too, and I'm so proud of you, baby" you whispered before leaning in and capturing your lips in a passionate kiss.

Charles wrapped his arms tightly around your waist, pulling your body flush against his, wanting to be as close to you as humanly possible.

You were holding him just as tightly, your arms securely wrapped around his neck while one hand played with the small hairs at the back of his neck.

"Ready?" you asked once you pulled away, outstretching your hand towards him with an encouraging smile.

He nodded and took your hand, placing a kiss on the back of it.

"Let's go"

♡♡♡♡♡

The Ferrari garage was buzzing.

Engineers were running around, Charles and Carlos were deep into a conversation, Frederic was trying to keep everyone under control and you were just hanging around with Arthur, Charles' brother, shaking your head at the chaos that was the red Italian team.

"It's amazing hos disorganized they've been the entire year" Arthur quietly said into your ear, making sure nobody from the team could hear him.

"I know, it took a huge toll on Charles. He didn't even want to come today, it took me half an hour to persuade him to just go race and have some fun" you said, your eyes finding Charles every now and then.

He seemed a little calmer than he was back at your hotel while talking to Carlos, knowing that he enjoyed the Spaniard's company and honestly valued their friendship outside the track.

"I wonder if he'll stay at Ferrari next year" Arthur wondered, now also looking at his brother.

"You know he's still under contract, he wouldn't just leave them like that after 5 years" you explained, but on the inside you wished he would do just that.

Charles was one of the best drivers on the grid, everyone knew that. A lot of teams would love to have him in their line-up, including Red Bull and McLaren. You've spoken to Charles about potential offers and what he thought his future looked like, but you knew he would say loyal to Ferrari until the end of his contract.

"I know, but maybe he'll change his mind once the next season is done if Ferrari don't get a grip and improve, you know" Arthur explained, and you nodded.

"I hope so. We've talked about it, but he said he didn't want to think about that just yet" you said, dropping the subject once you saw your boyfriend making his way over to the two of you.

"What are you two plotting?" he teased, hugging Arthur before wrapping an arm around your waist and kissing your cheek.

"Nothing you should know" Arthur said, winking at the both of you before leaving to give you a moment before the start of the race.

You turned to Charles, studying his face.

"How are you feeling?" you asked quietly, taking a hold of his hands.

"I'm fine. I'm just going to go out there and drive the best I can, like I always do. Have some fun, just like you said. Have to listen to the wifey, right?" he smiled teasingly, the nickname making you blush heavily.

Charles had recently started calling you his "wifey" after having been together for 3 years. You often talked about the future and knew that you both wanted to spend the rest of your lives together and would take the next step when you both felt ready.

But what you didn't know was that the day might come sooner than you thought.

♡♡♡♡♡

Contrary to what everyone was expecting, Charles had managed to win the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. He drove so well, like his life depended on it and you couldn't have been more proud of him.

When it was time for the podium celebrations, you couldn't take your eyes off him as he received his much-wanted trophy, holding it up in the air and blowing you a kiss once he found you in the huge crowd.

Before the champagne shower could start, however, Charles asked for a microphone, putting his trophy down and looking nervously at Max and Lando, the teammates he shared the podium with.

"Wow. I can't believe we did it. We had a tough year at Ferrari this season, not being quite where we wanted, but we ended the season on a high note and I want to thank every single member of the team that made this all possible" he said, putting the mic down to give a round of applause for everyone.

You followed suit, your eyes never leaving him.

"Secondly, I want to thank a special person, but I need her up here with me. Y/N, will you come up here, please?" he asked, the lights suddenly finding you in the crowd.

Your eyes widened, a heavy blush coating your cheeks. Charles' PR manager found you in the crowd and helped lead you upstairs towards the podium, giving you a silent encouragement before she let you step out.

The crowd was cheering when they say you standing next to your boyfriend, prompting you to give them a small wave before turning to Charles.

"Y/N, there aren't enough that can express how much I love you and how deeply grateful I am to have you in my life. You've been with me throughout this entire journey, 4 years now already you've put up with me. You know me better than I know myself, you always know what to say and how to make me feel better after a bad race, you're always there for me, cheering me on and supporting me through everything and I can't thank you enough for it all" he spoke, putting his hand in his pocket and taking out a small, velvet box.

Your eyes instantly widened and filled with tears, knowing what was about to happen. Your hands went up to your mouth, not believing it was finally happening.

"I never want to know what my life would look like without you in it because I plan on spending every second left of it cherishing you and being by your side. So, Y/N Y/L/N, will you make me the happiest man on Earth and marry me?" opening the box, you saw the most beautiful diamond ring you had ever laid your eyes on, making your tears freely swim down your cheeks.

You didn't trust your voice, so you nodded your head feverishly, falling to your knees in front of him and collapsing into his arms, holding on for dear life.

You cried into his shoulder, holding onto each other tightly. The crowd erupted into loud cheers, Max and Lando opening the champagnes and spraying everyone around them, congratulating the two of you.

You pulled away from the hug and kissed Charles, pouring every single emotion you felt in that moment into the kiss. 

"Do you want the ring?" his tone was teasing once you pulled away and he still held the ring in his hand.

You laughed, nodding and extending your hand towards him.

He took out the ring and gently pushed it onto your ring finger, it fitting like it was made just for you.

"I love you so much, amour. I cannot wait to spend the rest of my days with you" you whispered, bringing him in for another hug.

"I promised you always and forever, I intend to keep that promise"

And as you stood kneeling in the middle of the podium, celebrations taking place all around you, the only thing you focused on was each other, nothing able to burst your little bubble of bliss.

Your always and forever love.

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[yandere-sins]

Okay so I feel a bit silly about this, but I just have to ask at some point. To keep it short, I wonder if Dr Ratio has already had his first time and if he even has sex often. I mean he is a grown adult at all. Don't see me as a horny Dr Ratio simp, I'm just interested and little things like that always make me like a character even more. I would be happy if you would answer this question :)♡

Why feel silly? We love all kinds of sexual status here, especially when it's someone as delicious as Ratio! Also, I appoint you simp from now on, because we should be simping for him (but don't be like me and have him in your team just for aesthetics bc my Ratio makes no damage at all! :D And that's okay... :'D)

As wonderful as our Doc is, this is a very open-to-interpretation question. You can honestly go both ways with him, and we'll never know because... he probably wouldn't even tell or show any signs to his darling how much experience he has once he gets with them ;)

Maybe he is a virgin and a very stoic and pathetic one at that. In his pursuit of making knowledge more accessible to every "idiot", there isn't much time for personal needs. I totally see him pass out from sleep deprivation despite being horny and then suppress his morning wood with a cold shower, even though he's really not happy about it. No one knows why he's so upset, but they all avoid him on mornings like that. There's no way he never put a hand on himself in all these years, but he won't know the blessing that comes when someone else does it, until he meets his darling.

It's an instant game over for him, Veritas unable to form a complete sentence when he first meets you, his cock springing up, precum staining his clothes. It threatens to burst out of his pants, hard and agitated and in desperate need to be treated to its first experience of intercourse. He tries to play it cool with a faint blush on his cheeks, tries his usual spiel of pretending he's better than you after catching his composure immediately, always gauging your reactions and wanting to see them to fuel his desire. All while completely hiding the fact that he wants to drop to his knees and hump your feet.

That night, jerking off is more like ripping off as he just can't stop the thoughts of you invading his mind and making him hard again and again. His whole bed is sullied, the tissue box empty, the Doctor is panting and blushing and immediately reminded of how plump and soft your lips were. Or your ass as you walked away from him. The sparkle in your eyes and the few exposed spots of skin in your outfit. And then his thoughts are going wild with you bent over on his bed, exposing yourself to him, your giggles and moans replaying in his ears, although he made all of them up. Honestly, he's a bit ashamed afterward for losing his composure quite like that.

It doesn't make him any less pathetic when he finally gets his hands on you. You might be fighting and hating him, but he tied you up exactly the way he needs so he can fuck your thighs or pry your pretty lips open to stuff your mouth with his thick cock. And you never disappoint him in that regard. You'll still be as amazing, making him cum almost instantly the first few times, after being with him for years. Ratio will still yearn for the warmth of your body around his dick decades down the line, and he'll greet you with the same enthusiasm (just more stamina and better technique) every time he comes home to you. You two really grow together; isn't that sweet? ;)

OR

Man's still stoic and pathetic, but not with all those partners he had over the years, oh no. It's really bothersome to him to actually let one of those groupies get a piece of his cake, and he doesn't do it because his mind wants to. But it's just normal to fulfill a need he has, right? Veritas doesn't bed some random person (who found him super hot and practically ogled him all evening) for pleasure or enjoyment. Even less for payment, though some people try to buy his time and affection.

In short, he's a miserable lover.

We should feel bad for the people thinking he's going to blow their minds. It's not like he hurts them or anything, but he does his thing and leaves, telling anyone who's confused and dissatisfied that he didn't enjoy it much, either. He got to finish; that's all that matters to him. He's really awful to these poor souls; we can't deny it.

But then he met you, and everything changed. You are constantly on his mind, the underside of his table stained with remnants of cum as he savagely had to jerk himself up to free his thoughts again. But it doesn't really help, and he imagines doing things with you on his table, books, honestly, everywhere. Ratio has to flee any function if someone there happens to have the same perfume as you because he cannot control himself once reminded of you. And in the bitterness of moaning your name in an empty room, his cock mangled and still hard despite previous jerk-off sessions, he decided he has to have you, just so he can get a remnant of himself back. 

He is reading up on how to be a better lover as he fingers you simultaneously, observing your reactions and even going down on you... for research, of course. No one knew he'd get drunk on bringing you pleasure. On learning that the reason you were feeling so damn good was his work. Sure, it boosts his ego, but you have no idea what it does to him to see your eyes dazed, your expression twisting. He teases you, but it gets him off quicker than anything else when you admit how good you feel. He'll be grinning from ear to ear the following day, remembering what you said, only to pretend he wasn't reveling in the memories when you catch him. He loves teasing you, kissing every part of your body while you squirm, knowing it turns him even more on than it does you. It's a good thing you need so much convincing, so he can satisfy his greed for you plenty before the real deal begins.

Suddenly, sex is so much more interesting when he does it with you, no matter how much you complain in the beginning—your moans say otherwise. You may hate him, but gods, does he love the look on your face when you're overstimulated, and Ratio is only getting started, making you arch your back as he plunges into you, your legs quivering around his head. Drawing out the act and letting you 'suffer' is so much more delicious and enjoyable than anything he had with another person before. He doesn't even wonder if it would have changed anything for his feelings had he done his research with the partners he fucked before. Only you can make his heart race, get him drunk on your juices, and look like an angel in his sheets covered in his cum. It's only you, it's only ever been you, and he'll never let that go.

Because no matter how much you simp for him, he'll always simp more for you ;)

[chuuya-kisser]

im finally free so that i can fucking scream abt bsd 117 and tell my thoughts on this heartbreaker of a chapter (will def make another post feeding my delusions)

(spoilers utc)

firstly.

