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storiesforallfandoms · 3 years ago

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i don’t need your help ~ jace herondale;shadowhunters

word count: 2524

request?: yes!

“Alec Lightwood or Jace Herondale (either one works) smut? If you're comfortable with writing for shadowhunters, ofc <3″

description: after a run in with a demon that almost turns bad, a fight between her and one of her fellow shadowhunters turns into something so much more

pairing: jace herondale x female!reader

warnings: swearing, mentions of violence, smut

masterlist (one, two)

Izzy helped me limp into the Institute, my body feeling run down and exhausted already. She laid me down on a bed and it took me a moment to register that it was my own bed. I was aching all over, but I tried to keep a brave face. At least, I thought I was keeping a brave face. For all I knew I was sobbing like a baby.

“I’ll get my stele,” she told me. “Just...just stay awake, okay?”

I tried to respond but it came out as a pained moan instead. Izzy quickly raced from my room to her own. I could hear her in the distance furiously looking for here stele. I tried to stay awake but my eyes were starting to grow heavy and my head was lulling back against the pillow under me. The thought of drifting off into unconsciousness felt like the best idea I had ever had in that moment.

I heard someone at the door and thought it was Izzy coming back. When I looked up, I saw it was Jace standing in my doorway. His face was pale and he was staring at me in horror. I could only imagine how awful I looked.

“(Y/N),” he breathed. He quickly raced to my side and pulled his stele out. “What the hell happened to you?”

“She had a run in with a demon while she was alone,” Izzy responded, appearing at Jace’s side. “I got there just in time. Can you help me draw healing ruins? She’s going to need a few.”

“I’m way ahead of you.”

The slight burn of Jace’s stele touching my arm caused me to let out a yelp of pain. He looked at me with sympathy as he continued to draw the healing Rune. Izzy moved to my other side and started drawing a Rune there too. It hurt as they were drawing them, but I felt a numbness wash over my body as the Rune started to take effect.

Jace started to stroke my hair after drawing another ruin on me. He looked down at me, his face full of concern. “Rest while the ruins do their work, (Y/N).”

