#if he wants to lecture me I’ll get down on my knees and say sorry daddy 😌

[rickybaby]

‘F**K THAT GUY’ - RICCIARDO FURIOUS WITH STROLL’S CRASH REACTION

[longlivejemily]

After Office Hours

Pairing: Professor! Spencer Reid x Fem!Reader

Reader goes to her favorite professor hoping to find ways to improve her grade. He has some unconventional extra credit opportunities in mind...

WC: 1.3k

Warning: Student/teacher relationship, slight sub/dom dynamics, semi public sex, thigh riding, use of y/n, use of “baby’ and “little girl” plz let me know if i’m missing any!

You’re running down the hallway of the law building at your university silently begging that your professor is still there. As you approach the door, he’s exiting, keys in hand. “Wait, Professor Reid! I’m here! Don’t go!” You call out to him closing the last yards of space between you. “Miss y/l/n you’re late, office hours are over.” “No Dr. Reid you don’t understand! My statistics professor wouldn’t let us leave until we finished the lesson on probability distributions! I told him I had office hours to get to and he didn’t care. Please Dr. Reid I really need to talk to you about my grade!” He puts his hands in his pockets and sighs while gears are turning in his head. “Fine, for you I’ll make an exception.” “Thank you thank you.” You try not to read too much into his comment as he opens the door, “after you.” You don’t notice that he locks the door after following you in. 

As he sits across from you at the desk, you pull out your physical midterm paper all marked up in red ink. “I thought I grasped this concept so well! I don’t understand how I got a C-.” “Y/N, you got a stressor and trigger backward. You failed to accurately explain the concept. The points you did get were from the passion in your writing. I appreciated the way you wrote, but I couldn’t give you a higher grade. I’m sorry.” 

“Professor, I have a 3.5 GPA and I can’t have that drop, especially not from my favorite class!” He clasps his hands under his chin with his elbows below him. “Miss y/l/n, it seems you have been struggling in this class for a while now. I see how hard you work but you have narrowly maintained a B-. If this is your favorite class, why didn’t you come to office hours sooner?” “I-” Your mind is moving too fast to form an answer. You look down at the ground and can’t help but press your thighs together. You’ve only had a few moments in such close proximity to Professor Reid before, and definitely not alone. His eyes seem to darken, “Do I make you nervous?” You just press your legs further together “Umm..” “Come here.” He says in a soft yet demanding tone while scooting his chair back. When you walk over to him he gestures towards his lap. “Sit.” You comply. You put your right hand on his shoulder as his left-hand reaches around you and grips your side. He can probably hear your heart beating out of your chest.

“You know how I knew you wanted this? When I guest lectured in your physics class you were wearing sweatpants. Out of anything you could have worn, sweatpants. You tried to hide it, but I saw your eyes widen when you saw me. You never dared to be caught dead in front of me clad from one of your tiny little skirts you love wearing to my class.” He takes the hand not at your side and squeezes above your knee. “Do you wear those skirts just for me? Tell me the truth.” You turn to him but avoid eye contact. In the quietest voice you say “Yes, just for you professor.” Knowing you were coming straight to his office hours after stats, you wore one of your shortest skirts and knee-high black boots. You hoped being alone in office hours on a dark fall night he wouldn’t be able to resist you. It was worth a shot, anyway. He smirks and before he has a chance to reply you say, “Now back to my grade, is there anything I can do to improve the grade I got on my midterm? Can I resubmit it with your notes taken into account?” “I’m sorry miss y/l/n but there's nothing I can do. The university policy states that once midterm grades are locked, any work done before can not be revised. My apologies.” 

“Is there anything I can do? Any extra credit opportunities this term?  I can help you grade papers or clean your classroom! Please I’ll do anything! I need to improve my grade, please!” He just stares at you while you beg. “Anything?” He says with a devilish smirk. “Yes sir.” You say back to him, smiling and batting your eyelashes. He takes a deep breath with his eyes closed and once he opens them he locks eyes with you and says, “Ride my thigh.” “Excuse me, Doctor?” His dick jumps at the honorific. “You said you’d do anything to improve your grade. I know you heard me, ride my thigh.” You cannot believe Dr. Reid just asked you for this. Since the first day of class, he has been the sole object of your fantasies. You’ve fallen asleep many nights imagining him bending you over his desk and fucking you until you scream.

 Without a second thought, you stand up to resituate yourself on his lap, straddling his left thigh. The moment you stand up he reaches for your wrist, “What are you doing?” You smile on the inside, those four simple words have shown you he wants this as badly as you do. “Don’t worry professor, I’m just turning around, I need something to grab onto.” You say as you sink down onto him. You put both hands on either side of his shoulders and begin to rock back and forth finding your rhythm. The roughness of his khakis against your ass and your thong pushed against your clit has you stifling your moans quickly. He grabs your chin to make you look at him, “I want to hear you, baby.” You let the moans leave your lips, still mindful of volume. He puts one hand on the small of your back and the other on your hip, gently guiding you. When he touches you, you are on cloud nine. Here you are, in your professor's office after hours riding his thigh as he speaks sweet praises to you. You swear you’ve died and gone to heaven. “That’s it baby keep going.” You are eyeing the member in his pants start to grow. Every time he speaks you get closer and closer to the edge. He can tell by the way you’re speeding up. “Come for me little girl, I want to hear how good you’re feeling.” The use of little girl sends you over the edge. 

Tightly gripping his shoulders as you ride out the rest of your orgasm, leaving dents in his shoulders through his dress shirt. Once you’re done cumming, you collapse onto his chest breathing heavily. Staring down at his lap you see his dick straining against his pants, and he’s huge. He gently rubs your back as you come down from your high. He kisses your head and lifts you by your shoulders facing him. You’re staring deep into his eyes. “You did so good for me, but it's getting late, you should get home.” “Right right, sorry. I’ll head out now.” As you stand up and adjust your skirt you notice the wet spot you left on his pants.

 He sees you staring and interrupts your thoughts, “Don’t worry about it. Can I plan to see you next week at office hours?” “Yes!” You say a little too enthusiastically. “Um I mean yeah, I’ll be here.” You say in a chiller tone. “Good, I have more extra credit opportunities in mind, I hope to see you in class on Monday. Next week, come to office hours once they're done, okay? Don’t show up before 7.” “Yes Dr. Reid, I look forward to improving my grade however you see fit.” You say with a wink heading towards the door. When you go to turn the knob it's locked. You unlock it and glance back at him. He’s still staring at you with a hungry look in his eyes. You have the biggest smile on your face walking back towards your dorm, next week's office hours can’t come soon enough.

a/n: this is the first fic I’ve written in about 10 years! Should I turn this into a mini series? I have more ideas for how this story could go! Any feedback is greatly appreciated <3

[softbeej]

Rule Number One (You Gotta Have Fun)

Alastor x Reader Smut. U break his only rule and bother him while hes tryna work. Enjoy. :} Requests open btw.

Alastor had locked himself up in his radio tower for what felt like days. He was truly a workaholic, and loved to be busy. This was fine, except you found yourself actually sort of... missing him?

No sight of him creeping down the hallway or the impending feeling that he was about to catch you doing something prohibited at the hotel. It all felt too empty all of a sudden, and you wished he’d be back down soon, even if just to make you uneasy with that eerie smile.

So, you decided to break the number one rule set by him.

“Under no circumstances is anyone to ever enter the radio tower without my express permission.”

Well, what are rules if not to be broken, right? And that’s where you found yourself, climbing up into the prohibited area.

Ears pressed back, he turned to face you. There was no other way to put it, Alastor was fucking pissed.

You shouldn’t of come up here. You should of listened to his stupid rule, and busied yourself with something else. Maybe you had time to turn around, and pretend you made a wrong turn.

“I trust you have something important for me? Something that would be worth you coming all the way up here without my say so, hm?”

His voice was even more staticky than usual, his tone dripping with sarcasm. You were thinking up a response when he stood up and strode over to you. He jabbed his microphone stand under your jaw, albeit gently, and forced you to look at him.

“Well, deary?”

You only shook your head, hair bouncing on your shoulders.

“Then why, pray tell, are you up here? And use your words this time, yes?”

Within those few words, you suddenly understood why he was so feared. Just from the way he spoke, he could make you feel tiny and stupid.

“I, um, was just wondering where you were, is all...”

“Oh?” He released the microphone stand and you faced the floor again, feeling like a child about to get scolded. “You did know where I was though, didn’t you? So, I’ll ask once more. What brought you up here?”

He had retired back to his chair, and was watching you intently as you squirmed at his questioning. His smile never once left his face.

“You know what, I should go-“

Slam. His shadow had closed the door.

“Has no one ever told you it’s rude to ignore someone, darling? I’m just asking you a simple question, what’s the need for all this attitude? Why are you here?”

Blush rising to your face, you picked at skin around your nails still not wanting to look at his shit eating grin.

“I was bored. Missed you.”

“Ah, there we go! You see how easy that was?”

You nodded, “Can I go now? Sorry for interrupting...”

“Nonsense! You missed me, did you not? You came all the way up here for me, desperate for my attention. Well, dear, my attention you have got. Come, sit, sit.” He patted his thigh.

Oh, how you wished the world would swallow you up right now. But the worst part of this was how turned on you were at his lecturing. You think your reaction was doing the same to him, given the way his ears were perked up and pupils blown.

You walked over to him, gently perching on his knee, before he pulled you down by your waist so you were properly sitting in his lap. He continued working, tapping buttons and twisting dials, as you could only sit there and pray your heart rate would soon go back to normal.

"If I did not know any better, I'd say this encounter has you quite excited, darling! The way your pulse is rising, and not to mention the fact I can smell the arousal on you!" He laughed. "You'd tell me, wouldn't you? If I had brought out such emotions in you."

Your blood drew hot in shame, he knew.

You nodded and tried to save face, "Yes, Alastor. I'm fine, just- my pulse is high from the walk up here, that's all."

"And if you were to stand up, your answer would be the same, I presume?"

Confused, you cocked your head. He didn't say anything, just wrapped his hands around your waist and stood you up.

There it was, the evidence he was looking for. A wet patch on his thigh. Right from where you were sitting. Your wetness had leaked through your panties, leaving a spot on his dress pants.

“Well, look at this mess. And my best pants, no less! Do you have anything to say for yourself, dear?”

You shook your head, never so embarrassed in your life.

He tutted, "First, you lie about why you came up here. Then you lie about this? Darling, have you no manners? Or am I to teach you them myself, hm?"

His eyes were half lidded now, ears twitching.

"I- uh. I think you need to teach me, Alastor..." You admitted, not able to take your eyes off him.

“Finally! The right answer! You’re getting the hang of this now, eh?” He laughed, and patted his thigh - the one you’d dirtied, “Back up here. May as well see how much more you can ruin them.”

Legs shaking, you stood up and straddled his thigh. He leaned in close, “Now get yourself off. You can do that, yes? If your mewls at night are anything to go by, I’d say you’re to be a natural at this!”

The thought of Alastor hearing you play with yourself through your bedroom door sent shivers down your spine, in a good way. He grabbed your chin, angling your head to face him.

“I said you can do that, yes, dear?”

You nodded, hands reaching up to his shoulders to steady yourself as you started grinding down on his thigh like your life depended on it, maybe it did. You could feel his cock hardening. His hands trailed down your body to your hips where they stayed, helping you slowly ride his thigh.

“Theres a good girl, hm? See what happens when you behave?”

You nodded, breathing heavy, “Uh-huh.”

Alastor nodded, his hips gently bucking up for friction. Your hand went to zipper to help, but he brushed it away.

“This is your lesson. Not mine.” He winked.

So you kept riding his thigh, until your own thighs were weak, and you were close. And he knew it.

“If this were a proper lesson, I wouldn’t allow you to cum. But you’ve been so good, so good for me... You may cum.”

You nodded into the nook of his neck, letting out a pathetic whiny mewl as you came, soddening his pants. From the sound of it, he came too, letting out a staticky grunt that would of hurt your ears if you were paying attention, but you were too busy grinding your way through your climax, as he shushed you gently.

He helped you stand up, your thighs shaking and almost giving out under you. A sharp finger pressed into the stain on his pants, before he collected some of the wetness and licked it off.

“Head off to my bedroom, now, love. Get yourself cleaned up. I’m nowhere near done with you yet.”

The walk to his bedroom was strange to say the least. Your knees shaking and panties wet, of course Angel was going to say something.

“Christ, you look like you been fucked good, sweets.”

“I have, I think...?”

“Oh yeah? And whose the lucky son of a bitch, huh? He knows not to fuck with you, right?” He winked, ever protective of you.

As if on cue, Alastor appeared, strolling carelessly toward you both. A hand on your shoulder.

“Sorry to interrupt, Angel, my dear, but I’m afraid we have something to take care of. If you’ll excuse us...” He guided you away, towards his room.

[mildangzz]

inexperienced professor won x experienced uni student reader

au where your poor professor has to deal with you teasing him every day during class :(( until one day…!!!

warnings: nsfw + idrk? sorry 😞

> i’ll write pt2 for camboy jw soon :3

—

9:00am

“How exciting…!” You mumble to yourself as you wake up and get ready for your classes; showering, brushing your teeth, dressing yourself, doing your hair and makeup.

Now, why would anyone put this much effort into dresses up for class, let alone one so early? (not even) The answer is simple: Professor Yang.

When the new semester started, you were not excited at all. School starting just meant no more free time, no more time to hang out with friends as much as you used to and had to focus on work and school. What a drag!

That is until you walked into the lecture hall, seeing possibly the most beautiful man you’ve laid eyes on. Sitting on the corner of his desk, book in one hand and a pen in the other. You stopped at the door and stared at him for a second or two, regretting not putting in more effort into your outfit that day.

Once the lecture started, he introduced himself as Professor Yang Jungwon, who was just 3 years older than you and a single man (this is very important!) You barely paid attention to what was being talked about, eyeing him the entire time and you swore he would stare you up and down for a second too long. So going to class is going to be worth it now!

10:40am.

You open the doors to the lecture hall and exhale, going up to Professor Yang’s desk with a small pout and your assignment. When he notices you in the corner if his eye he tenses up, turning to look at you as he put his hands on his lap. He smiles at you.

“Good morning, Miss Y/L/N. What can I help you with?”

You sighed, loving hearing his voice first thing in the morning. You put the assignment in front of him, crouching down so that you’re level with the desk. Staring up at him, you go on about the assignment. It was an extremely easy task, just working on a few problems and showing work for them.

“This is just so difficult, please explain it to me!”

He leaned forward with his pen, going over one of the questions with you when he feels a hand on his thigh. He turns his head to look at you but you just acted normal, nodding at what he was saying. So he continues…

He continues talking about god knows what while you are on your knees with your hands in his pants, rubbing his cock over his boxers as you place yourself over his shoe. His head shoots back when you pull down his clothes to lick his cock, giving small “mhm’s” and “oh’s” to his explanations, taking him in fully with his cock hitting the back of your throat.

He gives up and full on moans out, gripping your hair as he bites into his fist. “Y-Y/N… wait…” He whines, face flushed and eyes tearing up. “It’s too- It’s too much oh my god” You hum at his words, looking up at him as you take him out of your mouth slowly, saliva connecting you two. “Professor Yang… God, I’ve seen you looking at me every lecture, speaking directly to me and covering your dick when I walk up to you.” You get up and pull down your skirt and panties, positioning yourself on his lap.

He freezes when you sit on him, his hands gripping onto his armrests. You stare at him for a few seconds, grabbing onto his chin to pull him closer. “What’s wrong baby, hm?” He closes his eyes, slightly pouting. “First… I’ve never-“ You kiss him, not letting him finish his words as you pull his arms around your waist. “Like this~”

He pants as you pull away, his grip tightening on your waist. He’s scared to move, staring up at you with want and need in his eyes so you get off his lap slowly, going back down on your knees. “Since it’s your first time Professor Yang, I’ll help you feel good, yeah?”

