#if this doesn't bring us luck tonight i don't know what will

[jerswayman]

cause of death: jeremy swayman was given a puppy

[sweetbans29]

Child - PB

Pairing: Paige Bueckers x Reader

Summary: HC of Paige as Mom (based on THIS request)

Warnings: none that I can think of :)

Word Count: 1.6k

Sweetbans Masterlist

AN: If it is not obvious, it is set in the future. I am thinking mid-20s for her.

Paige would be both terrified and ecstatic when the two of you bring home your little one for the first time. I mean, the girl would be working around the house nonstop for the weeks leading up to your due date and made sure everything was safe for you and your little one.

"Paige?" You ask, sleep evident in your voice. When you woke up in the middle of the night to find that you were alone (and had to pee) you got up. After using the restroom, you began your search for your other half. You checked all the normal places she would usually be when she couldn't sleep but had no luck. "Baby?" You ask heading into the nursery to find Paige struggling with the crib. The second you lay eyes on her, you can see the frustration radiating off of her. Paige doesn't hear you waddle in and lets out a groan. She had been trying to figure out this one side of your daughters crib for about 45 minutes now. She jumps when she feels hands on her shoulders. "Baby, come back to bed," you say lightly. "Need to finish this," Paige puffs and you know it's not true. You begin to rub her shoulders. "Please," you say Paige keeps working on the crib. "Baby, come back to bed," you say no longer requesting but demanding. "Gotta finish," Paige says. You stand there for a second and look at Paige clearly making no progress. Normally this would bug you but being so tired, you really just want to her back in bed with you. "Why do you need to finish tonight?" You ask your wife. Paige's hands finally settle as her shoulders slump. She turns so she is facing you now, her head resting on your little girls bump. "Everything needs to be perfect for her," Paige whispers. Your hands come to rest on her head as you smooth her hair over. "It will be," you say. "But you know what won't be perfect? You, if you don't come back to bed with me." Paige kisses your bump then make a move to stand. It was her way of saying you are right without having to say a word. You kiss her lips softly as you grab her hand and lead her back to your shared bed. Once you are comfortable again with Paige next to you, you are finally content. "Everything will be perfect because she has you as her mom. You may not think it is perfect, but it will be because you are you," you say as sleep overtakes you again. Paige inches closer to you and you inch away. "Too hot," you mutter practically asleep. Paige lets out a little laugh because of course you would go to find her in the middle of the night and force her back to bed only to not cuddle her. But she couldn't be mad, she could never be mad at you.

Paige would never want to leave Mia's side. Paige was always more than willing to be the one to change Mia or grab her from her naps. The two of them had become the best of friends.

You and Paige are on the couch when Mia begins to cry. Paige immediately shoots up and goes over to Mia and picks her up. "Shhhhh," she says softly. "I got you baby, Mommy's got you." You watch as Paige consoles your 3-month old baby girl and you can't help but smile. Paige rocks Mia as she begins to settle. You don't know how Paige did it but Mia loves her. Paige has the ability to calm Mia down every time as she knows exactly what she wants. Paige comes to sit down next to you with Mia in her arms. Mia's eyes are wide open as she is just looking up at Paige. "She loves you so much," you say as you watch Mia watch Paige. Paige leans in to rub her nose to Mia's which causes Mia to blink and smile. "She loves me because she takes after her mom, who I happen to know loves me more than anyone else," Paige says and your smile widens. "I don't know about that," you say teasing your wife. Her head shoots up to look at you. "What?" She says offended that you didn't immediately say that she was the person you loved most. Your eyes never leave Mia and Paige knows. "Fine, I guess I am okay with sharing you with Mia," Paige says dramatically. It is now your turn to look at Paige. "Let's be real, if it came down to it we would both choose Mia," you say. Paige kisses Mia's head. "Mommy's right, you have all of our love, don't you?" Paige says to Mia. "And that is never going to change baby."

Once Mia a toddler, Paige already has a basketball in her hands. That only increases as Mia continues to grow. It is when Mia is three when Paige starts taking her onto the court during games.

"Mia!" Hailey says as she comes over and crouches down in front of the little girl. Mia waddles over to Hailey with a smile. Hailey has a basketball in her hands that she put down to see Mia - Mia being Paige's daughter ignores Hailey and goes for the basketball. "Well, I tried," Hailey says letting Mia carry the ball. Paige laughs. "That's my girl," Paige says as Mia brings Paige the basketball. Mia has a giant smile on her face as she throws the ball at Paige. It wasn't uncommon for for Paige and Mia to pass a basketball back and forth. It was actually a very common occurrence in your home and if anyone asked you, you wouldn't be able to tell them who loved it more, Paige or Mia. Paige bounces the ball back to Mia who catches it and starts to walk around. "She's already got some handle," Hailey says. "Of course she does, do you know who her mother is?" Paige says proudly. Hailey answers with your name. "Hey!" Paige says pushing her teammate. Hailey laughs and Paige picks Mia up. "You take after me don't you?" Paige asks Mia and Mia nods without really know whats going on. Mia points to the hoop and Paige knows exactly what that means. Paige sets Mia down and holds her hands out for Mia to pass her the ball. Mia throws the ball to Paige and she drains the three. Mia claps and walks back over to her asking to be picked up. Paige picks her up and walks over to you on the sideline. The second Mia sees you, she has her arms stretched out for you. As much as Mia loves Paige, she also loves you. "Hi baby girl," you say as you take Mia back from Paige. "Did you have fun with mommy?" Mia nods and yells 'yes'. "Did mommy have fun?" You ask Paige as Paige kisses the top of your head. "She always does," Paige says as her arm snakes around your waist. "Great game mommy," you say to Paige. "Ehh, could have been better," Paige says and you roll your eyes. Paige had a solid double-double and shot above her average. It was a good game for her. "Whatever you say," you say. "Mia, you want to come with Mommy to the pressor?" Paige asks, knowing she has no idea what that means but knows it will be with her. Mia nods and you pass your little one back to Paige. "She is all yours," you say and Paige leans over to give you a quick peck. "We will see you soon, wave bye to mommy," Paige says and Mia waves at you. You smile at your family and wave back.

As your daughter grows up, Paige makes it a point to always spend time with her especially with how crazy her schedule can be with playing in the W. It doesn't matter how tired Paige may be, when she has time at home, she is spending it with you and Mia. You don't know how she does it.

You look at the clock and see that you have been without Paige for quite some time. When Paige was home at night, she always insisted on doing Mia's bedtime routine. You get up and go look for your wife. You walk into Mia's room to find Mia sleeping in Paige's arms as she is in the same sleeping pose as Paige. You can't help but smile and snap a photo of the two before coming over and grabbing Mia out of Paige's arms. Paige stirs just as you have Mia completely out of her arms. "Mmm, what's happening?" Paige asks, voice thick with sleep. "Don't worry babe," you say as you put a sleeping Mia down carefully. Paige is now standing and rubbing her eyes. She reaches out her hand for you which you gladly take. Leading Paige to your bedroom, she plops on the bed and you crawl up next to her. Paige snakes her arm around your waist as her head finds your shoulder. You and Paige would always fight over who got to be the little spoon and she often won the battle. You rub her back as you feel her sigh. "How you doing momma?" You ask her. "Mmm tired,' she says. "You have been doing it all," you tell her. "Our superstar." "Just want to be Paige," she mutters as a giggle escapes your lips. You kiss her head and whisper an 'I love you'. Paige mutters it back to you as the two of you fall asleep the same way you did while in college.

AN: Paige as mom is something else - she would be the literal best mom. That is just my opinion - it is giving me Stewie mom vibes, let me now what you think. And as always, thank you for your love and support 💙

[juniperdugong]

Relationship Quirks 96s ver.

Aka habits I can see the boys doing in a relationship || 95s || 96s || 97s || Maknae line ||

Junhui

Avoids foods you don't like or are allergic to

You thought it was weird when after you had mentioned that you were allergic or didn't like a certain food that you would never encounter it when you were with Jun. Of course, you would always avoid it but you knew Jun to not be that picky, in fact, he's quite an adventurous eater. So it just struck you as odd.

That is until you overhear him on the phone with the restaurant you guys were having a date at later tonight asking about the ingredients used in certain dishes and if {insert food here} was used. When you talk to him about this he casually says that he just wants to make sure that you eat well and like what you eat. (THE SWEETEST BOY IN THE WORLD)

Little do you know that he's started to exclude those foods from his diet as well, especially if it's an allergy you have. If it's a food you don't like then he doesn't want you to avoid kissing him if he's eaten it. BUT IF IT'S AN ALLERGY, red alert red alert, he thinks you'll go into anaphylactic shock if he eats something you're allergic to and then he touches/kisses you.

If you're not by his side when he's making decisions then it feels like the balance of the universe is off. Could be halfway across the world from each other and dude is calling you at 3am to ask which magnet he should bring home as a souvenir.

Hoshi

Needs your input on almost every decision he makes

Ooh it's bad, like looking at your parents when the doctor asks what your age is type of bad. He will know exactly what he wants at a restaurant but as soon as the waiter comes he's looking at you like a sheep and you have to mouth what he said he wanted seconds ago as he repeats you blindly. Almost all his decisions must have you're input or else he doesn't know what to do. This might be annoying to some but he values what you have to say so much. And honestly, if you disagree with something he takes it into genuine consideration and thinks about it a lot before making the final call.

His mindset can be summed up like this, "If y/n doesn't think I'll like that pasta then I probably won't like it, they know me very well."

Dude is clingy but not in a physical way... just in the way that he follows you around like a cat that wants your attention but can't say it. He does it unconsciously and to be honest it takes a mutual friend or one of the boys to point it out for either of y'all to notice. Truly it feels like he has to stay within a 30ft. radius of you sometimes.

Wonwoo

Follows you everywhere

The reason this behavior even started was because he missed you so much after tours and arduous schedules that he just HAD to be near you but he never wanted to initiate physical contact. (Being near you is enough for him) It's gotten to the point though that he ASSUMES you're taking him everywhere with you. You're upset and need "space"? Good luck! You'll be in another room for max 5mins before he's in there sitting the farthest possible distance he can while keeping you in sight.

"I can't do this right now, Wonwoo." "Fine then." "I'm going to my mom's place for a while." *Magically has both your suitcases and bags packed* "When are we leaving?"

I know I know... it's unexpected but true! The thing that I don't think a ton of carats realize is that this man does not fear affection AT ALL. He just doesn't like it in public displays. So in the privacy of his studio or at either of your homes, he is clingy, 100%.

Woozi

Needs to feel your touch

Has a computer chair that is specifically for you to be next to him while he's in the studio. If you're in the same room as him or HELL even the same building and there are no cameras or minimal people and you're not next to him then what even is the point? Might as well tell him you hate him or something, at least that's how he treats it.

The crazy part is that he doesn't even ask you for affection! He'll just say things out loud and expect you to get the message or he'll say things directly towards you but won't look in your direction. His number one phrase is, "I miss you..." all while you're feet away from him on the couch in the studio. You can be sitting in your designated chair BUT YOU DON'T HAVE YOUR LEGS DRAPED OVER HIS???? Suddenly, you hear a constant loop of "Damn, I miss my partner sooooo much, right now.", like sir? They're right there?

A/N: I am clinically insane over the 96 line. ALSO EVERYONE SAY HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO WONWOO!!!! (Even though it's literally 10pm and his day is nearly over) I'll try to have the next 2 parts out sometime tmrw. Stay sweet lovelies!! Reblogs and comments are like power surges for my writing so they are much appreciated!

TAGLIST (open): @bemybabiibish

[slayfics]

If you don’t mind me dropping a request for Katsuki headcanons then here I am…

(I know I’m in a whole other famdom right now and I don’t even simp for Bakugo (he’s yours he’s yours, I got a dif man 😉) but I’m bored and this is just an idea)

So.. what if Bakugo was dating a y/n that was just as much of an idiot as Kaminari 😥

If you haven’t done this already -

Katsuki dating a silly reader.

700 words~

Katsuki pretends to be annoyed by your air headedness but actually finds it adorable. He feels responsible for watching out for you.

He is quick to tell off anyone who insults you.

He secretly loves that you get along well with his friends.

However, he is insecure about the way Kirishima and Kaminari can have you rolling in laughter effortlessly. He won't ever mention it but it's apparent by the pout he has any time you're laughing at Kaminari's newest joke.

He loves the way you can cut through his seriousness and bring whimsy to his life. He doesn't know what he'd do without you. Heck, probably never smile again.

He is quick to catch you with any mistakes you make, albeit he scolds you for it.

He is overly tough with you when you spar, but it's only because he wants you to be as strong as you can be to take out any villains you face.

Katsuki's friends are constantly blown away by the things you get him to agree to do. Shopping at a dumb mall? Fine, he'll hold your bags. Going to an amusement park with way too many screaming kids? "Fine- if you really want to go." Singing along to a cheesy ass song? Mmm maybe, don't press your luck too far...

You brought back your food and sat at the outside table of the sports bar rejoining the boys. Music played as different sports ball games played on the various screens outside.

"Tch- why'd you two choose this place anyway? None of us give a damn about these games," Katsuki said huffing and gesturing to the TVs.

"It's the only place that's in the middle of all our places," Denki explained, as you began to take bites of your food.

"Mmm I guess- the food is shit though," Katsuki continued to complain but took a bite of his food all the same.

The song changed to an easily recognizable tune: Total Eclipse of the Heart by Bonnie Tyler. Your and Eijiro's eyes immediately locked. The first verse synced up between the both of you as you sang.

Turn around~

Every now and then I get a little bit lonely

And you're never coming 'round

"No, stop." Katsuki huffed at you both beginning to sing. However, Katsuki's annoyance was only met with Denki joining in on the next verse.

Turn around~

Every now and then I get a little bit tired

Of listening to the sound of my tears

"Are you kidding me," Katsuki complained hiding his face in his hand. Which let Hanta know it was his turn to chime in. The four of you now had a choir.

Turn around~

Every now and then I get a little bit nervous

That the best of all the years have gone by

You three continued to sing increasing your enthusiasm with each lyric. Feeding off one another's enthusiasm.

Turn around, bright eyes~

Every now and then I fall apart

"Come on Bakugo, you know this song," Denki said nudging him during the instrumental part of the song.

"Hell no you're out of your mind!" Katsuki yelled. "Shut the hell up you four- you're making a scene."

"Awe~ Come on Kats~" You encouraged him. "You gotta do the next part with us!"

Katsuki eyed you irritated as Eijiro swayed back and forth in his seat matching Denki's dance movements.

You and the boys began singing back as the lyrics picked up again. This time, even louder and more enthusiastic than before.

And I need you now tonight

And I need you more than ever

And if you hold only hold me tight

We'll be holding on forever.

Then to all your surprise, Katsuki chimed into the last verse with you all.

I really need you tonight

Forever's gonna start tonight

Katsuki talked out, his version of singing, while you four sang as loud as ever.

"Let's go Kacchan," Denki laughed clapping his hands together in excitement.

"Awe so cute- you'd do anything they asked," Eijiro said with a giggle earning himself a bark from Katsuki.

"SHUT UP SHITTY HAIR!"

tags: @queenpiranhadon @unofficialmuilover @maddietries @fiannee @i-heart-carlisle @derangedmango @matchat3a @bakugouswaif @reneinii @zanarkandskylines @pastelbakugou @abadbitchblogs

[bearw-me]

Hiiii!!! Would you mind doing headcannons / a fanfic where Husk has a crush on the reader and one day they ask him if they could cover being a bartender for a while to give him a small break (and to chat with Angel Dust and Cherri Bomb bc they are sitting at the bar too) and he agrees, not thinking that they would actually be able to make any drink or anything, but they actually end up being a phenomenal bartender (yet has never told or shown anyone until now), and it make him flustered as he has an even bigger crush on them now (which he thought was literally impossible). Thank youuuu!!!! 💖💖💖 (Also I love ur work 💖✨)

I cant describe in words how your request made me feel lmao! and thank you so much! ( i could talk about this dynamic all day ♡♡♡

𝐀 𝐅𝐞𝐰 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐔𝐩 𝐌𝐲 𝐒𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐯𝐞

𐐒 includes : husk x gender neutral! reader, cherri bomb, angel dust 𐐒 cw : drinking/mentions of drinking, swearing, fluff, mutual pining, reader and husk are flirting so hard smh 𐐒 summary : Husk could use a break from the bar, so you offer to take up the job for the rest of the night! 𐐒 word count : 1.7 k 𐐒 note : ah, husk + his drinks (guys! husk! with a bartender! is!) my heart is liquid now

The night sure was lively now that Angel Dust and Cherri Bomb came (literally) crashing through the front door.

You smiled, resting your head in your hands as you watched the two from the end of the bar. "Those two must be a handful for you," you teased, letting your eyes flit over to the grumpy old cat you adored.

He managed a smile, glancing over at the two who were downing shots like tomorrow didn't exist. "Yes they are," he mumbled.

"So why'd you come over here Whiskers? You know I'm still working on my drink."

"You know I gotta keep my customer's satisfied," his voice teased back- just as smooth as the whiskey he poured- how charming, you thought. "Can't leave you here all by yourself."

You nodded, feeling a blush creep over the tips of your ears and nose.

Although, you couldn't help but notice. . .

Husk, the charming gambling cat who bartended for the hotel, a cat you could've sworn- or hoped- wanted your attention most nights. . . stared at the pair across the bars edge with a tired eye.

You quietly followed his gaze, humming as you pondered the next move.

"Why don't you pour yourself a drink? On me," you slid your card over the polished wood, only to be stopped as soon as it hit the edge of the bar. Husk's fingers pushing gently against yours.

"It's bad luck for a bartender to drink on the job."

"Is that so? Sounds like superstition," you teased, sadly tucking the card into your pocket.

Doesn't usually stop him from doing it, you moped.

"Hey baby! You can buy me a drink, no strings of course!" Angel called over to you, bringing shameless attention to his chest and biting his lip.

The bar laughed with him, spirits deliciously high tonight now that the couple had joined.

You were glad for the change of pace, "You know what?" You pulled the card out again, raising three fingers so that Husk knew how much to pour "I will buy you that drink Angel."

Cherri and Angel celebrated by downing a shot each, the young overlord herself yelling into the air with glee at the score.

Your gaze lingered over to the two, the sounds of vodka and juice being poured next to you. "Husk?" you asked, not really turning to look at him.

"What's on your mind?"

You waited until the sounds of pouring stopped, little freckles of juice sticking to your hand. . . then you turned to him, a little unsure in what you were asking "This drinks for you."

With a gentle hand, you tried to stop him from sliding it over to you, and responded just as fast as his denial "Let me run the bar for the rest of the night!"

His confusion morphed into the classic doubtful Husk you knew: always keeping his guard up.

"Oh really," he rasped, leaning over the bar to hover right next to your face.

Maybe he was trying to intimidate you, or try to see through you. . . but you tried not to flinch at the challenge, watching his dark eyes narrow "And what do you get out of this?"