Getting Jace’s permission to finally rest felt like a blessing, and within seconds I was passed out.

~~~~~~

I wasn’t sure how long I was out. When I woke up again, my head still felt heavy and my vision was spinning a little. I tried to lift my head to look around, but it felt like someone had poured nails into my head and shaken it. I groaned and laid back down again, raising my hand to put it on my forehead. I realized then that the pain had completely left my body, except for the headache I had, and I felt good as new again.

“How long have I been out?” I asked, turning my head to see who had stayed with me while I was unconscious. I knew either Jace or Izzy had. They weren’t going to leave me when I was in such rough condition.

Through the slight darkness of my room, I could make out the figure sitting down as Jace. I was slightly shocked to see that Jace was the one who had stayed. Despite his caring and concerned nature when Izzy had first brought me home, the two of us weren’t exactly close. We didn’t hate each other or anything, but we were constantly fighting and he irritated the hell out of me. I didn’t think his kindness would extend to staying with me while I was unconscious.

“A few hours,” he responded. “It’s 2am now, you got back around 8 or 9pm I think.”

I groaned. “I definitely feel like I’ve been out for five or six hours.”

“What were you thinking?” Jace questioned, rising from his seat. “Facing a demon alone? You were lucky that Izzy had known where you were or else you definitely wouldn’t have been feeling as good as you do now.”

“Thanks for that, Captain Obvious,” I muttered. “For your information, I didn’t go out with the intentions of facing a demon alone. I was just out and I got cornered by a demon that knew I was a Shadowhunter. I wasn’t expecting it and it got the jump on me.”

“You shouldn’t have gone out on your own at all. You know the dangers of being caught are high, especially when you can be spotted at any time by a demon.”

I braced myself as I sat up, the pounding feeling in my head intensifying for just a moment, before slowly numbing again.

“I can’t stay cooped up here forever, Jace,” I retorted. “I’m more than capable of taking care of myself.”

“Obviously you’re not or else you wouldn’t have been on death’s doorstep when you got back here.”

“I was not on death’s doorstep. Izzy found me in time, but even if she hadn’t I would’ve been fine.”

“You didn’t look fine.”

I groaned and rolled my eyes. “Listen Jace, I appreciate this...concern you have for me, but I’m fine. I don’t need this lecture, I don’t need anyone’s help, especially not yours. You’ve made it very clear that you don’t actually like me all that much, so you don’t need to continue this caring act, or the lecture. I’m fine and I can take care of myself.”

The tension hung in the air. I expected Jace to walk away and to finally leave me alone. You can imagine my shock when he approached me suddenly, putting one hand behind my head and pulling me in for a kiss.

I was shocked. I didn’t know how to respond to it. I thought for a second that Jace had gone insane, that maybe some Downworlder had scrambled his brain or something. There was no way in Hell that Jace Herondale would willingly kiss me. I was just a torn in his side, and he was one in mine.

But something just felt right about the kiss. His rough hands were gentle as one cupped the back of my neck while the other was wrapped around my waist. He pulled me forward to the edge of the bed, nudging my legs open so he could stand between them. My hands were gripping the t-shirt he was wearing, taking in every last bit of him that I could.

I felt myself laying back on my bed against, Jace’s hand still under my head. He moved with me, hovering over me as our lips moved perfectly in sync with one another. His other hand slipped under my shirt, softly trailing up my side until he reached my bra. We broke away from the kiss just long enough for Jace to pull my shirt over my head and unhook my bra in one swift motion.

He looked down at me, his beautiful different colored eyes soft but full of lust. He gently ran his fingers over my cheek before pressing his lips against mine once more, then moving to start kissing cheek, my jaw, my neck. His lips hovered a moment over the fresh Runes that he and Izzy had drawn on my skin. When he pressed a kiss against them, it almost felt like he was soothing the slight burn that was still there. He continued to gently brush his lips over the white scars left behind from other Runes that had been drawn on my skin for years.

My head fell back against the pillow underneath me as Jace’s lips continued to kiss down my chest and stomach, stopping just above the hem of my jeans. He looked up at me, waiting for permission. When I nodded, he made quick work of pulling my jeans and panties off at one time. He pressed another light kiss just above m aching core before diving in with his tongue.

I gasped at the pleasurable feeling. Of course, being a Shadowhunter doesn’t mean you never have sex. Quite the opposite, really. All four of us in the Institution were no strangers to sex. But this...this was a feeling of pleasure beyond what I had ever experienced before. I blamed the fact that I had only ever had sex with Mundane men before now.

I ran a hand through Jace’s hair and grabbed hold of it. The action caused him to moan against me, the vibrations running through my body.

He lifted his head for air, replacing his tongue with his fingers as he lightly played with my clit.

“I can’t describe how long I’ve been waiting for this,” he said, placing gentle kisses against my stomach again.

“You have a weird way of sh - oh - owing it,” I said, trying to tease him through the pleasure he was giving me.

He smiled in response and moved his hand away. I whimpered from the lack of contact, an action I wasn’t too proud of afterwards but in the moment I could care less.

Jace kissed my lips again, the taste of my arousal on his lips and tongue. It turned me on even more and I just wanted to have him inside of me.

I pushed him down onto the bed and climbed onto his lap, straddling him. He looked impressed by my action. I ran my hands down his still clothed chest, reaching the bottom of his shirt.

“I hardly think it’s far that you’re still dressed while I’m completely naked,” I said.

“Well, we can fix that,” he responded.

I made quick work of taking his clothes off, discarding them somewhere on the floor with my own. When I pulled his boxers down, I audibly gasped at his length. He chuckled at my reaction. “Surprised?”

“Surprised that my fantasies were true,” I responded.

Jace raised an eyebrow at me. “You’ve fantasized about me?”

I took him in my hand and started to slowly stroke him. A breathy gasp escaped from his mouth as he fell completely helpless to my touch.

“It’s hard not to sometimes,” I admitted. “When you’re walking around here in your tight clothes, or with no shirt on. You’re so confident and cocky, it’s hard not to imagine what you’d be like in bed.”

“You finally have the real me here,” he said. “Why not make those fantasies a reality?”

He didn’t have to asked twice.

I spit onto the head of his dick, using my hand to spread it all over him before lining him up with my entrance. The moment his tip slipped inside of me, we both moaned in pleasure and relief. So much built up tension between us, sexual and otherwise, finally being released.

I slowly sat myself down on him, taking in every inch. His hands found their way to my hips, his fingers digging in so harshly that I was sure I’d have bruises there. Once I had adjusted to his size, he started rocking my hips against him, the friction starting to build between us.

I placed my hands on his chest, trying to steady myself as I took over rocking my hips. He looked into my eyes, his mouth partially open as moans and whimpers escaped from his lips. Even with these small movements he was hitting a spot inside of me that I had never felt before. I was almost sure I’d orgasm within seconds.

Jace sat up then, wrapping one arm around my waist while planting the other one on the bed behind him. I wrapped my arms around his shoulders, holding on tightly as he began to thrust up into me. The motions were rougher and faster, hitting that spot inside of me with a force I hadn’t felt before. I buried my head in Jace’s shoulder, trying to muffle my moans as I remembered there were two other people living in the Institution.

“Does that feel good?” he asked.

“Fuck Jace,” I moaned. “That feels so fucking good. I might...I might...”

“What are you gonna do, princess?”

Fuck! And a pet name, too? I was putty in his hands.

I couldn’t even finish my sentence. My climax built up quick and hit me before I was even ready for it. I moaned Jace’s name against his shoulder as I felt myself clenching around him, a warm sensation running through my body.

“Fuck,” he breathed, his thrusts becoming sloppier. “I’m gonna cum.”

“Cum in me,” I whispered. “Please, Jace.”

He threw his head back and groaned as I felt him finish inside of me. I gasped at the feeling, which was almost enough to make me orgasm again.

Jace fell backwards onto the bed, taking me with him. I giggled as I settled against his chest, still wrapped around his softening member. I could stay like that for hours if Jace wanted to.

“Maybe I should get attacked by demons more often,” I mumbled to myself.

Jace tensed under me. “I would much rather if you didn’t.”

I moved my head to look up at him, raising an eyebrow. “Relax, I was only joking. I meant what I said earlier, Jace, I can handle demons on my own.”

He relaxed again, starting to trace his fingers up and down my back. “I know you can. I shouldn’t have overreacted earlier. I’m sorry.”

Normally I’d make some quip about him apologizing, but some things were starting to add up in my head. “You were always hounding me and shit because you were worried for me.”

It wasn’t a question, but Jace responded anyways. “Yeah. I...I just never wanted you to get hurt.”

“Jace, I’m a Shadowhunter just like you. I’ve faced numerous Downworlders before, both by myself and with you guys. I can take care of myself, you don’t have to worry about me.”

“I’m well aware of that. I’ve always been impressed with your fighting skills. It’s just...I care for you in a way that I’ve never cared for someone before. I always worry when you’re out with Izzy or Alec or anyone who isn’t me because I’m afraid of the day that...maybe you don’t come back. When I saw you earlier today...I was so terrified that I was actually going to lose you.”

I propped myself up a bit to take Jace’s face in my hands. “I appreciate how much you care, but you have to have faith in me, Jace. This is the first time I’ve seriously been injured while fighting a Downworlder, and I promise you it’ll be the last time too.”

Jace nodded. I smiled a little and leaned down to kiss him again. I finally decided to untangle myself from him, although I felt empty without him inside of me. I laid down next to him, feeling sleepy from our earlier activities.

My eyes were starting to close when Jace said, “Hey (Y/N).”

“Yeah?”

“Maybe we should close the door next time we decide to have sex.”

My eyes popped open to see that my bedroom door was wide open. I hadn’t noticed that earlier, what with being...“preoccupied” and all. I groaned and buried my face in Jace’s chest as he laughed.

#jace herondale #jace herondale imagine #jace herondale smut #jace herondale x reader #dominic sherwood #dominic sherwood imagine #dominic sherwood smut #dominic sherwood x reader #shadowhunters #shadowhunters imagine #imagine #one shot #request #fanfiction #fanfic #fandom

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oomisluvr · 3 years ago

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sakusa asks you out, a drabble

synopsis: sakusa wants to be your boyfriend (and it’s about time he asked). no warnings, it’s all fluff :)

it’s a warm, thick curry. foreign flavors swirl across your tongue before dropping into your belly. it’s heavy in your stomach; the weight of the food already lulling you to sleep. it’s heat radiates through your body, engulfing your nerves in a delicious comfort. you smile; he did a great job.

“do you like it? i tried to follow the recipe, but i changed few things.” he faces away from you, mumbling. his voice is nonchalant; his expression blank, but you know better than that. you know him better than that. he wants your approval, to show that he can take care of you; that he’s worthy of your time. you playfully roll your eyes.

“y’know, if I didn't know any better, this could be considered a date.”

to be honest, that’s exactly what kiyoomi was going for. he had invited you to his place under the guise of studying, but his intensions were always romantic. he spent the entire afternoon deep cleaning to a playlist of exclusively love songs and decided to prepare a home cooked meal in preparation of your arrival. he lit candles for the ambiance (according to the cosmopolitan article he read) and took nearly forty minutes deciding what to wear.

it’s strange; he’d never been the type to care about what other people thought of him, but with you, it matters. he wants so badly for you to like him it hurts.

“would that be so bad?”

“sorry?”

“would you be opposed,” he gathers himself, taking a deep breath, “if this was a date?”

“no,” you watch the way his shoulders stiffen, enjoying his reactions to your mild advances. a devious smile breaks out on your face.

“no?” “no. in fact, i wish you’d just asked me out to begin with.”

