#i've grown fond of my dark side

[natsaffection]

I have a platonic, non smut request if you’re down! Nat x fem!reader, they’re a couple and live in a neighborhood w a girl who’s young (5 or smth) . The girl is sweet and has lemonade stands in front of her house n stuff so that’s how nat and reader interact w her. One day, the girl runs to nat and reader’s house, banging on the door begging to be let in because her mom’s boyfriend beat her up or was threatening to. Nat and reader let her in immediately and go into protection mode, even when the bf starts spitting lies, blaming the girl.

This was inspired by a video I saw where a neighbor was protecting a girl and thought it would work perfectly w nat given her own red room history n stuff. I feel like she would tolerate no BS. I know this is very different from what u normally write so I hope it’s ok 🫶

Through Darkness | N.R

Warnings: Domestic Violants, Threatening to hurt a child, mentioned of Bruises, Happy end!!

Word count: 5,4k

A/n: That was the sweetest thing I've ever written. But I needed help, so I watched We Bought a Zoo with Scarlett while I was writing.🫂

Natasha leaned against the kitchen counter, drinking a glass of water. Her sharp eyes watched you as you bustled around the kitchen, preparing dinner. The scent of fresh basil and tomatoes filled the room, making the house feel even more like a home. It had been a few months since they moved into this quiet neighborhood. After everything Natasha had been through, the chaos and destruction, the idea of a peaceful life seemed foreign to her. But here, with you by her side, she began to understand what peace could feel like.

“Dinner’s almost ready!” you said, looking up from the pot you were stirring. Your smile was one Natasha had grown fond of. Warm, welcoming, and full of love. It was a smile that made Natasha’s heart ache with how much you meant to her. She smiled back, setting down her glass and moving to stand next to you. “It smells fantastic. You always manage to make something special out of so little.”

You chuckled softly. “Years of practice. Plus, I had to learn to keep up with you.” Before Natasha could respond, a high-pitched voice outside caught her attention. “Lemonade! Fresh lemonade! Only fifty cents a cup!”

Both of you turned to the window that overlooked the front yard. There, on the sidewalk across the street, stood a little girl, no older than five. Her brown curls bounced as she enthusiastically waved a homemade sign. Next to her was a small table with a pitcher of lemonade and a few paper cups. You smiled affectionately. “She’s out there almost every day. Have you seen her?” Natasha nodded. “Yes, I’ve noticed her a few times. Sweet kid.”

“Let’s go say hello.” you suggested, already wiping your hands on a dish towel. “And maybe grab some lemonade.” Natasha hesitated for a moment, but the gentle encouragement in your eyes was enough. “Alright.” she agreed with a smile.

Together, you left the house and crossed the street. The little girl’s face lit up as she saw you approaching. “Hi!” she called out cheerfully, her brown eyes sparkling with excitement. “Do you want some lemonade?” You knelt down to her level, your smile gentle. “We’d love some. What’s your name, little one?”

“I’m Lily!” the girl said proudly, carefully pouring lemonade into two cups. Natasha handed her a dollar bill. “Keep the change, Lily.” Her eyes widened, and she beamed at Natasha. “Thank you! My mom says it’s important to save money, and I want to buy a new doll.”

“That’s a great goal.” you said, taking a cup from Lily. “I’m Y/n, and this is Natasha. We live right across the street.”

“Are you married?” Lily asked innocently, and her question caught Natasha off guard. You laughed softly and glanced at Natasha. “Not yet, but maybe one day.” Natasha felt a warmth spread through her chest at your words. She had never thought about marriage before, but the idea didn’t seem so far-fetched now.

Lily nodded seriously, as if your answer made perfect sense. “You should be. You’re both really nice.” Natasha and you exchanged a look, both touched by the child’s innocent wisdom. You stayed with Lily for a few more minutes, chatting about her lemonade business and the dolls she wanted to buy. Natasha found herself relaxing more than she had in weeks, and the simple joy of the moment eased some of the tension she had been carrying.

As you said your goodbyes and headed back to your house, you took Natasha’s hand and intertwined your fingers. “She’s sweet, isn’t she?” Natasha nodded. “Yes, she is. She reminds me that there’s good in the world.” You squeezed her hand gently. “And that’s exactly what we’re fighting for.” Natasha smiled, feeling a sense of peace spread through her. In this quiet neighborhood, with you by her side and a little girl selling lemonade, she realized that maybe, just maybe, she had found a place where she truly belonged.

The days settled into a pleasant rhythm. Natasha and you looked forward to the moments when you would see Lily, her bright smile and cheerful energy a welcome addition to your lives. Often, you would stop by her lemonade stand, sometimes just to chat, and other times to enjoy the simple pleasure of a cold drink on a warm day.

One Saturday afternoon, you decided to take a walk through the nearby park. The sun was high in the sky, casting a warm light over the tree-lined paths. The scent of blooming flowers filled the air, and the laughter of children echoed from a nearby playground. As you walked hand in hand, Natasha noticed a familiar figure in the distance. Lily was skipping along the path, holding hands with a woman who must have been her mother. The woman was tall and slender, with the same brown curls as Lily, though hers were tied up in a loose bun. She had a kind face, but Natasha couldn’t miss the weariness in her eyes.

You waved to them, and Lily’s face lit up when she recognized you. “Natasha! Y/N!” she called, pulling her mother along behind her. Natasha and you smiled as you approached, exchanging a warm greeting with the little girl. Lily’s mother smiled politely, but there was a slight tension in her posture, as if she were carrying a burden no one else could see. “Hello.” you said kindly. “It’s nice to finally meet you. I’m Y/n, and this is Natasha.”

The woman nodded, a small, somewhat forced smile on her lips. “I’m Rachel. Lily talks about you two all the time. She’s always excited to see you.” Lily beamed up at her mother. “They’re my best customers!”

Natasha laughed, kneeling down to Lily’s level. “And you’re our favorite lemonade seller.” Lily giggled, clearly pleased with the attention. As Natasha stood back up, she noticed Rachel’s gaze flick nervously over her shoulder. She followed Rachel’s eyes and saw a man standing a few steps away, his hands deep in his pockets, watching them. He was tall and broad shouldered, his expression unreadable, but something about the way he looked at Rachel made Natasha uneasy.

Rachel’s smile faltered a little, and she quickly looked back at you and Natasha. “That’s Mark, my.. boyfriend." she said, her voice a little strained. Mark nodded in greeting, but his eyes never left Rachel. Natasha felt a wave of discomfort rising in her. She had spent years honing her instincts, learning to pick up on the smallest signs of danger, and right now, every instinct was telling her that something was off.

You, always attuned to Natasha’s moods, noticed the subtle shift in her posture. You glanced at her questioningly, but she gave a barely perceptible shake of her head. Not here, not now. “Are you headed to the playground?” you asked in a light, casual tone, trying to diffuse the tension. Rachel nodded, her grip on Lily’s hand tightening. “Yes, Lily loves the playground. We try to come on weekends.”

“That’s great..” you replied, smiling at Lily. “Maybe we’ll see you around more often.” Lily looked up at her mother eagerly. “Can we play with them, Mama? Please?” she asked, her eyes hopeful as she gazed at her Mama. But she hesitated, casting a nervous glance at Mark, who only gave a slight nod of his head. “Maybe another time, sweetheart. We need to head home soon.”

Lily pouted a little but didn’t argue, sensing her mother’s unease. “Okay…” she said softly. Natasha’s heart ached at the sight of the disappointed little girl. She wanted to ask Rachel if everything was okay, if there was anything they could do to help, but she knew better than to push. Instead, she gave Lily a reassuring smile. “We’ll see you soon, okay?” Lily nodded, her smile returning, though it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Okay! Bye, Natasha! Bye, Y/N!”

“Goodbye!” you called as you parted ways and continued down the path. As you walked further along the trail, Natasha’s thoughts kept circling back to what she had just witnessed. Something wasn’t right about the whole encounter, especially in the way Rachel and Mark interacted. It wasn’t just protectiveness or possessiveness in Mark’s eyes..there was something darker, something that set off alarm bells in Natasha’s mind.

You gently squeezed Natasha’s hand, pulling her out of her thoughts. “What’s wrong?” you asked quietly, your voice filled with concern. Natasha cast one last glance back in the direction where Rachel, Lily, and Mark had disappeared. “I’m not sure..” she said softly. “But I’m going to find out.”

You nodded, trusting Natasha’s instincts implicitly. “Do you think she’s in trouble?” Natasha didn’t answer right away. She was trying to piece together the puzzle in her head, figuring out what exactly had triggered her discomfort. “Maybe..” she finally said. “Or maybe I’m just being paranoid. But I can’t shake the feeling that something’s wrong.”

You frowned, your worry growing. “If you think something’s wrong, we should do something. We can’t just ignore it.” Natasha nodded, her jaw setting in determination. “We won’t. But we have to be careful. If there’s really something going on, we don’t want to make it worse.” As you continued your walk, the warmth of the sun on your back, Natasha’s thoughts kept returning to Rachel and Lily. She couldn’t shake the feeling that the peace they had found in this quiet neighborhood was more fragile than it seemed. And if something threatened that peace, Natasha was ready to do whatever it took to protect the people she cared about.

The night was quiet and still, with the moon casting a soft, silver glow over the neighborhood. Natasha and you slept peacefully in your bed, your bodies nestled close together, the gentle sound of your breathing the only noise in the room. The calm of the night seemed to envelop you, offering a rare moment of complete tranquility.

But that peace was abruptly shattered by frantic knocking at the front door. Natasha was the first to stir, her finely tuned instincts kicking in immediately. In an instant, she was out of bed, pulling on a shirt as she moved, her senses on high alert. You were awake a second later, your heart racing at the sound.

“Natasha?” you called softly as you quickly threw something on as well. “Stay here,” Natasha instructed, but you followed her downstairs anyway.

The knocking at the door grew more desperate, and Natasha felt a cold fear settling in her stomach. She motioned for you to stay back as she approached the door, but the moment she heard the sobbing of a child, all caution was forgotten. She flung the door open to find Lily standing there, her face streaked with tears, her small body trembling in the cool night air.

“Lily!” you exclaimed in shock, immediately kneeling down to be at eye level with the girl. “Sweetheart, what happened? Why are you out here?” Lily looked up at you, her lip quivering, but she said nothing. She shook her head and took a small step back, as if afraid to enter the house.

Natasha’s heart broke at the sight of the terrified little girl. She knelt beside you, her voice gentle and calm. “Lily, it’s okay. You’re safe here. No one will hurt you.” But Lily’s eyes were still wide with fear, and she clung to her stuffed animal. She was trembling so much that she could barely stand.

You gently placed a hand on Lily’s arm. “You don’t have to be scared, Lily. You can tell us what happened. We just want to help.” For a moment, Lily seemed torn between her fear and her trust in the two of you. She glanced back at the dark street, her breath catching as if she were reliving whatever had driven her to your doorstep. Then, slowly, she took a hesitant step forward and allowed you to pull her into a warm embrace.

Lily buried her face in your shoulder, her small body shaking with silent sobs. “H-He was..he was so angry..?” she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Natasha exchanged a worried look with you, her protective instincts flaring. “Who was angry, Lily?” she asked gently, though she already had a sinking feeling in her stomach. Lily clung to you, her small hands gripping your shirt as if she were afraid to let go. She was crying so hard that she could barely breathe, her sobs coming in ragged gasps.

“Shh, it’s okay, sweetheart, it’s okay..” you murmured, your voice soft and soothing as you held Lily close. You look at Natasha and don't know exactly what to do now. Natasha quickly stepped outside, her eyes scanning the dark street, searching for any signs of danger, but the neighborhood was eerily still. She turned back to you and Lily, her heart breaking at the sight of the frightened little girl.

“Lily, sweetheart, who was angry? Can you tell us?” Lily’s sobs began to subside, though she was still trembling. She buried her face in your shoulder again, her voice muffled and broken. “H-He hit Mommy! He kept hitting her. She told him to stop, but he wouldn’t stop…” Your grip around Lily tightened protectively, tears shimmering in your eyes. “Do you mean your mom’s friend? You did the right thing coming here, Lily.”

Lily sniffled and wiped her nose with the back of her hand. “Yes..her friend, and I remembered you said I could always come to you..” Natasha felt a surge of anger and protectiveness like she had never felt before. The thought of someone hurting this sweet little girl or her mother was unbearable. But she knew she needed to stay calm for Lily’s sake. She closed the door behind her and knelt down again.

“You were so brave, Lily." Natasha said softly, her voice steady. “You did the right thing. You’re safe now, I promise.” The little girl trembled and buried her face in your shoulder again. “I want my mommy..II want her to be okay..” You rocked her gently, your heart breaking at the thought of a child so young having to endure such fear. “We’re going to make sure your mommy is okay. We’re going to help her, and we’re going to help you.”

Natasha and you exchanged a determined look. You both knew that action needed to be taken. Natasha placed a hand on Lily’s back, trying to soothe her. “Lily, I’m going to go check on your mommy, okay? Y/n will stay here with you.”

Lily looked up at you with big, frightened eyes and clung even tighter to you. “No! Please don’t go! He’s still there! He’ll hurt you too!” Before Natasha could respond, Lily’s eyes widened with new fear. She clutched at you and began to scream in high-pitched tones. Natasha froze as she heard the sound of heavy footsteps on the porch too. The sharp smell of alcohol was the first thing she noticed, and she knew immediately who it was.

Mark.

Your face paled as you glanced toward the door, and Natasha quickly analyzed the situation. "Y/n, take her upstairs. I’ll handle this." You lifted Lily into your arms, her small face buried in your neck. "Please be careful, Natasha.."

Natasha nodded, not taking her eyes off the door. “Go.” The little girl clung to you tightly as you hurried up the stairs. Natasha positioned herself between the door and the stairs, her heart pounding in her chest as she prepared for what was about to happen. The door was thrown open with such force that it slammed against the wall. Mark stumbled into the house, his face red with anger, his eyes bloodshot and wild. The smell of alcohol was overwhelming, and Natasha’s stomach churned at the sight of him.

“Where is she?!” Mark slurred, his voice dripping with rage. “Where’s that little brat? She’s the one to blame for all of this!!” His eyes narrowed as he charged toward Natasha, his fists swinging wildly. But Natasha was faster. She dodged his attack effortlessly, grabbed his arm, and twisted it behind his back in one fluid motion. Mark cried out in pain, but Natasha didn’t loosen her grip.

“Let me go, you bitch!” Mark bellowed, struggling to free his arm from her grasp, but Natasha held him with iron strength. “You’re not going to get near that girl again." Natasha hissed, her voice low and dangerous. “You’ve done enough damage.” Mark fought against her hold, but it was futile. Natasha easily forced him to the ground and held him there. She could feel his muscles tense under her grip, but she didn’t relent.

Upstairs, you quickly brought Lily into the guest room and gently set her on the bed. “Lily, it’s okay. You’re safe here, understand? I’ll make sure of it.” Lily was still trembling, her eyes wide with fear. “Will he hurt Natasha?”

“No," you said firmly, though the fear for Natasha grew within you. "Natasha is very strong, and she’ll make sure he can’t hurt anyone anymore. But I need to make a call, okay? We need to call the police so they can help us.” Lily nodded hesitantly, curling up with her stuffed animal. You quickly pulled out your phone and dialed 911, your voice trembling slightly as you explained the situation to the dispatcher.

Downstairs, Natasha was still holding Mark down on the floor, her mind racing. She knew she needed to get Rachel and Lily out of this situation permanently, but for now, Mark was the immediate threat. The sound of sirens in the distance brought a sense of relief. Help was on the way. Mark groaned beneath her, still struggling weakly. “You..you can’t do this!! Who do you think you are?!”

Natasha leaned closer to him, her voice a deadly whisper. “Oh, watch me.” Minutes later, two police officers burst into the house. Natasha stood up and released Mark, the officers immediately moving to restrain him. He was still shouting, hurling curses and threats, but Natasha felt nothing but disgust as they hauled him to his feet. “Are you alright?” one of the officers asked as they led Mark out of the house.

“I’m fine." Natasha replied coolly. “But you should check on the mother across the street. I think she’s in bad shape.” The officer nodded seriously. “We’ll take care of it. Thank you for stepping in.” Natasha watched as they led Mark out of the house and closed the door behind them. The house was suddenly quiet again, but the tension in the air remained palpable. Natasha took a deep breath to calm her nerves before heading upstairs.

When she reached the guest room, she found you sitting on the bed next to Lily. The little girl had finally calmed down and was no longer crying. The sight of the vulnerable and frightened child made Natasha’s heart ache, but she forced herself to smile gently as she approached. “It’s over." Natasha said softly. “He’s gone.”

Lily looked up at her, her eyes still wet with tears. “Is my mommy okay?” Natasha knelt beside the bed, her voice gentle and reassuring. "The police are going to check on your mommy and make sure she's okay. And we're going to help you and your mommy, Lily. We won't let anyone hurt you again."

Lily nodded slowly, a small spark of hope appearing in her eyes. "Promise?" Natasha reached out and softly wiped away a tear from Lily's cheek. "I promise."

You wrapped your arm around Lily and pulled her close. "You're safe now, sweetheart. We'll take care of everything." As Lily finally began to relax in your arms, Natasha felt a deep determination rising within her. This wasn't the end of the situation, but it was the first step. She was going to do everything in her power to protect Lily and Rachel, no matter what it took.

The paramedics had just treated Rachel’s injuries, and the police were finishing their reports. The once peaceful night was now filled with quiet, official conversations, and the flashing lights of the emergency vehicles cast an eerie glow through the windows. Lily sat on the sofa between Natasha and you, her small body still trembling, and her large eyes reflected a mixture of fear and confusion.

Rachel sat nearby, her face marked with bruises, and her expression was exhausted. The weight of the night’s events had drained her, but her entire focus was on Lily, who was like a beacon of strength for her. One of the police officers approached Rachel, his tone professional but gentle. “Mrs. Dawson, under the circumstances, protocol requires that we place your daughter in temporary foster care until you are able to care for her again.”

Rachel’s already pale face turned even whiter, and she immediately shook her head, panic flashing in her eyes. “No! No, please, she can’t go into foster care.. She’s been through enough. Please, don’t take her away from me!”

Lily looked up in alarm at the officer’s words, her wide, frightened eyes turning to her mother. “Mama..I don’t want to go..” Instinctively, you put your arm around Lily and pulled her closer to you. Natasha’s expression darkened as she sensed the rising fear in Rachel and Lily. The thought of Lily being taken away, even temporarily, was unthinkable to you both. Not after everything the little girl had already endured.

Rachel looked at Natasha and you with desperation, her voice trembling with emotion. “Please..she can stay with you, right? You live right across the street. She knows you, she feels safe with you..please, don’t let them take her away.” The officer hesitated, visibly torn. “Ma’am, I understand your concern, but the safety of the child is our top priority. We need to ensure that she’s in a stable environment while you recover.”

Natasha stood up, her stance determined as she stepped forward. “She is in a stable environment. Right here, with us.” Her voice was calm but firm, with the tone of someone who wasn’t used to being questioned. You nodded, equally resolute. “We live right across the street. We’re neighbors and friends, and Lily trusts us. We can take care of her while Rachel is in the hospital. You can check in on her anytime.”

The officer looked between Natasha and you, clearly aware of who you both were. He sighed, knowing this wasn’t an easy decision. “Are you sure you can take on this responsibility? It could be several days, maybe longer.”

Natasha didn’t hesitate. “We’re sure. We’ll make sure she’s safe, and she’ll be close to her mother. That’s what’s best for her.” Rachel’s eyes filled with tears of relief as she reached for Lily’s hand. “Please, Officer.. don’t take her away from me. I can’t bear it. She’s been through enough already.” The officer exchanged a look with his colleague, then back at Natasha and you. After a brief pause, he nodded. “Alright. We’ll allow it, but we’ll need to conduct regular checks to ensure everything is going smoothly.”

Natasha nodded. “Of course. We’ll cooperate fully.” The officer turned to Rachel. “We’ll take you to the hospital now, Mrs. Dawson. You need to focus on your recovery.” Rachel nodded, tears streaming down her face as she turned to Lily. “Sweetheart, you’ll stay with Natasha and Y/n for a little while, okay? They’ll take good care of you.”

Lily, still clutching her stuffed animal, looked up at her mother, her voice trembling. “But..I-I want to stay with you, Mama..”

Rachel’s heart broke at her daughter’s words, but she forced herself to smile despite the pain. “I know, darling. And I want to stay with you too. But I need to get better first, so I can be with you again. Natasha and Y/n will take care of you, and I’ll be very close by, okay?” Lily nodded slowly, wiping the tears from her eyes. “Okay..but promise me you’ll come back soon?”

Rachel’s voice cracked as she leaned down and kissed Lily’s forehead. “I promise, sweetheart. I’ll come back as soon as I can.” You gently took Lily’s hand in yours, your voice soft and reassuring. “Let’s go home, Lily. We’ll make you some hot chocolate and get you to bed, okay?” Lily nodded again, her small hand gripping yours tightly. She gave her mother one last look, and Rachel smiled encouragingly through her tears and nodded to her.

As the paramedics helped Rachel to her feet and escorted her out of the house, you and Natasha led Lily back across the street to your home. The little girl was quiet, her mind clearly processing everything that had happened. You carried her into the living room and set her on the sofa while Natasha locked the door and made sure the house was secure.

Inside, you knelt in front of Lily and gently wiped away a stray tear from her cheek. “You’re so brave, Lily. Your Mama is going to get better, and we’ll take care of you until then. You’re safe here with us.” Natasha sat down beside Lily on the sofa. “We’ll make sure you stay close to your Mommy, and we’ll visit her as soon as she’s feeling better. But for now, we’re here for you.”

Lily looked up at both of you, her eyes filled with a mix of sadness and trust. “Okay..but can we visit her tomorrow?” You smiled, your heart filled with love for the little girl. “We’ll try, sweetheart. Let’s get through the night first, and then we’ll see what we can do tomorrow.” Natasha gently stroked Lily’s hair, feeling a strong protective instinct for the child who had already been through so much. “We’re here for you, Lily. You’re not alone.”

In the quiet of the night, as Lily finally fell asleep in the next room, you and Natasha shared a silent moment of reflection. You had stepped into this role out of necessity, but now it felt like more. You were no longer just neighbors or friends; you were a family, brought together by circumstances and bound by love. And as long as you had each other, you knew you could face any challenges that lay ahead.

The visit to the hospital the next day went as well as could be hoped for in such a situation. Lily clung to her mother, her small body finally relaxing in the comforting arms of Rachel, and Rachel, though bruised and exhausted, smiled brighter than Natasha and you had ever seen. There was still a long road ahead of them, but the worst seemed to be over.

Three days later, Rachel was discharged. As the evening wore on, you and Natasha returned home, your house now quieter without Lily’s youthful energy. The night had gently fallen over the neighborhood, and a sense of calm finally settled in after the emotional whirlwind of the past few days. After getting ready for bed, you found yourselves lying close together, the soft light of the bedside lamp casting a warm glow over the room. Your hands were intertwined, both of you lost in thought.

You broke the silence first, your voice gentle. “You were amazing with Lily, Nat. You really helped her through something so terrible.” Natasha turned her head slightly to look into your eyes, a small smile playing on her lips. “I just wanted to make sure she was safe. She’s a strong little girl, but no one should have to go through what she did.”

You nodded, your gaze softening as you brushed a strand of hair from Natasha’s face. “You have such a strong protective instinct. That’s one of the things I love most about you.” Natasha’s smile faded a little, and she looked away, her eyes clouded with memories she rarely let surface. You, always sensitive to her moods, hesitated before speaking again.

