#i’ve been in my head too much today so here’s a mini essay of how pissed i am | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

fabdante · 4 years ago

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Ok, last one. The Kat and Artemisia post. Incase you missed them, this is part of a trio of posts on Baroque art and the DmC reboot trio and a separate post on the DmC reboot and the Baroque as an art movement.

The other posts if you want to check them out: Dante and Caravaggio, Vergil and Benini, DmC and the Baroque

Today for the final installment in this little mini series, we’ll be discussing the artist who won the Baroque, Artemisia Gentileschi, and her painting Judith Slaying Holofernes, featured below.

Analysis of this painting, why it’s such a bop, Kat, and the devil may cry reboot below the cut!

Content Warning: discussion of abuse as it relates to Kat.

I guess we start with the beginning and the beginning is who Judith is.

Judith is a biblical character. Upon impending invasion, she is unsatisfied with the response of her people and decides to infiltrate the enemy camp with her maid, intent to stop the enemy army. After gaining the trust of the people there, she eventually seduces general Holofernes and is invited to his tent. Then she beheads him with what I am left to assume is his sword. I suppose given the painting that part’s a little spoiled.

A lot of paintings focus on the beheading or Judith posing with the decapitated head in victory. But a lot of them don’t have the impact of Artemisias, as seen above.

Judith, as painted by Artemisia, is full of rage. She is not serene or delicate. She is not posing or unsure. She is angry, certain, and out for blood. Everything in her expression and her movements is full of force and intent. It’s the little details like his hair between her knuckles from where she’s gripping it and the forceful twist of her wrist on his sword that she’s taken. To her rolled sleeves in her incredibly fancy dress. And it’s not afraid to be gory to. Perhaps this is tame by modern standards of blood and gore but for the time it’s very bloody and violent. Supposedly the violence was too much for the first owner who kept it hidden for some time (allegedly). I think it’s important that while the focus is Judith doing the act, her maid is not passive in the violence. She’s holding him down with just as much force as Judith. And unwavering to, despite how we can see how Holofernes was trying to throw her off before he died, his hands still limply in the air. The maids full of as much determination as Judith is. Judith’s dressed up for this to, in a fine gown with her hair done up. This is likely part of the ruse Judith set up before she got Holofernes alone, but I like the detail none the less. That she’s dressed up for this murder.

The key to why this painting fits Kat so much to me is how it is not only full of anger and femininity and violence but how in Artemisias hands, the image feels like a bloody catharsis. There’s something personal in Judith's glare, in her rage. Something kind of interesting to in how she’s forced Holofernes to look away from her, like he hasn’t earned the right to see her victory even if by this point he is surely dead (I mean, the sword is nearly through his neck). Or like she doesn’t want to look at him at all, like he’s not worth looking at.

Likewise, for Kat, hunting demons is personal. The Order is personal. Why she’s here doing this is personal.

It’s personal because Kat killed her abusive foster father. I don’t think how impressive this is truly gets conveyed. It’s almost a throw away statement. It’s just that one line, ‘I killed the bastard’, and that’s that. Like it was easy or something. In the reboot universe, though, she’s not even in the same dimension as her foster father. We don’t get a lot of information about how much a demons human form impacts their demon form. We are told Mundus is fused to his human form, but we’re also told this is because he’s been in it so long and also there’s the matter of his relationship to the hell gate. We’re not even told how long he’s been in this form. Has it been years, decades, centuries? How long is so long that it led to this fusion? So, I don’t think we can base the average demon to this. As far as we know in canon, it’s Kat against a being in another dimension. A dimension she cannot engage with physically and to which he can escape to at any time.

And yet she kills him anyway.

She is the only human we know of in canon who’s done this, to. To be fair, she is the only human mentioned at all in the reboot canon but by how Dante positions himself as human savior and by how certain Vergil seems to be that humans cannot take care of themselves, this must be rare.

I cannot express enough how important it is that Kat is the one who kills him to. It’s not Vergil. She doesn’t say it was Vergil. It’s also not her and Vergil, she doesn’t say that either, she doesn’t say ‘we killed the bastard’. Kat says explicitly that she killed him, ‘I killed the bastard’. It’s Kats kill. No matter how much Vergil helped her, she did it. She killed her abuser despite the odds against her.

I can’t imagine the sort of catharsis Kat must have felt in that moment. We don’t know how she killed him, she never says. The greatest crime of the comics, in my opinion, are how they take this kill away from Kat and give it to Vergil instead. Which means no further elaboration there on what went down. But I can imagine her in that moment after, unsure how to feel with the rush of adrenaline and power and newfound safety. She’s done it. She’s done something she must have thought was impossible. And she tells us in game how this made her feel emboldened to handle the rest of demon kind. She doesn’t tell us in that many words, I suppose, but she says that she wants to deal with them all because she killed her foster father.

To Kat, this is personal. To Kat, mankind is something worth saving that she is willing to do everything to save. We don’t see her violence in game, but we know she’s willing to kill for this freedom. We know she’s willing to die for it to, given the aftermath of the Orders fall. It’s personal. And Kat sees it as something far bigger then her.

Often Kat I think is written off as someone who is naïve and weak and in need of saving. I’ve complained at length how I feel about her being called naïve. In game we see a very interesting, complex person in Kat I think. I’ve said before that it’s kind of fun to just watch her in scenes. Like really watch her. She has very deliberate body language that often betrays this calm she’s fighting to display, particularly around Dante for the first half of the game or so. It’s little things like how she physically contains herself after the ‘I like it rough’ comment, shutting her eyes and taking in a deep breath, but things that are there. She’s someone who, despite everything, is fighting to be a softer, kinder person even if she’s still got a lot of anger (Vergil does compare her and Dante, after all).

And being soft and kind does not make someone weak. Existing in a world where you are at a disadvantage to the things that aim to hurt you is not weak. Entering into your enemies tent armed with nothing but an elaborate gown and your anger, waiting until you spot a sword and an opportunity is not weak either.

I think something about Kat that is so often forgotten in the drama of the twins and everything else (because lets face it, no matter the media, female characters tend to get side lined for...everything else really), is without her the twins would have failed. It’s Kat who gets Dante and safely brings him to the Order. It’s Kat’s spells that bridge the human world to Limbo. It’s Kat who saves Vergil in the server room by way of bringing Dante to him. It’s Kat who ultimately gives the twins the final plan to get to Mundus. It was her. Dante says so at the end, to. The game recognizes that without Kat, the boys have nothing. And it's still Kat at the end who saves Vergil, and saves Dante from the guilt of killing him.

With Kat taking so much into her own hands despite her disadvantage, despite just being human, despite her softness, despite this rage boiling under her skin (or perhaps because of it), she is so much of why the world is free from demons.

I mean Artemisia herself got that treatment, largely left out of artistic canon until very recently despite her success during her time. I also debated for a very, very long time across the many, many iteration of this essay on how much I talk about Artemisia’s personal life. I suppose if you made it this far you’ve seen that I’ve chosen not to, despite how it could be relevant to this discussion. But I think her work stands on it’s own without me having to justify the anger Artemisia may have personally felt and conveyed here without bringing up her personal life in depth. Though, if you want to know, I assure you that pretty much any information you look up on Artemisia will go into detail on her personal traumas and how that might impact her work. And it could definitely be relevant angle in discussing Kat and Artemisia, I just felt it overall did not add to this essay.

I often wonder, if she was in a different game or a different medium or a different story, if Kat might get more love. So often she’s called weak for the crime of not having a big weapon and a trail of dead demons behind her. So often she’s reduced to a love interest or a damsel despite how she is really the thing that saved the day, despite the fact her relationship with both twins is much more then ‘potential love interest’. And how many times have you guys seen a post on your dash about wishing a character picked to enact revenge on an abuser? How they fought to be soft despite their trauma and pain? But I suppose, as is often the case with women in any story, she might have gotten this treatment anyway.

So, here’s to Kat. The brain cell, the Nephilim baby sitter, the girl who wanted to throw Vergil off a cliff, the hero Limbo city got who will never get enough credit, and forever the girl who deserved more.

Those of us who love you will love you enough for the whole fandom, it’s alright.

#dmc devil may cry #dmc reboot #devil may cry reboot #dmc kat #devil may cry kat #kat devil may cry #kat dmc #dmc: devil may cry #devil may cry reboot kat #tw decapitation #fab talks meta

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ilikemesometaetaes · 4 years ago

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Don’t Hold Your Breath ~ jjk

Prologue

•••> Author: @ilikemesometaetaes

•••> Summary: As the CEO of an international government security company, you have the world at your fingertips. Living life lavishly and extravagantly has become the norm. Behind closed doors, however, you host a past that renders you lonely and, quite frankly, miserable. It’s only a matter of time before your past comes back to bite you right in the ass.

•••> Pairing(s): Jungkook/Reader

•••> Inspo: This fic is inspired by the song “SAVAGE ANTHEM” by PARTYNEXTDOOR. Thank you to @btssmutgalore for everything you’ve done to help me! You’re amazing!

•••> Word Count: 2.3k

•••> Rating: 18+ • Please do not read if you are below the age of 18. I do not condone minors reading my work. Of course, I cannot stop you.

•••> Warnings: a boatload of angst, heartbreak, cursing, pining, kissing, depression. Warnings are written specifically to chapter. Refer to the DHYB Main Page for the full rundown.

Note: I don’t have a beta reader so please forgive any mistakes I may have missed. Also, if you are confused by the italics, refer to the DHYB Main Page for info on that.

Taglist: @apurpledheart

If you’d like to be added to the taglist, add a comment to this chapter or the DHYB Main Page!

NAVIGATION: | > Chapter One (M) –> Mini-Masterlist -> Series Masterlist

~#~

NOW.

The bed was cold around you.

You felt yourself breathe. You felt your heart beating in your chest. You felt the evidence of physical life within your body.

But you couldn’t help the withdrawn and frigid feeling of death laced into your mind.

You felt alone. You felt longing. You felt numb yet riddled with too many emotions to comprehend all at once.

Overwhelmed with confusion, you went to the moment that brought you calm. It brought you peace and happiness despite the things lost.

The beautiful dream-like vision of butterflies and a certain meadow filled your memory as you laid in the darkness. Sighing with content, you let yourself remember.

“Fuck Jimin and his girlfriend. We can have all the fun on our own.” He sneered in his Satoori accent. After years of knowing you, Jungkook slipped from his proper accent whenever the two of you were alone. All you could do was chuckle at his harsh words.

The blanket laid out before you was a pristine sky blue. Jungkook had gathered small stones to hold it down at the corners.

“What have you been up to today?” You asked with a hint of breathlessness due to the trek the two of you had made to get to the peak of the large hill. Turning your head to look at him while you spoke, you noticed that his head was craned upwards, gaze locked on the sky.

In response to your query, he collapsed back onto the blanket, allowing his white t-shirt to slightly ride up, revealing a small sliver of the skin on his stomach in the process. The white reflected the sun in your eyes almost painfully, but not enough to take away from the angel-like glow that it gave him.

“Nothing much. Played video games for an hour or so. Cooked and made breakfast.” He angled his head slightly to look at you. "Finished up my essay for my philosophy class. You?”

“Oh, just the usual. Didn’t finish my calc assignment by noon so I’m only going to get partial credit for that.”

Your reply reminded you of how different the two of you were when it came to school. His alone time spent in his dorms went one of two ways; he either played video games with Taehyung or studied- there was no other. His scoff broke you out of your brief thoughts.

“You know, you’re going to end up falling behind this semester, and then we won’t have the same class for our last semester as college students.” His pout that accompanied his statement had your eyes flicking to his bottom lip which shined with a slight sheen of saliva, accentuating the plumpness of it.

It was no secret that you found Jungkook attractive. Hell, even Yoongi found him attractive and Yoongi was quite impassive. Even now, with his eyes squinting under the light of the sun, his hair messy, and a thin layer of sweat covering his skin, you found him absolutely breathtaking.

You remembered how the two of you met.

Shared classes brought you closer together. Ever since you had first met him during your sophomore year when you became part of a foreign exchange program in South Korea, the two of you clicked. Realizing that he spoke English- rough English- had you giddy and eager to teach him to perfect his language skills in return for helping you with your Korean. Needless to say, you learned Korean a bit quicker than he learned English seeing as one of your majors was dedicated to the language learning.

After you decided to stay in Korea and finish the requirements for one of your degrees at your other university online, the two of you grew close in the process of mutual education. When you decided to stay was when you actually got to know him.

He was pursuing a degree in music, specializing in vocal performance, while you were working towards a double major in political science and language studies with a minor in business. Although you were packed full of classes, your work ethic was definitely capable of improvement despite having helped you survive to senior year.

“I know, Kook, but I honestly don’t know why math is required for my major anyway. I just want to be done with it.” You grumbled and adjusted your clothes before laying beside him.

He sighed wistfully, signifying his state of relaxation and calm, which you found yourself fighting a smile for. Of all of the time you had been around Jungkook, he was always emotionally charged or stressed. There was never a time you knew him to be absolutely at peace or silent in the way he acted. To hear him decompress was still a relatively new concept to you and had you giddy to relax with him in hopes that he would open up to you.

A few moments of silence rested between you both, effectively ending the previous conversation.

“Do you think about him anymore?” He voiced, distracting you from eyeing a cloud as it covered the sun. The break from sunlight was welcome on your straining brows.

It took you a moment to respond, caught off guard by the loaded question. He knew of your situation because you were open with him. But why did he care? “Sometimes. I know that he wasn’t good for me. I know that I gave him too much slack and that’s why he lied to me.” You sighed.

“Yeah,” He chuckled dryly. “That dude was an asshole.”

“I still don’t get it. I told him that everything he did was okay. I told him all he had to be was honest and that I wouldn’t be mad at him.” The frustration of your breakup with your ex-boyfriend was nowhere close to being gone. Eleven months of lies and deceit despite the good memories was difficult to remove from your conscience.

He had used drugs, something you weren’t a fan of. Despite this, on top of the fact that it was illegal, you knew that it helped his depression and you loved him throughout his questionable choices on how to treat himself. All you had asked for was his honesty; all you wanted was for him to tell you when he used.

Jungkook sat up to look at you. He frowned and then reached towards you to brush away some of the hair that fell over your forehead.

“I get that he did you wrong. Believe me. I get it. But the fact that you still think about it is irritating. It’s been a year, right?” His scowl made him look adorable.

“Something like that.” You sighed.

“And you haven’t moved on?” He asked, concerned. You were about to reply in defense before he cut in again. “I mean, don’t get me wrong. I know you don’t have those types of feelings for him anymore, but you haven’t moved on from the situation?”

Your reply was curt. “I’ve moved on. I’m just annoyed.”

He sighed and looked down at his hand that he wasn’t leaning on, toying with the fabric of the blanket, before laying back down with an elongated exhale. He knew this conversation was over.

After a while of laying down in the sun in comfortable silence, you noticed that the clouds were starting to roll in more frequently, accompanied by a cooler breeze. When you craned your head back to look upwind, you saw the darkness of a storm system crawling across the sky.

“Hey Jungkook. I think we-“ Snore.

You cut yourself off at the sound, quickly snapping your head to survey the sleeping boy beside you. Eyebrows completely relaxed and lips slightly parted, he was a sight to behold. His hair had fallen over his eyes slightly, urging you to return the favor in brushing it out of the way. He stirred slightly before settling back down and sighing. What a sight to behold indeed.

The deep rumbling of thunder is what caused you both to jump and look at the sky. “Jesus.” He croaked while abruptly sitting up and rubbing at his eyes. “How long was I out?”

“I’m not sure. I only realized you were sleeping a few seconds ago.” You began picking up your things whilst he picked up the blanket, draping it over his arm.

The first few raindrops of the storm had only just begun; a light pitter-patter at random places in the grass began slowly at first, gradually picking up pace as you and Jungkook were packing up the last of your things.

You giggled as the rain started hitting your face. It reminded you of tiny, cold kisses. Jungkook, on the other hand, used the blanket to shield his head after slinging his backpack onto one shoulder. His face was scrunched up in an unconscious attempt to keep the rain out of his eyes.

“Let’s get out of here.” He huffed tiredly.

“Good idea.” You laughed.

The trek down the hill and back to Jungkook’s old truck accelerated to a jog following the increased pattern of raindrops hitting the ground. Before long, even you were seeking shelter under the blanket he was holding over his head. After a few minutes of laughing breathlessly and bumping into each other on the path back to the truck, you had decided to hold the other end of the blanket since he wasn’t really holding it over your head effectively. His free arm consequently ended up slung over your shoulders while your free arm draped over his.

The tan truck came into view after your twenty-minute journey back. By this point, the blanket had soaked through and both of you were drenched. Making quick work of the passenger side door, he slid in first to cross the seat while you followed suit with a huff.

“Well…” Jungkook trailed off, placing his bag and the wet blanket between you before running his fingers through his long and very wet hair in order to push it away from his eyes. “Shit.” He looked at you with finality and a small grin gracing his face.

You gazed at his beauty, glancing at his lips as he spoke, before meeting his chocolate brown gaze. Want filled your body as the adrenaline from the past few minutes surged through your veins, rendering you mute. Heartbeat running absolutely erratic and breath suddenly short, you became acutely aware of how tight of a space the two of you were in and how quiet the cabin of the truck became.

Oh, how you wanted to kiss him.

The seconds seemed to pass like hours. The mood in the truck morphed from playful and light to something else. Something thicker. Headier. Heavier.

The pressure of the moments passing by bristled you with tremors as your previous levels of adrenaline spiked almost uncontrollably. You didn’t miss the way his bottom lip twitched in the slightest of movement.