he shyly smiles, a bit of pink dusting his face, heat slowly reaching down to his neck and extending towards his ears. he finally turns to you, watching you from across the island, eating the meal he cooked for you. he plates his food and seats himself to your left, before to pausing to take another deep breath.

“i’m sorry if i gave the wrong impression. i’ve been... interested in you for a while and i didn’t know what to do. i've never done this before. i’m not sure where to go from here, but I really want to try.” he speaks clearly and with confidence, the most you’ve heard all night. he hesitates, before speaking again, “i would be honored if you gave me the chance to be your boyfriend.”

“and what makes you so special that i would let you be my boyfriend?”

god it’s so fun to fuck with him. you absolutely live for the way his blush deepens. you balance him so well; when he gets to stuck in his head, you always know how to bring him back. you push his limits but you never cross any boundaries. with you, he just can't ever get his way.

“i’ll bring you flowers?” he offers, a wobbly grin on his shy features.

“is that all?”

“i can make curry as many times as you want,” he pushes a stray curl from his face, “although, it is the only thing i know how to make.

you laugh, boisterous sounds of joy bubble up from your chest. genuinity looks good on you. lovestruck and lost in you, sakusa doesn’t even notice when you grab his hand until he feels it.

“thank you for tonight.” you flirtatiously smile, pretending to ponder,“and the food is really good, by the way. if i consider your athletic capabilities, cooking skills, mild germaphobia-”

“i’m not a germaphobe; i just like being cau-”

“-i think you’re more than capable. i would love to have you as my boyfriend, kiyoomi.” you reveal, shifting your body to face his. sakusa doesn’t think he heard you correctly and briefly considers having his ears checked.

his heart stops when he feels warmth on his cheek. a single hand flies up to touch the spot where you kissed him, disbelief in his eyes. turning to get a better look at you, the butterflies in his stomach go ape-shit; he feels like he’s floating. up close, it seems, you’ve only gotten prettier. you make him so nervous. he couldn't look away if he tried.

he smiles, “i have something... for you, i mean.” he stands, smoothing out his clothing, “wait here, please.” he stalks off to the entrance of his apartment, digging through his coat that hands on the rack by the door. from your seat at the island, you’re able to see him.

smiling at yourself, you admire the effort he’s putting forth. dressed in black slacks and a burgundy button up (with the sleeves rolled up and several buttons undone, of course), hair swooped back with some sort of pomade, it’s obvious how much kiyoomi cares. he wants to look good for to; to be good to you.

apparently finding what he was looking for, sakusa returns to the kitchen. he’s not empty-handed, much to your surprise, and in both palms, he holds a small box. you raise an eyebrow. he rushes to explain.

“well, since i’m your boyfriend now, that makes today very important.” he still choses to stand, but slides the box towards you.

inside is a pandora bracelet of the most recent collection, inscribed with the phrase ‘unique as you are’. there’s one charm on it: a volleyball.

“today will technically be our anniversary date in the future so, every month that we’re together, i’m going to give you a new charm. if that’s okay.” he scratches his inner arm, clearly nervous. he doesn’t want to move too fast or push you to far. seeing you raise the bracelet towards him for him to put it on you, he leans down to help you out. ever-so-gently, he releases the clasp, slightly twisting the bracelet to accommodate your wrist, and locks the clasp back in place.

he never thought the inside of someones wrists could be beautiful. you’re perfect in every way.

finally, you stand, turning to face him and closing the space between you. gingerly, you slide your hand up his shoulders before locking them around his neck. he feels his heart fall into his ass. you’re so close to him; you smell so good. your skin is so soft, your face so pretty. you sigh dreamily. damn him.

“for someone who says they don't know what they’re doing, you sure are doing a great job,” his eyes seem like they’re sparkling, you can’t help but love him, “kiss me, kiyoomi.” you whisper. his heart flutters. he leans in.

“with pleasure.”

#sakusa #kiyoomi #sakusa kiyoomi #kiyoomi sakusa #msby sakusa #msby sakusa kiyoomi #sakusa fic #sakusa fluff #sakusa x reader #haikyuu #haikyuu sakusa

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cheri-translates · 3 years ago

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[CN] Shaw’s Staying at Home Date

🍒 Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for a date, 居家之约, which has not been released in EN! 🍒

[ Released on 1 November 2021 ]

On an idle weekend, Shaw and I make plans to spend it together at home.

While waiting for him, I play the disc that he lent to me on TV - a documentary of a punk band’s tour.

The moment I plop myself down on the sofa, a series of sounds drift from beside me.

MC: ...Spicy Stick! No biting the sofa!

[Note] In CN, the dog’s name is “辣条” (là tiáo), which is a popular Chinese snack made of wheat flour and chili :>

Just as it’s about to take a bite out of the sofa, I exclaim at the teddy bear dog. It has already torn apart two pairs of slippers, a charging wire, and a cosmetic compact.

Spicy Stick is a Shichon puppy that a friend had left in my care before heading on a business trip.

As it is currently undergoing its teething phase, its main goal is to learn about the world with its mouth.

Spicy Stick gives me an indifferent glance, and has no intention of jumping off the sofa.

A nameless anger rises in my heart. Just as I’m about to assert my power, my phone suddenly rings.

Shaw: Hey, I’m downstairs. I think the lift’s broken, so I’m taking the stairs.

MC: So soon?

While speaking, I brisk walk to the door and open it. Seeing this, Spicy Stick follows me in an instant.

MC: Oh yes. Shaw, did you bring the collar?

Shaw: I did. Your friend’s dog is pretty capable - it even tore its own collar.

On the other end of the line, Shaw sounds as though he’s about to continue with his complaints. However, he suddenly pauses, his tone switching to a more light-hearted one.

Shaw: You’re watching the disc I lent you?

I glance at the TV. The vocalist of the band is in a jacket, swaying his body along with the melody.

MC: Mm. You could tell?

Shaw: Of course. I’ve watched it so many times. What about you? How do you find it?

MC: I think... aside from having a better understanding of the band, I’ve also added a huge pile of hidden treasures into my playlist~

I find myself smiling as I stare at the entrance of the stairway, able to hear footsteps drawing closer.

Shaw: Oh? Looks like aside from being attracted by their accessories and hairstyles, you’ve gained some other things.

MC: How did you know that I like their hairstyles?

Shaw: Haven’t you been posting pictures of them in your Moments every day? Or has your memory deteriorated after doing so much overtime work recently?

Just as I’m about to retort, something occurs to me. My eyes crinkle into a smile.

MC: Looks like Busy Bee Shaw has been paying close attention to me! You’re able to remember every single one of my posts so clearly.

I deliberately use an exaggerated tone, adding emphasis to my words. I don’t receive a response from the other end, and can only hear the sound of breathing as he steps on the staircase.

After a while, Shaw’s voice returns. This time, it’s much clearer.

Shaw: Tsk. So what?

I turn my face to the side. Shaw is standing at the entrance of the stairway, a pair of eyes looking frankly and directly at me.

He climbs up the stairs in a few strides. Walking over, he hands me a plain-looking paper bag.

Shaw: Here. Collar.

My heart stirs slightly. Just as I'm about to take the bag, a shadow suddenly barges into my field of vision.

??: Woof! Woof!

Accompanying two energetic barks, Spicy Stick emerges out of nowhere, lunging straight at Shaw.

Shaw’s eyes widen slightly, astonishment flashing across his face.

Although Sichons are petite, they are very strong in combat.

After Shaw enters my house, Spicy Stick remains splayed at his feet, growling loudly at him. It seems to have deemed Shaw as an “intruder” in this territory.

Shaw: Little chap, you’re pretty friendly.

Shaw: To think that I personally made a collar for you.

Shaw arches his brows slightly, retrieving a riveted collar from the paper bag. He wobbles it in front of Spicy Stick.

MC: You made it yourself?

A little surprised, I take the collar from his hand. I notice that the rivets are made from a special material and are soft to the touch. Also, the workmanship is incredibly meticulous.

MC: It looks pretty unique.

Shaw: Of course it is.

Shaw responds without a trace of humility. He removes his jacket, placing it casually on the sofa.

Shaw: This teddy bear dog has such a unique name, so it needs a unique collar too. When it heads out with this collar next time, it’d definitely not bump into another dog with the same design.

Even so, Spicy Stick doesn’t buy Shaw’s goodwill. It continues barking at him loudly and fearlessly.

MC: Spicy Stick, be a little quieter.

Spicy Stick: Woof woof!

MC: ...

Shaw: I didn’t expect it to listen to you this obediently.

Shaw tosses me a somewhat gloating glance.

Clearing my throat in embarrassment, I attempt to control the restless Spicy Stick.

During this difficult time, Spicy Stick grabs Shaw’s jacket in its mouth. Something seems to fall onto the ground, releasing an abrupt and crisp sound.

Following the sound, I spot a silver accessory falling out of the pocket. Before I can get a more precise look, Shaw quickly picks it up.

I look up at Shaw, only to see his slightly displeased expression.

MC: What’s that?

Shaw: Nothing much.

With this, Shaw frowns slightly. His face grows solemn, and he takes steps towards Spicy Stick.

Shaw: You aren’t going to stop, are you?

With Shaw’s jacket in its mouth, Spicy Stick slowly retreats to a corner of the room.

Their humongous height difference causes Spicy Stick’s earlier haughtiness and pride to dissipate. It blinks, lifting its head to look at Shaw.

Spicy Stick: Woo...

Worried that Shaw’s genuinely angry, I hurry over. Squatting down, I tap Spicy Stick on the nose.

MC: Spicy Stick, don’t be so fierce. This Big Brother isn’t an outsider. Got it? Be good, and give the jacket to me.

My appearance probably makes Spicy Stick think that the danger has been eliminated. It flits its eyes, obediently loosening its grip. Then, it licks its paw leisurely.

Lifting my hand, I hand the jacket back to Shaw.

MC: All right, don’t be mad at it.

Shaw: Hmph...

Shaw’s eyes flash slightly, as though he wants to say something. In the end, he simply releases a soft “tsk”.

Taking the jacket, he squats down like me. Then, he arches his brows lazily.

Shaw: Just saying it isn't effective.

He stares at Spicy Stick, a dangerous aura brewing in his gaze.

Shaw: It needs to learn from this experience.

Scattered bits of sunlight filter in through crevices of the curtains. They fall on the ends of Shaw’s hair, coating him with a soft layer of gentle light.

The documentary playing on TV has been paused. I’m lying on my stomach on the carpet, watching as Shaw draws various images on coloured cards - fire, food bowl, clothes, and other things.

MC: ...why are you drawing these things?

Shaw: You’ll know in a while.

Once he’s done with the final stroke, he covers the coloured pencil with a cap and places it at the side. Then, he takes out the dog food he’s prepared, tapping on the carpet gently.

Shaw: Spicy Stick, come here.

Hearing someone calling it, Spicy Stick comes over curiously. Lowering its head, it sniffs the cards.

Shaw: Look carefully. This is raw meat. It’s the food you eat every day. You can touch it however you want.

Shaw pauses for a moment, then takes out a few other cards.

Shaw: These are clothes. This is fire... For the sake of humanity and your own life, it’s best for you to control your exuberant curiosity when you see them, and keep your paws to yourself.

Shaw props his face up with a hand, tilting his head to look at Spicy Stick.

Shaw: If you understand this, put your paw here. I’ll give you a reward.

While saying this, he sways the snack in his hand, the other hand lightly tapping on the props he had found in my board games.

It’s rare to see Shaw being this serious. Finding this novel, I look him up and down.

But Spicy Stick turns a deaf ear to Shaw’s words.

With its round eyes, it stares at Shaw.

In the short silence, I’m suddenly struck with an idea. I lift Spicy Stick up, my hand on its bell.

“Ding...”

The crisp sound echoes in the room. With a sly smile, I hide behind Spicy Stick.

Pinching my throat, I pretend to speak like Spicy Stick -

MC: I’ve already recognised all these cards. Next time, I’ll definitely obey instructions!

Shaw is taken aback momentarily, clearly not expecting me to do this.

I can’t help but chuckle inwardly while blinking at him with even more force.

MC: Earlier, I shouldn’t have taken your jacket away. I’ll do my best to correct my ways, and strive to become an obedient and sensible puppy. Please forgive me this time~

After saying this, I couple my words with an incredibly innocent gaze, staring directly at Shaw.

In my arms, Spicy Stick yawns at this appropriate moment.

Shaw and MC: ...