“Nat..h-have you ever thought about..starting a family of our own?” you asked quietly, your voice filled with both hope and caution. Natasha held her breath for a moment, feeling her heart tighten. She had always known this conversation would come eventually, but now that you had voiced it, it felt even more real. She took a deep breath before answering, her voice calm but tinged with deep pain.

“You know that I…The Red Room made sure that..” Your heart aching at the thought of all the horrors Natasha had endured, and the irreversible damage done to her body. It was a subject Natasha rarely spoke about, and you had always respected that, never pushing, because you knew how deeply the pain ran. “I know, Nat.." you said softly, holding her hand a little tighter. “But..family doesn’t have to be just biological. Look at what we’ve done for Lily in just a few days. You were there for her like a mother would be. And I think..I think you’d make an incredible mom. And..if it’s okay to say this..But what if I get pregnant?”

Natasha looked into your eyes, her green eyes reflecting the inner battle she was fighting. “But what if..what if I can’t do it? What if I can’t be what a child needs? I’ve spent my whole life fighting, Y/n. I’m not sure I even know how to be..normal.”

You smiled, leaning in to give her a gentle kiss on the forehead. “You don’t have to be anything other than yourself, Natasha. That’s exactly why I love you. And being parents doesn’t mean we have to be perfect. It means loving, protecting, and doing our best.” Natasha’s heart ached with a mix of longing and fear. The thought of having a family, of creating something good and whole out of the broken pieces of her past, was both terrifying and tempting. But as she looked into your eyes, she felt a warmth, a hope she hadn’t allowed herself to feel in a long time.

“Do you really think we could do it?” Natasha asked, her voice barely more than a whisper. You nodded, your eyes shining with love and certainty. “Yes, I do. And we’d do it together, just like we do everything else. We don’t have to decide right now, but..I wanted you to know that I’ve been thinking about it. And I would want to do it with you.”

Natasha was silent for a long moment, letting the idea settle in her heart. It was a difficult topic, one that opened old wounds, but your unwavering support gave her the courage to at least consider it. Finally, Natasha nodded slightly, her grip on your hand tightening just a little. “Maybe..maybe one day. I don’t know if I’m ready yet, but..I’d like to think about it. With you.”

You smiled, your heart swelling with even more love for the woman beside you. “That’s all I could ever want, Nat..Everything in its own time.” The two of you lay there in silence for a while, holding each other close, the weight of the conversation gradually giving way to a deep, comforting sense of connection. Outside, the night was quiet and peaceful, and inside, in the warmth of your love, the future seemed a little less daunting. As Natasha closed her eyes, feeling the steady rhythm of your heartbeat under her hand, she allowed herself to dream of a future where the two of you could build a family together. It was a new and unfamiliar dream, but with you by her side, it no longer seemed impossible. And with you beside her, she knew you could face whatever the future had in store for you both.

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🤧🤧🤧🤧

[urwhorecrux]

UGH I love sub draco 🫡 if you can I'd love it if you could write something about him!! love ur writing

thank you so muchh this means a lot to me <3

⋆ ˚⁀➷ ₊˚⊹⋆ birthday boy - d.m

pairing. draco malfoy x fem!reader.

summary. reader visits draco, her friend on his birthday. smut.

warnings. smut, (16+ please), sub/dom characters, p in v, praises, mommy kink.

a/n. idk this can either be third pov or your pov, it''s really all over the place. lmk if yall want a non mommy kink ver.

word count. 1.2k

y/n looks up at the clock hanging on her bedroom wall, "11:02 am" it read. it was the next day, one she had been waiting for since school recently let out.

she stood in front of the mirror, softly flattening her skirt as a final touch to her outfit. she decided to dress up, it was a special day after all. she wore a long, black satin skirt. along with a dark green corset, as it was draco's favorite color after all.

you planned to stay at the malfoy manor, though his father wasn't exactly "fond" of you both seeing each other, it was somewhat allowed. he assumed there would be nothing more than just you two being friends. with a wave of your wand, you apparated to the dim manor. the manor was completely dim, even for such a bright day.

you softly knocked on the door, and soon you faced a blonde-haired guy who stood straightly, a small smirk appearing on his face. he stood tall, wearing a black suit bringing out his every attractive feature.

"you came" he greeted her, taking her hand in his guiding her in.

"'f' course i did, i wouldn't miss my best friend's birthday, and after all these years? no, I couldn't". she laughed, making draco softly chuckle.

draco softly cupped her face, gently pulling it closer to him, planting a soft kiss on her cheek.

"here, happy birthday love" she placed a small, velvet black box in his hands.

in his hands he slowly opened it, revealing a silver black gem ring, two small snakes sitting on each side.

his eyes lit up, admiring the ring with a soft smile on his face. "y/n it's perfect, thank you love", he pulled softly by her waist, kissing her forehead, thanking her.

he inhales deeply, pulling only inches away from her face. the tension around them grew by each second, as the room stayed silent.

"y/n, i um-" he takes an exhale in before continuing, "i-i think I've grown to like you- or, grew to fall in love with you after all this time" he broke eye contact, looking anywhere else around the room but her eyes.

"draco" y/n cupped his face, tilting his chin to be sure he was faced towards her.

"I've loved you for all these years too, idiot" she chuckled, pressing their faces closer together, rekindling eye contact with each other.

he wasted no time, smashing his lips to hers as he pulls her waist into him, bodies touching one another as the passionate kisses began turning into a makeout, draco laying her down over his bed.

he discarded his blazer and soon his shirt, as her heels and clothes went with it. it soon hit her reality, that this was the moment. she soon began straddling him on top, grinding against his trousers.

"let me do the work dray, it's your special day after all, let me just make you feel good", she slowly unbuckled his belt, pulling his boxers down, his swollen cock springing out his boxers.

she whimpers at the sight of his cock, craving him desperately. she runs his fingers through his thick, platinum hair, placing soft kisses up his neck to jawline. she makes her way down to his thighs, softly planting kisses across them before kitten licking his tip.

draco lets out a rough groan as she takes his cock in her hands, pumping him, making draco instantly moan her name as her innocent eyes watch his every movement.

she looks up at him, smiling and slowly throating his balls completely, making him groan even more as his hand clutch around the satin sheets.

"fuck- y/n, feels s-so good" her name repeatedly left his lips every time she swirled her tongue around his balls, then to his roughened tip.

she bobbed her head in a circular motion, holding down a steady pace, hollowing her cheeks, pulling him deeper in her mouth.

"fuck y/n, just like that j-just keep going", she swirls her tongue around his cock, sucking on his tip each time she slightly came up. her hand began pumping the rest of his cock that couldn't fit into his mouth, making sure every part of him was fulfilled with pleasure.

he began slowly bucking his hips, making her softly gag. she noticed his cock twitched in her mouth as she began hollowing her cheeks and sucking deeper, her hand moving to his balls and massaging them, helping him reach his high.

he let out a low whimper of her name as his warm milky ropes shot down her throat, leaving his legs slightly trembling. y/n whimpered as she pulls her mouth away, adoring the sight of draco's cock leaking as clear white ropes piled around the pair.

she smiles at him, unzipping her skirt, and slowly unbuttoning her corset, her full breasts flowing out of it. his pupils widened at the view in front of him, admiring every detail.

"god y/n, you're absolutely beautiful, all this for me?", his hands began roaming down her body, admiring her, taking in every detail possible.

she starts grinding her now bare cunt on his still hard cock, earning a soft whimper from the boy she was now straddling. his hands grasped around her waist, guiding her around his cock, which now was covered with her lubricating juices.

"sit back f'me dray", she insisted. she slowly began pumping his cock, lining his tip against hers, slowly sinking down on it.

they both became undone as a moaning mess, filling each other perfectly.

“mhm.. fuck- you’re so big draco.. you fill me up so good inside”

she starts slowly adjusting, now softly bouncing against his cock, resting her hands against draco's chest as she throws her head back in pleasure, squeezing her eyes shut in pleasure.

“fuck, you’re so tight around me y/n, y'taking me so well”, draco praises, his hands grasping around her waist tighter.

"you like this dray?", she leaned close into his ear, making him shutter at her tone.

'y-yes mommy" his breath hitched, whimpering at y/n suddenly controlling her pace and going faster, her walls now hugging his cock with every movement.

y/n began placing soft lovebites across his neck, finding his sweet spot causing draco to softly whimper.

she gently wraps her hand across his throat, choking him lightly, making draco whine. she pulled him closer, capturing her lips on his muffled moans.

she quickly broke this kiss with a loud whimper, screaming out his name as every thrust brushed her g-spot.

“shit.. you feel so good inside me dray, m' so close”

she rolled her hips faster by every second around his cock, her tits jolted with every movement, his mouth latching softly on them.

"fuck- never felt this good mommy" his breath hitched as he felt his cock twitch around her walls, indicating the both of them were close to their high.

"cum for mommy, baby", y/n rolled her hips around him faster, tightening her grip across his chest.

draco's moan filled the room, moaning her name without caring who was even around as his warm ropes filled inside her.

y/n let go completely, cumming over his cock as her walls remained clenching around him.

both of them pant heavily, as the room filled with nothing but the summer heat, they were both a mess with visions blurring.

"fuck, i've been wanting that for so long love" draco said, softly caressing her cheek.

y/n giggles, "happy birthday dray" she smiled at him tiredly, pressing loving kisses over his face.

a/n. i made this all in class ahhhkijsijk.

[luciferlightbringer]

Love in a Hopeless Place

Chapter 10

Chapter 9|Chapter 10|Chapter 11|Updated through Chapter 12

Lucifer x prostitute fem!reader Word Count: 3.6k CW: Slowburn, Angst, Prostitution, Hurt/comfort, trauma, fluff, depression, anxiety, insecurity,

Over the next couple of days, Charlie and the hotel crew started to prepare for their little "intervention" dinner with her dad. Charlie and Vaggie worked together to make up dinner while the others made sure the place was kept up, mostly Niffty.

Later that night, Charlie heard a knock on the front door. Was that him? Why didn't he just teleport in like usual? Charlie went to open the door and saw Lucifer giving his big focused smile.

"Charlie! It's so good to see you," he said enveloping his daughter in a big hug. It had been weeks since he had hugged anyone, the sting of how much he missed it had started to grow back.

"Hi Dad," Charlie said hugging her father back tightly and swinging him around. "I've missed you so much, it's been weird not having you around as much."

Lucifer tightened his grip on Charlie as they hugged, "I'm- sorry about that sweetie, I just... got busy. I'll try to be better about that, I promise."

Charlie loosened the hug enough to study her dad's face, it was tired and worn out, he looked like he hadn't slept in days. Lucifer tried hard to keep his facade up, but he knew his daughter was trying to read him.

"Dad... are you sure you are ok?" Charlie asked with concern.

"Yes. Why do you ask?" he said still trying to hold a smile, holding a silence but futile prayer that he could find a way to fool her into thinking he was ok.

The other members of the hotel, Angel, Husk, Niffty, Cherri, Vaggie, even Alastor started to walk in from the shadows of the hotel lobby.

"Cuz, with all due respect your highness," Husk chimed in "One, you are a bad liar, two, we actually do care about you," Husk looked over to Alastor out of the side on his eye, "well... most of us care about you, and three... we are also worried about (y/n)."

"Ya!" Angel added in, "You two were a couple of peas in a pod, she was even talkin' 'bout wantin' to move in here, den 'poof', ya both are nowhere ta be seen fa' weeks. What gives?! I thought we mattered to you guys!"

"Ya! I miss you and our girl, where is she?!" Cherri pipped in, "We loved watching you two hangin' out here togetha."

"She was a bad girl! But she was really nice! I liked when she would listen to me talk about my bugs fights!" Niffty added, holding up her knife.

Alastor sighed, "Honestly, I'm mostly here for the entertainment of your sorrow... but (y/n) was important to the growth of the hotel and it's community. Plus, she amuses me. I had grown unfortunately fond of her charms," Alastor said with a wicked smile, his comment made the room pause a moment, Lucifer glared at him.

"We miss both of you, sir, it's just not the same here without you. We just kinda feel like we've been left in the dark," Vaggie added, rubbing her arm.

Lucifer sighed, he didn't realize just how much you had meant to not just Charlie, but to the entire hotel. That you guys together had been. It was important for them to know the truth.

"Ok, ok... I'll tell you the truth... but it isn't going to be pretty," Lucifer said with shame painting his face. Lucifer went to go sit on the couch and the others came to sit around him and listen to the story. Lucifer gave an abbreviated story of the last several months of his time with you, truth that you were actually a prostitute he had hired, the story with how it all started with the conversation with Ozzie, the first appointment and the chaos and joy that cam from it, how you had helped him to connect with Charlie and the hotel again, how you supported either other through the stresses of the war with Heaven, how he protected you, how he realized he had fallen in love with you, and then the last night you were together, the blur and confusion of it all, and how finally you had banned him from being able to be scheduled with you again and how you had been told that the whole dynamic was just her acting like she cared about him. He didn't blame or try to paint you in a bad light, he was just defeated and sad.

During the story, the group went through a series of emotions, all of them now understanding why you had not able to talk about your relationship with him at all.

"Damn it! No wonder I liked her so much! She's in da same industry as me!" shouted Angel when the story was over, "She felt so kindred and I couldn't fuckin' see it. Oh, she is good."

"So... none of your relationship was real?" Charlie asked, sadly.

Lucifer shook his head, "No... no I don't think it was."

Husk shook his head, "You're wrong." Everyone looked at him. "Something here doesn't add up, Angel, Cherri, you remember our conversation with (y/n) the night before the war with heaven?" They nodded, Husk looked at Lucifer, "The only lie I have ever seen (y/n) tell you was that she was sad that night because of the war, which... she still was... but the reason she was sad before you came over to check on her was because she was sad that she could not be honest with us about your guy's relationship. We had asked her about what was up because you guys seemed more than friends, and she told us she could not talk about it. And she has tried to bluff some things about how she presents herself before when we first met her, probably all just to protect the secret you guys had. Trust me when I say, she was never fake with how much I saw she cared about you."

Lucifer shrugged, "It doesn't seem to matter though it though... in the end, she banned me."

"Why?" asked Angel, "Did she tell you? Did you ever hurt her?"

"No. Someone else at the place she works called me and told me, she was gone or... something. I don't know if I hurt her, never physically, but I was so drunk at the end of our last night together... I don't know what I did or why I got banned... and I'd never want to cross a boundary like that... she's had too many fucked up people in her life... I don't want to add to that club any more than I already had," he buried his face in his hands, "it sounds like keeping the secret was already a lot of weight on her, I didn't realize..."

"King, listen, I've been in the sex business for a long time, nothin' about this situation makes sense ta me, both from a sex worka' standpoint or from what I know about her. Did you pay her well?" Angel ask inquisitively.

Lucifer nodded, "Ya, I gave her big tips too, I wanted to to be happy and get what she needed."

"No good sex worka' in their right mind would full on ban you for one weird night, even if you did rough 'em up a bit. You told us there was some other client that had been roughin' her up a bit that you took care of. Tell me, did she ban him on the first night of havin' any issues with him?" Angel asked. Lucifer shook his head, starting to think about Angel's words.

"Right. So unless she was stupid, which I know she aint, she wouldn't've cut off probably the best paycheck in hell just because you had one sloppy drunk night where something may have gone weird. Also, on top a dat, sex worka's can be good actors and can pretend like they care. But they try not to get attached, and like Husker said earlier, she got attached, and boy it was obvious. That's probably a big reason why I didn't sus her out sooner. By da time we met her, nothin' about ya relationship was actin' anymore, on either side. Cuz you love 'er, dontcha?" Angel pointed while he leaned back on the couch.

Everyone looked at Lucifer, he nodded, "I do, I love her."

Angel nodded, "And you would do anythin' to make 'er happy, including keepin' yourself away from her if you thought it would make her happier, isn't dat right?"

Lucifer started to tear up, "Yes..." Charlie started to tear up and hugged her dad.

"Therefore... there is something fishy happenin' here, there must be some form of miscommunication, or... a third party that likes messin' with shit," Angel looked up at the ceiling thinking.

"How do you know all this?" asked Vaggie suspiciously. Angel looked over at Vaggie and have her a sly smile, "When you're life was spent in da Mafia and your afterlife was spent around shitty desperate sex worka's that are dying to get a taste of your success by any means necessary, you pick up on a few things, baby."

Charlie perked up, "You think someone at her work did this?"

Angel shrugged, "It's very possible, not 100%, but it's possible. Lucifer, did (y/n) ever talk about having any issues with other girls at her workplace?"

Lucifer thought a moment, "Hmm... she mentioned there being some annoying girls that she some sometimes needed to put in their place, but nothing this crazy hostile. But then again, she didn't like talking about the Lounge much, and I didn't like asking because I started to get more sad whenever I was reminded that I was just a client to her."

"The Lounge, like the Luxurious Lady's Lounge in the Entertainment district?" asked Angel.

"Ya... you know it?" asked Lucifer.

Angel smiled, "Know it? Ha! Sure do. I know exactly where it is too. May have even seen 'er once or twice without knowin' it"

Charlie smiled at her dad, "Dad, if we know where she is, we should just go and talk to her!"

Lucifer shook his head, "Oh. No, no, nonononono, Charlie... I can't do that."

"Why not? Dad, come on, we can try clearing all this up!" Charlie pleaded.

Lucifer sighed, "I just... until I know for sure that she didn't actually ban me, I won't want to risk that. It's just not a good idea... Plus, I don't want to attract more attention to her if she is having issues there," Lucifer hung his head.

Charlie thought for a minute, then a lightblub went off, Charlie got down to Lucifer's eye level, "Dad, she may have "banned" you for seeing her... but not me! I could go talk to her!"

"Charlie, hold on, dis is a bad idea," Angel piped up, everyone looked at him confused, "Rememba' what happened when you tried to talk to Val for me?" Charlie thought for a second remembering the disaster that was, feeling the guilt return at the memory. Angel smiled, "Obviously I need to go with you!" The room erupted into laughter, Angel almost had them for a second, even Lucifer managed to crack a smile in his down mood.

"You guys are really willing to do this for me?" he asked looking to Charlie and Angel.

Charlie looked at Angel and back to her dad, and grabbed Lucifer's hands, "Yes, for you... and for us."

Lucifer smiled, "Ok... but can we actually have dinner before you go? I was anticipating an actual dinner instead of an intervention, but I guess I should have expected both." The room filled with laughter again and the group set up for dinner before Charlie and Angel would head out to find the Lounge, and more importantly, you.

______________________________________________________________

Later that evening, you were hanging out in the lobby of the Lounge, the same way that you had the nights before Lucifer had started to take up more of your schedule. You were still getting clients, but it was back to the old torturous monotony as before, but it somehow felt worse now that you had gotten a taste of love... or what you thought had been love. Every client made you wish you were back in Lucifer's arms, wanting to explore Lucifer's body... not this shithole and all it's shitty clients.

You felt yourself grow more bitter as you saw Cynthhhhia grow back in popularity with the customers, it seemed her few days on the phones really scared her into staying in her lane, especially because Larry had apparently made her take all of the calls during those three days. Something did not sit right with you about her more recent success, but you didn't want to turn into another her. Plus, the happier she was, the more she left you alone. Guess there had to be a bright side, somewhere.

You were sitting on your favorite couch in a long, blue, shear, flowy robe, when you saw a tall pair of individuals walk into the lobby. But not just any two tall people, two that you recognized, Angel and Charlie. You eyes went wide, and you quickly slinked off to the dressing room to hide.

'What the hell? What are they doing there?!' you thought to yourself. You hoped they hadn't seen you, even though your time with Lucifer was up, you still wanted to keep his secret about the two of you.

Charlie and Angel walked up to the front counter where Larry was standing he did a double-take seeing both of them.

"Whoooaaa, Princess Morningstar! And the famous Angel Dust! What an honor to have you two in to join us this evening. Are we interested in having a little fun tonight? I am surprised, I didn't think one of Val's best boys would be needin' to pay for fun. Unless... you are looking for a change in employment?" He flashed a sharp smile.

Charlie piped up, "Hi! Uhh, Charlie is just fine. And no, neither of those things. We are here looking for one of your girls, (y/n)."

"Is she here tonight?" Angel added.

"Uhh... ya. What business do you have with her?" Larry asked, wondering how they knew her.

"She's a friend ah mine," Angel chimed in, "She's mean MIA for a few weeks and we have been worried about 'er, we were wantin' to check in on her. Charlie has gotten to know her a little too and wanted to come with."

"Can we pleaseee see her?" Charlie pleaded.

Larry thought for a moment, "I don't know, she is still on the clock for several more hours. I can't just let her off early." Charlie and Angel look at each other and nod, Charlie pulls out an bunch of cash, "Will this cover her for the rest of the night." Larry smiled as the amount of money in her hands, it was more than enough.

"I do believe that will work Ms. Mornin- uhh, Charlie," Larry said taking the cash, "Let me go get her." Charlie is glad that she learned that in some situations like this, money talked more than words or power. She came more prepared than she had with her conversation with Valentino over getting more of Angel's time.

Larry searched around before finding you in the dressing room, "Hey Babydoll, you've been bought out for the rest of the night by some friends of yours, Angel Dust and Charlie Morningstar. I didn't know you knew them." He said giving you a look.

They bought you out for the rest of the night? Did they come here specifically to find you? How did they know you were here? Did... did Lucifer tell them? You felt some fear and hope bloom in your chest.

"Oh, haha ya, you know me, I'm just not one to talk about my personal life at work," you gave Larry a big smile. He laughed, "Alright, keep your secrets, sounds like they wanted to talk to you about something, worried about you. Go show 'em a good time tonight, ok?" You nodded, and quickly switching out to a more solid less see-through robe, before walking out to the lobby.

Angel and Charlie saw you coming, Charlie ran to you but you stopped her short of you, "Not here, come with me," and you led your friends up to you apartment. Once you were inside you room and the door was locked, you said "Ok now you can hug me if you want to."

This time, both Charlie and Angel want to embrace you at the same time, starting to tear up a little.

"Oh my god, (y/n)! It's so good to see you! We were so worried about you!" Charlie asked.

"Ya! When you and Lucifer stopped showing up at the hotel to visit, we started worrying, babe," Angel added.

"Wait... hold up, Lucifer stopped showing up to the hotel? How did you know I was here?" you asked.

"We sat my Dad down and he finally broke and told us the truth about everything," Charlie said.

"Ya, he spilled da beans on your guy's relationship, you don't have to keep his secret from us anymore," Angel added.

Tears started to well up in your eyes, "I don't?!" The two nodded. You started to sob and hugged them back. "I- I'm so sorry, I- I didn't want to lie to anyone but he wanted to keep it discreet, which I understand, he is the King! And it was so confusing, and then, one night he got really drunk one night, and it worried me, he wasn't acting like himself, and told me he loved me, but, but I didn't know if I could believe him. And he was getting all touchy and doe eyed, and I didn't know what was really what he wanted because it was all so sudden. So I ran! I ran because I was so scared, and- and- and-" Charlie and Angel both hugged you and tried to shushed you through your crying.

"It's ok, no one is mad at you. That sounds like a hard position to be in, it sounds like there was a lot of confusion on both sides," Charlie said.

"Confusion?" you sniffled, "Is that why he hasn't called to schedule with me again?"

Charlie and Angel looked at each other then back to you, "You didn't ban him then?"

You blinked, "WHAT?! Why on earth would anyone think I blocked him?! No! I freaked out and went on a trip for a few days to clear my head. I came back and I was told that he said he would call to reschedule, and then he just never did! I thought he hated me!"