He groans when you grab his cock, licking it from the tip to the base when you suddenly take him all in. He jolts and whines out loud, covering his mouth.

You look up at him and see him teary eyed, cheeks flushed and hand trembling. How cute…

Since it is his first time, it doesn’t take him long to cum, being too scared to cum in your mouth but you assure him its fine. When he does, you swallow it all, opening your mouth to show him. He swore he got hard again from just how beautiful you looked.

11:30am.

The entire lecture Professor Yang seemed tense, stuttering every now and then and just sighing. He apologized to everyone and just called it a day, saying he was feeling a bit ill. Once everyone left you walked up to him, smiling.

“Miss Y/N… do you have plans tonight?”

[nancyheart11]

Fan Joy July 1

Hyrule woke up. Suddenly urgency hit him like a rampaging Lynel and he sat up quickly, before he had to stop and hold his aching, throbbing head. Just what had he been– Where had the bunny gone? Was this a dream? Why had his head been lying on something soft? He spotted Legend and his heart calmed a little just knowing such a strong hero was nearby. “Legend? Why are you here? Are you looking for me?” Legend looked over with such an intense gaze Hyrule felt a shiver crawl down his back. The jumbled story of going to look for wood, finding an injured pink bunny and being chased by bandits flew out of his mouth, it was only stopped by the sudden realization the bunny had disappeared and  he had no way to prove himself to Legend. He must look like the most lazy hero ever! Sent to get wood and he didn’t manage that job. Legend must be so disappointed in him. He waited for the scolding that was surely about to come, his head held low since he couldn’t stand to see the look on Legend’s face. But instead of a lecture, there were arms around him? Legend was hugging him, why? “Ah… sorry sorry, you always panic if you are hugged suddenly. But I can’t help it.I’m so proud of you, Hero of Hyrule.” He didn’t know what to think, Legend saying he was proud of him? And looking at him with such soft eyes? Was this real? “Breathe, Rulie!” Oh, right, that was important. “Legend, I don’t understand . . . What I’ve done is- why did you say that all of a sudden.” “You will understand one day.” “But . . .” “No buts, now let’s go back to camp and treat your wounds. Can you walk?” “Yeah.” “Okay, let me hold your hand.” After a while of walking they encountered a hill. Legend started up first. “Watch your step! It’s slippery here.” He hesitated slightly and Hyrule’s gaze shot to the other hero's foot. The same wound on his right knee as the bunny, dragging the same foot, acting stiff, possibly from the anesthesic? And most suspicious he didn’t ask the cause of Hyrule’s wounds, as though he already knew. Could the bunny and Legend be one and the same?! ------- “Dinner is ready!” called Wild, immediately drowned out by, “PINK BUNNY?!” “Pink? Are you serious?” asked Warriors while finishing putting a bandage on Hyrule’s shoulder. “Yeah! It’s very cute.” he replied. “I want to see and hug it!” continued Wind at a more appropriate volume for sitting one Warriors distance away “If I find one, i’ll take a picture with my picto box!” “Maybe there are other colors besides pink? . . .” mumbled Warriors. “Hey, if we’re lucky, we might see the pink bunny family!” Wind hoped aloud. What Hyrule didn’t know was in another corner of camp where Legend was working on repairing his brown tunic, Twilight was hurting his already wounded chest by holding back his laughter. Legend glared harder at him while holding the needle threateningly, while Time and Four watched with a mix of amusement and confusion.

a little ficlet written about This amazing comic by @la-sera! I love her art and this is my favorite comic she's done yet!

[ellecdc]

The Drink Snob (part 3)

mafia au!Remus Lupin x fem!reader - 3.1k

p1 // p2 // p3 // p4

CW: attempted drink tampering, attempted human trafficking, a lot of swearing because it's Remus and reader (obviously)

Synopsis: You take Elle's advice, Remus returns the favour.

You waited at the end of the counter for your mocha to be called through the café. You were feeling pretty good about yourself; you had an interview lined up at a nice restaurant at the end of this week, you’d guest lectured for Minerva and got great feedback from both her and the students, and you’d found time to facetime Elle twice more.

The café was fairly busy with a fair number of students trying to get their caffeine fix between classes. The barista apologized to you for the wait, but you waved him off; “I’m not in any rush right now, take your time.” You had said to him.

“That was quite polite of you.” A voice to your right commented. 

You turned and raised your eyebrow at the dark-haired man. His hair was an array of curls pulled back into a low bun, and he kept his onyx gaze fixed on you. 

“And that surprises you?”

He smirked at you. “From a yank? I’d have to say a little.”

“Right,” You scoffed, “I’m not American.”

He looked at you strangely at that. “You sound like an American.”

“Maybe I’m just practicing for a part.” You shot back.

He hummed in response. “A budding actress, hm?”

Before you could respond, your name was called at the counter.

“Peppermint mocha for Y/N!”

You picked up your cup and turned back to the man. “As nice as this was, I have to take my leave.”

“Come to dinner with me.” He interjected quickly. You stared at him incredulously.

“I’m sorry?”

“Come on, I want to hear more about this budding acting career of yours.” He said as he winked. 

Your immediate thought was hell no. But then you thought of The Man ™ from the pub last week, and how surprising and nice it was to finally connect with someone. Wasn’t this exactly what Elle was saying you should be doing? It went against every part of your better judgement, but this opportunity had been placed in front of you twice, were you really in any position to ignore it?

“What’s your name?” You asked. You were met with a victorious smile.

“Tan.”

You considered him for a moment.

“Fine, one dinner.”

He clapped his hands together. “Wonderful, how about tonight? There’s a Spanish fusion restaurant that just opened downtown that I’ve been dying to try. I could pick you up. Say 7?” 

You looked the man up and down; you may be stepping out of your comfort zone agreeing to a date with a stranger you met at a coffee shop, but you weren’t suicidal. 

“I’ll meet you there.” You offered. Tan seemed to deflate a little, but the emotion passed quickly over his face.

He gave you the address and then actually kissed you on the hand before you turned and exited the café. 

Were all Brit’s this bold? Was this just an English thing? You walked back to the faculty building hoping this was a meet cute opportunity you could tell Elle about. 

“It’s kinda smart, really.” James commented, taking another drink from his water. 

“What is?” Remus asked, not looking up from the salad he was pushing around on the plate in front of him.

“Scouting near the universities.” 

Remus looked up at his mate then, his black hair as wild as ever as he pushed his glasses back up the bridge of his nose. His knee was bouncing under the table, and Remus knew he was just trying to make conversation while they waited for Lestrange to make his appearance, but James could be so thick sometimes.

“Yes, James. It’s almost as if the traffickers have a method that they follow to find young women they can pick up.” Remus muttered quietly, finally shifting his gaze up to the door. 

“Sorry.” James muttered as he ran his hand through his hair again. “I just hate waiting.”

Remus chuckled. “I can tell.” 

James made it through at least a minute and a half of silence before Remus finally took pity on him. “Harry’s so close to walking now, eh?” 

James’ face lit up as he began a long tangent of his son’s different methods of movement which ranged from scooting, crawling, shifting, and rolling. “And Moony, yesterday he stood at the coffee table and walked around it all by himself! He was holding the coffee table, but still!” 

Remus smiled at his friend’s happiness just as he noticed their target entering the building. 

“He’s here.” Remus muttered into his collar which hid his speak piece.

“Greasy bastard, how do they manage to look creepier and creepier every time I see them?” Sirius muttered darkly into Remus and James’ earpiece from his car parked out front. 

Sirius hated not being able to join on some stakeouts on account of his family. For example, Rabastan Lestrange is technically related to Sirius through marriage as he is the brother-in-law of Sirius’ first cousin Bellatrix. Sirius and Bellatrix, both Black’s by birthright, and the Lestrange’s have historically held ties to the mob boss Tom Riddle who had his followers call him Lord Voldemort. Pretentious fucks at best, but at worst they were prejuidiced, racist, bigots who were involved in human trafficking, which meant it was very important that they get caught and stopped, not the other way around. Which meant Sirius had to play back-up. 

Remus was fine with that. James could be a little annoying on account of his ADHD, but he’d take that over Sirius’ inner rage any day. 

Remus got it, he really did; Sirius had been surrounded by this his whole life – born and raised to carry on the Black line of arseholes, and he’s seen things many people haven’t. His family was awful and what these women and children went through at their hands was horrible, but being hot-headed in the field didn’t save them.

Remus figured Sirius would probably make a good police officer if they weren’t so corrupt, though he would struggle playing by the rules.

Maybe in another life. 

“He’s got a seat in the far left. It’s secluded and near an emergency exit. Reg, are you able to get eyes back there without being caught?” James asked into his own speak piece. 

“On it.” Was Reg’s response. 

Remus watched the door as James watched Rabastan. People came and went but James never mentioned a change in our target, so Remus disregarded them.

Suddenly, Remus’ breath caught in his throat. No. Not her. 

“We should try the croquettes.” James said - their code.

No.

“No.”

James looked up at Remus. “What?”

“It’s...” Remus started, but he didn’t know how to finish. James kept his eyes on Rabastan as you walked past Remus’ line of sight.

“Wait, is that-” James started but they were interrupted by Regulus.

“I’ve got eyes on the emergency exit.” 

“Copy.” James muttered and looked back to Remus. “What is it?”

“What’s going on?” Sirius interjected in their earpieces. 

“Is that the girl?” James whispered to him, causing Remus to scrunch his eyes shut.

“Wait, what?” Reg called.

James sighed. “Remus’ girl from The Drunken Sailor, it’s her.”

“Wait.” Sirius yelled causing both men to wince. “The girl Rabastan is meeting, it’s Remus’ girl?”

“She’s not my girl.”

Sirius called out the wrong name. “Right?”  Sirius carried on over top of Remus. 

“Y/N.” Remus corrected.

“Oh my God,” James said wide eyed at him. “You’ve got it bad.”

“I do not.” Remus started before changing gears, “fuck off, Prongs. Now is not the time. We’ve got to get her out of here.” 

“Easy, Remus.” Regulus encouraged him quietly.

“Tell us how you want to go about this.” James added.

Both Black brothers shouted a what over the earpieces. 

“The plan stays the same, Prongs. Same as it always is – get her out.” Sirius barked.

“No, Padfoot. This has taken on a new element. If Remus isn’t careful, he could be accused of nefarious actions himself. She’s scheduled for an interview at the restaurant in a few days.” James chided. “It’s your call.” He said to Remus.

She wasn’t supposed to get caught up in this. 

She was supposed to go back to school and stay away from dingy bars – and dingy men. She was so clever; how could she have gotten swept up with Rabastan?

No.

Don’t be an arse, Remus.

These men were smart. They knew how to come off completely charming, and targeted women, well, women exactly like her.

She was a student, she was foreign, and she was probably alone when he approached her. She was their perfect target.

Remus just hoped she had kept her wits about her; she had noticed so quickly that his drink had been tampered with, hopefully she’d be just as alert tonight. Remus knew from the staff at the café that she had declined his invitation to pick her up, hopefully she didn’t give him her number, either. 

“Do you want me to swap, Remus?” Regulus queried over our earpiece. 

Did Remus want him to swap? 

What did Remus want?

Remus kind of wanted to be the one to be sitting over there with you.

He turned to look at your table to see you place your jacket on the hook of the booth beside you. As your head was turned, Rabastan’s hand hovered over your glass of water which began to fizz.  

“Moons?” James asked quietly again. 

But before Remus could respond, you looked back up and your gaze found him. Your eyes and nose scrunched a little as you considered him as if you couldn’t believe what you were seeing. You finally shook your head slightly and offered Remus a small smile before turning back to Rabastan. 

Well, you knew Remus was here now. 

So much for keeping her out of this. 

“Now.” Remus said as he stood from his place at the table. 

The world had to be fucking with you at this point, right? You weren’t actually seeing The Man™? He must just be a figment of your imagination?

Apparently, he was not just a figment of your imagination because he was suddenly standing at the end of your table as if he was about to take your order.

“We really must stop meeting each other like this.” He said with a smirk.

You chuckled nervously as you stared at his beautiful face. “Uhm, yeah. Haha. What are the odds?”

“Uhm, do you mind?” Tan said as he considered The Man ™ and you with furrowed brows.

“I do, actually.” He said severely, before a second man with a mop of curly black hair sidled up behind him looking far more pleased than his counterpart.

“Rabastan, my man, it’s been too long.” He said entirely too loudly. You felt your cheeks heat up as you offered the people around you a nervous smile. 

Tan seemed to pale at the sight of the newcomer. Suddenly, his glass of water was turned over in front of him as he scrambled to stand. Before Tan could get anywhere, the curly headed man embraced him in an aggressive looking hug that involved an arm around his neck.

“You bastard, I can’t believe we let it go this long without catching up. Why don’t we have a little family reunion, hm? I know some cousins of yours who are just dying to see how you are.” He announced to the entire restaurant as he man-handled Tan to the emergency exit behind your booth.

You watched with your mouth hanging open as the door closed behind them and the restaurant returned to its appropriate volume. 

You turned your head towards The Man ™ as he slid into the booth Tan had just been dragged out of for all intents and purposes.

“What?” was all you could manage to mutter. 

“Don’t drink your water” was his response.

You looked down to see the table – now pooled with Tan’s water – and sat there in front of you was your water with a filmy layer on top. 

“What the fuck just happened?” you muttered more to yourself than anything.

“I returned the favour.” The Man™ replied with a shrug as he mopped up the water on the table that was starting to spill onto the bench of the booth you were seated on.

“What? Were you following me around waiting for some guy to drug me?” You asked incredulously.

“Relax, sweetheart. It’s not that deep.”

You scoffed in outrage. “Do not tell me to relax you fucker, I was nearly drugged, and lord knows what else.”

“I know exactly what else.” The man snarked back. “He would have brought you out to a van that his buddies would have pulled up upon his command, they would have dumped your purse and all of your belongings in the dumpster behind some business a few blocks away, flown you to Portugal and sold you to the highest bidder, and that’s ignoring everything that would have happened in between. I can assure you, darling, that there was only one fucker here and he was just dragged away by my mate there. So please for all that is holy, relax.” He pressed the end of his sentence as he dumped your glass over as well just as a server came by.

“Oh, let me clean this up for you!” The server exclaimed at the mess just as The Man apologized in faux embarrassment. “I’ll get you two new glasses. Have you had a chance to look at the menu?”

Completely stunned, you decided to field the question to the infuriating man across from you who, fucking damnit, looked just as handsome as the first time you’d seen him. 

“Just the waters for now, thank you.” He said with a smile which flashed his dimples, the bastard. 

“Are you okay?” He asked softly which was in stark contrast from his demeanor before the server came.

“I’m fine.” You muttered probably more aggressively than you should have. “Fuck, I’m going to kill her.” You growled as you leaned your elbows onto the table and shoved your face into your hands.

“Who’s that now?”

You groaned, hands still covering your face. “My friend, the bitch. This is all her fault.” 

“How so?”

“This was her idea! Going out with him, I mean.” You answered miserably as you leaned back against the booth and crossed your arms.

“Your friend knew that guy?” He asked somewhat alarmed.

You snorted a laugh. “No. She just thought I should get out more. Was so worried about me being all sad and lonely in this new city. This’ll teach her.” You muttered as you picked imaginary lint from your skirt.

The man was mirroring you; leaning against the back of his booth with his arms crossed as he seemed to consider you.

“Is that why you started handing out your CV?”

You felt your eyebrows furrow. “My what?” 

The man dramatically rolled his eyes. “Oh, my apologies. I meant your resume.”