After a moment of silence, Shaw averts his gaze unnaturally, bursting into a nonchalant chuckle.

Shaw: Come to think of it, the both of you are pretty similar.

MC: What?

Shaw: Make a guess.

MC: ...you share more similarities with it! Doing whatever you like!

Spicy Stick: Woof!

Spicy Stick barks, as though agreeing with me. Probably finding this too boring, it suddenly breaks free from my arms, running off to play.

Shaw casts a sweeping glance at its happy rear view, pursing his lips.

Although Shaw isn’t facing me, I’m able to see that the corners of his lips have curled upwards.

Just as the smile on my face broadens, a series of noises draw our attention.

Shaw: ...tsk. It truly causes others to worry.

Shaw looks at the “incorrigible” Spicy Stick, his brows knitted together.

At some point, Spicy Stick has once again run over to Shaw’s jacket, taking the silver accessory from his pocket with its mouth.

This time, I finally get a clear glimpse of the accessory - it’s a necklace with a signet ring for a pendant. A lightning design is engraved on it.

Shaw is clearly exasperated.

Shaw: Be good. Let it go.

He carries Spicy Stick, carefully retrieving the necklace from its mouth before using his hand to wipe the area it had bit.

MC: Is this your necklace?

I look at Shaw with slight curiosity.

Based on my memory, he has tons of accessories. Each time we meet, he seems to don different accessories.

It’s rare to see him being so concerned about one particular accessory.

Shaw: Not exactly.

Shaw responds calmly. A certain emotion flashes across his face, as though he’s vexed over the idea of disclosing something in advance.

After a short while, Shaw looks up, staring fixedly at me.

Shaw: I was going to give it to you later. Since you’ve already seen it, I’ll do it now.

I blink, feeling a little surprised as I study the necklace in my hand.

MC: ...it’s for me?

Shaw: What’s with that expression? Is it that surprising?

Shaw arches an eyebrow, looking at me with slight displeasure.

I nod truthfully.

MC: After all, the things you gave me before were mostly...

I deliberate on my choice of words. Watching as Shaw’s brows arch even further, I immediately continue.

MC: Unique.

Shaw’s expression finally relaxes a little.

Shaw: Is that so. This is very unique too.

He points at the necklace in my hand, his tone light-hearted.

Shaw: Aside from being a necklace, this pendant can be removed and worn on the finger.

Shaw pauses, then chuckles.

Shaw: Forget it. I’m afraid you’re too stupid, so I’ll demonstrate it once for you.

He takes the necklace from me. After removing the pendant, he lifts my hand.

MC: I’m not stupid...

I grumble softly. Shaw simply chuckles, and doesn’t respond.

Strands of hair brush my chin lightly, bringing with it a refreshing scent of shampoo. Shaw lowers his head, a rare serious expression on his face.

Warm breaths sweep the spaces between my fingers, levelling out the slightly cool sensation of his fingers.

Seeing his face, which is close enough to touch, I find myself softening my own breathing. My gaze slowly sweeps across his eyes, his nose, his lips...

Shaw: Here, like this.

Shaw’s voice brings me back to my senses. My face flushes, and I pretend to be calm as I avert my gaze.

MC: [blushing] ...I’ll have a look.

Lowering my head, I see that the signet-style ring has already landed steadily onto my palm.

I scrutinise it carefully. Along with my movements, light reminiscent of flowing water glides across the lightning design engraved on it.

Shaw: How is it?

He stares at me, an almost indiscernible nervousness flashing in his eyes.

The corners of my lips curl upwards, forming a broad grin coming straight from my heart.

MC: It’s so pretty.

Shaw chuckles softly, his brows relaxing gently.

MC: Why did you suddenly think of giving me this?

I look up, meeting Shaw’s line of sight. His gaze stirs slightly, but he responds indifferently.

Shaw: Don’t you find these punk-style accessories cool? So I randomly bought one.

MC: I see...

I nod. Although I don’t say much, a layer of warmth surges from the depths of my heart.

It turns out that he remembers all these seemingly trivial and ordinary details.

As though seeing through my thoughts, Shaw’s lips curl upwards.

Shaw: If you feel like smiling, there’s no need to control it.

MC: Who says I’m controlling it?

I turn to face him, the corners of my lips arched high.

MC: Aren’t I smiling?

Loving it so much that I’m unwilling to put it down, I flip the accessory around in my hand. It emits a beautiful lustre, and seems to have undergone meticulous polishing.

After studying it carefully, I don’t find any brand logo.

MC: Is this necklace handmade?

Shaw: ...you could say that.

The glint in Shaw’s eyes flashes. From his 0.01 second pause, I detect something odd.

All of a sudden, something occurs to me. My gaze flits over to the riveted collar on the drawer at the entrance.

Shaw (flashback): Little chap, you’re pretty friendly. To think that I personally made a collar for you.

A thought suddenly emerges from my heart...

MC: Shaw, did you...

Shaw: Stop. No questions allowed. Just keep it. You can mull over the rest yourself.

Shaw interrupts my words.

I pout unhappily. Just as I’m about to retort, music drifts over to my ears -

“I’m all over my heart’s desire, I feel cold but I’m back in the fire...”

Turning towards the sound, I realise that the tour documentary on TV which was paused earlier has resumed.

And the perpetrator, Spicy Stick, is currently pawing at the remote, staring fixedly at the screen.

MC: Pfft. Looks like watching the documentary with me over the past two days has made Spicy Stick like rock music.

Storing the necklace carefully, I pat my legs before calling out to Spicy Stick.

MC: Spicy Stick, come here!

Spicy Stick tilts its head to look at me before walking over.

MC: Very obedient... hm...?

Just as Spicy Stick is about to lunge itself into my arms, its line of sight seems to be drawn to something. It suddenly changes its mind, both eyes glistening as it turns to the side.

Shaw: Mm... very obedient.

Shaw swings dog food in his hand, glancing at me with pride.

MC: [angry] ...Spicy Stick! You were bought over so easily with snacks?

With bitterness in my heart, I watch Spicy Stick’s gradually retreating form. I didn’t expect our two days of bonding to be no match for a bag of treats.

Shaw: As someone in the media industry, why are your words so inaccurate? It’s clearly a case where an afternoon of interaction has caused the both of us to cultivate a bond. Right, Spicy Stick?

[Note] There’s a writing mistake here since MC didn’t voice out her thoughts LOL

Shaw carries Spicy Stick with both hands, placing it on his lap.

Shaw: Mm, you do have a conscience. I’ll write off what happened earlier.

With an upward curl of his lips, his slender and long fingers stroke Spicy Stick’s back.

Meanwhile, Spicy Stick narrows its eyes comfortably, eating the snacks Shaw feeds to it in a leisurely manner.

Looking at this “quiet and beautiful” scene, I find myself fuming. Although I’m upset at this “snobbish” teddy bear dog...

Seeing the both of them finally interacting amicably, I can’t help but heave a secret sigh of relief.

MC: ...forget it. From a certain standpoint, this is also a good thing.

I mutter softly. Then, I shift a little closer to them, leaning against the sofa.

Shaw: [chuckles] ...

A nonchalant, soft chuckle lands on my ear. Immediately after, a warm palm is placed on the back of my hand.

I’m taken aback momentarily, feeling my heart rate accelerate slightly.

From my peripheral vision, I sneak a peek at the person next to me. He’s currently watching the TV, a faint smile hooking the corners of his lips upwards.

Outside the window, the brilliant gold sunlight from before has turned into a warm orange. It filters through the windows, spilling onto the carpet.

With a gentle blink, I return the grip of that hand.

In the tranquil room, time seems to be drawn out.

A lively melody flows in the air. On the TV screen, the band is performing a song that I happen to be familiar with, and I find myself humming along softly...

“I'm all over my heart’s desire...”

“I feel love in the shock of the lightning...”

“I fall into the blinding light. Come in, come out, come in, come out tonight...”

The grip on my hand tightens. The person beside me chuckles softly, and my cheeks subconsciously grow a little warmer.

Just as I’m about to guess that I sang off-key, Shaw makes a simple assessment -

Shaw: Mm, not bad. You didn’t go off-key this time.

My eyes crinkle into a smile. Feeling somewhat proud of myself, I speak up.

MC: Of course~ I’ve heard it so many times, and really like this song.

Shaw: Is that so? ...that’s true, it does sound like a style you’d like.

Shaw chuckles. While watching the TV, his gaze seems to drift far away.

Shaw: In the past, I wasn’t really interested in this song because I didn’t think the band was good at this style. But now that I’m listening to it, I feel differently.

MC: How do you feel about it?

I turn to look at Shaw. He strokes Spicy Stick’s head, then chuckles softly.

Shaw: I like it, of course.

🌶️ Call and Moments: here

🌶️ Support the cafe by dropping by the tip jar!

#mlqc #mlqc cn #mlqc spoilers #mlqc shaw #the pet dates for the remaining LIs will be translated by others!#kiro: @itaruchi-trash #lucien: @xiaomoxu #victor: @lys-lilac

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backtobackbakubabe · 3 years ago

Text

Speak Easy Part 13

Dabi x Reader , Bakugo x Reader

Words : 3125

Masterlist

Reader has a siren quirk and has spent the past several years of her life as a captive being experimented on by “heroes” Now that she’s out she needs protection and safe place to heal. Who will be the one to put her pieces back together.

Words with ‘this’ is dialogue written in her journal rather than said out loud and and words with ~this~ is dialogue said in sign language rather than out loud.

********************************************************************

You watched as Dabi paced in front of you as you hugged your knees to your chest. Shoto had come to sit next to you and you were grateful for his calming presence. He kept giving you a weird look and then looking at his brother. He obviously wanted to ask what was going on between the two of you, but you mouthed, “later” at him and he shrugged it off.

“Ok. So what? He has a list of my safe houses. That’s okay… That’s arguably a good thing actually.” Dabi was thinking out loud trying, and even though his voice sounded calm, you could see the way his hands balled into fists so tight his staples were pulling.

“No one knows about this place. This is the safest house out of all of them. I bought it after I left the League, it’s in the middle of nowhere, and the security is the best money can buy.” He stopped his pacing and looked at his brother, “So…”

Shoto draped a lazy arm around you and you released a tense breath you hadn’t realized you were holding. He quirked his head at his older brother, “So…? What? Why is that a good thing?”

Dabi’s eyes got this scary look. They practically glowed and you could tell whatever he was thinking probably wasn’t good. “It means we can pick them off. Set up traps for them at my other safe houses. It might take some time… we won’t know what houses they’re targeting so at first it’ll be a lot of guess work.” You could see a scheme hatching behind his eyes and for once he truly looked like a villain. “You said Bakugo was already out looking for them, right? I can meet up with him! They’re my houses after all, no one knows them better than me.”

He took off towards the bedroom mumbling something about needing to pack. Your wide eyes connected with Shoto’s, “How long before he remembers he’d have to leave me behind and panics?”

Shoto hummed, “I’d say about thirty seconds after he’s done packing.” He shrugged, “It’s not a bad plan honestly. I see he’s gotten rather attached to you lately though.”

You could hear the unspoken question and you weren’t sure you were ready to jump into that conversation just yet. It was bad enough that Katsuki knew. You shrugged and averted your eyes back to the door Dabi had disappeared behind. “We’ve gotten pretty close. You learn a lot about someone when you’re stuck in a house with them.”

“SHIT!”

Shoto sighed, “Sounds like he just remembered.”

Dabi stomped back into the living room and stopped a few feet in front of you. His stare was intense almost like he was trying to see through you. You could see his frustration growing as he battelled internally over what he should do. “I can’t leave you here by yourself… I don’t want to leave you at all. But- But I can’t take you with me either.” You could see his mind running a mile a minute trying to come up with a solution.

“You can leave me here, I’m not totally useless. I have the collar, so you can call me, check on my location and vitals and all that creepy shit.” You gestured to the younger Todoroki sitting next to you, “And I’m sure your brother and Izuku are dying to have some time to catch up. They can keep me company. Kiri too if need be.”

Dabi kneeled in front of you and laid his arms on either side of you, caging you in. “It would drive me insane leaving you here.”

You brushed your thumb over the spot between his eyes, smoothing out his worried expression. “More insane than if you stayed here and let Katsuki handle this on his own?”

His body sagged and he leaned his forehead onto your shoulder. “If I didn’t know better, I’d say it sounds like you want me to go.”