"No!" Charlie cried, "No, Oh my god, he is a total wreck without you! He misses you like crazy! He thinks he was put on your "No Kiss List" or something"

"We can't even say your name without him shuttin' down and lookin' like we killed his dog or somethin'," Angel added, Charlie gave him a look, "What?! It's true!"

You sat down on the couch and stared out for a minute, thinking, "Why didn't he come to ask me himself?"

Charlie shrugged, "He doesn't remember what happened that night, he is convinced that he hurt you terribly and that it's why you banned him. He didn't want to hurt you so he respected that wish. We tried to get him to come tonight but he was scared in case you really had banned him."

You thought for a few more moments, who could have caused this? Who would have done this to you both. Your eyes widened. No, could this have been... did Cynthhhhia do this? Would she have been the one to make the calls that day since that was her punishment. You were pretty sure, but you didn't want to act without proof. You clenched your fists, starting to fill with rage.

"Is he at the hotel?" They nodded. You thought again, "Can you take me to him?" They nodded again with more excitement.

"I have just one question for you, before we go," Charlie started, looking into your eyes, "Tell me truthfully, do you actually care about my dad, not just for an income, but as a person?"

You took Charlie's hands in your own, "Charlie, I really do... more than anything... in fact... I'm pretty sure I'm in love with him." Charlie and Angel squealed and jumped up and down.

"That's all I needed to hear, let's do this!" Charlie declared.

You took a few minutes to get dressed, and soon you were off to see Lucifer again. Cynthhhhia eyed you a little as you left, wondering what you were doing with the most famous porn star in the Pride Ring and the Princess of Hell. She rolled her eyes and went back to chatting it up with her next client out it the lobby, it was probably nothing of substance, and she already had big enough fish to fry to keep her focused on herself. Although, she did briefly amuse herself with the idea of seducing the Princess' father, oh how wonderful a dream that would be, but she knew better than to put more thought into that. Why would the King of Hell ever need a prostitute? She laughed to herself.

You, on the other hand, were so full of fear and excitement at the idea of seeing actually Lucifer again, it felt like a dream and you were scared to wake up. But if Charlie and Angel's reaction was any indication of anything, maybe Brooklyn had been right after all.

______________________________________________________________

Thank you for putting up with torment! I made sure to get through this one quickier so that there was a return of hope. Next chapter they will finally talk in out, and then... a certain someone may see justice 😈

As usual, leave a comment if you want added to the taglist so that you can get notifications when future chapters drop! xoxo, dany (OMG there are so many of you!😍 Please let me know if the tag isn't working for you) Taglist :(red names are not tagging for some reason 😢)

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[callme-holly]

𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 [𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 !𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐬 𝐱 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫]

𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫'𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞 - is this more of a comfort fic for myself bc i've been stressed? yes. yes it is. i swear i'll get to my requests soon. in the meantime check out my characterai and i beg y'all send me bot requests pretty please <33

𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 - 993 words

𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - none

The air outside was crisp and cold, a slight breeze sweeping through, carrying along with it the mid-october breeze that you had grown so used to. The trees lining the football field had long since lost their leaves, which now decorated the grass with various hues of yellows, oranges, browns, and reds.  

They crunch beneath your feet as you make your way to the bleachers, arms wrapped tightly around your middle in an attempt to preserve some warmth, and you find yourself suddenly wishing you’d worn a little more than just a thin sweater before you’d left the house. 

Out on the field, there’s only one other person, and the sight of them alone brings a smile to your lips, a fond look in your eye as you make your way onto the benches, perching yourself on the edge of one, just beside his open duffle bag. He doesn’t see you at first, too caught up in tying off his shoe laces, and you can’t help but admire the way the sun illuminates his features, the rays catching on the strands of dark hair flopping over his forehead, his brows furrowed in concentration. 

When he does look up, however, his gaze instantly locks onto yours, those piercing blue-green eyes that you’ve come to love so dearly flashing with recognition as he grins softly, the corners of his eyes crinkling as he does so. You return it, just as bright, just as warm, and you can’t help but shake your head fondly as he jogs towards you, crossing the distance of the pitch and pausing just infront of you, arms crossed over his chest.

“What’re you doing out here?” Darry’s voice is laced with affection, and despite his question, you know full well that he wouldn’t want you anywhere else but here, with him. “Don’t you have a class or something?”  

You offer nothing but a small shrug in response, shifting slightly as another breeze ruffles your hair, the chill biting at your skin and causing the goosebumps along your arms to break out into full bloom and a faint blush to creep across your cheeks. You tug at the sleeves of your sweater, tucking your legs up underneath you and resting against the backrest of the bench, hoping that the action will alleviate at least a bit of cold wracking your form. 

“It’s nothing I haven’t heard already,” you respond after a moment, tilting your head slightly. “Just some catch-up lesson for science.”

Darry nods his head slowly, the slightest hint of a smirk on his face. “And you just so happened to choose this particular lesson to skip, huh?” It’s teasing, a tone of incredulity dripping from every word, and it causes your cheeks to burn again, however this time the cold is not to blame. He smirks wider when your silence confirms his suspicions, moving to sit beside you, digging through his bag and pulling out his water bottle, the contents no doubt ice cold by now. He offers it to you wordlessly, watching with amusement as you take a hesitant sip, afraid to drink too much and leave him with too little, but also conscious of the fact that you’re still freezing, and anymore cool water might push you over the edge. 

“Here,” you mumble once you’ve finished, passing the bottle back to him and scooting closer to press your side against his, leaning your head upon his shoulder as you do so. The heat the radiates from him sends a pleasant shiver down your spine, and it feels as though every part of you relaxes completely at the contact. He hums gently, and you’re certain he’s smiling as he wraps an arm around you, holding you against him, as if sensing the chill that has settled in your bones. 

“You really that cold?” He muses, though there's a hint of concern laced in his tone, hand rubbing up and down your arm slowly. You lean into the touch, relishing in the soothing warmth it provides, like a blanket, cocooning you away from the breeze blowing through the trees around you. His fingers are soft and calloused, and they press against your arm gently, drawing circles against your sweater, a slow and gentle massage. 

“A little,” You answer, closing your eyes briefly, enjoying the comfort of his embrace. “But I’ll be okay. Just not used to it not being summer anymore, you know?"

Darry chuckles lowly at your answer, squeezing your arm lightly. “Yeah, no kidding. Don't think you woulda left your house dressed like that otherwise.” 

He shifts slightly, moving so that he can see you better, tilting his head slightly. “You want my jacket?” He nods to where it's slung over the empty bench beside you, discarded whilst he’d been stretching. 

Your fingers itch to take it, to snatch it away and bury yourself in the thick fabric that is probably much to large for you. But something stops you, and you tilt your head curiously at him.

“What about you?” You retort, arching an eyebrow, and he rolls his eyes good naturedly.

“I dont need it, darlin'. Unlike some people, I know how to dress appropriately when it comes to fall.” He reaches over to grab the jacket in question, his other arm not moving from around you as he does so, and you watch in slight fond exasperation as he unfolds it and slips it over you, the scent of fresh laundry and his cheap colonge surrounding you. You don't fight it, allowing him to settle it around your shoulders, wrapping you up tightly in the fabric, an impossibly tender look spready across his face.

“There.” He hums, pulling back just far enough to look down at you, dropping a quick kiss to your temple, smiling against your skin. “Perfect.”

And as he pulls you into his side once more, his hand trailing idly up and down your side, you find that you couldn’t agree more.

[weirdkpopgirl]

Forever | Jaemin Imagine #13

Title: Forever

Genre: Tooth-rotting fluff ><

Warnings: light making out

Word Count: ~1k

Author's Note: Yet another story of mine that was inspired by my admiration for Jaemin. Trust me, I've liked a lot of k-pop guys. But for some reason, Jaemin stands out the most to me. Maybe because he's my ideal type. But every time I see him, I find something that makes my heart beat faster. I wonder if that's what falling in love feels like? Anyway, hope you guys like this. Thank you for reading ^ ^

˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗

The Totoro lamp on the accent table next to the television cast a soft glow that warmed the living room of your once lonely apartment. Cozied up at the edge of the gray loveseat, you sat with your knees pulled close to your chest, allowing your thoughts to wander as they often did past 10 p.m. However, those thoughts were interrupted by the light padding sound of slippers against the wooden floor panels. Soon after, the couch cushion next to you sank under added weight. 

Then you felt the arms of your beloved wrap his arms snugly around your waist, and his warm lips planted a lingering kiss on your cheek without wasting another second. “Missed you,” he whispered, his voice slightly tickling your ear.

The corners of your lips curled into a fond smile, and you turned into his embrace so you could face the sweet man properly. You nestled comfortably between his legs, letting your hand naturally find its way to the back of his neck while your other hand brushed against the left side of his face. 

“I missed you too, Nana,” you murmured, tenderly caressing his cheek. He leaned into your touch instantly, savoring it.

The simple action was enough to stir a flurry of emotions within you. In the brief moments of silence that passed, you studied your handsome boyfriend as if searching for any changes that might have occurred in the three weeks you had been apart. Other than his white-blond hair having grown longer so quickly after cutting it, you didn’t find any significant changes. Jaemin’s big beautiful eyes were as captivating as ever, complemented by his flirtatiously long eyelashes. His dark eyebrows were still perfectly arched, framing his expressive eyes, and his soft pink lips retained their subtle, endearing pout.

A small sigh from you couldn’t be suppressed, the sight of him having the same effect on you as always. Although, deep down you knew his kind-hearted personality made him even more attractive in your eyes. 

“What’s on your mind, princess?” Jaemin asked in his dreamy deep voice that carried a mellowness at night. His eyes held a curiosity to them, and he didn’t need to say anything for you to know he was referring to your earlier distraction.

You hesitated for a second, before responding. “I was just thinking about relationships.”

Checking Jaemin’s reaction before continuing, you saw that his attention remained fully captured on you. The way he listened intently made your heart flutter so easily, a feeling you couldn’t quite explain.

“You know, I was watching YouTube before bed the other day,” you began to explain. “And I came across a few shorts about couples talking about how the first year is supposed to be the honeymoon phase, and then they start arguing a lot in the second year and often break up.”

Jaemin nodded, a gentle smile tugging on his lips. “I see. What’s your take on that, love?”

Although you had the answer to his question in your head, it took a moment for you to piece it together.  “Hm, I don’t think there really should be a honeymoon phase. I mean, that’s not really the case for us.”

Almost instinctively, you glanced down at the diamond ring on your finger, its facets catching the light perfectly. A few days before Jaemin had to leave for Taipei with the Dreamies, he surprised you with a simple yet intimate proposal. 

“Sure, we’ve both had to work on some things,” you continued, fixing your gaze on him once more. “But even after two years together, you still make me feel like a giddy teenager with a huge crush.”

Jaemin chuckled, his laughter causing a blush to tinge your cheeks. You knew how silly your words sounded, but they reflected your true feelings. However, it was rare for you to verbally express this to him. Before any doubts about being this honest could creep in, Jaemin’s hand moved to lovingly brush a lock of hair behind your ear. 

“I feel exactly the same as you. Every day I discover something new I love about you, and every kiss we share feels just as special as our first,” he said sincerely.

A part of you sensed he said the last sentence as an excuse to kiss you, and sure enough, he leaned in to plant one on your lips shortly after. Even though you lost count of how many times Jaemin has kissed you, you could agree that all of them were cherishable.

Pulling away, you scrunched your nose slightly with a hint of skepticism in your voice. “Are we being too cheesy?”

If anyone had walked in and witnessed this, you were certain that they would cringe at hearing all the sweet, sappy things exchanged between the two of you. You could practically hear the fake gagging noises from his members.

“I’d like to think of it more as us being extra romantic,” Jaemin replied, wearing a playful smile that you secretly swooned over.

The conversation naturally faded into the background, as you lost yourselves in each other’s embrace once more. His lips moved against yours slowly, tenderly, without ever making you fear that he’d pull away anytime soon. One hand held your back securely, while the other gently cupped your face. Your fingers lightly ran through his light-colored strands as you melted into his touch.

“Gosh, I just want to marry you already,” Jaemin exhaled, a hint of sulkiness in his tone.

Despite his words causing you to blush profusely again, you relaxed into his arms and appreciated this quiet moment surrounded by love and warmth. Maybe you guys were pretty cheesy. But that didn’t make your feelings for each other any less real.

Being in love with Jaemin was a feeling you hoped would last forever.

˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗

previous masterlist -> current masterlist

[silverpetrichor]

My Love Is Mine All Mine

A/N: I know I’ve been MIA but the mania surrounding Gravity Falls right now has awoken me from my slumber. I’ve had a huge crush on Ford since I got into the series during the pandemic and I just had to write this.(I've also never written smut before so please forgive me if it's cringe.) I’ve never written him before, so forgive me if he’s a little (or a lot) OOC. As always constructive criticism is welcome and please enjoy! 

Last Summer. . .

You were helping your brother cook dinner for his heavily pregnant wife and 2 kids. Laughing and joking as your younger brother arrived with his husband, wine and dessert. It was shaping up to be another ordinary evening hanging out with your family when you got the call. 

Next thing you know you’re hugging your loved ones goodbye before opening a portal to the outskirts of Gravity Falls, Oregon. Staring up at the darkness enveloping the town that you’d only heard of in passing, watching on in horror before assisting the others in reinforcing the natural barriers around the town to keep it from spreading…  

“—Y/n! Earth to Y/n! Are you okay?” Your coworker asked as you looked up from where you had zoned out while shelving the new books.  

“Yeah? I um, I’m fine really. Just lost in thought for a second.” you respond. 

“Oh, okay. Well, I was just trying to tell you that it’s lunch time,” Tracy said, smiling up at you. 

You tilted your head to the side, brows furrowing “Geez, already?” you looked at your watch, and low and behold it was noon already.  

You cast one more glance to the book still in your hand, a post apocalyptic romance who’s cover had evoked memories of the centralized apocalypse that had taken place last summer in the seemingly innocuous town. You recall arguing with the council about actually getting involved and helping the town instead of just doing damage control. You didn’t like the stances they often took, and were preparing to go in despite their decision when all of a sudden the oppressive feeling of Bill’s presence vanished and with it your need to be there, standing sentry. 

Or, so you thought. Now, you have moved from the hustle and bustle of New York City to the quiet and peculiar little town of Gravity Falls. All because you dared to go against the council and nearly disobeyed them, you were now stuck as a librarian here indefinitely. Merely monitoring the situation and living in a cottage not too far from the Mystery Shack, hidden by magic and finally inhabited again after decades of going unused after the last council assigned witch moved.

You shook your head as if shaking off your thoughts, shelving the book in your hand and heading to the breakroom in the back where your homemade lunch sat in the fridge. 

You ate your lunch with Tracy in relative silence letting her do most of the talking. She was a sweet woman who was a few years older than you, in her early forties married with three rambunctious kids. She was also very talkative, which you didn’t mind despite being more introverted yourself. 

You never liked the quiet anyway, ironically enough even though you had moved out to a cottage in the woods, you always had music or something playing. You’d even gotten a fluffy pet cat a week before who moved out here who you dubbed Lady Arson the III. 

You’d actually grown fond of this little town despite being a city girl, this town had its own unique charm. Even though you had to chase some gnomes out and renew the old wards on the old cottage. (Thank the stars you had a magical ingredients supplier for the unicorn hair you needed. Unicorns are such stuck up assholes and if you never had to interact with one again it’d be too soon) You had redecorated the cottage and made it your own. You also found a nearby lake to go swimming in relative peace during the spring and summer.  

You talked for a while with Tracy as you found yourself having a bit of fun. While you missed the city there were plenty of things and people that made it worth it. Like your crush on your friend Ford Pines. . . 

He came to the library every other day or so in the afternoon sitting in the back alcove reading and writing in a journal with weathered pages. You’d actually managed to strike up a rapport with the man instead of hopelessly pining after him in silence. (Which you still did but you felt less pathetic when your hands would wander late at night when you couldn’t sleep)  

And, speaking of the devil, Ford was present with his teenage niece and nephew Mabel and Dipper. You found them in the back of the library searching the shelves for a book as you came around the corner to reshelve the last of the book on your cart. 

“Good afternoon Y/n!” Mabel excitedly stated, having noticed you first as her brother and grunkle were absorbed in searching the shelves. 

“Afternoon Pines family, what trouble have you gotten into today?” You greeted and asked, taking in their disheveled appearances as you raised a brow. 

“We were exercising a category five ghost in the woods near Fiddleford’s mansion when we encountered a hostile gremloblin!” Mable replied as her and Dipper shuddered in unison. 

You scanned them for injuries upon hearing this, before asking if they were okay. They nodded their assent before Mabel leaned in and whispered “But I’m pretty sure Grunkle Ford has a concussion or something.” 

Your eyebrows raise as you release your hold on the cart you’d been pushing. You tap Ford’s shoulder and he turns around, rather quickly almost stumbling. As he does you notice the gash on his forehead covered in Hello Kitty bandaids, that are clearly Mable’s work. But despite that you still see some red on the gauze the two bandaids are holding down. 

“Hello, beaut—I mean Y/n!” clears throat, while rubbing his head with his free hand, “How are you doing today?” Ford asks awkwardly, blushing. 

“Certainly better than you, you’re bleeding! Come with me.” You say, grabbing Ford’s hand after seeing the slightly dazed and unfocused look in his eyes and the bloody gauze on his hand. 

You pull him to the breakroom, the twins following. Ford huffing and blushing even harder at you holding his hand. You sit him at the table as the twins walk over to the vending machine drawn to the candy and chips in it respectively. 

You wash your hands quickly before going to bend and look under the sink and after a minute or two of rummaging around, pull out the new first aid kit that you’d brought to replace the old barely full one. Ford’s head tilts and his eyebrows raise as he mentally thanks the infinite cosmos for pencil skirts and the fact that you seem to love to wear them. 

When you stand straight he guiltily turns his head to the side, finding interest in the fake foliage and book themed posters hanging about. You raise a brow at his odd behavior, chalking it up to his concussion and head over after smoothing out your black pencil skirt. You walk over, heels clicking on the linoleum floor as you take off your colorful blazer before rolling up your white blouse sleeves.  

You open up the first aid kit with practiced efficiency after laying out a piece of paper towel from the roll in the middle of the table. You sanitize your hands quickly with an alcohol wipe before you gently pull the Hello Kitty bandages and gauze off his forehead. Apologizing quietly as Ford winces still, you move to grab the alcohol. You end up muttering another apology as he winces whilst you dab at the slightly deep cut with a soaked cotton ball.  

Ford’s face stays flushed as he realizes how close your chest is to his face. Trying his best to not make it obvious that he’s staring at you in that way. His eyes flicker to your face, focusing on how cute you look with your face scrunched up in concentration as you gently dab.   

While Ford struggles to be covert about his feelings you seem to be fairing slightly better with a barely there flush to your face. You place butterfly bandages on his forehead after dropping the alcohol soaked cotton ball onto the paper towel. 

You then gently grab his hand before unraveling the gauze, and dabbing at the cut with another alcohol soaked cotton ball. 

Mabel looks over, noticing the look in each other's eyes and Ford’s blushing face. A smirk falling over her face as she realizes what is happening, nodding to herself.

“Matchmaking time!” she whispers under breath before choking on a gummy kola. 

Dipper rolls his eyes as he slaps her back, the gummy kola flying out her mouth. Of which, she promptly picks up off the floor and eats much to Dipper's disgust. 

“So…Y/n huh? Do you. . .like her?” Mabel asks Ford as they leave the library, raising her eyebrows and smirking. 

Ford chuckles nervously, blushing furiously “What? I, I uh. . I have no idea what you’re talking about!!” He says, eyes shifting about nervously. 

“ Oh my gosh! Yes you do!! You love her! Love, love, love her!!” Mabel yelled, jumping up and down around him as the trio walked back to the Mystery Shack.   

“And I thought I sucked at hiding my feelings.” Dipper nudged Ford, laughing. 

Ford sighed, scratching the back of his neck as he nodded in defeat before telling Mabel to quiet herself despite no one being near. 

“Yes, I am very fond of Y/n. I find her to be endearing and enchanting in everything she does,” Ford muttered as he nervously laughed. 

“Well then Grunkle Ford, you should ask her out!! All the other blind dates I've tried to set her up on went nowhere!!” Mabel said as she skipped backwards in front of him and Dipper.  

“I don't know, I mean, aren't I too old for her? And I haven't really had any sort of  relationship in a while.” Ford muttered as the Mystery Shack came into view.  

“Trust me, Grunkle Ford! You got this! She's into nerd stuff like DD&MD! She's a librarian and she’s a historian!! And she likes listening to you rant about your research! Plus she's beautiful! It doesn't get any better than her!!” Mabel yelled as they sat on the couch outside the shack. 

“Yeah, in fact I know just what I need to do!!” Ford declared as he grabbed a graph journal full of blueprints for inventions out of one of his trenchcoat inner pockets.  

****** 

“This was a terrible idea,” Ford whispered as he hid from Flirt B0t 3000.  

“Wow, really who would've thought a robot built for romance would've been a terrible idea? Let's see, uh everyone!” Dipper harshly whispered back. 

“This is Giffany all over again,” Mabel sighs as she hands Ford her compact so he can check around the corner for Flirt B0t 3000. 

As he did so, the robot's half melted face snapped in their direction, its intact eye rolling to look at him through the mirror. 

“When I say run, you run as far and fast as your legs can take you and don’t look back,” Ford harshly whispers, tightening his grip on his gun. 

“But Grunkle Ford!! We can help!” Dipper responds as he clutches a crossbow in his hand. After Weirdmageddon, he’d asked Wendy to teach him how to use one. 

Before Ford could argue further, Stan came around the corner baseball bat in hand. “Take this you stupid robot!!” He screamed swinging his baseball bat, just as Flirt B0t 3000’s head turned to face him. 

It’s head flies clear off, Dipper shooting it with his crossbow as it flies in front of him. Stan beat the headless body repeatedly until it stopped twitching and was nothing but a pile of mangled metal and wires. 

“Grunkle Stan!! How’d you know we needed help?” Mabel asked as she ran up to him, hugging him. 

Stan let out a small “oof” upon impact before explaining “Well, when Ford mentioned making a robot to practice asking out Y/n with and then none of you picked up the phone when I called, I figured it went horribly wrong. And would you look at that, I was right!” Stan kicked the robot's remains once more.   

“Thank you Grunkle Stan!! But did you see that shot!?” Dipper asked, laughing. 

“Sure did kid! Wendy's one hel-heck of a teacher ain't she?” He asked, giving Dipper a noogie. 

“Yeah!” Dipper agreed, grunting as he tried to get out of his head lock.

Stan released him before walking over to Ford and popping him upside the head. 

“What was that for Stanley?” Ford cried out rubbing the back of his head. 

“You know for someone so smart you sure can be a real dumbass sometimes. I may not be the best at romance or reading signals but even I can tell that you and her like each other. So for God's sake just ask her out already!” Stan harshly whispered to Ford as he gave him a hug. 

“Yeah, you're right. I mean the worst she can say is no right? Oh God what if she says no? I don't think I can do this!” Ford panicked, pacing. 

“Look Poindexter! You got this, you're the total package, even with those sideburns! Just take a deep breath and go ask her out before you lose your nerve,” Stan said, nudging Ford.

Ford ran out of his laboratory in the basement and headed for the library. 

“Ten bucks says he chickens out,” Stan says, waving at Ford's retreating figure. 

The young twins sigh in unison, shaking their heads at Stan's antics. 