His eyes glanced at your lips for a split second, giving you no time to adjust to the quick movement, before his hand was on the back of your neck to usher you to him in a messy kiss. Heat flooded your body as the taste of his breath caressed your tongue.

“Y/N.” He breathed after momentarily pulling away. His dark eyes were filled with passionate fire, pupils dilated almost scarily. “You-” His lips reattached to yours before he could finish speaking, illuminating just how shocked and pleased he was with your kiss.

His lips were as soft as silk as they glid against your own, slotting perfectly in shape. His warm breath tasted mildly of morning breath- not that you minded- but mostly blueberry as you came to discover that he had slipped a jolly rancher into his mouth sometime during your journey back to the truck. You giggled at the thought of how much he loved candy, earning a smile from him as he continued to press his lips to your own.

There was no way you’d be able to pull away just to speak. Speaking was so unnecessary. Words were irrelevant in that moment.

Why speak when you could kiss him? When you could feel the way his lips moved against yours in ways they could never move when speaking? When they conveyed more emotions than any word could ever express? Why would you even bother ever speaking anymore when you could spend the rest of your life kissing Jeon Jungkook?

You answered your own questions as his arm lopped around your waist to pull your body closer to his: you wouldn’t.

Of course, those were thoughts in the heat of the moment. Simpler times called for simpler feelings. The pure and innocent ardor of love and adoration paired with the excitement of new attraction was a welcome sensation in contrast to the empty and cold feeling of your everyday life. You were sick of feeling numb.

Too many years were spent in emotional solitary confinement. Keeping your emotions at bay began affecting your health, causing your hair to thin and your skin to wither like paper. It took looking at yourself in the mirror after mulling over a photo of you and Jungkook before you noticed the difference. You hadn’t even noticed that you lost a considerable amount of weight.

Therapy had helped for a little while, but it didn’t assist you when you began seeing his face on news articles and TV once your sessions ended.

Even after the things that he had done, you were no stranger to the feeling of longing that you had for him- for the echoes of what used to be.

In your cold, companionless room, tears ran down your cheeks in mourning.

Of course, it was too good to last.

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prettywordsyouleft · 4 years ago

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Labelling Love | Part 4 (Collab)

Summary: Meeting you changed the way Eunwoo viewed romance and love entirely.

Pairing: Cha Eunwoo x female reader

Genre: university au / romance / fluff

Warnings: none

A/N: Welcome to the second series in the monthly Love In Fours Ways collab with @jackiejacks923 @noona-clock & @this-song-thats-only-for-you . In the final week of each month during this collab, we’ll be each sharing a mini-series using 4 of the pictures/concepts illustrated in the book that inspired our series that I’ve credited below.

Credit to: Puuung - Love Is In The Small Things // #76 , #60 , #4 , #33

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 // Collab Masterlist

Part 4 - Visiting The Library Together

Even after all this time of dating you, Eunwoo realised this was the first time he was meeting you at the library. He was always the one to arrive first or you would enter together.

It only hit him when the déjà vu experience washed over him as he stood in the lobby staring at you reading a book at the table. Much as it had two years ago, his heart began to thud erratically in his chest and his breathing heightened.

Unlike then, however, he grinned.

Eunwoo had been so scared to accept what he felt back then could have led to something as magical as he had with you now. Perhaps he was a hopeless romantic after all.

He was certain now that he had fallen in love with you at first sight.

Of course, it had taken him all this time to admit that to himself. However, ever since he had told you last winter that he loved you for the first time, he didn’t go long between uttering it again. And if he wasn’t in a position to say it out loud, he would show you.

Which was what he did when he reached out to give your shoulder a gentle squeeze before sitting down across from you at the table.

Closing the textbook, you rested your hands under your chin and stared over at him lovingly. “Hey you.”

“Studying going well?”

“Hm, let me see,” you said softly, staring at him for some time before nodding with a sly smile. “Yes, I think you’ll do.”

Eunwoo couldn’t help but chuckle despite rolling his eyes at your response. “Quit looking at my face and do something more productive. Exams are just around the corner.”

“I’d aced a test all about you.”

“There’s still a whole lot about me you have to learn, don’t be so rash.”

“Maybe you should give me a mock exam so I can stretch my expertise,” you offered and Eunwoo shook his head as he pulled out his laptop and textbook. You whined lightly. “You’re here to actually study?”

“Well, that’s why we meet up in the library, Y/N.”

“Didn’t you once say this is where you saw me before our first class together?”

“You remember that?”

“I even chose the same table.”

Eunwoo tilted his head as he looked over at you. “You choose the exact same table every time you study on this level.”

“Because it’s-”

“In the center of the room and provides the best studying environment. I know.”

You folded your arms across your chest with a smirk. “Are you practising for your exam on me?”

“No, I don’t have time to take that test yet,” he admitted, opening the screen to his laptop. “Though there is something I realised today.”

“Which is?”

“Back then I was struggling to know what I felt when I saw you for the first time.” Smiling over at you, Eunwoo entangled his legs with yours under the table. “It seems completely out of my depth, however.”

“What did you feel? Attraction? Did I intrigue you?” you wondered, dropping your hands onto the table and leaning in closer to learn the answer as if Eunwoo was about to utter a secret.

So he prepared it like one, looking around you both before whispering. “Love.”

“Don’t mess with me!” you huffed, getting up and heading into the rows of bookshelves to the right. Eunwoo abandoned his computer and followed you, pulling you further into an aisle where fewer people frequented. He then placed a hand upon the shelf above your head and the other around your waist. You gasped at his bold move. “What are you doing?!”

“You always call me a romantic. Isn’t this one of the moves made in romance novels? The handsome student blocks the main protagonist up against the books and hopes they don’t whisper of the sins that happen upon them?” he suggested before ducking his head down to kiss you.

Despite your concern before, once his lips melded against yours, you gripped at the front of his top and stretched up to meet him midway. The kiss was sweeter than usual, perhaps being chased with the concept of being caught out by another student. This idea spurred Eunwoo on, kissing you until he sensed movement coming towards you both.

Instantly reaching for the spine of a book, he then flipped it open and then blinked.

Of course, it was in Latin.

“Well, this is rather a difficult text to understand,” he mentioned as you slapped his chest and barely gave him the time to place it back on the shelf before dragging him back to your table. Gesturing for him to collect his belongings, you then dashed out of the library, all but running down the main steps leading into the largest building on campus.

And then you started to laugh.

“Okay, the one time you purposely put effort into being romantic and it feels way too much!” you confessed in between giggles and Eunwoo bit at his bottom lip whilst shrugging.

“You didn’t like it?”

“Who wouldn’t like that?” you admitted, poking him in the chest. “Especially with such a handsome student like you.”

“You know, as students, we should be studying right now,” he reminded, but you shook your head adamantly.

“How am I meant to understand anything today after hearing my boyfriend tell me he fell in love at first sight with me?”

“I guess that might be difficult to navigate.”

“I’m jealous,” you told him with a pout and Eunwoo frowned. Following you over to the stone ledge lining the library’s courtyard, you let out a dejected sigh. “I can’t say I fell in love at first sight with you.”

“Isn’t that a good thing?”

“Why would that be a good thing?” you wondered and Eunwoo leaned over to brush a strand of hair away from your face.

“Because you’ve been able to approach us with clarity for a whole lot longer than I have. From the very beginning, I’ve been overwhelmed by you. And it confused me because I thought I didn’t believe in things like love at first sight. Even though it’s the only thing that makes sense to me now, I wish I could contest it. Just so my logical side can be satisfied.”

“Logic has no place inside the heart,” you murmured, placing your hand over his. You beamed up at him. “That’s what belongs in your mind. Your heart led you to me. You shouldn’t regret that.”

“And you shouldn’t be jealous that it took you some time to let your heart find mine. I mean, you acted before me in most situations.”

“It’s been both of us. I distinctively remember almost face planting last Christmas when you told me you loved me.”

Eunwoo laughed. “I did appreciate you asking me out on our first date too.”

“We should continue to surprise each other like this.”

“Deal.”

“So what should we do now that we’re not going to study today?” you asked and Eunwoo shot you a look.

“Who says I can’t study today?”

“You’ll leave me to struggle like this?!”

“If you want to get behind in your studies all because I said some cheesy romantic lines to you, then that’s up to you.”

“Are you kidding me?!”

“You’re welcome to come over to mine whilst I study,” he offered and you glowered at Eunwoo, folding your arms firmly across your middle again.

“Can’t you go back to being the unproductive one in my company?”

“I had enough of that back then. It’s your turn now.” Eunwoo smirked. “But don’t worry I know how to help you with your problem. We’ll work together as a team. If you spend all your time with me, maybe you’ll be able to overcome this moment.”

You smiled, though your next words contradicted the gesture. “You’re not funny.”

“Who knows, you might not be the only one with feelings to explore,” he continued and you couldn’t hold back your laugh before diving into his arms.

Nestling against his shoulder, you let out a sigh of content. “I love visiting the library with you. We have spent a lot of our time together in that place.”

“Do you want to go back in but up to another floor?” he suggested and you lifted your head to glance at Eunwoo. He grinned mischievously. “If you can let me get an entire page of my exam essay written, I might even reward you again in the bookshelves.”

“What an offer,” you replied with a laugh and shook your head. “You underestimate your own self-control. I bet you’ll find yourself staring across at me and grow distracted from your studies altogether.”

“What will you do if that happens?”

Standing, you tugged Eunwoo back towards the building. “I guess I’ll have to press you into a bookshelf myself.”

“So either way, we’ll be thankful that the books don’t have ears?” he surmised and you giggled, heading back to the library, shooting him a demure look over your shoulder before bounding up the stairs again.

Eunwoo chased after you, knowing that he was eager to prove you wrong and end up rewarded. And even if he did fail and found himself staring at you mid-thought, he knew it would only lead to kissing you in the seclusion of an aisle of books.

Had he known back then that the initial reaction he felt towards you would lead to this; he knew he wouldn’t have believed it for a second.

But now that he believed in love at first sight, he was certain every time he looked up at you would lead him to further experiences shared together.

And that’s what love was all about, after all.

_________________

Thank you for supporting this series.

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#kwritersworldnet #cha eunwoo #eunwoo fiction #eunwoo fanfic #eunwoo romance #eunwoo fluff #eunwoo au #astro #astro fiction #astro fanfic #astro fluff #astro au #pwyl; labelling love #love in four ways collab #kpop fiction #kpop fanfic #kpop fluff #kpop romance

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hidden-otaku-stuff · 4 years ago

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Recommendations (Hidden Corner series)

Hidden Corner: A series of fluffy, full-length one-shots detailing the lives of the employees who work at Hidden Corner featuring the various Haikyuu boys.

*Note: All one-shots take place in the same universe with the same characters.

AN: Reposting if you saw this earlier because it wasn’t showing up in the tags. 🤞 four times a charm?

Word count: 2k

Pairing: Student!Akaashi x female Cafe-Owner!reader

Genre: fluff!

Summary: After getting tired of his usual black coffee, Akaashi checks out the cafe down the street which is home to some of the more unorthodox and unique drinks. Needless to say, he takes all the help that he can get.

Masterlist | Menu

Recommendations

Akaashi entered the quaint cafe, eyes scanning the interior. It was cute to say the least. It looked like any other pearl tea shop if Akaashi was being honest. He stepped further into the cafe, getting into the rather short line. Despite being only a ten-minute walk from campus, the cafe surprisingly wasn’t too busy. Only two out of the dozen tables had occupants. Kuroo had recommended this cafe, citing that it was the home of incredible - albeit somewhat unorthodox - drinks.

“Don’t you ever get bored of getting the same thing?” Kuroo asked, glancing over at his friend. They were sitting at the university cafe. Kuroo was sipping on an espresso macchiato whereas Akaashi was drinking a simple black coffee.

Akaashi raised an eyebrow, barely sparing the male a glance as he continued to proof-read his essay. “Why are you asking if you get the same thing every time we come here?”

Kuroo snorted. “Only when we come here.” He took another sip of his drink. “There’s this real nice place a few blocks away. You should go there sometime.”

“Why’s that?”

“The drinks are a bit...unusual, but they somehow end up being exactly what you need.”

“Is that so?”

“Yeah, I go there a few times a week.” Kuroo clapped a hand on the younger male’s back. “I highly recommend it.”

Gunmetal blue scanned the menu, confusion filling his features. The sheer variety was overwhelming for the male. How on Earth is he going to find something that fulfills needs that he didn’t even know he had? Maybe he should just get his normal black coffee after all.

“First time?”

He jumped, looking over his shoulder. He offered you a soft smile. “Yes, my friend recommended this shop.”

“Welcome to Hidden Corner. A mini-paradise from the hustle and bustle of the world,” you giggle.

Akaashi nodded. “Thank you.”

“What brings you here?”

Akaashi steps forward as the next customer goes to order. “I wanted to try something new, but,” he gestures to the menu, “I’m a bit overwhelmed.”

You scan his features, eyes narrowed in a slight squint. “Ask for a spiced citrus coffee. I think you’d like it.” He raises an eyebrow before nodding. He was relieved that he didn’t have to think about his purchase any longer. As he orders his coffee, he could see you rocking on the balls of your feet, anticipation evident in your feature. Akaashi steps to the side, waiting patiently for his drink. “Surprise me, Yuuji,” you grin at the barista who did a two-finger salute before taking the cute panda mug you handed him.

“Anything for you, (Name).”

As you pay, a different barista hands him his drink. He carefully takes a sip, his eyes widening at the flavor. Turning to face you, you’re already setting up your books at the counter. Akaashi steps towards you, hesitation filling him. “How did you know?”

You look up at him, smiling. “How did I know you’d like it?” Akaashi nods, taking another sip. The scent overwhelmed his senses, a warm fuzzy feeling filling him. “You just seemed tired, and that drink is one of my favorites to brighten up my day. Tastes like Christmas, doesn’t it?”

At the sentiment, Akaashi smiles. “Yes it does.”

“I’m glad you like it.” Yuuji hands you your drink. “Thanks Yuuji.” You look over your shoulder at Akaashi once more. “Bring your own mug next time. They give discounts.” You sip your drink thoughtfully. “Oh! And make sure it’s ceramic.”

****

The door chimes as Akaashi stepped in, shaking his umbrella slightly before placing it into the umbrella stand. He shook his head, lowering the hood of his raincoat. As he wiped his boots onto the mat, he was pleasantly surprised to see a familiar face behind the counter this time instead of in front. “Oh you’re back!” You greeted him with a warm smile.

“Yes I am. Hello (Name)-san,” he returned your smile. “That drink you gave me last time worked like a charm.”

“I bet,” you chirped. Your (e/c) eyes scanned him. “You look like you need a pomegranate cold brew,” you decide. “Is that alright?” Akaashi bit his lip, carefully thinking about it. It was obvious that here, you were the expert. He gave you a curt nod, handing over his ceramic mug.

“Alright, sure.” You grin before you turn around, making your way to a coffee pot. He noticed that there was over half of the pot remaining. Akaashi took a seat at the bar, watching the process. “Why pomegranate?” He inquired, raising an eyebrow at you as you carefully pour the drink into the mug.

“You’re a student right?” Akaashi nodded, brow furrowed. “Pomegranate helps improve your memory if drunk regularly. It’s also vitamin-rich so it promotes things like eye health, skincare, and helps to support your immune system.” You placed the mug onto a plate, handing it to the male with a sympathetic smile. “I’m sure that you’re busy from all your work, so it doesn’t hurt to get a little boost every now and then.”

He hums, taking a sip. His gunmetal blue eyes widened. “This is an unusual drink, but it is delicious. Thank you for your recommendation.”

You wave your hand nonchalantly. “It’s the least I could do for a return customer,” you smile. “Can’t have you getting sick so close to finals.”

You both look outside at the rain that poured down, the ambient piano soothing. “No, we can’t have that,” he replied. “Have a nice day.”

“You too!”

****

“Welcome back.”

“Thanks,” he mumbles, rubbing his eyes slightly. He didn’t know why, but he had found his feet leading to this small cafe. It had been an excruciatingly long week. Project after project with exams drizzled in led to many late nights and early mornings. To top it all, he hadn’t done so well in one of his most important projects.

“Need a pick-me-up?” you offer sympathetically, scanning his face. You could see the hint of stress wrinkles on his forehead as he blinked at you with blue eyes laden with dark, purple eye-bags.

He slumps into the bar-stool, nodding glumly. “Please.” Akaashi buries his face into his arms, leaving his ceramic mug onto the counter as he closes his eyes. Behind the counter, you turn on a small stove combining milk, chocolate syrup and brown sugar. You hum a gentle tune as you work. Akaashi lets out a sigh of comfort. The smell of coffee beans and the sound of your voice was soothing to his weary soul.

He was woken from his stupor by the sound of the mug being placed down. “I hope you enjoy it. Made it special for you.”

Blurry eyes look up at you, blinking his sleepiness away. “Thanks,” he mumbles as he sits up. Taking the mug in both hands, the warmth seeped through his cold clammy hands. Akaashi sipped the drink, letting the wave of cinnamon, vanilla, and chocolate overwhelm his features. His muscles relax as he lets out a sigh of relief. “How do you do it?”

You’re carefully wiping the counter. “Do what?”

“How do you know what drink would be perfect every time?”

You just offer him a smile. “When you work at a cafe for so long, you come to read and know your customers quite well. Regular or not.”