You nodded your head in understanding before slamming your hand down on the still damp table. “How do you know I’ve been handing out resumes? Are you actually stalking me?” 

“No, even your luck doesn’t seem to be that bad. Though, being nearly drugged twice is not a good track record.”

“If I’m remembering correctly, you were the one nearly drugged last time.”

The man smiled at you and something about it felt far softer than you felt the moment called for. “You applied at my mum’s restaurant – the one on 72nd. She was going on about finally having live music in the joint; I saw your CV.”

“I didn’t apply as a musician.” You shouted somewhat panickily. You cleared your throat before correcting yourself. “I mean, I just...I was just looking for a job as a server.”

He squinted his eyes at you before responding. “Well, good luck trying to say no to my mum.”

“What are the chances of me getting drugged if I work at your mum’s restaurant?”

This surprised a bark of laugh from him. “Actually, your chances would be quite a bit lower.”

“I don’t know...” you said suspiciously. “Every time I’ve been with you, drinks have been drugged.”

He hummed as he squinted his eyes. “Hazard of the trade.”

“And what trade is that?”

“Crime.” He said simply. You chuckled, but as you looked back up at the man, you noticed he wasn’t laughing.

“Oh, you’re serious?” You commented.

The corner of his mouth seemed to quirk at your word choice, but he offered you one quick nod.

“But...you’re the kind of criminal to have your drinks drugged and to stop other people from getting drugged?”

He moved his head side-to-side as if to say sort of.

“And you’re telling me this...because?”

“Because” he said as he seemed to square himself, “you ought to know that before you accept the position.” 

The Man stood and left some bills on the table. “Are you safe to get home on your own?”

Still reeling from this whole ordeal, you nodded dumbly at him. He offered you a soft smile.

“Take it easy, Y/N.” He said as he left through the emergency exit.

It was only at his use of your name that you realized you still haven't caught his.

Remus was kicking himself. He should have just asked if you were okay and went about business as usual. He shouldn’t have sat with you, he shouldn’t have confessed about his mother’s restaurant, and he definitely shouldn’t have told you about the nature of his career. But he couldn’t let you walk into that interview without knowing what you were potentially getting yourself into.

And what would have happened if you had taken the job and then seen him there? Then you really would have suspected him of stalking.

Well, Remus has technically stalked before, but not in like a stalkery way, you know? It was like...

It was surveillance! 

Fuck, he was grasping at straws.

It just seemed like the world was hell bent on shoving you in Remus’ path. And when Remus first met you – he was insistent on keeping you away from him, from this.

But you just had to drop your resume off at his family’s restaurant.

And you just had to get picked up by a human trafficking sociopath. 

So, if you were going to insist on walking this dangerous line Remus calls life, you might as well know where the line is.

He didn’t know what he was more worried about: that you’d take his warning or that you wouldn’t. 

Continue to part four here.

[heelovver]

~Super shy~

Hi~ ❤︎₊ ⊹

I ’m new here, hopefully you enjoy my writing thanks for reading

Pairing: EnemySunghoon x reader/afab

Genre: smut, enemies to lovers

Summery: Sunghoon and you have been enemies since childhood. Sunghoon was always rude to all the girls, and you always defended them. Sunghoon can’t stand fake girls who look for his attention that’s why he bothers you so much. You don’t treat him like a piece of meat. He only has eyes for you but you only know how to talk his ears off so he has to stop it somehow.

Warning: sexual themes, fingering, unprotected sex (rap it before you tap it), making out.

Not proofread

~❤︎~ ˚₊‧꒰ა❤︎໒꒱ ‧ ‧꒰ა❤︎໒꒱ ‧˚₊‧꒰ა❤︎໒꒱ ₊ ˚‧꒰ა❤︎໒꒱ ‧₊‧꒰ა❤︎໒꒱ ‧˚₊‧~❤︎~

Life since childhood has always been interesting. You always had good friends. You were well known and respected. You always did your best and acted accordingly. There is just one thing that has always bothered you. Park Sunghoon and his stupid face, stupid grades, and stupid attitude. You always came second place from him. He didn’t even try so why can’t you beat him. He just sleeps and you study your ass off day and night. He wasn’t even nice and everyone liked him while you had to suck up and fake it. Him and his stupid attitude towards everything. “Good job Sunghoon you got the highest graded essay.” “Thanks I guess”

It was a typical Friday evening 6:43PM to be exact. You just wanted to get your lecture over with and go home to sleep before the weekend. So why at this moment do you want to kick Park Sunghoon right in the balls. He is staring at you with that same old smirk he always had. It just so happens Sunghoon has to have the same class. Being the last person to leave due to taking extra notes. You pack your bag and head out. Standing there blocking the door not letting you leave. “Hey miss second place” he says while smirking. That stupid nickname he’d given you since elementary school all the way until now, college. “Go away idiot.” You reply glaring up at him. “Why do you try so hard when you know you can’t beat me darling?” You chose to ignore him and step on his feet. “Ouch” he bite his lip in pain. “Move or I’ll do way worse than that.” “So much attitude when I’m just trying to wish you luck on the exam. I Which you’ll need it.” Pissed you shove him away and speed walk to your car. Getting into your car driving away furious. “His Stupid, stupid, stupid smirk. Don’t let him in your head he just wants to get under your skin you’re way too old to fall for his stupid tricks.”

Saturday a night of studying in the library. Waking up then doing nothing the whole day made you feel lazy. Study was your only way of being productive. Sitting in the back studying for your upcoming exam. You feel someone sit next to you. “Miss second place studying on the weekend typical when you have no life.” Sunghoon sits grabbing onto the book you were reading. “Leave me alone or I swear I’ll mess that pretty face of yours up.” You tried to grab your book back. “You think I’m pretty thanks” he lifts the book out of your reach. You sit with your knees on the couch turning to him reaching for your book. “This is what happens when you never drink your milk in middle school.” Your face turns serious. Leaning back he toys with the book in front of your face. You harshly push him down to try and grab your book back. With that you fall in between his legs, your hands beside his head, face to face in shock. “S-sorry.” You say after what felt like hours which really was 4 seconds. He wraps his arm around your waist and lifts you both up. “Here” he looks up and sees your pout the kind of pout that makes Sunghoon flustered. He hands you your book and leaves. “Why is my heart beating so much and why did his stupid eyes look so so- shut up don’t think about that back to studying” you think to yourself before plugging your EarPods on playing your playlist and studying.

It was the day of the exam. You feel so tired from your late night study sech. Your handed your test looking at it and thinking it’s easy. “Thank god I studied” you thought to yourself. An hour passed your almost done just 14 questions left. From the corner of your eyes you see someone stand up handing in their test. Of course it was Sunghoon. Him and his idgaf face walking out of the class after handing in his paper. “How did he finish so fast. What a show off” you thought to yourself before rushing. “5 minutes left” your professor yelled warning everyone. Your focus gone over thinking every question you answered. “Fuck only 5 minutes and 3 questions left.” You muttered then bit your lips and answered with the best of your abilities. “Please hand in your exams placing them on my desk.” You stand up knowing you didn’t even get to do your best. Thinking “I did all that studying for nothing” feeling overwhelmed you packed your bags slowly. Tears threatening to spill out. Being last again in the class you didn’t care and tears started streaming out. “Stupid Sunghoon who only needs an hour when I can’t even finish within the time.” You muttered wiping your tears. You walked towards the door opening it just for somebody to block your way. Looking up it was of course Sunghoon. “We already know you got second plac-.” He looks down at you. You and your teary eyes, tear stained cheeks and that pout.

It’s always that stupid pout on your face that makes him dizzy and flustered. Ever since you guys were young one look at your face and he’d felt like the worst person in the world. He never told you of course. He was supposed to like being your #1 hated person, you guys are enemies. Why did he feel so guilty though why must he want to cheer you up.

Flashback: “hey can I play with you” Yunjin asked Sunghoon. “No” “Hey! you’re supposed to share” you yelled after seeing Yunjin cry. “I don’t want to” Sunghoon gave you a smug look. “My mom said sharing is caring!” Yunjin shouted. “I don’t care so I won’t share.” Sunghoon replied making Yunjin cry to you even more. “It’s okay Yunjin I’ll talk to him” you leave Yunjin and walk up to Sunghoon. “What do you want miss second place.” He stuck his tongue out looking at you. “Please let Yunjin play on the slide too.” You pout up at him. Sunghoon flushed in red “Fine but I’m not going to play with her.” Sunghoon walks away.

“That stupid, stupid, stupid pout. You know that was the first time I admitted I liked you to myself.” Looking up at him pouting even more so. “Liked” Sunghoon wipes the tear threatening to come out. “Yeah because right at this moment. I’ve decided I don’t want to hurt you anymore. All that enemies shit is stupid if it’s just going to hurt the girl I love.” He leans his face down so close you feel like you can’t breathe. “May I” he asks. “No you may not. How can I be the girl you love. All you do is bother me. You call me names like miss second place. You make me feel worse about myself. All I ever wanted was to be better than you so don’t act like this. Don’t make me act like this.” Sunghoon backs you up onto the door pinning your wrist above your head. “Act like what” he asks still inches away from your face. “Like a hopeless romantic. I don’t want to love you. You’ve only ever were rude to me. I can’t I won’t I will never accept thi-.” Sunghoon closes the gap and kisses you passionately. In shock you try to free your hands from his grasp. Sunghoon stops kissing you “That’s for making me hate you.” He kisses you again but rougher. “That’s for making me crazy over you.” He kisses you again gently. “That’s just because I wanted to.” He lets go of your wrists. You look up at him embarrassed and flustered. “You’re so annoying, how can you still win first at being a good kisser.” You hit him on the chest before wrapping your arms around his neck. You hide your face next to his neck. “I hate the way I’m in love with you when you make me so angry.” You move to look at him and pout. Sunghoon smiles at your cuteness. “Why don’t you take that anger out on me then.” He places his hands on your waist while you turn bright red. “Why so shy now. You always knew how to put your mouth into good use.” You hit him again but he caught your wrist. “You’re such a perv.” You walk out of the hallway Sunghoon following behind. “So are we a thing or what?” Sunghoon caught up interlocking your hands. “I guess we can be.” You answer not looking at him but already knowing he has his stupid smirk painted on his face.

A month has passed since all that hating nonsense. “I don’t wanna study I wanna shove my tongue down your throat.” Sunghoon sighs laying down onto the bed. “If you behave maybe I’ll let you.” You say then go back to reading. “Why do we need to study when we always place top anyways.” he looks at you playing with your hair still lying down. “You always place first I’m second.” “So, you’re first in my heart.” Sunghoon gets up giving you a goofy smile. “First off cringe and second shut up I really need to study.” “So mean” He grabs onto your book throwing it somewhere in his room. “Hey I told you I need to study for the anatomy tes-.” He grabbed you pulling you to straddle him. “You can study me. I’ll help. Touch me anywhere you want.” No longer serious but instead embarrassed you look away. “Fine you don’t want to study me I’ll study you.” He flips you both him now on top. He removes your his hoodie and your short shorts. “This part” he stops licking his fingers sliding them inside your shorts. “It’s the clitoris it contains more than 10,000 nerves. So when I do this.” He rubs your clit in circle making you slightly moan. “You turn into such a slut for me no matter how much you hate it.” He smirks looking at your expression. “This part is your vagina.” He shoves two fingers in without warning. “Sunghoon” you moan out gripping onto his biceps. “Yes baby” he looks down at you with his messy hair falling down. “This has nothing to do with the test.” You say whining. “Just for ruining the mood I’m gonna fuck you until you forget everything you to studied.” He leans down kissing you and shoving his fingers into you repeatedly. His tongue exploring every crevice of the inside of your mouth. You suck onto his tongue moaning. He adds a third finger fastening his pace. You arch your back subconsciously about to cum. “You gotta wait for me darling.” Sunghoon smirks at your annoyed face. Removing his fingers then sucking them. “You’re so gross.” You say looking at him in awe. He takes off your shorts along with your bra eyeing you the whole time. “Not fair I wanna see you too.” You pout at him knowing it’ll work. Sunghoon takes off all his clothing. “Better?” You replied by nodding yes. “We don’t need protection do we. Since I’m always first place I’ll get a good job you can stay home and take care of the kids, right? You wanna be stuffed to the brim with my cum don’t you. I wanna impregnate you so bad so everybody knows you’re all mine.” You groan rubbing your thighs together. “Just hurry and fuck me you’re so annoying.” “Since you asked me so nicely.” Sunghoon slides his dick between your folds. “Such a tea-.” Without warning he thrusts in making you gasp. His dick hitting all the right places made you clench. “Fu-fuck don’t do that I’m gonna fucking cum if you keep clenching.” Unable to control yourself you just moan. “So tight no matter how much I fuck you.” His right hand starts to pinch your nipple while his left rubs your clit. “Sungh- ahh too much.” He leans down sucking your sweet spot on your neck. Marking you with hickeys that’ll stay for days before replacing them again. You arch your back subconsciously too overwhelmed with pleasure you cum. Sunghoon cumming not too short later filling you up to the brim. Sunghoon fucks the mixture of both your cum that has been spilling out back into you. “Cumming first still makes you miss second place.” Sunghoon smirks.

[lawva-girl]

Jealousy

Law x fat!reader

reader is gender nuetral. :))))

WC: 1365

shout out to @sukunas-play-thing for the idea!!!! I hope you like this with my whole heart!!!!

I just know in my soul Law would go so incredibly well with a plussized person!!!!!!!

Boa Hancock. The most beautiful woman in the world. Looking at her made you feel like there wasn’t even a comparison between the two of you, she was so pretty. You were… average? It was hard to tell. 

You, along with the Heart pirates, were all staring at her in amazement. You heard the voice of her sister, warning all the men of what could happen if their sister got upset. Saying something about how she isn’t afraid to turn allies either. 

It didn’t matter, they all still looked. You wondered if it worked on women too, since Ikkaku was also staring with heart eyes. After a quick glance around, you found that Law was nowhere to be seen. 

Suddenly you were storming into his room, desperate to find him. You knew it wasn’t entirely plausible but what if he had gone off and turned to stone? You had to find him, you could probably convince Hancock to turn him back… 

You turned the corner to leave his room, when a voice scared the fuck out of you.

“What are you doing here y/n-ya?” 

Freezing in place, part of you was incredibly grateful he didn’t turn to stone, another part of you was freaking out that your beloved Law had caught you in his room. 

“Oh Law… uhm the crew was staring at Hancock again… I came to get you.” You barely got the sentence out, since you were trying to make up a reason as to why you were here that wasn’t pathetic.

“Thank you for getting me, I’ll head out there now.” 

Suddenly there was panic in your gut again, but he was already on the move to you, where the door was.   

“Law, you shouldn’t go out there! You might see her!” You turned fully towards him and decided that you would refuse to let him pass. 

“Why would that matter?” He didn’t even slow down, just opened a room and ‘shambles’ his way past you. 

You turned as quickly as you could to look at him but his hat was the only thing you saw. He was gone.

You stood for only a second before beginning to chase after him. 

Once outside, there was a peculiar scene.

The heart pirates were all sitting on their knees, head hung low. They were sitting in front of Hancock and Law, who were lecturing the group together.

Upon seeing you on the deck of the polar tang Law nodded, then went back to yelling. You stood there confused, clearly something had happened, but you felt like an outsider. 

Not a clue as to what was happening. 

Thankfully, Law decided to clue you in on what occurred later.

The two of you were sitting in the medical bay, where he was patching up a gash in your leg. It had been an eventful day to say the least. The bay itself was quiet and calm though, not showing any signs of what had occurred that day. With the exception of you and your leg of course. 

“You can’t just run around however you want y/n-ya.” Law didn’t even look up at you as he spoke, instead focusing on the stitches he was putting in your leg.