******

Since Ford had awkwardly asked you out that first time a little over a month ago, you’d been spending almost all of your time together. Flowers from Ford littered your cottage and desk at work, and Ford would often have smudges of your dark red lipstick on his face. Even Lady Arson the III approved of him, and she never seemed to like any of your dates. You were both falling hard and fast for one another. 

But you still hadn’t told him about the whole you being a witch thing. Afraid of losing him, even if he was a lover of the supernatural you didn’t know if he still would, once you tell him the truth. You haven’t felt this way about someone since college. But every time you thought about telling him, you chickened out. 

Tonight though, you were going to have a picnic on the hill near your cottage and Ford was going to bring a telescope so you could stargaze. After mentioning to him how you loved astronomy but only ever got to see the stars in textbooks and online since you grew up in New York.  

You hoped nothing paranormal would interrupt your date, seeing as you were planning on finally telling him about your powers maybe. But of course, you just had to say it out loud. 

And well, now here you are in your cute floral sundress and cardigan fighting a very hostile spirit after it had attacked you and Ford while you were skipping stones at the nearby lake. Ford almost cracked his head on the rocks when he stumbled back in shock, at hearing the haunting childlike laughter reaching into his trench coat for holy water.  The category four spirit took this as an opportunity to attack, its cute face morphing into that of horror as it rushed towards the two of you.   

But then much to his surprise, you shoved him behind you before raising your hands and suddenly it slammed against a forcefield you had seemingly created if your glowing hands were any indication. Then a blast of blue light emanated from your open raised palms and the spirit froze before evaporating into thin air.

You sighed in relief before lowering your hands and wiping your brow. You then turned and began kissing Ford's face, pecking all about after you checked him over for injuries.You finally pull away when you feel satisfied with Ford’s blushing disposition. 

“Thank the stars you're okay! I can't believe we stumbled upon a hostile spirit all the way out here. My wards and presence usually keep stuff like this from happening,” you said sighing deeply. 

Ford stuttered his brain attempting to reboot after seeing you use your powers and you kissing his face so much,”Your wards, as in magic? Magic that I just saw you use. Why didn’t you tell me?” he questioned as she paced in front of him, running his fingers through his hair. 

“Well, I—” you cut yourself off sighing deeply. “My being a witch isn’t exactly an ice breaker that I bring up on dates. You know how I haven’t had a serious relationship since college? It ended when she found out I was a witch and since then I just have gotten used to hiding that side of myself from anyone that didn’t already know. So yeah, I’m sorry I didn’t tell you I just didn’t want to scare you off because I’m falling for you and I think I might actually even be in love with yo—” Ford cuts you off, grabbing you by the back of your neck and kissing you passionately. 

You stutter, before humming into the kiss. Cupping his face in your hands as one of his hands makes its way to your waist.  You have matching goofy smiles as you pull away for breath resting your foreheads against one another. 

“You could never scare me off because in case you couldn’t tell, I’m in love with you too, darling.” he whispered softly to you, staring into your eyes as you bit your lip bashfully. 

You could feel the heat flushing your face as you felt him pull you closer. In the moonlight, you could see that he was blushing fiercely. You kiss him deeply, opening a portal behind you as you pull him backwards. 

You trip and fall right onto your bed at the cottage, much to Ford’s shock as he pulls away from you. He looks around baffled. 

“Fascinating! You can create portals? I knew that witches existed but I didn't know you could do that!! What else can you do?” Ford asked excitedly as he began to sit up reaching for his journal.  

You followed, grabbing his trench coat lapels, kissing him and flipping him to his back. Ford’s hands went slack, his focus recentered on you as you pulled away with a self satisfied smirk.   

“We can have a Q & A later, right now I’m more interested in other things,” Y/n breathed out before grinding on Ford's lap, feeling his hardness grow underneath you. 

Ford blinked, swallowing as he let out a whine at your continued movement. You kissed his lips again before muttering a soft “Off,” lifting the hem of his turtleneck. He eagerly obliged–almost knocking you in the face if not for your quick reflexes–practically ripping off his trench coat and turtleneck and flinging them across the room. You pulled your cardigan off as you admired his slightly pudgy and hairy physique before running your hands up his hairy yet muscular arms.  

He moaned as you ground down on him again, gripping the back of his neck as you clung to him. You giggled into his mouth, kissing him before standing to remove your sundress and flats. Ford followed suit, kicking off his combat boots and damn near ripping his pants and underwear as he pulled them off. Almost tumbling to the ground as he did so, causing you to both giggle. Until he looked up at you, breath catching at the sight of you still in your matching black lace bra and panty set.

He surges forward, kissing you like a man possessed and kneading your ass. You moan into his mouth, as you feel your panties dampen with your arousal. You feel his hard cock standing at attention, smearing precum onto your stomach. 

Before you know it, Ford has you lying on the bed kissing a trail down to the apex of your thighs. He lingers at your chest, sucking at your nipples through the lace before removing the barrier entirely. You shudder at the attention he gives your nipples, sucking one and rolling the other in his hand. 

You whine as he releases his grip on your chest and his mouth moves south. He teasingly kisses your aching clit and nips at your thighs before slowly pulling down your underwear. 

You buck your hips slightly at the feeling of his breath on your now exposed cunt. 

“Gorgeous,” you hear him whisper before diving in and eating you out like you were his last meal.  

You mewl as he laps at your folds before latching onto your clit and sucking. You buck your hips and whimper as you attempt to shut your legs. Ford pins your right thigh with one hand before moving to open you up with his other. 

You gasp and grasp at his hair roughly when you feel his index finger at your entrance before slowly sinking into you. You moan loudly, whining as he thrusts his finger in and out before adding another. Your eyes slam shut as your back arches at the feeling. 

He scissors his fingers briefly before he makes a come hither motion with his fingers. You begin to shake, your heels digging into his back from where your legs have been perched over Ford's shoulders. 

You whimper out a soft “oh fuck,” the only warning Ford receives before you're cumming all over his face. Whining and moaning as he fingers you and sucks at your clit through your high, moaning into your cunt. Which triggers another harsher orgasm as you sob out, pushing Ford's face away. 

You look down at him between your thighs, his face flushed and glasses askew as he kisses your thighs. As if to apologize for the accidental overstimulation, your chest heaving and thighs twitching still as you smooth out his messy hair. 

You sit up and pull Ford's mouth to yours by the nape of his neck. Kissing and licking into his mouth roughly, tasting yourself on his tongue. He moans into your mouth cupping your face gently. 

You both pull away to breathe, foreheads pressed together. “Are you sure you're up for more?” Ford questions against your lips. 

You smirk as you reach down to grab his cock, stroking its ruddy head. “Oh, I'm just getting started baby boy” you whisper in his ear as he whimpers in yours. 

You flip your positions again, spreading your thighs over his as you position yourself over his cock. Grasping his cock and guiding it towards your entrance, your other hand gripping the sheets by Ford's head. You moan in unison as you sink down his thick cock, gasping when you're fully seated. 

Ford whines as you begin to ride him, slowly at first before gaining a rough rhythm. You pin his hands above his head as he gasps at the sudden move.  Moaning loudly as you nip and lick at his neck, his eyes rolling back. 

You giggle sinfully in his ear, before moaning as he flips you onto your back. Ford grips your hips “My turn,” he growls out before beginning a punishing rhythm that has you crying out once more, tears streaming down your face. 

Your hands grip the sheets before clawing at Ford's back, causing him to moan, and move a hand to grip at the bedspread. 

“Fuck!! I'm close, are you there yet darling?” Ford pants out. 

It takes you a minute to speak coherently, gasping out “Inside, cum inside me! I need it, please” you manage to babble out through your tears.  

“Shit,” Ford hisses, moving to rub at your clit in rough circles. 

You whine and cry out Ford’s name as you writhe, your grip on Ford adjusts as you pull him in for a rough kiss. 

You both moan into the kiss as your walls flutter around his twitching cock. He groans at the feeling, breaking the kiss to press his forehead against yours. You pant into each other's mouths as he breathes out “Cum for me, darling.” 

You let out a silent scream as you cum for a third time, Ford groans as he feels your wetness drench yours and his thighs as you squirt on his cock. His head drops to your neck as he bites your shoulder, shuddering as he thrusts deeply, his spend coating your walls as you pant and sigh. 

You lock your feet together around his waist as he collapses onto you. You play with his hair as the smell of sex and sweat permeates the air in the afterglow. 

You wince as you feel his softening cock slowly pull out. He groans at the sight of his cum dripping out of your wet cunt. You feel your combined cum drip down to the crack of your ass as you sit up. 

“So, I'm a mess. Wanna help me clean up?” You smirk up at him, eyes glinting deviously. 

He laughs before pulling you up, “I thought you'd never ask,” you both smile into the kiss you share as you grab his hand, kissing it and leading him to your bathroom.  

You might just send the council a thank you basket for sending you to Gravity Falls after all. . . 

******

A/N: Thank you so much for reading! I had fun writing this!

[gryphis-eyes]

⊙ ἀγάπη, for you my true love

× who's your next girlfriend~

♤ Welcome to this pick a card~ im kinda doing this pac to celebrate the fact that im finally at peace with my sexuality (and I think that's exactly why I always feel conflicted about the love pac Ive done in the past lol) but I think we deserve more wlw in pick a cards. The person that will be represented in those piles can either be a cis woman or identify as a woman, Ive included the whole ’female spectrum”. In this pac I'll use the myths surrounding the dragon I'll pick to represent your next girlfriend to channel her personality and life story, hope you'll enjoy

Also it wasn't the intention but i did rant sometimes about myths don't worry i'm angry when it comes to dragon slaying lol

♤ Deck used : "oracle des dragons" by secret d'étoile & Illuminated Tarot (dedicated to Apollon, thanks for the gift of divination ⊙)

little note ; i only used court cards and major arcana, it is better to identify someone.

○ Masterlist

Choose a picture of my wife, Marie ;

♀ Pile 1

【Cards】 Tarasque & Dreki + The Sun

The first thing that came to my mind are those people who are really fond of the image of the divine feminine maybe it's something that trully changed their life and view of themselves for the better. She totaly got the vibe of a fertility goddess maybe she is even worshipping one, this woman truly feels like Hathor or Brigid because i've eard "she is like Hathor but in a forest". Please do take care of this sun goddess, this isn't a sun that burn but a sun who nurture and deliver a comforting warmth. Being blessed by their love is like being a cat laying on its back bathing in a warm sun ray (lucky you).

It's funny because the two dragons that represent your next girlfriend aren't your typical dragons, they both don't have wings, they're peaceful unless disturbed and don't seek conflict (yes im on the side of the Tarasque fuck those peasants) in this oracle they're called Dreki and the author went on their interpretation of them but it's actually referencing to Lindworm who are dragons that are closer to snakes and who aren't dangerous at all as they feed on dead bodies or random animals. But for those two dragons, once they've encountered men Humans they're instantly considered a menace due to their appearance. The Dreki, as described in this oracle is a dragon that is almost invisible due to their closeness with nature and wilderness by that i can imagine that your next girlfirend is probably shy but i do think it's more about reservation wether they started doing it because of how the world treated them or just because it's their nature. Honestly i'm pretty sure that for most of you, your futur girl is so close to nature some are probably witches or at least worship nature or a deity/spirit who represent the element of earth, the forest and fertility (it can go from Artemis to Demeter or just the fairies). She is very patient and nurturing, probably have the cosiest home you'll ever go to or she has the power to make anyone feel cosy, i know she gives wonderful hugs but you have to deserve them because~

Let's get to the Tarasque side, you can consider it a dark side but i honestly think it's something she's grown into, the Dreki feels like their true self while the Tarasque is probably their "outside appearance". In its legend, the Tarasque attacked annyone who came to close to its territory, it was a furious and scary creature many talks about how terrifying she looked. Just with this part of the story i can see how the world have treated this woman, probably pointing fingers at her pointing out anything that made her different or maybe she's just not conventionaly attractive. Of cours the villagers (her whole surrounding) just wanted the dragon to be slain but one day Marthe (it can be you or someone who's a true friend to her) came in the town, she saw the potential of the Tarasque and not just a furious monster of devastation, lady Marthe appeased the Tarasque and treated it gently. Sadly once Marthe bought the Tarasque to the village those stupid monkey brained peasant decided to kill it in vengeance despite the dragon being now tamed and calm (i'll be salty forever by the way apparently this town sucks now SO GOOD FOR THEM)

With this part of the story i can have two scenarios , this is either the story of your meeting so you'll meet her when she will be in a really lonely place, probably stuck in the place that hurted them (because hey it's not that easy to leave). Or they've already been through all of this and now she is far from those people who harmed her but of course it has consequence on her and her personality so she might come off as rude people might even say 'rude' but don't be stopped by their tough exterior, it's not a mask but an actual outside image of them. Kind of like a bear i've heard, some will think about the fact that they're aggressive and dangerous but actually they're quite cuddly and protective, look at interpretation of the Bear card from Lenormand i feel like it does represent your person quite well or simply what bears represent in your belief system.

Be gentle, be patient because it's not a woman whom you can approach just out of curiosity you'll actually have to seek out in the forest to find her in their most natural habitat and who know maybe she'll charm you. la petite fille de la mer just started playing when i got to this part like wow she is so dreamy i feel like she could hypnotise you like the fairy she is~

my best wishes for you and the fairy princess

♀ Pile 1

【Cards】 Ladon & gargouille + The Sun

It's quite funny that you also got the sun to describe your woman but i sense her to be quite far from Pile 1's girlfriend. She strike me as the sun but in the way of Apollon who represent it, she got a bright side that is bold but warm, she inspire a lot of people as much as she intimidate them because Ladon is the dragon (a kind of hydra) who ended up being turned into the dragon constellation (what a star). And just like Apollon she also has a really dark side, a side of the sun that we often forget about, she is a furious & burning star alone but shining on the world both nurturing and devastating. Your girlfriend is kind of a punk i must say, probably very active when it comes to injustice that just make her blood boil. She probably made herself a lot of enemies but she doesn't care, yes she is alone but she is confident in it (tho i can guess that the loneliness can be heavy sometimes) i can also say that a lot of people probably hate her out of jealousy because she is free and independant while other people are probably too insecure to do anything she does. An other thing i got is that she doesn't care about dressing how she want or being provocative in general "just because she can" i've heard, after all gargoyls are made either scary or provocative in order to scare off evil (like the gorgon images) she assume all of her choices and so she doesn't mind any asshole who come up to try to put her down because if she ever falls on the ground she'll get up to go as high as the stars.

In the myth, Ladon has been slayed by heracles (it's an heracles hater account by the way) during his labours but thing is, Ladon's death has been quite the scandal and made the nymph really sad above of that the dragon was protecting the golden apple tree (thank you for being useless heracles). I can interpret this for your futur girlfriend as her being just protective and supportive of other women (the nymph) but probably about minority in general (the apple tree represent multiple things to protect that are all linked togheter), since the nymph adore Ladon to the point of crying its death she is probably quite popular amongs the girls. Now for the heracles part i think we can all imagine what he represent when you think about the image of your futur girlfriend, (cis)men 100% hate her for sure and some might have been pretty violent about it (what can you expect from such primitive creatures after all).

After being slayed, Hera took Ladon's dead body and made it into the now known as the dragon constellation and the nymph all cried the death of the beast. Your girl is alive don't worry i'm not predicting any death ! I can interpret this part of the myth as despite her being put down by abusive figure she has found the right people for her and who helped her being her true self or just going back to her true self after a big trauma (i mostly get woman figure or a group of woman at least). I can also imagine that as her having a big presence only and so a big supportive audience with some haters.

Your girlfriend actually remind me of Marie, the girl i picked for the 3 piles image so maybe you'd find her interesting maybe read her wiki page or read Innocent (her full name is Marie Joseph Sanson) tho be aware it's a quite violent and dark manga it's not for everyone/every age.

♀ Pile 3

【Cards】 Ouroboros & Quetzalcoatl + Judgement

What the hell ? What have you done to pull out some goddess like that i think you'll date a litteral dragon. This woman has experienced high highs and terrible "death moments" i'm definitly getting someone who's into witchcraft/spirituality but not your little crystal collecting girly oh no, here it's someone who's actively practicing it. Think of the women who worship santa muerte or who are following any chtonian or chaotic god or spirits (like dragons why not). This person kind of remind me of a female version of Griffith but before he became the most problematic character on earth. She looks angelic, like a savior she probably gives wonderful advice and help people get out of wild situation she if harsh in her messages if needed but everything she does serves the ouroboros (the cycle of life and death) most people have met her when being in very bad state as she came by to remind them about the cycle of things or just to shake their world a bit so they start moving again. Tho this angel might be a bit lonely since it's probably really hard for her to find people who match her energy, she isn't afraid of her solitude and darkness because she choosed it, she just fly high knowing that one day she'll meet people or at least someone who match her vibe or who is at least not coming to her while beging for help.

This person is a leader and a messenger she is probably really good with divination it might be her go to thing for everyday trial. Quetzalcoalt was against human sacrifice and with the ouroboros i can imagine that your next girlfriend probably have been through a long and painful cycle of self sacrifice, her surrounding has probably preached how wonderful and how you have no choice but sacrifice yourself for the sake of others and that you should just suffer in silence. Your futur girlfriend said no and stood up against this victim mentality because true freedom cannot be attained when being pushed down to the ground by people, her place was amongs the clouds in harmony with the element of air. She come and goes like the wind, i sense that she isn't particulary extraverted but she doesn't have problem when it comes to interacting with people so she probably speak to random people everytime she goes out however she is quite the loner or at least she is really distant from her friend group, maybe she is very different from them so despite getting along she can't fully give herself to her friendship like she wish she could.

Quetzalcoalt has been betrayed in his myth, again i always sense that your girlfriend's life trial has been made into whole cycle so she could observe and live the problem in all its angles. Has amazing as it sound, this person has suffered a lot through those cycles, yes they come out strong and still standing but don't understimate the pain she went or is still going through, after all Quetzalcoalt killed himself with fire and only his heart was left and became the morning star. I can interpret this has your person using their past experience to teach others about life's pain and how to overcome them but sadly no ones does it for her, it's like she is the first one who always step in dangerous zone to be faced with danger so the others don't despite her fighting to stop this "sacrifice cycle".

Despite being strong they probably needs some company to light up their day (wink wink)

⊙

[the-kr8tor]

TTN hobie and reader where reader is back from LA and hobie is showing her his spider powers. I think it would be interesting to see r’s reaction to seeing them irl and not just on a tv across the other side of the world 😭

Also I can’t remebr my exact wording of my requests from when I wrote them the first time so I hope these match up well with the ones from before 😅

-🕊️ anon

Thank you for another TTN request! ❤️

Pairing: Hobie Brown x fem! Reader/ Spider-Punk x fem! Reader

Tags: No use of Y/N, no specific physical description of the reader, TTN! Hobie, TTN! Reader, FLUFF.

Thread the Needle Masterlist

TTN oneshots

ʕ⁠·⁠ᴥ⁠·⁠ʔ

"Have to tell you somethin'" Hobie suddenly pipes up while you two are comfortably cuddling on the couch, watching some action movie that you've grown to actually like despite the crazy plot and mid acting. He hasn't been paying close attention to it, how could he when his secret gnaws at the back of his head?

"Hmm?" You look up from where you're resting your head on his chest, hand splayed over his abdomen where his shirt has ridden up. He doesn't mind that you're basically groping the muscles underneath since he's doing the same thing to the soft skin of your hip.

The TV's light shines on the side of your face, he takes you in, inhaling sharply, Hobie cups your chin, getting your attention. "Need to tell you somethin'" he emphasizes.

"Okay" you sit straight at his sudden serious tone, different from the flirty tone he sported a few minutes ago.

"I'm Spider-Man"

"Oh" you hold your chest in relief. "I know, Hobs" your voice is full of affection and fondness for the man before you, holding and kneading at his shoulder blade in an attempt to calm his fast heartbeat.

Hobie's eyes grow wide, he watches you in awe for figuring it out. He lays his forehead over yours in relief, relieved that you took the revelation well. There's always that gut feeling from Hobie that you've always known, you chose to wait for him to tell you himself. He's grateful for you, for waiting and staying with him even after keeping it a secret from you.

You can't blame him though, he just doesn't want you to worry. Love does that sometimes.

"And here I thought you would scream in surprise" Hobie pulls away, heart eyes staring back at his best friend.

"Do you want me to? I could still do that" you inhale like you're readying yourself to yell. Hobie lets you act surprised, your voice echoing out in the dark, louder than the TV's volume. "O.M.G!" He rolls his eyes with a smile. "You're the Spider-Man? The same one from the telly?! Oh the act of betrayal the backstabbing hurt"

You put the back of your hand over to your forehead like a silent film actress in distress. "Hobie?! The same Hobie that I've loved since childhood is a vigilante?! Oh my word! How could I not foresee this?!" Cupping his face for emphasis,"oh! My heart!" You act better than the actors on the screen, earning a deep laugh from Hobie.

"Alright, got it. You figured me out" Hobie stops your oscar worthy performance with his hand covering your mouth.

You lick his hand in retaliation. He snaps his hand back, wiping your drool over the blanket spread over your laps.

"I know you, Hobie. The second they got footage of you I knew it was you. I mean, you were wearing the vest I made you!" You chuckle. "I know every stitch and indents on that bad boy" poking his chest, you sigh, catching your breath.

Hobie smiles, "still, should've told you sooner. Didn't want you to worry"

"It comes with the territory of loving you, can't avoid worrying about you all the time." Your heart clenches at the thought of him getting horribly injured. "Back in L.A everytime the mail's late I worry, everytime I see you on the telly swinging, beating the crap out of a would be villain, I worry. That's my job and I've accepted it the moment I fell for you."

Hobie holds you tighter, listening in with bated breath. "Spider-Man's a part of you, and I love every bit of you. I won't stop you from doing it, just come home to me every night. That's all I ask. I'll support you however I can"

"That's all I need," Hobie pressed a heavy kiss on your lips, you barely felt the single tear rolling on your cheek. "Love you"

"Love you too." You sniff, peppering his cheek with numerous kisses. "Thank you for telling me" you snuggle deeper by his side. He replies with a kiss on the crown of your head. "Because I've got some suit ideas that I've been holding on to for so long!"

You stand in awe, eyes still staring at the remote in his hand. "I don't think I'll ever get used to that, but I can try"

"Yeah? You've got sketches of 'em?"

"Yep! I'll just shut the telly off and I'll show it to you properly" you stand up to grab the remote from the coffee table. Hobie beats you to it, aiming his hidden webshooters from under his sleeve, he webs up the device, bringing it towards him.

"You'll love this then" Hobie webs up your waist, you twirl around until you land on his lap. He catches you swiftly as you get acclimated from the dizziness.

You laugh giddily, "Heard you can stick to walls too" holding his hand, intertwining your fingers with his. Hobie squeezes it thrice.

He guffaws, slotting his face right on the crook of your neck. "I'll show you everything"

[unabashegirl]

Lycan 12 — werewolf

Y/N returns to her hometown, Alsfield, when her father falls ill, only to discover the town hides a dark secret—one protected by the mysterious Harry Styles. As Y/N unravels the town's mysteries, her plans to return to San Francisco are derailed.

check out my patreon (starting at $2) and get full access to all chapters, various one shots like The Cover and much more :)

masterlist

wordcount: 2.8

Niall's knuckles rapped on the wooden double doors of the Alpha's office, and a moment of tense silence followed. Y/N watched, her curiosity mixed with apprehension, as Niall slowly pushed the doors open without waiting for a verbal response.

The office was grand and spacious, with a massive wooden desk positioned near a giant window that offered a commanding view of the surrounding territory. The Alpha, the enigmatic leader of the Shadow Pack, stood with his back to the newcomers, gazing out at the landscape.