You leaned your head on his. “Of course I don’t want you to go idiot. But I hate to break it to you, I know you pretty well… And I don’t think sitting here day after day listening to you complain about how you could do it better, sounds like fun.” He groaned because he knew you were right. “So, go ahead and go. I’ll be fine here I promise. Go catch some bad guys with Katsuki.”

“Ugh don’t say it like that. You make is sound like a cheesy buddy cop movie. I just hope your little hero friend isn’t squeamish because I’m not going to hold back.”

Shoto cleared his throat, “Some of us… little heroes… have seen enough shit to last a lifetime. Bakugo’s the hardest working and grittiest out of us all, so believe me when I say you don’t need to worry about him.”

Dabi narrowed his eyes at his brother who he had just realized was practically cuddling with you. “Seeing death and dealing it out are two different things. I know he’s capable of killing someone, but mentally I don’t think he could cross that line.” He held a hand up to stop Shoto from arguing with him. “And I don’t care if he doesn’t want to get his precious hero hands dirty. Because that’s what I’m here for, and I’m honestly looking forward to it.”

You huffed, “Listen, I really don’t like the look you get when you talk about killing people. It’s sick… killing isn’t supposed to be fun you psychopath.”

His eyes shifted back to yours, “Baby girl. I want to make something clear. I will find the sick fucks that kidnapped you. I will torture them in the most painful and humiliating ways possible. By the time I’m done… they will welcome death with open arms. I’ll be doing them a favor.” His forehead pressed against yours. “Unless you’d rather I save them for you…My destroyer of men.”

You hit his shoulder, “I’d rather you let Katsuki arrest them! You know how I feel about killing villains.”

His hand gripped the back of your neck hard to force you to look at him, “…No. You know I can’t do that. The sooner you accept that, the easier all of this will be.” His thumb rubbed your cheek, “I know it sucks. But this is the world you live in now. We can’t trust anyone but ourselves.”

Shoto cleared his throat, “Listen I don’t know what is going on between the two of you, but I would appreciate it if you refrained from being kinky in my presence.”

Dabi growled, “Fuck off! You literally let yourself in unannounced… When all of this over I swear we’re leaving the fucking country. I’m so sick of you brats just coming over whenever you feel like it. We’re gonna leave and you’ll never see us again.”

Shoto quirked an eyebrow, “So… Even after all of this is resolved… you plan to still live with y/n?” You could see the gears turning in his head as he pieced all of this together. “Hmm interesting.” He got up and stretched. “Well I guess I’ll give you guys some alone time to… do whatever this is… just without me having to witness it.”

“Hey before you go… You sure you’re okay with keeping an eye on her while I’m gone?” You hadn’t heard Dabi sound so uncertain before. Usually he carried so much confidence that it was overwhelming. But now he sounded lost.

Shoto nodded, “Yeah it’s not a big deal. Izuku and I can take shifts. Kirishima will probably take over every now and then depending on how long you are gone… But we don’t mind. Y/n was right when she said we’d like to catch up with her.” He gave you an awkward wink that was completely out of character for him. “You’ve been hoarding her all to yourself for months now.” He walked down the hall and shouted, “Try not to be too loud. I’ll just pick the room that smells the least like sex.”

“Good luck! I’ve fucked her on every surface of the hou—” You slammed a hand over Dabi’s mouth to cut him off.

You hid your face in Dabi’s shoulder to stifle your laugh. “I love your brother so much. He has no filter and it’s honestly so refreshing.”

A quick slap to your thigh had you gasping, “I don’t appreciate you talking about my brother that way.” He nipped at your earlobe harshly, “Especially after I just agreed to let him stay here while I’m gone.”

Before you could respond he was standing up and throwing you over his shoulder, “I think I need to remind you who you fucking belong to.” He slapped your ass as you shrieked, “I might be gone for a while, so I think I need to give you something to remember.”

“You are so ridiculous! He’s literally in a committed relationship with another man!”

Dabi tossed you onto his bed and immediately fell on top of you. “He’s also my brother and I know that slut swings both ways.” He bit down hard on your shoulder, “I’m going to leave my fucking mark all over you before I go.” He sucked a bruise into your neck, “Tonight… I’m going to claim every fucking inch of you.”

He had you naked underneath him within seconds, kissing down the column of your neck. He continued down to suck a nipple into his mouth and you had to bite down on your lip to keep from screaming.

“Come on baby, let him hear you. Let him hear how good I treat you. Let him know that there is only one Todoroki for you.”

You wanted to argue with him. There was no way Shoto was interested in you at all. He’d been in love with Izuku since high school. But you were also enjoying the way Dabi was marking his territory. There was something so peaceful about giving up control to another person, especially someone you trust.

You let him kiss and suck and grope every part of you. In this moment you were his to do with as he wished. You didn’t care he was leaving mark after mark on your skin. He was claiming you, he was daring others to lay a finger on what it is his. And you fucking loved it. You loved the peace and the comfort that came with the idea of him declaring that you are his. The security of knowing he wouldn’t let another soul touch you.

He bit harshly into your inner thigh, making you yelp and buck your hips.

He chuckled darkly as he came back up and rubbed his nose against yours. “Baby girl, just look at your face. I haven’t even touched your pussy yet and you already looked so fucked out.” He dragged his fingers lightly over your stomach, across your ribs, over your breast, and finally let them settle on your neck.

You shivered and closed your eyes, “Dabiiii, stop teasing me.”

His fingers tightened around your throat. “You said some shit earlier that really got under my skin. And now I can’t decide if I should punish you or not.”

Your head spun as it tried to think about what you possibly could have said to upset him. “What – what did I say?”

Dabi leaned in sucking your bottom lip into his mouth before biting down hard. “You said…. You loved my brother.”

Your heart pounded in your chest and you felt an intense heart overwhelm your face and neck. Was he saying what you thought he was saying? Was he jealous? Did he want you to say you loved him? Is that really what he wanted to hear?

You hadn’t noticed him pulling his own pants down until he was thrusting into you. “I’m a selfish man y/n. I’m greedy. I don’t share. And hearing those sweet little words said about someone else.” His hips snapped into yours harder, as his fingers got even tighter around your neck to the point where you were sure there would be bruises.

His pace picked up and you could feel the sweat dripping from his forehead, “I wanna hear you say it. Who do you love?”

Your eyes rolled back as you croaked out a horse “you”

“That’s not good enough doll. I said! WHO do you FUCKIN LOVE?”

His fingers let go of your throat and as intense pleasure washed over you, leaving your legs shaking, “YOU!”

He fucked you through your orgasm before he followed right behind you, “That’s what I fuckin thought.”

He only parted with you long enough to clean the two of you up. He wandered to the bathroom to get a warm, wet towel. You hummed contently as rubbed it all over your body, especially over the sore new marks he had made on your skin. When he was satisfied, he tossed the rag to the floor to deal with later and rejoined you in bed. He pulled you to him, your back to his chest, and let out a huge sigh. “I’m really nervous about leaving you here. And it honestly makes me angry. I’ve never cared about another person like this, hell I’ve never even cared about my own well being this much.” You could feel him resting his chin on your shoulder, “It makes me feel weak and I hate it.”

You intertwined your fingers with his that were wrapped around your middle. “You know what they say about bravery right? Bravery isn’t not being scared. Only stupid people aren’t scared of anything. Bravery is being scared of something and doing it anyway.” You sank further into his embrace. “If it makes you feel any better, I’m scared too. Which is equally as frustrating.”

You could feel him kiss your shoulder, encouraging you to continue. “I used to be incredibly independent. I lived alone, I worked alone, because of the classified nature of my job I was pretty isolated. I didn’t need anyone, and I was more than happy to get shit done on my own…Now the thought doing anything without you gives me anxiety.”

He sighed, “If anything that makes me feel worse… I believe we have a classic case of codependency… it’s your fault by the way. For sucking me in to your annoyingly needy arms.”

“Says the guy who has his arms currently wrapped around me like a vice.” You wanted to stay in this sweet moment. He was never this open with you, never this soft. “And even though it’s not my fault, I will admit that I did kind of need you for everything when I first got here.” You felt his chest rumble with silent laughter. “But you never really complained, did you? To be honest I had thought you would have been… I don’t know… a little more… cold I guess.”

His hands heated up as they rubbed circles into your stomach. “To anyone else I definitely would have been.” He turned you around so he could pull your chest to his and rolled onto his back, tucking your head under his chin. “I was fucking toast the second you fell into my arms though.” He groaned, “UGH! I sound like such a pussy. I hate it.”

You pressed several kisses to his chest, “Well I don’t hate it.”

There was a long stretch of silence in which the two of you just held each other, not wanting to burst your bubble.

Dabi cleared his throat and you knew he wanted to talk about it. “Listen… While I’m gone all of the laws are still valid. You still need to take care of yourself. Just because I’m not here to force you to eat lunch doesn’t mean you don’t have to.” His fingers rubbed up and down your spine. “I’m sure if you ask the guys, they’ll work out with you, but they need to keep their filthy hands to themselves.” His hand stopped at your collar, “And as much I hate saying this. Don’t call me.”

You lifted your head and gave him a confused look, “What? You worried your side chicks will hear?”

He reached down and slapped your ass, “Shut up. I literally live with you and we never leave the house. That jokes not even funny.” His hand started to rub the same spot he had just slapped, “I’m being serious though. I don’t want you to call me. If something happens and they get my phone, or hell if they somehow capture me, I don’t want anything tying me to you. Shigaraki suspects you’re with me otherwise he wouldn’t be going through my safe houses. But he doesn’t know you’re with me, and I want to keep it that way.” His voice got quitter as he mumbled into your hair, “Besides… I think if I heard your voice I’d give up and come home.”

You froze, “Okay, that is officially the softest thing you’ve ever said to me… and I love it.”

He growled low in your ear, “That’s it, I’m going to start calling you whore, and making you call me sir. I’m losing my damn edge.”

You just giggled, knowing he was bluffing, but then again… he did get you a collar.

“I’m going to miss you… sir.”

“I’m gonna miss you too… my special little whore.”

You sarcastically beamed at him, “Aww you think I’m special?”

That night, you barley slept. You were so worried he’d leave without waking you up to say bye. So, as a consequence you woke up several times throughout the night and every time, he’d pull you closer and mumble a sleepy “still here.”

When morning finally came you sat on the bed with your kneed tucked under your chin as you watched him finish getting ready. Your eyes followed him as he walked around the room, taking his time. He knew the sooner he got dressed the sooner he’d have to leave.

Finally, when he had no other choice, he laced his boots up and looked at you. “Come here…” He held his arms out to you and you quickly slid into his embrace. “You be a good girl while I’m gone, okay?” He kissed the top of your head. “Listen to Shoto and try not to give him too much shit. Follow the laws, don’t watch any of our shows while I’m gone, if there’s any big emergencies have one of the guys call Bakugo.”

You nodded and looked up into his bright blue eyes, “You be safe, and don’t do anything stupid. Come back preferably in one piece please.”

He chuckled, “I will do my best doll.”

************

Tags: tags: @falling4fandoms @wifunozomi @here-in-never-land @whore-for-anime @klecksstorys @aurorahoneybuns @theunknownrandom @insane-without-delirium @frenchsfryys @officiallydarkgeek @neofixcs @music-is-all-i-need @katsuki-bakubabe@unadulteratedtastemakerpoetry@dabislittlemouse@aimee1602@pinkhatlizzy @kunaigirlx44 @nii-sanfucker@bestgirlb @silver-stardrop@bakubby99 @squichymochi

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ncssian · 3 years ago

Text

A Favor: Part Twenty-Three

Nessian Modern AU

Masterlist

a/n: so yeah this isn’t my best work bc i havent been feeling great lately but i hope you guys can stay patient with me until i get my shit together. we’re almost to the end🤞