You shrugged, a dumb smile popping onto your lips "Time to sober up? How hard could it be?" you purred, relishing in the fact that Husk had recoiled from you.

Sitting across the bar, head cradled in your hands, smirking at him.

He sighed, letting his eyes roll "Alright, fine but-"

Before his sentence even finished, you were right next to him at the back of the bar, staring with a pep in your step at all of the liquors, juices, and garnishes he actually had back here.

"Hey I didn't say you could-"

"Sorry Husk," you pushed him out of the area, feeling a little unwelcome or foreign on this side of the bar.

I mean, you both did, but it wasn't an entirely bad feeling-yet.

"Heyy, the old kitty came to play with us!" Cherri teased, watching as Husk awkwardly took a seat next to the two.

"Finally!" Angel groaned, throwing an arm over Husk and pulling him into the fun.

"On second thought, I don't think this was a good idea," Husk unfurled himself from Angel's grasp.

"Come on Husk, you deserve a break!" Angel insisted.

"Yes! Here are the shots!" You laid the three previously poured shots onto the countertop, eagerly watching as Cherri and Angel picked theirs up, waiting for Husk to join them.

The old cat eyed the shot, the red liquid glimmering quite nicely against the bars wood-top, and back the the pair of smiling faces that awaited him "Fuck it, I could use a drink."

When he smiled, you felt it like your own, proudly watching as the unlikely trio threw the drinks back with a hiss.

"So, what'll it be guys?"

Cherri sighed, slinking over the bar with a devilish grin "Hate 'ta hound ya on your first day, but what can you make?"

You shrugged, the confidence of being behind the bar (and the previous drink you had) voiding any concerns or anxieties you would've had. "What kind of drinks were you thinking?"

"More fucking shots bitch!"

You smiled "Dirty hookers, jagerbombs, lemon drop shots. . . maybe a kamikaze?"

"Oh~" Cherri put a hand on her chest, feigning flattery, "Fucking all of 'em! And throw in a few snake bites for me!"

"Just the dirty hookers for me, doll."

The pair of deviants giggled, marveling at the bars newest bartender and talking to each other whilst you familiarized yourself with Husks' bar.

He keeps it well stocked, you thought. Speaking of which. . .

As you rummaged around for the appropriate bottles, you could feel a familiar burning at the back of your neck.

Husk was staring at you.

You blushed, trying not to make eye contact by busying yourself with this new found task. "What's with the face, Whiskers?"

You heard him grunt, "What was that?"

"What was what?"

"You an alcoholic or something?" he clarified, the sound of him running his empty shot glass against the table lying underneath Cherri and Angel's conversation.

You hummed, not really answering until you had everything set on the bar. Five shot glasses on either side, you took the two bottles in hand flipping them upside down with a smile.

The three watched with amusement as you flipped one bottle high up, counting in your head the number of ounces you were pouring with the other while catching the bottle just in time.

Husks stomach was doing flips, watching on with a mix of anxiety that you'd break something (or god forbid hurt yourself) and the fact that you were actually. . . laughing.

The alcohol in your hands, whiskey, rum, vodka- anything- flying between your hands with the debonaire smile on your face.

Every movement, every flip, every spin. It all looked-

Husk caught himself, throwing his gaze to the side and moping. Trying hard not to think about anything.

"Here you go!" You slid the shots over to the pair, sure that it'd keep them busy for a while. . . or at least a few minutes.

"So what'll it be, boss?" You leaned over the counter, solely focused on him now, with that smug smile on your face. . . or maybe you were still a little tipsy.

"Boss?"

"Sure," you shrugged "Your gonna pay me after right?" You laughed when his face dropped, assuring him it was a joke. "Come on Husk, its time for you to be served for once, what kind of drink do you want?"

He seemed to freeze, the little pieces of fur on the back of his neck standing up like he was full of static. "Anything, I just need a drink," he said honestly.

Back to the same tired Husk, you smiled, chest filled with warmth. He looked, or he seemed. . . well you didn't actually know. Did he like that you were behind the bar?

You grabbed him a bottle of beer, easily wrenching the bottle cap off with the metal opener.

Husk took it into his hands faster than you could set it on the bar, tipping the bottle back so far that the dark green glass shone in the hotels light.

"I guessed you really could've used that drink," you sighed, feeling a little guilty for not doing him this favor sooner.

"Chug! Chug! Chug!" Angel and Cherri caught on as Husk nursed his bottle to almost empty.

You smiled, albeit a little bittersweetly, and turned back to the bar in order to make him something you figured he'd like to try.

With new found 'confidence', Husk blearily eyed your back, a sinking, fluttery feeling growing in the pit of his stomach. Watching you clean the glasses, something he did all the time, it looked. . . magnificent when you did it.

The night continued without a hitch.

You watched from behind the bar as the three laughed. Yes, Husk was laughing, bottle in hand and letting Angel Dust push him around playfully, daring the two of them to come gamble with him sometime.

It filled your heart completely, he looked really good with a smile on his face. . . And every now and then you'd catch him staring at you, almost as if he were proud.

To be fair, the thought almost made you fumble a cocktail you were making for Angel Dust.

"You know, your pretty good at this," he complimented you, in that glorious drunken heaven he was in. The quiet purrs coming from him was enough to convince you of that.

"Here," you offered, sliding a small silver tray with two shots and limes on it his way "on me."

He chuckled, a deep rumbling sound as fine as the drinks he served you. "No, I couldn't drink two-"

"This one's for me," you pointed, taking the slim glass between your fingers.

"Drinking on the job is bad luck," he slurred.

"Are you kidding me? This is the best luck I've ever had! Come on," you insisted.

Husk's face, while already burning from the alcohol, was flush with nerves, a little smile on his face from the feeling it gave him. "Thanks."

[bigfan-fanfic]

Star Shower (Batdad Pokemon Fanfic)

Can you do a fic where the batboys seeing batdad do a pokemon contest performance for the first time in real life? Batdad used to be a top pokemon coordinator and sorta quietly stopped being a coordinator because of Bruce disappearing and the whole family of vigilantes and having to take care Wanye Enterprise. Now that the batboys are adults and (mostly) stop vigilante-ing, batdad decided to re-debut.

Bruce, of course, leads the family down the red carpet.

He's so very proud of his husband. He has always felt a little guilty about the fact that you had to take an early retirement from your Coordinator career to run Wayne Enterprises and watch over the family after he came back.

But now you're back in full form, and the press is on fire, calling it "The Return of the King" and other such dramatic claims.

You were known for the powerful combination of your Lucario and Gardevoir - a glorious display of simple martial prowess combined with psychic illusions and effects.

But there's been a surprising development.

Instead of Lucario, you've registered with Gardevoir and Cubone.

The very same Cubone you raised from an egg.

People are intrigued, knowing you're bringing something completely new, but totally unable to keep from speculating.

"B, did you ever go to one of Pops' shows?" Dick asks. He, Bruce, Tim, and Barbara head down the carpet - Jason and Damian and the others have sought out a more discreet entrance.

"I did, once, before I left for training. It was... beautiful. He actually pulled me onstage and kissed me in public for the first time, after the performance. Honestly, I can't recall much about that show, but I remember the cologne he wore that night." Bruce sighs happily.

Tim rolls his eyes. "Some help you are. I still don't know what we're going to see tonight."

"I sent you a whole file of Contest performances last month to get you up to speed!" Barbara protests. "Do you... mute the group chat?"

"It's just not as fun now that it's... just a normal family chat."

Dick laughs. "I don't think we're that normal, Timmy."

They do a few short sound bites for the press, making it clear that tonight they are here for you. And backstage, Jason and Damian have come to give you good luck hugs.

"Awwww, my baby boys." You chuckle.

"Papa, are you sure you'll be alright that Brown and Cain and the Rows and Thomas won't-"

"Don't remind him of that!" Jason growls. "He doesn't need-"

"It'll be fine. Alfred's watching them all, and I don't blame them for avoiding the press. It doesn't mean they aren't with me." You smile. "Plus, I know Tim will be recording it for them."

Jason hugs you. "Go get em, Dad."

You smile softly, then look down to Damian. "Dami? You alright?"

Damian gives you a little shaky smile. "I suppose I'm just... excited, is all. To see you perform."

"Me too, kiddo. Go find your seats, okay? I want you to make sure you stick by your dad. You know he gets anxious when you're all out in public."

As they head back, you don the classic hat and tailored suit you were known for as a young Coordinator, adjusted and updated for the man you are now.

And you walk out on stage to thunderous applause from the audience - the loudest cheers from your family. The other Coordinators flourish on their entrance, throwing their Pokeballs into the air wildly, but you simply open your hands and let them exit. A little shy to debut, Cubone tries to hide behind you, but Gardevoir lifts the little thing up with psychic power into your arms for a quick cuddle, making the audience "awwww."

Eventually the show continues, each Coordinator doing their set, leaving you for last. Which definitely sets them on edge, you can tell.

But you're here because you wanna show the world that you didn't lose yourself all those years ago.

You start out cross-legged on the stage, sitting down. Cubone cuddles in your lap before tumbling out, seemingly eager to show you something.

The audience gives a little chuckle at the orchestrated adorable tumble.

Cubone withdraws a large bone and begins to slowly swing it around, twirling it like a baton. And when it tosses the bone into the air, it... lifts.

And then another, and another. Seven bones float in a large oval, continuing to revolve faster and faster as they spin across the stage.

The spotlight darkens, as light fractures behind you both - the stage becoming a prismatic field of light. Gardevoir appears, floating in the middle of the circle of spinning bones.

Cubone gives an excited cry and hurls a Bonemerang and one by one the bones break open in bursts of glitter powder, which swirl and swirl like a nebula forming into a planetary ring.

Gardevoir twirls in midair, the center of the nebula, and sends the shining rainbow powder running down to the stage-

-only for Cubone to use Icy Wind to freeze the powder in midair, making a beautiful mix of rainbow and snow, in an intricate swirl as Gardevoir manipulates the crystal formation.

As a grand finale, Gardevoir levitates Cubone into the center of a globe formed of ice and glitter, only for it to use Earth Power, bursting out in green and gold light, dissolving the ice and sending the glitter drifting like stardust across the audience.

There's a moment of stunned silence. And then in a great wave, the audience stands, and as they applaud, you see your husband practically glowing with pride and awe.

Of course, you win the Contest, and you hold your Cubone close in reward. The press calls it the greatest Contest Comeback of all time, but you're too busy watching your family gently praise your shy little Cubone and elegant Gardevoir.

And your husband never leaves your side the rest of the night.

[nogenderbee]

Could I request Diluc, Kaeya, Childe and Ayato with an s/o who has amazing good fortune and luck?

Sure! I did these in oneshot format because I thought it'll be a bit more interesting ^^ Well hope you like it dear anon!

♡˗ˏ✎*ೃ˚ 𝕃𝕦𝕔𝕜𝕪 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕞 ₊˚ˑ༄

*ੈ✩‧₊˚ Diluc, Kaeya, Childe, Ayato x lucky!reader

*ੈ✩‧₊˚ @bleachtheidiot

You visited Diluc in Angel's Share to classically ramble about your day and adventures. He seemed to expect you by now before as soon as you say down, your favorite juice was right under your nose and when you looked at your partner, you noticed his eyes softening. It was like alternative of a smile since he can't let other read: Venti, Kaeya or Rosaria see him like that and risk getting teased to death.

But going back to current time... there was almost no one else close to bar so it was basically just the two of you.

"So how was it? I heard you accepted one of more dangerous missions today."

He gave you the strict look and you knew just by that that he was worried for the whole day even if he didn't wanted to admit it!

"Yeah, but it was easy! My luck never disappoints me~"

"That's great and I don't wish it to be otherwise but you should stop relying on it so much. It's just luck. What it won't be on your side one time?"

"Oh stop worrying so much! I'm all safe and sound!"

"And I couldn't be more glad for that..."

He was gently caressing your hand by now. It may seem like normal gesture but you could see he's being a bit mean because he cares about you. Maybe next time you should take some extra stuff just to make him less stressed text time?

﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌

You and Kaeya were just hanging around on Mondstadt's festival. There was game based on luck so of course he encouraged you to try it! And naturally, you win every single one of them~ Eventually it ended with hosts stopping you from playing because you'd win all prizes in this tempo...

"See? I told you it's worth checking out!"

"Did you had something to do with it again?"

"What are you assuming me of? But just maybe I made a bet with host that you won't loose a single round! I'm treating you to dinner tonight, my dear~"

You should've expected it honestly... he will use every opportunity to show how amazing luck his partner has after all. But you can't really complain since he's treating you to dinner!

But he doesn't do it just to use you or so, it's more like showing everyone your amazing talent. And you can see it by the way he always compliments you before even suggesting bets or anything like that.

"Another bet? Really?"

"Well yes but you know it's not me who suggested them... they were just a bit too confident that you can't have those sort or luck."

﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌

Childe brings you everywhere with him. And it's even worse if you know about him being part of the Fatui... he'll always bring you to negotiations, competitions, fights and so on.

Since that one time when you both were just shopping in Liyue Harbor and he won over 3 negatiations with you on his side, he literally started calling you "his lucky charm".

That's how you ended up watching him fight on the sides, like today. It doesn't matter if it'll be whole boss or few slimes, he'd always tell you to give him some of your luck with that grin on his face.

And when he comes back after his win, he'll be a bit flirty, saying how it's all thanks to your luck even tho you both know very well it's thanks to his fighting skills.

"Thanks for cheering for me there! I couldn't have done this without your help~"

"C'mon... these slimes were nothing for you... you said it yourself plenty of time."

"But it could've been your luck this time! You won't mind accompanying me for some time, right?"

"Aren't you just trying to show off by now?"

He definitely does try to only impress you... and you're sure of it by the way he sends you that little grin of his symbolizing he's planning something.

﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌

You came to Ayato rambling about how lucky you got with winning a prize on some festival. He was genuinely happy to see you smile like that and the way you were so sure it's because you're lucky person is making him adore you even more.

"I guess I just have incredible luck! No one won this one before me and it's the one I liked the most anyway!"

"Of course. I'm so proud of you, my love."

It's not immidietly noticible but he doesn't really believe in so called "luck". He's sure it's a simple coincidence but that sparkle in your eyes just makes him go with your thoughts to not accidentally ruin this day for you.

"Well then, why won't we celebrate your another lucky day by going out for dinner?"

"Well I can't say no to that!"

He softly smiled at your reaction. He liked to spoil you in the first place but he adores how childish you could be sometimes.

He'd always listen to you rambling about your newest achievements and how it's all thanks to your luck with a smile. He's saying that he's proud of you and acts as if he's sure that's how it is, but in reality he thinks it was just coincidence. As much as he doesn't want you to ALWAYS rely on your luck, he can't just tell you what he thinks in the face, you're simply too pure in his eyes.

﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌

[honeybeezgobzzzzz]

𓅨 Love in the Dark: Chapter Two

Love in the Dark: You discover an intense connection with an enigmatic dream lover, yearning for a love beyond physical appearances. As your encounters blur the lines between the waking world and the Dreaming, your grapple with the complexities of desire, friendship, and mortality. Can you truly love in the dark?

Warnings: Hot Make Out.

To Note: Morpheus/Dream x NAMEDFem!Reader.

Word Count: ~2.5k

Previous | Masterlist | Next

You don't always spend your dreams within his arms. You know he is busy with his tasks in the Dreaming and often spent your free time with the denizens of the realm. It was ridiculous to think your free time consists of you not having sex. But alas, you can't fuck away your real life relationship woes with a dream or nightmare you've never actually seen. Even if he was the Adonis of your dreams.

Dreams. Hah! You snicker at yourself because was your Dream Lover anything but the Adonis of your dreams? Perhaps an Adonis with a personality, one you have come to adore and cherish. Yes, your Dream Lover is your best friend, closest confidant, and, well, your dream lover. And to think you had only wanted a friend to talk to! That effort has failed rather spectacularly.

"Kora!" At the call of your name, you look up to see Fēlix, the dream of luck and happiness, and your best friend during the night. The dream resembles a baby faced boy with gentle blue eyes and luscious blond hair you were jealous of the softness. That's were the humanness stops. While he has pale skin, all throughout his body glimmers gold, like someone has pat him down with gold leaf and it has stuck, firmly. Then there's the massive cardinal compass smack dab in the center of his chest that glows with golden ethereal light. It doesn't help that Fēlix only wore trousers and his fancy robe which never fully covers his chest.

Your dream best friend draws attention everywhere he goes both for his inhumanely beautiful looks and literally glowing warmth. Have you mentioned that his hair also seems to float around like it doesn't understand the concept of gravity? It is entirely unfair that your Dream Lover and your dream best friend are both cruelly beautiful and you are just you.

"Hey Fē," you greet, looking up from the bin of peaches you had been absentmindedly thinking over. You have a partially eaten one in your hand and the juices have long since ran down your palm to your wrist. Nothing that couldn't be licked clean later.

Fēlix beams, his smile bright enough to chase away any lingering shadows that occasionally haunt you for attention. Some nightmares were like needy puppies. "I thought you'd be with him tonight," he says, the compass on his chest glowing a bit brighter.

You shrug, trying to appear nonchalant. "He's busy, I guess. Not every night is about us. Also, you don't need every detail of my night time sex life."

Fēlix's laughter rings out, melodic and infectious. "But that's why I'm friends with you! To get all the juicy moments of your mysterious tryst with whomever has captured your heart." You snort at him and he chuckles before continuing, "still the realist, I see."

"Someone has to be," you reply, a smirk tugging at your lips. You pluck a peach from the bin and toss it to him. He catches it effortlessly, his movements as fluid as a ballerina. He is perfect at everything and if you weren't acutely aware that he was made to be perfect, you would be raging with jealousy.

"Have you ever wondered what he looks like?" Fēlix asks, biting into the peach with relish. His head tilts and tuffs of blond hair float with the motion.

"Every night," you admit. "But it's part of our deal."

"Strange deal," he muses, wiping juice from his chin. "To love someone without ever seeing them."

You think about your dream lover's voice, how it wraps around you like velvet in the dark. Just like how his touch brings you such ecstasy. "Love doesn't need eyes," you say softly. "And this way vanity doesn't cloud our judgment.”

"Vanity doesn't cloud your judgement," Fēlix corrects you with smirk. "Your dream lover, however, is completely smitten."

"I know what I look like, Fē, he didn't make a vain choice." You say with a snort. Slowly moving away from the peaches and towards the fountain at the center of the market. You take a seat. "it's the only thing that brings me true happiness because in the waking world there is so much toxic vanity, you can never truly know who you are dating until they show their true colors."

Fēlix nods, thoughtful. "True enough. But curiosity is a powerful thing."

"I have my moments," you admit with a wry smile. "that's why you're friends with me, remember?"

"Oh no, I'm just here for the retelling of your spicy, passionate sex life." He chuckles in fake exaggeration before he sits beside you on the edge of the fountain. The water sparkles under the dream sky, casting shimmering reflections on both of you. "How's real life treating you?" he asks, voice falling gentle once more.