ASAGIRI. WHAT THE ACTUAL FUXK ASAGIRI. ASAGIRI WHEN I CATCH YOU ASAGIRI I THOUGHT YOU WERE KILLING-YOUR-CHARACTERS-PHOBIC?????? NOW YOUVE MELTED TWO IMPORTANT CHARACTERS IN TWO CHAPTERS???? WHOS GONNA GO NEXT CHAPTER HUH WHO'S NEXT IN YOUR DEATH NOTE

well

Uh yeah so anyways basically heart broken for multiple reasons so we'll go in order

1- aya. oh my gosh aya. shes what, a ten year old?????? and in the span of a day, she has found out about a vampire lord who is responsible for destroying or saving the whole world, shouldered the responsibility of getting said vampire lord away from the enemy to save the world, developed a father-daughter relationship with said vampire lord, sacrificed herself and got saved by him, believed that the world could be saved now, saw her new father figure's body be torn apart and replaced by a greasy ratass who wants to destroy everything or whatever, with said new father's last words telling her to run to save herself, being saved by said father, then having him dissolve and die again in front of her eyes again. shes a ten year old. what the actual fuck. oh and don't forget, she doesn't know that she lost her other father figure too!

gosh she is going to be SO traumatised and even that is an understatement i really hope she has the strength to recover

2- so akutagawa is back huh? about time, about time (though im not very happy about the cost it took- but atleast he's back?)and he has agreed to protect aya on brams wish? thats surprising honestly, so im wondering if the stuff atsushi told him while fighting him at the airport or whatever affected his subconscious or something so that he consciously wants to start protecting people?

OR maybe! he sees a bit of himself in aya or smth? i mean look i dont exactly remember what happened before he met dazai and was taken in by him okay, dont come at me. but maybe he sees that terrified little kid and something stirs in him or smth anyways go akutagawa go you're her third father figure please dont die again ‼️

(also he looks so good-)

3- and the biggest bombshell

kunikida.

KUNIKIDA‼️‼️ NO NO NO THIS IS NOT ACTUALLY HAPPENING PEOPLE THIS IS NOT I REFUSE TO BELIEVE IT I AM IN DENIAL

just- THINK ABOUT EVERYONE. think about atsushi and tanizaki. who saw him disappear slowly in front of their eyes, to buy them time. think about fukuzawa. who wished for kunikida to be the next president because he was the most ideal. who cares so much, even if he doesnt show it as much. think about aya. she has such a deep bond with kunikida, and now she'll have to face the devastating news that one of the only people who truly believed in her is gone too. think about ranpo and yosano.

think about dazai. who is much too far away to do anything right now, who miscalculated once which led to him being too far to stop fyodors rampage in any way. who was truly doing all this because he wanted to keep the detective agency safe. who, when he realises what will happen next, his first thought is to warn them. who was his new partner, kept him alive, even made him a part of his schedules. who i think he must have to care for, even a little bit.

dazai, who thinks that anything worth wanting is always lost the moment he obtains it. and its happened again. and by the looks of it, it will happen again.

i genuinely want to know how he'll react but i dont want to at the same time. gods i cant fucking do this man

like huhhh asagiri are you tryna make me cry or some shit???? Because youre succeesing SPECTACULARLY

also- are we gonna see tanizaki get liquefied too next chapter? because this panel sure looks like it

im scared for september now like what else are you gonna throw at us, huh asagiri? and what do you mean i have to wait a whole month this is crazy

and i am STILL in denial and will continue to be in denial guys wdym, ofc kunikida is alive and well! hes coparenting aya with bram, having fun at the agency and stuff ‼️‼️ hes perfectly peachy theres no helicopter singularity out for everyone's lives!!! (wow this post is LONG)

[tip-top-cloud-surfer]

Head Over Heels - Goose

Pairing: Nick "Goose" Bradshaw / Fem!Reader (Nicknamed Honey)

Word Count: 1.5k

This work, all my works, and my entire blog is 18+ Only.

Warnings: Accidents; Referenced Bad Dates; Slight Self-Loathing; Female Reader with No Description, No "Y/N" or "You," Nicknamed "Honey"

Summary: Goose goes on a bad date and wants to give up. Maverick tells him that he just can't sit around and wait for the perfect girl to come around. Except fate has other plans.

Note: Set pre-Top Gun 1986. No Carole in this universe. She's off living her best life elsewhere. Bradley's not here (but maybe he'll come later? We'll see)

Master List

“I’m hopeless, Mav! Absolutely hopeless!” Goose complained, holding his face in his hands.

“You are not hopeless,” Maverick assured Goose, though his expression gave away his real opinion. “Just a little . . . rusty.”

The two were walking down the boardwalk after a disaster of a double date with two women that they met in town. And to say that it was a complete mess would have been generous. It all started with a spilled glass of water and ended with Maverick getting whacked in the face with a purse while defending Goose’s honor.

“Mav, let’s just face facts,” Goose sighed, turning to his pilot and best friend. “I’m hopeless, I have no idea how to impress women, and I’ll probably die alone because of it.”

“Goose, you’re overreacting,” Maverick cut in, clapping his best friend on his shoulder. “She just wasn’t the one. Anywhere near the one. But, hey, there’s got to be some girl out there who’ll be the perfect match to you. I can sense it.”

“But where the hell is she Mav?” Goose sighed, starting to walk along again.

“I don’t know, Goose, you’ve got to go out and look for her. The perfect girl isn’t just going to fall into your arms,” Maverick replied, shaking his head.

“Watch out!” a voice suddenly called out.

Goose turned just in time to see a woman on a pair of roller skates heading towards him. He had about a split second to react. Reaching out his arms as a reflex, Goose managed to catch her as she tripped on the uneven wooden paneling on the ground. Her momentum caused them to both dip towards the ground until they were rolling together.

Goose managed to stop their rolling and found himself staring down at the most beautiful woman that he had ever set his sights on. She stared up at him with wide eyes, panting a bit, and resting her hand on his firm chest. He didn’t know her name, but Honey just felt right. She looked sweet, just like honey, and he wouldn’t mind a—no, Goose, no, he scolded himself.

“Hi,” Goose breathed out, memorizing by the literal angel that crashed into him.

“Hi,” Honey returned, similarly dazed.

“Jesus Christ, are you two alright!?” Maverick yelled, startling the two of them back to reality.

“I’m so sorry!” Honey immediately yelped, trying to scramble up. “Are you hurt?”

“No, no, I’m fine,” Goose replied, getting up and keeping a hold on her hand to steady her. “Just a little dust. Nothing more.”

“Are you sure?” she asked, glancing over his form for any scratches.

“Yeah, it’ll take more than that to take me out,” Goose chuckled, holding her steady as she slipped a bit on her skates. “Are you alright?”

“Just a bit embarrassed,” she sighed, grabbing Goose a bit tighter. “This is what I get for trying to be someone that I’m not.”

And no sooner had she finished her sentence then Honey slipped towards the ground. Luckily, Goose had quick reflexes and managed to wrap his arms around her before she fell to the ground again. Of course, his maneuver ended up with her hanging in his arms like they were dancing partners and he was dipping her for some romantic move, which caused them both to grow even more flustered.

Maverick glanced between Goose and Honey with wide eyes. Glancing up at the sky and then down at his own hands for a moment, Maverick quietly wondered if he somehow summoned this woman to this exact spot.

“Why don’t we get you over to a bench?” Goose suggested with a chuckled, straightening her up again.

“That’s probably for the best,” she agreed, letting Goose help her over to a wooden bench.

Carefully setting her down on the bench, Goose kneeled down in front of Honey and started to untie the skates on her feet. Maverick hid a smirk behind his hand when he saw just how flustered and pleased Honey looked as Goose helped her with her skates.

Maybe he was wrong. Maybe Goose just needed to stand there and let fate do the work for him.

“There, now you’re safe,” Goose joked, setting the two skates beside her on the bench.

“Thank you,” she replied meekly, still highly embarrassed. “And I’m so sorry about running into you.”

“Don’t sweat it,” Goose assured her with a kind smile. “But, can I ask why you’re skating around the boardwalk if you . . .?”

“Can’t skate?” Honey offered with a laugh. “My friend somehow managed to rope me into it.”

“Where’s your friend then?” Goose asked her.

The call of her actual name caused Goose, Maverick, and Honey to turn around to see another woman quickly skating towards them. She was more than likely the friend who indirectly caused the whole interaction based on the way that Honey sheepishly waved to her.

“Penny, I told you that this was a bad idea,” Honey sighed, gesturing towards the skates. “I was this close to going into the water. And I accidentally tackled him along the way.”

“Better than most linebackers,” Maverick joked, smiling brighter as he turned to face Penny. Well, if Goose got a beautiful girl to pay attention to him, why should Maverick get the same opportunity? “I’m Pete, Pete Mitchell. But you can call me Maverick. And the sack of potatoes that your friend took down is my RIO Goose.”

“Goose?” Honey repeated, sounding confused.

“You two are naval aviators?” Penny asked curiously, glancing between Maverick and Goose with newfound interest.

“It’s a callsign,” Goose explained to Honey. “My real name is Nick. You can call me whatever you prefer. I answer to both.”

“Goose somehow seems to fit you more,” Honey mused, turning to Goose again with a bashful smile.

“I think so,” Goose agreed, his cheeks literally aching from how hard he was smiling.

“Are you two free the rest of tonight?” Penny asked, shooting a knowing smirk at her friend. “We were just going to grab some dessert down at the end of the boardwalk. If you two are interested.”

“Well, it would be completely rude and downright unchivalrous if we didn’t take them up on their offer. Wouldn’t it, Goose?”

“It would,” Goose quickly blurted out before he turned to Honey. “Unless, of course, you think it wouldn’t be.”

“No, no, you should come,” Honey agreed, grabbing his hand. “So that I can properly thank you for the mess that I created.”

“Well, I can’t say ‘no’ to that,” Goose stated with a wide smile.

“Great, it’s settled! Let’s go,” Penny urged, gesturing down the boardwalk.

“Penny, we should grab our real shoes first,” Honey insisted, standing up. “I can’t walk barefoot all the way down there. And the parking lot is just up there.”

“I can carry you,” Goose offered, causing Honey’s eyes to widen a bit.

“Are you sure?”

“Don’t let the chicken frame throw you off,” Maverick vouched on Goose’s behalf. “He’s stronger than he looks.”

“Thanks, Mav,” Goose hissed out, shooting his best friend a look.

“Great! Goose will carry you to the car and then we’ll all grab dessert together,” Penny stated, leaving no room for argument.

“You don’t have to carry me,” Honey assured Goose, but he simply smiled in return.

“No, no, I insist. Here, you can climb up onto my back,” Goose offered, turning around.

With some careful maneuvering, Honey clambered up onto Goose’s back and the new group of four headed up to Honey’s car. Goose and Honey fell into their own separate conversation from Penny and Maverick, who seemed to have instantly clicked. They reached Honey’s car in no time and with a quick shoe change, they were on their way down to the ice cream shop.

“So, what would you prefer me to call you?” Goose asked Honey, who smiled up at him.

“You can call me . . . tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow? What kind of—oh,” Goose quickly caught on, causing Honey to giggle a bit. “Sorry, that wasn’t smooth at all.”