“It’s not like I wanted to fall off the Tang… my depth perception was just a bit off. Plus I would’ve been fine if the repairs Shachi was working on were finished.” You closed your eyes when you felt the pinching pain Law was administering.  

“I’ve had to yell at too many people today, can’t any of you behave?” He grumbled, making it obvious for you that he was upset. 

“I know, I’m sorry. I promise I won’t fall again. It’s not like anyone would be able to fish me out if I did.” 

“What?” 

“What?” 

Law stared at you now, you assumed he looked up in shock at one point or another. 

“What did you have to yell at the others for?” You asked him, not giving him the chance to say anything. 

Law took a deep breath, “they almost got turned to stone, Hancock caught them all staring. Thankfully she wasn’t upset, since we had helped Luffy.” 

“Oh that’s good…” you laid back fully, closing your eyes. You had always worked as a somewhat friend to Law, hearing him rant and complain. It made you happy to have a use. It made you especially happy to have Law need you, despite knowing that you didn’t have a chance with him.

Law didn’t speak much in general, so if you wanted to know you kinda had to pry. You wanted to know so badly how he ended up lecturing beside Hancock, but you also did not want to know at all. 

“So.. you weren’t staring with them?” You felt your heart quicken, but you didn’t say anything to take it back. 

Law coughed a bit, then explained, “No. she’s pretty but I’m not… attracted to her.” 

“Why not? She’s beautiful and she has the perfect body! Plus her hair is perfect and she’s so skinny, anyone could fish her out of water.” You spoke the words before you even realized it, feeling the consequences seconds later when Law hesitated to respond.

“I don’t like…” he paused and smiled into an evil smirk, like it was second nature, “I prefer women who have something I can hold onto.” 

You sat up with eyes wide in shock, and mouth agape. “But…” 

“What? I’m not allowed?” Law looked at you now, and you could swear there was something in his eyes. Something that you could get extremely familiar with. 

While you remained there speechless, Law finished on your leg. As he smoothed the bandages over the slice, you stared at his hands. 

“I’m done. Just make sure you take it easy for 3 days, unless you want it to reopen.” Law stood, turning swiftly and started to clean his tools and pack his equipment. 

“You don’t like Hancock at all?” You called out from the hospital bed.

“No. I like people with something to hold onto. Like you.” Law turned slightly, you could just barely see his face enough to tell he was being serious.

“Oh! Uhm!”

“I like people who have soft thighs I can use as pillows, people who have a belly for me to grab while spooning, people that have a butt and love handles. I like to grab them and watch…” 

Your eyes were wide, unsure of why he was telling you this and why he wouldn’t stop. 

“I like people who have meat on their bones. Plus when a person like that is drowning, only a real man can save them. I can lift you, and I can lift you when you're soaked too.” 

“Law I.. why are you,” you couldn’t think of the words you wanted to use, until Law interrupted.

“Why would I tell you?” You nodded fervently, “I’m telling you because I hope you’ll do something about it.” 

You stared at him, he seemed so far from you. He wasn’t at all but you felt weird trying to stand on your leg that was freshly patched. So you motioned for him to come over to you with your hand. 

“Why?” He was walking over as he spoke. 

“I have to tell you something..” you motioned for him to come closer, so he did. 

You again motioned for him to come closer, and he rolled his eyes but did again.

You leaned forward and closed the gap between you two, whispering to him “my type in men.. its men who are named Law.” 

He turned his head towards yours in shock, and you chuckled. He took the opportunity of the proximity and pressed his lips to yours. Your chuckle died in your throat, as you pressed back into him. 

It felt like magic. His lips were soft, and soo warm. You were convinced such a cold steely man would have a matching body. 

Then you realized, all this time. Law wasn’t cold, he was just caring in a different way. He had answered every question you had. He never put you down, and he seemed to like you the way you are. 

[jooillusion]

Flor I need me some good soup (Junhan smut) 😮‍💨😮‍💨

i’ll *attempt* to feed you some good soup c:

first things first this fucking look

like come on i just wanna ruin him fr he’s just too cute to me </3 pls hear me out on this love

it was three am you found hyeongjun after the party you both were at that was shut down by the police, the boy obviously separated from his friends as he wandered the streets. you’d seen him in your lecture, even offering him small talk but nothing ever went too an extent to call you friends. he was just an associate. you two had no choice but to walk down the downtown area back to the dorms together, feeling as if you were walking in circles due to how long you and hyeongjun have been walking together.

however with hyeongjun it felt like a mere few minutes. he opens up to you like a book and spills everything to you while you just take it all in. he would’ve rather spent his saturday in his quiet dorm room reading a book or watching a romance movie, but his friends wanted him to go out and meet more people.

“i was actually dared by my friends to get “laid” tonight,” he tells you. your taken aback by his straightforwardness, but quickly recovers when he says, “whatever that means.”

“do you want me to show you?” he nods his head hesitantly, not knowing where the next half hour would lead, you grabbing his wrist and leading him to a place you know nobody would find you two.

“you can handle it, right junnie?” you whisper in hyeongjun’s ear. he breathes hot and heavy into the air, his head thrown back into the brick wall of the dark alleyway.

he’s heavy in your hands and he’s been on edge for the past five minutes, wanting nothing more than the relief of releasing, to which your mocking laugh rings through his ears. his hushed pleas carry easily in the nook for the narrow alleyway, an open window a few inches away would definitely hear and be aware of what’s going on.

he’d lock his current state in his mind and take it to his grave. if anybody found out about him whimpering under a hand that isn’t his in an alleyway, he wouldn’t hear the end of it from his friends.

you, on the other hand, wouldn’t rather be doing anything else right now. hyeongjun was perfect to you. the way his fingers curl up on the brick wall behind him. the way his hair fell out of his face. the way his skin illuminated in the moonlight mixed with the dim streetlight only meters away. the way he tries to keep quiet with every movement of your palm squeezing and stroking him. your wrist burns as a cramp slithers its way up your arm but you don’t care, you need to see hyeongjun unravel under you.

“can…can you kiss me? please?” his red lips manage to utter out, swollen from being bitten. you lean up to slot your lips between his, his hand immediately removing itself from the wall to bunch up your hair, pulling your head closer. your hand stops for a second, feeling him full on thrust into your fist, in which you tighten for his pleasure. he cries out in your mouth, his frustrating high fading away.

you pull away, hyeongjun’s glasses now crooked against his face. you giggle quietly, to which his hips stop.

“i’m sorry i’ve just never-”

“you’re fine junnie.” your free hand comes up to fix his glasses. his lips curl up into a small smile.

his cock throbs in your hand, craving for even more stimulation. you crouch down, knees hitting the dry concrete of the ground, hyeongjun’s dazed eyes watching your mouth just mere centimeters away from his cock. the tip of your tongue catches the slit and leaves kitten licks that blank hyeongjun’s mind almost instantly, his nimble fingers throwing themselves in the air, hesitant before testing out a small tug on your hair.

your chuckle leaves him unsure whether or not he’s doing something right, but he doesn’t second guess himself any longer when your mouth closes around his cock. he can’t bring himself to look down or he knows he’d cum on the spot, the sounds of you slurping vibrate through his ears tempting. it punches out a deep groan from hyeongjun, his grip in your hair tightening. the corners of your mouth stretch the more you take in, spit escaping easily from your lips and dripping onto the dark concrete of the ground, hyeongjun’s cook twitching once again in your mouth. you pull away, stroking the base of his cock with ease thanks to the spit used as lube.

“look at me.” you say just above whisper. he shakes his head, leaning it back, his adams apple bobbing up and down as he swallows thickly. “i won’t let you cum if you don’t, hyeongjun.”

his toes curl under his sneakers when your nose suddenly touches his pelvis. he’s close and he can’t even spit out a warning, his hips shallowly thrusting into your mouth and his hand attempting to hold your head still. he cries out, unconcerned of anyone in the windows above who know what’s going on at this point. he’s brought back to reality when your hands hold his thighs to keep yourself balanced and it catches his attention, hyeongjun looking down at you on instinct.

all it took was seeing his cock in your mouth and your now ruined makeup for hyeongjun to cum down your throat, easily swallowing the spurts of his cum. his hand lets go of your hair and you’re the first to pull away, hyeongjun slumping against the brick wall once you let go fully.

“think you can give me more, junnie?” your voice comes out hoarse and it makes hyeongjun’s ears burn red. he’s out of breath, and he’s trying to regain his senses so he can fully register your question, but he just answers with a nod.

your hand that guides his bigger hand underneath your skirt is what finally brings him back to reality.

hi

i rlly dk if i like the way i wrote this but i hope you enjoy it love 🫶

[holylulusworld]

Two kings (prologue)

Summary: You have fallen in love with the king of Brooklyn. When your wedding day arrives, there is much more to discover about the man you fell in love with than you thought...

Pairing: Prince!Steven Grant Rogers x Princess!Reader  

Warnings: angst, modern royal au, mentions of destruction/war/fighting/mystery, dystopian world (kinda), royals bashing (kinda), no dialogue in the beginning

A/N: Please consider this is a short prologue to get to know more about the world the reader is living in. It’s necessary to understand a few aspects of the story. We are living in modern times, but in a dystopian/post war world.

Two kings masterlist

Five decades ago, ...

Blood was staining the ground fifty years ago; feeding the world with more pain and hatred of those who had fallen.

Millions of lives were lost. A war without sense. Doomsday. Final tick of the clock.

With governments and armies losing battle after battle, the ones with royal blood raised their swords again.

Modern times have taken away their rightful place in society. They just had to wait for their chance to get it back. Hidden in the shadows they planned on taking over the world once again.

Their knights stood tall by their kings' and queens’ sides, fighting down the enemy threatening to eat their world alive. An enemy this world hadn't faced for centuries.

Enemies from a different time. The forgotten ones. Their history has been banished from history books.

Revenge of the second sons. The spare. Greedy corpses wanting to get their hands on the crowns their heads never felt.

Dark Age reanimated. Brutal. Deadly. Bloody.

It took more than five years and more losses – but the war was won.

Only winning always comes with a price. One that everyone agreed to pay.

An awful price paid with blood and death.

Today, age of seven, …

You always wondered how the world before the world war tearing it apart was alike.

Love. Freedom. Free will.

Did you have all of this? Was life better back then, when the powerful didn’t decide how you must live your life?

Of course, your father and your tutors tried to teach you about history. Reading about the world you lost before you were even born is just not the same.

You’re only a child, but you know there are rules that must be followed.

Rules you cannot break. Not even as a princess.

“Bunny Boo,“ your father tuts as you stick your nose into another book. “Y/N, you know today is important to our kingdom.”

You close the book, sighing deeply. “I know, daddy.”

“Today I’m not daddy, Bunny Boo,” he crouches down next to your chair to pat your knee. “Around our guests you must call me your majesty. You remember our lectures?”

You recite your tutor's words, "I should act like a princess today. I’ll make you proud your majesty. I remember every word. I promise to be respectful and well-behaved.”

“I know you will,” he runs his hand over your head. “You are my pride and the apple of my eye. One day, you will become queen and rule this kingdom.”

If not a brother will take my place," you remind your father. He smiles softly. You’re too young to understand that a male heir won’t take your place in his heart. Only the throne. “Who will come today, daddy? I forgot.”

“I’ll tell you on the way,” he softly says. “First we need to change into something new. You cannot run around in your shirt and jeans.”

As you drop your eyes to your chest, you reply, "But I like the bees on my shirt. They are cute and help the flowers.”

“For me, Bunny Boo," your father says as he gets back on his feet. “I’ll be waiting for you outside.”

“Hey, you cannot pick the flowers," you say as you let go of your mother's hand to move toward the roses. A boy just picked three red roses and now you are furious. “These are my mom’s flowers.”

As he looks at you sheepishly, he replies, "They're nice.”

“You can’t just…” you stomp your foot. “Who are you? How dare you rip my mom’s flowers out?"

“Sorry,” he looks at the flowers in his hands. The boy is a little elder and taller than you but oddly he shies away as you get closer to him. “I wanted to pick some flowers for the princess. My father said she likes flowers.”

“You want them for the princess?”

He nods. "I forgot the gift my mother bought for the princess. Dad was mad and I wanted to get some flowers to make up for the forgotten gift.”

“You’re an odd boy,” you giggle. “You want to give me my mom’s flowers?”

“You are the princess?” his cheeks redden as you look him up and down.

“Yes.”

He grins and hands you the flowers. “Princess Y/N, it’s an honor to meet you,” he bows. “I’m Prince Steven Grant Rogers. Will you give me the honor to show me around the gardens?"

“Only if you promise to stop stealing flowers…”

>> Part 1

Tags in reblog.

[basilone]

'Heat' and 'threshold' for Buck? Juno xx

Yes hello! 👀 Always game to write more Buck. And, well, I really wanted to take a moment to write him with Lottie, with whom he's got a bit of a complex something going on. I've set this after the events in full of grace, but it can be read as a standalone for sure. Half of this was written as a voice exercise for their relationship ages ago, and finally repurposed here in what feels like its proper place. 😊I don't think this piece needs a warning that isn't covered by the blanket "Lottie's a bi disaster"-tag, so... we're good to go!

heat / threshold

“I ain’t apologizin’ any.”

The shadow cast over her seems to shift slightly at the snap-and-bite she’s laced her words with. Lottie doesn’t bother looking up. Keeps her arms locked around her knees. Presses her face against her legs when the shadow doesn’t go away. Something curdles in her belly – low, aching, sharp like the bile in the back of her throat – that makes her feel all wrong. Makes her want to jump out of her skin in a way that leaves her head spinning and her choices less than fine.

“Jesus, Ace.”

She hates his long pause that makes her nickname a punctuation mark in his mouth. He sounds flat. Tired. She hates that she’s not Lot to him now. He calls her that every other time – even when he’s Major and she’s Captain and they’ve got a job to be doing – but never when he’s mad at her. The fact that she’s Ace to him now stings worse than the scrape on her knuckle that hasn’t stopped bleeding yet.

“You’ve got to stop fighting,” he says, then, and that’s a tune she’s heard from him before. “Hey? You have to.” His boots meet her toes. His flight jacket lands on the sand beside her. His sigh fills the air as much as his lingering aftershave does. “You listenin’ to me?”

“Yeah.” She allows a beat to pass. “Sorta.”

“I mean it.”

“I heard ya just fine, Major. Sir. Gilly Gale Cleven of the three-five-oh.”

He scrapes his throat. “Jesus, you’re really gunning for it now.” He still doesn’t go away. If anything, he moves that much closer. Folds himself into her space as he sinks down onto his jacket. He nudges her shoulder as they come to sit arm-to-arm, foot-to-foot, jacket-to-jacket. “What happened out there, Ace? Tiny said something about you and some of Blakely’s crowd?”

“Something like that.” Lottie shrugs. Keeps her gaze fixed on the small dent in the lone water canister Benny hasn’t picked up yet. “They ain’t learned to keep their mouths shut yet. Carter especially. Shutting them for ’em seemed… prudent.” She affects her mother’s tone on the last word. All debutante-socialite judgment rendered with the precision of a bullet. Is rewarded for it when he snorts out something that, in a better universe than this one, could very well be a laugh. “You give them a talking-to, too? Little lecture? Or am I the lone lucky one to face Major Cleven’s disapproval, sir?”

“Put a lid on the sirs, Ace.”

“Stop callin’ me Ace and I’ll think about it, sir.”

“Lot,” he rasps out, then, and goddamn she doesn’t like how her eyes sting when he nudges her again, “you really need to stop fighting us.” You need to stop fighting me is what she hears, exhaustion lacing his voice, not even an admonishment in place for the tone she’s taken with him. “All right?”