"Real life's... real," you say with a sigh. "Nothing magical about it."

"Then let's make this moment count," he suggests, holding up his half-eaten peach like a toast.

You touch your own peach against his and take a bite, savoring the sweetness that seems more intense here in the Dreaming.

As you savor the last bits of the peach's sweetness, Fēlix suddenly glances over his shoulder, his golden compass glowing a bit brighter. "Duty calls," he says, standing up with a reluctant sigh. "Dreamers need their luck."

"Of course," you say, watching him float away with a wave. His presence always feels like sunshine, even in the Dreaming's twilight. Looking down at your eaten peach, you watch in satisfaction as the pit dissolves in your fingers and golden sand floats up, only to disappear. Oh how you loved the magic of this realm!

You wander through the market, letting the surreal scenery of the Dreaming envelop you. Stalls burst with colors you can't name and scents that tug at long-forgotten memories. It never ceases to amaze you how vibrant and alive this place is. You pass by a quaint bed and breakfast nestled between two towering dreamscapes. The sign reads "The Slumbering Sanctuary." It's a cozy, ivy-covered building that radiates warmth. You hear commotion inside and decide to peek in.

"Help! Someone, please!"

You step inside to find a flurry of activity. Dreams shaped like fluttering sheets of parchment dart around, their faces etched with worry as they fret to and fro. You haven't seen such panicked dreams in ages.

"What's going on?" you ask one of them, who looks particularly harried.

"Oh, it's a disaster!" the dream exclaims, nearly colliding with you as it flits by, it's sheet billowing and wafting a pleasant scent of detergent. Freshly showered it seems. "We have a large number of guests arriving soon—more than we've ever had! And we're terribly understaffed because of the recent surge in mortal dreams."

You can see the chaos: beds unmade, tables unset, and dream dust settling on everything. The master of the realm had been gone for so long that the workload and bookings had slowed down to the point of no business. Now that the realm is thriving once more, the dreams look frazzled and overworked.

"Is there anything I can do to help?" you offer.

The flustered sheet pauses for a moment, considering your words. Then the edges of it's sheet begins to flap excitedly. "That would be wonderful! Could you help us prepare the rooms? We're so behind schedule."

"Of course," you say, rolling up your sleeves—well, metaphorically speaking since you're in the Dreaming and the clothes you wear have no sleeves. "Just point and I'll take care of it."

You dive into the whirlwind of activity, your hands busy smoothing bedspreads and fluffing pillows. The sheets whisper against your skin as you tuck them in, and the dream dust glows faintly in the soft light filtering through the windows.

"Thank you, thank you," one of the parchment-like dreams flutters around you, clearly relieved. "The guests will be here any moment."

"No problem," you reply, straightening up and surveying your work with satisfaction. "Just happy to help."

You move to the next room, your thoughts wandering to your dream lover. You wonder where he is tonight, what duties might be keeping him away from you. As you finish adjusting the final pillow, a soft breeze rustles through the room, carrying with it a familiar scent.

Before you can turn around, strong arms wrap around your waist, pulling you into the linen closet adjacent to the room. The door clicks shut behind you, plunging you into darkness.

"You greeted everyone but me, my love," his voice purrs in your ear, a low vibration that sends shivers down your spine.

"Busy night," you manage to say in a pathetic excuse, heart racing as his hands slide up your arms.

His touch sends electric currents through your skin, spreading need to every corner. "Not too busy for you," he murmurs, his voice a deep, resonant hum that vibrates against your ear. "Since you so thoughtfully volunteered yourself.”

You shiver as his hands glide from your arms to your wrists, capturing them gently but firmly. He raises one of your hands to his lips, and you can feel the warmth of his breath against your skin. His lips part slightly, and you gasp when his tongue flicks out, tracing the line of dried peach juice from your wrist.

The sensation is intoxicating. His tongue is soft but insistent, each stroke sending ripples of pleasure through you. He moves slowly, savoring every taste, as if the juice were a rare nectar. Your knees weaken as he works his way up from your wrist to the tips of your fingers.

When he reaches your fingertips, he takes each one into his mouth, sucking gently before releasing them with a soft pop. "You taste divine," he whispers against your skin, the words vibrating through you like a caress.

Your breath hitches as he moves to your other wrist, repeating the ritual with the same deliberate slowness. The darkness of the linen closet amplifies every touch, every sensation. His tongue dances along your skin, tracing patterns that make you dizzy with desire.

You close your eyes and let yourself sink into the feeling. His hands continue to roam over your body, exploring every curve and contour with a familiarity that makes you feel both vulnerable and cherished.

When he finally releases your wrists, you're trembling. You can feel his breath against your neck now, warm and inviting. "I missed you," he says softly, and there's an edge to his voice that makes your pulse quicken even more. His words were so weak, vulnerable even, yet filled with longing.

You open your mouth to respond but find that words have abandoned you. Instead, you reach out in the darkness, finding his face by touch alone. Your fingers trace the sharp lines of his jaw, the softness of his lips.

He captures one of your hands again, bringing it to his mouth to kiss each fingertip tenderly. "Let's not waste any more time," he murmurs against your skin.

His hands slide under your shirt, the heat of his palms igniting a fire on your skin. Each touch is deliberate, a slow exploration that leaves you breathless. He pulls you closer, his body pressing against yours in the confined space of the linen closet. The scent of him surrounds you, a heady mix of earth and something darker, more primal.

His lips find your neck, and you tilt your head back to give him better access. He kisses a path from your collarbone to the sensitive spot just below your ear, his tongue flicking out to taste you. You shudder, fingers gripping his shoulders for support as he continues his assault on your senses.

You feel his breath hot against your skin as he murmurs your name, the sound of it dripping like ecstasy. His hands move higher, fingers grazing the edge of your bra before slipping beneath it. You arch into his touch, craving more of the electric connection between you.

He captures your lips in a searing kiss, his mouth moving against yours with an urgency that leaves you dizzy. His tongue explores your mouth, tasting and teasing until you're gasping for breath. You respond with equal fervor, hands tangling in his hair as you pull him closer.

His hands continue their journey beneath your clothing, tracing patterns on your skin that make you ache with need. When he finally cups your breasts, you moan into his mouth, the sound swallowed by his kiss. His thumbs circle your nipples through the fabric, sending jolts of pleasure through you.

You can feel his desire pressing against you, hard and insistent. It mirrors your own longing, a need that has been building with every touch, every kiss. You break away from his mouth just long enough to catch your breath before diving back in, kissing him with a hunger that surprises even you.

You melt into his kiss, every nerve in your body electrified by his touch. His hands continue to explore, mapping out the contours of your body with a reverence that makes your heart ache. You lose yourself in the sensation, in the heat and darkness and the overwhelming need that pulses between you.

Time loses meaning in the Dreaming, each moment stretching out like a ribbon of desire. His kisses become more urgent, more insistent, and you respond with equal fervor. Your fingers dig into his shoulders as you pull him closer, needing to feel every inch of him against you.

But all too soon, the edges of your reality start to blur. You can feel the pull of the waking world, like a distant tug at the back of your mind. You break away from his mouth with a gasp, your forehead resting against his as you struggle to catch your breath.

"I don't want to wake up," you whisper, your voice tinged with desperation. "I want to stay here with you."

His hands cup your face, thumbs brushing away the tears that have begun to fall. "You have to wake up, Kora," he says softly, his voice filled with a sorrow that mirrors your own. "You are mortal. You have a life to live in the waking world."

You shake your head, pressing closer to him as if that could somehow anchor you here in the Dreaming. "But I'm only truly happy here," you confess. "The waking world is so... empty without you."

He kisses your forehead, a tender gesture that sends a fresh wave of longing through you. "I know," he murmurs against your skin. "But you have responsibilities there. People who care about you."

You close your eyes, trying to hold onto this moment for just a little longer. The scent of him surrounds you, grounding you even as reality begins to intrude. "I wish I could stay," you say softly.

"So do I," he replies, his voice heavy with regret. "But we will always have our nights together."

The room around you starts to dissolve, the dreamscape fading into the harsh light of morning. You cling to him for one last moment, memorizing the feel of his arms around you.

"I'll be waiting for you," he whispers as the world around you shifts and changes.

And then you're awake, lying in your bed with the morning light streaming through the window. The familiar ache of longing settles in your chest as reality crashes down around you.

Another day in the waking world begins, but all you can think about is returning to him tonight.

Date Published: 9/20/24

Last Edit: 9/20/24

Previous | Masterlist | Next

[annaphoenix1994]

Letting Go

Previous Chapter - Masterlist - Next Chapter

»»-------¤-------««

"I don't know how I'm going to ask him," Simon sighed, rubbing the back of his neck as he sat across from Eva at one of the restaurants she had chosen. "I don't know what to say or how to say it." 

"You have to be brave about it, honey." Eva assured him. 

He sighed, "I know, but I don't even know how to bring it up." 

"Well, I'm sure you two have a lot in common with serving your country," Eva hinted. "The pair of you enjoy bourbon. Perhaps you can engage in a simple conversation and bring it up as you talk?" 

"That's probably my best bet," He chuckled. "The bourbon will take the edge off." 

"Now all you have to worry about is keeping it from Kiera." She giggled.

"And worrying about him giving me permission." 

"I don't think you'll have anything to worry about, Simon." 

"I hope so." He sighed, pulling out his phone to check on Kiera, haven't hearing from her since she went into town earlier - the few hours in between biting at him as he worried about how she was feeling. 

He glanced at Eva before dialing Kiera's number, asking with his eyes if it was okay as he didn't want to appear to be rude by being on his phone while at the table, Simon only waiting to pull his phone from his pocket after they were done eating and waiting for the check. Eva nodded in approval as well as giving him a scoff as if to tell him that he didn't have to ask to check in on her daughter. 

The phone rang roughly four times before Kiera answered. "Hello?" 

"Hey, love. How're you feeling?" He asked, a slight smirk appearing on his face at the sound of her voice. 

"Alright, I guess," She sighed. "I got sick twice since I've been here and still haven't been able to eat my sandwich." 

He frowned at the thought, "Don't force yourself to eat. You don't want to make it worse."

"I know, but at the same time I feel so hungry. My back has been aching and my boobs hurt."

He wanted to mention so badly about the source of her complaints, knowing that he was going to give Kiera the chance to tell her own mother that she was expecting. He didn't want to ruin that moment for her. "I'll give you a massage when you get home." 

"I should be home in an hour or so. That is, if Laswell talks me into getting my nails done while we're out." She giggled. 

"Didn't think Laswell was the manicure type." He chuckled. 

"Me either, but having my nails done might make me feel pretty at least." 

"You should feel pretty anyway." 

She blushed at his words from the other end of the phone, smiling down at her lap, "Well, I think I'll take Laswell up on her offer. What color should I get?" 

"Blue." 

"For a boy, huh?" She giggled. "Maybe I'll get pink - it'll bring good luck to have a little girl." 

"Perhaps." He chuckled, withdrawing to continue the conversation about the gender of the baby to keep Eva's suspicion of her being pregnant invisible. 

"What're you up to?" 

"Nothing major. Just your mother kidnapped me for the day for bonding time." He teased. 

"He agreed willingly, sweetheart. Don't let him lie to you!" Eva giggled from the other side of the table. 

"Uh huh. Well, I'm glad you two are getting some time together. I always feel like mom is left out because she doesn't like being around horses and cattle." 

"That makes two of us." He teased.

"What do you want for dinner tonight? I can pick up something on the way home-"

"No need, love. I've got dinner covered. You go and get your nails done. I know you've been talking about it for a while."

"I have," She chuckled. "I just haven't had the time." 

"Well, now you do. Be careful on the way home. The roads still look slick." 

"I will, babe." 

"Good. I'll see you later, yeah?" 

"You know I won't want to miss out on this said massage you offered," She giggled. "I love you." 

"I love you too. See you soon." 

»»-------¤-------««

Simon and Eva returned to the ranch, Eva parking her SUV just outside of the lodge as Simon exited the vehicle, walking around the front to open the driver's door for Kiera's mother, the bag containing the engagement ring in his free hand. "Where should I hide this?" 

"Well, you don't want to risk putting it in her house knowing she may accidentally find it," Eva sighed. "If you want, you can keep it here and before you two leave for England, we'll figure out how to hide it in your bag." 

"Perfect. I was thinking about hiding it in my toiletry bag. I don't think she'll think to look somewhere I keep my toothbrush and razor." He chuckled. 

"Probably not. I'll keep it in the safe in Bud's office. She never goes in the safe when she has her own guns." 

"Now just the hard part," Simon huffed, following her into the lodge. "Asking the only man I'm nervous around." 

"No need to be nervous, Simon. When we pulled in, I saw his truck and trailer down at the barn. He'll be up here soon to freshen up for dinner." 

"Christ," He sighed. "I'll end up blurting it out, Madame-"

"You can call me Eva, honey. After all, if I'm going to be your mother-in-law, you'll have to call me by my first name anyway," She smiled. "Want me to make you a glass of sweet tea?" 

Bloody rubbish shit, he scoffed to himself at the thought, not wanting to make himself drink it again, but he couldn't refuse her mother's offer, finding it disrespectful if he didn't accept. "Sure." 

Simon joined her in the lounge area, sitting on the same couch with April the Corgi at his side as he and Eva mused about how he was going to propose to Kiera, chuckling at how he watched Eva continue to fondle through the decorative towels that she left on the coffee table, contemplating on which ones she wanted to decorate the kitchen with. Within a half hour, Simon found himself gulping once Bud entered the house, removing his coat and felt hat before hanging it up on the hook. "Don't forget to take off those boots, honey." 

"Darlin', my toes are damn near frozen off. Takin' them off right now will just make it worse," Bud scoffed, looking ahead to see Simon stand to his feet to greet him. "Oh, I didn't know you had company," He chuckled, stepping closer to extend his arm to shake Simon's hand. "How are you, son? Where's your other half?" He teased. 

"Out getting her nails tended to, I'm afraid." 

"Oh, Lord, my daughter is going all girly again," He laughed. "Turning those strong hands of hers into something fragile. Not a good combination." 

Simon got the hint that Bud always wanted Kiera to be nearly a spitting image of himself, never wanting her to feel fragile and feminine as he thought it risked any part of masculinity that Bud was able to pass onto his daughter, even though he had another daughter Simon had met at Christmas as well as her brother - finding it odd that neither of them would come around often. 

"Stop it, Bud. She just wants to do something nice for herself," Eva poked. "She can still work and have pretty nails." And a pretty diamond ring on her hand, both Eva and Simon thought at the same time, amusing the other as they found themselves glancing at each other once the thought crossed their mind. 

"I know. I'm just kiddin'," Bud sighed, entering the lounge to pour him a glass of much-desired bourbon, tilting the bottle towards Simon. "Would you like some?" 

"Thought you'd never ask." He chuckled, gladly accepting Bud's offer, his nerves failing to find any sign of subsiding since her father returned to the house. 

He took the glass of bourbon, hastily taking the first sip to fill the void of that familiar burn in his chest as it went down, beginning to shake his leg impatiently as Bud sat down next to his wife, extending his arm around her by resting his arm on the back of the couch before crossing his leg over his knee. Simon gulped as he watched Eva nod at him, ensuring him that she would be there for his big question, hoping her presence would help ease the nervousness Simon had carried with him since they had gotten back from the jeweler. 

How do I say this? What do I say? Don't blurt it, Simon. Casually bring it up. I can only imagine how mad he'll be when he finds out she's pregnant and I didn't marry her first. Fuck, you stupid bloke, grow a pair, he scolded himself, pressing his thumb against his ring finger in anxiousness as well as shaking his leg impatiently. "Did Kiera tell you about the trip her and Simon are taking next month?" Eva started, giving Simon the advantage to think about what he was going to say for a while longer. 

Bud shook his head, furrowing his grey brows in confusion, "No. Where're you two goin'?" 

"There's a military ball next month. All of my team will be there. Johnny invited Teeter and I invited your daughter, sir." 

"Teeter? A ball? That'll be interestin'," Bud chuckled playfully. "That'll be a first for the both of them. I'm sure Kiera will enjoy it since she has the sudden urge to want to play dress-up." 

"Yeah, I thought the same thing," Simon chuckled. "The thought of Teeter wearing a dress just seems bizarre to me, but she's excited about it." 

"Where're you from in England again?" 

"Manchester, sir. I was going to take her to my hometown and show her around. Let her experience the culture." And ask her to be my wife...

"She'll love it. I don't think she's ever been to England with her work." 

"She told me she's been to London before, but it was a layover, so she didn't get to experience it. The ball is being held in London. They got us all a room and everything." 

Bud nodded in approval and Simon gulped, knowing he'd have to bring up the request sooner or later...

He gulped, "There's, um, something I was planning to do while we were there that I wanted to ask you before I did it, sir." 

Bud's gaze went to lock with Simon's, the men establishing nearly dominant eye contact. No other man had made Simon nervous before. I can't blame him, though. If we're having a girl, I wouldn't want any boy coming around her for as long as I'm alive. "What's that?" 

He found himself gulping again, his Adam's Apple bobbing nearly uncontrollably in his throat. Eva took notice of this and frowned at his nervousness, hoping he was soon to realize that the hardest part of the entire thing was to ask Kiera himself and how he was going to do it. "I... I want to ask your daughter to marry me, sir." 

Bud paused for a moment, shocked that a man had the nerve to ask him for his daughter's hand in marriage. It made Simon very uncomfortable - expecting him to blow up and scold him for it, sensing that Bud had a hard time in accepting change, especially when it came to his daughter. Bud took another sip of his bourbon before resting the glass on his knee and tapping the pad of his index finger against the glass. "You... You're brave, son." 

"I like to think I am, sir." He breathed a chuckle. 

"No, you are. Because not only are you asking her father to hand her to you, but you devoting yourself to her completely and loving her proves that you're not afraid of anything." He explained, a small smile creeping behind his mustache. 

"She's my entire world, sir. I wanted to give up everything in mine just to be a part of hers."

"That's something we can agree on," Bud sighed. "I don't mean offense, but you may say you love her, but you won't ever love her like I do. That's my heart you'll be runnin' off with. I expect you to cradle it like an egg."

"I understand, sir. I'd be the same way if I had a daughter of my own." 

"You'll understand it one day, I can assure you, but I'll give you a little warning: that girl will run you ragged." He chuckled. 

He breathed a chuckle, "I already got that part figured out." 

"Then as long as you take care of her and take true to your word, as much as I hate to have to let her go, you have my permission." 

A strong sigh of relief escaped Simon's nostrils, his heart thudding against his chest, "Thank you, sir." 

"No need to thank me, son. I had a feeling you were going to ask the big question sooner or later." 

"Why's that?" 

"Man-to-man: we know when we've found our person. Just ask my wife, I proposed to her when we were courting for less than a month." 