“I think it’s cute,” Honey replied, smiling at Goose bashfully.

“I think they’re so cute,” Penny whispered to Maverick, grabbing his arm lightly. “It’s been so long since she felt confident around a guy. She gets flustered so easily and they all make fun of her.”

“Goose isn’t like that at all. He’s a complete gentleman,” Maverick assured Penny, glancing back at Goose and Honey. “And between you and me, his confidence has been shot. The last couple of dates that he’s been on were disasters.”

“Who knows? Maybe they’re just what each other needs,” Penny mused before turning to Maverick. “So, tell me about yourself, Maverick.”

[wxnheart]

I love your writing! And I especially love how you write the CoD boys 😫❤️ can I please request a scenario or headcanons (whatever you’re ok with!) for how Ghost, Soap, and König would react to their f!s/o one day cutting her long hair and getting like a short pixie cut?

I recently cut mine and even though I love it, I get a little self conscious haha so this may be a self indulgent request 😭 thank you and keep being wonderful!!

𝐋𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐚𝐢𝐫, 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞? - 𝐆𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐭, 𝐊ö𝐧𝐢𝐠, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐨𝐚𝐩 𝐱 𝐅!𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫

note: aw, I love this for you, anon! It was a gradual process for me, too, before I went natural. I went from shoulder-length hair to a pixie cut to a mohawk to a big chop. I'm 1,000% sure that you look amazing with your pixie cut!

𝐆𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐭

Oh. Holy shit, you actually went through with it. Simon is speechless.

You'd always talked about it but he didn't think you were serious about it, really.

But in hindsight, he should've known. The signs were there. You sent him a series of pictures with different pixie cuts, asked for his opinion, and so he gave it.

But now? Seeing you in the flesh with your new hairstyle? Holy shit, baby. You look beautiful.

Simply put, Simon loves it. Makes you look more badass. Also really emphasizes that radiant smile of yours, too.

𝐊ö𝐧𝐢𝐠

Schatz, is that... is that you?

König is surprised. Well, surprised is an understatement but we'll use it for the time being.

You really cut your hair. He so loved to run his fingers over it. It helped soothe him whenever he was feeling anxious.

Change is something that he's never adapted to readily and while he'll miss your beautiful tresses, he can't take his eyes off you. He's staring more than he usually does.

König notices features that he's never really paid attention to before and he likes them. He likes them a lot. Oh, Schatz... he's falling in love all over again.

𝐒𝐨𝐚𝐩

Johnny's the quintessential kid in a candy store, he's so fucking excited.

Fuck yes, you did it! He knew you could rock a pixie cut! Always knew you could, you just needed to see for yourself!

Has the most overwhelming response to seeing your new 'do. Calls you beautiful right off the bat.

Of course, you've always been beautiful and he loves how your haircut brings attention to your eyes, undoubtedly one of the things about you he loves the most.

And hell yeah, you'll be a badass-looking couple! Soap's that proud partner who's beaming (when isn't he?) like fuck in your presence and will absolutely show Ghost a picture of your new haircut. ("She's fucking beautiful, yeah?" "Never said she wasn't, Johnny." "Yeah, but you never said she was, Lt." "...Oh, fucking hell.")

[creamecafe]

A Chance to Say Goodbye | Joaquin Torres

Summary: Y/N and Joaquin get into a serious argument after Joaquin got injured badly trying to stop the Flag-Smashers.

Pairing: Joaquin Torres x Fem!Reader

Warnings: angst, fighting, eventual fluff at end, swearing

Word Count: ??

Author's Note: One of my works that I started when I was around 14 years old but never got to post.

Feedback is much appreciated!

Read on Wattpad here!

It had been a fine, regular day. You were at home while your boyfriend Joaquin was in Switzerland.

You worried about him constantly if he was ok, if he was injured. But most importantly, is he alive? You try to brush off the thought as you were trying to keep the house clean. Dating Joaquin is both amazing but it can also come with it's challenges.

He can be a bit stubborn at times and gets himself into danger, even though he's a Air Force lieutenant and he chose this job because he wanted to protect people.

You appreciated that part about him. He wanted to help other people. He didn't have superpowers or super human strength, but it's the most he can do such as protecting his country. But with so many people he helps, you wonder, if one day, he'll be able to save himself.

All of the pondering and thinking got interrupted, when you suddenly got a call from a unknown number. You picked it up.

'Hello?"

"Hello, am I speaking with Y/N L/N?"

"Depends on who's asking"

"This is the Switzerland hospital, we're here with Joaquin Torres."

Your heart skips a beat.

"Oh no...what happened? Is everything alright with him?"

"Yes and no. He was beaten up by a terrorist group that is wanted called the "Flag-Smashers". He tried to stop them but he got punched multiple times and had a hard time breathing due to how hard they threw him on the ground."

The tears in your eyes were starting to form already. Your worst nightmare has finally become reality.

"Oh my God. I can't believe it. What is the state he's in now?"

"Right now he can walk fine but the bruises on his face can take time to heal."

"Is the group found? Did anyone see their faces?"

"At the moment no, but we'll update you with information about the group. We're setting up transportation for Joaquin Torres to return due to his condition."

"He'll return where?"

"He'll return to [the house you live in]. We'll drop him off at the airport."

"Ok what time would I expect to pick him up?"

"In about 3 hours if that's ok with you miss."

"Yes it's alright with me."

"Ok, again I'm sorry about the condition of Joaquin ma'am. We might have to call him for questioning about what he saw that night but other than that we want to make sure he's doing well."

"Thank you, very much. I appreciate it, a lot."

"You have a good day miss."

"You too thank you."

You hung up the phone, slowly put the phone on the counter and just took a deep breath. The thought of Joaquin being hurt was too much. What if it had been worse? What if he had been killed?

You try to relax as you have to pick up Joaquin from the airport in 2 ½ hours. You went to the bathroom to take a shower and after take a nap. An alarm was set in your phone to let you know when it's time to pick up your boyfriend.

An hour ½ passed and your alarm rang. You went to get ready and drove to the airport 15 minutes away from your home. You waited in front of the area, trying to see Joaquin. Luckily (not really) the bruises on his face made him stand out in which it made him easy to spot.

He sees your car and smiles, but he can only smile small and not a huge one as he always does when sees you due to the pain that happens. He goes up to the passenger side and opens the car. He gets inside and puts his bag in the back.

"Hi baby." He smiles again leaning in for a kiss.

"Hi" You said not leaning in back with a cold stare

It doesn't take long for Joaquin to know that you are upset, besides the fact you guys have been dating since before the blip.

The ride home was a painfully silent ride. You didn't want it to be one, but you felt like you had to make it clear you weren't happy with the choice Joaquin made confronting those terrorists by themselves, especially without backup or Sam there with him.

Soon enough you guys made it home. You went inside, not waiting for Joaquin, while he was getting his bag from the back of your car. You guys went inside of your home and still no conservation.

"Baby I'm going to take a shower and maybe we can watch a movie together? I'll make the popcorn and you choose the movie tonight." Joaquin heads up to the stairs.

"A movie night? Seriously, after what happened, you want to do a movie night? We're not going to address the elephant in the room?"

His back was facing you but he sighed knowing this wouldn't be easy to drop. He turned to you

"What you did that night was probably the most idiotic, mindless, stupid shit you could have done, that I know of."

"I know that-"

"You couldn't wait for backup or Sam to be there? You just wanted to be the hero in the situation, instead you became a victim and got attacked. You're no stronger or bigger than the Avengers, you could die Joaquin."

"Babe, please you have nothing worry about, it's alright."

"Alright? Alright? You think putting yourself in danger and making me so worried every night that you may not come home is alright to me?"

Joaquin looks down.

"Do you think I like having the thought that I might have to bury my boyfriend one day? Or I get a knock on the door, hearing the news that you died during a mission or I get a call? Your voice starts to break.

"Baby, Y/N," Joaquin comes closer

"I'm sorry. It's just," You swallow trying to hold back tears.

"You know everything that has happened these past 6 years, it's just that if something happens to you, I don't even get a chance to say goodbye or I love you for the last time. That's what I'm afraid of."

Joaquin walks up to you, taking in his arms and just holds you. He sways just like a mother would do for their child in a crib so they they can calm down.

Your tears and running nose stains his sweater, but he doesn't care about that right now. All he cares about is how your feeling. He plants a sweet, tender kiss to the top of your head. He then pulls back and you both look at each other. He smiles, while your tears were visible to the fact it was rolling down your face.

"I promise nothing will happen to me. And I'm sorry to make you worried, truly I am."

You smile realizing you can't be mad at him any more longer. All you can do is be grateful is that he's here in this moment with you, holding you. You cup his bruised face, he winces a bit but doesn't back away.

You kiss him passionately. He does the same back. He cups your face with one hand and holds your waist. You both pull apart to take some air. You can't help but laugh with the tears rolling down your face.

"I love you, Y/N."

"I love you too, Joaquin."

"About that movie night?"

"Ok we can do it. But I'm picking the movie."

"Fine with me, I do the popcorn."

You both smile and the rest of the night you cuddle together soundly watching [your favourite movie inserted].

Thanks for reading! Don't forget to heart, reblog, share, comment what you think, and follow for more works! You can also find me on Wattpad and my other socials in my bio. Feedback is always much appreciated!

Have a great day/night or wherever you live around the world!

[into-crazy]

don't wanna miss a thing

》 chapter 3

Negan Smith x Female Reader

Non-apocalyptic AU // The Walking Dead AU

Other Characters(mentioned): Rick Grimes, Lori Grimes, and Carl Grimes

Summary: You get harassed by some guys on your way home and someone comes to your rescue. They walk you home, reflecting on moments from your shared past.

Warnings- mature language, alcohol consumption, age gap(reader's in her early 20s), slow burn, angst, comfort, fluff, ages 18+

Other chapters & info -> RIGHT HERE

💕divider by @saradika-graphics

It was a painful walk down the driveway.

Even in your state, you still respectfully chose not to cut through the grass for a shortcut. Rick was proud of his grass, he worked hard to keep it nice and healthy. But now that you were finally out of there you let your tears fall freely.

You were so fucking stupid. Completely delusional to think that you could ever be with Negan. Who were you kidding? There was never a chance. You're just a kid to him. You've always been, and he'll never see you as anything other than that. Though what hurt you even more was seeing that he had his eyes set on someone else. You know that you have no right to be upset. Negan doesn't owe you anything, he can be with who ever he wants. However it doesn't stop the fact that deep down inside of you it still hurt.

Reaching the sidewalk, you turn towards your house and continue on. The sun is close to setting, casting long shadows all over the ground. That is how you noticed a vehicle coming up from behind, by it's shadow. At first you didn't think anything of it, assuming that it was going to keep going in the direction it was heading. But then it suddenly slowed and someone called out to you from the passenger window.

"Hey there, cutie!"

Wiping your eyes, you look up to see that it's a group of guys in a small SUV. They look like they could be high school seniors or college freshmen. Blasting their music loud enough for the whole street to hear. Whatever they were listening to it's rather obnoxious.

"Where are you heading off to?" The same guy from the passenger window asks you. You spot the can of beer in his hand. Well that's great, they're drinking in a moving vehicle. Hopefully they have a designated driver.