Y/N felt her heart race as she took in the scene. She had been waiting to meet the Alpha, but what she hadn't expected was the identity of the man before her. It was Harry, the mayor of the nearby town, the same man she had met on that foggy beach.

Her confusion deepened, and she instinctively moved closer to Niall, seeking comfort in his presence. She wondered how the mayor of the town was connected to the mysterious world of the pack, and what secrets he held.

Niall cleared his throat, breaking the silence. "Alpha," he began respectfully, "I've brought Y/N, as you requested."

Harry, the Alpha, slowly turned around, his gaze settling on Y/N. There was an intensity in his eyes, a depth of emotion that left her both intrigued and uneasy.

Y/N's surprise upon discovering that Harry, the mayor of the nearby town and the man she had grown fond of, was the Alpha of the Shadow Pack was beyond words. It felt like a revelation that turned her world upside down.

Her feelings were a whirlwind of emotions. On one hand, there was a sense of betrayal that Harry hadn't shared this monumental secret with her. On the other, there was a strange mix of awe and attraction to the powerful figure before her. She had admired him as the mayor, but now she saw a different, more complex side to him.

She couldn't help but feel conflicted, torn between her desire to understand this new reality and the sense of longing that had grown between her and the Alpha. The fact that Harry had used Niall to bring her here without revealing his true identity left a bitter taste in her mouth.

Harry, the Alpha, studied her with a penetrating gaze, seemingly aware of the turmoil within her. His voice, when he finally spoke, was soft and measured. "Y/N, I know this is a lot to take in, and I apologize for not revealing the truth sooner. There are reasons for the secrecy, reasons that I hope you will come to understand in time."

Y/N remained silent, her mind racing with questions and emotions. She couldn't deny the pull she felt toward Harry, but she also couldn't ignore the fact that her life had taken an unexpected turn, plunging her into a world she had never imagined existed.

As Niall turned to leave the Alpha's office, believing his task was completed by safely bringing Y/N into the pack territory, Harry's commanding voice stopped him in his tracks. The sheer power behind Harry's command made the very walls of the office seem to tremble.

"Get back here now."

Niall swallowed hard, realizing that he wasn't off the hook just yet. He had brought Y/N into the territory, but she wasn't unharmed. The fact that she had needed medical attention hadn't gone unnoticed by Harry. It was clear that the Alpha had sensed her condition.

Reluctantly, Niall turned back and walked toward Harry, his expression a mix of guilt and resignation. He knew that a confrontation was imminent, and he couldn't escape the consequences of his actions.

Harry's eyes bore into Niall's, and the air in the room grew tense as they prepared for what came next. Y/N's presence had set in motion a series of events that neither of them had anticipated, and the pack's Alpha was determined to get to the bottom of it.

Harry's piercing gaze remained fixed on Niall as he demanded an explanation for what had happened to Y/N. Niall, feeling the weight of the situation, cleared his throat before giving his account of the events.

"She fainted," Niall admitted, his voice steady but tinged with unease. "It happened right after I transformed into my wolf."

Harry's expression remained inscrutable as he absorbed this information. He was clearly concerned about Y/N's well-being and the impact of Niall's actions on her. "Is she all right now?" Harry asked, his voice softer, showing a hint of genuine worry.

Niall nodded. "Yes, Alpha. Michaela examined her and prescribed some medication. She should be recovering."

Harry let out a sigh, his shoulders relaxing slightly. "I'm glad to hear that she's getting the care she needs." Then, his gaze hardened as he turned his attention back to Niall. "But I trusted you to keep her safe, Niall. I trusted you with her well-being."

Niall bowed his head in acknowledgment, fully aware of the gravity of his failure. He had let his Alpha down, and there would undoubtedly be consequences for his actions.

Y/N, who had been quietly listening to the conversation between Harry and Niall, finally spoke up. Her voice carried a hint of frustration as she addressed them both.

"Hey," she said, her tone firm, "you guys are acting as if I’m painted on the wall. I am right here”

Both Harry and Niall turned their attention to Y/N, realizing that they had been preoccupied with their own concerns. Harry's expression softened as he regarded her, while Niall looked relieved that she had spoken up.

"You're right, Y/N," Harry conceded, his voice gentler now. "This concerns you, and you deserve to have your questions answered. Please, have a seat. Niall you are dismissed. We’ll talk later”

With a nod from Harry, Niall quietly left the Alpha's office, leaving Y/N alone with the enigmatic leader of the Shadow Pack. As the door closed behind Niall, Y/N felt a mixture of relief and apprehension. She was finally getting the chance to have her questions answered, but the mystery surrounding Harry's dual identity still hung heavily in the air.

Harry walked around his desk and leaned against it, his gaze never leaving Y/N. He understood the weight of the secrets that had been kept from her and recognized that it was time for some clarity.

"Y/N," he began, his voice calm, "where would you like to start? I know you must have many questions, and I'm here to provide you with as much information as I can."

Y/N took a deep breath, her mind racing with inquiries. She had so much she wanted to ask, but she decided to start with the basics. "First, can you explain what all of this is? The pack, the hierarchy, the wolves... It's all so overwhelming."

Harry nodded, appreciating her desire to understand the fundamentals. "Of course," he replied. "Let's begin with the basics. The pack is essentially a family of sorts, but we're not like ordinary families. We're bound by more than blood; we're bound by a shared transformation, a shared existence as wolves."

He paused, giving her a moment to absorb this information before continuing. "Within the pack, there's a hierarchical structure. I'm the Alpha, the leader. Beneath me, there are Betas, like Niall, who assist in maintaining order and ensuring the pack's well-being. And then there are Omegas, who play vital roles too. Each member has their place and responsibilities within the pack."

Y/N listened intently, trying to wrap her head around the concept. "And the wolves?" she asked. "Are they... real wolves?"

Harry smiled, a hint of warmth in his eyes. "Yes, they are real wolves. We're a unique breed, descendants of an ancient line. We have the ability to transform between our human and wolf forms. It's part of our nature, our heritage."

Y/N nodded, beginning to piece together the puzzle. "But why the secrecy?" she asked. "Why not reveal this to the world?"

Harry's expression turned somber. "There are dangers, Y/N. Not everyone would understand or accept us. Our existence has been kept hidden to protect us from those who would seek to exploit or harm us. It's a complex world, and the truth can be a double-edged sword."

Y/N mulled over his words, realizing that this revelation was just the tip of the iceberg. There were still many more questions to be asked, but she felt a newfound sense of clarity and determination. She was ready to delve deeper into the mysteries of the Shadow Pack and the enigmatic Alpha who led it.

Y/N's curiosity burned brighter than ever as she delved further into the mysteries surrounding the Shadow Pack. She leaned forward in her chair, eager to learn more, and posed her next question to Harry.

"Can you tell me about the history of the pack, where it all began?" she asked.

Harry nodded, acknowledging her thirst for knowledge. He began to recount the story of the pack's origins.

"Our history is deeply intertwined with the untamed wilderness of this region," Harry began. "Generations ago, our ancestors lived in harmony with the wolves of the forest. They had a connection to the land and the creatures that inhabited it, unlike anything seen in the modern world."

Y/N listened intently as Harry continued, his voice carrying the weight of history. "As time passed, our ancestors discovered that they had a unique gift—a gift that allowed them to become one with the wolves. They could transform, harnessing the strength and instincts of the creatures they coexisted with."

The Alpha's eyes took on a distant look as he continued, "This gift came with responsibilities. Our ancestors formed the first pack, vowing to protect both the human and wolf sides of their nature. They forged a bond with the wolves, ensuring that our two species would live in harmony."

Y/N was captivated by the tale, her mind racing to grasp the enormity of the history Harry was sharing with her. "What happened next?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Harry's gaze locked with hers, his eyes reflecting the weight of centuries. "Over time, our kind faced threats from those who feared our abilities. We were hunted, persecuted, and driven to the brink of extinction. To survive, we went into hiding, living in secret packs, always wary of discovery."

He paused, letting the gravity of their history sink in. "The Shadow Pack, the largest and most powerful of our kind on the West Coast, traces its lineage back to those early days. We've held onto our traditions, our connection to the wilderness, and our duty to protect our kind."

Y/N was overwhelmed by the depth of the story she had just heard. It was a history that defied belief, and yet, here she was, sitting in the midst of it all. She realized that she had only scratched the surface and that the secrets of the Shadow Pack ran deeper than she could have ever imagined.

As Harry finished recounting their history, Y/N couldn't help but feel a growing connection to this hidden world. There was much more to discover, and she was determined to uncover every secret, no matter how enigmatic or perilous it might be.

Y/N leaned forward, her eyes focused on Harry, eager for answers to the questions that had filled her mind. "Harry," she began, "how did your pack manage to build this town in such a secluded place? It's all so... remarkable."

Harry nodded, recognizing the natural curiosity that had drawn Y/N into their world. "Building this town was a long and carefully orchestrated process," he explained. "We chose this remote location to remain hidden from those who might wish to expose us or exploit our abilities. Over time, our pack members, both human and wolf, used their unique skills and resources to construct what you see today."

Y/N marveled at the dedication and effort that must have gone into creating the hidden town. It was a testament to the pack's commitment to their way of life.

As she absorbed this information, she couldn't help but recall Michaela's words. "When Michaela hugged me earlier," Y/N said, "she mentioned that she was glad they found me. What did she mean by that?"

Harry's expression softened, and he regarded her with a knowing look. "Michaela was referring to the concept of mates," he said. "In our world, finding one's mate is a rare and cherished occurrence. It's a deep and profound connection that goes beyond mere romantic love. When mates find each other, it's a cause for celebration and joy within the pack."

Y/N's heart raced at the implication of Harry's words. "Mates? What do you mean by that?"

Harry took a moment to choose his words carefully. "Mates are two souls destined to be together," he explained. "When they meet, there's an undeniable connection, a bond that goes beyond words. It's a profound and irrevocable link, and it often brings a sense of completeness to those who experience it."

Y/N tried to process this revelation, her mind swirling with questions. "What does it have to do with me?

"Because, Y/N, you're my mate."

Silence hung in the room, broken only by the faint hum of distant voices from the packhouse below. Y/N felt as though time had come to a standstill. She couldn't process what she had just heard.

"You're my mate," Harry repeated, his voice filled with a mix of tenderness and anticipation.

Y/N's heart raced, and a thousand questions rushed to her mind. She stammered, "I... I don't understand. What does that mean?"

Harry stepped closer, his presence warm and reassuring. "It means that we share a unique bond, one that transcends time and space. Mates are connected on a profound level, emotionally and spiritually. We're meant to be together."

Y/N was still struggling to grasp the enormity of the revelation. "But why me? Why now?"

Harry sighed, a hint of sadness in his eyes. "The timing is... unusual. We usually discover our mates earlier in life, but sometimes fate has other plans. As for 'why you,' I believe it's because you have a role to play in our pack, a destiny that's intertwined with mine."

He gently cupped Y/N's face, his thumb brushing her cheek. "You're not just any mate, Y/N. You're the Luna—the leader of the pack, my partner in every sense. Together, we'll guide our pack and protect our kind."

Y/N felt overwhelmed by the weight of her newfound role and the connection she shared with Harry. It was a revelation that defied logic and reason, yet she couldn't deny the intense emotions welling up within her. A mixture of fear, curiosity, and a strange sense of destiny filled her.

She looked into Harry's eyes, searching for answers. "What now? What does this mean for us?"

taglist: @harryssky1, @jerseygirlinca, @daphnesutton, @rose-garden-dreamz

next ---> chapter 13

[mslanna]

Raphael telling Tav, "I've grown quite fond of you, in my way. Perhaps too fond."

enby Tav without body configuration blood Read on AO3

It Takes Too

It was an utter and absolute disgrace. A devil, an infernal being of the most resplendent order and – that. Raphael looked at the heap of flesh and bone before him. Shivering. Quivering. Slowly bleeding out.

He could restore the broken body easily. A snap of his fingers. A dunk in his healing pool. But the actual sting and pain came from how much Raphael wanted to. He was a devil, by the nine hells. A being of evil and suffering. He thrived on desperation. The view before him should light up his heart and bring joy to his day.

It did not.

The joy was postponed and relocated. When he had his hands on the perpetrators of this – incident. It helped his mood that all three of them, the three that survived capture that was, were currently secured in his private cells in his House of Hope. Future pleasure was guaranteed. He had many hours of delightful torture before him until, eventually, he'd suck out their souls like well-aged wine. It might take decades indeed.

But first, there was the matter of his little mouse. What was left of them. Raphael was tempted to poke the heap with a foot, but it wasn't worth soiling his boots over. This should have been the easy part. The shadowcursed lands were healed, the road to Baldur's Gate was free. And this is what Tav did with their triumph. Let themselves get overwhelmed by bandits. Bandits!

Pathetic.

A minuscule mewl of pain reached up to Raphael's ear. He'd have to intervene soon. If he wanted to. A question he had avoided until now. Yes, his plan rested, rather squarely, on the shoulders of this mortal. And yes, so far they had done well enough for themselves. And him. He enjoyed watching their progress.

But was it because it brought him closer to his own destiny? The Crown of Karsus was within reach. Tav was this close to figuring everything out and handing it over on a silver platter. His trap was laid out well. The mouse came back to nibble on the "free" cheese ever so often. Once in the city another meeting, maybe two should seal their fate.

Tav was bound to him, of that he had made sure. Raphael sighed. It was a fragile thread as yet. Too fragile for his liking. He wanted – Raphael paused. It didn't matter what he wanted until he had the crown. Everything else had to wait. Even Tav. Maybe, especially Tav. He dammed off the deluge of images intruding his thoughts. Later. Soon.

Not soon enough.

He crouched at the side of the broken adventurer and waved his hand over their body. Close, but not close enough. Tav moaned and moved in pain. A little punishment for their recklessness. Also, the noise was so close to its pleasant cousin. Raphael licked his lips. Later.

A little more magic and Tav opened their eyes, blood-shot and bleary. But their face brightened when they recognised him. "Raphael?"

"The very same." He put an appropriate amount of sarcasm into his tone. "You are reckless, little mouse."

Under the blood and sweat Tav blushed. They tried to speak but Raphael put a finger over their bloody lips. Close enough. Soft. His mind conjured those lips onto his skin everywhere and Raphael pushed the images away resolutely. No time for that yet. "Do you plan to get into debt with me until I can just ask anything from you in a deal?"

The blush deepened. "You didn't have to come."

"No, I did not. But as I said, you are my favourite future client. Am I going to forgo this because you throw away your life on a whim?"

"I want to live." It was a soft murmur. Tav looked away as they said it and their eyes went dark.

"Well, lucky for you then, that I want the exact same thing." Raphael stood and offered his hand. After some hesitation, Tav took it and let him help them to their feet. He gave them a critical once-over. They'd make it to camp.

Raphael ignored the urge to take Tav to the House of Hope. The healing pool beckoned and he could almost see the droplets glistening on Tav's bare skin. Unthinking, he licked his lips again.

"Why, though?" Tav raised a brow and tried to brush of the worst of the mud and gore.

"I've grown quite fond of you, in my way. Maybe too fond." It was enough of the truth.

"Do I owe you now?" Tav asked.

"And what if you did, little mouse? What do you have to offer?"

In return, the mortal looked him over. Raphael wondered what they saw. The devil despite his human form? The saviour he positioned himself as? Or still only a fiend after their soul?

"I can think of a thing or two," they finally replied. "To make sure you are not really too fond of me but just- an appropriate amount of fond." They smiled as they said it and though it wasn't in anyway suggestive, it cut Raphael to the bone.

"Cat got your tongue?" Tav still smiled and held out their hand. "Let me get cleaned up and look into any remaining injuries and I am all yours. For now."

On impulse, Raphael took Tav's hand, pulled them close and teleported into the House of Hope. They could treat any lingering ailments there, much better than in the field or camp. All his for now was good enough. For now.

[callofdudes]

A/N: It has been an extremely busy and stressful couple months for me, plus I am working on several big projects as well as getting dragged back into the marvel fandom with the new D&W movie. And I know I still have a lot that I need to get out for my buddy, and he's been incredibly patient with me. That's his gift to me, and I wanted to give him a little something back as it's his birthday. @itsscromp I hope you enjoy this little royalty AU that I scrapped together. I had a lot of ideas for this and I struggled with figuring out something, and I didn't want it to be a stupid birthday themed post... But as my schedule fucked me sideways on a bed of nails, that's what I've brought you.

3.4K+ words.

The Birthday of a Prince/Princess.

The sun glimmered through the window, its warmth casting over your face, washing you on the new day. The curtains flickered softly, the soft satin pushed out of the way by firm hands and tied back by the delicate fabric's rods. The sun's warmth is welcome on the quiet August morning, your eyelids slowly flickering open.

The sun fills your soft irises, the glow reflecting their warmth. The sun was your body's reminder to rise and you stretched your arms high above your head, knuckles brushing against the wood headrest. An involuntary yawn as your toes wiggled to lose that sluggish feeling that fills you early in the morning.

Your gaze flickered toward the window, a soft smile graced your lips when Simon turned back to you after fixing the curtains. He placed his gloved hand back on the pommel of the sword at his hip, the chainmail across his broad chest clinks and slides, a familiar sound you'd grown to listen for his presence.

"Good morning." You whispered, your voice not ready to conjure up much else.

Simon gave you a respectful nod. "Good morning, Your Highness." He paused briefly, "Did you sleep well? I figured you could use the extra hours." It was your birthday after all. Usually, you'd be up much earlier, your mother talking off your ear at the breakfast table. Or your father would have you out in the crisp autumn air for archery, the air soaking into the layers of your clothing and sinking into your bones. But today you could sleep in. Today is your birthday.

"Mm, thank you, Simon. I did."

He nodded again and stood post by your bedside, allowing you to take your time. As you rubbed your eyes and sat up, a knock came to the door, prompting Simon's hand to tighten briefly on his sword, but it was just morning coffee.

"Your Highness." The maid wandered over, wary of Simon's incredible stature as she set the tray of coffee and tea on the small table inside your room.

"Thank you." You swung your feet over the side of the bed and yawned again to shake yourself free of the night, the claws of sleep releasing from deep within your shoulders and sinking back into the darkness.

"What's on our schedule again?" You prompted Simon while you went for coffee, craving the sweet medieval version of a modern-day coke shot. (Positive.)

Simon adjusted his stance and kept a watchful eye on you, a fond one. He'd mellowed out a lot over the years, you remember when he first became your knight and it was all about the rules and following the higher-ups. Well, he's learned from you that sometimes it can be fun to ignore said rules.

"Well, a certain king is coming over for lunch, his knight and a certain poet might also be there." He said casually, but you perked up, a little smile crossing your face.

"After lunch, I hear they have a few surprises for you, and there may be some archery." He paused for dramatic effect. "But that's all speculation."

You chuckled. "Oh yes, "speculation", get down here and have some tea mister." You beckoned him over, and he wouldn't deny another delicious cup of tea. He took his sword off his belt and laid it down, kneeling across from you at the table and picking up the cup of tea you offered him. "Thank you, Your Highness."

You raised your cup to clink his, knowing it always made his eyes roll, and right on cue, there it was. That long, dramatic flick of his eyes, amber catching the light from the window and lighting up like gold. You always told him they were beautiful, but he was quick to dismiss your antics and go back to his post like you weren't a little pain in his ass.

"I hate tea parties." He said monotonously.

"Mm, not with me." You tilted your head and gave him a cheeky smile.

"You're lucky it's your birthday, kid."

-------

Once you had gotten dressed you slipped on a light coat and wandered out to the garden to breathe in the fresh air and stretch your legs somewhere outside of cobblestone floors and delicate tapestries at every corner. Here you could get some peace, away from the hustle and bustle of every servant and worker wishing to entertain your every will and whim.

Simon followed. The slide of chainmail and the shift of his boots remained faithful to your ear while you walked. His hand rested at his hip, his gaze scanning over you, and then down at the flowers that sprung up from the ground and branched toward the sun. Would it be too forward to think they might be greeting you? Maybe if it were possible he'd make it seem so. He didn't like to get melancholy but wanted to do more for you every day.

The bushes rustled beside you, and Simon was immediately snapped from his thoughts, sword breaking away from the clasp of his sheath, but your hand rested on his forearm to stop him.

"Just the animals." You watched the bush as some birds fluttered away, causing a squirrel to scramble from his hiding spot to a new one.

Simon huffed and slowly returned his sword, and he could feel the grin widening on your face. "Shush."

"Did it scare you?" You snickered, and Simon resisted to get you back for constantly teasing him. Although, he teased you back just as much, so maybe this birthday is just a big prank on him.

"Was just thinking too much." He grumbled but didn't attempt to push your hand off his arm. Instead, you tightened the hold, leaning into him. "Oh, dangerous. I can't have you thinking you have free will. What if you ran off?"

"You're weird." He reached a gloved hand to ruffle your hair into your eyes, forcing you to release him to fix it. "Ah- how dare you!"

He snickered, lightly shaking his head, and returned to his strong stature, looking away from you when you fixed your hair. "Just you wait mister." You stuck your finger near his face, and under that stupid mask, you could feel that cheeky little smirk.

But you loved it. It took you a while to get to this point with him, but you wouldn't take it back for the world. He remained the same man who could effortlessly cut down anyone he thought would test your life while letting you sleep in for your birthday.

-------

It was nearing lunch when Simon got word from the guards that their important guest had arrived on time and safely. Which was good for him, if they hadn't arrived safely then that would have been one sucky birthday present. He turned from the guard who notified him to where you were lounging in your chair, flicking your fingers carelessly.

He cleared his throat, breaking your ritual of connecting your fingers, and bringing your gaze to him.

"His Highness Price is here."

He couldn't help but be slightly jealous when your eyes lit up when you heard his name. John had been a longtime friend of the family, and he would show appreciation with constant visits in between calming whatever flaring war his troublemaker of a partner Nik was stirring.

"Let them in." You stood from your chair and adjusted your clothing, rushing after Simon as you headed to the main hall. Simon made a quick motion with his hand at the guards posted there and they were quick to open the doors to the castle.

Beyond the rows of guards that wandered the outcrop of cobblestone and gated groves was a large carriage manned by two brilliant caramel-colored horses.

The door of the carriage opened and Kyle stepped down from the carriage. His armor clanked, grooves of his kingdom's emblem flickering off his chest in the light. He turned, allowing Price to step out next.

He was always watching his surroundings as the taller man pulled his cloak from the carriage and fixed his hat. His beard was trimmed neatly and his firm blue eyes scanned the familiar grounds before landing on you and your knight.

He wandered over, nodding to you and Simon. "There's our birthday royal." He smiled at you, his expression reminding you of an adorable and fuzzy animal you saw in a book once. You bowed to him as he approached. Simon begrudgingly bowed as well, although of all the people he's met Price is the only one he respects enough.

When you rose, Price gently cupped your cheeks and gave you a brief kiss on the cheek, examining you. Sure it had almost been a year since he'd seen you but he needed to get a look at his kiddo, see if you were A-ok.

"Simon looking after you?" He asked firmly, flicking a teasing gaze over at the knight.

"Yes, he has been. I couldn't ask for someone better." You chuckled, your hands cupping Price's forearms, squeezing gently. "Thank you for coming. It means a lot."

"You know I wouldn't miss this."

The carriage rustled, rocking slightly on its frame as a large bag was tossed out the side, along with a bow, a sword, and some miscellaneous things that didn't fit in the sack.

The horses huffed and the cart jostled once more before Johnny forced himself out, stumbling over the sack on the ground and barely catching himself. "First of all-!" He reached up to grab his hat, huffing loudly, pointing an accusatory finger at Price. "I was not sleeping!"