“I hear ya, Gilly. Y’all just get under my damn skin sometimes.” She tries to not make it sound too much like she’s sulking. Ain’t sure she’s succeeding when he chuckles and stretches his legs out beside her. “I don’t know. I don’t got anywhere else to put that feelin’, ya know?”

“Sky ain’t enough, huh.”

“The sky shoots back these days,” she says conversationally. “Gotta leave the pain on the ground. Take anything up with ya, it’s gonna make ya crash.”

“Ain’t that a truth.”

“I ain’t Val, I ain’t good at lyin’ to ya. Unless Bucky asks me to, of course.”

“Of course.”

Lottie exhales a noisy breath. “I’m sorry.”

“I know.” Gale’s face is serene when she glances at him. His hand finds her bruised knuckles. “Do better, Lot. I know you can.”

“You really believe that horseshit, huh.”

His hand squeezes hers none too gently before he releases her. “Manage a week. I’ll take you flying after. How’s that sound?”

“Like a damn impossibility.” Her voice cracks. She blinks furiously as her lower lip starts to wobble. “I… I don’t think…”

“Gotta start somewhere. This heat’s got all tempers at a high. Perrault has yet to take a breath without insulting John in the process.”

Lottie sniffs. Wipes at her cheeks. “Bucky deserves it.”

“I’m sure he does.” His smile is wry. His cheeks are flushed with heat. The start of a sunburn is already sprawling over his bare chest, beneath the glint of his dog tags. “You wanna talk about it now or later, Squeaky?”

“Not at all?” she hedges. Ignores the way his eyes narrow at that to the best of her ability. “I’m sick of talkin’, Gilly. Sick of people askin’ me shit.” She bites her lip. Wishes she could draw blood with the action. “You might as well be the only one who’s nice to me lately. Even if ya call me Squeaky.”

“Benny was plenty nice to you after we landed.”

And she can’t fault him for it. Can’t even hate him for it. “Yeah. He was.” She swallows thickly. Her head feels like it’s about to start swimming. “Darlene likes him a lot, ya know? Can’t be mean to him when she’s all soft about the guy.” Can’t be mean to him even when he makes Darlene smile in a way she hasn’t smiled at Lottie in a long time now. “I ain’t got a problem with Benny, all right?”

“All right,” agrees Gale, even when his tone suggests it’s anything but. He scrapes his throat. Pointedly doesn’t look at her. “Next time you want to fight a guy, Lot… You try me first.”

Lottie blinks. Stares. He is looking at the same water canister she was, earlier. “You? Gilly,” she laughs, breathless all of a sudden, “I ain’t gonna fight you.” I like you too much for that. “You’re my superior officer and all that shit, remember? You tryin’a get me into trouble here?”

He grunts a little. “Trying to keep you out of it, actually.”

“That don’t make sense.”

“What, me wanting to keep you out of trouble?” He laughs. Glances at her, all crinkled eyes and far too much warmth in his gaze, and her belly swoops the same way it did when she first stood on the threshold of a cockpit. “If you fight me,” he continues, speaking straight through the static that fizzes to life inside her, “I can chalk it up to training. Say it’s friendly. If you fight anybody else, they’ll demote you eventually. Send you home, if you keep going.”

“So, what, you’ll be my punching bag?”

“This bag will still punch back, Squeaky,” he snorts, nudging her. “And hard, too. You’re not the only one with a mean right hook in this squadron.”

“You’d punch a lady like me, Gilly?” She flutters her eyelashes at him. Nudges his shoulder none too gently. Anything to shake that feeling inside her that feels treacherously like butterflies. “No warnings, no takebacks, no apologies? Give it to me good and hard?”

His cheeks flush a deeper crimson than before. “Jesus, Lot…”

“Yeah, yeah, I know, you’ve already hit your max on dirty chatter for the day,” she laughs, lifting her sunglasses out of her hair and donning them again. “Can’t fault a girl for jumping on it though. Think of it as me perfectin’ your poker face in case you run into them Nazis. They ain’t gonna crack you during interrogation.”

“Pretty sure them Nazis won’t crack a hundred crude jokes like you do.”

“Pretty sure that makes them more boring than me.”

His answering laugh is soft. Doesn’t carry beyond where they’re seated. “Pretty sure you’re the least boring person in my world, Lot.”

Her cheeks feel warmer than the rest of her does, even though she’s been sunning herself in this mid-day heat for at least an hour now. “Bucky’s gonna cry if you tell him that,” she says, leaning her head on his shoulder long enough for him to tense and then relax under her touch. “But ya sure know how to make a girl feel special, sir. Marge is damn lucky to have ya.”

His shoulder tenses just a fraction beneath her cheek. Just enough.

It’s easier when she draws this line for both of them, or so she’ll tell herself half a million times more.

[theeccentricraven]

Writing Share Tag

Thank you @kaylinalexanderbooks and @jay-avian for the tag 💜

Rules: share a bit of your writing no matter how big or small

A while ago I shared a snippet from The Blood Cleaners here

After a lot of rewriting, I feel ready to post my current version of the first two pages. Wish me luck!

The Blood Cleaners | Chapter 1

"It's not fair," Justin’s lips muttered as he sat in the corner with his arms folded. 

Ellen towered over him, looking down with her hazel eyes. She didn’t come all of this way from her assignment to be soft. 

“Don’t give me that, it’s plenty fair.” Her low voice filled the lecture hall. Justin felt like she was speaking to him from all angles. He heard the children in the hallway, muttering and chatting about the mess he made. Lady Miguela, his supervisor and overseer of the child workers, hushed the children. Justin could pick up voices calling him “that luny kid again” or “el loco”. Steve’s callous voice chimed. Justin’s blood boiled.

Ellen went on. “You spilled the cleaners. You clean them up.”

“It was Steve’s fault!” Justin yelled.   

“Steve didn’t hit you. You hit him.”

Justin clenched his fists. “Because he took my broom and dustpan!” 

Ellen shook her head. “No matter how much the broom and dustpan mean to you, it’s never okay to hit someone and throw things.”

Justin protruded his lips. 

“And worse,” Ellen continued, “you could have contaminated something. Of all the places you could have gotten away with being careless, the hydroponics lab is NOT one of them.”

Justin raised his hands. “But he took it from me!”

Ellen took hold of his hands. “I’m sorry, but we don’t own the tools for our jobs. The broom and dustpan don’t belong to you, not to Steve, not to anyone. At the end of the day, it belongs to the city.”

“But it….” Justin breathed in a sob. He was trying to not cry when the other kids could hear him, but he didn’t have a need to hold back around Ellen. “But it….” He wanted to say, But it talked to me! He wasn’t concerned about saying it around Ellen who didn’t think of him as crazy, though that was only part of it. 

“But it’s mine.” Justin managed to mutter with a sob.

Ellen’s eyes shifted. “I understand Steve hurt you. You don’t need to follow his example.”

Ellen bent her knees to get her head down to Justin’s level. Her hazel eyes faced his dark brown eyes. “Justin, no matter what, you’ll have to get a new broom and pan out of the closet. Once you finish cleaning up, you’ll be back with Deirdre and Miriam.”

Justin made a grunt as he shifted to face the wall. 

Ellen slowly stood up. “Hey,” she bursted with a little cheer. “Tell you what?”

Justin turned his neck to look up at her as she smiled down on him. 

Ellen lightened her voice. “If you clean up the garden room now, then once you get a new broom and pan, I’ll send you to cover one of my assignments today. Now that you’re eight years old, you are allowed to cover some areas alone. You won’t need to spend the rest of the day with Steve.”

Justin’s face lifted. “You mean it?”

“Absolutely.” 

Justin knew that he couldn’t refuse a good bargain like this. He extended his hand. 

“Ok. Deal.”

Ellen’s light tan hand held Justin’s medium brown hand as they shook. Ellen rubbed his spiky dark black hair. He twirled one of her loose light brown locks. Justin stood up from his stool. The two walked across the lecture hall and made their way into the hallway of chatter. A team of three lab workers dressed in white lab coats walked in. Their shoulders were low. Their heads looked down. Justin almost cracked a laugh to ask, “Who died?” but he focused on joining up with Lady Miguela and the other child workers. 

Steve held the stolen broom and pan high, smirking and acting like a big shot. Justin clinched his fits and stuck out his tongue. Steve laughed. So did the other children. Miriam and Deirdre stood quietly with their hands behind their backs, smiling at Justin. Deirdre looked so much like her mother Ellen with the flowing brown locks and soft hazel eyes. Miriam shared her eyes and hair, though her flat head and face were said to me more like her father’s. Everyone preferred to not bring up his name. 

“Get Betty on the line,” Ellen said to Lady Miguela.

Lady Miguela pulled out the walkie talkie. 

“Betty,” Lady Miguela said to the walkie talkie.

“Yes?” said the groaning voice of Lady Betty. 

“Ellen has an update.” Lady Miguela handed the walkie talkie to Ellen. 

Justin looked up at the hallway ceiling fluorescent tubes, pretending he wasn’t listening. 

“Betty,” said Ellen. “Justin is going to clean the green room. I’m going back to the boiler room.”

“I knew I could count on you,” said Lady Betty’s long drawn voice. “You are the closest person to a Mamá that he has.” 

Justin was frequently reminded how obvious it was that he was not a bloodborne son in the family with his medium brown skin, dark brown eyes, and spiky black hair. It didn’t matter. Ellen was his dead mother’s friend, not his Mamá.

Justin walked to the broom closet, gladly without the company of anyone else. He opened the broom closet in the hallway. A few brooms spilled onto the concrete floor as the strong scent of molded bread spewed out. He picked up each broom with both hands, changing from one broom to the next one. He held each with both hands, waiting for the feeling to come to him. 

He had to go through at least ten brooms. At the eleventh, he felt something. He clutched the broom handle as a faint warmth inside the broom built up under his palms. He gripped the handle tighter, feeling like he held his hands above a fire. He let go of his right hand and held the attached dustpan. The warmth channeled from his fingers down to his arms. Justin eyed the dustpan and broom. He directed his thoughts to the items in his hands, like they were people who could hear inside his head. Here I am. Talk to me, please. He waited. He felt nothing. He tried again. I am here. Please talk to me. He waited. The broom and pan were warm, but quiet. He had to hurry before he got yelled at, though he wasn’t giving up yet. He closed his eyes as he focused harder. I can feel you. Let me know that you can feel me. Justin felt the broom handle and pan surface vibrate. Channels of energy flowed through his arms and to his spine. He smiled. This would do.

tagging (no obligation): @orphanheirs @unstablewifiaccess @floweryprosegarden @proceduralpassion @leopardsnake-stories @ramitola @minamaybe @winglesswriter @g0ttest0d @tildeathiwillwrite @whatwewrotepodcast and open!

[dudadragneel]

Hello guys! It's me! How are you?

Soo I'm back with another original idea! This one has been sitting in my notes for over a year now 😱

It's about Jake and it's inspired by a video from Youth with you!

I hope you'll enjoy!!

ROOKIE SIDE EFFECTS

It was supposed to be just another typical day for the group, singing practice, dance practice, and rewinding. The only different thing was that they were going to be mentored by Jung Hoseok himself. Given his love for dancing, J-Hope decided to give the rookie group a little bit of advice and evaluate them on their dancing.

They got to the practice room and energetically greeted their sunbae before they started practicing. They danced to a few of their songs and other random songs as well. Everything went smoothly, until the very end.

When they were done dancing and stood in line to hear what their sunbae had to say, one of the members wasn’t quite there anymore.

-   Well done guys! Good work. Now- Jake, are you alright? What’s wrong?

The older asked when he noticed that Jake was bent over his knees, head looking down.

Throughout the dance, Jake started to feel funny, he broke into a cold sweat, his stomach started to act funny and with every movement, every turn, he felt like his stomach’s content just kept on swirling around. When they stopped he braced himself for support and kept looking down, swallowing convulsively, trying to die down the urge to vomit, afraid that if he moved his head, he might lose control.

The boys noticed that something was wrong with Jake and quickly gathered around him. After successfully swallowing down the awful feeling, he lifted his head to look at his sunbae.

-  I’m sorry, can I use the restroom? He asked, face gone pale and sweaty.

- Of course.

With permission from the oldest, Jake quickly left the room.

- Can I go check on him? Jay asked.

- Sure, please.

Jay thought that since the boy was Australian, he would feel more at ease talking in English when feeling sick. When he got to the restroom, the boy was bent over the toilet gagging unproductively.

- Hey, how are you feeling?

- Awful…I don’t know what’s happening. When I was in the room it felt like I could throw up at any minute but now nothing’s coming up.

He said gagging again and spitting out a mouthful of saliva.

- Can I touch you?

Jay asked trying to not make his friend even more uncomfortable.

- Yeah…

Jake said with an exhausted voice

Jay put his hand on the boy’s nape and waist and asked

- Come on, I’ll help you, ok? Try tensing your stomach as if you’re gonna cough.

The boy did as he was told and Jay started to rub his back from bottom to top, gently pressing down when doing so, to stimulate him.

After a few unproductive tries, Jake’s stomach brought up all the food he’d eaten In the past few hours.

He bent even further, painfully arching his back not having time to catch his breath before another wave came up, making him sway on his feet. Jay was fast to grab him by the waist steadying him and guiding him to kneel down.

- There you go. Let it all out, don’t try to hold it in.

He said when he noticed Jake starting to convulsively swallow again.

The boy didn’t want to get sick anymore, everything hurt and he was getting scared and annoyed.

 BACK TO THE PRACTICE ROOM

Everyone in the room looked surprised by the situation, there was an eerie silence before J-Hope spoke.

- What’s going on with him?

He asked, face filled with concern for his hoobae.

- He had a bit of a fever that night, but when he woke up today he said he was feeling better and even had breakfast with us.

The leader answered.

- I guess all the movement made him feel nauseous.

J-Hope took the opportunity to give them a little bit of advice.

- Okay, what I am going to say here is not a lecture ok? Jungwon, as the leader, you need to know every member’s condition, you have the authority to decide whether or not someone is taking part in practice. Of course, you have to talk to the staff before making the best decision.

When he finished his sentence, Jake and Jay walked into the room. The boys gathered around them asking if Jake was alright, the boy gave a quick answer and immediately went to apologize to his sunbae. J-Hope said that he didn’t need to do that and told all of them to sit down, given that Jake wasn’t feeling well. And he sat down as well.

-  Look guys, maybe the staff and the company won't like what I am going to say here but I’m going to be brutally honest. Nothing, nothing, none of this is worth your health. No music, no dance, no show, nothing is worth your health. Your well-being comes first. If you care for your fans as much as you say you do, you need to take care of yourself. Nothing good will come out of you performing while sick or injured and something happening on stage mid-performance. It can be risky to you, and to your members, and it will scare your fans, and you’ll make them worried. It’s best to sit out a few schedules, and a few concerts to treat yourself than to take part in it and worsen your situation, forcing you to take a hiatus, which wouldn’t be needed had you taken care of it earlier. Okay? Remember, your well-being comes before any of this.

The boys looked shocked to hear their sunbae make such a strong statement.

- Now, I’m not lecturing you, just giving some advice, coming from someone who’s been on the run for 8 years. But enough of that. I will give you guys proper individual evaluations at a later date but for now what I can say is that overall all of you improved, your movements are more fluid, your expressions are stronger and your stage presence got way better. I would advise you guys to work on your singing now, given that you evolved in your dancing, your singing abilities need to follow up. You can't come on stage dancing that well and not being able to sing along as well. For now, that’s what I have to say. You guys need to go home, Jake needs to rest. We’ll set up another date so we can get a proper evaluation of all of you, ok?

They all said goodbye to their sunbae and Jake apologized again.

- I’m sorry, sunbaenim.

- There’s no need to apologize. Just focus on getting better, ok? Bye-bye.