"No where," you return indifferently. "I'm just going home."

"She's not into you bro." The driver states to him lowly.

However he brushes it off and tries again. "Shut up man.. So we're uh, heading over to a party tonight over on the east side. How about I get your number and maybe I could see you there?"

The way he asked you felt as though he wasn't even asking you at all. It sounded more like a demand. That or he was rather confident that you were going to give him your number. Either way you weren't interested.

"No thanks." You toss back, hoping that they'll get the hint and move on.

Your rejection is heard by the other guys, they immediately poke fun at their friend. Which only stirs him on more.

He then attempts to cover up his embarrassment with a laugh, licking his lips before replying, "well see, that doesn't work for me sweetheart."

You stop in your tracks, turning to look at him in shock and wondering if you had heard that right. The arrogant smirk on his face indicates that you had. You hated hearing the word sweetheart come from his mouth. All of a sudden you start to feel very exposed. Remembering that you are wearing nothing but a bikini because your clothes are in your bag. It doesn't help that every one of those guys are leering at you like you're a hooker selling on the street. You nervously clutch on to the bag around your shoulder.

He opens his mouth again to speak. "So how about it? Give me your number and we'll meet up. Then I can fix that little attitude problem you got." He winks at you while his friends laugh and exchange high fives.

This whole situation makes your stomach churn. You want nothing more for them to leave you alone. Anger bubbles up in your throat too quickly before you can contain it.

"I said no!" You snap at him. "Now do me a favor and fuck off!"

He scoffs at that. "You bitch!"

He launches his beer at you from the window. Luckily it misses you. Instead it lands right by your feet. The can smashes against the concrete with a loud crashing sound and beer slashes all over your feet. It startles you into dropping your bag on the floor.

Everyone in the car breaks out into a laughing fit. You, well you stand there. Dumbfounded and utterly defeated. And you didn't think this day could get any worse, yet it had. This was the soggy cherry on top of a shit sundae.

"Hey!" A voice is unexpectedly heard from behind you, snapping the guys out of their guffawing.

The one who launched the beer motions at the driver to go. "Oh shit, let's go!"

The car speeds off as Negan rushes over to your side. It catches you by surprise, because what is he doing here?

"That's it- get the hell out of here!" He shouts at the car before mumbling under his breath, "little pricks." He then turns his attention towards you. "Hey.. you okay?"

You break down in tears, hugging yourself for comfort. Negan wraps his jacket around your shoulders to cover you up. Then he pulls you close, wrapping his arms around you. You hug him back tightly and sob into his chest. Not caring anymore as you let it all go.

"I know, it's alright. I've got you now." His voice is low and soft as he strokes your hair. "Come on, let's get you home."

You nod at that, using the back of your hand to wipe away your tears. He collects your bag off the ground and walks you the rest of the way to your house.

"Rick send you to check on me?"

A scoff leaves his lips, "No. Rick didn't send me to do shit. I came because I wanted to make sure my girl got home safely. Good thing I did, too."

Negan calling you his girl would have brought a smile and a blush to your face, if you weren't still upset.

Coming up to the front door, he thinks of what to say. "Listen I uh.." his sentence trails off as he gently hands you your bag. "You should go on inside. I can come by for the jacket tomorrow."

There's no response or movement from you. When he turns to leave you snap up to look at him. "Stay?"

He immediately stops at that. Meeting your sad eyes, he doesn't say anything.

"Please stay with me for a while?" You plead quietly, hands clutching tighter on to the jacket.

Sighing deeply, he takes a second to ponder on it before agreeing. "Alright."

It's silent again as you unlock the door and step inside. He follows right after you, taking the liberty of closing and locking the door behind him. The chill of the air inside brushes against your skin, making you shiver. It didn't help that your hair was still damp from the pool.

Negan notices that you're cold. "You wanna go get cleaned up and put on something comfortable?" You flash him a worried pout and he chuckles. "Don't worry, I'll wait down here for you. I won't sneak out or anything. Promise."

You take his word for it. But before you ascend up the stairs you make a suggestion, "I don't want to come back down afterwards. Would you come up with me? You can wait in my room."

His eyes widen, he's taken aback by your invitation. Even though it was an innocent request it was rather unexpected, and that was what threw him off. Plus he's never seen or been in your room before. He briefly clears his throat, "I mean, sure. Is that what you want?"

"Yes," you return. "I just.. I'd feel better knowing you're close by. Knowing that I'm not alone."

There was no way he could say no to you. He hums and follows you up the stairs all the way to your bedroom.

The sun had finally set, casting the last bit of light through the curtains into your room. You navigate through the dimly lit space to turn on a table lamp beside your bed. As the light flicks on Negan takes in your bedroom for the first time. It was certainly a reflection of your personality, and that in itself made him feel welcome. He notices that you didn't change rooms since you're not in the master. He doubts that your aunt took it over either but that's a question he'll save for another day.

You scramble around, picking a few things up from the floor and moving others out of the way. Negan stood there, lazily following your movements. You collect a fresh pair of clothes from the dresser and let out a small sigh, "I'm going to go wash up."

He keeps his focus on you as you slide off his jacket and set it down on the bed. "Take your time. I'll be here." He assures.

"Feel free to sit on the bed if you want. I won't mind." And with that, you leave the room.

Negan decides to look around some more. He caught a glimpse of a photo collage on the wall, so he went over for a closer look. There were pictures of your parents, some with the three of you together. All with huge smiles and warm vibes. There were a couple snaps of the Grimes, looking like the picture perfect family as usual. One photo was of him and your dad in the garage, laughing as they posed for the camera. Negan remembers all the good times he'd spent with him.

He then came across the only photo of you and him up there. Right in the middle, it was a selfie you'd taken with him a while back. Your smile was so bright, and he couldn't help but notice the glimmer in your eyes. He really liked that photo. Negan spots your camera on the desk near the pictures. He remembers how you used to carry it everywhere, capturing the moments up on the wall above. You don't carry it around anymore, not since your parents..

A few more steps and he finds himself by the window. Peaking through the curtains, he's got a perfect view of his house from here. Everything from his driveway to the front door. It makes him wonder if you've ever watched him from here.

The sound of the door creaking brings him to turn, finding you coming back into the room. Your hair is damp from the shower this time, and you're wearing a pair of sleep shorts and a cropped tshirt. It was a bit revealing, however the man has already seen you in a bikini so you didn't think much of it. Besides, he'd told you to put on something comfortable and what better than the close you sleep in.

He looks you over briefly. "Feeling better?"

"Yeah, I needed that." You admit. There's a guilty look on your face, like you have something you need to confess. A secret that you can no longer contain. Inhaling sharply you breathe out, "actually, there's something that I need to tell you."

He fixes his gaze on you, a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "I know."

**

Flashback:

It was a sad, gloomy day. Even the sky looked melancholy, filling up with puffy grey clouds to shield away the sun. Not allowing the warmth of the rays to reach you or anyone else.

Many people had shown up to pay their respects and offer their condolences for your loss. Most of those people you knew, and very few in which you didn't.

The burial was especially the hardest for you. You couldn't exactly describe the feeling you experienced while watching your parent's caskets being lowered into the ground. You don't think you'll ever be able to describe it. But it was at that moment in which you knew that you would never see them again. At least, not in this life.

Your eyes were red and puffy from crying, and you didn't talk much at all. Relying mostly on head gestures. Only having enough mental energy to mutter a few words to certain people that talked to you. Aunt Rena never left your side throughout the whole event. Even Rick, Lori, and little Carl were always close by. As for Negan, he kept a bit of a distance.

There was already so many people around you, he didn't want to smother you with his presence as well. Though he did come by to offer his own condolences when he had the chance to talk to you more privately. You hugged him tight and never wanted to let him go. He kept you tight in his embrace, letting you hold on to him as long as you needed. It was up until other people came over to talk to you when he had to gently pull back.

It is a quarter to 8 pm. You've been home for a while now. Aunt Rena was exhausted from the day and had went to bed early. You had other plans.

Drained and full of grief, you grabbed a bottle of whiskey from your dad's cabinet and sat on the front porch looking through your family photo album. Since it's the middle of November it is cold. So you brought a blanket to keep warm. You sat by yourself, with shaky hands and teary eyes. Flipping through the pages and pouring glass after glass. Laughing at some of the memories through the photos then taking swigs of your drink when your laughter turns into soft sobs. You probably shouldn't be out here like this but you were. You didn't want your aunt to know, or worry. That you're slowly numbing yourself with alcohol so that you could stop feeling for a while. It seemed to do it's job. As you felt yourself gradually slipping in and out of consciousness.

Negan is pulling into his driveway when he spots you on your porch all by yourself. Immediately he notices that something's not right. You're not moving.

Getting out of his car he rushes over. Calling your name but no response. You are passed out and there's a half empty bottle of whiskey on the table next to you. At first he's very worried and assumes the worst. Though the panic fades when he hears the soft snores coming from you. He checks you over again, you're sound asleep with an open photo album tucked in your arms.

"Shit kid.."

Relief washes over him, though he's concerned with how long you might've been out here. Especially out cold the way you are. It's freezing and you only have a thin blanket wrapped around your body. Brushing some hair out of your face, he could tell you had been crying again. Your cheeks were flushed and dried streams ran down your cheeks and nose. He attempts to wake you up by shaking you gently. When that doesn't work he does it more firmly.

"Y/n.. hey, wake up."

You only mumble and tuck further into your blanket in response. Brows furrowing then letting up as soon as you get comfortable again.

The sight of you made his heart ache. He can't imagine what you're going through, though he really does feel for you. He had lost two of his good friends, but you had lost both your parents. It hurt you both, yet it wasn't a pain in which he would try to compare to yours. He only wanted you to know that you weren't alone. That he will be here for you when you need him. After all you've become his friend, too.

Negan takes the book from your freezing hands and places it on the table before ringing the doorbell. He waits there at the door for a moment until Rena answers.

"Oh Negan, hello." She is surprised to see him at this time of night. "What can I do for you?"

"Hey Rena. I uh, well I found y/n asleep out here on the porch." Stepping aside, he motions over to where you're at.

Rena gasps into her hands, rushing to your side, "I- oh dear, I didn't even know she was out here!" She strokes your hair, a frown on her face as she examines the contents on the table.

"I figured you didn't," Negan shrugs. "I know you wouldn't have left her out here like this."

"Oh no, I would never." She shakes her head. "Thank you for bringing this to my attention. I was asleep, she could have been out here all night."

"She's alright. Gotta get her inside though."

"If she really drank that much, it might be hard to get her up in this state." Your aunt worries.

It's clear to Negan that it would be a rather difficult task for your aunt to do by herself. So he offers his help. "If you want, I can carry her inside."

"Would you?"

"Sure."

Negan carefully scoops you up into his arms and takes you inside. Your aunt follows behind, with the photo album held closely to her chest.

"You can set her down on the couch, she'll be fine there for the night."

He takes you into the living room and lowers you on to the couch. You stir from the movement, slipping in and out of your deep sleep.

Your aunt decides that the cover you currently have won't suffice. "I'm going to run upstairs and grab her another blanket. Can you watch her for a minute?"