***

Sitting crammed between Elain and Feyre on the gray couch in Lana’s office, Nesta has to cross her legs prettily and pretend she doesn’t want to peel out of her skin right there. She doesn’t know what she was thinking when she invited her sisters to one of her therapy sessions, but she’s assuming it would be considered rude to kick them out now.

“Who wants to speak first?” Lana’s bob swings as she looks at each of them. The office is ice cold today, and Feyre and Elain’s presence doesn’t help the chill in the air.

Nesta crosses her arms before she can be asked to speak. “No, thank you,” she says. She knows everyone probably expects better from her, but no way in hell is she going to be the first to open up in front of this crowd. “Feyre,” she turns to her youngest sister instead, “why don’t you say something?”

“Actually, why don’t you set the example, Nesta?” Lana gives her a look, making her cheeks redden with irritation.

“Fine,” Nesta grumbles. She clears her throat. “As you can see, I have made moves to reconnect with my sisters. I invited them here because I hoped that therapy would bring us closer and also make them more… tolerable.”

Elain coughs, “Bitch.”

Nesta smiles tightly. “Elain could especially use this, I think.”

Lana is already frowning. She never frowns this early into a session. “We’ll start with an easy question, then. What’s been on your mind lately, Nesta?”

Nesta purses her lips, pretending to think. “Nothing important. I’m looking at jobs for the summer. I think Azriel keeps sneaking money into my purse, and it’s starting to become more than a little condescending. I caught up with some friends from school, and I was polite enough to pay for lunch.” She mentions off to the side to Elain, “Lucien was there, too.”

“Why would I care?” Elain sneers. She spies Lana’s disapproving look and lowers her head demurely. “Sorry,” she murmurs.

“That’s alright,” Lana says. “Why don’t you go next?”

“Me?” Elain’s head snaps up, and Nesta holds in her snicker.

“Start by describing your relationship with Nesta. I heard you two used to be very close.” Lana uncaps her pen, preparing to write.

Elain flushes lightly and folds her hands. “That was when we were children. The only thing keeping us together was that we shared a home. When we stopped living in the same place, some of us had no problem leaving others in the dust.”

“You can use my name,” Nesta rolls her eyes, “I’m right here.”

From the corner of her vision, Feyre cringes.

“Are you saying you feel abandoned by Nesta?” Lana continues probing.

Elain’s answering silence tells more than enough. Therapy must actually be paying off, though, because Nesta only thinks about interrupting and defending herself for a second before shaking it off. Her mind focuses on the word abandonment instead.

Lana is focusing on the same thing, because she leans closer and says, “Being abandoned bothers you?”

“I never said that,” Elain says indignantly.

“It would bother most people.”

Nesta watches Elain sigh and blink her big doe eyes at Lana. She’s always been able to use those eyes on anybody for anything. “I just don’t understand why I’m the villain for expecting a little loyalty,” Elain says sweetly. “Especially when you take a look at this face.” She cups her round cheeks. “You know psychology. How could you abandon this face?”

Nesta’s jaw hangs open. “Are we still talking about me?” She remembers Cassian telling her the story behind Azriel ghosting Elain, and a pang of guilt and pity hits her. She still hasn’t talked with Elain about why Azriel left Velaris, and she knows she won’t be able to decide whether to spare Az or not until she does.

“So that’s my turn,” Elain finishes up. “Feyre can go next.”

Lana is writing something sharply on her notepad, but she nods coolly. “Feyre, how would you describe your relationship with your sisters?”

“Oh, we don’t have time for all of that,” Feyre laughs awkwardly and waves a hand.

Nesta agrees, but the look Lana gives Feyre tells her that yes, they do have time.

Gulping, Feyre glances around. “Well, I was born last, so I guess that made me the outsider of the family. I never had much in common with my sisters, but now that we’re older I… hoped that we would grow past that.”

Translation: she hoped that once she found her happy ending in Rhysand’s arms, poor little Nesta and Elain would happily assimilate into her new community of wealthy friends, putting the cherry on top of her perfect life. And while Elain did that exact thing, it’s always bothered Feyre that Nesta won’t do the same.

Feyre continues, “I admit I’m not the best at understanding Nesta. Elain and I get along fine now, but Nesta…” Feyre meets her eyes. “It’s like nothing we do is enough for her, but for some reason I can’t stop trying.”

“Whose fault is that?” Nesta mutters.

“You want her approval,” Lana hums, taking notes.

“Is that what it is?” Feyre looks away.

Nesta refrains from saying yes, that’s exactly what it is, and it’s not my problem if you keep looking for something I can’t give.

“What are your feelings about that, Nesta?” Lana turns her focus to her. “Remember that this is a safe space.”

It really isn’t, not with two siblings holding long term grudges against Nesta. But once and for all, she’s going to set the record straight. “I spent most of my life being a bad sister.” Nesta’s voice is apathetic, straightforward. “I let Feyre take the burden of providing for us even though I was the oldest, and I didn’t know how to be anything other than cruel to my family. So once I had the means to do so, I cut everyone off for all of our sakes. I still don’t regret it, because being a stranger is better than being a bad sister.”

In that way, Nesta is a bit like her mother. Nesta was angry after her death, but she knows she would have been even angrier if Magdalene Archeron had lived and continued to be a disappointing parent. In that way, both of them are wise for leaving their families when they did.

“Or you could just be a good sister,” Elain interrupts with a drawl.

Nesta smirks bitterly at her. “I’d rather die.”

Feyre takes in a breath. “Why? Why are you like that with us?” She blinks furiously, and Nesta can see the simmer of her emotions. “It was okay when we thought you hated everybody, but you don’t. You only hate me and Elain.”

Nesta looks to Lana for help, but her therapist is sitting this one out. She sighs through her nose. “I don’t hate you,” she says, even though they might never understand. The next line comes with great difficulty. “I’ve loved you since before I even knew what love was. But I don’t like you very much, Feyre, and you don’t like me, either. Please stop trying to change that.”

When she finally meets Feyre’s eyes, though, they’re glimmering with tears. “How can I stop trying to change that?” Feyre whispers. “How can I give up on us like that?”

For Nesta to give Feyre and Elain the relationship they want from her would require nothing but lies on her part. And as much as she wishes she was capable of lying about this, she can’t do it.

Looking away and down at her hands, Nesta mutters, “It’s not fun for me either, but it’s how I am. I can’t be easy or friendly with you. I hate watching you try to make me be easy or friendly.”

Nobody says anything to that, but when Nesta looks up again Lana gives her a remote nod that Feyre and Elain don’t catch. Thank you for your vulnerability, it says.

“You said something interesting, Nesta,” Lana breaks the silence. “Did you see your sisters as your responsibility to raise?”

Nesta shrugs. “I was the oldest,” she repeats.

“Your father was the oldest.”

“He wouldn’t do shit even if you held a gun to his head, so I was up next.” Though Nesta hadn’t done shit either. Neither had Elain, but the rules have always been different for her. Elain redeems herself to others by handing out sunny smiles and pretending to have the intelligence of a fawn.

Lana stares at Nesta until Nesta’s skin starts to heat. “What?” she says defensively.

Ignoring the other two women in the room, Lana leans forward. “You told me once early into our relationship that part of the reason you left Tennessee was to get away from your sisters. You said you were heartbroken when they ended up following you here.”

Nesta doesn’t breathe or look to see her sisters’ reactions.

“Now I’m going to ask: did you really want to get away from your sisters, or did you want to escape the feeling of failing them?”

Nesta doesn’t know how to answer, because to her they might as well be the same thing. Having Feyre and Elain around is like having a weight tied to her chest. The lingering guilt every time Feyre is in a room, her existence screaming I’m the reason you’re still alive. Elain’s constant expectations of unconditional support and loyalty, whether it’s reciprocated or not. It’s all so heavy. And it all goes back to the fact that the three of them were once just helpless children.

If she couldn’t take care of her sisters, how is she supposed to take care of any child, ever?

Nesta releases a weary sigh. “You’re going to bring this up the next time we have the baby talk, aren’t you?”

Lana’s eyes sparkle. “Don’t get ahead of yourself just yet.” But Nesta can see from where she sits that her therapist’s notepad is covered in bullet points.

***

“I need to use the bathroom.” Feyre is hopping back and forth on her feet once the session is over. “You guys head down to the parking lot without me.” She exits in a rush, leaving the two sisters alone. Nesta hisses in frustration, nearly chasing after Feyre so she won’t have to face the inevitable awkward conversation with Elain.

By the end of the session, it was Elain that broke and pleaded with Nesta, “Don’t do everything we want, then. Just keep doing better, the way you’ve already been doing. I’ll be happy with just that.”

Nesta was surprised that Elain had even noticed her efforts, but she retorted, “And how do you plan to do better?”

To which Elain twirled her hair and murmured something halfheartedly about, “I might be more open to taking criticism or whatever.”

Though it was the absolute bare minimum, it was still a relief for Nesta to hear Elain admit that she has flaws worth criticizing.

Now, Nesta clutches the straps of her purse and turns for the stairwell leading to the parking lot. Elain follows without comment.

Inside the stairwell, Nesta asks, “Have you spoken to Azriel since he left Velaris?”

Elain looks surprised at the sudden question, and doesn’t remember to be guarded when she answers, “No. Why?”

Nesta shrugs, her heels thumping loudly on the linoleum stairs. “Because I know what happened between you two. I know why he left.”

Elain halts midstep, grabbing Nesta’s arm and turning to face her with wide eyes. “What do you mean, you know? He told you?”

“He told Cassian, and Cassian told me.” Nesta hardly cares that she’s being a poor friend to Azriel by spilling all this to Elain, and continues, “If I had known he was such a coward, I would have kicked him out of our place a long time ago… but I figured I would get your input on it first.”

She’s never seen Elain look so genuinely pleading before. “Get my input on what?” Elain breathes. “What did he say about me? Was it something I did?”

At that torn face that borders on heartbroken, Nesta decides that she’ll do more than kick Azriel out of the cabin. She’ll kick him off the whole mountain.

She shoves Elain’s back to get Elain detached from her and moving down the stairs again, and as they walk, Nesta spills everything she knows. She tells Elain about Rhysand’s talent of shoving his nose into places it doesn’t belong, and how one conversation with him managed to convince Azriel to ditch Elain for good. She tells her about how instead of having a straightforward conversation with Elain, Azriel chose to leave the city and hide out in the mountains like a pussy. She might sound blunt, but Elain needs blunt. She needs to know the unfiltered truth of things.

By the time they reach the floor where their cars are parked, Elain is silent. “Did he really say that?” she finally asks quietly. “He said he wants me to hate him?”

“That’s what I heard.” After a moment, Nesta feels the need to add, “You should hate him, though. He fucked up bad.”

When Elain continues strolling for their cars without replying, concern bites at Nesta. “You are mad at him, right? And mad at Rhysand? You’re not going to forgive them, right?”

“I’m not a total pushover,” Elain snaps. She stares at the cement ground as they walk. “I’m just… more disappointed than anything else. He gave up so easily.” She chuckles without humor. “It sounds like he was looking for an excuse to get away from me.”

Nesta frowns. “I don’t think he would’ve spent so long moping around our house if he wanted to leave you.” Though they can never truly know what Azriel was thinking or feeling until he grows a pair and talks to Elain. Still, she shudders at having to defend him.

“I take it he doesn’t mope anymore?” Elain says.

Nesta doesn’t know how to answer that truthfully. She knows there’s more to Azriel than he lets her and Cassian see, and she knows he’s gotten better at keeping his feelings to himself. So she says, “It looks like he’s doing better, but I really don’t know.” They reach Elain’s car.

“Were you in love with him?” Nesta suddenly asks. Or worse, is she still in love with him?

Elain digs around for her keys in her purse. “You know how I am. Of course I was.”

“Not anymore, though?”

Elain looks up, keys now in hand. “It’s hard to still feel love for someone I haven’t talked to in two months.”

Then it wasn’t real love. Nesta is relieved, even though it doesn’t change the fact that Elain is hurting either way.