As soon as he walked out, the boys went over to check on Jake who had his head in his hands.

- Jake hyung, you okay? – Ni-ki and Sunoo asked

- No…

he said as he felt his stomach’s content making its way up again

– Fuck- pass me the trashcan-

He said in English, which Heeseung was quick to understand, and put the object on the boy’s lap.

Heeseung stayed with Jake rubbing his back while the boy threw up. After he was finished, he started to feel weird, suddenly everything got too much, the lights, the noise, the room, his ears were ringing. His breathing quickened, it felt like he just kept inhaling without getting oxygen. The boys noticed and grew even more concerned.

- Hey, Jake, what’s wrong?

Jay asked, already beside him

- I- I can’t breathe…There’s- there’s too many people… he said in between breaths

- Let’s give him some space

Heeseung said motioning to the boys to get away from the sick boy.

-  I’ll call the manager. – Jungwon said leaving the room.

- Hey, do you want to move to the bathroom? Jay asked.

- I don’t want to move right now, I feel like I’m gonna pass out…- he said holding his head

-  Okay, we’ll leave.

The rest of the boys said as they left the room.

Leaving Jake alone with Jay and Sunghoon.

- Hey, Sunghoon, can you massage his nape for me?

- hm, of course.

Sunghoon kept quiet throughout the whole situation, not because he didn't care, but because he didn't want to do something wrong and make Jake even more annoyed. So when Jay instructed him on what to do, he was quick.

As soon as Sunghoon started massaging Jake's nape, the boy tensed up again, spilling out even more of his stomach's content.

Sunghoon didn't stop what he was doing and Jay went beside Jake to rub his back and try to calm him down, seeing that he was breathing hard again

- Hey, Jake, look at me. I need you to breathe ok? Do it with me. Breathe in 1 2 3 4, hold it 1 2 3 4, and exhale 1 2 3 4. That's it, keep going.

Jake followed along with Jay's instructions until he was breathing normally again.

- There you go, feeling more calm now? Sunghoon asked

- Yeah... sorry for the trouble...

Jake said, voice filled with exhaustion

- There's no need to apologize. We've got you.

- I'm tired...

Jake said as he leaned his weight on Sunghoon.

OUTSIDE THE ROOM

- Oh, Hyung! Jungwon said as the manager answered the phone.

- Oh, Jungwonie. Did you guys finish practice already?

- Yeah, kind of. Jake got sick.

- What? What happened?

- We don't know, he got sick while we were dancing and he threw up 3 times.

- Okay, wait for me. I'll be right there.

- Okay.

- What did he say?

The boys asked Jungwon as soon as he finished the call.

- He's coming here.

The boys went back to the room to find Jake resting on Sunghoon's shoulder and Jay gathering their things.

- The manager is on his way. - Jungwon said coming closer to the trio.

- How is Jake hyung doing? Ni-ki asked with a concerned expression.

- I don't know but he is a little bit more calm now. Jay answered.

A few minutes later the manager got to the room to assess the situation and talk to the boys.

- Hey, guys. Hey Jake, how are you doing?

The manager asked kneeling in front of the boy.

- I feel dizzy, tired and nauseous.

Jake answered not daring to move a muscle, scared that by doing so his stomach would act up again.

- Okay. I'll go talk to the company to cancel the rest of your schedules for the week. Meanwhile, gather your stuff and wait for me in the other room, it's more comfortable there.

- Understood.

- Jake, do you think you can stand up?

Sunghoon asked.

- I think so...

The boy tried to, but his body felt way heavier than he thought. Seeing his struggle, the boys helped him up, careful to not make him even more dizzy, and made their way to the other room.

Jake sat on the couch with Heeseung and Sunghoon by his side, while the others went to buy a sports drink for Jake.

For a while, Jake was calm, the nausea was barely there and he thought he was starting to get better and that all of that could've just been something bad he ate earlier.

Deep down he knew it wasn't the case since the other members were fine, but he tried to hold on to that thought.

The boys came back with a sports drink for Jake, who took it gratefully, the ordeal earlier left his throat dry and raspy, and he was craving for some sort of drink. He took small sips, which his stomach agreed with, and then settled the bottle aside and leaned back on the couch again.

A few minutes after he started to feel his stomach twisting again, the feeling went up to his throat and he quickly sat straight, one hand on his chest and the other tightly gripping Heeseung's hand. He started swallowing convulsively again, trying his best to hold everything in, at least until he could go to the restroom. When he finally managed to swallow it down he asked his hyung for help.

- hyung...can you take me to the bathroom?

He asked taking his hand to cover his mouth.

- Let's go.

Heeseung was quick to help Jake up and guide him to the bathroom. As soon as they got there they went straight into one of the stalls, where Jake immediately threw up, and before he could catch his breath, another wave came up making him sway on his feet again and kneel in front of the toilet.

As he continued to spill his stomach's contents, which by now was basically bile and water, one of the TXT members walked in to find both his hoobaes on the bathroom floor.

- oh my god! Are you guys okay?

Heeseung was startled for a moment, because of the sudden presence of another person and also by the sound of more vomit splattering on the toilet.

- Oh! Soobin hyung!

- What's wrong with Jake? Is he okay?

Soobin asked, clearly worried and walking closer to the duo

- It started about an hour ago, during practice. We don't know what's happening.

Heeseung said as he continued to rub Jake's back.

- H-Heeseung hyung... I think I'm done...

- Okay, let's go. Let's rinse your mouth.

Soobin was quick to help Jake up to his feet and held him close since he swayed when he stood up.

- Thanks Soobin Hyung, sorry for the trouble.

The boys said to the oldest.

- Oh no, you don't need to apologize. If you need any help you can contact us at any time.

- Thank you, Soobin hyung.

The boys left the bathroom and went back to the room and found the manager arriving just in time as well.

- Did he throw up again?

The manager asked.

- Yes, it's the fourth time now.

- Okay. I talked to the company, and your schedules have been canceled for the rest of the week. If by Monday, Jake's still not recovered he will remain resting and you guys will return to your normal schedules. Now we'll go to the hospital to figure out what's happening. Jake, can you walk?

- I feel dizzy, I don't think I can.

- Okay, I'll give you a piggyback ride to the car. Let's go. The manager said, getting the boy on his back.

The boys all settled in the car, Jake sitting closer to the door with Ni-Ki in case something happened while the others sat randomly.

The ride was quite peaceful, Jake tried to keep looking forward so that the movement of the landscape wouldn't make him feel nauseous. And it seemed to be working well, until the manager passed a spring breaker without noticing which made the car move abruptly, leading to Jake's stomach acting up again.

He could feel the burning sensation coming up his throat and saliva pooling inside his mouth. He started swallowing convulsively again, and he grabbed Ni-ki's hand unknowingly and gripped tight, which Ni-ki noticed.

- Hyung? What is it? Do you feel sick again?

The younger asked, squeezing Jake's hand to reassure him he was there.

- Y-yes. P-pull over. He managed to say before he gagged into his hand.

- Hyung! Stop the car! Jungwon told the manager.

They managed to stop at a rest area. Thankfully not so far from the hospital.

Jake stumbled out of the car, bending over as he immediately threw up, using his hands on his knees to not lose balance.

Sunghoon and Ni-ki went over to hold him by the waist as another wave made him arch his back, making him lose his balance.

- We've got you. Dont worry.

Sunghoon said, rubbing Jake's back and removing his sweaty bangs from his forehead.

The other members went to the convenience store to buy him something to drink.

- Here. Drink this. It's a sports drink, your favorite flavor. I think it might help you a little.

Jay said handing him the bottle.

Jake gratefully took the drink, given that his mouth tasted vile. His stomach decided to accept it, for now, apparently giving him a brake.

They waited a few more minutes until Jake felt safe to get into the car again and made their way to the hospital.

AT THE HOSPITAL

- Good afternoon! How are you guys doing?

The doctor who examined Jake was already known to take care of the members' health.

- Hello, doctor. We're well... I guess.

Jungwon and Jay were the ones, along with the manager, who entered the room with Jake.

- what happened with Jake?

The doctor asked, getting up to take his vitals.

- He had a mild fever last night and today during practice he started to vomit.

- How many times did he throw up?

- About five now

- Okay, that's concerning. Jake, what are you feeling right now?

The boy was still feeling nauseous and the thought of having to answer was making the sensation even worse. He took a few breaths in and when the feeling died down a bit he answered.

- Really nauseous....my head hurts and I feel a little dizzy...

- I see. Well. You are running a fever now, it's 37.5 °C. And your blood pressure is rather low.

Here's what we're gonna do. I will take a few blood samples so we can know what's going on. I think it's probably a stomach bug. While we wait for the results, you'll stay here on I.V. drips, since you can't keep anything down and you're getting dehydrated.

But before the doctor could finish what she/he was saying, Jake's nausea increased and made him gag into his hand.

- I-I'm sorry- I'm gonna be sick-

He manages to say before a stream of water and bile hits the bin, which thankfully the doctor managed to put on his lap. Before he could take a breath, another wave came up, hurting his already sore throat, Jungwon was rubbing his hyung's back through the whole ordeal.

- I'm sorry....

he said wiping his mouth and taking a sip of water.

- No, don't worry! You can lay down there, I'll get the I.V. drop ready. It might make you a little nauseous. I'll be back in 40 minutes.

40 MINUTES PASS

- Okay, I got the results. As I suspected, it's a stomach flu/bug. I'll give you a prescription for the nausea and one for the fever. Don't take any of them on an empty stomach, okay? We don't want to further irritate your stomach. The fever reducer only take them if the fever is past 37,6°C, if not, let the body do its work. Other than that, I'll give you some advice. Drink lots of water, and sports drinks as well, it'll keep you hydrated. You can also drink mint tea, ginger tea, or lemongrass tea, they'll also help with the nausea, but don't put any sugar. You can eat some soup, with very little seasoning to not trigger the nausea. And also bread, if you're feeling really hungry but you're afraid of eating anything with the littlest of seasoning, bread will help you. It's got no seasoning other than salt and it'll also help with your stomach acid.

- Thank you, doctor! The boys said together.

- This should take about 4-5 days to get better. If by the fifth day, you're still throwing up, come back here so we can run more tests.

- Understood.

- Great! Get well soon Jake, I hope I don't see you in five days (the doctor said giggling). But do contact me so I'll know how he's doing. Oh! One more thing before you leave. Take this (the doctor said giving them a sick bag). Trust me, it'll be of great help on your way home.

- Thank you, doctor!

They left the hospital and Jungwon updated the members on Jake's condition. The boys were still worried but relieved that they now knew what to do.

- Jake, do you want to go straight home or can we stop by the drugstore to buy your medicines? (The manager asked)

- We can go to the drugstore first.... the sick boy answered clearly exhausted by the whole ordeal.

The ride to the drugstore and the dorm obviously wasn't peaceful with Jake getting sick twice. The boys were very, very grateful to the doctor for giving them the sick bag.

AT THE DORM

Sunghoon and Jungwon helped Jake walk to the dorm. After throwing up more than 6 times, the boy could barely keep his eyes open, or move his legs, they felt like jelly.

- Finally, we're home!

They said letting out a big sigh of relief. Jake was now at home and he could be properly taken care of.

- Jake, what you wanna do now?

- I wanna take a bath, I feel really gross...

- Okay, Sunghoon and I will stay with you.

Jay said getting closer to the boy and wrapping his hand around his waist.

- We'll make something for him to eat. Heeseung said walking to the kitchen with the other boys.

While Sunghoon and Jay were in the bathroom with Jake, Jungwon got a phone call.

- oh! It's Soobin hyung! He said, while his eyes widened in surprise.

The others gathered around him as he put the phone on speaker.

- Oh! Jungwon! How are you guys? Did you get home safely?

- Soobin hyung! We're good! We just got back home.

- How's Jake? Did you guys go to the hospital?

- yes. It's a stomach bug/flu. The doctor gave some prescriptions for medicine and said that it should take about 4 days until he is better.

- I see. Well, at least it's nothing serious. I also called to say that Taehyun was making him some soup.

- oh! There was no need to, sunbaenims are busy.

- he insisted heheh. He said he would do it with very light seasoning. It will be ready in about 40 minutes. We'll go deliver it to you guys.

If you need any help, don't hesitate to ask!

- Thank you Hyung!

IN THE BATHROOM

Jay and Sunghoon decided to help Jake to the shower, as it would be safer that way, given that the sick boy threw up about seven times that day and could barely stand. They were never as grateful as now for having a bathtub.

- Guys....you don't need to be here..... I'm okay...

- No. Nope. No way. You're not passing out on me. No no. We'll stay here, whether you like it or not.

- But... it's embarrassing...

- just cover up then. Come on.

- Get in the bathtub. It's safer this way.

Sunghoon said guiding Jake to sit on the bathtub.

- Okay.... but... leave the bin closed. I don't want to puke on the water I'm bathing with.

- Okay.

The shower was going smoothly until Jake started feeling nauseous again. He shut his eyes and squeezed his hands so tight his knuckles turned white. His breathing labored which caught the boys' attention.

- Hey, Jake, are you feeling sick again?

Sunghoon asked getting closer to him and putting his hand on his shoulder.

Jake was feeling so weak he only managed to nod before gagging.

Thankfully Sunghoon was quick enough to get the bin under Jake's chin before the boy threw up for the eighth time that day. As was expected, only bile and water came out, and even after there was nothing left to come up, his body insisted on convulsing and arching his back which was getting annoyingly painful. But thank heavens Sunghoon kept his hand on Jake's back throughout the whole ordeal.

Seeing his friend in distress Jay decided to help Jake, as he saw the boy's face go pale.

- Hey hey hey. You're not passing out on me, remember? Here, lean your back here. Breathe with me okay? Come on. Breathe in four, hold for, and exhale four.

After a few minutes following Jay's instructions, the color had returned to Jake's face and he felt like he had control of his body again.

- There you go. Feeling better?

- Yeah...a little... thanks.

- let's just try to relax a bit more before we get out okay? Lean your back there, I'm gonna warm up the water a little bit more. There, how is it?

- Woah, relaxing....

Jake said with a tired smile on his face, the first one since all of the ordeal started.

- Great. Let's stay like this for a while, hm? Just feel the water trailing down your back and keep breathing...

A few minutes passed until Jake was finally well enough to come out of the bath without fainting.

While they were in the bathroom the others were quick to get Jake's bed ready so that everything he would have to do now was rest.

Jay and Sunghoon helped him settle down on the bed and make sure he was feeling a little bit better.

- Thanks, guys.... I'm sorry for the trouble...

- There's no need to thank us. We're brothers remember?

Jay said with a smile putting his hand on the sick boy's shoulder.

- How are you feeling?

- Relaxed... I needed that bath, I was feeling really gross. I'm feeling refreshed at least.

- That's good. I need to go finish some things. I'll come back later.

Jay said leaving the boy with Sunghoon.

They all decided to take turns to stay with Jake, to keep him company and also to make sure he would be safe.

Sunghoon was the first one to stay in the bedroom. Despite everything, Jake wasn't really sleepy, he felt tired but not enough to fall asleep. So they just talked. In fact, Jake asked Sunghoon to keep chatting with him so he could distract himself from the nausea. It wasn't gone but it wasn't as strong as before.

The idea worked. Jake was lying down on the bed and Sunghoon was sitting comfortably next to him, chatting until it was time for another member to come in.

Now it was Ni-ki, and he had bought some things with him.

- Hi, hyung. How are you feeling?

- A bit nauseous but better overall I guess... What's that?

He asked pointing to what was in Ni-ki's hands.

- This is something my mom used to do whenever I got sick or had headaches. You said you had a headache, right Hyung?

- Hmm...