Negan nods, a quiet 'yeah' leaving his lips.

Your aunt goes to retrieve the item, leaving Negan with you. The sound of you mumbling grabs his attention.

"What.. what happened?" You ask, fighting to keep your eyes open.

"It's alright sweetheart." Negan shushes you. "You're safe. You fell asleep outside but you're inside now."

Giggling to yourself, you reply, "oh yeah.." You briefly look around, recognizing your surroundings. Last you remembered, you were outside on the porch. "How'd I get in here?"

Negan drops to his haunches directly beside you. "I carried you."

"You carried me?"

"Sure did." There's a proud grin on his face after saying that.

Taken aback, your eyes gleam up at him. "Thank you."

"It's not a problem." He brushes it off. "Just want to make sure you're okay. Your aunt's coming back with a blanket. Now close your eyes and get some sleep."

"M'kay." You shut your eyes, letting out a deep sigh. "Hm.. Negan?"

He leans in a bit closer. "Yeah?"

"I love you." It comes out just above a whisper. Though the room was so quiet that he had heard it perfectly clear as if you'd said it aloud.

He chuckles awkwardly in response because you have never said that to him before. But you are drunk and he is your friend, so he figured you were just saying sappy shit. Like the kind of things you'd tell the girl holding your hair back while you're throwing up the alcohol you've ingested in a toilet. He gives your shoulder a playful nudge, muttering back, "love ya too, kid."

With your eyes still closed, you shake your head. "No Negan, I don't mean as a friend.." Your voice is low and soft. "I love, love you. Always have." That is the last thing you say before drifting off to sleep.

Your confession comes as a total shock to him. He is left completely speechless, wondering if you'd really meant what you said. However, he doesn't want to wake you again to find out. There are so many questions going through his mind when your aunt comes back. Pulling him away from you and halting his thoughts.

"There now," Rena places a thicker covering on top of you. Negan stands there, staring at you while she tucks you in. "She should be alright down here for the night. Thank you so much for bringing her in."

Her gratitude snaps him out of his haze. "Not a problem, you're welcome."

Your words are all Negan thinks about on his walk home. You love him? Did you really mean that? It's possible that you were just spewing nonsense since you were intoxicated. But what if it was the truth and it had managed to slip out because you were drunk? He believes in that old saying, "a drunk mind speaks a sober heart." So if what you'd said is true, then how long have you had these feelings for him? Must have been a long time, you did say you always have.

Negan thinks back, to a few instances where he had caught you looking at him a little too long. The times you've blushed because of something he said. Moments where you wanted to be near him. That twinkle in your eyes every single time you looked at him. He had always thought he was crazy when even the tiniest of a suspicion that you were interested in him popped into his head. Maybe she's got a little crush. Nah, she doesn't.. She's looking at me like that again. Cut the shit, she's only being nice.. Those suspensions bugged him for a while. And each time they'd come up he would dismiss them.

The thing is, he has always been very fond of you, but he wouldn't think of you in that way. He couldn't. There was no way. You were his friend's daughter.

Knowing what he knows now, however, he doesn't think he could forget or brush that away.

**

[ideasarestuckinmyhead]

Hey! Moving out asker! Short story please!!!!

We're just a call away.

OG ask: Sugarboo moving and calling Seth and Al an emotional crying mess their first night away-

(I'm projecting 100%, won't even pretend I'm not)

I hope ur okay now!!

Boo laid in there bed, emotions of moving. Not being by their lovers started to sink in. Tears weld up in their eyes as they grabbed their phone, clicking on Alphonse's contact.After two things Alphonse finally picked up.

"Hi Boo is everyth-.....Boo, baby are you crying?" Gently asking, Boo sniffed into the phone. Nodding as if he could see, hearing shuffling on the other side.

"Are they okay?" A whisper was heard, most likely Seth. He moved in after Boo moved out, to 'keep Alphonse in check' since they were around to watch him anymore.

"Y-yeah, I miss you guys so much!" Choking out, tears fell as Sugarboo wiped at them. Trying to steady their breathing, they heard Alphonse whisper something to Seth.

"Boo Ima put you on speaker okay? Seth and me wanna help." Informing them what he's gonna do. Alphonse then clicked on speaker and both boys frowned, hearts breaking hearing Boo sniff on the other end.

"Sugar, you wanna tell us specifically why you miss us? Maybe we can make it more bearable?" Softly suggesting Seth's voice came through the phone. His southern accent making them calm down a bit, God they missed their boys voices.

"Yeah! Plus, we miss you too baby." Cooing out, Alphonse's voice added on. Making Boo smile a bit, God they hated how they had moved.

"I miss your guys voices, smell and he'll even the snores you guys made. It's so quiet here, like I'm fully alone...." Whispering wettly as more tears fell. Remembering why they missed their boys made Boo even more sad. Sniffing, Sugarboo heard the boys whisper between them before talking to them again.

"Awe Sugar, it's okay. We can stay on call with you for the night."

"Yeah Boo, you still have my jacket right? Maybe that will help with missing my smell?"

Turning to the bag Boo hadn't unpacked yet they opened it. Seeing one of Alphonses sweaters and a extra shirt Seth wore a few times. Putting them on made Sugarboo calmed down a bit and lay back in bed.

"Yeah, I put on your sweater and Seth's shirt....Wish you were here though..." Mumbling out as they placed the phone by their head. Cuddling into the pillow the boys bought them, Boo heard them cooing at them.

"I know babe. We wanna be with you too, should have snuck us in your bag to be honest."

"Like your fat ass would fit in it!"

"Your one to talk bubble butt."

Giggling at the little argument the boys started, Boo felt their eyes droop. Sleep slowly started making a claim on them, getting comfy under the blankets the boys got them. Listening to their voices made Sugarboo feel a lot better about being alone.

"You getting sleepy Sugar?" The question hung in the air as Boo hummed in reply. There was shuffling in their end as it seems they too got comfy in the huge bed they would share.

"Don't worry Boo, we'll stay on call with you the whole night okay?" Comforting words made Boo smile. What did they do to get these two boys? Wondering to themselves as they felt their eyes close.

"I love you guys." Whispering sleepily, Sugarboo slipped into unconscious. However on the other end, the two boys whispered as quietly they could. Planning to go meet up with Boo again as quickly as possible.

[anxy76]

🍷Overworked

Presented to you by anxy76

Enjoy!

𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝

It was a dull night, I just got back from Lord Diavolos Castle, I was required to help around for the upcoming party

I slowly put my bag down, feeling pretty tired from all the work I did, but there was one thing I had to check before heading back to sleep

Someone who's been working way too much, the random footsteps from afar could be heard

I slowly walk towards the familiar door, the one I enter almost each and every night thought for the past week I couldn't have made it due to Diavolos' requirements.

Slowly putting my ear next to door, trying to listen if there was any sound inside, a stern voice making me flinch

"I swear if it's you, Mammon, again, I'll hang you upside down!" Lucifer shouted in a clearly annoyed tone, and it could be very much heard through the door

I press the handle and open the door. Lucifer is already staring at it

"Sorry ,Lucifer, I just wanted to check on you. I haven't seen you in a while" keeping my voice as soft as possible, seeing that Lucifer was not in the mood for anything

He just stared at me, right into my eyes. The moonlight was going over his face, making Lucifers features more noticeable, but just when he was about to speak, the second oldest voice was heard

"OI human! Where have ya been all day?! Come 'ere! No more waisting time here. " Mammon grabbed my hand and pulled me out of Lucifers office just as if he no longer wanted to see me in there

"Mammon- wait! Hold on!" I tried stopping him, but there was no chance he'd actually listen to me. Sometimes, I wonder why Mammon isn't the avatar of envy. That would suit him more... when it comes to me.

He kept talking, but instead of listening, I was continuously looking back, hoping Lucifer would come and take me away from his brother and that I'd be in his embrace... but that did not happen because while staring back at the corridor, I could see the door slowly closing back.

As the both of us reached my room, I spoke in a silent yet tired voice.

"I should get some rest, uhm thanks for bringing me to my room...I need to wake up early to help Lord Diavolo out" I groan reminding myself that I indeed need to help out and it was already late.

Mammon looked at me dissapointed yet he did not give up and invited himself in my room starting up a conversation that took atleast three more hours but what can I say other than it was indeed fun, we laughed, giggled , played some games and even comforted eachothers.

Thought my mind was still set on Lucifer,quite worried actually he hadn't left his office since the last time I actually visited him...he'll I hope he's taking care of himself and not overworking.

I brush my thoughts aside, watching as Mammon slowly leaves my room waving goodbye. The moon shined brighter as the time went by, I had to at least get a bit of sleep, I had to help them out, or else Diavolo would be disappointed

My eyes slowly closed, bringing me to my slumber, helped by my blanket, a very comfortable and puffy one.... I didn't even realise I didn't change my clothes due to how tired I was, and we'll because I got distracted by the sin of greed, Mammon.

𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝

𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝

Time passed very fast

Diavolos party was starting to look amazing. The finishing touches, making it look absolutely stunning, I was proud of myself for being able to help with so many things my eyes flickering satisfying with all of it, as I take one more look at everything.

I was incredibly happy, but I still felt like something was missing.Someone was missing

Where was he?

I haven't seen his face for the past weeks.

Should I go look for him?

All the questions rang in my head, I needed to know how he was doing.

My mind was made up. I was gonna go search for him. As I was about to go, Lord Diavolo snapped me back to the party

"Ah... yes, the finishing touches, how could I forget I still had to help..!"softly whispering to myself, at how forgetful I get when it comes to the avatar of pride...

Kinda dissapointed at the fact that I can't go see him right now. Oh, how I wish...

The faster I finish this, the quicker I'll get to him!

Or so I thought....

𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝

For the past hours, I've been helping, it seems as Diavolos thoughts had no stop...!

I'm so tired... After all, im just a human doing all this work.

"Diavolo... we finished everything. Isn't it time to let us go back?" I asked a bit confused since we finished the actual plan a few hours ago.

"Ah yes! But there's so many ideas so much to do!" He responded with his iconic laugh."Sorry (y/n) you can go rest. I understand you don't have the energy as us the demons."

I took a deep breath in. Finally, I can go check on him.

"Thank you!" I respond eagerly, ready to leave.

I didn't usually walk alone in the devildom. It was dangerous for... a human that's what everyone told me, i was supposed to wait for one of the brothers to walk with me towards the House of Lamentation, but I was too worried about the oldest brother, so instead of waiting I was speeding towards the house.

𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝

Quickly making my way in rushing towards Lucifers office, I slowly knock on the door but only for it to get no response.

"Lucifer?" I ask softly, deciding to open the door as I pull it open

I'm peeking my head inside the room as I see him. His head was lying on the table, probably way too tired to get to his room.

I wonder how long he has been here for?

For how long has he been skipping meals?

"Lucifer.." I call out again his name as I comb my fingers through his hair

He started to stir a bit, and then he brought his head up to look at me

"(y/n)? why are you here? I must've fallen asleep. I have to get back to my work. Thank you for waking me."But my mind was made to at least get him to rest for a bit.