Elain jabs her keys at Nesta and says sharply, “Don’t you dare punish him for what he did. That’s for me to decide on.”

Nesta’s brow creases in refusal. “I’ll do what I need to do, and you do you.” She’ll have to be careful with her plotting, though, considering Azriel is Cassian’s brother.

“No.” Elain surprises Nesta with the force in her tone. “He’s your roommate and your friend. Keep treating him like it.”

Elain makes it sound easier than it is, and Nesta wants to argue until she sees Feyre heading down the parking lot toward them. “Fine,” she grumbles halfheartedly.

Elain gives her one final long look, not of threat but something else. “Thank you—for inviting us today.” That’s all she says before getting in the driver’s seat of her little red car. At the same time, Feyre catches up to them.

“Where are you parked?” Feyre pants as she approaches Nesta. She sounds a bit out of breath, like she ran to get here before Nesta could drive off alone.

Nesta points down the lot to where her scrappy old car is waiting for her, and Feyre straightens up with a grim smile. “I’ll walk you.”

Nesta knows that arguing isn’t worth it, so she allows Feyre to trail her the rest of the way to her car. Once they reach the old thing, Nesta gives a curt goodbye and heads straight for the driver’s door. Before she can touch the handle, Feyre attacks her from behind with a hug.

“Get off me, freak!” Nesta tries to jostle her way out of Feyre’s arms. She tries being nice to her sisters one time and this is what she gets—

Feyre only squeezes her tighter. “You don’t have to hug back. Just let me love you my way.”

Nesta squirms for another second before stilling. Swallowing tightly, she stares at the reflection of herself and Feyre in the car door window. One of her hands goes to where Feyre’s hands are clasped around her stomach, and she stands there without moving. She can’t remember the last time she shared affection with a family member like this, but it must have been before their mother died.

The warmth at Nesta’s back doesn’t leave, like Feyre is trying to pour all her understanding into the hug. Silently saying, I’m finally starting to get it.

In a way, Nesta is starting to get it, too. After all, how do sisters with such a complicated history begin to forgive each other?

Not by apologizing, but by doing better in the future.

***

On her way home, Nesta remembers at the last minute to stop by Gwyn’s apartment to pick up one of her sweaters. She doesn’t know when Gwyn started raiding her closet like it was a free mall, but she has a school event next week and doesn’t plan on letting her nicest clothes rot at Gwyn’s forever.

Nesta enters using the key beneath the doormat, knowing Gwyn is at work and won’t mind her stopping by. She scans the living and dining areas for a glimpse of brown cashmere, but only finds scattered books and a disorganized mess. Her fingers twitch with the urge to stop and tidy up the place, but she continues hunting for the sweater. Gwyn promised it would be waiting in plain sight for her.

Realizing the scatter-brained girl probably forgot to put the sweater out for her, Nesta pauses in the hallway leading to Gwyn’s bedroom and bites her lip. She doesn’t know if bedrooms are off limits or not, considering how often Gwyn and Emerie have barged into hers, but she knows she doesn’t want to make a second trip here just for a sweater.

Without giving it further thought, she strides into Gwyn’s room—

And yelps to find Gwyn on the bed.

Except she isn’t alone, and there’s definitely another body under the dark green blanket with her, and whoever it is definitely has their head between her legs.

Nesta spins away at the same time she hears Gwyn’s cry of surprise. She braces one hand against the doorjamb and presses the other to her freezing cold face, not having any words for what she just saw.

“Nesta?” Gwyn calls from behind her. “What the hell are you doing here?”

“Um, have you seen my sweater? It’s the expensive one.” She’ll just grab it and leave. Or maybe she’ll just leave—yes, that sounds like a good idea.

“Nesta?” a new, deeper voice repeats.

Gwyn hisses, and Nesta freezes because she recognizes that voice. She wants to be wrong so badly, but she has to whirl back around to confirm for herself.

“Azriel?”

***

a/n: i decided to cut this chapter short and add an extra one to flesh out my silly little gwynriel subplot. so if there’s anything specific or random you wanna see happen in the next chapter tell me bc i might have space for prompts!!

tagging: @hellasblessed @sjm-things @thewayshedreamed @drielecarla @valkyriewarriors @superspiritfestival @aliveahaahahafuck @cupcakey00 @sayosdreams @rainbowcheetah512 @claralady @thebluemartini @nessiantho @missing-merlin @duskandstarlight @lucy617 @sleeping-and-books @everything-that-i-love @cassianscool @swankii-art-teacher @wannawriteyouabook a favor: @awesomelena555 @julemmaes @wickedqueenoffantasy @poisonous-bloom @observationanxioustheorist @gisellefigue08 @courtofjurdan @theoverlyenthusiasticwriter @wolfiixxx @cass-nes @seashade @royaltykxx @illyrianundercover @queenestarcheron @monstrousloves-explodinggalaxies @humanexile @that-golden-lyre @agentsofsheilds @mercy-is-alive @cassiansbigwingspan @laylaameer01 @verypaleninja @maastrash @bow-dawn @perseusannabeth @dead-on-the-inside666 @jlinez @hungryreadingaddict @anidealiveson @planet-faerie @shallowhighwaters @ghostlyrose2 @chosenfamily-valkyriequeens @rarephloxes @readiajin @nessiantrashh @live-the-fangirl-life @ifinallygavein @xoblivisci @sjmships @jungtaekwoonie-is-life @lysandra-tiara @lanyjoy-13 @frosted-crackers @post-it-notes33 @loosingdreams @fromthelibraryofemilyj @18moneytoad @dontgetsalmonella @champanheandluxxury @togreblog @arinbelle @ladygabrielli1997 @meridainthedisneyland @moodymelanist @pixieelea

#ncssianwrites #a favor #nesta archeron #nessian #cassian #nessian fic #nessian au

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dreamerstreamer · 4 years ago

Text

Never Meant To Be Yours

Pairing: Wilbur Soot x gn!reader

Summary: [Dream SMP!AU] Wilbur Soot’s heart may belong to you, but yours? Well...

Warnings: some cursing (hi, Tommy) + one scene with slight violence

Word Count: 3.5k

A/N: i realized that i hadn’t written a story that was strictly just angst, so... ta-da! this story takes place during the betrayal of l’manberg. inspired by both the events of the smp and also heathers: the musical. remember folks: pog through the pain <3

The campfire crackled and popped as Wilbur tossed another stick into the roaring flames, the embers leaping up and soaring into the starry night sky. His eyebrow twitched in annoyance as Tommy opened his mouth again.

“I’m fucking telling you, Wilbur. Just let me sharpen some sticks and I can win this war for L’Ma—”

Wilbur sighed, reaching over to rip the two branches from Tommy’s hands. “Tommy, if you pick up another set of sticks one more time, I will throw your discs into the fire.”

Tommy gasped, absolutely appalled that he would even suggest it. “Big man, you wouldn’t fucking dare—”

“No,” Tubbo said, smiling as he threw some more kindle into the fire, “I’m pretty sure he would.”

“Oh, he definitely would,” Fundy confirmed, his tail swishing this way and that as he looked on in amusement.

Tommy frowned, snatching another stick from the firewood pile and turning to glare at Wilbur from where he sat on his log. “Fucking fight me for them, you beanie bitch.”

Wilbur stared back, unimpressed and his patience wearing thin. “Tommy,” he said, “I’m not doing this, again.”

“Oh? Are you scared of my sharpness 1000 sti—”

Without even an ounce of hesitation, Wilbur grabbed Tommy by his arms and hoisted him into the air, his feet dangling dangerously close to the campfire. Fundy hooted as Tommy let out a piercing scream, Tubbo watching with wide eyes and a grin on his face as the flames licked at the soles of his shoes. “I swear to fucking god, Tommy,” Wilbur nearly shouted, “I am going to drop you into the fi—”

“You lot seem like you’re having fun.”

Wilbur froze, Tommy practically melting in his arms in relief. “Thank the lord, I’m saved,” he muttered.

You walked over to the group with a small wave and a bashful grin. In an instant, Wilbur had released Tommy, dropping him back onto the log as he walked over to you. The irritation seeped out of his bones as he took in the sight of your face, your eyes glowing in the golden light of the campfire.

“You’re finally here,” he said, leaning over to press a quick peck to your cheek before sitting once more.

You giggled, settling into the space next to him. “Hi.”

Beside you, Tommy made a gagging noise. “Jesus Christ, you guys are actually fucking gross. I would never do some shit like that.”

You gave him a quizzical look. “But Tommy,” you pointed out, “I thought you loved women. Don’t you want to date one, one day?”

“I do love women!” Tommy confirmed. “And I respect them! But you know me, [Y/N].” He patted his chest, smirking with pride. “I’m married to the grind.”

You tilted your head at him, bemused. “Are you, now?”

He nodded with full confidence. “Of course I am!”

“And you didn’t invite me to the wedding?”

Tommy shot you a condescending look. “The grind and I have been married far longer than you and Wilbur have even been together—hell, I��d say we’re a better fucking couple than you two!”

You feigned a gasp and turned to your lover with a dramatic pout. “Hey, Will? Do you hear that? Tommy says his marriage to the grind is better than our relationship.”

Wilbur paused for a moment, blinking, then shrugged. “Well, that’s an easy fix.”

Confusion flashed across Tommy’s face. “How?”

Wilbur stood up and turned to look at you, a serious expression crossing his face. “I suppose we’ll just have to get married.”

You felt your jaw drop, a wave of shock running through you as Tommy sputtered, “Pfft—what the fuck?”

Taking a deep breath, you sighed, rubbing your temples. “Will,” you said, “getting married in the middle of a war doesn’t exactly sound like the best idea you’ve had.”

“But Wilbur never has good ide—”

“Well,” Wilbur said, cutting Tommy off, “how else are we going to beat Tommy and the grind?”

You cocked a brow at him. “Are you implying that are relationship isn’t already stronger than Tommy’s with the grind? That we have to prove it?”

Now it was Wilbur’s turn to sputter. “No, uh, I’m just, um—”

“Will,” you said again, “you realize you have a son that we both care for, right?”

Wilbur paused. “Oh. Right.”

You could see Fundy groan from the other side of the campfire, hanging his head in his hands. “Jeez, thanks, dad.”

Wilbur flashed his son a bright grin. “You’re welcome, son.” He whirled, triumphantly pointing at Tommy’s face. “See? Do you and the grind have a physical representation of your love in the form of another living being?”

Tommy’s face contorted in disgust. “Wilbur, what the fuck, no. I’m a fucking minor.”

The smile dropped from Wilbur’s face like a dead fly. “Oh. Right.”

Tubbo let out a whistle, raising his fist in the air. “Aaand, scene! That’s a point for Tommy!” He shook his head apologetically at the general. “Sorry, Wilbur, but you lose.”

Wilbur looked offended. “How did I lose? [Y/N] and I have a Fundy!”

Tubbo’s expression shifted to something more serious. “Didn’t you know that I’m a lawyer, Wilbur? You don’t mess with the law.”

Fundy let out another groan as Tommy howled in delight. “Oh, no.”

“Big Law is back!”

It didn’t take long for the bickering to start up again, and you found yourself zoning out, simply smiling and nodding every once in a while. A lone crow squawked in the trees above you, and you cast your gaze up at the night sky, watching as the campfire sparks danced and faded into the shadows above. Something stirred deep within your chest.

It really was a lovely night, and you were surrounded by some lovely people, even if they were rather chaotic. With the campfire keeping you warm and their peals of laughter tugging at your lips, you almost felt sad.

Only a few more days remained of this idyllic life. Just a few days more until—

“[Y/N]? Are you okay?”

Wilbur’s worried voice drew you out of your thoughts and you turned to face him, plastering a small smile to your face. “Yep! Just thinking.”

He leaned down to peer closer at you, his gaze scanning your face. “What about?”

You averted your eyes from his, your cheeks dancing with warmth. “About you.”

He grinned and pulled you into his chest, ignoring the way Tommy pretended to choke at the sight. You giggled, your hands wrapped around Wilbur’s arm in return as he held you close.

High above you, the stars winked down at you from the pitch black sky, waiting and watching to see what came next.

Wilbur sighed, staring down at the map on his desk.

Just how was he going to stage an attack on a nation as large as the Dream SMP? Every opening would have been accounted for, and Dream was not a foe to be taken lightly. Even if all of them came in, bows blazing and swords drawn, Dream was still very much capable of taking them on, even by himself. That, he knew, and that was what weighed him down.

He slumped over, dragging a hand over his face. What in the world was he going to do?

A knock sounded at his door, startling him out of his thoughts.

“Knock knock,” you greeted, leaning against the doorframe with a smile. “You doing alright in there?”

Wilbur offered you a tired smile. “Not really, if I’m being honest.”

You stepped inside, slipping into the seat next to his. “What’s going on? Tell me.”