- This will help. It's hot water mixed with some herbs. The mix should help with relieving the pain and I hope the smell will help with your nausea.

- Thanks Ni-Ki.

Ni-Ki carefully placed the wet clothes over Jake's forehead and eyes and it did feel heavenly. It helped relax the tenseness he felt and the nausea as well, it didn't take long before he was fast asleep.

About 3 hours later, Jake woke up, feeling better like he really needed that sleep. It took some time for him to take in his surroundings since he still had the wet cloth on his forehead but he looked to the side and found Jay on his phone.

- hey.

- oh! You're awake. Did you sleep well?

- Yeah. That wet cloth Ni-Ki bought really helped.

- How are you feeling now?

- Better.

- And the nausea?

- Barely there. It feels almost gone now.

- Thank goodness. We were thinking of watching a movie now since it's raining. Want to join us?

- Yes. I think getting distracted will help.

- then let's go.

The boys all gathered in the living room, some of them had bowls of popcorn, others some other snacks, and Jake settled for a bottle of water. Even though he was feeling better, popcorn and such probably wouldn't be a good choice for his stomach.

They turned off the lights and put the movie to play. It was an action/horror genre, very suited for a stormy noon. They were all enjoying it, with the scared cats jumping every once in a while, bringing much amusement to the brave ones. Jake was part of the scaredy-cat group, and despite being jumpy, he was enjoying the movie for a while.

But after 1 hour, he started to feel funny again, the brightness from the TV along with the flashing from the movie and the smell of popcorn and chips started to kick in. He felt his head begin to throb again and the nausea that was controlled had come back in full force. He took a small sip of his water and sunk into the couch, eyes fixed anywhere else but the TV. He gripped the fabric of his pants until his knuckles turned white as he began swallowing convulsively. He managed to swallow the urge to vomit and relaxed but that moment of peace only lasted for a few seconds. Another strong wave of nausea enrolled him, making him repeat the process, swallowing convulsively and trying to take deep breaths. Jay who was sitting by his side noticed the sudden change in behaviour.

- Hey, Jake, bro are you okay?

- N-no-

He answered and immediately gagged wetly into his hand making Jay spring into action.

- Shit! Let's go to the bathroom.

He said helping Jake up and darting to the bathroom with him, leaving the other six completely shocked.

Jake went straight to the toilet and bent over as a thick stream of vomit gushed out of him, some hitting his hands and the edges of the toilet and splashing inside the bowl with a sickening sound.

- Easy bro.

Jay said as he rubbed Jake's back and the sick boy let out a wet burp that brought up an even thicker wave of vomit mixing inside the bowl. And to add to his misery, the fever that seemingly gone seemed to have returned. He could feel his body burn, even Jay's hand felt both comforting and painful because of the fever. And Jay noticed through the touch that the fever might've spiked.

- I think your fever spiked again.

He said brushing Jake's bangs out of the way and placing a hand on his forehead.

- yep. It's definitely high.

By now, the others were in the bathroom that Jay forgot to close, clearly worried about Jake's condition.

- How is he?

Jungwon asked voice filled with worry and a slight tone of fear. He was the leader but he was also the second youngest.

- Not good. I think his fever is high again.

- I'll get a thermometer.

Heeseung said already leaving.

Jake choked and started coughing making his head throb in pain which left him lightheaded. He swayed forward and Jay secured him and guided him to kneel in front of the toilet.

- There you go. I don't want you passing out on me.

As soon as he was kneeling, he jerked forward as another wave of pale brown vomit made its way out.

Heeseung came back with the thermometer and handed it to Jay.

- 38.3°C. It's really high. You'll have to take the medication.

- I don't think I can...

- Try to take some anti-emetic first and then you take the other.

- I'll try.

Jake threw up one more time before he was left dry heaving over the toilet.

- I think you're done. Let's rinse your mouth and get you to bed.

Jay helped him to the sink, he rinsed his mouth and the boys took him to the bedroom. They got some sports drinks and the pills for the sick boy.

He managed to take both but the boys placed a bucket in his lap just in case. And indeed, taking the medication triggered his stomach but he managed to control it and didn't throw up.

They left the bucket near the bed, helped him lie down, and covered him.

Ni-Ki had school the other day but he made sure his hyung was taken care of and made the same mix from before to help him. He put the wet cloth on his forehead covering his eyes and then went to sleep.

Jay slept with him and woke up every now and then to check Jake's temperature and help him through vomiting episodes.

Just like the doctor said, Jake spent 4 days throwing up a few times during the day and night but the boys were there to help throughout the process until his recovery.

[elsanna-shenanigans]

November/October 2023 Contest Submission #4: part of your world

Words: ca. 4,000 Setting: Urban fantasy AU Lemon: lime Content: Birds and the bees discussion, mentions of homophobia

“How do you think they fucked?”

Elsa dropped her book. “What.” Did Anna seriously just… That girl will be the death of her.

“Our parents. How do you think they fucked?” Anna repeated her question, as if Elsa hadn’t heard her.

Regaining her composure, and picking the book from the ground, she responded, trying to sound nonchalantly. “Similar to us, I’d wager.” 

“Well, duh, but you don’t have a penis. Wait, does dad have one?” Anna seemed genuinely curious.

“Yes, Anna, our father, in fact, does have a penis. What kind of question is that?” Elsa tried really hard to not blush, knowing it’s a losing battle.

“Well I don’t know mermaid anatomy!”

“Yes, but… you know what, I don’t want to think about it anymore. Our father has a penis. End of story.” She picked her book up.

“How do you know that?” 

“It may be shocking, but since we are naked underwater, I have seen naked members of my species. Father included.”

“And what, you never wondered how they managed it?”

“No, why the fuck would I?”

“Prude.”

“Rude.”

Anna clearly wanted to add something, so Elsa decided to quickly change the topic. “What are you reading anyway?”

Anna smiled. “History of the early Arendelle, around the tenth century. Though that was before our family. What about you?”

Ah, Arendelle. Anna’s current hyperfixation was finding everything she could on the small country whose rulers were apparently their mother’s ancestors. She has never seen Anna as offended as when she asked if she was proud of that ancestry. ‘What, no, fuck the monarchy! But history is interesting, and this is basically our history. Also they were weirdly accepting of homosexuality for the time, so at least there is that.’

“Eh, just some trashy hetero romance. Apparently it’s a very important piece of your culture, so I thought I should check it out.” Elsa replied.

“Hey, if you’re going to be a part of our society, it’s good if you know that stuff.”

“I knooooow, but why couldn’t it be just a tiny bit gay?”

“Because homophobia is still present and what you’re reading is a hundred years old.”

“Stupid human rules.”

“100% there with you, sis.”

They went back to their lectures. They were currently both sunbathing (or, Anna was sunbathing and Elsa was enjoying the sun, seeing as her pale skin didn’t really tan) on the beach. After a moment of silence, Anna’s phone rang. “Oh, looks like Kristoff can come over today. If you’re still okay with meeting him?” She looked questioningly at Elsa.

“Of course! We already hid me for long enough. But I want to be inside, and wearing a T-shirt.” 

“Sure thing, I’ll tell him. That he can come, not the T-shirt thing.”

***

“So… she is your sister.” Krtistoff looked baffled.

“Twin sister, yeah.” Anna replied, blushing a bit but not bothering to swat away Elsa’s hand, currently caressing her cheek. 

When they finally got the green light to stop hiding Elsa, she wanted to tell her best friend immediately. Elsa was very willing, but Anna apparently missed the crucial detail of her Elsa not really understanding what constitutes an appropriate behavior between sisters, and so the conversation was happening while Elsa sat sideways across Anna’s knees, her lips glued to her sister’s neck, with her light blue tail half laying on the floor. Kristoff was, suffice to say, shocked, but he nevertheless sat down, and Anna tried to bring him back to speed. Elsa, on her part, greeted him politely, before getting back to her efforts to devour Anna neck first.

“And she is… a fish.” At that, Elsa peeled off Anna (plop) for a moment, and narrowed her eyes at him.

“And you’re a mammal. What does that have to do with anything?”

“I’m sorry. This is all very shocking.” He turned his eyes to Anna again, as Elsa continued her antics. “And you never told me this because?”

“Government wanted to cover up any supernatural sightings, so we got a ton of money, and a ton of subtle death threats to never mention her to anyone. But after the dragon incident in Vien, they couldn’t contain it any more, and so we got a green light to stop hiding her.”

“Okay. I guess. Umm… and why is she so… touchy with you?”

Ah. So the strategy of not addressing the elephant in the room was not working. What now? ‘Kristoff, we are actually also in an incestous relationship’? That wouldn’t fly, probably. May be worth it for his face though. Option two it is then.

“This is perfectly normal.”

“I didn’t say it wasn’t.”

“She is cold blooded and likes my warmth.”

“And the neck thing…?”

Elsa stopped again. “It’s perfectly normal for my people.” She tried, and failed, to discreetly wink at Anna. “Now come on, I can see you’re dying to ask a bunch of questions that will make all of us uncomfortable, so go for it. This is your only chance.”

Kristoff, still barely registering what’s going on, decided to just go along with it, wondering when exactly he would wake up. “Alright. So… how are you sisters exactly?”

Elsa straightened her back, and embraced Anna, turning her head towards him. “Our father is a mermaid. And mother is…” She turned to Anna, who finished for her. “A monsterfucker.”

Kristoff’s eyes went wide. “A what now?”

“A monsterfucker. I’m pretty sure we have a centaur brother somewhere. But overall, interspecies pregnancies are extremely rare, so she really had to put in the work. And it’s 50/50 on what species the kid will be. So it just happened to be that Elsa is a mermaid, and I’m a human. I can hold my breath for a while longer than normal though, and can survive higher pressure. Don’t know how much higher, obviously. Oh, and Elsa dries up a bit slower.”

“How did they even… You know what? I don’t even care anymore. This day was too much already.” He shook his head, and continued. “How do you breathe here? I can see the gills on your neck.”

“Not sure how that works, but as long as they’re wet, I can breathe air. Probably part magic part super-complex-biology-we-wouldn’t-understand.”

“Alright, sure, may as well just accept that. Wouldn’t your dad be a triton though?”

“What?” Elsa asked.

“Well, if he is like you, but a dude, isn’t that a triton?”

“Did you just… humansplain me? No, he is a mermaid.”

“I… you know what? I will just stop talking. Thanks for an almost heart attack Anna. I guess I understand you didn’t have a choice but to keep it a secret but… it still hurts.” He stood up. “Pleasure meeting you, Elsa. I’m sorry for being inconsiderate, but given I didn’t know you existed half an hour ago, I think I did well.”

Elsa’s eyes softened. “You did. It could go a lot worse. Anna always talked about you like a brother, so I wanted to meet you for years. Glad we didn’t have to wait longer.” She extended her hand to him, and he shook it. 

He quickly pulled it away though, and wiped it on his jeans. “Your hand is wet! And webbed! No, sorry, not talking anymore, I will just go.” Elsa chuckled.

Anna shrugged. “You get used to it.” 

Kristoff left the room, pinching his arm and muttering under his breath. 

Anna turned to Elsa. “That went well.” Elsa nodded. “Although I wish I didn’t forget to warn you to be less…” She gestured to Elsa’s but still firmly on her lap. “Elsa-y. Elsy. Whatever.”

“Oh, right, your weird obsession with incest.” Elsa replied.

“It’s not weird, it makes evolutionary sense and with all the evidence of it affecting children and…” She huffed, seeing that Elsa wasn’t really listening. “Doesn’t matter. What else do you want to do on your first day out-out?” 

Elsa thought for a moment. “First, I need to soak a bit. But then… I always wanted to go on a walk in our town with you.”

Anna beamed. “You got it! I’ll get you to the bathtub and then bring the wheelchair.”

Elsa relaxed and embraced Anna tighter, as she stood up, carrying her. “I love you.”

“Love you too, silly.” Anna kissed her forehead.

***

They were walking around the town, purposefully ignoring all the looks directed at Elsa. They had no real destination in mind; Elsa just wanted to see how an actual city looks like, not an artificial one built on a secret island for only the government officials and those under its “protection”. 

“I must admit, this just feels more authentic. I had no idea humans can wear colors, I thought you were just a weird one.”

Anna smacked her lightly. “Hey! Not my fault government people think you need to look boring and scary on the job. Though if you want colors, you should see a pride parade.”

“Oh yeah, they sound amazing.” Elsa looked back at her. “When is the next one?”

“June. So, in like a month.”

“We have to go there.”

“Sure thing. Now let’s go eat something, I’m starving.”

“Just pick a good place.”

***

They entered a small, local restaurant.

“I want cow!” Elsa immediately exclaimed.

“What?” Anna looked down at her.

“Cow? Beef? Big horny thing.”

“Please don’t ever call it a big horny thing again. Sure, we can get beef. Why that though?” Anna moved them to a table and sat down.

Elsa shrugged. “Never had it, and I heard it’s the toughest meat you eat. I got kinda tired of stuff you can barely chew.”

They placed their orders (the waiter too dead inside to pay any attention to a sudden mermaid in the restaurant) and waited. Elsa spoke “Won’t they mind that I’m soaking everything I touch?”

Anna thought for a bit. “Maybe. But you waited 20 years for that, and if the government didn’t prepare anyone, that’s their problem. Also I will tip them a lot.”

“That works for me.”

Their orders arrived, and they dug in. While it was definitely nice to try something new, Elsa decided that she still prefers her regular diet. She decided not to mention that. They were chatting when someone approached their table.

“Oh hi Anna. Haven’t seen you in a while.” 

Elsa looked up. Looking at Anna stood a tall man with absolutely atrocious sideburns.

“Oh. Hans.” Anna didn’t sound happy. Elsa just looked between them, the man visibly trying very hard to not look at her. 

After a moment of awkward silence, he spoke. “Not going to introduce us?” He gestured at Elsa. 

Anna sighed quietly, and forced a smile. “Sure! Elsa, this is Hans, a local himbo. Remember my ex I broke up with because a girl caught my eye?” Elsa remembered. The following night even more so. “Hans, this is my sister, Elsa.”

Elsa waved at him. “Hi.” 

He blinked. “Sister?” He quickly turned to Elsa. “Uh, sorry, hello.” 

Anna sighed, purposefully loud this time. “Yup, twin sister.”

“How did I not know that?”

“Government cover up.”

“Wait, really? That’s cool as hell!”

“Sure is. Real, I mean. Wasn’t cool when I wanted to go somewhere outside our house.” Elsa said.

“Oh yeah, that’d suck. Sorry.” Hans thought for a second. “Wanna come to a pool party? I’m sure people would kill to see a fish girl there.”

Elsa looked questioningly at Anna, who shrugged. “If you want to, we can go.”

Elsa wondered for a bit. She did always want to go to a party, but Anna seemed to not like this guy very much. Though she did agree to go, and they could always go back home if needed. “Sure, we’ll go, mammal boy.”

He gave them the address and left.

“Just be sure to tell me if you want to go home, I don’t want you to have a bad time.” Elsa said.

“Nah, don’t worry, he wasn’t terrible, it was just an awkward meeting. Party could be fun though.”

***

They arrived at the party. Other than Hans, and surprisingly, Kristoff, Anna didn’t know anybody there. But everyone was very interested in Elsa, and it quickly turned out that she was great at entertaining people, telling them all sorts of anecdotes about life underwater. Feeling more confident now about leaving her alone, she approached Kristoff.

“Surprised to see you here.” She started. “I thought you don’t like parties.”

“I don’t.” He blushed. “But Ryder is here, so I thought that’d be a good occasion.”

Anna smiled. Ah, the crush. “Well then, what’s the problem?”

Kristoff sighed. “Your sister. There is no way I’m one upping a first encounter with a mermaid.”

Anna hadn’t considered that. “I guess that’s true. Well, we didn’t know you’d be here.”