"You need to rest the work can wait," looking him directly in the eyes... his eyes looked so tired, so exhausted."You've been working for the past weeks for what I know. You deserve a break, so please let me help you."

He looked at me, debating if he should listen to me or not... but he knew I wouldn't stop until he rested.

"Alright then." he got up, looking just as exhausted, but instead of walking towards the door, he came to me. "But you're also resting with me, don't think I didn't know you've also been working more than you should of." his hands made their way around my waist , holding me close.

My cheeks turned into a soft red. "But unlike you, I got rest from time to time..!" complaining at his statement.

"Let's head to my room." pulling me towards him, not letting go of my hand as he took the lead into getting us towards his room.

At that time, I forgot I didn't change my clothes due to the hurry I was in. "I think I'll head to my room." I told him

"You're not spending the night with me?" his voice sounded dissapointed, he wanted me to stay , and who was I to decline?

"I'll just change my clothes and come right back, alright?" As I turned my head towards the direction of my room

"I can give you some spare clothes." he responded quickly, grabbing my hand and pulling me inside the room "I don't want you to leave."

I watched him as he got me the spare clothes he had already changed, and so was I about to do as well.

It took me a few minutes, but I finished, I went into the bed right next to Lucifer.

He put his hands around me and pulled me, holding me against his chest. His heartbeat was going fast yet soft like a nice melody.

His voice was soft as he said, "How I wished we'd do this again, I'm sorry I got so worked up with all the paperwork my dear (y/n)" as he held me as close as possible

"It's alright, I was just worried since you haven't been getting rest" I whispered out my thoughts "I want you to take more care of yourself."

"Anything for you my dear."

Those were the last words exchanged from the both of us as we fall into a deep slumber both of us happily in eachothers arms again after so long.

𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝

Thank you for reading!

[ikamigami]

So what if I told y'all that this is actually a "Moon's paranoia" arc? And what if showrunners hint that Sun will try to help or reach out to Eclipse behind Moon's back.. and they hint that with Moon's words that he trust Sun?

Cause let me tell you something. I've watched many shows and movies to know that this line reminds me of that type of foreshadowing in which one character says "we'll meet again" but they never had the chance to meet again because that other character dies. You know what I mean, right?

So with Moon saying that he trusts Sun - it's not the first time when he says that btw cause he told Earth that he trusts Sun with his life - and Moon being more and more paranoid, I have a heavy suspicion that Moon will stop trusting even Sun..

But ofc it won't be like that that Moon will abandon Sun or anything like that.. He most definitely will be mad at Sun.. but I think that this is what may lead to Moon locking Sun on the island..

Moon really acts paranoid. Some of you may not believe me but what Moon is doing is something that paranoid person would do. What I mean is that Moon devides what informations he shares with whom. No one receives full picture. Only Moon holds all the cards all the time.

Cause look at what he did. He decided to not tell any info to Solar at the moment, right? He did the same thing with not telling anything to Sun and Lunar before. But he eventually told them everything, right? Yes and this is another thing that hints to Moon being paranoid.. because he is the one who always shares things with others. It let's him feel in control of situation.

"Everything is fine as long as I keep my finger on the pulse"..

Getting back to Moon locking Sun on the island. Moon would obviously think that this would be the best for Sun. To keep Sun safe. Even from Sun himself.. or maybe especially from Sun himself.. because remember what I wrote in this post !

I think that everything is adding up nicely. Like many people were wondering about the purpose of Evil Sun's appearance in the show, thinking that maybe he's behind Eclipse's return. But it doesn't make any sense because E Sun doesn't have any agenda to meddle with our dimension. There weren't given any hints that our dimension has anything to offer to E Sun (yet, obvi lol)..

That's why I think that they made Moon go there so he could get paranoid for legit reasons and not out of the blue. Also it's important to do a good build up for rising paranoia in character for it to be more believable..

And most of the time paranoia is piling up before it'll reach a critical point when person snaps and starts doing things that endangers their and their family lives. It never starts right off the bat..

Paranoia is no joke. It messes with your mind badly.. especially if you feed your paranoid thoughts!

I'm saying that from personal experiences. I'm still struggling with paranoid thoughts. Who's read that one post of mine then knows what I'm talking about 😅

Also it might be actually just like @nightixx (hope you don't mind that I tagged you) said in one of their posts that Moon is probably realising to what lengths Sun is willing to go to protect his family. Maybe Moon actually sees that Sun can and would probably put himself in danger in order to keep his family safe. And maybe Moon actually suspect Sun to act behind his back and maybe even he may suspect that Sun may try to give Eclipse a chance just like he did with BM.

Cause Moon isn't stupid. He might not be the best with reading emotions etc but I won't doubt that he is quite observant. Like even Old Moon was noticing that something was wrong with Sun but unfortunately he didn't do much to help.

I think that New Moon is probably noticing that something is wrong with Sun as well. But unlike Old Moon he'll do something about it. He'll keep Sun safe no matter what. And why I think that Moon may be suspecting that Sun may try to give Eclipse a chance? Because I think that in Moon's eyes Sun is too nice, too naive, too stupid - he learned that in Ruin's dimension when Sun wanted to help that dimension so badly and he learned that with how Sun tried to give BM a chance.. Both of these situations were dangerous and yet Sun was willing to help and act on his kindness even if it meant endangering himself.. Moon sees that. I think that Moon realises that Sun is the biggest threat to himself...

Also I think that it's very possible that Moon may suspect that Sun will act behind his back because Sun already lied to him about that whole being a conduit for star's power thing which like Moon said was killing Sun every day..

And important thing to note is that paranoia may induce a hypervigilance in someone. Which explains why someone who is paranoid plans things in advance and with suspicion that others will break their trust.

Old Moon was paranoid af.. and we can see that New Moon starts becoming more and more paranoid as well...

But like I said it'll most definitely end up with Moon restricting Sun's freedom in order to prevent him from endangering himself. Which I'm afraid will lead to a tragedy.

[butterflyintochains]

Too Close For Comfort

When Kris Letang and Erik Karlsson met in 2011 and became official in 2012, they made each other one promise. To keep their relationship a secret, to only tell everyone once they were teammates, or when they were both comfortable with it, whichever came first. It's not been easy, but they've somehow made it work for them. At least the media don't ask them any more stupid questions than they already do get, right? Sure, they've wanted to scream it from the rooftops, but it's better this way.

But, there have been some close calls over the years.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I. The Game After The Weekend Before

Touching down in Ottawa after that three game homestay set Kris' heart racing, not yet two months have passed since that wild and wonderful weekend in Raleigh. That weekend that has turned his life upside down in all the best possible ways. He has no idea what this is that Erik awoke in him back in January, he can't put a name to it. All he knows is that it feels really good, and he never wants to stop feeling it. This will be the first game they play against each other since those three beautiful days. They get bussed to the hotel, Kris gets up to his room, and on cue his phone rings. ''Wondered when you'd call me.'' He says.

Erik laughs, he'll be in his apartment or at the gym. ''Tried to time it so you'd be alone. Excited for tonight, Kris?'' Kris smirks, joking with Erik. ''Like you'd not believe, can't wait to win tonight.''

Erik says, voice cocky but light. ''We'll see about that, I like our odds.'' Was it like this in private between Sid and Geno at the beginning? Did Flower and Max ever have this easy way with each other? Is this what that felt like for them? ''Kris? You still with me?''

Kris gives his head a shake, no time for zoning out today. ''Yeah... yeah, shit... just got zoned out for a second.'' Erik says, sounding relieved that he wasn't hung up on. ''That's fine, it's been happening to me a lot too. I'll see you tonight.''

Kris nods, running his free hand through his hair. ''See you tonight.''

That night, they get suited up apart, mere yards from each other, sitting on one hell of a story. One no one is getting quite yet, they barely even know what they are to each other. Friends doesn't quite fit, lovers is a bit much for now. They hit the ice for warmups, Erik spots Kris from across the ice, and allows himself a smile. Kris sees Erik warming up for the game, he also feels the glance from Flower. No time for that. The game is going well for the Penguins, both young defencemen seeming a bit distracted by something. But, the Penguins win 5-1. Somehow, in all the post-game chaos, Kris finds some time outside with Erik. ''We'll win the next one.'' Erik insists, brown eyes glistening. Kris just kisses him, and says. ''I like our odds, but okay.'' They kiss again, but the distant sound of Kris' name being shouted breaks them up. ''Fuck, that's Brooks. I should go.'' Erik nods, and says. ''I understand, go.'' Kris squeezes his hands, and heads for the bus. Brooks asks him. ''Where the hell have you been?''

Kris just says. ''Seeing a friend.'' The word feels weird, friends don't do what they were just doing, friends don't do what they did in Raleigh.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

II. The French Connection

Alright, this isn't so bad, is it? He learned English as a kid, as every school kid in Sweden does, he can - and will - learn French. Kris is down south, no doubt getting started on learning Swedish. The books are spread out on the table Erik is using, he's taking notes diligently, trying out phrases. French sounds so pretty when Kris speaks it. This might just be one of the most important things he ever does, and he knows Kris will be taking his own studying seriously. This is huge, and terrifying, but holy shit does it feel good. He finds one word, a simple one, five letters long: 'Amour', and something finally clicks into place. Kris called him that on the phone last night. ''Love, helvete.'' He takes his phone out, and calls Kris right away. ''Bonjour, Erik, ca va?'' Kris asks in French.

Erik clears his throat. ''Je suis bien, Kris, l'anglais sil vous plait?'' Kris laughs, and says. ''Sure, what's up?''

Erik swallows, hoping no one else is using the training rink today. ''That word you called me last night, 'amour', did you mean it?'' Kris sounds confused. ''Erik, mon amour, you know me, I never say anything unless I mean it.''

It's been just over a year since Raleigh, they became official right here last month. ''Okay... if you meant that. Then, I mean it too, hjartat mitt.''

Kris asks, after a moment of silence. ''What's that mean?'' Erik just says. ''That's for me to know, and you to figure out.'' They hang up, and Erik gets on with his studying, something beautiful in his chest. Jakob and Mika come in together for a gym session, and venture over to Erik's table, seeing the French books spread out. ''Learning French, Karl? What for?'' For someone he now knows he loves, and loves him. ''Just... felt like learning a language, Jakob.''

Mika asks. ''But, French? Wouldn't German be easier?'' It would, but Kris doesn't speak German, Erik says. ''We're in Canada, Zibby. Helps to have both.'' He prays to God that his friends believe him, those are equations he doesn't want anyone putting together yet. Sure, he spent all of that weekend with Kris, but no one can know why. ''If I didn't know any better, I'd say you like someone.'' Jakob says. Erik tries to contain the blush rising to his ears, this went past like months ago, and they both know it. ''You do, we can tell! Who is it, Erik?''