At your words, Akaashi understands why Kuroo frequents this shop so much. The love and care put into every drink, the dedication you gave to providing the best experience. It was ridiculous to think that this cafe wasn’t busy. He takes another sip, savoring the warmth that spread through his body. ‘A mini-paradise’, you had called it the first time he’d met you. Yes, indeed.

****

“Studying today?”

You glance up from your books, offering the male a soft smile. “Of course. It is exam season after all.” You gesture to the empty seat in front of you. “Please, take a seat.” Akaashi gave you a small smile before slipping into the seat, letting his bag fall to the side. You stood up, throwing an apron on as you made your way behind the counter. His blue eyes scan the books on the table, picking out a few psychology books amongst the titles. The sound of your feet shuffling brings his attention back up to you. “Being nosy?”

Akaashi gives you a wry smile, “a little bit.” You place a plate of warmed chocolate croissants down along with a pink drink. He raises his eyebrows at the drink. “Why is it pink?”

“I used a little bit of food colouring,” you smile. “It’s a rose coffee drink. It’s a bit lighter than the other drinks I’ve recommended, but it’s fragrant and is perfect for the weather.” You both look out to the bright spring sun.

“I see.” Akaashi looked down at the drink, smiling as he watched the rose petals float along the surface. “And the croissants?”

You shrug. “A good study snack. Don’t tell me you turn down free food and coffee,” you tease, (e/c) eyes find his. He just chuckled, shaking his head slightly. “Please, feel free to study with me.”

“Was that not why you invited me to sit with you?”

You laugh, nodding. “You’re right.” He takes a careful sip of his drink, letting his eyes flutter shut as he takes in the flavour. It wasn’t too sweet or too bitter. “So how is it?”

“Excellent as always, (Name)-san.”

You snort, “Of course it is. Though I hardly think that I’m older than you.” Pausing, your nose crinkles. “Y’know, I don’t think I know your name. My apologies.”

Akaashi shakes his head giving you a soft smile. “I don’t think I had an opportunity to tell you.” He extends a hand to you, “I’m Akaashi Keiji.”

“(L.Name, Name).” You guys shake hands. He was pleasantly surprised to find that your hand was quite soft. Akaashi brings out his laptop, delicately placing it in front of him so that he could start his research paper revisions.

“So do you just work here?”

You chuckle, shaking your head. “I’m actually the owner.”

“His eyes widened. “The owner? You’re quite young to own this cafe.”

You shrug, taking a sip from your own mug. Akaashi stifles a chuckle at the design. It was a panda wearing a barista apron holding its own mug of coffee. A cloud bubble above the panda read ‘Life happens but coffee helps’. Akaashi raises his eyes to meet yours steadily. “My parents owned the cafe and passed it along to me when they got too tired of managing it. Think they’re somewhere in Europe by now.”

“Isn’t it difficult?”

“What is?”

Akaashi scans the interior, wondering which parts of it came from you and which part came from your parents’ influence. “Managing the cafe and school-work.”

You chuckle, giving him a small smile. “It was at first,” you admit. “But I practically grew up in the cafe, so my parents taught me how to do so at the beginning.”

Akaashi pulls out his padfolio, searching through it for his notes. “You know something?”

You hum in response, already looking back down at your textbooks. “Yes?”

“I would love to learn how to read people like you do.” Leaning back in your seat, you take one of the croissants and bite into it, gently pushing the plate towards him. “I used to have a friend,” he picks up a croissant examining it, “who I could easily motivate to get out of his…‘emo’ moods. But I still find it difficult to read people.” He flicks through notes from one of his classes, taking a bite out of the pastry. “Not all people are as easy to read, unfortunately. Not compared to books, anyways.”

You chuckle, shaking your head lightly as you brush off the crumbs from your fingers. “No, they aren’t.” Clearing your throat, you offer him a smile. “So, wanna learn how to read people like me?”

“That’d be nice.”

“So, would that be a date then?” You smirk.

Red roses bloom in his cheeks. “If you want it to be.”

“I suppose you’d be a good test subject for my drinks,” you tease.

Akaashi chuckles. “As long as you’re the one making it, I’d try anything.”

AN: All of the drinks are inspired by real recipes!

All one-shots in the Hidden Corner series exist in the same universe where characters may interact with the ‘Reader’ from the other one-shots. I will be giving each ‘Reader’ a place-holder name when they are referenced in the other one-shots to ease confusion!

This will be a side-project, so new updates will generally not be scheduled!

general taglist: @scrappydaisies @agaassi @newfriendjen

Please contact me if you would like to be a part of the Hidden Corner taglist! 💞 Check out this link for information about my taglists.

#akaashi keiji #akaashi keiji x reader #akaashi keiji fluff #haikyuu imagines #hq imagines #haikyuu #haikyuu fanfiction #hq fanfiction #haikyuu Au #hq au #haikyuu cafe AU #hq cafe aU #keiji akaashi #keiji akaashi fluff

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ravenarld · 4 years ago

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A Lonely Birthday Part 1 (School AU)

Fandom: Ikemen Revolution

Pairing: Zero x Alice/Reader

Genre: SFW

Summary: "Zero...thank you for giving me a reason to celebrate my birthday again."

A/N: I wrote this on bday on May, I just changed the names cuz this fits Zero. This story is based on how I felt on bday a few months ago.

AO3

"This work is perfect as always, Zero! Keep up the amazing work!"

Everyone looked at their teacher as he praised him again…

"Ah…I'm jealous."

"Me too. I hope I can become as excellent as him."

"We just have to work so we can reach his level."

"Right!"

I glanced at my classmates as they whispered then back to the subject of their gossip. Zero is one of my classmates who is recognized for his silent nature but also for his hard work. He was a new student. He doesn't talk very much and is very private about his personal life. He only talks when it's school-related.

That's what I have observed from my perspective…

“Ah...what I was thinking about...I should continue finishing this...” I murmured to myself as I turned back my focus on my paper.

However, I glanced at my side where Zero is seated next to me. Something caught my eyes, and it was a planner opened on the page of this week.

"Happy Birthday" was written on May 5th...

That's in 5 days! I wonder whose birthday it is. His mom? His dad? His girlfriend?

I was cut off from daydream land by the call of my name.

"Alice?" I snapped back to reality and realized that it was Zero who was staring at me curiously.

"Yes?"

"Nothing…" he said then went back to work. I sighed. I really need to stop being curious.

But still...whose birthday is he celebrating?

5 days passed by and I already passed my teacher my essay before the deadline. Thank goodness that he approved it. I don't wish to spend another all-nighter. Perhaps, I should reward myself with a good dinner out to celebrate. Yeah, I deserve it after spending sleepless nights on that essay.

I went back to my desk, taking a glance at Zero's. There on the desk was a small box. Oh yeah, that's right, he's celebrating someone's birthday today. Hmm…how lucky is that person...

Hours passed by and classes were over. I quickly grabbed my things and coat and raced out of school. The restaurant that I usually go to is often packed during these hours.

It was a few minutes away from my school. Unfortunately, when I got there, it was already packed. I pouted. To think, I was looking forward to their special pasta tonight. Sighing, I was about to head out when,

"Alice!" Turning around, I gasped in disbelief. There on the corner of the small diner was Zero, waving at me shyly. I approached him carefully as if he was some sort of predator.

"Hello, Zero. I didn't expect you to be here." I greeted.

"I always go here. Especially since I'm waiting for someone to celebrate their special occasion." He replied. Ahh...that's right.

"Oh…well...I must go now and find another available restaurant to eat. It was nice seeing you." I don't want to bother; thus, I was about to walk away when he called out to me once more.

"But it's you who I'm waiting for."

"What?!" I exclaimed which was a humiliating move because almost everyone in the room looked in our direction. I embarrassingly sat down across Zero and awkwardly coughed, "This is quite unexpected."

He chuckled. This is my first time seeing such a cheerful expression on his face. Somehow that made me giddy.

"It is, but honestly, I've been trying to figure out how to approach you about this umm...topic."

I raised an eyebrow, "What topic?"

"You see. I have coincidentally been seeing you in this after a week after my transfer. I mean, I don't mean to stalk you because I happened to be eating at this very restaurant too." I smiled gently as he tried to explain. So this is how you are.

"Weird that I never noticed you for 5 years," I mumbled to myself, but he heard it.

"Weird indeed. But I don’t really talk to anyone, nor anyone talk to me, so it might be understandable. However, throughout those five years, I have been observing you from afar. I have picked up some of your little habits...wait that sounded weird."

At this point, I couldn't hold in my laughter. The quiet Zero at school is unbelievably shy and blushing. His face was red as an apple. I must say, this Zero was adorable and friendlier than the Zero I see every day in class

"You do sound weird but adorably weird," I told him, hoping that will calm him, but that only made him blush more.

"Umm...what I'm trying to say is that I was waiting for you to celebrate a special occasion." I stopped laughing and tried to listen to him but was shocked when he continued,

"and that occasion is your birthday."

I stared at him in disbelief. I can't believe it. Out of all people to remember my birthday, it was Zero. Truth be told, I have also forgotten that today was my birthday. It's not like it was special in my life. You simply age a year and that's it. There's nothing exciting about it. However, that's not really the reason why I chose to forget my birthday.

"Alice," Zero called out, making me return back to reality, "I remember during the first 3 years, you would bring a mini cupcake then light up the candle then blow it. That action alone was enough for me to know that you were always celebrating your birthday alone. Then last year, you didn't do it. Then I thought that you were feeling so lonely that you didn't want to celebrate it at that time. It honestly pained me to see you sad at that time. So, I gathered up all the courage to celebrate it with you. But don't mistake it as pity but I simply want you to be happy."

I felt that tears fell down my cheeks. Oh gosh...this guy might be a man of few words but when he speaks, he knows his words when he's not flustered. He may not be close to me, but he was kind-hearted enough not to know on my own birthday.

"It is true that I didn't celebrate my birthday last year due to the insufferable pain of loneliness I was experiencing. Since then, I told myself to forget my own birthday to avoid the pain. Since at a young age, my parents couldn't celebrate with me because they were always busy. I didn't have any friends since I have trouble interacting with people. Well, there was a point in time where I had a friend but, in the end, that friend has taken advantage of my kindness and has betrayed me in the end. So, since then, I could no longer trust anyone, leaving me incapable to make friends.

I became that girl who only focused on their studies. I thought that I probably don't need anyone in my life to be happy, but I was wrong. I grew sadder each day that I have to my own happiness fake to not bother anyone with my problems. I see myself as a burden you see," I said the last part jokingly, trying to keep my remaining pride in me but Zero didn't seem to be happy with my "joke"...

Continue on Part 2

Buy me coffee

#ikemen revolution #ikerev #ikerev zero #ikerev fanfic #ikemen revolution fanfic

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goindownshipping · 5 years ago

Text

You make me feel something like summertime

Pairing: Peter Parker/Tony Stark (Starker)

Rating: Teen (T)

Notes: I was thinking about my own beach vacation and my head was suddenly filled with thoughts of Starker meeting at the beach. The following fluff ensued. Thanks to @ohwereusingourmadeupnames for several nudges throughout this!

Words: 4.6k

Summary:

There was the older couple staying a few houses down that always walked by in the late afternoon, the family with three kids that passed by around noon, and then there was the Golden Boy, as Peter had started calling him in his head. He was Peter’s favorite. He strolled by in the mid-afternoon with a couple of older folks, who Peter assumed were his parents. Golden Boy had dark, curly hair, his upper body was tan from days in the sun, and his smile was more blinding than the sun’s reflection off the ocean.

Or, Peter and Tony only have eyes for each other while they’re both on vacation with their families. A lovely summer romance follows.

Throughout his entire life, Peter couldn’t remember anything better than summer vacation. His childhood was filled with plenty of ups and downs, more downs if he was being honest, but summer vacation was always a highlight. Although he and May didn’t live a life of luxury, their annual summer trip was, without fail, the best week of the year.

Over the years, the trips to the family beach house contained more memories and traditions than Peter could possibly put into words. As a child, he lost his first tooth at the house, conquered his fear of jellyfish (mostly), and learned the hard way why he needed sunscreen on his ears. As he got older, the week at the beach provided much-needed relief from the stresses of summer jobs, college essays, and job applications. No matter what was going on in his world, the beach made everything better, it was truly his happy place, no matter how cheesy that sounded even to himself.

During college, the trips to the beach were more difficult. New jobs and less time off made the annual trip less frequent, but all the more special. A few years post-grad, Peter was settled into his job enough to take the time off for him and May to take their trip. It had been a couple of years since they’d gone, and Peter was itching for that feeling of home. As soon as the salty, humid air filled his lungs, Peter felt his entire being fill with relief. May had barely parked their rental car at the house when Peter practically ran down the walkway, eager to feel his toes in the sand and let the sounds of the ocean drown out the buzzing of work he’d left behind.

May came up behind him, equally relieved to be at her family’s beach house.

“Feels like we never left, huh?” she sighed.

Peter took a deep breath in, trying to soak in as much sea and sand as he could. “Best feeling in the world,” he agreed.

The next day passed in a blur of rolling out of bed late and heading straight for the beach - after he covered himself in sunscreen, thank you very much. He and May spent the day in comfortable quiet, sharing snippets of the books they read, pointing out cute dogs on the beach, and deciding which restaurant they wanted to visit that night. It was peaceful, comforting, and everything Peter needed from a vacation.

The following day, Peter started recognizing the faces of folks that passed their chairs on daily walks and shared kind smiles in acknowledgment. There was the older couple staying a few houses down that always walked by in the late afternoon, the family with three kids that passed by around noon, and then there was the Golden Boy, as Peter had started calling him in his head. He was Peter’s favorite. He strolled by in the mid-afternoon with a couple of older folks, who Peter assumed were his parents. Golden Boy had dark, curly hair, his upper body was tan from days in the sun, and his smile was more blinding than the sun’s reflection off the ocean.

Peter attempted to be subtle when he walked by, but even his dark sunglasses couldn’t hide the way he stared when the other man passed by. After the first time he’d walked past, Peter was determined to find out where this beautiful human was staying. He immediately popped up to take his own beach walk, searching for the bright red and gold swim trunks he’d seen the man wearing. When his eyes found the very loud fabric, he blushed, finding Golden Boy’s eyes trained on him. They shared a small smile, neither man willing to take the leap to say hello.

Tony looked up from his seat in the sand, struck by the curly-haired boy he’d seen on his walk a short while ago. Although he complained at his parents’ insistence that he walk with them, he was grateful he’d given in. The man he’d seen lounging under his umbrella absolutely took his breath away, and he was thrilled to see those long legs passing in front of him now. He smiled shyly, hoping his blush was hidden by the slight sunburn on his cheeks. His attention was quickly redirected by his mother calling from him from their walkway, forcing him to turn away. When he looked back, the other man was already headed back the way he came; Tony could only hope that meant he’d walked all this way just looking for him.

The following day, Tony and Peter took more beach walks than either of them had taken in their lives. Each time they passed each other they shared a smile, maybe a wave. At one point, Peter was taking a quick dip in the ocean, cooling off from the sweltering heat and humidity. As soon as his head popped up out of the water, his eye’s met Golden Boy’s. The other man appeared to stop in his tracks, just staring for a moment. Bravely, Peter threw him a wink before pushing off the sand and diving further into the water.

By late afternoon, they both started walking toward the other at the same time, unintentionally colliding mid-walk. They saw each other at a distance, slowly approaching each other in the sea of people around them. As they got closer, they both slowed, coming to a stop in front of each other. Peter looked down at the tide washing over their feet, not sure what to say to the person in front of him.

“In all the years I’ve been coming here, I’ve never decided to take a walk on my own,” Tony shared quietly. “I blame you for all the exercise I’ve done today”.

Peter let out a loud laugh, unable to stop the snort that accompanied it.

“That’s about the best thing I’ve ever been blamed for, so I’ll take it”.

Peter smiled up at Golden Boy, unable to resist. He extended a hand between them, gripping tightly when the other man reciprocated the gesture.

“I’m Peter”.

“Nice to meet you Peter, I’m Tony”.

“Tony,” Peter repeated with a smile. “It’ll be nice to stop referring to you as Golden Boy in my head,” he admitted.

“I don’t know, I might prefer that,” Tony chuckled.

They dropped the hands between them, and Peter returned his gaze to the sand, unsure how to continue their conversation. Tony interrupted his thoughts before he could get too unsure of himself.

“Well, since we’re both walking, we could walk together?” Tony asked carefully.

Peter nodded, excited at the prospect of getting to talk to Tony a bit longer.

The two men walked for nearly an hour, completely unaware of time passing or any obligations they had to their respective families. Peter learned that Tony had been visiting this same beach for years but usually came much later in the summer. Peter blushed when Tony noted it was a shame it took this long for them to cross paths. Peter talked about living in Boston and Tony lit up, excitedly sharing that he’d gone to MIT before moving to New York City. The two of them swapped favorite stories and traditions at the beach, embarrassing moments from college, and agreed that the working world was far more terrifying than they expected.

At some point, they turned around and started walking back toward both of their houses. When they finally made it back to Peter’s house, they came to a stop. May had already headed up to the house, just Peter’s chair remained under the umbrella.

“Are you free at all tomorrow?” Peter asked before he could think too long about it.

“I have a very busy day of doing nothing on the beach,” Tony grinned.

“Can I steal you for a couple of hours in the afternoon?” Peter requested.

“Absolutely, Petey. I’ll meet you here at two o’clock?”

“That’s perfect, Tony”.