"Need help with that?" Kyle offered as Johnny bent down to pick up his weapons and bag. "No." Johnny huffed and stomped off.

"Oh brother…" Simon muttered, his hand resting on his pommel. Not afraid Johnny would hurt you, but to guard himself against this man who keeps trying to be his best friend.

Despite being somewhat clumsy and often mistaken for an intelligent sot, John MacTavish had served in the king's court as one of his few trusted strategists, astrologists, and scientists, and a poet on the side.

"Hey Johnny." You chuckled softly, watching him and Kyle walk over. "And Kyle."

"Your Highness." Kyle put his palms to his hips and bowed respectfully. "It's good to be here with you." He took your hand and pressed a gentle kiss against the ring there. Hell, he was a charmer, but he was respectful, it's just who he was.

"I am hungry." Johnny patted his stomach, letting it to the introduction for him.

Price shook his head in dismay and took his two companions with you inside to find some food. You led them down to the dining hall where the large table awaited. It was meant for a larger group of people. You were glad it was just for the few of you, and your parents weren't home.

"Have a seat, they'll bring food out soon." You smiled as you sat in your usual spot, the chair stretching much taller than your actual stature so the decorative part of the wood gave off a crown-like look.

"So, how have you been? Another turn around the sun, how does it feel?" Price asked, adjusting his robe to lay across the arm of the chair, Kyle sitting next to him and respectfully putting his sword aside.

"Oh, it's been… it's been a lot. I have more responsibilities each year and sometimes I wish I could sleep every day." You chuckled softly. "I even started to think Royals just couldn't have good birthdays."

"Well, you're more than worth celebrating." Price said, and the others made various noises of agreement.

And Johnny's favorite part of these visits… The food.

"Oho hohoh, yes! Price, we have got to get this stuff back home." He could smell the meat from a mile away. When the various carts of food came out and the platters were put on the table, it was much more than you'd originally expected.

But you weren't disappointed whatsoever. Johnny stacked his plate high, Price considered reprimanding him, but upon seeing your amused smile he figured it could slide this time.

"So, don't you have some big fancy party or something?" Kyle piped up from where he also served himself.

You shrugged. "Yes, my parents have always been… that way. But I convinced them to let me have another year with a day just for my friends. Because come on, I don't my birthday to also become diplomatic."

"And I don't get paid enough to supervise them." Simon piped up, before getting an elbow in the side, which hurt you more than it hurt him. "You like me so much."

"Debatable," Simon replied, a coy smile spreading across his lips when he pulled his mask down from his nose around his throat so he could eat. For a bit the clinking of utensils was all that filled the silence as you dug into the meal, getting settled.

"Did you guys get me anything?" You perked up.

"A ho-"

Price shot Johnny a firm look, and Johnny quickly bit his tongue, "Oooar-nnothing. Nothing. No presents this year, sorry. We ran out of- m-money…"

Price gently flicked him, to which Johnny shrugged. "I'm excited! I get nervous when I'm excited." He whisper-yelled. Imagine having ADHD in medieval times… We feel ya Johnny, RIP.

You chuckled, and Price shook his head again.

"Sorry, I've been told I usually have good table manners." Johnny shoved another bite of food into his mouth to ensure he didn't spoil anything else. "Unlike our Johnny here would lead you to believe, I did bring gifts. And I'm sure you will like them."

"Coming from you guys I'm sure I will."

Simon huffed quietly. Watch his present be the best… How dare they steal his friend's attention. Impossible. He doesn't have unhealthy coping mechanisms for love at all. Ignore him.

-------

Toward the end of the lunch Price called for one of his servants and had the man bring in several presents from their carriage. The two presents on the table before you ranged from a small scroll to a larger box. And Price's gift apparently could not fit inside the castle…

"Open mine first." Johnny piped up. He'd worked on that gift all night and enthusiastically nudged it toward you. Simon gave him a little glare, but Johnny was too excited to care about getting suddenly beheaded. You looked like you were having fun!

"Ok, ok, I will." You took the scroll and slowly untied it, pressing the paper down to read the scratchy handwriting that was unmistakably Johnny's.

You're a star.

Today is the birthday Of a very special star.

And the older stars shine best

Especially from afar

This star has shone brightly

All the year through

And in case you are wondering

That star is you.

(Plays sad violin in unoriginal.)

You smiled softly, looking up at Johnny. "Johnny… Thank you, this means a lot." You smiled softly, and his smile grew twice as wide.

"Don't thank me, it's true."

You tucked the poem away so you could keep it safe with all the other ones you had from him and moved on to the larger present. "Now what could this be." You eyed Kyle who sat rigid in his chair, watching as you opened it up.

Inside lay a masterfully crafted bow. Intricate detail went down the body, gold linings in the weapon and the metal had been refined and polished to mesmerize. "Woah."

You slowly pulled the heavy bow out, feeling it in your hands and resting it against your forearm. "This is beautiful. You made this?"

Kyle nodded softly. "My own two hands." He gave you a smile when he saw your awe over the work. Kyle was known for these sorts of things, and man, he never disappointed. This might be up there with the giant map Johnny drew you once for your 18th. It was currently hung on your bedroom wall.

"Thank you so much." You gently placed the weapon back down, nodding to him. And he nodded back softly.

"Alright Price…" You turned and looked at him. Price chuckled warmly and stood, nodding to you. "Come, I'll show you."

You grabbed your coat and quickly followed after him, Gaz, Johnny, and Simon following in line behind. Price walked out to the carriage, which had been put away and the horses grazing, and turned back toward you.

He gently placed his hand on one of the caramel-colored horses. "This beauty-"

Johnny bit his lip and exhaled a sharp breath of air. "Hoooorse." He whispered. Whew, he got it out.

"Oh, wow." You nodded, but then the ethics came into question. What the hell were you going to do with another horse? He knew you well enough that you liked horses as much as the next person, but you already have a horse!

"And before you say it." John puts a hand up. "They can be friends. Horses love friends."

"You got my horse a horse-friend?" You whispered, looking at the pretty horse. It was a beautiful animal, yes, you could agree.

"Yes, seems fairly reasonable to me. No?"

You chuckled softly and walked over, hugging him warmly. "I'll take the horse, thank you." You snickered.

"You're welcome." He patted your back softly.

You had a funny little assortment of friends. And you spent the majority of the day with them. You tested your new bow on the range, getting Kyle's assistance with the weight, and shooting through his makeshift targets.

You even did some sparring with them, enjoying watching everyone go at it and have a fun time. You chuckled when Simon nearly ran away when Price challenged him to fight. But he powered through, your little fighter.

And when Simon was drenched in sweat and panting, he returned to your side, ready to finally talk to you.

"Hey…" He dropped his sword into the grass and removed the metal helmet for the fight.

"I have to talk to you now." It was a statement, you'd come to know that tone well. It was when he felt strong enough to come to you with something.

You smiled softly. "Go on."

Simon kneeled slowly before you, reaching for something. "I don't have much for you…" He lifted a crown that he must have pulled from mid-air, smiling softly at you. "Would you like to be King/Queen?" He smiled at you proudly, and you blinked.

"Is… is that my dad's?"

"What? No, It's - It's not his. Shit." He tossed it behind him and smiled again, showing you his bare hands. "I figured since you always want to do things yourself. You always talk about wanting to rule-"

"You killed my parents!??"

"I thought you wanted to be ruler. So yea… That's why they weren't here for your birthday! Someone will find them I'm sure."

You were horrified. Simon killed your parents!?

-------

Ok, We have to pause this for a moment. Yeah, He does this all the time. You know, Simon isn't a great creative writing partner, He's a little crazy. I always have to go back and rewrite and edit the shit he does to fics, so I'm calling him out. I have to talk to him about putting him in these things. We can't be doing this Simon! God, sorry, sorry…

-------

Simon kneeled before you, taking a deep breath and looking up at you. "So… maybe I wasn't able to get you a present. I have to keep an eye on you 24/7 and I couldn't find the time with all the rushing around we did-" He snatched up a lily from the garden of the training area, placing it gently into your hand.

"But I want to promise you, that as I have every year, I'll do everything for you. And I'm glad you aren't a power-hungry maniac who makes me kiss your toes every day. You've given me a lot of room. So, thank you."

You smiled softly, gently bringing him back to his feet. "I don't need gifts, but I'm glad to have you. You opened up to me and you've become one of my best friends. And I get to see you every day. Is that not a present in and of itself?"

He huffed softly. "I guess so."

He gently ruffled your hair. "Happy Birthday, Your Highness."

[autumnvine]

Meeting the parents

Summary: Set after Accidental Love, after the Chitauri attack on New York, You had become rather fond of Loki, the question was, did he feel the same?

"Loki, you mentioned Asgard before, what is it?"

"My Kingdom."

"Where is it, like in europe or something?"

"What is europe?" remarked Loki

"It's the other side of the world, miles across the ocean." trying to explain the globe to the God was a little more difficult then imagined.

"Asgard is not of this world, it is lightyears from here. Traveling through the Bifrost makes it simpler."

"What's a bifrost? Will you show me one day?"

"No more questions for now mortal." Loki answered, he never really called you by your name, you questioned whether or not he even knew it, or remembered it.

Loki stood above you, almost towering over you, the height difference was rather lengthy between you two, Loki was not a lover of the mortals, that he had made very clear, but you were different, he could tollerate you. After all you stood by him when noone else would, his own brother turned his back against him, the rightful King. It had been quite some time since the Chituari attack upon New York, you had grown rather fond of Loki, something about him was taking over your everythought, involuntarily, not caused by the tesseract, but something else. Something wonderful.

Loki had been hiding out in an abandoned wherehouse, re-evaluating his situation, he kept you around tho, always by his side, you offered to help him with whatever he needed, without attacking anyone however. Torrential rain poured down from the hevens, closely followed by thunder and lightning. Loki watched in slight fear of his brother making an unrequested appearance.

"What, you're not afraid of a little lightning are you?" you asked giggling slightly

"I'm not overly fond of what follows." Loki remarked without looking at you, keeping his gaze on the dark clouds rolling in over head. You moved cautiously toward his side, whispering his name, "It's just a little rain, do you not have that in Asgard, it's mostly harmless really, it doesn't hurt you or anything, you just get a bit wet." Loki scoffed at your attempt to comfort him, he was a God, not afraid of rain, or anything for that matter, and here he stood a mortal at his side, offering words of comfort. A rather large thud came from the tin roof sheilding you from getting wet. "He's here" Loki smirked in amusement, knowing fine well his brother would come sooner or later.

"Who?" you questioned, "What has that?" Loki gave no reply.

A man, long blonde hair to his shoulders, red cloak, metal armour covering his body, walked toward you and Loki,

"Brother!" The other man shouted to Loki, seeing his look drop, somehow you got the feeling this was not for exchanging plesenteries.

"I thought you dead"

"Did you mourn?" asked Loki

"We all did, our father, our mother, we were raised together, we fought together, we played togehter Loki, do you remember none of that?"

"You tossed me aside, cast out by your father. I became a ruler, I led the army to this mortal planet, I've seen world's you have never known about. I built an empire, that was shortly destroyed."

"Come home Loki, give up this poison, stop this madness. I miss you, our mother misses you, our father misses you."

"Your father" Loki hissed

Uncomfortably standing watching the brothers argue with eachother, not knowing wether to leave or stay, interrupt or stay quiet. You stood beside Loki, slowly moving infront of him to protect him from the war you expected to erupt between the two brothers

"Don't hurt him, please" You whispered  

"Brother who is this?"

Loki stood tall staring at his brother

"Mortal, my brother Thor son of Odin, God of Thunder." you bowed slightly unsure of what to do in the prescence of a God

"Thor, this is the only mortal who stands by her King."

"Nice to meet you, what's your name?" Thor asked

"Y/n" shyly whispering to the God standing no less then three feet infront of you.

"Loki, come home, please. I miss you, it isn't the same without you. Tricks, games and all."

"Did they send you?" Loki snapped, disregarding everthing his brother had just told him. "Did Odin send you to collect me, so I can once again be prisoner to my own home? I don't think so." Loki chuckling to himself in disbelief, he knew he was destined for greatness, he knew Odin wanted him to keep as a wepon ready for war. Loki knew he was of no use to Odin after finding out thr truth of his real herritage, and the real reason for his salvation as a child.

"Noone sent me Loki, why won't you believe me. I came to get my brother back, they don't know I'm here, they don't know your hear. They think you dead Loki, Our mother thinks your dead Loki. Come home, if not for me, then do it for her. She loves you Loki" 

After some time and much deliberation Loki agreed to what once was his home, to return to Asgard with his brother, Thor insisting upon bringing you too, explaining how it would be good for him to have someone he trusts, and someone who believes in him. "Hold onto me" Loki told you, you wrapped your arms around him, his arm around your back holding you close to him. Both of you enjoying the closeness but not acknowledging it. Being lifted through the air, through time and space itself, traveling into a rainbow of colours of it were. not believing what you were seeing you held on tighter to Loki, almost trying to seek protection from his embrace.

Unsure of how this was even possible, teaveling, flying without an airplane, flying to another world that just a year ago you didn't even know it excisted. Arriving in Asgard your feet hitting firmly off the floor, Loki holding you tighter, catching you from falling.

"Welcome to Asgard" Thor excited to have his brother finaly come home. The three of you walking across the bridge into the city of Asgard. Almost every Asgardian stopping in their tracks staring at Loki and you, whispering amongst them, almost everyone kneeling at the brothers walking past. Feeling very overwhelmed as you looked around, seeing a beautiful city, pristine gardens everywhere, everything was clean nothing like New York at all. Taking in everything, Loki was confused to why everyone was staring in disbelief. "This is the palace" Two guards either side opened up the huge doors to the golden palace. Great statues of the God's who had come before, towers with beautiful paintings, nothing like you'd ever seen before.

"Loki" you heard a womans voice, soft and gentle standing in a long hallway. Loki turned to face her, "Mother" Loki looking like a frightened child lost in the woods. Tears pricking his eyes, shoulder dropping in relief to see her.

"Oh Loki" Frigga running to her son holding him close, afraid to let him go as if he weren't real "My son is home" kissing his forhead, turning to you, "And who is this beautiful lady whom accompanys him?"

You bowed "I'm y/n I'm friends with Loki, your majesty"

"Y/n it's lovely to meet you my dear, my son is lucky to have someone like you in his life, if there is anything you need please ask anyone and we shall accommodate, your welcome to stay here dear as long as you wish." Frigga was so lovely to you, blushing and thanking her she walked with you and her boys through the halls "Thor does the allfather know you have returned?" she asked

"Not yet mother, I am confident he shall know soon."

After a while of reaquainting Loki with his mother you were walking around the palace gardens as the two sons spoke prievtly with the allfather. Not wanting to attend the sure to be a delightful experience with the possibility of war between the Gods, you chose the serenity of the palace. Wandering timelessly thoughts all new and wonderful, staring at a statue of what once was. Odin and Frigga standing tall and proud above their two boys Thor and Loki beautiful carved writing "Vires in familia" puzzled to what language or what it read, "strength amongst family my dear" a soft voice read from behind you,

"Your highness" turning and bowing "It's beautiful, you seem like a very lovely family, you really care for your sons" you whispered

"My dear, you may hide your feelings from yourself, but from the God's it doesn't work"

"I'm sorry, what do you mean?" you asked Frigga "I can see it in your eyes, I heard it in your voice introducing yourself as Loki's friend earlier, there's pain behind that word, friend. You wish to be more am I correct?" you stood at a loss for words, how was iti she knew, what you felt, how she knew everything.  Why couldn't Loki see that? you asked yourself.

"My dear, he knows" Frigga spoke softly to your confused look across your face. She gave you lots of advice, shared family stories of Thor and Loki as children, how Loki would trick Thor into almost anything he didn't want to do, Loki learnt from a young age he was special, he had certain abilities. Shapeshifting, shadow casting, and much more you had never seen only drempt of. Frigga spoke very highly of Loki she explained too you how when Loki found out he was adopted he took it very badly, given the circumstances Frigga explained she wanted to tell him, just the two of them, however instead Odin screamed at it him when he found the truth out for himself on acciden about his true herritage. Hearing Loki upset it hurt a little part of you.

"He likes you, Yn, he's either too stubborn or afraid to tell you, but I see the way he looks at you when your not watching, he gazes at you, I think you should tell him how you feel, your good for him Y/n."

As night rolled in you continued to have a hearty conversation with the allmother, it was a lovely night, very special Frigga had opened her heart and her home to you, someone she barely knew and made you feel so relaxed and comfortable "Come my dear, you must meet the allfather, however he can be slightly intimidating at first but do not worry I will be right beside you.

Your heart pounding in your chest as you were about to meet thee Odin, unsure of how to conduct yourself. There he was, sitting on the golden throne with a staff in hand, you bowed to the floor beneath him, until he allowed you to stand.

"What business do you have here mortal?"

You panicked and got all flustered "I....Um..I, I'm"

"She is accompanying your sons" Frigga spoke up for you

"With Loki, he's my friend"

Odin sat unamused by you, "But I can go though, I know I sort off dropped by unnanounced, in faireness it wasn't my decision, it was-"

"Silence mortal" Odin shut down your ramblings,

"Now what is your purpose for being in Asgard?"

"I like your son okay, and Loki told me to hold onto him and he would take me through the rainbow lights to get here. I'm sorry I didn't mean to cause any issues."

"Your dismissed" Odin practically asking you to leave.

Bowing before turning to leave you walked endlessly through the halls of Asgard Palace, not knowing where you were going you turned the corners until finding a room filled with books upon books, sheves filled to the celling. Each old and well read, binder covers torn and slightly freyed around the edges, you walked through the different aisles seeing each book differently, none like you had seen on earth ever before.. Some in Asgardian, some in english, some in various languages you'd never seen before. Leaning over the corner of the end shelf you found a huge window chair, the window stained glass with a wolf and what you were sure to be a woman warrior. "This is amazing" saying quietly to yourself, meandering round from the back of the suite, eyes fixated on the portrait, seeing something move slightly in the corner of your eye. "OH I'm sorry, I'm so sorry" becoming rather startled and awkward "Do you like it here?" Sudden relaxation washed over you, it was just Loki, "it's Beautiful Loki, your very blessed to grow up in a place like this"

"Blessed? Have you met the allfather?" Loki chuckled

"I see your point. I met him breifly, he is very intense, I don't think he cares for my being here. I didn't mean to introude, I can go?"

"Stay. Please, So you met the allfather"

"I did, not a very charming man."

"You met my mother?"

"Awwh Loki your mother is fantastic, she has such a gentle soul, she's a beautiful person. And she told me alot about you and Thor and your childhood, she gave me some advice too."

"Oh, and what would that be?" The God asked while still looking down at his book. You fumbled with your fingers working up the nerve to tell the God what he already knew. "We're friends right?"

"We are" Loki answered

"What if we were more then friends, how would you feel about that?" The silence could have been cut with a knife, it was rather uncomfortable, having your feelings out there in the air like so. Loki lifted his head from the pages, closing the book over and setting it to his side, his eyes feeling like there burning a hole through your soul, "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said anything Loki, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable or-" stopping talking as Loki stood infornt of you, your heart couldn't possibly be beating any faster then it already was. "I, Loki I'm-" "Sshh my dear" gently he rested a finger upon your lips, holding your breath for a second. "I know not what kind of trickery this is, but it is neither funny, nor amusinng, rather insulting, now you may tell my brother that his pathetic attempts to get back at me are useless."

"Loki, he didn't send me, this isn't a trick. I didn't mean to upset you. I'm sorry" Lowering your head with embarisment and shame, completely mortified actually. Loki liffted your chin with his finger, "You're certain this is no trick?" shyly nodding

"Then I would very much like to be more then friends with you Yn" blushing and smiling from right to left. "Please sit with me"

"What were you reading, you know before I interrupted you"

"It's called Romeo and Juliet, would you like to hear some?" the God asked you, "Thee Romeo and Juliet, the tragic forbidden love story between two lovers, families at war, ending in soul destroying tragedy."

"What sort of Midguardian horror fiction have you been reading?"

"Apparently not the same story" you laughed

"This isn't about romance, especially no love story. More of a... well it's complicated., So would you like to hear some?"

"I'd love that"

Listening to Loki read paraghraps upon paragraphs, page after page, the sun slowly setting through the painted window, slowly moving further and further down the couch, eyes growing heavier with each word, his voice very peaceful and calming, soothing your running thoughts. It had grew late into the night, you were sound asleep on Loki's lap, he continued to read to you, but also gazing at you his heart brimming with joy and pride knowing you were his, as he was yours. Perhaps this was the beggining of something wonderful, more magical then anything the God had ever seen before. Loki sat there perfectly still afraid of moving incase he woke you, a light shaddow appearing infront of Loki, "She trusts you Loki" Frigga smiling at the picture of her son content, finally happy. "Keep her safe" "Always" he replied "Thank you mother" Frigga vanshed into the air, you shifted slightly againt Loki getting a little more comfortable. Closing his book he hovered his arm slightly above you, deciding to rest gently above you, he couldn't help but smile at the midguardian finding peace in the arms of a God.

Taglist

@plutoispurplw

[throughtrialbyfire]

𝐖𝐈𝐏 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 ♥

it's wednesday again!!!! i woke up weirdly early today lmao, and i've been editing all day.

tagged by the lovely @thequeenofthewinter ! <3

tagging the fantastic @skyrim-forever @umbracirrus @archangelsunited @saltymaplesyrup @orfeoarte

@oblivions-dawn @vivifriend @kookaburra1701 @changelingsandothernonsense @dirty-bosmer and anyone else who wishes to join in this week!! <3

this week, i bring a long (1.6k word) section of Chapter 42 of Cycle of the Serpent. the trio are on their way to Wolfskull Cave, and who knows what they'll find there… fun fact, this chapter (as of rough edits, not completed) is 11.5k words, my longest for the fic yet.

Clouds bowed over the distant horizon. The Sea of Ghosts had the peculiar honor of being a divide between Haafingar and Morthal, swamp and rocky shores, the flow of the saltwater carried into an estuary and the Karth River not too far from the Dragon Bridge lumber mill. Athenath thought of his father. He'd been a lumber worker when their mother had met him, and continued the line of work even when it took him away from the city of Anvil proper for days on end. He would come home, and sleep, and work, the post-Great War economy a wobbling, flightless thing, especially for the family of Mer. The map laid out the names of towns in dark ink, marked with the routes the trio had traced, spindly along the pre-illustrated paths. The road, which the trio had become familiar with and moreso by every trip out of the city, bore them west. The sun straggled through the mountains that crowded up one side of the way, laced through the limbs of the trees which bit down on a thick wind off the beach. Athenath pulled their knapsack tighter as his curls whipped at his cheek, scrunching their face as more tickled the back of his neck. The armor's stitching, courtesy of Emeros, held up well, and kept them warm. The leather held off the sun's burn and cold breeze, but in the summer-end heat, did its job a little too well in staving off the chill of the wind. Autumn was near its beginnings, however, and they could glean the slightest gold on the edges of the leaves. Hearthfire was near its end, as was the summer. Soon, the green grasses would grow brittle and flax-yellow, and the trees would be bare, aside from the evergreens and conifers that pinned the horizon together. Soon, maybe, this would all be over.