"I actually asked him," Eva teased, her white smile complimenting her round face. "He was too scared to ask my daddy and he was still in the service. I told him I'd rather be his widow than just a lover." 

"Don't let her lie to you," Bud scoffed. "I wasn't scared." 

"Yeah, you were. You told me yourself." 

"This ain't about me right now, Eva." 

Simon chuckled at their bickering, finding himself to look forward to how he and Kiera would bicker in front of their kids one day. 

"You turned it on yourself, honey!" Eva giggled before turning back to Simon. "You know you have my blessing." 

"You bless everything," Bud scoffed. "Blessing everyone's heart-"

"That's usually an insult, honey. You know - bless your heart?"

"So that's why you said it to Johnny so much?" Simon chuckled. 

"That boy is something special, that's for sure," Eva sighed. "But bless his little heart." 

"Lord knows that boy needs it," Bud nodded. "Is he really a demolitionist?" 

"As much as I hate to admit, he is. And a bloody good one. He knows explosives but doesn't seem to know when to not ask stupid questions." Simon added, knowing he'd be gaining the pleasure of aggravating Soap if he were to be there. 

Their heads turned once they heard gravel grinding together along the driveway, Simon seeing a glimpse of Kiera's truck as she had finally arrived home. "There goes my baby girl," Bud frowned. "When are you planning to ask her again?" 

"When we get to Manchester," He sighed, standing to his feet after finishing the last of his bourbon. "I haven't planned it out completely yet. It's been a while since I've been back, but I figured I could at least remember something good that happened there compared to how it was to me growing up." 

"That's the hardest part, but I'm sure you'll have it all figured out. I really don't want to let her go, but I know she needs to be happy. I've seen too many fail to make her happy and I've also seen how she kicks 'em to the curb. It's rather amusing, but I'm glad she chased them away before I did." 

"Oh, I'm sure." Simon smirked, reaching out to shake Bud's hand after the older man extended his arm - the ultimate seal of approval from father to future son-in-law. 

"But, I can say this: you're the only one of the few men she's brought around that I like. I saw how you took care of her when she got back from the hospital and how you put her before yourself. It's admirable. What every man should be. Reminds me how I should do better with my own wife before she kills me." He poked. 

"Thank you, sir." 

"Would you and Kiera like to join us for dinner?" 

"She said she was going to make something when she got back," Eva added before Simon could even reply. "I'm sure she and Simon have a nice dinner planned." 

"Knowing her, it's probably take-out," He chuckled. "I told her if she didn't feel like cooking tonight, I'd make something. I don't mind to, though. I like aggravating her about her cooking skills so she can smack me." 

"Ain't that the truth. The girl can't even boil water." Bud agreed, making Simon laugh. 

"Stop it, Bud. She makes good food!" 

"Yeah, when she reads the instructions." Simon poked, smirking at how Bud released a genuine laugh at his comment. If Simon had to be truthful, Kiera could cook when she felt like it, blaming the military for a quick meal instead of spending extra time on it. Hell, Simon was the same way, nearly eating Ramen noodles with barely any of flavor as he was too concerned on filling his stomach instead of enjoying it. 

[fullofgutsndopamine]

tonight we lie awake (stories take us back)

summer camp au where charlie is the camp nurse you can't seem to stay out of his office

TW/ cursing, mention of injury (not graphic), bad attempts at flirting. reader is they/them except one instance of "miss", brief mention of charlie having a tattoo(i don’t make the rules)

more here

Your eyes are on the bench in front of you, a pile of various skateboard decorate the bench, all donated, some in better shape than others. some other consuler at camp complained about spending too much time in one center, sick of being in the lake all day, having pruny hands and telling kids to stop splashing each other, threatened to quit mid summer if they weren't moved.

which is how you found yourself outside of the comfort of the shack you were use to, tucked away in the heart of the camp ground, a wooden porch wrapped around and a screen door that creeks when it opens. it was small, bordered on being a closet, one where you couldn't keep everything in, but it was home and the kids would run to you with the biggest smile on their faces, showing off macaroni art with smiles so big it had to border on being uncomfortable. so it was home the last few summers, and you were fine with that.

this was outside your comfort zone, and you told your boss as much, but with a sly grin he slid your resume back, questioned how you put: up for anything, relaxed, likes a challenge on there if it wasn't true.

you told charlie as much, months later, when he stayed late cleaning up the mess hall, always surprised by what a mess a group of kids could make. a bonfire was happening at the same time, and you were promised a s'mores by a group of small children who routinely chanted "beads! beads!" while your head disappeared into a creaking cabinet for more. friendship bracelets were practically currency here, you learned quickly, a small stack of bracelets from kids that made it impossible to sneak around the camp yard, always pulling them up

you knew of charlie, of course.

everyone had-it was a matter of who said it, who thought differently of him.

Candace, who rolled her eyes when you mention him: "of fucking course i know that asshole. if you see him, he owes me $5 bucks-" you open your mouth to challenge it but she shakes her head:

"he knows what he did."

Sam, who flinched when you mentioned it.

"Stay away from him," she says, her voice is practically a hum as she speaks, low and something you have to strain to hear, "he's bad news. I mean it."

she doesn't elaborate, and you don't have the courage to ask her as much.

fate would bring you two together.

charlie would argue stupidity, but you'd argue they don't pay him for his opinions, and instead to just hand over the damn bandaids, instead of him carefully unsealing them, sticking them to you with the kind of concentration that a child calls for

"Mr.Charlie!"

Look, you didn't ask for the dramatics. but the accident happened so quickly, wasn't even able to put on the brave face before Annie was pulling you (more like yanking you) to the office, barely giving you enough time to yell over your shoulder for your co teacher, Bailey, to keep a watchful eye on them

"i'm fine, Annie. look-"

you're trying to insist but it's to no luck.

"Mr.Charlie will take care of you.” Annie insists, practically rolling her eyes at you, leaving it at that.

Charlie appears almost immediately, half hidden in a cabinet where he's re stocking his ever disappearing stockpile of bandaids and gauze, the latest accident at the makeshift skatepark partially ran him out of business.

"Annie!" he smiles widely, "my favorite patient!"

"Charlie," she shakes her head, "it's miss. they hurt themselves during craft-"

Charlie, who has his hair pushed back from his forehead in the messiest ponytail you'd ever seen, wears shorts and a obviously handmade tie dye shirt, the walkie talkie clipped to the top of his shirt that pulls it down so a tattoo peaks over the top that you can't quite make out-

"and here i was thinking you were just coming to visit me," he pouts before ruffling annie's hair,

"thank you for bringing them in. i'll take it from here."

she looks at his shirt until he leans down, still towers over her as she cups her hand to his ear and whispers into it, the way his eyes narrow as they scan over to you, the smirk that pulls at his lips.

"ah," he nods, "i got it from here."

if you weren't so afraid it was a symptom of a concussion you could swear there was a hint of an accent in there.

annie nods, holds her hand out in front of you in a way that seems very similar to someone telling a dog to stay, before darting out of the small cabin.

"if you give her like, two minutes to get back to camp i can sneak through the back door and get out of your hair."

he laughs. the bastard laughs.

"and risk my medical degree? i don't think so." he's back to the cabin, riffling through it before he appears with a small clear tub at his hip. groaning, thinking you'd get out of this easier as he drops to his knees in front of you-

"what medical degree, exactly?"

he laughs, the gauze inches from your face:

"are you questioning my medical degree when you're quite literally bleeding?"

"you not answering makes it more suspicious, just so you know."

he laughs, dips the gauze in some dark liquid before it comes in contact with your face:

"noted," he says gently. he doesn't say anything, but hums gently as he blots at your face.

"it's charlie, by the way." and when you don't answer back immediately, don't indulge him with your name like he's use to, "for later googling. when you're looking up my credentials, no doubt."

"depends on how good a job you do." you grumble back, still mad your missing your favorite project of the year.

he laughs: "i see. my google review depends on it."

his thumb rests under your chin as he tilts your head, his eyes narrowed as he checks you out, ignoring the growing red on your face:

"¡ think you'll be okay," he sighs, "hold this." he hands over one of the ice packs for you to hold and with an eye-roll you obey, holding it onto your face, feeling like you're in middle school again.

he makes his way to his desk, comes back with a small mason jar with brightly colored sweets at the bottom.

“what’s this?”

"all the patients get a bandaid and a sweet?" it's a question, not a statement, suddenly unsure of himself, not the confident charlie you'll later know.

"it helps, yknow?"

"pass," you say again, "look, can i go? it's just a scratch-"

he shakes the jar at you once more and you know you aren't leaving without one. making sure to make a big show of it, you roll your eyes, finally accepting the treat.

"most kids at least say thank you."

he says gently, his voice is low and quiet, unsure of itself.

"thank you."

you try to sound genuine, because your face isn't bleeding anymore and that alone is a reason to be nice, but you're unsure what to say of him, all the warnings you got before are running through your head-

"i owe you one."

it comes out before you can stop yourself, and you're about to open your mouth, take it back, but finally he’s laughing "yeah," he says, "alright, ill hold you to that."

"right," not going to let him have the last word,

"sure."

"sure," he agrees, "i'll see you tonight. the dining hall."

you shrug, acting like it won't be nice to finally have someone to sit next to.

"sure."

your feet guide you to the door and you beg for them not to betray you, not to fall-

"it's a date."

he calls back and that's enough for you to race out before he can see how permanent red he makes your face, or how steady your heartbeat in your ears are.

[mvrtaiswriting]

Wah hi, sorry I'm new to this. I saw requests were open so imma just leave this here. You can get to it whenever you want or you can just ignore it. No pressure. :"

I was thinking Sanji takes their S/O to dinner in a local town on some island they're visiting (Y/n orders a lobster but it's rotten & Sanji realizes last minute after their S/O eats it). This is actually from an episode from Kitchen Nightmares, I was curious on how a chef like Sanji would react towards a chef at the restaurant getting their S/O terribly sick, let alone serve rotten lobster?

1:20 | https://youtu.be/1Dhkjmup7PQ

- Your local plant boy 🌱

Lobster x Black Leg Sanji ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :

hullo local plant boy, thanks for requesting this! what i came up with doesn't exactly follow your video suggestion - but it definitely informed the whole scenario! of course, I had to put a lil one piece universe twist, and i hope you don't mind it!! i enjoyed writing this so much, hope it meets your expectations <333

warnings: usual one piece violence, food poisoning, mentions of nausea?? gn!reader, fluff / 1.1k words.

feel free to reblog, like, and leave a comment. i would very much appreciate it. if you enjoy my works, click here to read more. 

Sanji had been preparing for this exact moment for weeks now.

Finally docking in such a small, hidden island was the perfect opportunity to finally enjoy some time alone with you. With a bit of luck, no marines or stupid pirate hunters would be around to track you down trying to get your head. Finally, Sanji could take you out on a proper date - dining in a fancy restaurant, walking around the city and buying you the biggest bouquet of flowers. For one night only, you could lead a normal life, free of dangers and violence.

"I found a really nice place for tonight." He whispered in your ear with the biggest smile on his face. Interlocking his fingers with yours, he gently guided you through the colourful alleys of the new town. His pace was confident and so oddly patient - you stopped at every shop, tasted every type of local street food and bought souvenirs for every member of the crew. Feeling so safe was a strange feeling - not that you ever feared danger with Sanji by your side; it wasn't that. That night you weren't one of the most wanted pirates on the Grand line, you were just a happy couple enjoying the warm welcome of crowds that didn't know you. Despite the warm welcome the island offered, the anonymity it granted was the best gift it could provide.

Finally arriving at the restaurant Sanji had chosen, you noticed how a small table for two was set up in a more private area of the ballroom. It had rose petals all over it, and a majestic candle holder that made everything just perfect. Two glasses of the best champagne were waiting for you at the dinner table, your private waiter offering them to you immediately after your arrival. Sanji had everything planned, he had thought about every detail - the starter you would share, a lobster for your main meal, remembering how much you enjoyed it. It was difficult on the ship to catch some, so he rarely had the chance to prepare it to you. Tonight however, he wanted everything to be perfect - from the atmosphere to the food, from your dinner date to himself.

"Could you taste this?"

You asked Sanji, a small cough escaping your mouth. Something was off with your plate, yet you weren't quite sure. Your meal had a strange, bitter taste to it - and you almost didn't want to bring this up, you didn't want to ruin the night Sanji had meticulously planned. You couldn't exactly pinpoint exactly what was wrong with your food, if they used a particular spice or a local ingredient - and although you weren't a picky eater, you couldn't tolerate it anymore. Coughing again, you handed your fork to Sanji.

Sanji raised his curly eyebrow in confusion, grabbing the fork from you and offering you some water. Before he could even taste the bite of lobster you handed him, the stinging smell of rotten flesh inebriated his sense. It was well-hidden behind a fancy coat of wine sauce, spices and fresh tomatoes - but there was no doubt, not for him.

Before he could even tell you what was wrong, your hands were already wrapped around your throat, desperately reaching for air. Poison? Rotten meat? Sanji scanned the room quickly, trying to find a the culprit, someone who even remotely looked like someone who might want you dead. This was intentional, there were no doubts - a chef would always recognise rotten meat, even a rookie. Yet, this wasn't a rookie's doing - no, the distinctive, stinging smell and taste of death was too perfectly hidden for this to be just a silly mistake.

Kicking the table out of the way, he was quick to reach you. His years working in a restaurant had thought him about first aid in case of food poisoning. He was quick to open your airways just enough, finally enabling you to finally grasp some air. Your breathing was weak and still a bit impeded, but you were out of danger for now.

"Go."

You nodded, noticing the rampant rage in Sanji's eyes.

"I'll get us out of here." You added, winking at Sanji and trying to reassure him. Despite being out of breath, you still managed to reassure him. He was quick to kiss your forehead, grateful you were alive and so, so understanding.

What happened after that felt like a blur. You had fragmented memories of you fighting the waiter who had served you all night, who you discovered to be a pirate hunter hoping to earn your bounty. You remembered hearing Sanji screaming about the chefs' code and rumble about the sanitary rules of a kitchen instants before seeing the chef fly down the hall, probably being kicked out by Sanji - but you had no idea of how you managed to make it to the ship safely. As you sat still on your bed, a strong feeling of nausea made its appearance - making you remember you had just eaten rotten food, ingested an incredible amount of poison and almost choked to death on the floor of a restaurant. Not bad for a first, should-have-been-proper date. Sanji lightly knocked on your door, before making his way in your room. He was carrying a try with what smelled like soup, some bread and a tall glass of water.

"These will help." He said, leaving the tray on your bedside table and kissing your temple. The brand new shirt he wore earlier on just for you was now covered in soup spills, its perfectly ironed sleeves now all rolled up and ruined. Even his tie was undone, hanging loosely from his neck - indicating that he'd probably worked on your soup for hours. A deep sense of guilt was painted across his gentle figures, making his worried expression the saddest scene you've ever witnessed.

"I'm sorry for tonight. I should have been more careful, I.."

Sanji sighed, taking your hands in his. He left soft kisses on your knuckles, his face resting on the back of your hands. Resting your forehead against his, you chuckled and poked his nose.

"Thank you for the soup, and for taking care of me. Not that I ever thought otherwise, but now we know you're the only chef worth of my trust. And taste buds, most importantly."

Sanji couldn't help but chuckle at your response - your words made his heart feel ten times lighter. Even with your bed hair and your sickened appearance, Sanji thought you were as beautiful as ever. He would take this over ten million perfect dates; he longed for this type of intimacy, even it meant holding your hair while you feel nauseous.

"I owe you a lobster."

[emilyssky]

Chapter 7: In For It

PAIRING: Lee Know! X fem!reader

GENRE(S): college au, smut, angst

WARNINGS: Mentions of violence and abuse, depression, self harm, eating disorders etc.. mentions of blood, swearing, smoking, smut [ dirty talk, oral; giving and receiving, choking, spanking, praising, degradation, pet names, sometimes Minho is a dick :)

SUMMARY: "Do you remember what you told me the first time we met?"  

"What?"

"You said; Always leave people a little better than you found them" he looked at the floor with a small smile for a few seconds and then his eyes found mine. "You really annoyed me when we first met. I envied your optimism and excitement for life. But each time I saw you, I felt a certain thrill. You made me angry, you made me laugh., you made me feel everything. Something about you made me feel a little more alive each time. I know I fucked up and I know I'm an asshole but I'm also brutally in love with you."    

Things are starting to get out of control and the game has turned into something completely different. Changbin was gone by the time I came back from the bathroom cause apparently Lia was not feeling well, so he drove her home. Emma and Seungmin have given up on the game and are making out on the couch, completely ignoring us and the rest of us are utterly drunk at this point.  We continue to play nevertheless but the rules are probably none existent right now. Questions and dares are being asked around and everything is starting to become messy.

"Okay, no. That's not happening." Chan answers before I have the chance to.

"Chan-"

"Nope. You're drunk and you're not taking your shirt off." He throws Jisung a dirty look, who simply lifts his shoulders in defense.

"She dared me to go to the balcony and twerk for a whole minute in my underwear. It's only fair." Jeongin pouts.

I giggle at his expression. "I don't mind." I reach for the ends of my shirt, about to peel it off my body. Chris instantly moves to stop my hands but it's the low growl of my name from his lips that made me stop.

"You're not wearing a bra stupid," Chan whispers annoyed.

I slap my hand over my mouth. "Oops."

Jisung laughs, shaking his head. "I think it's time to call it a night."

I look around; Felix is sleeping beside him, well passed out probably, Emma and Seungmin are basically fucking in front of us, and Hyunjin-

"I think Hyunjin's going to be-" I didn't even finish my sentence before Hyunjin vomited all over the floor in front of him. "...sick"

"Fuck." Chris sighs, already on his feet.

Jisung gets up, not looking Hyunjin's way twice. "I'll bring the mop."

Chan pulls Hyunjin's head back, laying him down on his side. "Okay buddy, hold on."

"Great once again, we have no way to get home."  I groan.

Seungmin lifts himself off of the couch with Emma wrapped around his waist. They make their way up the stairs without breaking the kiss for a split second or even sparing a glance at us.

"Excellent." I groan again.

"You can stay here." Jeongin offers casually. "We have space."

"We don't," Minho says, his tone cold and sharp.

"Yeah, we do," Jeongin continues nevertheless, his gaze avoiding his friend, looking around almost nervously. "We all have double beds."

Minho's eyes stay fixated on him, narrowing slightly until he turns to Chan, who's trying to wake up Hyunjin with no luck. "Do you need help taking them home?"

Chan rubs his hands over his face, thinking. "I'll have to take Felix and Hyunjin back to the frat and then Y/n back to her place since I'll be staying here tonight."

"That's basically back and forth. Just take them back to the frat and I'll take the girls." He offers, with his face, expressionless.

Chan looks between me and Minho, and I can almost see all his thoughts clouding his head. "She's drunk, I don't feel okay about leaving her alone."