Tony reached out to take one of Peter’s hands, squeezing tightly before turning and continuing down the beach toward his house. Peter quickly gathered the last of his belongings on the beach before turning toward their walkway. He took one glance in Tony’s direction, thrilled to see Tony looking back at him over his shoulder. They shared a quick smile before nodding and heading off.

When Peter opened the sliding glass door to the living room, he was met with May’s knowing gaze. He smiled, knowing she’d see right through it.

“So, I uh, I need the car tomorrow afternoon,” he explained.

“Is that so?” May asked with a smile. “Does this have to do with your sudden interest in beach walks? It’s romantic, don’t get me wrong, but not really your style,” she pressed.

Peter sighed, sitting down across from her. “His name is Tony. I don’t know May, there’s just something about him. He’s brilliant, makes me laugh, makes me feel,” he paused, “important, somehow. I know that sounds nuts, but, uh, yeah. I’m taking him mini-golfing tomorrow”.

May just nodded, happy to see Peter excited about someone. “Well, I expect a full report tomorrow night”.

With that, May left the living room, squeezing Peter’s shoulder on her way toward the kitchen. Peter was grateful for the easy relationship they’d always had. They were everything to each other for as long as Peter could remember and he would never take that for granted.

The rest of the evening and the following morning were uneventful for both Peter and Tony. Both men went about their respective routines and family traditions, counting the minutes until their date. Tony’s parents had pressed him when he arrived home after the walk with Peter, mostly concerned about his absence from cocktail hour. He brushed them off, letting them know he’d be out for a few hours the following afternoon. His dad hadn’t thought twice about it, but Tony didn’t miss the small smile on his mother’s face, curious about her son’s happy demeanor.

On the beach the next day, Peter refrained from taking any walks down the beach, not wanting to appear too excited to see Tony. He knew they would have some time to themselves later, and that was more than enough to look forward too. Tony, apparently, got roped into another walk with his parents and smiled widely when he passed Peter in the middle of the day. May glanced up, watching the interaction between Peter and Tony, smiling to herself at the way Tony looked at her nephew.

A few minutes before two o’clock, Peter was showered and ready, dressed in casual shorts and a t-shirt. It was far too warm for anything nicer, even for a first date. He perched himself on the railing of their walkway, facing the direction of Tony’s house, eagerly awaiting the other man. When he saw Tony emerge from the crowds of people on the beach, it felt like his breath had been knocked out of his lungs. Tony was wearing slim-cut shorts that ended just above his knees, and a short sleeve button up that hugged his waist. His golden skin went on for miles, and Peter couldn’t tear his eyes away.

Before he knew it, Tony had ascended the few steps and came to a stop directly in front of Peter.

“Tony, you look incredible,” Peter breathed.

“Thank you,” Tony blushed. “You look lovely as well, Peter”.

He smiled, hopping down from his perch on the railing. “Shall we?”

“We shall,” Tony answered easily. “Although, you never did tell me what you have planned for us”.

“How do you feel about mini-golf?” Peter asked.

“You’re on Pete,” Tony beamed.

They made their way to the car, and Peter led Tony to the passenger door before opening it for him. Tony smiled a brilliant, heart-stopping smile, and Peter had to fight the urge to comment on it out loud. The drive to the mini-golf course was comfortable. The radio played quietly while Tony and Peter chatted about their music preferences, both sharing a love of live music and concerts. They laughed when they discovered they’d attended the same Shakey Graves show in Boston a couple of years prior.

Peter pulled into his favorite mini-golf course, the same one he and May used to come to every summer. He and Tony were surprised to find the course mostly empty, pleased to have the place almost to themselves. Once they were situated with their colorful golf balls and putters, they approached the first hole.

“I feel like now is the time to tell you that I’m really good at this,” Tony said as he lined up his first putt.

“Well, I’m absolutely terrible, so we’re in for a fun afternoon,” Peter laughed.

True to their words, the first couple of holes were smooth sailing for Tony, easily navigating windmills and tunnels, while Peter just tried not to hit his golf ball out of bounds. They shared easy smiles and soft touches as they passed each other between putts. When Peter launched a putt clear over the barrier, Tony just winked as he replaced the ball, giving him several do-overs.

“How did you get so good at mini-golf anyway?” Peter asked as they walked toward the next tee.

“So full disclosure, I’m a total nerd,” Tony began. “I studied physics in college and my friends and I used to make our own little courses to try and stump each other. They got crazier over the years, it just became our thing”.

“You’re right, you are a nerd, but that also sounds amazing,” Peter chuckled.

“It’s still a thing too,” Tony continued. “My best friend Rhodey is getting married later this year and his bachelor party is going to be one big homemade mini-golf course, designed by yours truly”.

“You have a lot going on in that head, don’t you?” Peter inquired, turning to head for the next hole.

Tony just shrugged. “I guess so, I’ve just gotten used to it over the years. I am pretty hyperactive though,” he admitted with a touch of self-deprecation.

Their hands were hanging between them, nearly close enough to brush pinkies. In a moment of bravery, Peter reached out and squeezed Tony’s hand tightly, hoping to convey even a fraction of the thoughts and feelings swirling inside of him. Tony gripped back, just as tightly, smiling over at Peter.

The rest of the course passed in a similar fashion. Tony gave Peter all the extra shots he wanted while absolutely smoking Peter with too many holes-in-one to count. They held hands each time they advanced to the next hole, grinning at each other every time. As they approached the final hole, complete with an upside-down loop, Peter was determined to get it on the first try.

Tony stepped up first, demonstrating where to aim and how hard to hit, making it through the loop easily. His red golf ball rolled easily down the turf, dropping into the cup.

Peter pouted slightly. “Now that’s just unfair”.

Tony laughed, walking down the path toward the loop. He used his putter to point out where Peter should aim. “Aim for this right here, and hit it harder than you think you need to, nice and easy”.

Peter rolled his eyes, stepping up to his blue golf ball. He checked his aim, rolled his shoulders, and took a deep breath. He swung back and through, feeling the solid contact with the putter. He watched the golf ball glide down the turf, taking the loop with ease and slowly approaching the cup. He held his breath, willing the ball to make it to the lip of the cup. He dashed down to where Tony was standing so he could see how far his shot made it. When he saw the little blue golf ball just barely drop into the cup, he threw his arms up in celebration.

“Yes!” he exclaimed.

Tony erupted with loud applause, cheering for Peter’s success. Peter absolutely beamed at him, and Tony was taken aback by the beauty in front of him. Without much thought, he wrapped Peter up in a big hug. Peter’s arms were trapped between their torsos, but he was more than happy at that moment. He couldn’t understand why he was so excited about silly mini-golf shot, but if it meant Tony hugging him like this, he wouldn’t question it.

When they pulled back from the hug, they both smiled at each other, happy and carefree. They were pulled out of their reverie by a father and daughter approaching, clearly trying to finish their own round of golf. Peter blushed, grabbing Tony’s hand and dragging him toward the little clubhouse to drop off their putters. They continued holding hands as they walked toward the car and this time, Tony approached the driver’s side to open the door for Peter, waiting until he was settled before shutting the door firmly.

Peter grinned widely, waiting for Tony to round the car and get settled on the passenger side. As soon as they were set, they started back toward the beach. Tony shared more stories about college at MIT and his favorite parts of Boston. Peter took it all in, still figuring out the city he now called home. Tony made several restaurant recommendations, most of which Peter hadn’t even heard of yet. As they turned down the quiet street leading to their houses, Tony directed Peter a bit further to his own driveway.

Before exiting the car, Tony turned to Peter with a slight blush on his cheeks.

“Thank you Peter, I haven’t had that much fun in a while, honestly.”

“Me too, Tony. Come find me on the beach tomorrow morning?” He asked hopefully.

“You bet, Petey”.

The next morning, Tony did exactly that. Peter had just gotten settled under the umbrella with May, an extra chair next to him, when Tony approached. May smiled but kept her attention trained on the book she was reading, giving Peter some privacy. Peter stood, smiling widely at Tony.

“You came,” he said with relief.

“Of course I did”.

Tony came in close, giving Peter a tight hug before stepping away to introduce himself to May.

“You must be Ms. Parker,” Tony said, extending his hand as May rose to her feet.

“Oh lord, please call me May, honey”.

“May, it’s great to meet you, I’m Tony. Thank you so much for letting me crash your beach day with Peter,” he said sincerely.

“Sure thing, Tony. What’s a good beach trip without good company?” May winked in Peter’s direction, making him groan with embarrassment. Even at 25 years old, May knew exactly how to embarrass him.

“Alright, enough of that. Tony, I brought you a chair and an extra towel,” Peter gestured toward the beach gear.

May subtly scooted her chair a bit further over, giving the men some space of their own.

Peter and Tony settled into their chairs, with just a hint of space between them. They spent the whole day lounging on the beach together, taking leisurely walks, and jumping in the ocean when the heat became unbearable. It was surprisingly easy to spend such an extended amount of time together. They never seemed to run out of things to talk about, but also sat in companionable quiet while reading and people-watching. Every so often, they would head up to the house, grabbing snacks and cold drinks for them and May. Peter quickly showed Tony around the house, loving the way Tony’s eyes widened with the stories he told throughout the short tour.

The next day, Peter threw his beach gear in a bag and headed down the beach to Tony’s umbrellas. Tony had been more than willing to come back to Peter’s spot, but Peter insisted, wanting to see Tony in his own element. As he approached, Tony met him at the water’s edge, twining their hands together with a big smile.

“My parents are a lot,” he said quickly. “But my mom is excited to meet you”.

“I’m good with a lot, Tony”.

Tony pulled him toward the umbrellas in front of his house, his parents already standing from their chairs.

“Mom, Dad, this is Peter. His family’s house is down just past the big green one. Peter, this is my mom Maria and my dad Howard”.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you Mr. and Mrs. Stark,” Peter greeted as he stepped forward to shake Maria’s hand.

“Call us Maria and Howard, dear,” she said easily, smiling kindly at Peter.

Peter turned to Howard, shaking his hand with a firm grip and a small nod. Peter knew the relationship between Howard and Tony was tense, but he could see the love for his son in Howard’s eyes.

“Thank you so much for having me down here for a bit today,” he said, mimicking Tony’s statement to May.

“Nonsense, we’re happy to have you,” Maria waved off.

Peter and Tony spent the say much like the previous one, laughing and smiling, sharing a few more touches as they got more comfortable with each other. At one point, Tony challenged Peter to a round of bocce ball and hauled his family’s set up from the house. Their competitive spirits kept them entertained for a while, each man throwing the Palina further away than the last round. After one too many close calls with the dog in the group next to them, they packed up the set and settled on a swim, desperate to rinse the sand off.

Peter wasn’t sure what happened when they got in the water, but suddenly it was as if magnets pulled them closer together, unable to separate for too long. They floated out to shoulder-deep water and Tony felt Peter’s arms wind around his waist, pulling him in close. Embracing the buoyancy of the water, Tony allowed himself to be pulled into Peter and wrapped his legs around Peter’s waist, his arms settling around Peter’s neck. Water-slick skin slid together easily, and Tony found himself bobbing with the current, secure in Peter’s grasp.

“Hey there, Pete,” he breathed, his nose nearly pressed against Peter’s.

“Is this okay Tony? I just couldn’t help myself,” Peter admitted shyly.

“More than okay, as long as you don’t dunk me under a wave”.

They stayed like that, just holding each other close, bouncing with the waves, enjoying the feeling of being pressed together. They were both avoiding the same topic, neither wanting to break the spell they’d fallen under together. Eventually, Tony leaned his head into Peter’s shoulder, sighing loudly.

“So, we leave tomorrow,” Peter began.

“If we ignore it, maybe it won’t happen,” Tony pouted.

Peter squeezed Tony tightly. “What do you want to happen, Tony? After we leave tomorrow, anything can happen,” he murmured.

“I want us to keep doing this. I mean, obviously we can’t stay in an ocean forever, but I want there to be an us”. Tony lifted his head from where it was resting against Peter’s shoulders, gauging the other man’s reaction.

Peter leaned in, closing the minimal distance between them and pressed a salty kiss to Tony’s lips. He kept one hand secured around Tony’s waist and brought the other one up to tangle in Tony’s hair, holding him close as if the waves would carry him away. Tony hummed against Peter’s lips, tightening his arms around Peter’s shoulders.

A wave knocked them off balance, causing them to pull back with a gasp. Once he had his feet under him again, Peter smiled at Tony.

“I’d very much like for there to be an us too, Tony”.

“New York and Boston really aren’t that far apart, right?”

“Definitely not too far,” Peter agreed. “We should probably head up, huh? I promised May I’d be back in time to make dinner”.

“Only if you let me steal you in the morning before we go. Just a quick walk?”

“Sounds perfect Tony”.

With that, Tony unwound his legs from Peter’s waist, opting to grab his hand as they made their way toward the shore. Once Peter had his beach bag in hand, Tony leaned in to leave a quick kiss on Peter’s cheek.

“See you bright and early, Pete”.

“Bright and early, Tones”.

When Peter finally made it back to the house, May was waiting on the porch. He knew his smile gave him away when May raised her eyebrows in surprise.

“So, not just a beach fling, Peter?”

Peter shook his head. “Not just a beach fling”.

With that, Peter headed inside for a quick shower before starting on dinner for the two of them. He felt bad that he hadn’t spent as much time with May this trip, so he planned to make it up to her that night. Once dinner was ready and they were seated on the porch, he couldn’t help but gush about Tony. May just smiled, trying to remember seeing Peter this excited about something.

“So, when are you gonna visit him?” she asked.

“Um, we haven’t really talked about it yet. I guess we’ll just see how things go for now,” he said nervously.

“Make plans before we leave Peter. Distance is hard, but having a date to look forward to makes things easier, May advised.

Their conversation shifted after that, and they talked late into the night wishing their vacation would never end. Before Peter went to sleep that night, he checked his calendar for open weekends, wondering how soon he could visit Tony. On a whim, he bought a train ticket to New York for just over a month later, hoping Tony wouldn’t find it aggressive. He went to sleep with a smile on his face, hopeful for what was to come.

At eight o’clock the next morning Tony and Peter met up on the beach, about halfway between their houses, exactly where they’d collided on a walk just a few days prior. Time moved differently that week; Peter felt as if he’d known Tony much longer than he had.

They joined hands and walked quietly, enjoying the emptiness of the beach as most families were packing up and leaving that day. They smiled as they passed by some other folks soaking up their last few breaths of salty air, doing the same thing themselves.

Tony was the one to break the silence after a while. “This feels silly at this point, but um, can I have your number?”

Peter cracked up at that, looking over at Tony who smiled right back at him. He reached for his phone and handed it to Tony, encouraging him to enter his information. He immediately fired off a quick text and heard Tony’s phone ping in his pocket.

“This might be too much too soon,” Peter started, “but I bought a train ticket to New York City at the end of next month. I just wanted us to have tentative plans to see each other, but I can always change it,” he rushed out.

Tony stopped walking, using his grip on Peter’s hand to pull him in close. He pressed a tender kiss to Peter’s lips, lingering for just a moment before pulling back.

“I guess now’s a good time to tell you that I bought a train ticket to Boston in two weeks,” Tony admitted sheepishly. “I couldn’t bear the thought of not knowing when I’d get to see you next and I got a little eager”.

Peter was speechless and blown away by Tony. He fisted one hand in Tony’s shirt, the other in his curls as he pressed his forehead against Tony’s own. “Tony,” he breathed.

“I’m not letting you get away, Pete,” Tony murmured softly.

“Right back at you, Golden Boy”.

#starker #ironspider #starker fic #starker au #tony stark x peter parker #peter x tony #mine

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afictionaladventure16 · 5 years ago

Note

I love your writing! Can I request a fic where the reader is Bruce’s teen daughter who is like a mini version of him, that he didn’t know about and he’s scared to be a father so he pushes her away and she thinks that he hates her and so Tony talks to Bruce to convince him that he won’t hurt her and then Bruce and his daughter talk and become really close. Thank you!

I’m A Man of Three Fears (Bruce Banner x Daughter!Reader)

Bruce Banner Masterlist

Avengers Masterlist

Warnings: mentions of being ignored by a parent.

Word Count: 2,035

A/N: Sorry this took so long! Hope you enjoy the fic!

It had only been a month since you’ve met your father. The man that you had assumed was dead was very much alive. He’s the only family you had left, and it’s as if he was trying his best to avoid you.

You tried to give him the benefit of the doubt. You were sure that he must have been in shock after finding out that he had a daughter that he didn’t know of, so, you gave it a day.

One day turned into two days.

Then three.

Then a week.

And then a month.

A month. A whole month and your father just acted like you weren’t there, like you didn’t exist. Of course, everyone else acknowledged you, treated you as if you were part of the Avengers family, but the one person you really wanted to get close with, avoided you like the plague.

“Ah, well if it isn’t little Banner.” You turned around to see Tony walking towards you. “Just for reference, who let you in the lab?”

“Myself,” you mumbled as you continued to read some of your dad's work.

Tony hummed in response. He glanced towards the papers you were reading. “Those are some of your dad's essays.” You nod. “What do you think about your old man?”

You shrugged. “The only thing I know about him is what I read from these essays and papers he’s written, so, I think he’s an amazing physicist.”

Tony gave you a small nod. He hated to see someone that he considered to be his best friend, treat their child like they didn’t exist. He knew what it felt like to be that child.

“Although,” you grabbed one of the papers in front of you, “his equations are a bit sloppy.”

Tony chuckled at your comment; he looked over the paper and agreed with you. “Good eye,” he commented. He grabbed a pencil and tried to hand it to you. You gave him a confused expression.