Erik just says. ''Someone who speaks French.'' That's all they're getting. Maybe he should keep this for when he's at home next time.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

III. The New Letter

God almighty, he looks gorgeous as captain, almost too gorgeous. Kris thinks to himself as the team watch some highlights from the most recent Senators game. Kris' gaze flits between Erik and the new letter on his jersey, the red still looks weird to him, but that's a dream that seems far off now. Teams don't trade captains willingly. He is so lucky, he truly is, and he'll never forget it. The feed pans to the team bench for a bit, and Stone must be either very brave, very stupid, or both. Kris doesn't need to be a genius to see that Stone is flirting with Erik for all to see, who wouldn't? Is the first thought in his head, then is replaced by: that's my job, fuck off. Stone is lucky Kris is a Penguin, and Kris is lucky Sid can't read his mind. ''God, Stone is brave, rumour has it Karlsson is spoken for.'' Kuny says.

Horny seems surprised, Team Sweden never keep secrets from each other. ''Is he? Who's the lucky one?'' Kris can feel his heart pounding, ever aware of the defect, he takes a deep breath. ''Oh, they've gotta be hot, Karlsson wouldn't settle for someone with no teeth and a fucked up nose.'' Dumo posits.

Sid laughs, petting Sam's ears. ''I dunno, he might, we don't know what he's into.'' Me, Kris thinks, he's into me. That petty part of him from two seasons ago threatens to come back out. But, he has Olli to set an example for now. ''Nah, Cap, Dumo's right, Karlsson could only date someone who matches his energy.'' Brandon says.

Geno just has to ask for a timeline. ''How long has Karlsson been taken for, then?''

Duper says. ''Almost four years. That's what some friends up north said anyway.'' Kris risks sharing a glance with Flower, one of just six who know about them. Flower casually sips his coffee, and turns back to his book. ''Kris, you've been quiet this evening.'' Flower says, the asshole.

Ever ready to cover their tracks, used to it by now, Kris adjusts his blanket around himself, and says. ''My doctors said I'm not to get agitated, might fuck up my recovery.'' Which is partially true, and mollifies the peanut gallery enough. Still, the gossip goes on. ''Four years, Duper? He won't say anything after four years?'' Rusty says. Duper shakes his head, and says. ''Nope, says he met someone at a league thing, and that's it.''

Dumo is awestruck. ''He must love that person a lot to keep it a secret for so long.'' He does, Kris knows Erik loves him, he feels it every day, it was once a rush to the head, now it's just a comforting presence. ''Yeah, he looked so disgusted at Stone just then.'' Rusty agrees. Kris looks at the TV again, and thanks God for the wonderful man who is now the Senators captain. He hopes no one else notices the smile on his face, because it's the one reserved for Erik. ''Anyway, Ottawa chose the right guy at least.'' Sid says, stepping back into captain-mode.

Kris says, hoping they don't hear the wistful air in his voice. ''Yeah, they did.'' He knew about this well before anyone else did, that was one hell of a night trying to calm Erik down, but Kris has never been prouder of his partner.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

IV. Cup Winning Goal

Logically Erik knows he should be supporting the western team in this final, playing against Penguins with a point to prove usually ends in disaster for his Senators. San Jose are a great team, they even won the President's Trophy. But, as ever, there's the small matter of a certain someone on the Penguins. The love of Erik's life, his partner of five and a half years. He so longs to be on that ice with Kris right now, this has been a dream of theirs for years now, winning that cup together somehow. But, he's at home with the team, watching game six over lunch, wearing one of Kris' Val D'Or hoodies, a safer alternative to his jersey. At least the colours are similar, if you look past the green. ''Allez, allez.'' He mutters to himself, tracking Kris' every movement with his eyes.

Mike Hoffman says. ''I take it you're gunning for the Pens, yeah?'' Erik nods, and says. ''Yeah, they've done so well this playoffs, they deserve it.'' Kris deserves it, after being cheated out of a Masterton and half a season with that stroke. Kris deserves this cup. And, he'll hear no one say he doesn't. ''I agree.'' Alex Chiasson says, joining them from the kitchen. ''Like, the Sharks are whatever, but the Penguins have had to fight for this.''

Erik heard from Kris last night about some plot he and Sid cooked up for this game, apparently they've planned to score the winning goal together. How that works Erik has no idea, you can't just plan a goal, right? Well, all he can do is sit back and watch. Sid and Kris take to the ice together, Mika says. ''Oh, here it comes, the most annoying duo in the east.''

There's a battle in the corner, Sid stealing the puck, and breaking the Sharks' ankles. He passes to Kris, who takes the shot, and the Stanley Cup. The team mob him in celebration, even if the job isn't quite done yet. The gathered Senators are too busy gushing over the goal to notice Erik crying, two years ago, Kris had a stroke, now he's scored a cup winning goal. ''You good, Karl?'' Stone asks.

Erik regains composure, a herculean effort right now. ''Yeah, that was just... so fucking good.'' He'd give anything to have been on ice with Kris today. But, they'll be together again soon enough, in Montreal then in Sweden. Craig asks his captain. ''What's got you all emotional on us, Erik?''

Drying his eyes on the white hoodie, Erik says. ''You'd never believe me if I told you, Craig.'' He'd not know where to begin right now anyway, he'd probably need to take a nap first. But, they promised to do that together, so he'll honour that promise.

That night, he leaves Kris a voicemail. ''Hej, hjartat, I'm so proud of you, and so proud to be yours. Sleep off the hangover before you call me back. I saw the goal, you are the best. I love you, and hope you always know that.'' The team no doubt sense something is up by now, he loves Kris, and if he's to be punished for that, it'll be years too late.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

V. A Dream Turned Nightmare

The Penguins are en route to California right now, it's late January, and will be warmer out west. One good thing about the depression Kris has had lately is that it's never difficult to get to sleep anymore. He's out like a light as soon as they're in the air, too heartsick to be awake for this flight. It's been a shit week, it also would've been his and Erik's seventh anniversary in a few days. Seven years, not quite as impressive as Sid and Geno's decade together come May, but it would've been nice to get there. For some reason, his mind takes him to Cranberry.

The first thing he feels as he heads inside is warmth, that same warmth he gets with Erik. He goes to the dressing room, seeing a stall with the number 65 on it. He'd know if that happened, right? They'd have spoken first, right? He heads out onto the ice, hearing that familiar laugh, the one he'd do anything to win back. He sees the name, and the number, in gold and white. 65, Karlsson. Erik turns to face him, that same furious look on his face from that terrible night. And, Kris bursts into tears.

He vaguely registers Geno waking him up, somewhere far away. ''Kris, wake up for us, Legend.'' Kris wakes up like he's drowning, forcing air into his lungs. ''You were crying in your sleep.'' Sid informs him. Kris says, panting like he's skated a whole game twice. ''Sorry, bad dream.''

Geno asks, gently so as not to wake the rest. ''Do you wanna talk about it?''

How does he begin to talk about it? He's been having that dream since 2013, and it's never made him cry like this. ''No, not yet, it never goes like that normally.''

Sid asks, curious, but not prying. ''You've had it before?'' Kris nods, and dries his eyes again. ''For four years, yeah. It's usually happy, but now it's not.'' All that came down around his ears that night last May. Someday, he hopes, this will stop hurting, he can win Erik back somehow. He has no idea how he's going to do that, he can't just hand back the ring and ask for his name to be removed from the cup. He'll figure it out, though, he has to. ''Can I ask you two something?'' Kris says.

Geno nods, and affirms. ''Always, Legend.''

Kris asks them both. ''Do you believe in destiny?'' Sid and Geno share that look, the look that makes him want to jump out of the plane window. ''Yeah, I do at least.'' Sid says. Geno nods, clearly on the same frequency. ''So do I. Do you?'' Kris sniffles, and admits to the two most important people in his life. ''I don't know anymore. I wish I did.''

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VI. Point Of No Return

PPG Paints Arena feels less hostile now, it's been about a month since the sun started shining again, and Pittsburgh is as beautiful as ever at this time of year. Erik has his Kris back, forever now, who knew all it'd take was another All Star Game? They got back together right on their eighth anniversary. This game is their first as a reunited couple. Erik knows he shouldn't blow this for them, things are still so fragile, they are still so fragile, but he really wants to see Kris right now. They take to the ice for warmups, Erik finding those gorgeous dark eyes in the chaos of black jerseys. Kris beams at him, eyes watery. God, this feels good. ''You good, Karl?'' Joe asks him. For the first time in forever, Erik says. ''On top of the world, Jumbo.'' Nothing is going to piss him off tonight, judging by Kris' face, his beloved feels much the same way.

They get going for faceoff, the captain centers taking this very seriously as always, not knowing quite how much this game means. Erik winks across the blueline at Kris, who winks back. They risk some flirting during a play. ''Dejtar du någon just nu?'' Erik asks in Swedish.

Kris responds. ''Ja, ses ikväll?'' They're back, and it feels so much better already, Erik says. ''Ja, alltid for dig.'' They split off to their benches, Erik's head spinning in all the best ways again. As the game goes on, he loses track of the score, but they do end up winning 4-0. Erik risks skating up to Kris, and utters something into his ear, Kris puts a hand on his shoulder, and nods. Erik soaks in the looks from his team as they get ready to leave. ''So, we gonna talk about that thing earlier?'' Timo asks.

Erik puts his watch on, and asks. ''What thing earlier, Timo?'' Timo blinks a few times. ''Uhh, you and Letang?''

Erik smirks, and heads for the doors to grab his stuff from the bus, a celebration is in order for tonight. ''What about me and Letang?'' He asks, Kris' last name feeling weird in his mouth, it's been eight years since they were on last name basis. They aren't Letang and Karlsson to each other, they're Kris and Erik. He grabs his bag, and meets Kris at his car, they finally kiss after hours of waiting. ''I've missed you, hjartat mitt.''

Kris runs his fingers through Erik's hair, sending chills up his spine. ''I've missed you too, mon amour.'' They jump in the car, and get going to Kris' house. ''I think my guys noticed our little chat at the end of the game.'' Erik says.

Kris laughs, rapping his fingers on the steering wheel. ''That wouldn't surprise me, I'm sure mine have found me insufferable today.'' Erik can bet, when they're in the same city, it's like a fire is lit, one only they can control. ''Do they ever ask you why you like playing us? Or why you got so excited for your games against the Senators?'' Erik asks.

Turning down the road, Kris says. ''Sometimes, yeah. How about you? Have your teams ever wondered why you love playing the Penguins so much?''

Erik puts his hand on Kris' thigh. ''I'm sure they have, but that's for us to know, and them to find out.'' The fact that they'll likely not meet again on ice until a possible cup final hangs in the air, but at least they've got summer back.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

VII. Stuck In The Bubble

This is bullshit, this is bullshit, and he fucking hates it. Kris has barely been in Hotel X for two days before he gets bored senseless. He's rooming with Dumo at least, the best defence partner he's ever had, but that doesn't make this any less bullshit. He's never been a jealous person, everyone's lives are different. But, this is bullshit. And, yeah, he helped put this thing together, fine, whatever. But, Erik is at home in Montreal, and he's so achingly close in Toronto. And, for some stupid reason, Sid and Geno have chosen now to flaunt their marriage in front of the Metro division. Some contest with Ovechkin and Backstrom probably. He'd normally encourage their nonsense, but it's hard when his future husband is somewhere fucking else, probably walking Buddha and Freya now he thinks about it. ''Mon dieu, mon amour, this fucking sucks.''