"I'm completely fine, thank you very much."I try to stand up, but I stumble over my own two feet. His arms come up around me for support as I reach him, but he doesn't even glance down at me, his eyes are on Minho.

"You don't have to worry. Plus you've been drinking as well." He points out with a natural face, unbothered by the way Chan's looking at him. "I've only had like 2 shots."

It takes him a few seconds but to my surprise he sighs, "Fine."

"But I don't wanna go yet," I quickly whine.

"Is Emma gonna stay here?" He asks Chan, both of them ignoring me.

"It looks like it."

"Come on." Minho's hand comes around my arm, pulling me away from Chan's comfort. His rough grip makes me stumble, losing my balance due to the dizziness of my mind and the numbness of my limbs, but I feel his palm on my back and my eyes shoot up to his, I sober up immediately.  

"Do you need any help?" Jeongin gets up from the couch.

Minho steels. "No, it's fine I got it."

"You sure?" He presses, taking a step towards us.

I feel his grip tightening on my arm, his sharp breath hitting the side of my head.

I clear my throat, noticing the sudden tension, and move away from his grip before he says anything back. "I'll be fine." I pull Jeongin into a quick hug. "I'll see you."

I grab my purse and jacket from the back of the couch, just when Jisung appears with a mop and a bucket in his hands.

"Are you leaving?" His face falls a bit.

"I don't want to." I pout back. "They're kicking me out."

"Let's go." Minho appears behind me, pushing me forward lightly and I send him a glare. "I don't have all night."

"Where are you going?" Jisung asks him.

He answers without looking at him, "I have to take her home."

"You don't 'have to' do anything, you offered actually. I can gladly call a cab." I turn around, not realizing just how close behind me he was.

"You're a child." He says with no emotion on his face.

"And you're an asshole." I fire back, getting annoyed. I never asked him to take me home. "I think I rather someone else take me!" I move past him, try to actually but his fingers wrap around my arm, sharply pulling me back.

"I said I'm taking you home. Now, get your ass out the door." He says, keeping his tone low.

"You don't tell me what I can and can't do." I take a few steps forward, tilting my head upwards to look at him. I take a look over his shoulder, noticing Jisung helping Chan with Hyunjin and Jeongin being nowhere to be found. "But I don't wanna cause yet another scene because of you and I'm tired. " I look back at him. "That's the only reason I'm walking out the door."

A smirk creeps into his lips. "Sure."

.

.

.

.

His car is a black Jeep and it's surprisingly clean. No condoms or bags from fast food places are thrown on the ground.

"Seatbelt." His raspy voice echoes through the small space. I feel chills running down my arms partly from the cold yet I do as he says, and put my seatbelt on. It's hard not to let my eyes linger on his side profile as he starts the car and drives out of his parking spot, silently admiring how perfectly calm all of his features are yet how strong and sharp. It's rare to see any intense emotion painting his face, the only source that proves he is not a robot, is his eyes. The corners of his mouth lift slightly, letting me now that I've been caught. Fuck, I'm too drunk for this, and the more I stare at him the harder the realization that he's undeniably handsome hits me, so I focus my eyes on the road, instead.

"Just so you know I tend to talk a lot when I drink," I speak up, breaking the uncomfortable silence.

"Oh, I know." A small smirk appears.

Heat rises to my cheeks as the memories of the first time we met come to my mind. I wonder how he remembers me? I wonder if he thought about that night just as much as I've thought about it. I shake my head and force the questions down my throat. He obviously doesn't care, but still for some reason my nerves grow just like the silence between us, and my leg starts to bounce up and down.

"Stop."

I turn to him confused but he keeps his eyes on the road. His right hand move from the wheel to my knee, forcing it to a stop and the action is so fast and smooth that makes me suck a breath. His hand doesn't move, it lingers over the top of my knee for a few more seconds until it starts sliding slowly down my thigh. I don't breath, I don't dare to, not until his fingers finish brushing their way to the top off my thigh like a feather, only a few inches away from where I'm now suddently craving them to be.

"Why are you nervous?" His smirk grows, probably sensing who tense I am.

'I'm not ' is what I should answer but my mind is a blurry mess, a shit tone of questions are about to slip out of my mouth before I can stop them and the confidence that the alcohol in my system offers me doesn't help.

"Cause there's so much I wanna say but I know I shouldn't." I say instead.

His features still for a split second and his eyes turn to me. It looks like he thinks about his answer as well but after a few seconds, he says. " Why shouldn't you?"

I chuckle. "Cause it's a waste of time."

His eyebrows come together. "Why?"

"Cause you don't wanna talk to me. For some reason, you decided to not like me." I say before I can't stop myself. "And normally I wouldn't care, but I have been nothing but nice to you. A lot of times I come off as rude or cold, cause I'm just a bit closed off, I guess you can say." I turn to him. "But I have been so nice to you," I say again, raising my tone but smiling a bit. I don't know why, but I'm smiling.

He stops at a red light and turns to face me, resting his head back on the seat. His eyes are glistening under the dim light of the headlights.

I tilt my head, almost hypnotized. "Do you know that your eyes sparkle?"

His face twitches with interest. A rare sight. "What?"

I giggle bringing my knee up and resting my head on it, my eyes not leaving his. He tilts his head as well, looking at me like his searching for something and I'm waiting for him to talk. He lets out a sigh and bites his lip, his eyes studying my face. I wanna save this moment in my memories exactly how it is but I'm afraid that my drunken mind won't remember it clearly. I like that he's looking at me. And I like that we're not talking. I feel comfortable and peaceful. I could stay like this for hours. My mind blurry, unable to think or worry about anything. No anxiety, no emotions making me physically sick, just silence. My body relaxed, not pressured to dance a certain way or look a certain way. My mouth close, not trying to keep up with conversations or entertain anyone. Simply staying still and being looked at by him without saying a single word.

"I like this moment," I whisper, my thoughts out loud. The light has turned green but he doesn't seem to care, we're alone on the road anyway.

He hesitantly raises his hand, the action so familiar in the most intense and unsettling way that  I close my eyes, mechanically.

"Open your eyes." He demands gently.

My eyes open, to meet his again but now with a different kind of light in them. Hard but soft, full of suppressed emotion. He brings his hand to the side of my head, tugging my hair behind my ear.

"You never have to close your eyes around me." He rubs his thumb over my cheek, my skin tingling underneath it. "I don't ever wanna see you flinch or cover your face when you're with me 'cause every time you do you push me closer to pulling up to that motherfucker's house and making sure he won't have fingers to lay on another female ever again." He says, his eyes darkening with each word and I can feel my heart warm. Warm by his words, warm by the way he's looking at me and touching me.

I nibble at my bottom lip, trying to cover up my smile unsuccessfully.  "Are you bipolar?"  At that, his face breaks into a smile, his perfect teeth on display.  "No really, I'm curious, 'cause man you're confusing me."

He shakes his head, his bright smile slowly fading until it turns into a sad one. "What am I gonna do with you?" He whispers and I feel like he's talking more to himself rather than me.

"You're gonna drive me home, " I answer either way. "And we're gonna forget that this happened. You're gonna go back to you either being a dick to me just to get my attention or ignoring my whole existence until we get drunk and can be real with each other again." I say, trying to keep my eyes from closing.

The wave of comfort that suddenly came with the softness of his words and overall presence hits me hard. I feel his tender touch slide from the side of my face and I swear he said something but my brain had shut off and sleep took over me before I had the chance to hear what.

.

.

.

.

.

.

Tomorrow is the first official day of our winter break and normally, since it's Sunday night we would celebrate all together but somehow it's 9 p.m and I'm alone in my apartment, getting ready to binge-watch the Harry Potter movies for the 100th time. Hyunjin has made plans with Jisoo, Felix is hanging out with Changbin at the frat, probably watching some stupid basketball game and Emma has a date with Seungmin. And when I say date, I mean a fancy-ass dinner date, that I hope will make their relationship official. Chan's with Jisung at the studio but I'm not really in the mood to join them, so I decided to stay inside, which I've been craving actually. It's been a while since I've had a night to myself but 2 hours in and I've already regretted it. Being alone comes with having none but your own thoughts to keep you company and that is one thing I desperately wanna avoid. The thoughts about me, the thoughts about him. Thinking in general. Ever since we started hanging out with Chan's friends I've been constantly stepping out of my comfort zone. I went from staying inside every single day to going out every single weekend. I don't regret it though, I'm grateful for meeting them. I've really grown to like hanging out with them and I can see that Hyunjin, Emma, and Felix feel the same way, it's just that everything has been happening so fast, that I need to take a step back and collect myself a bit. I feel my head being all over the place, especially with everything that's happening with Minho. It's been definitely a while since I gave any man a single time of my day, let alone allow him to conquer my every thought the way that he does. I've been forcing myself not to think that much into anything about him but each time he will do something or say something that will just completely throw away all my logical thoughts and self-control. I have no idea how he sees me or what are his thoughts about us; if there's even an 'us' to begin with. I try to push the thoughts about him to the back of my head as I wrap my arms around my body tighter. I push the door of the convenience store, hearing the 'ring' sound echo throughout the store.

"Hey, Y/n." Nick greets me with a smile for his position behind the counter.

"Hi." I return the smile and walk further into the store, finding my way down the all-too-familiar hallway. I stand in front of the limited wine collection, searching for my favorite bottle of red wine but instead, I throw my head back and a small groan escapes me as I realize they're out.

"Great..." I mumble to myself.

"Y/n?"

My head snaps to the left, seeing Jeongin standing towards the end of the hall. A few beers, a bag of chips, and my favorite bottle of wine in his hands. With his face half-hidden inside his hood, he walks towards me.

I narrow my eyes a bit, focusing on the bottle in his hands. "You stole my favorite wine."

My words make him pause slightly and he looks down at his hands and then at the shelf.

"Sorry, but it's my favorite too." He half-smiles.

I take a deep breath. "Look it's been a long day and I really need to chill, watch a movie, and drink my comfort wine." My incredibly horrible mood begins to make an appearance, yet his smile doesn't falter.

"Well, someone's grumpy." He jokes.

"Yes, someone is."

"Well, it's been a long day for me as well. " He walks towards me. " And I wanna drink my wine and watch the game."

I groan in his face and he lets out a laugh. "Come on, Jeongin please."

My eyes must have really looked desperate cause his smile grew a little in the few minutes of silence.  "Fine let's make a deal then." He offers.

I cross my hands. "I'm listening."

"We'll share." He smirks.

"I'm not watching basketball." I shake my head.

He rolls his eyes, taking a few seconds to think. "You like movies?"

On any other occasion, I would completely avoid any offer by a guy to watch movies and drink in my apartment but tonight I don't let myself think too much. The truth is that I need company to distract me from my thoughts that are eating me alive and also a few glasses of my favorite wine. If these two options come in a package deal with Jeongin, then so be it.

I let my lips form a smile. "Obviously. "

"Your place or mine?" He smiles back.

There's no way I'm going over to that house, with all the guys there. It's not gonna end well and I really need to relax tonight. I don't want the tension that comes with seeing Minho right now.

"Mine."

"Cool." He walks past me.

.

.

.

.

.

"It's not fair, I should have paid half," I whine for probably the 10th time, taking a seat next to him on the couch. It does feel a little bit weird to have a guy, besides my Hyunjin, Felix, and Chan, sitting comfortably in my living room, but nothing about Jeongin is or feels uncomfortable. In fact, our whole way back from the store was filled with easy-flowing conversation and the second he entered my apartment he acted as if he's been here many times before.

"It's whatever. " He brushes me off. "Just buy me coffee next time and we're even." He makes himself comfortable on my couch, spreading his arm at the back and letting his tall body lean backwards, fully relaxed.

I set the bowl of popcorn and the bottle of wine along with two glasses on the coffee table in front of us before taking a seat next to him. I keep a little amount of space between our bodies, my small couch not really helping, and grab a blanket, throwing it over my bottom half, trying to get comfortable as well.

"So what are we watching?" He pulls the blanket over to cover his legs as well. I can't help but giggle at how he tries to fit his tall body under the blanket, pulling it all to his side, leaving me completely bare.

"This is not gonna work." I shake my head.

His lips are in a loose smile, his eyes big, almost puppy-like looking back at me. He opens the side of the blanket, a silent offer for me to scoop a bit closer to him.

And so I do, without much thought. "You like Harry Potter?"

"Who doesn't?" He mumbles with his mouth already filled with popcorn.

I press play and grab my glass of wine.

. . . .

It was unexcepted honestly, how addictive his company was becoming each minute passing, or how fun. Even though I've never hung out with Jeongin one on one, it surprised me how comfortable and at ease I felt. His whole presence was like a light breeze, so easy going and smooth. Throughout the movie, he made jokes or comments, opening conversations effortlessly about the scenes or the movie in general, and the conversation continued to flow even after the movie ended. It felt easy getting to know him, from his upbringing to his first year of college, he talked to me like an open book. His dreams of becoming a singer and his passion for any form of art were no surprise to me but I didn't expect just how driven he is by his love for music. He talked about the rest of the guys and everything they're currently working on with stars in his eyes. I was a bit hesitant to offer him the same honesty he did to me but the hesitation didn't last very long and I found myself talking more than I've had in a long, long time. I purposely avoided sensitive topics and focused on my own journey with dance, what I really wanna do,my hopes and dreams along with a few small details about myself that I never really thought anyone would like to listen about yet he kept his eyes on me the whole time, listening patiently.

"Was it painful?"

He shakes his head with a small, sad smile. "Awfully painful, but worth it. She was my first love."

"My first love," I start already feeling heavy but the mention of him. "was awfully painful as well, but if I could go back, I would tell myself to run as far away from him as possible."

"Cheated?" He tries to guess.

"The cheating was the least painful part." The truth behind my words, so loud, that it made my chest tighten.

He nods lightly, his eyes moving all over my face, noticing the sudden sadness. "Love can be painful, but partly that's the beauty of it."

I look at him, my head tilting, intrigued. "What do you mean?"

"What's the point to be loved if not getting hurt as well?" He continues, with the same softness in his gaze. "Pain is a reminder that the love was real."

It's hard to not let the wave of emotions that came with his words take over me completely and It's hard not to break down in tears in front of him.

"But what if the pain never stops?" I whisper, my breath trembling.

His face softens even more. "It will. It will take time but it will go away, and you will heal. Maybe by yourself or maybe with the help of someone else."

I blink, feeling a tear rolling down my cheekbone but before I have time to catch it, his thumb comes up and gently slides across my face. My eyes shoot to his, facing nothing but pure understanding in his gaze.

"I think it's time to call it a night." He softy says, dropping his hand from my face. His body stays close to mine and I stay almost frozen. "I don't want you to get all emotional on me."

I smile at his attempt to joke the intensity of the conversation away, as he lifts himself off my couch.

"Thank you for the company." I lean against the doorway, as he adjusts his jacket.

"Anytime." He winks. "Come by the studio tomorrow, with that coffee you owe me."

A playful scoff escapes me, his flirty personality already growing on me.

"Maybe, I will."

My answer seems to satisfy him enough cause his face breaks into one last smile. "Goodnight, Y/n."

.

.

.

.

.

I love cold weather. I love the rain, the snow, the wind. I love feeling cold and wearing layers and layers of clothes. Today is one of those days and I couldn't be happier about it. I'm wearing a pair of baggy black jeans and a black turtle neck with my leather jacket and a huge scarf on top as I make my way to the studio. I had completely forgotten that I made plans with Chan to meet at the studio at 11 am. It's now 1:14 pm and prepare myself mentally as I open the studio door.

"I'm so sorry" I apologize the minute I lock eyes with Chan, his face dead serious.

"I'm changing my best friend to Felix, that's it." He turns his back on me. He's sitting in his chair as usual, while Jeongin, jisung, and Changbin are sitting on the couches. I offer them a nod with a smile and find myself scanning the room for any sight of him but I find none.

"First of all. Felix is your best friend and second I slept late I'm sorry." I spin his chair around. He crosses his hands, keeping his face straight. "I'm here aren't I?" I pout.

He lets out a breath. "Fine, you're forgiven." He says and I grin at him, satisfied.

"I swear sometimes you guys act like a married couple." Jisung appears at my side passing Chan some papers.

I elbow him playfully at which he laughs. "What are you guys working on?" I ask, making eye contact with Jeongin, across the room. He offers me a small smile, and I can't help but smile back. I didn't want to admit it but when he left yesterday, my small apartment felt a tiny bit bigger and a little more empty. It's been a while since I enjoyed someone's company that much.

"We've finally finished the song." Changbin stretches his hands. "So 4 more to go."

"Oh my god, can I hear it?" I say getting excited.

"Sure. Hold on a sec" Chan nods. I turn around walking towards the couch to sit with the guys when the door opens.

"Hannie, I couldn't find apple juice anywhere, so I grabbed orange juice instead." Minho enters the studio, holding a bottle of orange juice. He stops in his tracks, as we stand almost face to face, my expression probably mirroring his. He seems a bit lost, definitely not prepared to see me but he recovers quickly, eyes blinking the shock away and face shifting into his usual bored-looking expression.

"Why are you here again?" He sighs.

I blink back at him, forcing myself to look away, and forcing the memories of the last time we saw each other that immediately rush into my mind with only a glance at his face, away. His tone was expected honestly, but I was kinda hoping that something would have changed between us. Nothing much, nothing major, but just a little something.

"Who's Hannie?" I clear my throat, looking at the guys.

"Oh, I'm Hannie." Jisung grabs the bottle from Minho. "My last name's Han."

"Oh." I nod a few times, focusing my eyes on him as I feel Minho staring at me, not moving. "That's cute. Can I call you Hannie too?"

"No, you can't,"  Minho mumbles and walks past me, taking a seat on the couch. Clearly, nothing has changed.

"Where's my coffee sunshine?" Jeongin grins at me, changing the subject, completely and I can't help but I get a feeling that he somehow sensed my discomfort.

"Shit." I slap my forehead. "I completely forgot, I'll go grab one right now."

"What coffee?" Changbin looks between us, confused. From the way everyone's looking at us I'm guessing that Jeongin didn't tell them that we hang out yesterday. I make eye contact with Minho, waiting for Jeongin to speak up. For some reason, I can't bring myself to say anything.

"Oh, Y/n and I hang out last night."

Minho's face immediately twitches.

"I met her when I went out to grab a few beers, and since we both had nothing to do we went back to her place and watch a movie."

The words make him inhale a deep breath through his nose. His tongue makes a circle on the inside of his cheek and the over his teeth, while he slowly leans forward, resting his hands on his knees. I can't help the small smirk that sneaks into my lips and the satisfaction that I feel seeing him trying to contain his annoyance. His eyes are completely still, focusing on me, not even blinking. And then, in a split second something shifts, as if a flame of anger passes through them, and then it's gone, leaving only a small smile on his dark pink lips. A dark smile that sends chills down my spine and makes my pulse raise in a fucking second. It's almost like something crossed his mind cause he drops my gaze and leans back taking his bottom lip between his thumb and index finger.