“Well?” he questioned, still holding out the pencil.

“Well, what?” He couldn’t honestly want you to fix your father's equations, could he? That would just be crossing a boundary, but something inside you was dying to fix those equations. Maybe then your father would have some sort of emotion towards you. Maybe he’ll even acknowledge your presence.

“Fix the equations.” Tony laid the pencil on the table. “You’re just as smart as he is. You really are a mini version of him.”

You sighed, grabbing the pencil and placing the paper back onto the table. You concentrated on the equations in front of you while Tony worked on Peter’s suit. You could see so much emotion in your father's equations with the way they were written. You almost didn’t want to ruin it, so you placed your notes in the margins, careful not to mess up any of his work. Once you were done, you turned to look over at Tony. “Can I ask you something?”

“Hit me.”

“I want you to be honest with me.”

“You’re talking to one of the most honest men here.”

“Pretty sure Steve beats you at that, but I’ll let it slide,” you commented, causing an eye roll from Tony. “Does my dad… does he hate me?”

“What? No! Why would you ask such a thing?”

“Come on, Tony, how can’t I?” You jumped off the stool you were sitting on. “The man avoids me like I have some sort of infectious disease.”

“Y/N, you have to understand-”

“Understand what? That he doesn’t want to be a father?” You felt tears form in your eyes. “He’s the only family I have left and it fucking hurts that he just… that he just treats me like I’m not even here.” Tony pulled you into a hug, placing a kiss on top of your head as you let out a soft sob. You felt so hurt by your father; it was something that everyone saw, but no one mentioned. Tony knew that this couldn’t go on any longer. Something had to be done.

“I know how you feel, kid,” Tony began to say. He let out a sigh, “Look, I can’t promise anything, but I’ll talk to him, Y/N.”

“Thank you,” you said softly as you embraced Tony once more.

“Why don’t you go and do your homework; I know you’re smart and all, but you have to have some homework to do.” You chuckled, giving him a small nod. “Don’t forget that dinner is free for all tonight,” Tony called out as you walked out of the lab.

Hours later, Tony was still in the lab working on some upgrades for Peter’s suit, but his mind kept wandering to the situation with Bruce and Y/N. He wanted to help his best friend out because Bruce was unknowingly hurting his daughter every day he didn’t speak to her.

“Not surprised that you're here.” Tony turned around to see Bruce walking towards him. Bruce fixed his lab coat as he approached the table. “Was kind of hoping to have the lab to myself today,” Bruce mumbled.

Tony raised his eyebrows in a questioning manner before brushing it off. “I need to finish these upgrades on Peters's suit which won’t take long and then I’ll be out of your hair,” he stated.

Bruce just gave Tony a nod before grabbing his papers that he had left on the table. “I glanced at your equations,” Tony began to say. “They’re a bit sloppy.”

“What?”

“Y/N actually caught the mistakes… she’s a bright girl, like her dad.” Bruce remained silent and glanced at the papers that he was holding. The writings in the margins. Your writings. Bruce felt like it was the closest he’s ever been to you. So close, yet so far away. “You know, pushing her away isn’t going to make the fact that she’s your kid just disappear; it’s only going to hurt her more, and frankly, I think she’s been through enough.”

Bruce continued to read your notes. The smiley faces you drew at the end of your sentences. The arrows directing him to where you think the equation should be fixed. He noticed it was all in a way to not step on his boundaries, but if you only knew that he loved this. His heart was full of glee to see how much you took after him. It was all out of good-nature, something that he felt wasn’t him. He wondered where you got all of this from: the kind heart and patience.

“She has been through enough,” Bruce finally spoke up. “She doesn’t need me.”

“You’re wrong.” Tony watched as Bruce laid the papers back onto the table, his eyes never leaving them. “She needs her dad. Why won’t you give her that?”

"This kid just shows up out of nowhere and claims to be my biological child, and I'm just this guy that goes big and green every time I feel anxious or angry and having a kid is just a big ball of that. So, tell me, Tony, what the hell am I supposed to do?”

Tony shrugs, “Step up.” He sighs, “It’s the only thing to do.”

“It’s not that easy.”

“It is; dammit, Bruce.” Bruce looked up at Tony. “There’s a girl in this compound that wonders why her father hates her, why he’s pushing her away, and she comes to this lab in hopes to find anything that she can just to feel close to him! You have the chance to make things right before it’s too late! Trust me. I wish I had the same chance as Y/N did,” Tony scolded.

He never was one to yell at Bruce but this time was different. Someone had to tell Bruce what he was doing was wrong and who better than the person who has been in Y/N’s shoes.

Bruce pondered it for a second, he had forgotten the strained relationship between Tony and his father. He had seen how much hurt it has caused Tony. Bruce slowly gave Tony a nod, “You’re right.”

“Of course I’m right,” Tony smirked. “Now, go talk to your daughter.”

Bruce took his lab coat off, placing it on the table. “Tony?” Tony hummed in response. “Thank you.”

Bruce made his way over to the elevator, “Friday, can you please tell me where Y/N is?”

“Ms. Y/N is currently in her room.”

Bruce made it to your floor, which was the same floor as his and instantly feeling even more guilty for the hurt he’s caused you. He gently knocked on the door. “Come in,” the sound of your voice just made Bruce feel nervous and guilty. Swallowing his pride, he walked in the room quickly spotting you sitting at your desk, head buried in your books.

“Y/N?” Bruce watched as you quickly turned around to face him, a surprised expression written all over your face. You blinked a couple of times, making sure you weren’t seeing things. “Can we talk?”

“Uh-s-sure,” you stuttered. Bruce made his way over to your bed to sit down. He looked around your decorated room.

“Y/C/C?” He said as he pointed towards the small banner that hung on the wall. “Is that one of the universities you want to go to?”

“Um, it’s actually my dream university.”

Bruce nods. “I’ve seen your notes; I think that you can get in with no trouble,” he mused.

You felt your cheeks go warm with embarrassment at the thought of him seeing your notes. Is that the reason why he wanted to talk? To say how horrible your notes were? “You said you wanted to talk?”

Bruce cleared his throat. “I-uh…” He let out a heavy sigh. “Look, Y/N, I am sorry for ignoring you. I really am, and I’m going to do everything within my power to prove to you that I can be an amazing dad to you.”

You nod. “Thank you for apologizing but that still doesn’t clear anything like why did you do it?”

“Because I’m afraid.” You got up from your seat and sat down on the bed next to your dad.

“Afraid of me?”

He shook his head. “No, more like being afraid of the big guy. Of what I am capable of… I’m afraid that one day the big guy is going to hurt you. I was also just so scared of ruining your life. I’ve never been one to bond with children.”

“Well, lucky for you, I’m a teenager.”

Bruce chuckled. “I’m sorry, Y/N. This is gonna be a learning process for both of us, but I’m not going to ignore you anymore. I know I’ve caused you a lot of pain already, but from here on out, it’s going to be different.”

You felt tears begin to form, and you wrapped your arms around your dad. Bruce smiled and wrapped his arms around you. You both stayed in that position for a few minutes before you let go. “So, you saw my notes?”

Bruce’s smile grew. “I did! I have to say, I think you’re smarter than I am. I can’t believe I missed those little mistakes.”

“You think I can join you in the lab one day?”

“Of course! As a matter of fact, I was in the process of kicking Tony out of the lab before I came over here.” You joined your dad back in the lab, and Tony smiled as he saw you both walk in through the door.

“Well, if it isn’t mini Bruce and regular-size Bruce,” Tony commented.

Bruce rolled his eyes, “Are you done with those upgrades yet? I want to spend some time in the lab with my daughter.”

Tony smiled. “Yeah, I’m done.” Tony knew he wasn’t even close to being finished with the upgrades, but he did know that the upgrades could wait. You and Bruce needed to spend some long-awaited quality time, and as much as Tony wanted to stay and watch, he quickly left the room to give you both some space. All that matters to Tony was that he didn’t have to see you go through the same thing he had.

Permanent Taglist: @unapologeticallymimi @glitterquadricorn @lady-of-lies @cassmoreiraxo @just4muggles @mellorine-paprika @agirlruinedbybands @yougottalovefandoms @avngrsinitiative @lizlil @otomefan @dejaazaro @culturebay @kpopishilarious @fireproof-heaven @iloveyouthreethousand-o6 @weappreciatepower @whereyoustand @white-wolf-buckaroo @spider-woman22 @coffee-habit @supernaturallover2002 @barnes-parker @therealmrshale @myinternetissoslow @myhippiehopes @celyndavies @xzowiex @ximaginx @wooshytooshy @ellaorelizabeth @rororo06 @chloe-geoghegan1 @hdthdthdt @sophie-barnes26 @thamuddagirl @scarletmeii @ssebstann @fangirl31415 @thepeggyann @lauren-novak @reerrrrskillz

Bruce Banner Taglist (OPEN):

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Avengers Taglist (OPEN): @firstangeldragonranch

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omgrachwrites · 5 years ago

Text

Schooled (Bucky Barnes)

Pairing: Bucky Barnes/OC

Summary: After the passing of Ava’s father she starts acting out which drives her right into the arms of one gorgeous Professor Barnes.

Warnings: fluff, lil bit of angst, mentions of sex

Words: 2140

A/N: Hope you guys enjoy this part and please let me know what you think and if you would like to be tagged! I love you all! xxx

Part Three - The Lecture

All morning the girls were trying to get the scoop on what had happened between Ava and Bucky because MJ and Wanda had woke up in the early hours of the morning and there had been no sign of Ava. All three of them had snuck out of the boy’s room before they got up and got a taxi back to their own hotel so they could actually start packing for their flight home that afternoon – they even left the hotel room without breakfast.

Ava thought that she’d feel bad for leaving without even writing Bucky a note or something like that, she had never been a love them and leave them kind of girl. She didn’t feel bad though, soon Bucky would be a distant memory and there would be no lasting reminder of the night of passion that she’d shared with a beautiful stranger.

“So, what did happen between you and Bucky?” Wanda asked as Ava was struggling to gather all of her makeup collection together. Ava giggled and raised an eyebrow at MJ who was standing behind Wanda, fiddling with her fingers.

“Guys,” Ava laughed as she found her lipstick in the shower, not knowing how it ended up there, “is this an interrogation or something?”

“It’s just that we woke up around 5am and you weren’t asleep on the sofa bed with us, we were worried,” MJ added.

Ava sighed as she threw her cosmetic bag into her suitcase and turned back around to face her friends, her arms folded over her chest, “look, we watched TV and cuddled,” she couldn’t really explain why she wasn’t telling her two best friends the truth about what went down.

“You cuddled?” MJ repeated as she and Wanda looked at each other uncertainly and Ava threw up her arms in frustration.

“Yes, we cuddled, you know it’s when two people vertically hug or snuggle whilst they’re in bed together,” she smiled as Wanda rolled her eyes.

“Okay, okay smartass. Let’s go and get some lunch,” Wanda laughed and they left their hotel and walked into town.

They found a tavern in the old part of the village, right by the bay which looked beautiful in the early afternoon; New York seemed so grey in comparison. Ava didn’t eat anything too heavy as she was feeling very hungover and she didn’t want to be sick on the plane. Ava felt a little paranoid, she was constantly looking around in case Bucky turned up, and she would rather avoid an awkward conversation.

MJ however, noticed that Ava kept on looking around and clearly she got the wrong end of the stick, “look we know what hotel and room that the boys are staying in if you want to go back and give Bucky your number. We’re right behind you,” Wanda hesitated before nodding in agreement.

Ava smiled as she twirled her face in her Greek salad, extremely happy that her friends were always looking out for her, “it’s not about that, really I’m fine. Thank you though.”

As the girls boarded the plane it truly felt that their holiday was over, summer was almost over and Ava thought that she’d better start her work for her literature class. She had to choose a novel or a play from the syllabus and write an essay on it, choosing her own question; she had chosen Jekyll and Hyde which happened to be one of her favourite books. Shakespeare was on the list unfortunately, she liked Shakespeare but she just couldn’t understand the language that was used which would make it hard to write a decent piece on it. In high school she was able to bullshit an essay on Shakespeare but she had a feeling that it wouldn’t cut it in university, she supposed that she’d have to find somebody that would help her.

Chewing her lip, she looked at her friends and she felt bad, she figured that they deserved to know what really went down between her and Bucky. She thought that there was just no point in keeping it a secret anymore considering that she’d never see Bucky ever again.

“Hey guys,” she started and the girls looked up at her, MJ looked slightly annoyed as she took the headphones out of her ears, “I’ve got a confession to make. Bucky and I had sex,” she sighed, waiting for their reaction which was slightly delayed as they took in Ava’s words. They both gasped, MJ looked excited while Wanda narrowed her eyes.

“You had sex with someone that you don’t even know?” she had a mixture of emotions on her face but she mostly looked worried, she was definitely the mom friend, “why didn’t you tell us?”

“Well, for one I knew that you’d react like that,” Ava grinned as she nudged her shoulder against Wanda’s, “and two. I don’t really know why I didn’t say anything, I felt like I had to keep it a secret for some reason,” she shrugged, “but that’s stupid I guess.”

“No, it’s not,” MJ spoke softly, her eyes soft and sympathetic, “are you going to miss him?”

Ava thought about it for a second, “I’ll miss his face that’s for sure, and he was pretty good in bed,” she smirked, “but I didn’t know enough about him to miss him as a person.”

“That’s probably a good thing then,” Wanda shook her head and went back to her book.

“Yeah, I guess so.”

Ava sighed as she looked at the apartment building that NYU had to offer, to be fair from the outside it looked nicer than the ones in California. The same couldn’t be said for the weather, it had been raining pretty much since Ava had arrived back from Greece. She wanted nothing more than to be back beneath that warm sun. She looked at Pepper who was chewing her lip and blinking rapidly while Morgan was sniffling in the backseat.

“Thanks for giving me a ride Pepper,” she smiled and leaned over to give Pepper a hug and reached behind her to give Morgan one too, “I’ll see you guys real soon, okay?”

Pepper nodded, “we need a tradition while you’re here. How about you come over for dinner on Sunday?”

Ava smiled and nodded, “sounds good, I’ll see you guys then,” she grinned and got out of the car, she was feeling nervous now, especially about meeting her roommate. Taking a deep breath Ava pushed open the door to the administration office so she could get the key to her room.

“Hey girl! I’ve been so excited for you to get here!” Rebecca, Ava’s friend grinned from where she was sitting behind the desk, she took a sip of coffee and Ava vaguely wondered if there was any alcohol in it. She had always been bringing a flask to school with her when they were both in their senior year.

“Your roommate is here and oh my god! He is so gorgeous; his accent is to die for!”

“Well, I can’t wait to meet him,” Ava beamed as Rebecca passed her the room key over.

“Do your classes start today?” Rebecca asked and Ava nodded, checking the time on her watch.

“Yeah, in about thirty minutes, I left the whole moving in thing till the last minute. I didn’t want to leave Pepper and Morgan till the very last second.”

“Oh sweetie, I’m so sorry about your dad,” Rebecca sighed.

“Thanks,” she smiled, fiddling with her room key, “I best go and meet my roommate.”

Rebecca squealed excitedly, “eek! Okay! I am so excited for you to meet him, like I’ve already said it a million times,” she giggled, “if you ever need a wing woman then I’m available,” she winked and Ava rolled her eyes at her playfully.

“I’ll keep that in mind,” she smiled and walked up the three flights of stairs to her mini apartment.

On her way up to her room she saw that she wasn’t the only one who was moving in at the last minute, she walked past a lot of open doors as people tried to shift a ridiculous amount of stuff into their room. From being nosey she noticed that the rooms looked pretty okay it had a tiny living room area, a shared bathroom, a little kitchen area and then of course it had the bedrooms in the back. It was incredibly basic but Ava figured that it didn’t matter; she was only here for one year.

As she walked into her mini apartment she saw that there was no one to be seen.

“Hello?” she called out and someone walked out of a bedroom and it almost felt like time stopped moving.

Rebecca had been right; this guy had the face of an angel. He had eyes that were such a light blue that they should have looked cold but somehow they were very warm and soft. To top it all off, he had the curliest blonde hair, it was just to die for – he was to die for.

“Hi, I’m Loki, it’s a pleasure to meet you,” he beamed as he held out his hand, he was so soft spoken that Ava wished that every boy talked like that.

“I’m Ava, it’s great to meet you too,” she giggled as she shook his hand, if she believed in love at first sight then this would be it.

———————————————-

Bucky was about ten minutes into his first lecture at NYU- he had been really nervous at first but he soon got into it and he knew that this was exactly what he wanted to do. He was very happy that everyone seemed to be listening to him; one of his biggest fears was that if no one listened to him. In fact, there was a group of girls sitting right on the front row and they seemed to be hanging onto his every word. Though, there was one student that was half listening, he kept on glancing at the door every couple of minutes and it was really starting to throw Bucky off.

“Mr Odinson,” he started and Loki looked at him, looking a little guilty, “can you tell me why you’re not giving me all of your attention right now?”

“Err,” he stuttered, “well you see sir, my roo-“he was cut off as the door slammed open, making everybody jump.

“Oh my god! I’m so sorry that I’m late, I completely lost track of-“she trailed off as she looked at Bucky with wide eyes and she was looking very confused.

Bucky felt pretty much the same, considering that it was Ava – the girl that he’d had sex with in Greece. Somebody cleared their throat which brought Bucky back down to earth, remembering that he was in a full lecture hall.

“You must be Ava Stark?” he asked, pretending he didn’t know, dumbfounded she nodded.