He shrugged. “Not your fault. I’ll try to invite him over for something.”

As Anna wanted to respond, a loud splash caught her attention. 

Hans was standing next to Elsa’s wheelchair, laughing, while her sister was flailing in the pool. Fuck, how could I forget?! Wasting no time she ran and jumped in, and tried to get Elsa out. Elsa however, seemed to not be fully aware of what was going on and fought back. Anna yelled again. “COME HELP ME YOU MORON OR I’M DROWNING YOU NEXT!”

Hans didn’t seem to understand. “What’s the big deal? I thought she was good at swimming.” His smirk became uncertain.

“IT’S CHLORIFIED WATER AND SHE BREATHES THAT IN!” She managed to pull Elsa’s neck above the water.

Realization dawned on Hans’ face. He jumped into the water and helped carry Elsa out. As soon as she was out she started wheezing, her gills trying to expel all that water. Anna quickly grabbed a water bottle and started pouring it onto her sister’s neck, trying to rinse all the chlorine she could. After that, Elsa passed out. Her neck was irritated, and the gills themselves burnt, but she was breathing. Anna held her close, trying to fight back the anger, at herself and at Hans. She kept ignoring him, and called their doctor.

“Lewis? There had been an incident. We need you, now.”

*** 

Anna washed Elsa’s gills with a sponge of seawater again. After the doctor has confirmed that she mostly just needs rest, Anna put her into the bathtub filled with saltwater, and kept an eye on her. Elsa had an awful rash around her neck, and her scales seemed more pale, but other than that she seemed to be okay. It’s been three hours and Anna was starting to get tired. Finally, Elsa moved.

“Elsa! How are you feeling?” Anna quickly moved to face her.

“Fuuck, my head. And neck.” She touched her neck. “Why was the water… burning?”

“It was chlorified. Asshole threw you in without thinking and I forgot to check that. I’m sorry." 

"What does that mean?” Elsa lifted her eyes, clearly exhausted.

“It’s a… chemical we use for our pools to keep them clean.”

“Clean? That’s rich coming from the biggest ocean polluters.”

“Well, clean from… any aquatic life. Algae, mostly.”

Elsa scoffed. “That fits you more. So how come I’m alive?”

Anna looked apologetic. “Well, you were in for like 20 seconds before I pulled you out, firstly. And secondly, the dosage was never meant for anything bigger than like a wasp.”

“Lucky me.” She started coughing. “Will I recover?”

“Yes, Lewis came to see you and he said you should be good until the end of the week. In the meantime you have to soak a lot, and I have some meds for you." 

She went to grab a few pills, which Elsa quickly swallowed.

"Sorry I was an ass.” Elsa said. “I know it’s not you throwing tires to my home.”

“Babe, we’ve been over this a million times. You’re allowed to get angry at this situation, and if you being an ass is a few snarky comments, I think I lucked out with the most patient angel on Earth, both on land and in the water.” They both smiled for a bit, before Elsa grimaced in pain. “You okay?”

“Yeah, just a gigantic headache. I think I need a nap. Or to sleep, it’s getting late.”

“Hmm…” Anna mused purposefully loudly.

“Anna, this bathtub is tiny. This can not be comfortable for you.”

“As if you’d know miss I-don’t-have-legs-but-like-to-judge-what-is-and-isn’t-comfortable-for-them.”

Elsa rolled her eyes. “Fine, fine, get in, but don’t complain if you’re extremely thirsty in the morning.”

“Hah! I’ll be extremely thirsty long before that.” Anna smiled smugly.

“Just get in, you dork.”

“You love me.” She stuck her tongue out.

“More than you could possibly know.” She got slapped lightly on the shoulder.

“Shut up you sap, tonight is not a night for crying.”

They enjoyed the silence for a bit. Anna started playing with Elsa’s blonde hair, when her sister spoke again. “I want to show you something, when I get better. Will you go swimming with me?”

Anna chuckled. “Do you even need to ask? Always.”

***

Anna emerged from the water, and she took a deep breath. She found herself in a small cave, with the walls shining, reflecting the light back. Combined with also the shiny surface of the water, the effect was stunning. But… how exactly could she see?

“Ohhh do you have those weird glowing fish in jars here somewhere?” She asked, excited.

“What? Why would I do that? And when would I feed them? I bought some LEDs and waterproof batteries.” Elsa, just now emerging, replied.

“Because it would be cool, duh.” She responded, rolling her eyes.

“Animal cruelty is never cool, Anna.”

“Ohh, you’re going full vegan now?” 

“You know I would if my digestive system allowed that. Can we go back on the topic?”

“That is the first topic of this conversation.”

“Fine. Can I tell you why I wanted to bring you here?”

“Sure.” She looked up, excited.

“There are a ton of places like this in the oceans. Those small caves with trapped air bubbles. This makes them completely unremarkable. And this means-” Elsa paused for a moment, her eyes shining with excitement.”- that this specific one is very remarkable. We are probably the only people who ever were or ever will be here. Most likely the only multicellular organisms in general, given how little food there is here. And if there was ever a person I wanted to share a moment like this, a moment that is, and always will be, only ever for us - it’s you.”

She was met with a brief silence, and looked worriedly at her sister. “Sorry, I thought that sounded kinda cool.”

Anna sniffled. “It is. I just got overwhelmed a bit.” She composed herself. “It’s beautiful.”

“I’m glad.” Elsa smiled.

“So,” Anna continued, an ominous smirk upon her lips. ”what did you have in mind for this extremely private moment that no one will ever witness?”

Elsa blushed. “I had… few ideas.” They swam closer to each other.

“Tell me about them. In excruciating detail.”

“I would prefer a presentation.”

Pale lips met red ones, and huh, salt water doesn’t taste so bad once you get used to it, she thought, before all thought ceased.

***

After they both calmed down a bit, Elsa spoke again. “There is a second reason why I wanted to take you swimming today.” She got closer to a wooden box Anna noticed on the rocks, and pulled a netty bag out of it. “Now put your scuba gear back on, I promise you’ll love this.”

Anna did as she was told, and soon they were diving even deeper. She knew this depth was probably dangerous to regular humans, but she tested her limits long ago and knew it was safe for her. 

“So,” Elsa said again. “I took a look into your recent obsession, you know, the kingdom?” Anna nodded, since she couldn’t speak. “Yeah, so, I asked around, and found something that will be of great interest to you. Did you also bring the camera?” Anna nodded again. “Great!” She sped up a little, but made sure Anna was able to follow her. Anna was glad to be here with her again. They often went on trips like this, and Elsa always felt great being able to be one taking the lead. And Anna was alway happy to see her so energetic and, as it were, in her element.

After what felt like an hour, they reached the bottom. They were relatively close to the shore, so it wasn’t too deep, but Anna still wasn’t sure what to expect. Elsa swam excitedly around her. “So, get ready for the big reveal.” She pulled a big waterproof flashlight out of the bag she was carrying, and turned it on.

Anna’s eyes went wide. There, before her, laid a wreck of an old wooden ship, at least a few hundred years old. Elsa immediately swam inside and gestured for Anna to come with. Trusting her sister, she did so. Inside, she saw a lot of seaweed, some crabs that ran away when they approached, and a lot of destroyed furniture. She still didn’t know why Elsa wanted her to be there. “Take a look at this!” Elsa said, forcing open one of the drawers. Inside, there was a bunch of cutlery, and Elsa grabbed one of the spoons and brought it closer to Anna’s face. Then, Anna understood. The royal crocus of Arendelle. 

Elsa beamed. Anna was… shocked, to say the least. “I’m guessing this is all a lot to take in for you,” Elsa said, ”but come on, it’s basically our inheritance, right? And it’s not like anyone’s using it here, so, just grab what you want, and we can have a moral debate about this once you can talk.” Anna couldn’t really argue with that logic, and so she shrugged and began to pack her bag, while Elsa took a bunch of photos. They took most of the cutlery, a few candlesticks, and a dagger. She wished there would be some old books or documents, but seeing where they were, she knew that was impossible. She grabbed Elsa’s hand and gestured upwards. Elsa nodded and they swam to the surface.

***

Once back in their backyard, Anna finally spoke. “I can’t believe we did that!”

Elsa shrugged. “As I said, it is kinda our inheritance. And if you feel bad about it, you can always donate it to a museum or something.”

Anna sighed. “I guess you’re right, it’s just… I never imagined myself doing anything like this, you know?”

Elsa looked a bit guilty. “Did you… not like it? I admit, even though we were mostly raised together, human morals and rules are still foreign to me. I can go put it back if you want.”

“No, no, I loved it!” Anna quickly said. “It’s just kinda weird. I can’t express how much I appreciate you going through all that effort for me, really.”

Elsa blushed. “I read in one of your books about the royal ship that sank around here. I asked a few friends and they told me about some wrecks, and I looked around. This was the third that I checked.”

Anna came closer and hugged her. “Thank you. Learning history is one thing, but touching it is- it’s something else entirely. I was just shocked.”

Elsa smiled. “I’m glad. Now come cuddle on the beach with me.”

And so they did.

[aotearoa20]

Ghost Hunter Au: Time Bomb

When Celegorm was small he’d had an argument with his mother about the appropriate amount of ice cream a small child ought to consume on a hot day. It did not go well for him. He shouted and screamed but Nerdanel was adamant. When his face turned red and birds started to fall out of the sky, she sighed and brought him inside but insisted on one ice cream a day maximum, even on a hot day.

She’d gone to the freezer later that day and found it had all melted inside the box. Looking up she’d seen silver eyes staring at her reproachfully from behind the kitchen counter but she met his gaze, eyebrow raised and tossed the ruined dessert in the bin.

The tantrum didn’t last, of course. Before bedtime he’d had run up to her laden with apologies and promises to be good and please please please don’t send me away. And she took him and placed him on her lap and spoke with gentle seriousness.

She told him she wasn’t mad about the freezer. She told him she was upset about the birds.

Celegorm loves his mother more than anything. He loves her because she doesn’t call him cursed. She doesn’t call him evil. She doesn’t even say ‘don’t be angry’ because he can’t. He tried. He’s tried so hard but his temper burns and spits in his chest and up his arms and throat until it’s unbearable to deny.

But she said ‘when you are angry you must be extra careful not to hurt people.’ Because you’ll regret it after. Ice cream can be bought but you can’t bring little birds back to life. Or little brothers.

So now that he is older and Caranthir is driving him insane, he doesn’t stare at his stupid face until his jaw shatters (even though he’s pretty sure he can) and he holds his tongue and doesn’t say anything that will make his brother do anything awful (never never again) He just storms upstairs throws himself onto his pillow and screams

The bed groans and the window cracks (again, Nelya is going to lecture him later) and the lights flicker but Moryo is safe and he’s sure sometime in the future he’ll be glad of that.

The smell of ash and sulfur forces him to lift his head. The ruined fabric of his bedsheets hands limply in his fingers, too long and pointed to be natural. He clenches and unclenches his hands until the look normal, by his standards anyway, refusing to let anything like panic reach his face. That’s new.

It’s only going to get worse you know

He jerks his head to the mirror, also cracked, where a fair face leers out at him.

“Go away,” he hissed

The creature sighs, a single red eye blinking lazily on his forehead. He leans across the edge of the shelf, singeing the dark varnished wood.

You are wasting all of our time, little one. This is who you are, why deny it?

“‘Who I am’ hurts people,” he mutters until his pride overcomes his despair “Actually fuck you! ‘Who I am’ doesn’t want the shitty parts of me to hurt people.”

You’re lying. Don’t pretend you didn’t want to put that miserable little creature in his place.

“I’m not lying!” he looks away, “I’m just angry…”

You want to mean that, but you don’t.

Celegorm bit his lip. Sharp teeth draw blood and he is afraid because he truly doesn’t know. There’s a knock at the door. The face in the mirror disappears but the presence doesn’t. It never goes away…

“Turko?”

“Leave me alone.”

“I’m sorry.”

Celegorm feels the burning in his chest melt away a little and with the greatest relief. He hums in answer, folding his knees to his chest and rearranging his face.

Caranthir walks in slowly. He doesn’t even glance at window, coming to sit at on the bed. Celegorm closes his eyes leaning his head down on his knees, listening to his heartbeat.

“What did you do?” His brother points to his ruined bed linen

He shook his head not trusting himself to speak. The thing in his head roils in indignation. Why should he feel ashamed?

“It’s my fault. let me fix it.” Caranthir says 

“I don’t think even you can salvage that.”

“I’ll do it!”

Caranthir pouts and Celegorm’s heart screams. He shuffles forward. Moryo doesn’t like hugs, but he can manage a nudge without complaint if he’s feeling suffienctly guilty.

Celegorm loves his brothers. They don’t call him strange or monsterous. They aren’t afraid of him. They complain about broken window panes but that’s okay. It’s annoying, he knows. Turko rests his chin ever so slightly on his shoulder and he smiles.

One day, it won’t be enough 

Sitting back sharp enough that even Caranthir turns to him confused Turko just smiles thinly and lies back down.

One day you will go too far and then you will be ours 

[wearejericho]

detectiveconnor​:

Oh, they were back on this again. Hooray.

Connor typically would have left. He was not wanted there, he did not make a point of being where he was not wanted (he did, in fact, have better things to do than sit around waiting for people to see him), and Markus wasn’t a danger to himself. 

But Markus, Connor thought, did not do well alone in general, and while time on his own might have given him an opportunity to collect his thoughts, he’d expressed twice before that he wanted to be on good terms with Connor.

The decision to sit down was made slowly. He very almost left. But Connor passed over the chair across from Markus’ desk and came around to sit (lean, mostly) on the edge of the desk on Markus’ side, unimpressed with artificial barriers, dismissive of the separation he had constructed into his office.

“Listen,” he started. His body language was open, one hand resting comfortable on his knee, the other being used to gesticulate: his LED was cycling but not aflicker, choosing words carefully but not at all panicked or rushing for them. “The first time you spoke to me, you told me my thinking was straightforward and implied I didn’t care about people’s deaths.” ’It isn’t that straightforward. I *do* care’. Connor had overlooked it, because Markus was grieving and upset and fresh from it, and the things people said while grieving were rarely ever things they’d say when their world hadn’t just been rattled. “You started therapy, and you were on track for a while, and then you weren’t. You snapped at Simon today.” A pattern, becoming a predictable one. Understandable, again. It had been a shitty year. Simon would not hold it against Markus, or at least, Connor doubted that he would. “The therapy you tried hasn’t been working. So choose one thing.” Simple. Direct. “Anything you could do today. You could apologise to Simon. Or take a break earlier, tomorrow.” Pick one. Connor would help him get on track, start there, pick one thing, today. (Even if that thing was fighting Connor, he’d at least have it in his head to pick one thing, for tomorrow. Markus didn’t seem to have any idea where to start.)

    markus initially kept his eyes forward, like a toddler pouting when being lectured. but he looks over eventually, maintains eye contact. it’s respectful, and respect was something markus normally cared about very much. he wants to interrupt — i never meant to imply that. but again, he keeps respect in mind. the words were perceived how they were perceived, there’s nothing that could be done about that now. 

    ❝ i’m sorry— i’m sorry. ❞ his breath hitched in his throat for just a moment. ❝ i don’t like... the person i’m turning into. carl told me that he didn’t even recognize me. that i was just so ANGRY. ❞ and he wasn’t wrong. markus was angry. constantly. and he wasn’t sure why. ❝ the therapy was helping. it was just... hard, so i stopped going. i thought about leaving here entirely. but i knew that also wasn’t the right thing to do. i don’t know. ❞ markus rubs at the creases in his forehead. he felt like shit. is this what a headache felt like? ❝ you’re right. i’ll talk to simon tomorrow. i was out of line. ❞