I clear my throat. "Yeah and h-he paid so, I offered to buy him coffee today." My face feels hot and Minho's eyes snap back to mine when he hears me shutter. I thought that I had the upper hand but right now I feel completely and utterly controlled by him. His eyes shine in the most challenging way.

Come on, Y/n focus.

"Chan, do you want a coffee?" I turn to him.

"Yes, please." He throws his head back.

"Great, I'll be right back." I move towards the door, but his voice stops me dead in my tracks.

"I'm coming, I want on too."

"I'll grab it for you, you don't have to come." I mumble, but he's already off the couch and walking towards me.  

"I'll help you carry them." He says and it's not until his back is fully facing the rest of the guys that he lets his expressionless face fall into a smirk.

Fuck me.

"Minho grab one for me too." Jisung smiles and Minho lifts his eyebrows at me, the smirk not leaving his face. I sigh and walk out the door, not waiting for him. I can already feel the sweat building on my palms, my stomach turning and my heart rate rising but I continue to walk down the hall. I hear the studio door close and Minho's footsteps approaching me. Fast, maybe too fast. And then the air is knocked out of my chest as he grips my jacket and pulls me backwards so hard that my back colliding with his front was almost audible.

His sharp laugh vibrates on my back. "A movie huh?" He says, his voice sounding almost careful. As if he's trying to control himself. And that gives me a little boost. I take a breath collecting myself and masking my face. I turn to look at him, not moving my body.

"And wine" I add, shaking his grip off, and continue to walk, acting unbothered when in reality my whole back is on fire. Burning, from his touch and his breath against my neck

It takes him a second but he catches up and appears right beside me. "You're really testing my patience," He says so low, that it sounds like a growl.

"How so?" I keep my voice, loud and steady. "Why do you care?"

"I don't." He sharply laughs, shaking his head.

I break into a chuckle. "Oh my god, you're so entertaining." His head snaps my way so hard, that I'm surprised it didn't break as we keep walking, exiting the building. It's pretty clear that there's something between us, but of course, we're gonna go into fucking circles.

"Watching you use Jeongin, to get my attention is what's entertaining. You're trying too hard."

"I'm not using anyone." I scoff. "I like Jeongin, that's why I hang out with him."

"Hang out all you want with him." His face turns dark. "Just make sure that I don't find out  if he laid a finger on you in a non-friendly way 'cause then I won't be that much entertaining angel." My heart does a little jump at the use of the nickname. It's the second time he calls me that and it tickles my ears in the most attractive way.  The boys always use nicknames for me and Emma. Babe, baby, princess. I've heard them all, but none of them really stick out to me.  

Angel. None's ever called me that before.

I stop in my tracks, his tone and words forcing anger out of me. He flashes me a devilish, satisfying grin.  "Dude you're-" His eyes flicker to something behind me, his whole expression shifts, and suddenly my words disappear down my throat as the wind gets knocked out of my chest. In a swift motion, his hand wraps around my waist, making me crash into his body. I see black, my face buried in his chest and all I hear is a car honking as it drives away alongside my own heartbeat. I look up, so hesitantly, still holding my breath.

"Fucking asshole." He curses, following the car with his eyes, and then looks down at me. Concern. It's concern written all over his slightly wide eyes.

"Are you okay?" He brings his hand to the side of my head, searching my face, eyes moving everywhere, all over my face and body. I let out the breath I was holding and finally inhaled again, the air in my lungs hitting me like a train, almost burning me from the inside. 'I'm fine' I want to say but the words won't leave my mouth. I keep staring at him, my body freezing in his hands completely. I go numb and all I can hear is the sound of my own heartbeat.

His grip on my waist tightens. "Y/n."

I try to take another breath but it's hard. My stomach tightens and I can feel the unsettling feeling of panic making its way through my body. My ears start ringing and I tear my eyes away from his face, looking around, trying to focus on something. Anything.

"Hey," He cups my face with both of his hands, forcing my eyes back on him. "Focus on me yeah? Look in my eyes." His whispers in a soft voice. I exhale and try to take breaths from my nose. But the lump in my throat grows and my eyes begin to water. No, I won't cry again. I'm sick of this, this feeling of pure panic and inability to control my own mind. But the memories come rushing back, and suddenly I'm 13 again, covered in blood, screaming my lungs out. And it hurts. It hurts my brain and my heart so much that I suck a breath and bury my face in his chest. I feel him freezing, going still but it takes him only a few seconds for his arms to wrap around me.

I let out a silent sob, almost inaudible but his arms tighten even more. His hand brushed my hair softly before sliding down to my back, comforting me silently. As though he understood. As though he cared.

It felt like minutes passed but we stayed like this, glued to each other as his vanilla scent consumed me the more I buried my face into his chest, and slowly I felt like I could breathe again. But I didn't pull away. And he didn't as well. His arms felt good around me. So good, that it made my heart beat faster for a completely different reason.

I slowly lift my head, his big eyes, softer than ever looked down at me.

"I'm sorry." I pull my arms away slowly, unwrapping myself from him as the realization of what happened hit me almost as hard as that car was about to. "I'm so sorry." I flinch further away.

"Stop apologizing. " He shakes his head and takes a large step forward, closing the gap between us. He tilts my face to him, his eyes searching mine.

I wanna freeze time and keep this moment. This moment, that he's not being a dick, that he's not ignoring me, that his face is not hard and his eyes are soft, and I slowly realize that I want more moments like this with him, I wanna keep the feeling of his hands on me and the weird sense of safety that comes with it.

"Yeah." I snap back to reality. "I'm-" I clear my voice. "I was in a car accident a few years ago." The words come out before I can stop them "I'm sorry. It just happened so fast." I add, laughing awkwardly.

"Oh," Something flashes in his eyes and his hands slowly drop from my body. "I understand." He nods his head to himself a couple of times, not saying anything else. He lifts his eyes to mine, no words come out of his mouth but I feel like his gaze is silently questioning me if I wanna talk about it. I chew on my bottom lip, shaking my head lightly and trying to look anywhere else. I'm grateful that he doesn't press the matter further, not that I was expecting him to start any sort of conversation for anything.

"Come on let's go." I turn around and begin to walk. His hand comes around my waist once again, pushing me to the inner side of the sidewalk.

"Sidewalk rule." He smiles.

.

.

.

.

"Look who's back for his second coffee of the day already." A girl with long. blond hair and big round glasses say as we reach the counter of the coffee shop.

"Hey, Maddie." Minho smiles at her and she smiles back. I stand beside him awkwardly staring at the menu, in front of me, even though I know exactly what I'm getting. "I love your hair today." He complements her and I almost snorted out loud. I wanna laugh at the way he speaks to her, I've never heard him use this tone or words to anyone.

"What can I get you? " She tugs a piece of hair behind her ear and looks at him through her glasses. I try not to roll my eyes at her classic move. Her focus stays completely on him, not even acknowledging me, standing right next to him.

"Can I have 3 iced Americanos, an iced latte, and..." He turns to me, leaning closer, and puts his hand on the counter, on the other side of my hips, kind of trapping me between his hands.

"What do you want angel?" He says close to my ear, making the blood rush into my cheeks. The girl's face visibly drops and I feel a spark of satisfaction.

"Um," I try to find my voice. "I'll have an iced latte as well." I smile at the girl, nevertheless.

She looks between us and nods with a smile. "Coming right up." When she leaves to make our order, I push Minho away, glaring at him and he laughs under his breath.

"Jealousy doesn't look good on you."

I roll my eyes. "I'm not jealous stupid. I'm uncomfortable." I pull my credit card out of my pocket.

"I'm paying." He says.

"No way. I offered to get coffee."

"I don't care." He steps in front of me, placing both of his hands on the counter.

"Fine. Then I'll pay for Jeongin's and my coffee and you can pay for the rest." I offer, trying to squeeze my way back to the counter.

"There you go" The blonde girl comes back with our coffees.

"Thank you, Maddie." Minho nods with a smile. He grabs the 3 Americanos. "Y/n, can you grab the resto for me?"

"Yeah, sure." I grab the other two but before I have time to do anything he places his phone in front of the little machine and I hear the familiar 'blink' from apple pay. "See you, tomorrow." He smiles at her.

"You're not buying him a damn coffee." He says inches away from my face and then walks out of the coffee shop.

We made our way back to the studio in almost complete silence but I was too lost in my thoughts to realize. He seemed in his head as well, cause whenever I would steal glances at him as walked, he didn't look at me once. I would kill to know what he was thinking. Or what he thinks about me in general.

.

.

.

" You have a beautiful voice." I turn to Jisung, with a genuine smile. Chan played me their song and I must say that I'm completely shocked. It's amazing how all of their voices blend in perfectly together.

His cheeks turn pink. "I sound okay."

"Oh my god," Minho rolls his eyes. "Take a compliment for once."

Jisung buries his face in his hands, blushing even more. I let out a giggle and try to take his hands off of his face. I hear Minho release a breathy laugh, drawing my attention. He's staring at Jisung with a small smile on his lips, his face is relaxed and his eyes hold a softness that I don't usually see in them. Their friendship is really interesting to me. Somehow I'm interested in anything that involves him. I have this urge to just unravel him and learn every little detail about him. Maybe cause he's been a mystery to me all this time or maybe because I'm simply drawn to him in a way that I can explain and absolutely hate.

"Seungmin, Jeongin, and Minho are the vocalists. I just help sometimes." He mumbles with a shy smile.

"I offered to change spots." Minho says.

"First of all, you can't rap to save your life."

"Bullshit" Minho scoffs.

"And second," Jisung continues "Your voice is too good to waste."

"Aww," I place a hand over my heart. "You're too sweet, I can't"

"What can I say?" He shrugs. " I am a pretty sweet guy."

I take a deep breath, getting myself ready. "So you're a vocalist? I haven't heard you sing yet." I turn to Minho. This is the first time I address him in a conversation, without trying to pick a fight, so this can go both ways.

His posture remains relaxed and his small smile from before grows into a smirk. "I haven't seen you dance yet."

Some tension rolls off of me. "That will not happen."

"Then you won't hear me sing."

I narrow my eyes on him. "You know I can just ask Chan to play me the song you recorded last time right? Your demo specifically."

His smirk grows more. "And you know that I know where you practice?" He shoots back. "Right?"

"Shut up." I shake my head.

He lets his lips turn into a smile. His teeth are exposed to me for the first time. His smile lights up his whole face and I let my eyes admire him a bit.

"Y/n?" Chans calls.

"Yeah?"

He keeps his eyes on Minho for a few seconds before speaking. "I think we need to talk to Hyunjin," he says in an unsure tone.

"What?" I straighten up. "What do you mean?"

"Check his insta story and the group chat." he says staring at his phone. I pull out my own phone and open Instagram to check his story.

"He's listening to that song..." Chan sighs, making eye contact with me.

"What song?" Jisung leans closer to me, trying to take a look.

"And he's spamming the group chat..." I mutter.

"And what about it?" Minho leans in as well, trying to hide his interest.

"It's his break-up song.." Chan sighs. "I'm going."

"No," I get up. "I think it's better if I go."

I grab my bag and my jacket. "Okay, but text me." Chan says.

"I will."

.

.

.

.

.

.

He buries his face further into my arms as he sobs uncontrollably. For as long as I know him, I have never seen Hyunjin cry like that, he's a mess. When I walked into his room, I found him curled into a ball, under layers of blankets, staring at the ceiling with bloodshot eyes.

I smooth his messy blonde hair, trying to calm him down. "I'm going to kill her." I say through my teeth.

He sniffs. "How can she be so fucking fake?"

"I don't know." I honestly answer, shaking my head. They'd been with each other for almost a year now, she looked head over heels for him. Hyunjin went over to her dorm to surprise her and he caught her fucking some other dude.

"Wait, who was the guy?" The question that I had totally forgotten to ask, suddenly pops up in my mind.

He lifts his head to look at me through his wet lashes. "One of Jackson's friends."

I tense up. "What?" My voice comes out louder than I intended.

He nods his head. "Yeah, I swear once I stop crying, I'll beat the shit out of him." He says through sniffs.

"I'll do it for you, don't worry." I clench my jaw. " God, I fucking hate him and his whole group." Even when Jackson and I were dating, I never really got along with his friends. They were all just a bunch of stupid fuckboys with absolutely zero respect towards anyone.

"Actually, I have to tell you something." He hesitantly says.

"I don't like the sound of that."

"Well," He thinks for a second and I feel myself already getting annoyed. "Remember when I told you that I'll ask around for the club we were talking about? For New years? The one that has live performances?"

"Yeah.." After a lot of fighting and back and forth, we decided that on New Year's Eve, we'll stay at the frat until midnight and then go to this super popular club that everyone is talking about around campus. It's going to have live performances by unknown artists. Many people say that Drake and Jack Harlow are 2 of them. The problem is that we don't know how we're getting in.

"Um," He pauses.

"Oh my god, Hyunjin just say it."

"Jackson's uncle owns the club." He finally says.

I groan, blurring my face into my hands. "That's just fucking great."

"So we can't beat them up just yet. " He jokes.

Jackson is incredibly famous around campus and his career is pretty much set already thanks to his father's connections to the music industry. To be honest, he is talented but everything has been handed to him, he never really tried for anything.

"Fuck" I sigh.

"Yeah, fuck."

[madman479r]

Peter brings home a stray

Felicia let out a tired sigh as she entered her apartment, well, her and Peter's apartment. She wasn't going to let her spider live in that festering shithole he called an apartment so she invited him to live with her at her place.

Anyway, Felicia stepped foot in her home and stretched, feeling the tension around her muscles leave along with the relieved sigh she gave out.

Only then did she notice 'Peter' in the kitchen, his back to her, but his suit was different.

Instead of the red and blue tights, it was red all over and he wore what looked like a light blue hoodie over it with torn off sleeves and a larger spider emblem across the torso. He also had a large belt around his waist and ankle pouches.

It seemed like he had yet to notice her so she leaned on the kitchen doorway and admired the view, specifically the ass.

"Hmm, Spider. Trying a new look?" She asked, breaking the silence.

'Peter' spun around and looked at her with wide eyes, as if he was caught somewhere he shouldn't be. "Uh...?" He dumbly muttered, sounding confused on what to say or do.

Felicia didn't pay much mind, walking over with a sway of her hips. "Not my choice of style, think it should have some black, but as long as it shows off that spectacular behind, I'm all for it." She smirked.

'Peter's' eyes darted all over, backing away like a cornered animal, still at a loss for words "i-i-I- uuuuuh!"

Felicia started to wonder what was wrong with her boyfriend and leaned into him. "What's wrong? Don't tell me I still get you all worked up and flustered." Felicia whispered into 'Peter's' ear.

The sound of the bathroom door opening and a familiar voice made the woman pause dead in her tracks. "Oh. Hey, Felicia!"

That voice was familiar when it shouldn't be because the owner of that voice was right in front of her.

Felicia slowly turned around to see... Peter by the kitchen door.

Felicia looked in front of her again and saw 'Peter'.

Looked back behind her and saw Peter.

In front of her. 'Peter'.

Behind her. Peter

She did the motion a few more times before looking at the Peter in the doorway and calmly said. "Peter... what the fuck?"

Peter, if that even who the fuck he was, noticed the other 'Peter' and his eyes widened. Not in confusion or fear, but understanding.

"Oh! Yeah I was waiting for you to get here but I needed the bathroom, just my luck you get home when I'm busy." Peter joked and cleared his throat as he noticed his girlfriend's unamused face.

"Uh, Felicia, meet my clone. Ben Reilly." Peter introduced.

Felicia turned back to this 'Ben' who stood there, mouth agape and speechless.

Felicia stared at the clone for a few minutes, not knowing what to say. She nearly kissed someone who wasn't Peter. Doesn't matter if it was clone, that was unacceptable in her eyes.

Her eyes wandered to his hair and Felicia knew exactly what to do.

*10 minutes later.*

Peter stood outside the bathroom door, listening in as the taps ran water and mist came out from under the door. Ben's pained grunts heard over the running water. "Please! Please God have mercy!" His clone begged.

"Felicia, go easy on him! He doesn't deserve this!" Peter urged.

Inside the bathroom, Felicia had a stern look on her face as she scrubbed Ben's head, holding the clone in place even as he tried to escape her claws. A open pack of blonde hair dye sitting close by.

"Not making that mistake again. Not making that mistake again." Felicia repeatedly muttered to herself, scaring Ben all the more.

***Omake***

Felicia sat on her sofa watching TV, it was one of those nights she just wanted be a couch potato. Besides, Peter was patrolling with Ben tonight, so it wasn't like he was alone.

It took a while, but Felicia had grown used to seeing Ben around. She couldn't very well tell Peter to get rid of him, not when Ben just reminded her of Peter too much and Peter had considered the clone his brother. The pair even managed to help Ben get a place to live, which Peter visited frequently to check up on his brother.

Ben was just confused about who he was, sure he had Peter's memories but he was like a lost, uncertain child in a big scary world and Peter, bless his heart, wasn't going to let his brother be all alone like he was.

Ben even helped them out a lot, it paid off having two spider-men, allowed Peter to be able to relax and slow down.

Yeah. Felicia decided that Ben was a good thing in their lives.

The sound of the balcony window door sliding open altered her on Peter's arrival, so she got up from the couch and turned to greet her boyfriend...

Only to once again see two Spider-men standing before her, one was her boyfriend as evidenced by the red and blue spandex.

But the other wore a mostly red suit but was black around the shoulders, collar and mask with ruby red lenses.

Peter removed his mask with a smile. "Felicia! I'd like you to meet my other clone, Kaine!" He excitedly introduce as the other spider-man removed his own mask.

His face was a lot less friendly, having what looked like a permanent frown on his face along with a scar that ran across his face, starting from the right side of his forehead and down diagonally towards his left chin.

Felicia stared at Kaine for a few seconds before heading towards her bedroom, only to re-emerge with a electric shaver in hand. "We can do this easy or hard. What would you prefer?"

"Felicia!" Peter cried out.

"Try it." Kaine growled.

"Kaine!" Peter exclaimed.

*20 MINUTES AND STRUGGLING LATER*

Kaine looked at himself in the mirror, running a hand over his now buzz cut hair. "... Damnit. It looks cool." He hated to admit.

[kimbappykidding]

When Johnny brings you into his life, Taeil decides the strong feelings he has for you are hate but is that really why you have such a hold over him?

You were a solo artist for SM and had become popular through your show where you interviewed kpop idols. You and Johnny knew one another and were friendly but it was only once he came on your show that you properly became friends. You exchanged numbers and started hanging out, becoming close friends. Johnny loved your energy and found you so fun. His members started teasing him but Johnny assured them there was nothing romantic going on and once they saw you together they believed him. The two of you were clearly just a close duo and nothing more. However, one member was too preoccupied with disliking you to notice.