Erik laughs down the line at him, because of course he does. ''What's happened now, sweetheart?''

Kris leans against the balcony wall. ''Well, Sid and Geno are in some weird contest with Ovechkin and Backstrom for best married couple in Hotel X. Meanwhile I'm handling PA stuff with Turbo to keep this from collapsing around us.'' Erik listens intently, as always, they can always vent to each other. ''You are doing an amazing job with the bubble, sweetheart. As for Sid and Geno... helvete.''

Kris leans over to close the balcony door. ''It'd not be so insufferable if I hadn't spent this spring being domestic with you, but you'd think we'd become the Pittsburgh Peacocks.'' Erik laughs again, what he wouldn't give to see his smile right now. ''Is it that bad?'' Kris sighs, pinching his nose. ''Yes, darling, it is.''

Erik muses, voice cocky for some reason. ''Could be worse, I suppose.''

Kris knits his brows together. ''How could it be worse?'' Erik chuckles, and says. ''Come on, hjartat, if I was a Penguin it'd be a three way contest, and we both know it. I think we'd win too.'' Kris smirks to himself, when Erik is right, God is he ever right. ''Yeah, amour, we would.''

The next day, Kris is in the hotel restaurant on his laptop, looking over some stuff from Edmonton, texting back and forth with the reps from the Western teams. Bo Horvat is reporting boredom from his Canucks, but so is everyone else. Seems like the Knights set up a movie night in their hotel theater, probably Flower's idea. Ovechkin walks in to grab something to eat. ''You good, Letang?'' He asks. Kris nods, checking some regional Covid statistics. ''Yeah, just PA stuff. Not much else to do today. How's your little contest with my brothers going?''

Ovechkin laughs. ''It keeps us entertained, why don't you and Dumo join in?'' Kris almost spits his tea out, he's been linked to Flower more times than he cares to count, but Dumo? ''Dumo and I aren't a thing, Ovi. My partner doesn't even play for us, his team didn't even make it to the bubble.''

Ovechkin looks intrigued, this whole conversation is the weirdest thing he's experienced this year. ''Yeah? He at home in Montreal, then?''

Kris nods, and says. ''Yeah, and between us - as two people who love annoying my brothers - if he was a Penguin, Sid and Geno would freak out.''

Ovechkin laughs, he doesn't ask further, but he does ask Kris. ''Any pointers?''

Kris just says. ''If you know any Swedish, whip it out with Nicky. It's what I'd do, y'know, if I was in your position. Tell Nicky to try some Russian while you're at it.'' As though he was a bad game strategy, Ovechkin immediately reads him. ''Speaking from experience?'' Kris nods, and says. ''Perhaps.'' This can't possibly come back to bite him, right?

Well, turns out it can. During training, Sid corners Kris, and asks him. ''Why did you tell Ovi to speak Swedish with Backstrom? You know I don't speak Russian, right?'' Ah, so it did work, then. Good to see he can still have fun while pissed off at being parted from Erik. ''Well, as a Swedish speaker myself, I just thought it'd be a nice gesture.'' Kris says, trying to contain his energy.

Geno says. ''You won't even tell us why you speak Swedish, though.'' If he did, they'd faint, that's why. ''Yeah, what's with that?'' Kris skates off to talk to Johnny. ''Take a lucky guess.''

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

VIII. The Wedding Ring

The gold band on Erik's finger only took days to get used to, a symbol of his eternal bond with the only man he's ever loved. He's married now, and he never knew he was capable of being this happy. However, this is going to be a bitch to explain away, a golden ring on his left hand. He'd not give this or his husband up for anything, though. He is lucky their first game as a married couple is after New Year, maybe the rush of their wedding will have worn off by then? Probably not, but that's fine. He gets in for training, and heads into the locker room to get changed. Feeling eyes on him right away. ''Holy shit.'' Logan says.

Jonah remarks, laughing. ''Looks like someone had an interesting summer.''

Middleton says. ''Our boy is off the market!'' Little does he know, Erik's been off the market for the best part of eleven years. Kris had him at 'hello', and it's been full steam ahead ever since. Not that it's any of their business yet. ''Oh, who is it, Karl? Come on!'' Nick Bonino says, as if he didn't win two cups with Erik's husband in 2016 and 2017.

Burns joins in on the fun, asking Erik. ''Yeah, who's the lucky guy, Karl?'' Erik says nothing, sliding his jersey on, and placing his wedding ring on a chain. ''Tell us, Karl.'' Timo says.

And, because he's still swept up in his own happiness, Erik says. ''You really wanna know who my husband is, don't you?'' Logan, dropping the captain mask for a bit, says. ''Uh, no shit, Karl! Not everyday one of my alts comes back from summer with a wedding ring on, is it?'' Erik playfully says, holding up three fingers. ''Okay, you get three hints, you put them together, cool?''

Matt Nieto says, buzzing with excitement. ''Go on, give them to us!'' Erik says, sitting down at his stall again. ''Okay, one: He's a cup winner. Two: He's also a defenceman. And, three: He plays out east.'' Picking his sticks up, he says. ''Good luck, boys.'' And swans out onto the ice. That doesn't narrow it down too much... hopefully. He could go on for hours about Kris, and probably has to Danny numerous times. Just as Flower says Kris used to ramble for ages about Erik. But, it does hit him as he practices shots... he also described his best friend, Victor is going to hate him. So is Steven now he thinks of it.

The days crawl along, and so do the games. The team mostly leave Erik alone about his wedding and mystery husband, he gave them their hints, and they're doing their best to put them together. He does hear from Kris one night that things are going the exact same way on his end. At least they're facing this now, and not earlier, they've come so far even since 2019. Long dead are the young and dumb versions of them from back in the day. Hallelujah. The team have a very long shortlist put together by about December. ''Alright, Karl, here's the list.'' Logan says, handing it over.

Erik reads the mixture of handwriting, his thumb does briefly linger on Kris' name, so do his eyes. He prays they don't notice. ''This is quite extensive, boys, I'm impressed.'' He says, ready to keep the game up. ''Want two more hints?''

Jonah exclaims. ''Yes! Oh, my God, go on!''

Erik hands the list back, and says. ''Okay, one: he plays in New England. And, two: We're different nationalities.'' Instantly, the list is getting updated, Erik sits back with his book, and grins to himself. Wouldn't be them without some chaos, long may that continue.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

IX. First Training Camp

This is actually happening, after twelve years of waiting for this, it's actually happening. Here they are, arriving for training, together at long last. No one seems to question why they walk into Cranberry together. Or why they look so blissfully happy to do so. No one knows why they're talking in hushed French to each other. That's fine, they will know why eventually. Once things are more settled. Once they're used to being teammates themselves. They suit up for practice together, Kris is in awe of the golden 65 on Erik's back. ''Well, how do I look?'' Erik asks, a cheeky glint in his dark eyes.

Kris bites his lip, not caring one single iota that Sid and Geno are across the room from them. ''Like a Penguin. Like how you should've always looked. Ready, mon amour?''

Erik nods, also not caring that they're not at home, life's too short, they know that better than most. ''Always, hjartat mitt.'' With that, they leave for the rink. Leaving a very confused team behind them. Do friends call each other that? What the hell have they all missed? Jake says, after a few moments to think it over. ''They're definitely a thing, right?''

Rusty says to his brother. ''Oh, them? Oh, totally. No idea what they called each other, but the looks are enough.''

PO looks like something has clicked in his head, he recently moved in with Drew from Kris' place. ''Oh... oh, my God! Kris?'' He bolts out of the room. ''What? What's going on?'' Lars asks, looking lost.

Tristan says, picking at his nails. ''Well... looks like someone has kept a big secret from us for a while.''

Sully calls the rest onto the ice, no time for gossiping, there's work to do. Joining the two best defencemen of the generation on the ice doesn't help matters any. Anyone with eyes can see that they were born to play together, just as Sid and Geno were. The way they speak without words, but always find each other. The way they know how each other skates down to the last motion. Two halves of a whole. ''I'm impressed with you two, only a day as teammates, and you're already so good together.'' Sully tells them after training.

Erik chuckles, sliding his ring back on. ''Thank you, coach. There's kind of a reason for that, actually.''

Sully looks intrigued by that, he's known Kris was spoken for for a while, and that wedding ring threw even him off in 2021. ''Oh? Go on.'' Kris gives his coach a sheepish smile. ''So, Sully, remember that season I came home married?''

Sully nods, and says. ''Yeah, of course I do, I also remember the chaos it caused in here.'' Kris and Erik share a look, one which clearly holds something that predates his job here. ''Oh... oh, really? Wow.'' Erik says, smiling. ''Surprise?''

Kris adds. ''We're kinda letting the boys put it together on their own.'' Sully grins, already picturing Sid and Geno's faces when the ball drops for them. ''Good luck with that.'' He says.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

X. A Record Breaking Night

That was generational, first game back from Christmas, and Kris goes and gets six points in one game. Sometimes, these achievements feel unreal, like someone else should've earned them, but this is something special. Erik is in awe of the man he's married to, that stack of pucks will look very nice in the house once they're back home. Sully gets done with his speeches to the team, and Kris sits back with the pucks in his hands. Not really saying anything, just soaking in the thing he's just achieved. Normally it's his brothers doing this kind of stuff, but this is his. ''Kris, sweetheart, you okay?'' Erik asks. The hum in the room going silent really quickly. Kris nods, and takes Erik's hand. ''Yeah, darling, just... letting this all sink in.''

It's now that the stares register, surely everyone knew by now, right? They look up at their teammates, all slack jawed at the pet names. Sid and Geno look ecstatic for them, Jeff Carter asks. ''Well, how long has this been going on?''

Erik says. ''Thirteen years in three weeks' time. Why?'' Jake says to the team's oldest player. ''Carts, you're a bit late to the party here. Rusty, Drew, Jars, Ned, PO, and I had them figured out during preseason.''

Kris asks his family. ''Were we that obvious?''

Sid nods, standing up from his stall. ''Yeah, kinda. Worst kept secret since me and Geno, actually.''

Geno remarks, a wry smile on his face. ''Best kept secret in the league, though.'' One of the weirdest stories too, no doubt. 2011 feels so recent and so long ago all at once. They've had so many close calls with this secret, and they're glad they made it here without the media getting their noses in. But, the time for secrecy is clearly over. ''So... the wedding rings, then?'' Marcus asks them.

Kris says, quoting a part of their vows. ''We are one when together, we are one when parted.''

Erik adds. ''We hold in our hands the making of this union.'' With that, they go for showers, and get back into their suits for the bus. Certain that they'll need to regale the team with this story on the plane ride home, at least they can do that together now. It's a damn lot better than the alternative, they know that for sure.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Been working on this for a couple of days now, and I'm finally over this month long cold I had (hopefully), on a course of vitamins to build my system up. This started as close calls with people almost finding out about Kris and Erik's relationship, but morphed into them dropping hints to people. But, that's fine. I'd imagine after they got back together, they were more just focused on being happy together than keeping up the secret. As I said, they were just waiting until they were teammates before telling everyone outright.

Very happy to have this finished at last! I think it could've been longer, but I'm satisfied, so that's all I care about.

Enjoy!