The inside-of-outside-of sensation which made the potent mixture of his distrust and revulsion had only grown in strength since the day before, as if it was coming to a grand crescendo. It snuck up on the Altmer, a spider on the shoulder or a whisper in the dark. He looked to Emeros and it coiled like an adder. He looked to Wyndrelis and it growled in warning like a dog. He looked to the sky and thought of the things the others had done to keep them alive, what they'd all done to keep one another alive, and it grew until it choked on its own ends, and suffocated under the weight of the reminders. The nights together in laughter or in silence, however few there were, still burnt brighter than what unseen hands tried to extinguish them. The cave was not far from the town of Dragon Bridge, past the farm where the chickens' clucking took up the air, along with the slightly sour, earthy-wet stench of livestock. The odor hung as the trio passed by, waving to the woman working to harvest what her garden had given her before it all went to ruin. The passing look of the idyllic spot before the sea, close to a town but just out of the way, brought back a gnawing of want for Riverwood. It was the first scant amount of peace that Athenath had experienced in this land, and the tall pines and looming mountains were a longing he couldn't put out of mind. Sure, there had been battle in the barrow and a hunt for a strange wolf and the skinning of it which left them nauseated and pale, but it was, in the hue of nostalgia, a fond memory. The time before the trek to Whiterun and the battle at the watchtower, the time before the Dragonborn. He did not want to know what it meant to carry that title. It wasn't theirs to take, they thought as they continued their leisurely pace in the middle of the other two, Emeros at the back, as though keeping watch for some invisible force, the Altmer's nerves on edge at the sight. Wyndrelis stepped in a slow stride, having spent early morning examining soul gems, most empty. He'd said something to himself about needing an enchantment table, and had scrutinized his mace while saying so, but all else had been nothing to the Altmer, who knew only the barest amount about magic. It was all around them, and for a high elf, knowing little magic was a shame, their ability with it ceasing at the fickle flame that they sometimes had luck in making with their fingers. But he'd had their excuses - raised in the Imperial province, in the time just after a war with elves, magic was a distrustful beast which skulked all around the air and deep into the earth. In the wake of such a war, Wyndrelis had not been daunted. He'd reached into the fabric of the world around them, took hold of the magic, and knit it into himself to make it his own.

And so had the wizards, stalking shadows of a cave hidden from the city and towns and farms, out of the way of all, and taking down ten men in one blow. Athenath swallowed dryly. The image of the cart full of stinking bodies wouldn't leave them, no matter how many times they scrubbed at their eyes with his curled fists and summoned spots to their vision. It was a mark in their mind like a long, broken scar. It took the story of the cave from tale to tangible. It made it real. And Athenath had, somewhere deep down, hoped it was merely myth. "We'll be heading up Mount Kilkreath," Emeros announced from his position at the rear, map clutched in his gauntlet-clad fingers. His gear made thin noises, cloth wrapping around the bottles inside his knapsack. Without his old experiments, he'd made more place for useful potions, and had been quick to purchase ingredients for healing and disease-cures, apparently spending the prior day after Athenath had stormed off in Angeline's Aromatics and working at the alchemy station and asking questions about the flora of Haafingar, where to find certain things, what she recommended for potency in the region, putting the hurried mixtures together. They would not be nearly as effective without time. Emeros had lamented the fact that morning while tucking them into his bag, sharpening his words until the warning was clear: that he would not be of much use if the other two became injured.

"That's not too far," Athenath remarked with a shrug and a small, apprehensive pause, "so Wolfskull Cave is close, then?" "It's practically across the road, we must have missed it by a mile or two the last time we were in the area." Wyndrelis grunted a small noise, as though this were his reply. As though he, too, were not at peace with the arrangement. They could have waited, or not gone to the cave at all. Captain Aldis was the authority in matters like this, but he was going to wait a whole two days to gather the people for the job. This was two days that none of the trio thought the city had. There was an electric quality to the air, like that shiver down the neck before a fearful wailing, that held the clouds at bay and kicked the roots up that grounded the trio's patience. The stench of rotten fruit and musty, humid chambers, the ache of the sleepless nights and the hum of a mood that wasn't theirs. The choice had fallen to the wayside long ago. "So, when we get there, what do we even do?" Athenath's question stuck in the air like a pin in a gown, the other two pausing, strides coming to a slow stop. The trio looked between one another, haggard eyes meeting haggard eyes. Emeros tightened a hand on the strap of his quiver slung over his waist, his bow in firm place on his back. "I'll take anything that's at a distance. I would recommend, however, we keep our heads down. We're merely here to investigate. Should we not see the need for combat, then we shouldn't make it necessary." Wyndrelis curled his lip. "Corpulus said something of wizards, correct?" A beat passed. A nod from the other two. "I don't expect this to be peaceful. I'll try to ward off spells, but you two will have to do the fighting, in that case." The warmth of Dawnbreaker collected in Athenath's awareness. The sword would serve them well if they went up against the undead, but weren't swords only as good as the swordsman? Their palms went clammy at the thought. They were not exactly a skilled swordsman, or fighter of any capacity. They preferred to hide in the shadows and dodge the light, to keep their footsteps quiet and to leave no trace of himself, not to fight up against anyone or anything.

Athenath tied their hair back with the scarlet ribbon in their pocket. He tightened it a handful of times to make sure it would hold, and drew in a long, tense breath. Their hair always had a habit of getting in his face at the wrong time. They wouldn't risk their own body betraying him in a moment of needed focus. "It's just up the way," Emeros looked to the figure of Meridia, the statue which grew closer with each step, "let's mind our surroundings and try to be quiet from this point onwards." The other two didn't reply, as though the idea had been taken to heart in the fullest extremes.

[victoria-daydreams]

The Hare and the Tower

Chapter Thirteen: Homecoming

AN: Don't hate me guys, I swear I was going to post this last week, but writer's block hit me right at the end of this chapter.

Trigger Warnings: age gap, vomiting

Word Count: 5.2k

Taglist: @dogmatic255 @sidechrisporn @amethystwonders11 @ladysindar @sweetwanderlust05 @newandykes @helloimlateforeverything @loveofvernonslife @stitchattacks @dariequeen @kishie8 @girlonfireice @snowymarvel1205 @greenlightower @harrypotteranna23-blog

If you want to be added to the taglist just leave a comment.

Summary: Vile accusations are levied. Friendships are tested. A marriage is strained.

Chapter Fourteen: Vile Rumors

117 AC, Westeros

The first thing Jesmyn was aware of as she sluggishly awakened, was the sound of rustling blankets to her left, and the slight dip of the mattress beneath her. Instinctively, her brows furrowed from the loss of her husband’s body heat.

"Mmm," Jesmyn hummed at the sudden shift beside her. "Otto?" she called sleepily, her eyes still closed.

She stirred slightly, pulling the covers closer around her body as if to keep the lull of sleep close to her. Almost instantly, a hand swept over her brow in a light caress.

"Go back to sleep love," Otto whispered warmly.

The suggestion was almost enough to gently pull her under, but instead she frowned.

"Why are you leaving bed?" Jesmyn questioned, rubbing her eyes and blinking until Otto eventually came into focus.

"There are matters I need to tend to," he answered vaguely.

"It's late," Jesmyn pointed out, with a soft sigh.

"I know, but this cannot wait,"

Carefully rolling onto her back, Jesmyn pushed herself up into a sitting position. In the low light provided by the moon, their chambers were dim and dark, but Jesmyn still managed to find the blue hues of Otto's eyes.

"What is it?" she asked, concern crossing her face.

"I cannot say Jesmyn," he replied, shaking his head.

"Otto—"

"All will be explained, later," he cut in, securing a loose strand of her hair safely behind her ear. He slid his hand over her shoulder and down to her chest, "Rest now, you and the babe need sleep," Otto said, touching just underneath her chin with his fingertips.

Her frown deepend, "Don’t patronize me," Jesmyn said, lightly slapping his hand away.

"It was never my intention to do so,"

"You are keeping things from me," she continued, her eyes narrowing.

Her mind began to wander into dangerous territory about what Otto was up to.

"Have you grown weary of me, Husband?" she questioned, her mouth drawing into a line. "Are you off to see another wom—"

Otto cupped her cheek in a soft caress and leaned his head down, planting his lips on hers.

"No, no, no!" he said, in between littering her face with kisses across her cheeks, jaw and forehead. "You foolish woman, I would never," Otto reassured. "As Lord Hand, my duties do not cease because it is nighttime, you know this,"

"I've never known them to wake you at the hour of the owl," she retorted, raising a brow. "This is new," she added.

"Because you sleep like the dead, Jesmyn," he quipped, gently grabbing both her wrists.

She smiled, "I do not!" Jesmyn replied, shaking her head and laughing.

"You most certainly do," Otto insisted, as she let him guide her to lying back on the mattress. "I'll be back shortly, love," he promised, before pressing his lips against hers in a quick, chaste kiss.

Otto started to pull away, but Jesmyn's hand shot out and gripped him by his tunic.

"You’ll be quick, yes?" she questioned, with a small tug that drew him back to her mouth. "Your Lady Wife does not approve of such late hours," she joked, her lips ghosting over his.

Otto offered her a smile once more, tinged with fondness and warmth.

"You'll hardly tell I left your side," he said, before pecking her lips. "I'll make it up to you," he promised, and she relinquished her grip on his tunic.

Standing up, Otto walked to their bed chamber door and glanced back at Jesmyn.

"Don't make me send a hunting party for you,"

With a breathless chuckle, Otto stepped out. Jesmyn yawned and closed her eyes, settling into bed once more with a tired wriggle before fully relaxing under the warmth of the thick covers.

~~~x~~~

"It-It’s a bad omen, I tell you," Jesmyn stated between heaves, feeling nausea build up within her again.

A new day had dawned in the Red Keep bringing about a bright morning sun amongst other things. Perched on the edge of her settee, Jesmyn’s face hovered over the chamber pot resting in her lap. She groaned, tightly gripping the sides of the chilled metal as sweat prickled her brow. Shakiness overcame her and with a grimace, Jesmyn felt her gut churn and gurgle. The pain was nearly unbearable.

"You've had morning sickness before milady," Jesmyn's chambermaid pointed out, setting a tray on the table in front of her.

"Not with this pregnancy, not until now," Jesmyn reminded breathlessly. "First, the Lord Hand never returned to our chambers and now, this," she continued, shaking her head. "I don't like this, I don't like this one bit,"

Jesmyn's body tensed, forcing her to close her eyes as her stomach gave another agonizing lurch.

"Gods!" she gasped.

That’s when a horrid taste filled her mouth. It was harsh and sour followed by a burning sensation in her throat, scratching as it went. Bile, is what she was feeling and the liquid was right in the back of her throat. And then it came. Jesmyn loudly hurled into the chamber pot with a wet, slopping sound. The act made Jesmyn’s whole body convulse as her vision blurred from the water welling in her eyes.

"How do you feel now, ma'am?"

Jesmyn gasped for breath, sending her into a coughing fit which wracked through her. After what seemed like an eternity, relief washed over her and she dared to breathe. It was over. The turbulent lurching in her stomach slowly eased.

"How do you think I feel?" Jesmyn snapped, her voice small and hoarse and a little dribble of drool escaped from the side of her mouth.

"Your tea milady, for your stomach," she said, gesturing to the tray. "And your nerves," she added.

Jesmyn set the pot onto the table and grabbed the porcelain cup. She winced slightly at the movement making her stomach churn again. With a groan, she raised the cup to her lips and closed her eyes, letting its warmth calm her.

She lowered the cup, "Pass me a handkerchief?" Jesmyn said, holding her hand out.

"Milady,"

Soft fabric was gently placed in her palm and Jesmyn brought the cloth to her face, dabbing at her mouth.

"Feeling better now, ma'am?"

"No, not really," Jesmyn answered bluntly. "But I’m not puking my insides out, so I must take my wins where I can receive them," she quipped, tossing the handkerchief onto the table.

"Is a bath in order?" the chambermaid questioned, with a smile.

"Quite so—"

Before she could finish her sentence, Otto stormed into the room as though appearing stage. Jesmyn's eyebrows raised at the forcefulness of his entry while Otto appeared to be stunned by the discovery that she was not alone.

"At long last, my husband returns," she quipped, her chambermaid curtsying immediately.

Otto's eyes darted to the chamber pot, "You're ill?" he commented, his tone soft.

"The delights of childbearing, my love," she said, placing her cup down. She glanced back over to her maid. "Draw a bath in my chambers," she ordered, and the young woman bowed her head.

With care, the chambermaid grabbed the pot and exited the room. Jesmyn's eyes flickered back to Otto studying him in curiosity. His face was paler than usual.

"How is it you look worse than I feel?" she asked humorously, standing up from her seat and moving over to him. Instinctively, his hands came to rest on her hips. "You broke your promise, you never rejoined me in bed,"

"I know, I’m sorry Jesmyn," Otto apologized, letting out an heavy exhale.

"What kept you from me?" she asked, tilting her head. He remained silent and the frown on his face only deepened. "Otto?" she called gently, cupping his cheek.

"It is most troubling news, dear wife," Otto responded, finally mustering up to speak.

"About?"

"Princess Rhaenyra,"

Her brows knit together and a chuckle left Jesmyn, "W-What about Rhaenyra?" she questioned, her hand dropping from his face.

"I must share some discomforting news with you about your friend," Otto said, sliding his palms up her waist to grab her hands. "Last night, Rhaenyra and Daemon were seen together...in the bowels of a pleasure den," he informed. "Coupling," Otto muttered, with a sigh.

Jesmyn jerked her head back, staring at him with wide eyes. She shook her head with a scoff and opened her mouth, but no words came out. It felt like the world had frozen over and everything gone still. Jesmyn's mind was tumbling over itself with hundreds of thoughts, too shocked to try to form a sentence. Silently, Otto stared at Jesmyn as his revelation dawned on her, sympathy in his gaze.

"No, that’s inconceivable," she disagreed, vigorously shaking her head. "Who would dare spread such wretched falsehoods?" Jesmyn asked angrily, her nose crinkling in disgust.

"I only wish it was a simple lie, Jesmyn," Otto stated. "But, a trusted source of mine relayed this me. They have never led me astray," he explained.

Jesmyn tugged her hands from his, "Your source?" she repeated, arching a brow. "Have you been having Rhaenrya spied upon?" she asked lowly, her face incredulous.

She was utterly stunned she was just learning about this. Otto reached for her hands, but she snatched them out of his grasp.

"I have, but—"

"Don't!" Jesmyn said sharply, swatting him away. "Spare me your shit justifications, Otto!" she hissed. "This is treason!" she exclaimed quietly. "Did you even consider how this could affect me? Our children?" she wondered. "King Viserys would be well in his rights to think I’m apart of this conspiracy, being your eyes and ears,"

"I would have not let any harm come your way," Otto asserted.

"If this is you avenging me for Daemon’s wrongdoing, then I do not want it!" she said, chuckling bitterly. "Not if it’s you deciding to destroy Rhaenyra’s honor as collateral,"

"This is not what this is!" Otto argued, his eyes not leaving her, begging her to believe him.

"You think yourself clever, don’t you?" she asked, letting out a sardonic laugh. "I know you Husband, and I know how meticulous you’ve been trying to subtly plant seeds of doubt in my mind about Rhaenyra," she continued. "How she is unfit to be heir to the throne, unfit to be my friend even," she recalled. "Your ambition truly knows no bounds, Otto. And I see now, there’s no line you wouldn’t cross to put Aegon on the throne,"

"Jesmyn, I would never lie to you," Otto stressed. "Not about this," he implored.

Those blue eyes she had once always found to be so trusting, now she could only stare into them and search for the slightest sign of even further deceit.

"How kind of you to make me privy to what is a lie or truth when you deem it necessary," Jesmyn remarked sarcastically, and he took a step forward. "No, don't touch me! You broke your promise!" she said, moving backwards in response and finally tearing her eyes from his.

"Look at me," he demanded softly, and she shook her head. Suddenly, his fingers lightly gripped her chin and guided her eyes to his. "I do not relish in this, giving you such news when you’re already in a delicate state," he declared, glancing down to her belly. "What do I gain by hurting you and the King?" he questioned.

"Everything!" Jesmyn responded quickly. "You claim you’d never lie to me, and yet lies keep spilling from your lips!" she snapped. "You can't help yourself, Otto," she breathed, pulling away from his hold.

Lifting the skirts of her night shift and robe, Jesmyn turned to leave when she felt fingers encircle her wrist, gently spinning her around.

"Jesmyn please—"

"No, continue as you were Otto, do whatever you think will get your blood on the Iron Throne. Please, don't mind me," Jesmyn encouraged, before walking off and nudging his hand away in the process. "It certainly hasn’t stopped you before,"

~~~x~~~

"Otto?" she whispered, before placing a chaste kiss on his lips then moving down his jaw.

"Hm?" he hummed, raising an eyebrow.

"Promise me this," she said, her breath tickling his ear. "We will never keep secrets from each other," she continued, kissing down his neck. "They are the bedrock for unhappy marriages and misery," she added, nipping at his collarbone.

Otto lifted his arms up and cupped his hands around her cheeks, guiding her head to meet his stare.

"Always, Jesmyn. I promise,"

Grinning toothily, Jesmyn rested her head on his chest, her ear directly over his heart. She burrowed further into Otto, mindlessly running her nails down his chest, letting her fingers brush against his chest hair.

"Good," she said softly.

"Jesmyn!"

She stopped in her tracks, her heart jumping at Alicent’s voice suddenly calling out to her. Jesmyn blinked her eyes rapidly to orient herself. So deep in her daze, she hadn’t realized where her feet had led her. With a deep inhale, she made her way over to the Queen. As she approached, Jesmyn studied her friend's face. It was a mixture between worry, anger, and desperation, but then her expression would morph into something akin to dread and almost contemptuous. It set Jesmyn on edge, and the same sense of uneasiness with Otto hit her with full force.

Jesmyn entered into the Godswood, "Alicent, I’m sorry I didn't notice your presence," she said. "I was so lost in thought," she explained.

"Are you well?" Alicent asked.

"This morning sickness has not limited itself to only the morn," Jesmyn quipped, and Alicent laughed softly. "And," she continued, with a sigh. "Your father and I, had a bit of an argument earlier,"

"What?" Alicent said, a frown drawing her eyebrows together in worry. "What about?"

"No, please don't work yourself up Alicent," Jesmyn assured, placing a hand on top of hers. "Marital spats are bound to happen," she added, with a weak smile on her face.

Jesmyn let her hand slip from Alicent's, but she reached out and clutched Jesmyn’s back into her hands.

"Alicent? What's wrong?" Jesmyn asked softly.

"Your argument with Father, was it about Rhaenyra?" Alicent guessed, her voice dropping to a whisper.

Jesmyn's eyes widened, quickly looking around, "Did Otto tell you?" she asked.

Alicent shook her head, "No, I overheard him this morning when he told Viserys,"

"Surely you don’t think it's true Alicent?" Jesmyn whispered.

"You’ve come to know Father well enough, Jesmyn. He would never lie—" Alicent stopped, her eyes catching something behind Jesmyn's shoulder. She released an unsteady breath. "Please stay, you've always been best at mediating,"

Alicent let go of Jesmyn's hand and straightened her posture. Turning around, Jesmyn saw it was Rhaenyra making her way over to them which caught Alicent’s attention.

"What happened last night?" Alicent asked, her tone serious as she stared pointedly at Rhaenyra.

Rhaenyra stopped mid step, "What do you mean?"

"My father has made some worrying allegations about you. Were you with your uncle?" Alicent asked again.

Just the mention of Daemon made Jesmyn’s back stiffen, her stomach twist, but she kept up her expression neutral and glanced from Alicent to Rhaenyra.

Rhaenyra smiled, "Oh, I—I haven't seen him in years. He took me into the city for some fun," she explained simply.

Alicent took a few steps towards her, "Tell me the whole of it, Rhaenyra," she demanded.

Rhaenyra's eyebrows rose slightly, "Your father accused me of something. That I drank wine? Left the castle after dark?" she questioned.

"That you fսckеd Daemon in a pleasure house,"

Rhaenyra recoiled, the color in her face blanching, "This is a vile accusation!" she breathed.

"Is it?" Alicent retorted. "You Targaryens do have queer customs. And Daemon certainly knows no limit," she pointed out.

Silently, Jesmyn's eyes slid over to Rhaenyra as she closed the distance between herself and the two of them. "Alicent—Your Grace—Jesmyn, you must know I would—I would never. You cannot believe such gossip,"

"My father is no gossip," Alicent responded quickly.

"Well, certainly he's been misled. He could not have witnessed such a thing,"

"Why not?"

"Because it did not happen," Rhaenyra stressed, her eyes bouncing from Alicent to Jesmyn.

"He was told that you—" Alicent began

"Told?" Rhaenyra echoed, leaning back a little. "Who made these claims to your father?" Alicent fell silent, eliciting a quiet scoff from Rhaenyra. The princess moved past Alicent and closer to Jesmyn. "Jesmyn?" Rhaenyra questioned, and Jesmyn only nodded in response. "I am the Princess. To question my virtue is an act of treason," she reminded, turning back to Alicent.

The passion Jesmyn had seen in Alicent's face as she condemned Rhaenyra was nowhere to be found now, it had been replaced by hesitance and uncertainty.

"I do not know specifically—"

"Your father did not tell you?" Rhaenyra cut her off.

"He reported it to the King. I overheard," Alicent explained.

Silence swept over the Godswood. Nothing stirred; no birds chirped, no creatures moved. Everything was frozen, as if an unforeseen threat lurked nearby.

"So you are accusing me of slanders...you overheard?" Rhaenyra asked, breaking the stillness.

Alicent moved over to Rhaenyra, "I only want to help you, Rhaenyra," she said, desperation in her voice.

Rhaenyra's shoulders deflate, almost as if in surrender. "Okay," she said, letting out a sigh. "We—we drank in a tavern. Several taverns. It was getting late and I asked to go home. But Daemon wished to continue. As he was my escort, I had no real choice,"

"Continue," Alicent said, glancing down for a moment before she looked back at Rhaenyra. "In a brоthеl?" she asked, her probing gaze unflinching.

"He took me to a show. I..." she trailed off with a huff and gazed at Jesmyn almost as if silently asking for guidance, but Rhaenyra was met with no answer from Jesmyn, only her lips drawn into a thin line. Rhaenyra turned toward to Alicent. "I was only a spectator. I didn't do anything," she continued, voice rising a little before pausing briefly. "And then Daemon sank into his cups and abandoned me for some whore," she said, with a slight scowl. Rhaenyra fell silent, shaking her head a little. "I should've known better," she finished.

Alicent doesn't look at Rhaenyra, "So you did not?" she asked.

"Must I truly refute that?" Rhaenyra whispered.

"Yes, for both of our sakes," Jesmyn said, finally speaking up.

Rhaenyra looked between them, "Daemon never touched me. I swear this to you two upon the memory of my mother,"

Alicent stared at Rhaenyra for a moment before nodding, eyes anguished. "It was foolish of you to place yourself in a position where your virtue could even come into question," she continued, her voice becoming steadier. "The King has strived to find you a good match— and so have I. If that lord were to think that you had been— sullied," the word catches in her throat, "It would ruin everything,"

"I know," Rhaenyra whispered, looking down for a moment. "Your Grace. I regret it," she added.

Jesmyn extended both of her hands out for Alicent and Rhaenyra to take.

"We are to put this behind us, yes?" Jesmyn asked, glancing at the two of them as they took her hands. "Now that this has been cleared up,"

"Yes," Rhaenyra replied firmly

"Agreed," Alicent said, with a nod.