While most of the members had spoken to you Taeil had not but that didn't stop him from disliking you. The second he saw you he knew you wouldn't get along and he did nothing to try and overcome this irrational dislike. He openly embraced it and used any small coincidence as proof you were not his kind of person. Nobody ever noticed Taeil's aversion to you because he typically avoided you as much as he could but one night he couldn't do that because you'd come to him.

You and Johnny had gone out with some friends for drinks but everyone went home before you were ready to call it a night so you came back to Johnny's dorm to continue the festivities and started getting his members to join you. The guys all liked you and didn't need much persuading but Taeil was firmly against the idea and stormed away before the guys could try and convince him to stay and drink with you all.

Everyone shrugged figuring Taeil just didn't want to drink tonight and was fine with that. Then an hour later he returned and he did not look impressed. He marched right up to you and told you, you were being too loud. You frowned and then laughed "Johnny he thinks this is loud" you said in English and Johnny burst out laughing. Taeil wasn't fluent and couldn't tell what you'd said but figured you were mocking him. So he turned his back on you "Johnny can you take your friend home? She's drunk and annoying". You smirked "annoying? Why am I annoying?". "You're too drunk to reason with" he replied and you smiled.

The fastest way to get you to sober up was for a man to claim you were being stupid or silly or emotional. Johnny knew this and also smiled to see how your posture transformed and you fixed Taeil with a look. "Why don't you go, head, shoulders knees, toes whatever your name is I can never remember it". The members all laughed and Taeil sighed "wow so original". "Awww are you just upset? Is that it? Is that why you're lashing out at us for having some fun?". "No I find you annoying and want you to leave". You shrugged "well I'm not your guest I'm Johnny's. You share this place and you're the only person with a problem with me". "How do you know they're not just too polite to say it?" Taeil asked. You looked over at the guys who were all smiles and back to Taeil "does that look like the faces of guys who hate me and want me to leave?" you gave it a few seconds and then sarcastically replied "no it doesn't, does it?". The guys all burst out laughing and Taeil rolled his eyes "whatever I'm the only sane one" and stormed away. He went back to his room and even though the music and noise were considerably lower, he decided he officially hated you.

Johnny had no idea you and Taeil would have such strong reactions to one another when he introduced you. Johnny liked you and figured his members would too but Taeil had a very strong negative response to you and there seemed to be nothing you could do to fix it. The two of you had lots in common and should get on so it made zero sense!

The next morning the house was quiet and Taeil figured he'd be able to use the kitchen and flee back to his room. No such luck, you were in there when he walked in cooking. He sighed and went to leave when you called out to him "hey wait I'm almost done...Johnny's in a pretty bad state so I've got some hangover stuff" you explained. Taeil rolled his eyes "well aren't you a nice friend" he replied sarcastically and you frowned. "Look I know we got off on the wrong foot last night and I'm sorry for upsetting you. I just get angry when guys talk to Johnny like he's my minder or presume things about me that's why I snapped at you...I'm sorry for my actions and I don't dislike you. I'm happy to put it all behind us if you are". You held out a hand for him to shake and Taeil looked at it and then shook his head "I don't think so" and he breezed past you. You froze watching him "so what, you hate me just because of last night?". "I think many people in my position would". "But you started it!" you laughed "and I'm trying to get past it but you won't, why?". "Has it even occurred to you that I just don't want to be your friend?" Taeil asked. "I wasn't asking you to be my friend" you replied sharply "I'm Johnny's friend so we'll be seeing each other around. I just wanted us to be civil...that's all". Taeil shrugged "well you can't always get what you want Y/n now run along". You looked at him and then shook your head "you're so immature" and waltzed out. Taeil's hands were shaking and he could feel the blood pumping around his body. There was just something about you that rubbed him up the wrong way and he hoped he'd never have to see you again.

Spolier Alert: He saw you a lot more!

Johnny had overheard the conversation and was not happy. You didn't seem too upset by it but he was still annoyed at his member and couldn't get why Taeil was being so rude! You'd apologised and tried to make amends but he just wouldn't have it. So Johnny thought he'd make sure Taeil saw you as much as possible.

Johnny invited you to any parties they threw, any events, any game nights, pizza nights, film nights...pretty much anything that wasn't exclusively their group you were invited to. Taeil never actually confronted Johnny on this, he just behaved passive-aggressively when you were around but you hardly even noticed. You were very skilled at pretending someone just didn't exist and that was the treatment Taeil got. Johnny figured it was fitting given the boy's immaturity and loved how all his members always flocked to you making Taeil the odd one out.

One weekend NCT threw a party to celebrate their debut anniversary and you came along. It was a very good night and things got a little crazy. There had been a lot of people over and so Taeil had made sure he was away from you at all times meaning he had a good night...but missed out on some things.

The guys were all sat recovering in the kitchen the following morning, trading stories and Taeil heard Jungwoo say something to Jaehyun about texting you but Jaehyun shook his head "it was just a one-night thing". "Wait what?" Taeil said loudly and everyone turned to look at him. "Jaehyun, did you hook up with Y/n?" Taeil asked Jaehyun who hesitated slightly but nodded "yeah". "Ewww why?" Taeil asked and Jaehyun paused "because she's hot" he said laughing. "You have really bad taste" Taeil said and Johnny raised an eyebrow "or you do?". "Yeah Y/n's hot" Yuta said and all the boys agreed. Taeil rolled his eyes "whatever, guess I'm the only one immune to her" and that's when Johnny got it.

"Oh my god but you're not are you?" he said and Taeil frowned "I just said...". "I know but it makes so much sense...you're attracted to Y/n and that's why you're acting this way...isn't it!" Johnny said. Taeil's heart began to race and got even faster as all the boys began to nod agreeing with Johnny. "It does make sense" Doyoung said and Taeil glared "no it doesn't! I am not attracted to Y/n in the slightest and have no idea where you got that idea" he told Johnny. Johnny smiled "then why are you blushing" and Taeil clutched his cheeks "because you're trying to embarrass me, not everyone likes your friend you know! So stop trying to force her on us!" Taeil cried and stormed away. "He's totally crushing on Y/n" Haechan said and Taeil heard it and screeched "no I'm not!" making them all laugh. "Definitely" Mark nodded.

Now that Johnny had cracked what was going on it became really obvious why Taeil was acting like this, even if the boy wouldn't admit it himself. All Taeil knew was whenever he saw you he felt insecure and vulnerable and disliked you for that. It wasn't like a crush where he wanted the girl to be impressed with him or talk to him, it was the opposite. He didn't want you to even look at him because that made him feel weird so how could it possibly be a crush? However, none of the guys would listen to that though and just teased him mercilessly.

The only good thing was they hadn't told you so you were still switching between ignoring and hating him which worked for Taeil. If you started tormenting him and saying he had a thing for you he thought he'd genuinely implode. So Taeil just carried on avoiding you and his members didn't directly provoke him with their "discovery".

A month later Nct had a comeback and they were meant to be coming on your show again because it was so popular the first time when Johnny went on. It was planned for Johnny and Taeyong to go but they got stuck in another city when there was a crash on the motorway. Only two members didn't have anything planned that day. Doyoung and Taeil.

Doyoung agreed to it easily, he wasn't close friends with you but he liked you and it would be fun. Taeil however was a different story.

When Taeyong first called to tell him what the management wanted him to do Taeil hung up. Then Taeyong called back and explained more. Taeil was furious and ready to put his foot down when Taeyong begged him to do it. His leader looks so stressed and tired that Taeil paused. Taeyong offered to call you before and ask for a truce and do anything to make it easier for Taeil. Taeil hated when he felt responsible and told Taeyong he'd do it. Taeyong was so happy and thanked him so much that Taeil began to wonder what he'd have done if he'd said no.

Taeil arrived with Doyoung and felt really nervous to be on your home turf. Every time you'd squared off it had been at their dorm where Taeil felt more confident but here you called the shots and could do anything to him, especially once that camera was rolling. Taeyong had assured him you'd be professional but Taeil wasn't sure.

You didn't see Taeil and Doyoung until after the cameras started rolling which Taeil preferred. He didn't want to have to pretend to meet you and be happy about it twice. So when he did see you he was stage-Taeil and was all smiles and politeness.

The show started and there was clearly some awkwardness between the two of you but it didn't come across as you disliked each other or anything like that. More just two idols being professional and not getting too personal. Taeil found it was actually a lot less exhausting just reaction to your normally instead of actively hating you. That did slightly anger him because it made him wonder why he'd even picked his crusade against you in the first place and Taeil did not like questioning himself.

The show passed really quickly and once the show wrapped, you did your closing catchphrase and then the cameras shut off. You thanked Doyoung and Taeil for coming and mentioned how you were especially grateful because they stepped in. Taeil didn't know why you were still being nice to him now the cameras weren't on but figured you might want to pretend to be all nice in front of your staff. Well, he wasn't going to get a bad reputation for himself so he nodded and told you it was fine. Gave brisk but positive responses and then got ready to leave as soon as he could.

Of course, there was a mix-up with the cars though. Doyoung had to go right to another event and they only had one car. So the staff left with Doyoung and promised Taeil another car was on its way for him. He waited outside for 20 minutes but nothing. He called the managers but they were obviously somewhere with Doyoung because nobody answered. Taeil wasn't great with directions and wasn't too sure where he was, just that it was quite out of the way. He was debating what to do when you exited and spotted him.

You had all your bags so were clearly done for the day and were looking for your car when you spotted him. You both paused, wondering what to do and you looked around before coming over to him "hey, are you okay?". "Yeah I'm fine" he said colder than he meant but you just shrugged it off. "Has your car not come yet, it's getting late and dark". Taeil resisted the urge to say he'd worked those two things out for himself and shook his head "I think they might've gotten lost". You nodded "well I can try calling you one but it might take a while with it being a Friday night...how about I give you a lift? It'll be a lot easier". Taeil hesitated and you rolled your eyes "we don't even have to talk, it's just a ride". Taeil hesitated and then sighed "okay...thanks". You nodded and led him to your car which was parked on the corner.

Taeil hated to admit it, but your car was nice. Not only was it a good make and model but the car was tidy, clean and smelled lovely. If it was anyone else he would've complimented the heck out of their car but it was you so he felt like he couldn't. He put his seatbelt on and pretended not to be looking at what air freshener brand you used.

You drove to Taeil's house in silence except for the radio which you switched on and turned up high 10 seconds into the ride. You got to Taeil's house and pulled up outside. "Thank you" Taeil said and you nodded "no problem". Taeil unclipped his seatbelt and went to leave when he stopped. "Why did you give me a lift?" Taeil asked and you paused "what?". "You could've easily looked at me and walked the other way. You didn't have to bring me home so why did you?". You frowned "because you don't live far from me and I could see what had happened". "No I don't buy it, why did you really do it?" Taeil asked and you laughed "that's the truth!". "No you did it to feel high and mighty didn't you? To pretend to be the bigger person and make me look bad. Or to brag to Johnny and the others how you took the high road". You shook your head "look man you're really insecure and I have no idea what I stumbled on but I want no part in it". "Whatever" Taeil said "tell the guys whatever you want I don't care and this does not make you better than me!" and he stormed away.

Taeil went straight to his room when he got in and when the guys arrived back later and told him they had food he refused it and stayed in his room. He was waiting for Johnny or another to appear any second and berate him for his outburst at you or to make him feel bad but nobody appeared.

The next morning he went downstairs cautiously and jumped to see Mark, Jaehyun and Johnny in there but they all greeted him happily. Taeil thought he was in the clear until Johnny followed him into the hallway. "Hey I just wanted to say, thanks for yesterday". "What do you mean?" he asked and Johnny frowned "well I know you filled in for me and were probably reluctant to but you did it and Doyoung told me it went well. I asked Y/n too and she said you were both good guests so thanks for putting whatever it is you have aside". Taeil was shocked you hadn't run to Johnny like he expected and nodded "it's fine...I can be professional you know?". Johnny smiled "I know but I just wanted to say I appreciated your effort and can't wait to see the interview" and the tall boy left.

Your show had a tight turnaround and so the next week the episode aired and it did extremely well. It went viral and got the most views out of any of your videos. The members all congratulated Taeil and Doyoung for doing such a great job with all the changes and Taeil was surprised it was so popular...until he watched it. Either the editing was really good or the three of you did get along well. You and he seemed to bounce off one another well and were a lot more intuned than he realised.

Taeyong happened to come into his room while he was watching the episode and Taeil jumped but Taeyong smiled "don't worry I watch all my stuff back too, plus you should with this interview. It was really good". Taeil frowned "yeah which is odd". "Why? Because you don't get along?" Taeyong asked and Taeil nodded "I promised myself to behave for this interview and to be polite and social but thought it would come across as forced or fake but it doesn't". "Yeah it really doesn't" Taeyong agreed "did it feel forced when you were doing it?". Taeil shook his head "no not when I forgot everything that had happened between us... it kind of just felt normal". Taeyong nodded "well you're clearly not alone in that because Y/n seemed really responsive and receptive to you specifically". "She did?" Taeil asked and Taeyong nodded "definitely, it was nice to see actually. We don't like seeing you upset and even if it was for a 30-minute interview it was just good to see you both get along". Taeil went to comment when Taeyong held up his hands "I'm not saying you and Y/n have to be besties, I know there's a lot of hurt there which isn't going to vanish overnight. I'm just saying you seemed a lot less stressed". Taeil had to agree with that, it was hard forgetting everything between you but it was also hard holding onto it. "I just feel like...Y/n and I have gone too far in one direction to come back from". Taeil frowned "I know it might feel like that but I think you'd be surprised". Taeyong didn't want to push too far and patted Taeil's leg "I'm here if you ever need anything" and he left the room.

Taeil lay down with a sigh wondering if it wasn't too late. Did he want it to be past the point of return and delve into his hate of you or did he want some sort of friendship with you? Taeil couldn't even imagine what a friendship with you would look like. Every time he thought of you he thought it'd be as enemies, could there ever be a version of the two of you casually texting or waving to one another at award shows...Taeil didn't think so. Nothing about you was casual and he didn't think you'd do anything half measures. So Taeil figured you couldn't be friends but maybe you didn't have to be enemies. He was comforted by that thought and went to bed that night feeling at peace...only for him to have a dream about you that nobody would have about their friend or even enemy for that matter.

Taeil jolted awake covered in sweat, his heart racing rapidly and everything feeling tense. The images of you were still in his mind and he had to remind himself they weren't real, that hadn't happened but that didn't explain how he felt right now or why he'd dreamt that. he knew dreams didn't automatically mean anything but this one had. He couldn't hide from it because he was vividly disappointed when he woke up and it wasn't real...that you weren't in front of him. He wanted it to be real and he finally admitted he knew exactly how he wanted you. He didn't get how this would fit with his rivalry with you though and it was honestly too complex to think about. So he closed his eyes and let himself imagine he had you and fell back to sleep.

In the morning Taeil instantly recalled his dream last night and moved about tentatively, as if moving too quickly would announce to everyone the revelation he'd just been through. When he saw his members downstairs for breakfast he was worried they'd see right into his head and realise Johnny had been right all along. He felt as if he had a huge sigh above his head revealing what he dreamt you and him did together but as the morning passed with nobody bringing you up Taeil began to settle slightly...that didn't mean he stopped thinking about you though.

On the contrary, he couldn't get you out of his mind and found himself almost wishing for people to bring you up so he could hear about you. This persisted even days later and when his dreams about you continued he was torn between resisting them and not wanting them to stop. He wasn't sure what he even wanted besides you. Did he even want to be with you? Part of him thought maybe he just wanted you physically. To see you look at him with desire in your eyes rather than contempt or grab onto him and claim him for your own. Then another part of him knew he wanted way more than that. Taeil wanted those dreams to become a reality but it was all so messy and complicated. His negative feelings about you hadn't gone and his emotions were just competing at the point. He'd see you and get annoyed or turned on or upset or bashful. His head was a mess.

So when you appeared at the door one day Taeil was surprised, wondering slightly if this was a dream. "Erm hi?" you said when Taeil hadn't spoken for a while and he blinked "I was just surprised to see you, Johnny and Jaehyun aren't here". You smiled "Jaehyun?" and Taeil shrugged "what? I don't know if you're still seeing each other". "We're not and don't worry it's fine Johnny isn't here. He said I could borrow some chocolate. I'm making a cake". Taeil nodded and didn't know if to respond "I didn't ask" or "cool what for" so just decided not to speak and headed to the kitchen. "What sort of chocolate do you need?" Taeil asked and you shrugged "milk if you have it but any is fine really". Taeil started looking through the fridge but couldn't find any. "Let me check the cupboards" he said and you nodded and watched him go through each one. He hated having your eyes glued to him, judging him and it made him flustered. So when he got to Mark's messy cupboard he accidentally knocked a stack of tins over making them loudly clatter to the floor.

"Shit!" he said and rushed to pick them up and you came to help. "It's fine!" he said and you laughed "I can't help you pick up cans?". "I don't need you to help me" he replied and you rolled your eyes. "Don't act like you're not helping me just because it looks good. I know you hate me and always have so stop pretending to be nice to me! I don't need your pity I just need you to leave me alone!" he cried. You blinked "I'll leave you alone if you want me to I just need some chocolate and didn't realise you were the only one home". "Well maybe next time you should check!" Taeil replied curtly. "I will and actually I never hated you Taeil! I never spent my time thinking horrible about you like you seem to imagine I do" you said and Taeil figured that made total sense. Of course, he'd been obsessing over you while you never gave him a second thought. Taeil nodded "I mean of course, you had more important things to think about than me right? Hating me would require you to care about me". You frowned "so you want me to hate you?". "I don't know!" Taeil cried "all I know is for weeks I haven't been able to stop thinking about you and so when you turn around and say you don't care about me..." he sighed "I don't know what it makes me feel". "I never said I don't care about you just that I didn't hate you" you replied. "Yes, but you still didn't notice me like I did you and I didn't have the same effect on you as you did on me". "How can you say that when you don't know?" you asked and Taeil paused "what?". "You don't know the effect you had on me so you can't say it's different. So what effect did I have on you? Tell me and I'll tell you mine" you said and Taeil couldn't believe how even now, you were attractive to him. He could see the intensity in your face and he wanted you so bad. He was clueless as to how he hadn't recognised this feeling inside him from the start and so he just sighed and told you.

"Nobody's ever bothered me like you even though you remind me of lots of girls in my past. I've not had good experiences with girls like you". "Girls like me?" you asked and Taeil nodded "hot, confident girls who know they're sexy" he said "even though I'm attracted to girls like you they've always rejected me and so seeing you...it was a culmination of all that past hurt. Even though it wasn't you specifically I couldn't help but react to you because I was sure you were going to respond to me and I had to be first...I had to hurt you before you hurt me. If I hated you it wouldn't hurt so much but it didn't work. I just made a fool of myself and I still wanted you, I still want you" he said "and I've made a mess of everything. I'll tell Johnny everything and I promise to leave you alone from now on but please just don't tell the members. I wouldn't blame you if you did but I'm asking you out of the kindness of your heart to not but ultimately it's your decision".