“Please find a seat and take out your book list,” Ava chewed her lip and managed to find an empty seat next to Loki.

Bucky carried on with his lecture, kind of distracted as he looked at the pretty girl, he couldn’t believe how unlucky he was to have her as a student. He kept on getting flashbacks to their night together and he remembered just how beautiful she had looked and sounded. Bucky ended up getting so distracted that he ended the lecture about five minutes early.

“Ava, I need a word with you about what you missed in the first ten minutes,” he called to her as she was about to leave the hall. She sighed and turned back around, walking to his desk, he was already writing what she’d missed on a sheet of paper refusing to look at her, “here you go,” he said as he pushed the paper at her.

“Bucky,” she sighed sadly, “are we just going to pretend that we don’t know each other? No one else is here,” she cupped his stubbled jaw.

“You told me that you were an English graduate, I can’t believe you lied to me. Why didn’t you just tell me that you were in your last year of college?” if truth be told he didn’t really care that much but he was still feeling salty about how she left without leaving a note or even her number.

“I don’t know but I’m sorry.”

Bucky sighed and took her hand off of his jaw, “what happened between us in Greece is never going to happen again. I can’t be your lover, or your friend, I can only be your Professor, nothing more.”

“Fine, I understand. One time thing, it won’t happen again,” she rolled her eyes as she turned to leave.

“Ava?” he asked and she didn’t turn around or answer but she did stop, “do make sure that you’re on time tomorrow.”

———————————————-

< previous part next part >

@void-imaginations @theonelittleone @mikariell95 @leclerc-stan @thejemersoninferno @allthingswildareshy @charles11700 @writingkeepsmewhole @lovely-geek @white-wolf-buckaroo @goodolbucky

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studentville-struggles · 5 years ago

Text

For the Love of Cars // Lando Norris

So I’ve been struggling with A Double Life // part 3 because of #writersblock so in the last 2 hours threw this trash together so I could just write something. Anyone else?

Pairing: Lando Norris x reader

Words: 2093

Proofread? It’s barely written let alone proofread. It might not even be coherent.

Masterlist

Summary: A girls holiday Grand Prix trip leads to a series of incredible friendships, but could there be more?

Girls trips are the stuff of movies. Dutch braids, glitter, bottles of Prosecco and wine made days of sightseeing and sunbathing hilarious story-filled memories. These three girls had been your confidants and party partners since you arrived at university two years ago. This mini-break was your final getaway before you all headed back for your final year, a last hurrah of the summer.

You’d gone shopping, sunbathing, done a wine tour and even hired a little sailboat for a day, something for each of you as well as the things for all of you. Today was your day, the day you got to pick something to do. You were all nerds in your own way and they’d just have to get on your level now.

It wasn’t all bad the girls decided, there was an element of getting ready, finding that perfect outfit. The girls could cope with outfit critiquing and celeb spotting as you wandered around fangirling at everything little thing you could. You loved cars, always had. You had a little banger you worked on when you were 16, not that you’d have been able to drive it even if you could fix it. The only thing was, you’d never managed to get tickets for a Grand Prix before, so when the opportunity arose for this holiday, you had to.

You were just wandering around various exhibits and chatting about the cars and what you were looking forward to – the girls didn’t really watch formula 1 or care about the cars but were gracious enough to listen along to your ramblings – when another girl, she looked to be in similar age to you, started joining in with some of your chat when you were looking at an exhibit.

“This is really random” she began, following on from your chit chat about engine providers, “but you wouldn’t happen to be at a lot of these would you?”

“Grand Prix? No this is my first, never managed to get tickets before.”

“No fair, it’s always fun to mix cars and girl talk. I don’t usually get that.”

“Oh no, how come?”

“I come with my boyfriends family, it’s alright when his mum or sister is here but sometimes it’s a little male if you get what I mean?”

“Oh no I’m with you 100%, I’m usually the same.”

Dilara and yourself exchanged numbers, with you suddenly realising why she travelled to a lot of Grand Prix with her boyfriends family. Given she was the girlfriend of one of the best drivers on the grid. You had promised to keep in touch and message if you were early to the track tomorrow.

Your friends always joked that you could make friends anywhere given half a chance but it appeared to be true this time. Dilara became a good friend very quickly, having found you had a very similar sense of humour and managed to keep in touch with her after the Grand Prix. Some of your messages to each other were hilarious, and it turned out that she loved a fair few of the go memes that had properly tickled you as well.

Noticing the random laughs at texts, Max had apparently gotten a little jealous and had asked who she’s been laughing at. After explaining your bizarre meeting and how you had been keeping in touch, Dilara started telling Max about you, the jokes and memes she’d passed on. Then an idea formed.

“Do you know who she reminds me of?”

“Yes and I’m already trying to plan so don’t do anything stupid.”

——

Only a few weeks later and you had some VIP paddock passes arriving in the post. You were informed, not asked or invited, that you were going to the next Grand Prix with Dilara and Max, ‘Lara apparently deciding she needed more female company and you needed more time with the cars.

“Oh wow look at this we’re bumping into drivers so randomly, hi Lando how are you?” You raised your eyebrows at her but introduced yourself to the McLaren driver.

Lando became someone very important very quickly. You were both total fangirls over motorsport, and total nerds in your ‘thing’. The fact you could sit and chat and never feel bad for getting too excited about a project, or his races, new setups they were trying, was refreshing. You loved the girls, you loved your time with Dilara, but the friendship with Lando was, in a way, different.

Whenever you quizzed Dilara on her weird introduction of Lando, she would merely shrug say that she was weird and that she knew how well you’d get on.

It wasn’t long before you found yourself spending more and more time at his house. You’d sit in the next room as he played on twitch, finalising papers and essays and cover letters for Masters programmes. Once you were ready you’d have him proofread them. It didn’t matter that he barely understood the topic of your essay, in fact, it made him better at proofreading, always highlighting the bits he thought didn’t make sense. You would usually wait until he finished on twitch, not that you had to wait long given the time you would spend working.

Tonight, however, Lando knew you didn’t have much to do, merely formatting. So 20 minutes into his twitch stream, he shouted for you, earning a ‘Jesus Christ’ from Max who had to deal with that through a microphone.. Sticking your head around the corner, Lando was asking if you were done and if he could read your paper yet.

“Yeah, I was just waiting till you finished streaming.”

“Nah I’m only racing Max, you take over and I can read.”

“Hey!” Max chimed in, indignantly.

You handed a print out of your paper to Lando and pulled on the headset. Comments came in on Lando's stream almost immediately asking who you were and if you were Lando's girlfriend. Unfortunately, your familiarity with Max only added to the dating comments and they couldn’t quite work out how else you could know both of them.

That twitch experience was the first of many. It became a fairly frequent occurrence, you taking over and driving for Lando as he read your work, you chatting to Max and generally bantering about. Once or twice Dilara was with Max and managed to steal the headset allowing the two of you to chat holidays and mini-break ideas, something that was never shown on media other than that. The fans were obsessed with your friendship, and also obsessed with the idea of you and Lando together.

You never brought up their speculation, you couldn’t without admitting how much you had come to care for Lando and how much his approval on the little things meant to you. Every time he let you on his twitch streams, your heart would flutter. Every time he would take you along to a Grand Prix, you had a little celebration, feeling like he might just care like you did.

But he never said anything, he never did anything other than what friends could do. You tried dropping hints, you made him dinner more often than not at one point, always brought him a cuppa when you had him proofread your work. Nothing. You were starting to think your friends were right when they said that boys were oblivious to everything. That or he was ignoring your little hints in the hope you’d give up. He was a formula one driver after all; he could have any girl he wanted, why would he settle for little old you, student, nerd, nothing special. You weren’t a model or a driver or anyone really.

You very rarely spoke about boys with Dilara beyond the old “oh he’s cute” when you went shopping and the two of you “window shopped” boys. You’d try and pick out each other’s type. Though you always joked there was no one for you to pick for her, claiming “sorry no Dutch f1 drivers here” much to her dismay. She’s once asked about you and Lando, at which point you’d already given up on him and didn’t want her to feel bad for you, leaving you responding about how close your friendship was.

What you didn’t know, however, was that you weren’t the only one waiting for the two of you to make a move on the other.

“They aren’t making any moves, why aren’t they doing something??”

“Friends is great, but not what we were aiming for.”

That conversation was put on hold as Lando's call ID appeared on Max’s phone.

“I screwed up and I need a friend to tell me to get over myself.”

“What? What’s happened.”

“I may or may not have realised I fancy the actual pants off of Y/N”

“She’s great, I can see why you like her.” Dilara was leaning in to try and hear what was being said. “I’m not seeing why that means you screwed up?”

“She’s going on a date.”

“She’s what?”

“Going on a date, someone set her up on a blind date and she’s going. I didn’t realise how I felt about her till a date was mentioned and then I felt hard done on by the fact she’s going on it. Like why would she just be sitting around for me?”

Dilara was scribbling little notes out,

“Mate I’m so sorry. You can’t blame yourself though and it’s only one date, it’s not the end of the world.”

“I just never realised how much I took her being around for granted. I just got used to her being here, having dinner with her, her stealing my McLaren jumpers when we’re at a race because they’re the softest there and her cheering for me. Like, fuck me when did I get so stuck up and dumb.”

“Can’t comment on the dumb but girls will do that to you man.” Dilara elbowed him for that comment.

In an attempt to distract Lando from his little feelings meltdown on the phone, Max had suggested an impromptu twitch stream, knowing Lando would shut off a bit if he was driving and that he’d put on a bit of a show for people. However not even 20 minutes later Oliver had popped his head into the room to get his attention.

“What Oliver?”

“Door went”

“Did you get it?”

You knew something was wrong by the tone of his voice, Lando was upset and a little angry at being disturbed. Or so you thought. You didn’t want to be more of a pain, you had just turned up without an invitation.

“Maybe I should come back another time..” you squeaked out. Tears still drying on your face, voice cracking from the crying you’d done in the taxi on the way over.

You might have been quiet but Lando heard you. He practically launched himself out of his sim, repeatedly muttering “no”, his heartbreaking at the weakness in your voice.

Not much could be seen from the setup Lando had from his twitch stream but they could see him rush towards you, dressed in a red cowl necked dress. You looked stunning, more beautiful than Lando could process given the hurt he saw.

“I'm here, it’s okay, you’re okay” Lando was comforting you, the words barely audible through his mic, having shoved it off his head and round his neck. He had no idea what had happened but given you were here and not on your date, tear marks clear on your face, he could tell it wasn’t good.

“Cmon let’s get you in some comfy stuff, can’t have you looking like a Ferrari fan now can we?” The small joke hit the mark, bringing a smile to your face.

“You’re right, got any Red Bull merch?”

“Wow, right in the heart.”

The twitch stream was long forgotten, Oliver apparently ruining Lando's score and pushing all of Max’s buttons. Lando had you in some sweatpants and somehow magicked up an extra-large McLaren jumper, knowing you love the extra snuggle of a huge jumper. His team might’ve looked at him weirdly when he asked for one but seeing you wrapped up in his team apparel made him realise he’d do anything to make you happy and comfortable. He couldn’t fathom how it had taken him this long to realise how he felt. No wonder people teased him for getting extra team kit so she could steal it.

Now he only had to figure out a way to tell you all this.

#studentville-struggles #rachel tries to write #f1 fic #f1 imagines #f1 fanfic #f1 oneshots #lando norris fic #lando norris one shot #lando norris oneshot #lando norris fanfic #lando norris imagine #max verstappen imagine #max verstappen oneshot #speed writing #writers block

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izzy-b-hands · 5 years ago

Text

I Hear My Heart Breaking Tonight

Going off of my earlier lil mini essay thing on that question about a character I like writing for, I wrote this for/about Eggsy.

It’s kinda messy, but I wanted it to be very...mental flow, like being in his head as much as possible, if that makes sense. Hopefully I achieved that!

Title is a lyric from Pink In The Night by Mitski.

My love to all who read/like/reblog!

He doesn’t tell Tilde he’s going back for a bit; he doesn’t really have to. She knows the job, and doesn’t question if he’s just gone for a day or two. He always checks back in with her, to give her an update, let her know that he’s safe.

But Kingsman hasn’t called him back to England. No one has, in fact.

No one living, at least.

And he can’t really blame it on his dad, or Merlin, or Roxy, or even sweet JB. They couldn’t actually call him back there, of course. It’s just where they all sit, all the losses stacking up, balanced ever so carefully so he doesn’t think of them at an inconvenient time.

But they always topple when he least expects it, is least ready to deal with it, and there’s no easy way to stack them up again.

Walking helps, though he couldn’t say exactly why. He doesn’t have a destination, doesn’t stop for more than a moment or two here and there, and that it always seems to rain weirdly makes it even better.

He can feel the tears sitting at the edge of his eyes, but can’t get them to fall no matter how hard he tries or how alone he is, so the rain is close enough.

He could call someone. He could tell Tilde. He could call Harry. He technically could call his mum, though they talk only briefly nowadays. Mostly updates on Daisy, and to speak to her and see how she was.

But the last time he’d tried, speaking to Tilde about it all, she’d listened but...

It just hadn’t worked. She’d offered kind platitudes, and apologized for him losing who he had, and said it wasn’t fair, and he appreciated it all, and that she sat and let him talk. But she seemed distracted for most of it, bothered, uncomfortable, and he didn’t want to make her feel like that, or Harry, or his mum.

The sidewalk doesn’t give a shit though, and the streets are either quiet and busy inside or loud and thrumming with people he has to weave around, either way with no time for him and the thoughts making his head hurt with how fast they whip around inside.

He makes a tour for himself: first to the Kingsman shop, to stop there and talk to Merlin and Roxy. Late at night, there’s usually no one around, and no one to question his standing there silent, the words all spilling out in his head.

“I’m sorry for what happened. I’ll never stop being sorry, either. It isn’t the same without you two, and I know what Harry says and what you guys would say-we carry on, make sure the world is safe, and then we mourn. Well, I did that, and I’ve mourned, and I don’t think I can stop it now, because it never gets any easier. You should still be here, both of you. Missions aren’t the same, and they never will be again. And it’ll never stop bothering me, always the first thought when I’m told there’s somewhere to go, someone or something to save. You were a safety net for me, and I should have been the same for you, somehow.”

It isn’t a great apology, but then again, the best one would be if he could bring them back.

And as he walks on, all he can think about is how he can’t.

JB he talks to on the way back to his Mum’s old flat.

JB is easier, and yet not, somehow. He can tell him in his head what a good dog he was, how much he was loved, how sorry he is, but JB would never have understood it all fully, or why he died. And that hurts just as much as JB being gone, because if JB had any last thoughts, it would have been that he was hurt, and he didn’t know what he had done to deserve it, and wasn’t he a good dog? He tried so hard to be a good dog, so why did he have to hurt?

He hopes, prays (to who? he isn’t sure), that JB died quickly, with no time for pain or thoughts like that.

The apartment he always gets close, can almost feel the tears falling, but something holds them back as he asks his dad everything he can think of.

“Did you really plan for it to be like that, knowing you might die like that? For Mum to feel so alone, and unsure? Of course, she could have reached out to Kingsman like Harry said, but she was grieving, not thinking rationally. Surely you had to know that might be how she’d react. Or did you never even think of it, never even consider what it might be like after you were gone? Nobody wants to think of their own death, but I’ve got an idea, if I go doing something for Kingsman. Tilde will be taken care of, not just financially or whatever, not that we were really anyway. But emotionally, to make sure she doesn’t fall to pieces when I’m gone. And Mum. For her, that’s the least I can do, since you apparently didn’t.”

The anger tastes bitter in his mouth as he walks away again, and he almost regrets it, because it isn’t pure anger, he knows that. It’s tinged in his own grief for the father he can’t really remember, not in a way he can cling to when he needs it. And it isn’t fair to his father, or to him. Not healthy to hang onto like that.

But then none of this is.

He’ll ponder it as he finds a hotel room for the night, calls Tilde once he’s in the room to let her know he’ll be home in another day or two, and how is she? What did she do today? He’d love to hear it, and he hopes it was a good day.

Then it’ll be just him and his thoughts of how he ought to think about getting a therapist maybe, instead of just hoping one of these night long run away and walks will somehow cure him when the hurt gets so sharp it feels it might slice him to ribbons, leaving him breathless and sobbing in a hotel room that he pays too much for just so he doesn’t have to go home right away and risk Tilde or anyone else seeing the ice of his lake finally break.

In the later morning, the lake has frozen over again, and he washes his face with cold water before checking out to get on a plane and go home.

Everything stacked and orderly again, stiff upper lip.

And no one is ever the wiser, and he can be there for them, smiling and helpful and caring and loving, just like they need.