"Good," Jesmyn whispered.

~~~x~~~

"Vanesha, my sweet girl, how are you?" Jesmyn asked, her tone taking on a higher pitch.

Vanesha cooed in response, reaching insistently for her finger. Jesmyn indulgently obliged, handing over the digit, which her daughter immediately seized on and began to teeth on. Sitting on the floor in her shared quarters, a bright smile adorned Jesmyn’s face as she watched Tobin crawled around being entertained by nursemaids.

"I think it’s close to the little one’s nap time," the nursemaid commented, playing with one of Tobin’s wooden toys.

"Five more minutes," Jesmyn begged, with a chuckle and kissed her daughter's head.

She lightly pulled her finger from Vanesha’s tiny hand. Waving her index finger around her face, the girl let out a light whine as she reached out to Jesmyn’s finger and tried to take it into her mouth.

"Look at my precious boy," Otto stated warmly, entering into the room.

Jesmyn paused, lifting her head up to look at Otto with a wary stare. Noticing his father near him, Tobin quickly changed his course and crawled towards Otto. The older man's smile only grew as he scooped him up into his arms, hearing the boy giggle and making bubbles.

"Husband," Jesmyn greeted curtly, as the two nursemaids scrambled to their feet to curtsy. Carefully cradling Vanesha, she stood up. "I wasn't expecting you," she said, handing their daughter to one of the nursemaids.

"It's their nap time, Lord Hightower," the nursemaid informed gently.

Otto rocked Tobin in his arms, "Yes, of course," he responded, leaning down he kiss his cheek.

Tobin giggled in response as the nursemaid scooped baby from Otto into her arms.

"Milord, milady," the nursemaid said, with another curtsy before taking their leave.

Interlocking her fingers together, she rested them on her stomach, "I thought you'd still be at your desk working," Jesmyn commented. "Or scheming gods knows what," she added snarkily.

"We need to talk,"

She gave a small snort, "I think we said all we need too," Jesmyn replied. "What else is—" she started, but was cut off by a knock on the door. "Enter!" she shouted.

"Lord and Lady Hightower," the servant girl said walking in and curtsied.

"What is it?" Otto asked impatiently.

"Lady Hightower, I-I have a message from the King," the servant answered, and Jesmyn's and Otto's eyes met immediately.

In all the walks Jesmyn had taken in her life, one had never felt as long as the one she made to the council room. It was there she found herself alone with the King of Westeros, staring at her with neither malice or sadness. And for that very reason, Jesmyn was on edge.

"How does your babe fair, Lady Hightower?" King Viserys asked, sincerity behind his question.

"Well, Your Grace. A little bit of morning sickness, but nothing I couldn't handle," Jesmyn answered, placing her palm on the small bump. "Thank you for asking King Viserys," she said, the corners of her mouth quirking up into a smile.

He smiled back, albeit it was strained, "That's good," he said, with a nod. "Jesmyn, I shall speak plainly. You have always remained a friend to Rhaenyra even when she was not one to you. And I thank for you that, truly," he continued, moving away from his chair at the head of the council table. "And since you are a good friend of the Princess, and wife to the Lord Hand, I must know what you know about this rumor," he said, now standing directly in front of her.

She swallowed deeply, "It's true Your Majesty, I have heard the rumor from my husband," Jesmyn admitted, and King Viserys cocked his brow with an expectant look. "However, I do not know what to believe. This alleged event came only came from Otto's source, a third party,"

"Did you know about this source, Jesmyn?" he questioned, linking his arms behind his back.

"No, never," Jesmyn answered, shaking her head. "Today is the first I'm hearing of it, Your Grace," she added.

"But, you do understand Lord Hightower's motive behind his actions?" King Viserys asked again.

"I do, Your Grace, more than you know," Jesmyn agreed, sighing heavily. "May I speak plainly, King Viserys?" she asked.

"Please," he encouraged.

"My husband is an ambitious man, on that we both agree," Jesmyn said., and he nodded. "However, Otto wouldn't lie about something as serious of what he's alleging without having proof," she continued. "If this information were true, then..." she trailed off nervously.

"Then what, Lady Hightower?" King Viserys asked shortly. "Speak!" he yelled, causing Jesmyn to wince.

"He means to have Princess Rhaenyra declared unfit as heir and would see Prince Aegon named instead," she informed, watching the King's nostrils flare slightly. "And by His Majesty's reaction, I believe you know that as well," she remarked quietly.

"So, I ask you again Jesmyn. Do you believe this rumor told to you by the Lord Hand?"

"I've known Princess Rhaenyra since I was a young girl, and there were times I would characterize her behavior as reckless, but never to this degree, King Viserys," Jesmyn said. "Prince Daemon though—" she started, but the King sent her a withering look. She would have to tread very carefully with her words. "If this rumor were to be true, I believe Prince Daemon brought the Princess to that brothel as an unknowing participant in a scheme to ruin her name and was hoping someone would see her," she theorized. "Only, that someone was a spy for my husband, the Lord Hand," she finished, her voice lowered to a self-conscious mutter.

"You believe she’s telling the truth?" King Viserys questioned, and for a moment, Jesmyn thought she could hear desperation in his voice. As if he needed to physically hear the words leave her lips to convince himself.

"I do, Your Majesty. She swore to me,"

~~~x~~~

"King Viserys, I recognize I'm in no position to ask this, but spare my husband. I beg of you,"

Knocking back the last few drops of wine in her goblet, Jesmyn let out a deep exhale and shut her eyes.

"Fuck me," she breathed, wiping the corners of her mouth with her thumb.

Besides her labors and subsequent near death experience, this had been the most stressful day in Jesmyn's life and she prayed for none to follow. She could only imagine what was transpiring between Otto and King Viserys. There had been no time for words to be exchanged when she saw her husband being escorted to the council room as she was leaving from it. The only thing her and Otto could share was worried glances as they passed each other. Would King Viserys strip her husband of his title as Lord Hand? Would he execute—no, she mustn’t let her thoughts turn to such horridness. For all of Otto’s faults, he was still good man, a good husband, and a good father.

Maybe, the King will be lenient on Otto. Up until now, he had served his position dutifully. Jesmyn just needed to receive a word, any word about her husband’s well being and she would be able to cross one worry off her ever-growing list from today’s events. Suddenly, the door slammed closed to their quarters, the unexpected bang almost causing her goblet to slip from her grip.

Jesmyn placed her cup down, "Otto?" she called, walking towards the entryway of the sitting room. "Is that you my love? I've been—" she began, but stopped after nearly slamming into the velvet material of Otto's doublet.

Her hands braced themselves on Otto’s chest and she chuckled softly to herself. Jesmyn’s smile faded as she realized where her left hand was resting, she did not the feel the coolness of Otto’s pin. She looked up only to meet the narrowed eyes of Otto already glaring back at her.

"Otto, where is your pin?" Jesmyn asked, her breath unsteady.

"What did you say to the King?" Otto asked back, it was a barely hidden snarl from behind clenched teeth.

"Only the truth," she answered, backing away from him. An airy laugh left her and she shook her head, having an inkling on where the conversation was going. She could see the blame in his eyes. "Are you truly going to try and blame me for your loss of station?" she questioned, her eyebrows raised in disbelief.

"You chose Rhaenyra over me!" Otto shouted, his nostrils flaring and his temples rippling with anger. "She ignored you for three years and yet you still chose her!"

"No! I remained a loyal subject to my King and his future heir!" Jesmyn shot back, pointing at him. "A difficult concept for you to follow it seems," she retorted.

"I am your husband—"

"And they're the royal family, our superiors!" Jesmyn interrupted. "You should be grateful, your head yet remains on your shoulders! I, your wife, is the reason it remains so,"

"Ha!" Otto laughed, clasping his hands together. "You think your words have any type of sway over the King?" he questioned mockingly.

"Yes Otto, I do!" Jesmyn exclaimed. "King Viserys still has confidence in me, can he say the same about you?" she sneered.

Otto's cheeks flared red, "We are to leave the palace soon," he informed stiffly. "Begin your packing, Wife," he instructed, turning his back to her.

"No," Jesmyn responded calmly.

He swiftly spun around, his thick brows furrowed with deep displeasure, "What do you mean, 'no'?"

She took a step forward, "While you have been dismissed from your position Husband, I gained one," Jesmyn stated matter of factly. "Princess Rhaenyra has offered me to be her lady-in-waiting and I accepted," she continued. "So, I will remain here at the palace, as well as Vanesha and Tobin," she explained, as Otto approached her.

"This is ludicrous!" Otto hissed. "A married noblewoman remaining at court while her husband returns home? Do you wish to bring shame to our good name?"

"I think you’ve done that well enough by yourself Otto," she hissed back.

The blue of his irises hardened black as his jaw tightened. There was a moment of silence before he turned away from Jesmyn.

"Do not join me in my chambers tonight," Otto said, not facing her.

Jesmyn's eyes widen, feeling a sharp twinge in her chest as if her heart was twisting around itself. Time slowed as she processed his words, and her determination faded into terror. Her nose began to burn with tears she was holding back and she shook her head as she watched Otto start to walk away. Jesmyn followed behind him, her hand reaching out to grip his bicep, but in her attempt to stop Otto she failed. As soon as her fingers brushed against his arm, he shrugged her off and left the room.

Jesmyn's mouth trembled, feeling like the wind was knocked out of her. A whimper involuntarily left her mouth, unaccustomed to the feeling of such emptiness. Her shoulders began shaking like a leaf while her breath came out in uneven, rapid bursts. Jesmyn's mouth opened to yell Otto's name, but the only sound that came out was a light sob. Teary eyes flickered across the room, Jesmyn's chest heaving erratically before she completely broke down into tears. Hoarse, gut-wrenching sobs shudder out of her body which caused her knees to buckle and sink onto the floor.

Hot, salty droplets continued their journey down Jesmyn's face and she wanted to scream until her lungs gave out; until it was impossible she couldn't make a sound. Another desperate, hiccuping sob racked through her as she faced a terrifying realization. For the first time in Jesmyn's life, the fear of losing her beloved husband became all too real. Her heart ached, the pain was overwhelming and it seeped into her soul.

Jesmyn had told the truth, but at what cost of her marriage.

Chapter Fifteen: We Light the Way

[l3xdrigo]

Since it's my birthday today and whatnot, this is gonna be a special post :D. I'm gonna show some drabbles and short stories that I've been wanting to share for a while so enjoy.

(also thank you to that one moot(@acesw) that has probably read most of these already and has suffered through my ramblings, appreciate you a lot<3)

(Most of these are Vernetto and Vertin-centric cuz they've been taking over my mind for months)

"Familiar"

It's over, the fight between the storm and Manus, it was all over. Many are bloodied, injured and tired yet cheered for their victory. Just outside the Manus's hide out was a new world that will greet them, time will no longer move backwards yet only forward. Opening the door, many arcanist and some humans alike rushes out, yet a figure stood still in front of the open door. What a familiar sight, someone steps outside and looks back and holds out their hand "Timekeeper.. It's okay now, we won, let's go and see the outside world together. Where we are all free" Vertin gave a smile, a somber smile, "I would love that.. but unfortunately I can't join you.."

A click inside the darkness of the building

" I'm sorry Sonetto, enjoy your freedom"

A loud bang echoed into the walls.

doesn't this feel so familiar for you, little puppy.

Sonetto was in a state of shock, her mind not processing what happened as the blood seeped out and spread. "Sonetto! What are you standing there for, come get Vertin and come over here" Lilya was the one who shouted, being meters away from them but her voice still reached her ears. Then, the whole situation sinked in... Sonetto dropped to her knees as it seemed all the strength left in her body was gone.

The hound couldn't protect her, it's bellwether.

(Or the foundation didn't need their timekeeper anymore, so time to let her rest)

"Aftermath"

The last drop of rain had risen and the sun began to rise, the storm was over. Bodies gone and only clothing was left, the Manus's dark ink-like substance stained the concrete ground. After grueling hours and days of fighting, it was all over, time is moving forward again, both sides had an abundance of followers and martyrs fighting for two seperate cause, they all fought rigorously yet only one remained.

Vertin on her knees stayed there, unable to move as fatigue and the strain of injuries took a toll, but also loneliness. She fought side by side with her team, her family, her herd but she was the only one remaining. Sotheby, Lilya,Regulus, Ms. Druvis, Mr. Apple.. Sonetto, they were all gone, her suitcase was destroyed, the arcanist and humans she's grown accustomed to were also gone. Was it worth it? For the mission of returning to the present but to lose everything to the past.

"One man shall fall and one man shall live to bear the consequences of thy sins" were the last words that left Arcana; the mission is over, take off your hat and face the scene in front, repent and walk to the light, a new tomorrow awaits you, Vertin.

("Are we all alone once again"- The Gleaming)

"Longing"

Sonetto was walking through the halls, passing staff members and managers and exchanging greetings. She was called to get on set today as they needed to record a new scene for the show "Reverse 1999"

Being a part of this project has been great, she's met a lot of directors and producers with a platter of amazing ideas, actors who have made some show-stopping scenes with their talents and.. as she opens the door, there she is. Vertin, with her ash-gray hair tied up in a messy bun, wearing her outfit as the Timekeeper of the show, just minus the coat, talking with one of the managers, smiling and giggling at times as they both talk about how a recent interview went. Oh how gorgeous she was, even after all these years, Vertin was still the one who holds Sonetto's heart captive and it's both a heart warming yet painful feeling.

Both of them have been friends since they were 4, it took Sonetto to grow fond of Vertin as she's been known to be quite a troublemaker but eventually she warmed up to her antics, even if she had to get her out of them most of the time. They both shared a passion for arts and literature, they were interested in theater and would watch them as their bond grew more and more throughout the years. Those times had to end however, as Sonetto flew abroad for college, leaving Vertin and the rest of her friends behind. She's gotten busy and due to that, both her and Vertin have somewhat drifted away from each other, the regret is still eating her even today, to be able to go back in time and fix that mistake. Now, Vertin has grown into an amazing actress and also has made a lot of new friends, she's met some of them, like a girl named Schneider, a bit of a flirt but she's great. There were times where she has gotten a bit envious of their bond, to be able to be so close to Vertin and not feel like her airways collapsed when she tried to utter a word.

She's here now but the distance still feels far, funny isn't it, she thought, 'how are characters we play fight against the reversal of time yet all I want is to go back and experience the past we had before' Sonetto could only sigh deeply, taking one last glance before one of the staff had called her, maybe she wasn't so different from the character she plays.

(Or maybe it wasn't just the lack of communication but another event that left them distant; actor au)

"How the moon stares at the sun"

Vertin stared at Sonetto as she smiles in the sunlight, gently reaching out to a butterfly. Sonetto looked ethereal, her orange hair slightly flowing in the wind, green eyes almost shining as brightly as the sun. Vertin knew how beautiful Sonetto was before ever since they were children of the foundation but right now really proved that thought a hundred times more. Warmth spreading to her cheeks as she just stared at her for what felt like an eternity but the moment Sonetto looked back at her, she immediately hid behind the safety of her hat.

"Timekeeper, are you alright?"

"... yes Sonetto, I am fine"

Sonetto tilted her head a bit, like a curious puppy who's also worried. It took a while for the "stoic" timekeeper to regain her composure again, though still feeling her heart beating like a drum.

"Let's go back shall we, Sonetto"

"Of course timekeeper!"

Sonetto happily followed as Vertin gave a small smile;the moon cannot shine without its sun.

(Look, lesbians)

"Reversed"

Vertin fought against forget me not and some manus followers, both are in equal battle but Fmn has the upper hand, catching Vertin off guard and using an attack that exploded a chunk of the right side of her head to bits. Her body falls to the ground, blood seeping almost immediately as in Fmn eyes, he won, she's dead, there's no way she could get up now, the deep wounds of the fight and a good chunk of her head and skull destroyed, she's dead. They retreat as the storm is here, leaving the timekeeper's body to rot.

As raindrops rise from the ground, it hits the corpse, but instead of just rising to the top, some of the raindrops were starting to affect the body. Vertin is immune to the storm's effects, but it seems that some part of that was false. Colorful liquid like substance starts to form on the sounds and the side of her head, being reversed to their original state, slowly but surely. Reversing the atoms and nerves and bringing life to her once more. She awoke again after a while, breathing heavily as the storm do it's job. Slightly touching the side of her head that was originally exploded, it still feels like liquid but she can feel some part of the bones restoring, it's best not to touch it as it actually quite hurts. Slowly getting up, and seeing the Manus nowhere to be found, she needs to head back to her team, she's worried that the Manus might try to do something.

Fmn attacks were getting stronger as the timekeeper squad casted incantation after incantation, just when Forget me not was going to land a tremendous attack, a strong attack from behind the head was enough to knock him out. The group looked at the source of the attack and spotted a familiar blue hat, Vertin stood there, clothes bloodied and parts of her body weirdly had clusters of colorful liquid. They stared for a moment, not really knowing how to process.

"I'm guessing you would like to know what happened?"

"I- YES WE WOULD LIKE TO KNOW"

Regulus quickly answered back, Vertin internally sighed, this is going to be a long explanation.

(Vertin being able to heal in the storm was an interesting idea I've had)

"Clinging onto a thread"

As Vertin, Regulus, Sonetto, Mr. Apple and lilya are walking to Madam Z's office after getting back from the island and that god-forsaken first field mission, Vertin speaks up.

"Umm...Regulus, you know it's okay to let go of me now right? "

Regulus could be seen clinging onto Vertin's left arm and Mr. Apple was holding onto a small part of Vertin's hat, she shook her head.

"Nah mate, from the amount of bull crap we just went through, I'm not letting you go. And besides, I'm not the only one clinging to you"

At her right, Sonetto could also be seen clutching at her arm, looking somewhat calm but the way she firmly holds her arm says otherwise.

Vertin just stays silent for a while, and continues to walk. It would be pretty hypocritical of her to make them let go, as she herself has been holding Lilya's hand, the eagle has been guiding them back the entire time.

(It's crazy to think that the island thing was their first-field mission)

"Can you please stop taking their timekeeper away every 5 minutes"

The timekeeper squad was in Madam Z's room, currently talking about some important matters as there was a knock on the door, Madam Z gave the permission to enter as a foundation staff walked into the room.

"excuse me Madam Z, we need to take the Timekeeper for a few moments to evaluate some reports about the recent storm."

The staff was immediately bombarded with questions.

Regulus: You're taking her already?? When will she come back?

Foundation staff: in maybe a few hours

Lilya: And how long are those "few" hours?

Foundation staff: it is estimated to be around 1 or 2 if the evaluation goes smoothly

Sotheby: You're not going to bring her anywhere else right?

Foundation staff: of course not, just to the research Center.

Druvis: After the evaluation, is there anything else she would do after?

Foundation staff: umm,, it depends but I'm certain that it's only an evaluation, nothing more after that.

The foundation staff looks at Madam Z if she can take the timekeeper who's been standing next to the foundation staff and seemingly waiting patiently.

"Just let her take her leave as soon as the evaluation is over, but other than that, yes the both of you may be excused."

The two left the room and it felt very awkward. Vertin apologized for what happened, telling the poor staff that they were just worried about her after the recent events, the staff brushed it off, saying that it's fine. Though deep inside it was incredibly scary, even the Apple seemed intimidating.

(Can we please stop taking their timekeeper away, they need her as much as she needs them🥹)

"Sleeping in"

Vertin slowly woke up, the fresh sunlight hitting here skin through the windowsill of her room. It's been a few days since the disastrous mission that her team just went through, being put on break as all recovers. Something was missing, or she should say someone, getting up groggily, she drags her body out of bed and outside her room. After walking in the suitcase for a bit, she spots what she was missing, Sonetto.

She spotted her right away and was about to greet her when Vertin wrapped her arms around her waist, bringing her to a hug. Sonetto lets out a small squeak from the unexpected action but quickly recovers and wraps her arms around her as well. "Are you still tired? " the timekeeper only let out a small hum as a response, the two have gotten closer since that mission, finding it hard when both were seperated, so the two prompted to sleep in together, not like both of them minded it(Sonetto was a flustered mess at first but hey, she's fine) . Finding comfort and solace with one another, through their aching pains and injuries, both have enjoyed each other's company and warmth.

Sonetto looks at one of the clocks for the time, it still seems too early for the two of them to be up, the rest of their team still asleep. "It seems a bit too early for you to be up timekeeper, would you like to head back to bed?" Earning another hum from the timekeeper, both make their way back to the bedroom. Maybe sleeping in wouldn't be so bad, they are on break after all.

(They deserve some eepy and cuddles. Again, lesbians)

(Idk if I'll add more to this later but damn this took a while)

[alexusonfire]

WHAT ABT LADY JANE?

I'm asking for some cuteness with Lady Jane and some smut, let your creativity flow! take your time in this.

Moments In The Woods

Lady Jane x bounty hunter!Reader

A/n: I definitely took my time with this, I'm so sorry 🤣 Fluffy, with a hint of smut (I've been hitting a huge block with smut, so I'm terribly sorry if this wasn't what you were looking for 🥹).

"Won't a fire alert them to where we are?"

"Well since we're not anywhere near them, no."

Despite all of it however, as you watched her pull herself back standing and brush off the dirt from her knees, there's nowhere else you'd rather be.

Her blunt tone made you scoff, and you fell back into silence as she stoked the fire to life, crouched down on her knees to blow into the barely lit embers. Darkness had rapidly fallen on surrounding forest, she too focused on the hunt and you too focused on her to notice.

Lady Jane had taken you under her wing a few months back, an outbreak from the camps proving to be a bit too difficult to handle on her own. Instead of having to share majority of the profits with another skilled Bounty Hunter, she'd taken on you, freshly inducted and thoroughly clueless as to what you'd gotten yourself into. The first bit was rough, bordering uncomfortable, as Lady Jane wasn't used to someone "lagging along", but over time she'd grown rather fond of you, your ability to pick things up quickly and humurous wit endearing her to you. Now here you sat, shivering slightly on a half-fallen log in the middle of god-knows-where as she attempted to get some sort of dinner started.

She slumped down beside you, exhaustion from the long trek finally settling in, and she thunked her head into your shoulder, trusting you to keep an eye out for any threats so she could rest a moment. The fire crackled and popped before you, the lively dance of the flames soothing the chill that permeated the air, and you nearly thought Jane had accidentally fallen asleep momentarily until she spoke.

"You've been far away today little bird. What's got your tongue?"

"It's getting harder and harder to track them, and they seem to be getting more resourceful. Aren't you ever worried we might be on the losing side now?"

The nickname made you smile. It had come about after another hunter referred to you as "Lady Jane's awkward fledgling"; at first she'd teased you, but had since continued to use it as a term of endearment throughout your companionship. You idly fidgeted with one of the many thick rings on her hand before clearing your throat to answer her question, nervous of what the answer may be.

She chuckled at that, adjusting herself so she could pull you into her arms and place you comfortably between her legs. Gentle nips and kisses were pressed along your neck and collarbone, and you sighed into the affection.

"I have little to worry about when I have you like this, birdie."

You rolled your eyes playfully, knowing full well the intention behind her words. Sure enough, her hands tickled their way up your hips to the button of your jeans, pausing, waiting-

"Yes."

She grinned at your confirmation, her heart doing "that damned fluttery thing" when you reached over to gently pulled the rings off her fingers for both your comfort. She continued to nip at the space between neck and shoulder, and you let out a pleased huff as the pads of her fingertips gently stroked you, pinching and circling at just the right moments to have you squirming. Normally she tried to keep you quiet, lest your pleas reach unwanted ears, but tonight, as she held you close under the moon, her only desire was to hear you. Your head fell back on her shoulder, a high-pitched whine echoing off the trees as she slipped inside you. Her pace quickened, a small bubble of pride erupting in her chest as you finally came undone, her name tumbling from your lips. She kissed your forehead and cheeks as you attempted to catch your breath, and you couldn't help but chuckle at the self-satisfied smirk she gave you before licking her fingers clean.

"Nothing to worry about indeed."