You watched Taeil with an unreadable expression and he could imagine you telling him to fuck off and going and spreading it around the whole industry just like girls had done in his younger days but you didn't. "I won't tell anyone" you told him "but I haven't told you mine". Taeil blinked "your what?". "The effect you've had on me" you said "Taeil I never hated you but that doesn't mean I didn't feel anything for you" you said coming closer "the opposite actually, I've always thought you were hot". Taeil's jaw dropped "I'm sorry?". "You're hot Taeil" you said "I didn't like how you spoke to me or the way you acted but there was no denying you were good looking and I always got flustered around you". "But you always seemed so confident" Taeil said and you shrugged "I've got a great poker face and you're one to talk. I believed you hated me and that bothered me because out of all of Johnny's friends, I wanted you to like me the most...but I'm a defensive person. The second I felt you disliking me I responded but then I'd see you and want you to like me...just for you to react to me badly and I'd react back over and over again". Taeil shook his head "I'm so sorry Y/n I took my feelings out on you and that's not okay". You nodded "it wasn't but...I can find a way for you to make up for it" and Taeil paused because of the look on your face. "What are you suggesting?" he asked. You smiled "I think it'd be a waste of all those pent-up emotions if we didn't put them to good use" you said coming to stand right in front of him "what do you think?". Taeil blinked unsure if this was one of his dreams but no you were in front of him and you wanted him! He could see it clearly in your face and Taeil had no idea what to do or say. He could only manage a nod but you smiled "perfect".

You made the first move and brought your lips to Taeil's. Taeil shivered when you first touched him but then quickly his anxiety was replaced with excitement. He started kissing you back and getting bolder. Then when he realised you were reacting to him and enjoying what he was doing Taeil was ecstatic. Even in this, the two of you were passionate together and soon you were both becoming faster and more desperate. You separated long enough to assure Taeil the two of you could stop any time he wanted but the second he kissed you he knew he would only be wanting more. So he smiled and told you he wanted you and you smiled back. Taeil would never forget that beautiful look or how it made him feel. He felt like the greatest person alive and it was all because of you.

Afterwards, Taeil was struggling for words again. "I...wow...just wow" he said and you laughed "is that all you can say?". He laughed "I just never thought we'd actually be here after what I'd done. Thank you for giving me another chance". You shrugged "everyone deserves a second chance, but be a dick to me again and I will destroy you" you said deadly serious before smiling "okay?". Taeil nodded "yes of course. I will never treat you that way again! I'll treat you like an angel" and you smile hugging him "you don't have to treat me like anything special but just a human being would be good". Taeil nodded "of course" and hugged you to his chest "never less again".

You stayed in bed together but soon the house wasn't empty and as it filled Taeil became nervous about how to tell his members about this development. He was worried they'd all think he was a hypocrite and would lose respect for him. You disagreed and Taeil found it funny how now he just found it amusing rather than annoying. "Firstly it's none of their business what you do, secondly even if we weren't besties people can change and thirdly there was always this weird energy between us so they can't be too surprised". Taeil smiled as you said and you looked at him "what?". "Nothing just...yeah Johnny guessed I was into you like 2 weeks after we first met". "He did?" you asked and Taeil paused "he never told you?". "No he didn't!" you said annoyed and Taeil smiled "he was just being loyal" and you nodded "yeah I guess" softening before you bristled again. "So I say we just walk downstairs together and tell everyone to suck it". Taeil laughed and smiled watching you. Your energy was infectious and when you turned to him asking what he thought he shrugged "okay". "Really?" you asked "because if you'd prefer we wait to tell them that's okay". "No I think with you beside me I'll feel confident" Taeil said and you smiled "you're stronger than you think" you replied and kissed him. "If I start saying I'm strong will you kiss me like that more?" Taeil asked and you smiled "I'll kiss you however you want to be kissed now do you want to do it now or later?". "Now" Taeil said and you both got dressed and made your way downstairs.

Everyone was in the kitchen and Johnny spotted you before he saw Taeil. "Y/n! You never text me to tell me if you got the..." when he trailed off seeing Taeil with you. "Sorry we were together" you said purposefully and the room was quiet for a few seconds before everyone got it. "wait...what?" Mark asked and Haechan looked at you "why?". Johnny saw your expressions and smiled "together together?" he asked. You looked to Taeil who nodded "I guess you were right Johnny". Then the guys all got it and started cheering and teasing Taeil. You rolled your eyes at them but were smiling. You pulled Taeil towards the table and found a seat for the two of you together. "This all makes so much sense" Jungwoo said and Jaehyun nodded "why did it take you this long though?". Taeil shrugged "it was a journey but we're here now, right?" he asked and you smiled at him "right". "What is this exactly?" Yuta asked and everyone paused including you and Taeil because you hadn't discussed that yet.

Taeil looked at you and you looked back at him. Johnny went to change the subject when Taeil spoke "well we haven't decided that yet but I don't think it's too important at the moment". You smiled at him pleased he'd felt comfortable saying that and nodded "we like each other and that's the most important thing". "Damn straight!" Johnny yelled "now eat! You two more than anyone need your strength". You smacked Johnny's arm making him cry out and he pouted "does she treat you roughly like that Taeil?" and then he ran from the room because he correctly guessed you'd attack him.

You caught him in the next room and Johnny caught your hands stopping you from hitting him. "Hey I just wanted to say, I think this is really cool". You paused before nodding "I...yeah it is". "You're happy?" Johnny asked and you nodded. "He's apologised?" Johnny checked and you shot him a look "of course and I told him if he ever treats me like that again I'd destroy him". "That's my Y/n" Johnny smiled and you returned to the dining room together.

Taeil looked up as you entered together almost nervously as if Johnny would've convinced you to dump him but you smiled and Taeil relaxed. "Everything okay?" he asked when you sat next to him and you nodded "everything's fine with me how about you?". "I'm perfect" he smiled "for the first time in a while and I don't intend on letting anything change that anytime soon...including myself". You chuckled "so you don't want me to go away and leave you alone like you said earlier?". "Hell no!" he cried and you laughed. "Good" you smiled "because I'm not going anywhere". Taeil grinned because that sounded like heaven to him...and now he could finally admit that.

[meetmyothersouls]

Back to u 4 tonight ?

I have worked my ass off on this so I really hope you guys love it!

Back To You

Jonah Hauer-King x reader

Warnings: memory loss, being drunk, throwing up, not proof read

Chapter 4

Jonah's POV

I sit in the library, leaning against my desk. I'm lost in thought, many of them. One of which is the information Jorge just threw at me. I scoff out loud even though no one is around to hear it. The idea of him taking y/n from me is so disgusting to me, it makes me sick to my stomach. I let him walk away unscathed only because I don't want y/n's new opinion of me to turn into a negative one.

Y/n. Then my thoughts go to her. I'm suddenly overwhelmed with a mixture of sadness, longing and love for her. I want our old life back so badly it hurts. I look around the library. It was her favorite room. One, because of all the books. I used to joke that she loved the books in this room more than me. Two, because of all the times we made love in here. I believe there's not one surface left untouched by-

A soft tap on the door brings me out of my daydream. I stand up straight, no longer leaning on my desk. It's Haven.

"Sorry, I was just looking for y/n."

"She's not with you?" I ask, immediately worried.

"No...I thought she was with you."

"Shit," I mutter under my breath. "Well, she's gotta be somewhere in the house. She doesn't know how to get anywhere else," I say, mostly to calm myself down.

Haven and I make our way down the hall, she's not too familiar with the layout of our house either, so she checks the downstairs amongst the guests Val invited, while I check the other two floors of our house. I wait and save my panic for when I'm totally out of sight. I check her room first, then the nursery; the two rooms I know y/n has seen with her own eyes. When those turn up empty, I scour the rest of the house. By the end of my search, I'm flying down the stairs and practically knock Haven over when I reach the bottom floor.

"No luck?" I ask breathless.

"No, but someone mentioned they saw her heading out with Val. Any thoughts on where they could be?"

I groan out loud, "I have an idea or two."

Y/n's POV

I'm downing my fifth shot, Val, Jorge, and several other people I don't know are chanting my name. I've never been much of a drinker, but according to Val, her and I go out and have drinks all the time. She shows me my favorite shots and drinks that we used to get together all the time and, to my surprise, I really like them. I apparently, lean towards the fruity ones with pineapple and strawberry purees. The shots are very bitter and nasty, but they burn going down which I kind of like.

"Okayyyy," I half yell/half slur. "Okay! I think I'm done."

Jorge and Val are talking, deep in conversation with one another and all of a sudden everyone is way too fucking close to me. The room is spinning and my heart is racing. It's too hot, my clothes are too tight, and I'm in England. I run out of the pub and the cool, now almost evening air hits me.

"I'mjustgonnagoonawalk," I call out to Val as the door to the pub swings shut. I wave to her as I turn the corner. I have no idea where I'm going and it's clear to me in my mind, but it doesn't stop me from walking on. The last...how many days has it been? Has been a whirlwind of emotions and information. I'm married, I was pregnant, I live in England and write for an apparently very prestigious magazine according to Val. For some reason the married thing and the pregnant thing have me laughing. I poke at my stomach. It's a little flabby and the tiniest bit sore, it's evident that something was there. That's when I notice that I'm not even wearing a wedding ring. I immediately feel kind of bad because of it. Jonah really is a nice guy and he clearly cares about me. And...I mean...he's very easy on the eyes. He's got the prettiest slightly curly hair, the bluest eyes I've ever seen. His skin is like this permanent sun kissed color that just occurs naturally. I start to wonder what his hands would feel like on my body and I'm reminded about how he grabbed the small of my back on the stairs today. I giggle out loud and have to grab a streetlamp post to steady myself. I look up and I laugh even harder, because I see him walking right toward me. I point to him and wave. Then he sees me, and he starts running. I'm almost on my knees by the time he gets to me. Jonah grabs me and pulls me against him.

"Thank god," he says breathlessly.

"You are real!" I giggle.

"What?"

"Wot?" I imitate his adorable British accent.

"My god, y/n are you drunk?!"

"Yes, Jonah, it appears thatIam. Val and Jorge introduced me to some verygood drinks."

"Jorge?"

"Mhmm. Jorge." I start to walk and Jonah follows. I feel a bit better about walking now, since he at least knows where we're going.

"He didn't...try anything did he?"

"Pffft."

"Y/n, I'm serious."

"Me too. I wouldn't have let him anyway. You're way hotter than he is." I'm a few steps ahead of him and I start to cross the street.

"Whoa!" Jonah yells as he pulls my wrist. My back is against him now and I'm very aware of how his body feels pressed up against mine. I make an effort to press harder against him, and if he notices he doesn't let on, but I wish he did. "Y/n, you can't just walk into oncoming traffic, Darling."

"Darling?" I look up at him, but he's looking forward, his eyes focused on the crosswalk, but he's got the slightest smile on his face.

Jonah's hand is resting on my lower abdomen, holding me protectively. It gives me a flutter in my stomach that I'd normally try to push away, but don't have the mental capacity to right now. He waits for the cross walk to change and when it does, he moves his hand. That's when I grab it and run across the street. We bump into a couple that's walking our direction and I accidentally knock the woman's coffee out of her hands.

"Sorry, I'm so sorry!" Jonah calls over his shoulder as I pull him along.

I'm doubled over in laughter as we make it to the sidewalk while Jonah stands next to me, his hands on his hips in disbelief. His mouth hangs open adorably, as he looks at me like he's seeing me for the first time. Then he's laughing. Hard. It's the happiest I've seen him look since I woke up in that hospital room a few weeks ago.

"You're really a piece of work, you know that?" Jonah says.

"Oooooh, is that a park? Come on!" I take off again, dodging couples and dog walkers and people on mopeds and bikes. Then, I'm on grass it's slightly damp and I feel it through my canvas shoes. It reminds me of the parks in New York. In the distance there's a pond with a fountain in the middle and several swans swimming against a sunset. It looks like a painting.

Jonah finally catches up, his hands on his knees as he catches his breath. "Where is everyone?" I ask.

"Huh?"

"There's not a lot of people here."

"Ah, yes. They're all at home, most likely."

I'm so focused on the scenery in front of me I don't even look at Jonah. "But it's so beautiful."

"Yes. You are."

"What?"

Jonah's staring right at me when I whip my head around. He clears his throat and looks off into the distance. "Yes it is. You know it's funny you came here."

"Why's that?"

"Well," Jonah says, as he begins to walk, "this is where you like to come when you need inspiration for writing. Sometimes I'll find you here laid out on a blanket with a book or a laptop. One time, ahh maybe two years ago, I couldn't find you anywhere. You left your cell at home, I checked every bookstore in London and you were nowhere to be found. I was about to call the police, when I drove past the park and saw a tiiiiny figure way out in the middle of the field."

"Was it me?"

"Mhm. It was. You came out here to read and guess what you did?"

"What?"

"You fell asleep!"

"No way!"

"Yes! You had me worried sick," Jonah laughs. He's still looking out into the distance like he can see the memory in the skyline. And suddenly I feel terrible. I feel dizzy and lightheaded and sick to my stomach. Maybe it's all the alcohol or maybe it's because he clearly loves me so much and I can't recall all those feelings myself.

"You okay?" Jonah asks when he finally looks at me.

"Y-yeah, just need to sit down."

Jonah grabs my hand and leads me to one of the park benches. We sit down and my nausea calms down slightly.

"Jonah?"

"Hmm?"

"I'm sorry." I turn to face him and my breath hitches in my throat. His face is close to mine, much like when we were on the staircase today. He's so beautiful up close I just want to touch his face.

"What for?" Jonah whispers.

"For not being what I was before."

"You're still my y/n, memories or not. You're mine and I'm yours."

"But...but how could you still like me the same knowing I don't have the memories you do or..."

"Y/n, you are my wife. I love you. I'm sorry if that overwhelms you. You don't have to say it. I know you don't love me. Why would you? You don't know me. But I've got a month to make you fall in love with me again and I'll do whatever it takes to make that happen. And even if you never love me again," he swallows hard, and I can feel his breath on my lips as he sighs. His face is so close to mine. He licks his lips and I can't help but lean in. I press my lips against his. He kisses me back softly then pulls away, just as I expect him to.

"Y/n, I'm sorry I just...I want you to be in the right state of mind before I kiss you and-"

Jonah doesn't finish his sentence before I'm throwing up on the ground in front of us.

"Your shoes!"

"It's okay, don't worry about them," Jonah says as he's pulling my hair back. I throw up again and again until my vision goes out and I lose everything around me.

I wake up and it's daylight, but it must be early. I'm wearing new clothes, which is just and oversized t-shirt, and my shoes are off. I'm in the same bed that I slept in the night before. The room is filled with that early morning bluish hue. It's making the room feel cozy and soft and cool.

I sit up in the bed, still no memories...other than kissing Jonah, him rejecting me and then throwing up all over his shoes. I groan and run my hand down my face just as the bathroom door opens and Jonah walks out wearing only a towel around his waist, his hair and body are wet from the shower he must have just taken.

And suddenly I'm filled with even more regret than before.

Tags: @danielabetancourth @luna2034 @wandamaximoffbae @twinkledinkleg-blog @anonyymoouussssss @nonsensical-nonsence @paramorelvrr @thedonswife13 @miniemonie2001 @jonahhauer-kingg

✨ If you want to be added to my Jonah taglist or I missed you on the tag list please comment here!✨

[zeroducks-2]

Omg writing trick or treat, YES!!! TRICK OR TREAT

Hey Danny 🫶💕

You get a snippet from an old fic so maybe it'll get me to pick it back up :D It's a Mad Max inspired omegaverse AU, and Dick is pregnant with twins and has been "acquired" by Slade's pack. It's a very violent world and Dick has been very lucky he ended up here from the slave trade, and he knows.

ask game here!

«Are you feeling unwell?» He asks without hiding the concern in his voice. «What can I do?»

«Stay…?» Dick replies groggily, moving on his side. 

Given his position he seems to be in pain, maybe he’s cramping. Grant can’t smell blood though, which is good.

He crawls in the nest wrapping himself against the Omega's back, slightly nuzzling his neck.

«Do you want to see Doc?» He asks, caressing the edge of his belly. There’s a tenseness to it, he can tell immediately. Dick slightly flinches but then purrs, reaching back to press into him. 

«No doctors.» He mumbles, shaking his head. «I’m okay. The pups are acting up.» He does cock his head to show the neck but clearly does it with some hesitation. «Don’t worry about me, hm.»

«You clearly are an older sibling.» Grant chuckles and scents him before purring back. «What if I called Slade?»

Dick smiles and turns a little, nosing his chin as he returns the scenting. «I understand you and Joey have been trying to talk to him for a while, with no luck.» He says, giving him a tired look. «He must be really busy. No point in bothering him.»

«Knowing him, he is trying to avoid us. But I don't think he is going to say no to you if you want to meet him. He does like you.»

«Hm.» Dick purrs and shows his neck again. He’s too cold to the touch, Grant gauges. «Why is he avoiding you then?»

«I think it's because he's afraid we'll convince him to take care of you.» Grant smiles and hugs the other a bit more tightly. «Since Rose's mom's passing he has kept more to himself, but I think it will be good for him to have you around.»

Dick holds onto his arm in a sort of hug. «I know I need a mate for the pups. It would be better for them, help them grow healthier… I’d have more chances of surviving childbirth.» He brings the bedding he carries around to his mouth in a reflexive gesture. It must have lost all traces of Slade’s smell or almost by this point. «But I know you’re not ready for that. And also you’ve got Joey.»

«Joey's my brother.» Grant replies out of habit. «I cannot speak for dad, but I think he's just hoping stuff between you and I will work out… or something like this. I think he's going to mate you if you show up in his nest. He's a weak old man after all.»

«Okay.» Dick replies more quietly. His hand finds the back of Grant’s and gently strokes it with a thumb. «I’m a little scared, you know. I’ve never had a mate.»

«Me neither.» Grant smiles and kisses his temple. «Pop had two though, and he took care of pregnant maidens already. He's going to be nice to you.»

Dick purrs at the kiss and nods, still somewhat clinging to him. «Okay.» He repeats, seeming to try and convince himself. «What if he doesn’t want me? Can I, huh… can I come back to you and Joey?»

«Of course.» As much as Grant doesn't feel really ready to take care of pups, he does like Dick a lot and it’s obvious that Joey does too. «If Slade says no, you'll stay with us. We'll take care of you.»

«Okay.» Dick says for the third time with a longer sigh, his chest slightly vibrating through his purring. «But you don’t have to mate me if you don’t want to. Joey surely wouldn’t. I’ll be alright anyway.»

Grant purrs back and caresses him. «I'll take you to pop's place tonight.» He just says. «How does it sound?»

«I’d like that.» The little thing replies even more quietly, snuggling more into his chest and pressing the cloth to his face. The physical comfort seems to have eased him a little, enough for him to rest, but he does still smell distressed.