#text post #LeeH writes #Kingsman fic

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corneliahall · 5 years ago

Quote

My dreams that night were more than enough to scare me. After sharing a silent, awkward dinner with my mother, I went straight to bed and let Cameron's silky fur comfort me through the disturbing images my brain was processing. Memories of my childhood oddities and, of course, the generated ones that I might encounter in the future. I woke up to the sound of my phone's alarm, reminding me that everything else around me was normal. Everything beyond my house did not change at all. I got up, showered, and did all the mundane things my body required. It felt weird to stare at the mirror after the strange talk with my teacher and Mr. Ryder last night. Still, my choppy, curly red hair was normal. My blue eyes were still normal. My skin, although rimmed with darkness around the eyes from last night's lack of sleep, was more or less normal with its impertinent pinkish glow and the rust-colored freckles. Goth ginger. Giselle the Goth ginger is what they called me because of my wardrobe consisting of dark-colored clothes. Mostly deep blues, purples, violets and tinges of neon. Purists at my school would argue I was not a proper one since I don't exactly follow the entire lifestyle. In truth, dark colors just make me feel safer. You would never guess my favorite color is white. My mom went out early due to the store's start-of-season sale. Her mini beauty store, the pompously-named Margaret's Beauty Choice, allowed me to have my own variety of lipsticks and eyeshadow palettes. We are both make-up junkies. While she used to do make-up for small-time models in New York, my earliest experience was putting on a Ruby Woo lipstick on my eight-year-old lips. I caught up to the school bus just right on time and decided to sit further back than usual. Alyssa's pretty face was still healing when I heard about it yesterday and she might appear today in school to get some counseling. Hah. Like she would ever listen to anyone. Just then I noticed something out of the ordinary. Someone. Normally, Lilly Saint-Louis was the one who took this seat of the school bus. Lilly was not there; a new kid was. I've studied at Sheffield since last year—the longest standing school since I was six and that's an achievement—and not once have I seen the guy. He looked like he was brooding over something, with his eyebrows knitted over his dark eyes. He was obviously of Asian descent; his eyes were single-lidded slanting towards the inner corners. He had black hair trimmed like those I read in Japanese comics. He was handsome but I would not give him the chance to see me acknowledging such a fact. My eyebrow arched up almost automatically but I just sat next to him. He acknowledged my presence once and went back to staring at the world outside the school bus. "So... new kid?" I could not help it. I wouldn't want an awkward start if he were a new student. He did not answer me and just looked at his phone while he was shuffling to find something in his pocket. Thankfully it was not a knife but a pair of earpods. I would have to praise him later for not misplacing that. "Nah. Just a stowaway. I snuck inside here last night. Typical rendezvous from the world, don't you think?" His accent was still evident. Though he must have been some kind of a rich kid since he knew big words that no normal American teen would use, unless in an essay. It was hard to tell if he was joking but from his deadpan face, he seemed pretty serious. "How did you get past the bus camera?" I was completely mystified. Sheffield had the best bus cameras in Minneapolis. Heck, I could not even sneak back inside to get my bag whenever I forgot it. He shuffled in his bag again to show me a dislocated pair of vehicle cameras. "I took it out. It's pretty easy to do if you have god-given talent as I have," he flashed his pearly whites briefly and then reverted to his brooding face. "We're going to Sheffield, right? Is it cool? You do know your school buses ain't parked in your own lot at night, right?" He must have snuck inside the school lot downtown. I shrugged. "Yeah, it's one of the weird things I do not understand at Sheffield but... I think it makes sense since we are a small school." Pfft. Wow. We. As if I was ever genuinely a part of this school. "What about life in Minnesota?" "Great. If you mean great as dead, boring winter nights. Plus, nothing is really that good here. We just have cool frozen lakes." He sighed and scratched his head, "New York and Cali never gave me a break so I guess I'd love a quiet place," he murmured and bent backward to stretch, the thinness of his lanky frame showing slightly. Underneath, he was wearing an orange shirt with weird markings too good for my poor reading skills. "New York, huh? Ever heard of a camp?" He frowned. "Camp? There are tons of camps in New York. Camp Crystal Lake. Yeah, Crystal Lake is a thing. Camp Eisenhower. Lazo Jersey Camp. A whole lot of camping sites upstate. Well, I was not really from New York but I camped a lot for some time. Pretty cool for hiking and canoeing, too." Hiking and canoeing seemed way better than staying at Walmart as a cashier. "Oh, if those things were boring, you might have been looking for more difficult challenges, huh?" "I'm looking for a quiet life. Away from the go—Goths. I mean, Goths." "Goths?" I almost snorted a laugh. "You don't look like a Goth to me, Miss Ginger." He looked at me up and down before he went back to staring at the crumpled love letter lodged in between our seats. Not one of us read it. I shuffled my ankles. "I am Giselle, by the way. Giselle Blair." "Too much information, Giselle. Can I call you Gee?" "That's a no." Though Mom does call me Gee sometimes. "You sound like the late Simon Cowell, bless his soul." I did not know who Simon was but it turned the light chat into a long, awkward silence. "Haruto," he said as the bus took a turn from the intersection. "What?" He looked around as if he was being watched before carefully placing his lips next to my ear. "Call me Haru. My name is... Haruto." A blush rose to my cheeks. "You know you could just tell me your name without getting too close, right?" Haruto chuckled. "Don't be such a priss. I don't like ginger girls anyway. I was just being—ahh... never mind me." He began to look again at the scenery outside. We were almost at Sheffield but this time, something strange happened. The moment we entered the tunnel leading to the school gates, the bus began to act up, as if it was being pulled in all directions. Dark liquid began to creep up our windows like anti-gravity crude oil and all of the students began to scream. Even the bus driver screamed curses at what was happening. Only Haruto seemed to know what was happening. He hissed but it was as if he knew this was going to happen. "Stupid me. They know I am here!" He growled, running towards the bus door and slamming it open. A scrawny kid knocking down pneumatic bus doors? That was fascinating... if we ignore the fact that we were not attacked by a giant shadow sludge. The bus driver tried to gather us all up at the back of the bus but I knew in me that it was wrong. Instincts drove me to the edge, letting me slash my way outside the bus. "Haruto!" I screamed around while the bus was slowly swallowed by the dark sludge. For a second I was about to be convinced Haruto was just an imaginary friend my mind created for the sake of coping from yesterday's mysteries. The shadows seemed to leave the bus alone, as they receded from the shuddering vehicle and unfortunately came at me. I knew I should have been a huge ginger slush right there at the gates of Sheffield if not for the spine-tingling explosion over me. The exploding rocks were about to shower down on me if not for Haruto, who suddenly rolled into the scene and led me out to safety. Son of Zeus! You still have not learned from your mistakes in Anaheim! A voice made from a thousand ones grittily scolded Haruto. It seemed that it was coming from the dark mass of shadows around us. Haruto just looked at the shadows with utmost distaste. "A dark shadow... attacking a school at 08:00 in the morning. Clearly, you guys are just desperate!" The swirling mass of shadows and fog seemed to solidify into a shape of a large, muscular man. Its eyes were as bright as the stars on a clear night. Though his intense stare at me made them look like headlights about to send a doe to deer heaven. Bah, you are not what I am here for. I will finish you before I get my hands on the girl! Haruto gave me a sideways glance but I was totally clueless at the moment. I was sure that maybe one of the girls in our school had summoned a shadow demon and the experiment went wrong. Now, the shadow demon wanted to seek vengeance and he probably mistook me as the one who summoned him. There were at least three people in school with red hair. Boy, was I all wrong.

Excerpt from The Night’s Call

#please read #read me #wattpad #percy jackson #percy jackson fanfic #pjo

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purplesurveys · 5 years ago

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598

Do you ever watch Spanish soap operas, even though you dont understand it? Spanish telenovelas are wildly popular in the Philippines, so they have it dubbed in Filipino when they air them here. Nobody speaks Spanish here anymore so it doesn’t make sense to show undubbed programs, or to even have Spanish channels at all.

Who was the last person to unsuspectingly make you smile? I recently put reindeer antlers and a red nose on my car so I can get into the ~Christmas spirit, and when I parked in school last Friday I overheard a little girl telling her mom, “Look mom, that car’s a horse!” Her cluelessness and innocence made me smile immediately, bless her heart.

When was the last time you used the word “lame”? Maybe last week? I use that word fairly often. I may have blurted it out while a friend was telling me stories, but I don’t necessarily remember exactly when.

Are you the type of person who head-bangs to slow songs? Hahahaha sometimes, if I’m wayyy too invested in the song.

Has anyone ever called you a “troubled” child? That’s a pretty loaded term, and as much of a little shit I was back when i was a teenager, I don’t think I ever did anything bad enough for anyone to call me that.

Do you talk bad about people behind their backs? If they had done anything to disappoint me, like be a bad groupmate, then yes. Otherwise I try not to.

Do you have anything plugged in and charging right now? Nah not anymore. My phone recently reached 100% so I took it out already.

What’s the first verse of the last song you listened to? “Boy, maybe if you cared enough I wouldn't have to care so much What happened to our trust? Now you're just given up You used to be so in love Now you don't care no more”

It’s a Beyoncé ballad back from 2011 so excuse the cheesiness.

When was the last time you stuck your tounge out at someone? I don’t do that a lot...maybe a couple of weeks ago?

Have you ever had a premonition? Always, lol.

When was the last time you washed your hair? This morning.

Do you own any Tide To-Go? I don’t think we do.

When was the last time you did groceries? My mom did some shopping this afternoon, but I stayed in the car because I didn’t feel like going out any more (we had just come from having lunch out).

When was the last time someone of the opposite sex gave you butterflies? Years ago.

What do you hear right now? Beyoncé singing 1+1 from my phone.

Close your eyes after you read the question. Who’s face comes to mind? Beyoncé I guess, because I just mentioned her.

What was the last thing you laughed about? I beat someone who was being a dick to me on Mario Kart Tour.

Do you own any grey shoes? I have white Chucks that are super worn they might as well count as gray haha, but I don’t have shoes really meant to be gray.

Do you know any gay people personally? So many. I know more gays than straights now.

What was the last thing that startled you? My aunt’s doorbell makes the loudest, most shrill fucking sound, and someone rang it yesterday when she had more guests. It doesn’t help that it sounds like a fire alarm :((

What was the last thing to make you even remotely sad? The fact that it’s Sunday today. It’s my default sad day.

Do you dance crazily to upbeat music? It depends on my mood and/or if I feel like dancing.

Wait, is crazily even a word? Indeed it is.

Anyways… Have you ever been to Universal Studios? Yes.

What is your dream car? I’ve always wanted a Mini but never got particular about models.

Have you seen “The Notebook”? I tried to watch the first 15 minutes because everyone keeps talking about how great of a romance movie it is and I wasn’t surprised to find out it’s a steaming pile of shit. Bad acting, bad dialogue, bad cinematography, bad transitions all around and everyone was so cringey.

What is your absolute favorite smell? I have lots of favorite smells but tonight, it’s curry.

If you could go back to a past time period, which would it be, and why? High school. Easily one of the best times of my life, and everything was easier back then.

What were the last lyrics you sang out loud? I was singing along to Everything I Wanted by Billie Eilish. <-- I’ve since shifted from my Beyoncé playlist to listen to this song. Anyway, part of the song goes:

“If I knew it all then, would I do it again? Would I do it again? If they knew what they said would go straight to my head What would they say instead? If I knew it all then, would I do it again? Would I do it again? If they knew what they said would go straight to my head What would they say instead?”

Are you in a two-story building right now? Close, but no. Our house has three.

When was the last time you cracked your knuckles? Two Fridays ago – I was taking my social history exam and the test had six essay questions. I sit in the front row so I cracked my knuckles multiple times throughout the exam to let my prof know I WAS TIRED

Do you think Channing Tatum is attractive? For a time I didn’t, then I did, then now I don’t again.

Do you watch reality shows? I watch snippets of several reality shows but I don’t subscribe to full episodes other than Queer Eye.

What was the last thing to piss you off? My classmates in my Newspaper Layout class being useless co-workers.

What was the last thing other than the keys and the mouse, you touched? My phone.

Do you like to speak gibberish? No.

Do you pick at your cuticles? Never.

Are there even any guys on Bzoink, other than Andy? LMAO yeah, I have a bunch of survey-makers bookmarked in Chrome.

Do you own any pool toys? I don’t think we do anymore. We owned a beach ball once but I think it got thrown out already.

#survey #surveys

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emdop · 6 years ago

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Wise Men Say Only Fools Rush In

Remus Lupin flicks through The Daily Prophet, pretending to read the words while mentally reviewing the possible exits out of the Crooked House Café. The quiet hum of people and steaming milk usually soothe his soul, but today his heart rate speeds and Moony’s voice rattles louder. All these people make too much noise. You know what to do.

Remus shoves the paper aside, gripping the table while he concentrates on slowing his heart rate. He listens to white noise, cataloging to Moony their origins and their threat-levels to him. He repeats to him how they’re so very safe, but Moony only screams about the number of people.THEY’RE EXPENDABLE, WEAK. Remus takes a deep breath, praying that after tomorrow’s full moon, it’ll be better. Maybe if he grips his humanity a little tighter, he’ll get to keep it. The front door creaks and Remus’ eyes dart to the noise, seeing familiar wavy black hair enter the café.

Padfoot, Moony whispers and Remus lets out a breath, finally a normal volume.

Sirius shakes out the October chill and unzips his leather jacket to adjust to the inside heat. He weaves to the table where Remus now relaxes.

“This place is so… lopsided,” Sirius says, his grey eyes traveling up to the ceiling then down to the floor. He pulls back a chair and throws a leg up on the table, making himself at home.

Remus chuckles, “Some would say that’s the point.”

Crooked House Café is a small place one village over from Hogsmeade that serves both muggles and wizards. The walls line with shelves of old books and vintage art posters hang below. The posters have a subtle charm on them that allows the subjects to move ever so slightly. Seven table and chair sets dot the interior and offer the only seating. Above each table a bright bare light bulb hangs from the ceiling, so it permanently looks like late afternoon in the café. Remus has always been comforted by the way time pauses in here and stays at the perfect hour.

“Have you done the potions essay yet?” Remus asks Sirius even though he knows the answer. Sirius’ eyebrow twitches and a slow smile forms on his face.

“James is writing ours,” he says.

“Ours?” Remus leans back in his chair, “I’m confident the essay shouldn‘t be co-authored.”

“Well, there’s only one author: James,” he says, studying the chalk board menu. Remus remembers the upcoming Quidditch match and sees the reality.

“So, Lily’s writing three essays?” Remus corrects. “That’s a serious amount of work.” He tenses, realizing he walked straight into it.

“You sound like my mother,” he says off-handed, then gets up to order a drink.

The front door squeaks again and Moony smells Prongs and Wormtail. Remus smiles at the two and waves them over. They commandeer two chairs from an empty neighboring table, squeezing in on opposite sides to fit under the small square table. James adjusts his glasses, then pulls a knee to his chest to get comfortable.

“Is this your secret hideaway?” Peter asks, unraveling his scarf. His eyes circling the off- kilter place much the way Sirius’ did.

“I suppose,” Remus says. He digs into his jean pocket to unearthing folded bills and spare change to find the correct amount for a chocolate muffin.

Sirius returns, knocking into James’ chair and James shoves back, but Sirius’ evasive maneuvers dissolve James’ hard push into a light tap.

“Whoa, there, carrying the goods here,” Sirius says. Remus eyes flutter upward in a disguised eye roll he does when Sirius makes a narcissistic comment. “I saw that,” Sirius’ voice sounds beside Remus, “I wasn’t referring to myself, but I’m glad to know you think of me as the goods.” His braceleted hand places a chocolate muffin in front of Remus before he takes his seat beside James. Remus lets a real eyeroll go this time, but thanks him for the muffin too.

James pulls out our unfinished map from his robe, unfolding it on the table. “Fellow Marauders, we have a new edit to make,” he says.

“Yeah?” Remus raises an eyebrow.

“James and I found a new passage way,” Sirius says, sipping his latte.

“No way!” Peter exclaims, “Where’s this one go?”

James flips through the folds of the map, then points at a blank space outside the castle. “Here,” he says. James’ finger trails along the paper, “And it leads to a little field just outside Hogsmeade.”

“So, it’s underground?” Peter asks. Remus leans closer to the map, assessing the new discovery. They don’t have anything marking the area James traces

“Yeah,” James says, nodding, “It’s a tunnel. Made of stone, flickering lights, and musty water. Bloody creepy.”

“We already have the one-eyed witch passage to go to Hogsmeade. Why use this one?” Peter says.

“This one, I assume by the isolated location, isn’t monitored by anyone,” Remus starts, then continues as Sirius throws him a proud smirk, “And say, if we needed to smuggle something into the castle, it‘s a better passage.”

“This is why we keep you around,” Sirius says with a wink. With the full moon near, Remus’ emotion amplify, so a pink blush dusts his cheeks. Remus clears his throat and pulls at the neck of his sweater.

“Bit warm in here,” he mumbles.

“No kidding,” James agrees, “I’ve sweat through my jumper.” He lifts an arm, pointing to the slight darkening around his pit.

“James, you’ll make the whole place stink,” Sirius says.

“Piss off,” he says, thrusting his foot into the bottom of Sirius’ chair. Remus smiles at their antics, but the joy doesn’t quite reach him. Perhaps, another time will let him feel the happiness. He sighs.

James and Sirius’ mini-fight cause enough ruckus to garner the attention of the owner, a balding man whose frame matches the house: a touch off center. He throws a disapproving look at the group of misfit boys crowded around a small table.

“Our welcome is waning,” Remus says, then checks his watch, “We should get back to the castle, anyway.”

REMUS STARES INTO the narrow tunnel. It’s exactly as James described. The walls and floor are made of stacked stone and the ceiling curves overhead. A set of stairs leads down to a flat floor and every meter a light shines with the help of magic, creating patches of dark and light. We’re not going underground, Moony says. Three Marauders file down the stairs, but Remus stays planted in the grass outside.

“C’mon,” Peter waves a hand, beckoning Remus forward.

He shakes his head, “Moony says no.” Remus chews on his lip as his heart thumps in his chest and his hands sweat, so he sticks them in his pockets.

Peter tugs James’ jumper, then turns his attention to Remus, “We can explore another time.”

The boys climb out of the secret passageway and walk along the gravel path toward the castle. It towers ahead and blocks out the sun’s rays, leaving them in chilly shadows. Sirius zips up his jacket and Peter wraps his scarf around his neck once again while James tucks his hands under his elbows to keep them warm. Remus feels too warm.

“I hate this,” Remus mumbles under his breath. James catches his muttering and gives him a reassuring smile that tells him not to worry. Remus manages to return the expression, but Moony complains about the confining space of Remus’ body. A bead of sweat trickles down his back, adding to his skin’s uncomfortable status. He entertains taking off his layers of clothes, but revealing the scars etched into his body to the world keeps him from enacting this impulse. Remus doesn’t need the extra attention or the stares today, especially today. He glances at his watch again, counting down the hours. They whittle faster than Remus wishes.

James bets Sirius he can run faster, arguing that a stag’s long legs make them better at running than a dog’s short ones. They appoint Remus to be the judge, but before anyone speeds off into the distance, they’re interrupted by the sound of someone else’s footsteps on the gravel path.

“Snivellus,” Sirius say, his upper lip curling back.

“Taking the dog out for a walk, are we?” Severus sneers, narrowing his eyes on Remus. “Woof,” Sirius says. Peter holds in his laughter, but clutches his wand tighter, whether out of fear or anger, Remus doesn’t know.

James squares his shoulders, “Don’t you have a chemistry set to play with or something?”

Severus glares at them then stalks off, his black robes billowing in the wind. They shake off the encounter with Snape and continue with the race, and even Peter places a bet on who will win.

THE FOUR MARAUDERS stuff themselves under James’ invisibility cloak while the sneak through the castle the next night. Remus stoops to match the height of the other boys and they each tug on the edges of the cloak to keep it in place. Remus smells Peter’s fear sweat and the remainders Lily’s perfume on James, but what he really smells is Sirius. His peppermint gum and his favorite cologne swirl in the tight space under the cloak.

“Guys, my feet are sticking out,” Peter whispers.

“I’m pretty sure all of our feet are sticking out,” Sirius says, shifting the surrounding cloak.

“Well, Peter,” Remus chuckles, “if you get caught, we all get caught.”

“So, the usual stakes,” James says. Remus hears the smile in his voice and cracks a smile despite the circumstances and impending trouble.

They make it out of the castle and once they get far enough outside, they ditch the cloak. Remus breathes in the fresh air and watches his friends scatter in front of him, running toward the Whomping Willow to access the passageway to the Shrieking Shack.

The night sky domes above the Marauders, sprinkled with stars and in the sky’s corner, the full moon shines. Remus stares at it while Moony stirs, desperate to claw his way out. Remus sighs, thinking he should admit that he and Moony are one in the same. They are both monstrous and they are both dangerous.

Sirius stops and walks back to where Remus stands.

“You think you’ll make it to the shack?” he asks, “The forest is close if you can’t.”

“Do you ever feel like you won’t ever have enough time?” Remus says, not answering his question, “There’s this idea that at some future time, the pain won’t hurt so much and if we hold on long enough, we’ll get there,” Silence lingers between them as Sirius listens to Remus’ words, both the ones said aloud and those kept inside. “Perhaps that time is only rewarded to the good ones,” Remus says, staring at the ground and shoving his hands into his sweater’s pockets. Sirius’ warm hand grips his shoulder.

“I’ve seen evil and you, Remus John Lupin, don’t compare. You have so much good inside,” Sirius says.

“And so much bad,” Remus whispers.

“I’ve yet to see it.”

“Do you think if I wait long enough, I’ll find the time?” Remus hesitantly peaks up at the familiar grey eyes and shaggy brown hair, fearing both a positive and a negative answer.

Sirius shrugs, “Why wait, Moony?” He points with his head to Whomping Willow, “C’mon, we’ll have to rush to catch up with them.”

Remus follows Sirius, hurrying to meet his best friends. Sirius grabs Remus’ hand to move him along faster, which makes him want to feel this entire moment: the pain of facing his worst fears, the hope of a better future, the knowledge of how dangerous that hope is, and the love of his friends. Remus accepts it all if only for a second to experience a slice of that better time.

#wolfstar #harrypotter #themarauders #themaraudersera #fluff #cute #writing #fanfic #fiction #remus x sirius #sirius black #remus lupin #james potter #lilly evans #peter pettigrew #fanfiction #writblr

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hopefullylovelyxx · 6 years ago

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Ça te rend belle.

part three

Authors Note:

I’m terrible at posting on a schedule basis oops. I tried every weekend then got busy and distracted with other story ideas. I think I can keep up now though. I think I’m gonna start a new story in addition to this one but we’ll see how long it takes for me to write the first part for that one.

. . . . . .

After the brief run in and walk to the janitors room Y/N could not shake Harry from her mind. Everything began to remind her of him. The bells signaling a class beginning and ending made her wonder how he greets his students, was it as polite as he had greeted her? Her students that were taking his course had said he was a funny teacher. Perhaps he opened class with a joke. The lovely rose bushes at the front of the school she passed by on her way to her car now made her wonder what Harry’s favorite flower was. His pretentious exterior would make her assume it’s some rare flower with an extremely hard name to pronounce that grows every 20 years, but the brief glimpse she got into his true personality makes her believe it’s probably a simple plant like a rose or carnation. On her way home as she passed restaurant after restaurant she wondered what his favorite food was. More than anything she wondered what restaurant would be suitable for a first date. When she got home and was greeted by her child, a small white Bolognese dog called Valentina, she wondered if harry was a dog or cat person or maybe both. Needless to say Y/N was completely infatuated with Harry.

These feeling weren’t one sided. Harry’s mind was completely caught up in how he’d start their next conversation. He crossed off ideas of going into her classroom and meeting her in the parking lot after school because they seemed a little invasive. But what more was he left with? He had regretted not meeting her sooner and he knew if he waited too long to start talking to her on a regular basis he’d be filled with even more regret.

Luckily for them both their students had it all figured out...again.

. . . . . .

Friday September 14, 2018 7:35 am

As school began Harry actually listened to the announcements for once. It’s not that he didn’t care about what was going on at the school, he just figured that the information was meant for students and didn’t require his attention.

“Don’t miss today’s assembly where we’ll be announcing this years Homecoming Court.”

Harry still finds the whole ‘King’ and ‘Queen’ thing funny. Growing up in England, he never got to experience things like ‘Homecoming’ or ‘Prom’. Yes he’d hear about it and see it in American films and television shows but it was something he never really understood. Why was there so much intense competition and campaigning for a plastic crown and title no one will care about the next day? Nevertheless, he hypocritically hoped at least one of his students won.

“Homecoming week starts on Monday, dress up for all the spirit days. Monday is Pajama Day, Tuesday is Beach Day, Wednesday is Celebrity Day, Thursday is Twin Day, and Friday is Royalty Day.”

Harry chuckles to himself at the silly dress up week but his students seem to be pleased as they whisper to one another about outfit ideas.

“Teachers, if you want to chaperone this years homecoming dance email Mrs. Nas by Monday for all the details. Have a great day!”

Julia immediately says “Mr. Styles you should be a chaperone.” Everyone shows their signs of agreement and says “What makes you think I want to spend my Saturday night making sure you guys aren’t drinking, doing drugs, or having sex?” Kyle smirks and says “I think I overheard Ms. Y/N saying that she was gonna chaperone.” The whole class smirks at Harry and he feels his blood rush to his face. He composes himself and says “Well then I’ll consider. Clear your desks for the test please.” Julia asks “If I get nominated for Homecoming court will you change my score?” Harry smiles at her attempt and says “Nice try, but no. Good luck though.” She gives a small smile and nod then asks “If I get nominated will you ask Ms.Y/N out?” Harry acts like he didn’t hear her over the sound of all the other students putting their things away but makes a small promise to himself that if any of his students were nominated, he’d ask her out.

. . . . . .

Friday September 14, 2018 11:30 am

Y/N makes her way to the gymnasium for the assembly contemplating if she should dress up as Ariana Grande or Pam from The Office for Celebrity Day. As she walks in she stays towards the back where some of the other teachers are. When she sees Harry standing against the wall reading a book she feels that same tingle in the pit of her stomach and something new in her chest she can’t quite describe.

She immediately walks over to him and says “Whatcha reading?” He jumps a little from the sudden voice but immediately calms as he sees who it belongs to. He folds the corner of the page to save his place then closes it to show her the cover and says “Love Is a Mixtape by Rob Sheffield.” Harry puts the book down on the floor near his feet and Y/N asks “What’s it about?”

He avoids eye contact and just looks across the room at nothing in particular. He crosses his arms and ankles as he leans against the wall and says “It’s an autobiography about his wife and how they dealt with her dying through music. Each chapter comes with a mixtape of songs to listen to while reading. It’s really good. Very well written.”

Y/N continues studying his face as she says “Seems quite sad.” He shrugs and says “Its real life. Not everything’s happy all the time. I think it’s lovely how he turned a tragedy into a beautiful piece of literature. The mixtapes are the same ones they made together, it really adds to the emotion.”

Y/N doesn’t know much about literature let alone as much as a AP Literature teacher would so she just accepts his statement with a few nods then says “Well if you think it’s good I’ll read it.” Harry looks at her face for the first time since she got here and opens his mouth to speak but is cut off by the start of the assembly.

The whole assembly feels like it’s in slow motion for Harry as he just wants the noise to come to an end so he can talk to Y/N. But for her the assembly is going by too fast. She wants time to slow down so she can stand this close to harry for longer.

When they begin to announce the court Harry closely listens for one of his students’ names. Finally he hears Julia’s name and both him and Y/N clap enthusiastically. Y/N turns to Harry and says “She’s been nervous all week about this.” Harry nods recalling the past few days of Julia not paying attention in class and staring off into space.

The assembly comes to a close and lunch time immediately begins. Y/N is afraid Harry will leave right away but to her surprise he says “Do you wanna go grab lunch?”

It’s not completely asking her out but it’s a step and Harry isn’t planning on breaking the promise he made with himself.

Y/N doesn’t know if she heard him right or if she’s delusional but when he elaborates and says “S’fine if you don’t. Just wanted to ask.” She immediately smiles being reassured that she’s not in fact hearing things. “I’d love to grab lunch with you.”

Harry doesn’t know exactly what to do next; he didn’t think he’d get this far. He picks up his book from the ground and says “We can go in my car.” She nods and they walk out to the parking lot.

They walk past Y/N’s car and harry scoffs. She confusedly asks “what?” He says “This car has been parking in my parking space for a month.” Y/N, now amused by his frustration asks “Is your name on it?” He says “No but I’ve parked here for the past 2 years.” She shrugs and says “That’s real life. It’s not going to be happy all the time.” He fake pouts at her use of his previous quotes and says “Oi, here I am tryna take you out for some tacos and you mock me. What a minx.” She giggles and they get into his car.

Y/N breaks the silence almost immediately and asks “Are you gonna chaperone the dance?” Harry doesn’t want to say his true opinion in fear it’d conflict with hers but he doesn’t want to lie and be in-genuine. He finds a middle ground and says “I’m not sure. Seems a little odd, ya know. Hovering over the students while they’re just trying to have a good time.”

Y/N moves her head in agreement and says “Yeah it is a little weird. At my Homecoming senior year there was only 3 teachers who chaperoned so everyone brought mini vodka bottles and grinded on each other. So I understand why they have chaperones.” Harry laughs and says “Did you participate in the vodka and grinding?” Y/N fake scoffs and jokingly says “How dare you! I was a straight B student, I would never!” They both laugh and Y/N says “Wanna go to homecoming with me?”

Harry can’t fight the huge grin and blush making their way to his face and neither can Y/N. She feels like she’s back in high school and just told her crush she liked them. Harry nods and says “Yeah. As long as you bring the mini vodka bottles.” They both smile at each other briefly and Y/N tries to contain her excitement. She gets her phone out and begins to email Mrs. Nas informing her on their desire to chaperone.

Once she’s done she reads it aloud, “Dear Mrs. Nas, Me and Mr. Styles are interested in chaperoning this years homecoming dance. What additional information should we know prior to next Saturday’s dance?” Harry quickly says “Mr. Styles and I.” Y/N corrects the error and says “Where were you to proof read all my essays?”

They finally arrive at the taco shop drive thru and order their food. When they get to the window Y/N opens her phone case to pull out the $10 she always keeps in case of emergencies but Harry’s already handing the worker $20. She gives Harry the $10 but he shakes his head and says “S’fine love. Keep it.” Y/N isn’t taking no for answer so as harry is focused on grabbing the bag of food from the window, Y/N puts the $10 in the middle console quickly.

She grabs the bag from him so he can continue driving and she says “Thank you.” He says “No problem. Now what color tie should I wear?” Y/N laughs and says “Whatever you want. I’m not picky.” Harry mentally pictures his closet and says “Grey blazer and trousers with a black shirt or black blazer and trousers with a pink shirt?” Y/N is the last person he should come to for fashion tips. “Um. I don’t know I’d have to see what they look like.” With a sudden boost of confidence Harry says “I’ll send you a picture later.” Y/N just nods not trusting her mouth.

On the note of fashion and clothing Y/N asks “What are you planning on wearing for spirit week?” Harry’s face contorts into something Y/N can only describe as surprise and confusion. “I wasn’t gonna dress up actually.” Y/N immediately inquires “Why not? If you don’t have anything for some of the days I could let you borrow some stuff. You could also go to the thrift store so you don’t waste money on stuff you’re only gonna wear once.” Harry shakes his head and says “No no. It’s not that. Just seems a bit...silly.”

Y/N feels a bit defensive and says “It’s not silly. The way I see it is if teachers dress up it shows the students that they have spirit for the school too.” Harry shrugs and says “Most students don’t even want to be at school. Me wearing pajamas isn’t going to change that.”

Y/N frowns at his pessimistic remarks. She’s always been a ‘half full’ type of person. This mixed with her stubbornness made her determined to change Harry’s mind. As they pull into the school parking lot she says “It’s just one week. I’ll help you if you need it.”

He pulls into the same parking spot he left 20 minutes ago and says “What even is Royalty Day?” They get out of the car and Y/N happily answers “You get to dress up as a prince or princess.” Harry grabs the bag from her hand and says “How is wearing a crown showing I have school spirit again?” Y/N rolls her eyes as they walk into the school and says “It’s about your intentions not what you’re wearing.”

She opens her classroom door and holds it open as she let’s Harry in first. He puts the bag of food down on a desk and she moves two desks to face one another. They both sit and she still holds onto her argument. “I still think you should dress up next week.” Harry can’t help but smile at her insistent determination. “I’ve never met someone so passionate about Pajama Day.” They both laugh and she says “I’m extremely passionate. Don’t even get me started on Twin Day.”

They share a giggle as they lock eyes and Harry can’t say no to her any longer. “Which celebrity should I dress up as?” Y/N immediately lights up and says “You’d make a great Danny DeVito.”

They both laugh and enjoy the rest of lunch discussing outfit ideas and eating their tacos. The bell ringing knocks them out of the world they subconsciously created with each other. They quickly clean up and move the desks back then Harry remembers, “Can I have your number? So I can show you the suits.” Y/N nods and says “oh yeah let me write it down for you.” She quickly grabs a pen and sticky note from Mrs. Meyers’ desk and writes her number with a smiley face. She hands it to him and he quickly says “Had a good time.” And exits the classroom.

Almost immediately students start funneling in and Mrs. Meyers is only 7 minutes late to class this time. When 6th period rolls around Y/N makes sure to congratulate Julia.

The rest of class Y/N plays a French film since it’s Friday. As she catches up on some of her own school work she sees her phone light up. She checks it hoping to see an unknown number but to her dismay it’s just a notification from her period tracking app. She tries to focus on her work but now all she can think about is Harry texting her.

For some reason she feels a bit like somethings missing from herself. All the conversations, jokes, looks, and smiles added up and created a warm little spot in Erica’s heart and now that he’s across campus instead of with her the new bit of herself she gained through harry is absent. All she had now are memories. She remembers seeing him at the assembly and the book he was reading.

She quickly grabs her phone and buys the ebook version. She begins reading and makes the mixtape for the first chapter in Spotify. She proceeds to read and listen with the little thought in the back of her head that Harry had read these same words and heard these same beats and lyrics. What had he thought about them?

. . . . . .

Later that day, after Y/N had taken Valentina for a walk, ate dinner, and finished up some school work she began to grow impatient waiting for his text. She occupied herself with reading but she still couldn’t help but wonder what was taking him so long. Through the law of attraction or simply by coincidence she received a message from an unfamiliar number.

“Hope this is the right number. Couldn’t tell if it was a 3 or an 8. -h”

“Yes this is the right number. Sorry for the hand writing.”

Harry sends the two pictures of him in the black suit option and in the grey suit option. Watching the three dots in the message bubble as she types feels like the most excrutiating 5 seconds of his life.

“I don’t know much about fashion but both are really nice. I’d say the grey one though :)”

Y/N watched the typing symbol and each time three dots flutter she feels her heart beat quicker.

“Perfect. Thanks for your input. What are you wearing?”

“Black shorts and a red halter top, why?”

Immediately after pressing send Y/N understands what he meant.

“I meant to the dance 😂”

“I didn’t realize until after sorry 😂. I’m not sure yet.”

“I’m sure it’ll be lovely. I gotta go grade some papers, talk to you tomorrow?”

“I’d love to.”

“:) perfect”

Y/N goes back and forth thinking about responding but decides the conversation is dead and locks her phone grinning widely.

. . . . . .

Thank you for reading! xx

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