He sighed. “It—It’s just that the odds are so incredibly stacked against us.” His eyes were sad as he stared blankly down at the parchment. “It makes me wonder, is freedom even attainable, or is it just another one of my silly pipe dreams?”

You frowned, reaching over to stroke his face with the back of your hand. “Freedom is more than just a dream, Will. You know that.” You squeezed his shoulder. “Fundy is living proof of that. Your son is living proof of that. He was born in these walls, remember?” Your voice dropped to a whisper, and it sent a shiver down his spine. “He was born free.”

You pulled away from him, sending him a sugary grin. “We can become free, Will. I know you can do it. You’re not alone. You have me. You have us.”

His smiled crookedly at you. “Even Tommy?”

The look in your eyes was kind as you giggled. “Yes, even Tommy. I’m sure of it. Why else would you have made him your right hand man?”

He chuckled, turning his attention away from the map and onto you. “You’re right. You always know how to make me feel better, [Y/N].”

You offered him a small smile. “I try my best.”

The two of you set into a comfortable silence for a moment or two with you watching Wilbur strategically move pieces across the map while he jotted down notes on a slip of paper. It was only after a few minutes had passed when you spoke up once more.

“Hey,” you said softly, reaching over his ink well to slip your hand in his, “I want to show you something that’ll make you feel even better.”

He raised an eyebrow at you, his hand freezing on its quill. “Oh?”

You nodded, smiling sweetly at him. “I’ve been working on it for a little while, and I really think it’ll help us win that freedom of ours.”

He smiled at you, his gaze fond as he stood, setting his quill on the table. “Let me gather the men and I’ll be right there.”

It only took him a few minutes for him to rally everyone together, although he did have to silence Tommy when he let loose a string of curses yelling about his dedication to the grind. In practically no time, the whole battalion stood in front of you, eager to see what you had in store.

“Alright,” Wilbur said, bowing towards you, “lead the way.”

You grinned, jokingly curtsying back before turning on you heel, a skip lining your step as you strode toward a small tree sitting near the edge of the walls. “If you come down here,” you began, sliding down the side of the hill to point behind the tree, “you’ll see that there’s actually a small entranceway here.”

Wilbur’s eyes widened in surprise. There really was a hole in the hill dug out just here. He wondered just when you made it. “How the fuck did you keep this hidden from us?” Tommy muttered, squinting as you led them inside. “You didn’t even try to hide the fucking door.”

You shrugged, still strolling comfortably. “It was pretty out of the way and it faces the wall itself, so you weren’t likely to spot it, anyways. I didn’t really think it was necessary.”

The walls were dark and dank, lit up only be the occasional torch, but even then it was still dim. “This is a long tunnel,” Tubbo murmured after they had been walking for a minute or two, his head swiveling this way and that as he took in his surroundings.

You laughed. “Well, this place was pretty well-hidden, if I do say so myself.” Suddenly, you stopped, turning to look at the rest of the group. “Well, lads, here it is.”

You stepped in and to the side, and Wilbur gasped.

Lying just within the hill was a grand room. Every surface was made of smooth, polished, black bricks, and pale blue lanterns hung from each corner of the room, emitting a faint light that painted the room in an enchanting glow. Chests lined the walls, and in the center of the room sat a single button atop a panel.

Wilbur was floored—he had no idea when you had built all this.

“What is this place?” Fundy asked, his dark eyes wide with awe.

You hummed, tapping a finger on your chin as you strode to the middle of the room. “Well, I guess you could call it a secret base, but I’ve been calling it the final control room.” Something glinted in your eyes. “I spent a lot of time gathering resources and forging weaponry that we can use to fight.” You pointed at each labelled box with delight. “Look—you each have your own chest!”

Wilbur felt his heart swell with pride. Just when he didn’t think you could be any more perfect, you just had to shatter his expectations.

Everyone split apart, each rushing toward their respective chest with anticipation thrumming in their fingertips. Wilbur grinned as he reached his, unlatching the clasp on the front and flipping the lid open to reveal... nothing.

There wasn’t anything in the chest.

Uneasiness seeped into his stomach.

“[Y/N],” he said slowly, turning to look at you, “these chests are empty.”

You still stood in the center of the room, sending him that same sweet smile you always did.

“I know,” you said, lifting your hand to hover over the singular button lying on the control panel.

Something like terror struck his heart.

“[Y/N]?” he whispered.

It was only then that he noticed how cold your eyes were.

“It was never meant to be.”

What came next happened so quickly that Wilbur almost didn’t process it. He watched as your hand slammed down on the button, and a hole in the wall opened up to reveal the Dream SMP, their swords unsheathed and armour polished to shining. Screams rang out all around him, echoing in the tiny chamber of the so-called final control room. He could only watch in horror as his men were slaughtered at his side until a sword pierced his chest as well.

With a pained gasp, he looked up to you as he fell back, disbelief and the pure, utter pain of betrayal sinking into his veins while he coughed for air.

You still wore that saccharine smile of yours, the one he had fallen for long, long ago. Something menacing shone in your eyes.

He wondered how you could still be smiling at a time like this as his world went dark.

Wilbur awoke with a gasp, lurching forward with wide eyes. Panting, his hand flew to his chest, grasping at where he was just stabbed—or had been stabbed. His shoulders sank in relief as his fingertips met unmarred skin and the softness of his shirt, a sigh escaping his lips.

Coming back after death never really got any easier after the first time. He could only wonder what Tommy and Tubbo were going through—they were so young.

“Oh, you’re awake.”

Wilbur’s head shot to the side, his eyes briefly noting the fact that he was indeed lying on the bed in his room. On the opposite side of the room, you sat on a wooden chair, a book clutched between your fingertips. Something warm flitted through his chest as his eyes met yours, and he almost felt glad to see you.

Almost.

“What are you doing here?” he spat, a cruelty he had never felt for you before brewing within his gut. “Why are you even here?”

You blinked innocently at him, shutting the book in your hands and setting it on the table next to you. It was the declaration of independence, he noted with disgust. He felt sick knowing that you held it in yours hands, that you even signed it at all.

“I’m keeping you company,” you said casually, as if nothing had happened at all, as if you hadn’t just gotten him killed. “I didn’t want you to be lonely.”

Rage ripped through him, roaring through him like a wildfire. With shoulders shaking with agony, he tore the sheets from off his legs. “‘Didn’t want me to be lonely’?” he parroted mockingly as he stood to his full height. His glare was as cold as ice. “Is this some sick joke to you?”

You tilted your head at him, your mouth remaining a straight line—hard and firm. “Not particularly, no.”

That was when it hit him—when everything came crashing into him all at once.

You had sold them out.

You had abandoned them.

Did you mean anything you ever said to him? Did you ever really love him? Were your kisses ever real? Did his love really mean nothing to you?

“[Y/N],” he breathed, horror wracking his every word, “what have you done?”

You stared at him, your expression blank and unreadable—an impenetrable wall standing between him and your psyche. He hated it. He hated how unreadable you were in this moment, and his anger older burned brighter.

“What were you thinking?” he shouted, his voice growing louder and louder. He ran a hand through his dishevelled hair, pushing it away from his soot-stained face. “We were going to get married. We—we were going to start a new life together. With Tommy, and Tubbo. Niki. Fundy, my son.” His eyes flashed. “Our son. Whatever happened to that?”

He sank to his knees, suddenly feeling very tired. The fire burned out, and an indescribable sense of sadness flowed in instead, flooding every inch of his being. He felt his eyes begin to water as you simply stared down at him, unfeeling and harsh. His voice cracked.

“[Y/N], why?”

There was no denying what you had done. He had seen it with his own two eyes, had watched a wicked glint creep into your gaze as you pressed the button and vanished.

You were a traitor, through and through, yet he still could not fathom why.

Suddenly, you took a stood, taking a slow and deliberate step toward him. Wilbur’s breath hitched in his throat as he saw you draw closer and closer, his heart pounding in his ears. Even after all that you’d done, after you’d betrayed him, his heart still yearned for you—still ached for you.

Just a step before you reached him, you stopped, crouching down to be level with him. For a moment, you simply stared at him with those eyes—those eyes he loved so, so much. Then, you opened your mouth.

“Wilbur,” you murmured, soft enough only for him to hear. “Oh, my darling, lovely Wilbur.”

Your voice was sickly sweet, dripping like honey that stuck to the roof of his mouth. He swallowed, the tiniest flicker of hope igniting in his heart. Perhaps this was all just some big misunderstanding, some prank that you were pulling on him—you always did love your mischief.

You smiled at him, the glimmer in your eyes wicked and unkind as you stood up. The sun hung just behind you in the sky, framing your face in a heavenly glow.

In another life, you would have looked like an angel.

“I was never meant to be yours.”

His heart shattered.

The tears were now freely streaming down his cheeks, running down like tiny rivers. He half-hoped that he would drown in them, that he would never have to see your beautifully wretched face again for as long as he lived.

Bending over, you pressed a soft kiss to his forehead, pulling away just a second later after gently patting his head. The spot where your lips met his skin burned, and he hated himself for wishing you would stay.

You strode over to the door, swinging it open with one last glance over your shoulder and an empty half-smile. “Goodbye, Will.”

The door closed. Wilbur stared at the solid oak wood, feeling an abyss open up inside him.

Gone—you were gone.

And he was left alone.

So much for getting married.

“Was it worth it?”

You stopped swinging your legs from the gold throne you sat upon and cast a glance up at Dream, his green eyes boring into you from where he was perched on the chandelier. How he got up there, you still had no idea.

“Was what worth it?” you asked, examining a diamond between your fingers.

He cocked his head at you, gesturing to the castle surrounding the two of you. “This life. Your new title. You gave up so much for them, after all.” He began counting off on his fingers, his lips quirking. “You faked a relationship with Wilbur, pretended to love his son, befriended that brat, Tommy, and then blew it all to smithereens for the crown on your head.”

His gaze flickered back to yours. “Well?” he said again. “Was it worth it?”

You looked at him for a long moment, your expression pensive.

You thought of soft, brown curls tickling against your face as you awoke on the couch. You thought of fluttering laughter and bashful giggles. You thought of a pearly white grin flashing at you from the other side of the campfire. You thought of an old acoustic guitar that was almost always just a little out of tune. You thought of gentle kisses pressed to hands, cheeks, necks, and mouths.

You thought of Wilbur Soot.

And you smiled and felt nothing.

“Yes.”

821 notes · View notes

mystic-sky · 4 years ago

Text

part 1 here.

You stirred awake as the sun crept onto the bare back of the man you clung to. His arm was draped over you, chest heaving softly. You looked up at him. Even while he slept he was gorgeous. You could only imagine what you looked like right now. Your brain flashed back to everything that happened the night before.

He fucked you. Spectacularly well.

You did your best to slip from underneath his grasp without waking him. Slowly but surely, you released yourself from his grip. You didn’t think he’d be a heavy sleeper.

Your feet lightly touched the carpet and you crept towards bathroom. Immediately, pristine and cool tiles laid beneath you as you fathomed over his personal bathing space. You looked around before finding your reflection over the bathroom sink.

“Look what he did to me.” You panic, hickeys panted your neck and chest. You ran your fingertips over the bruised skin.

“I was so into it, I didn’t even think to ask him not to leave any marks.” You whisper quietly as you facepalm yourself.

You used the bathroom and washed your hands promptly before peaking out the door at the beast in his bed. He was still fast asleep, snoring just barely.

What a fucking princess, you thought. He remained beautiful even in slumber. His hair was disheveled a bit, but he was still gorgeous.

You crept back into bed, wanting to slide beneath his arms again without waking him.

You pouted, laying on your side of the bed neutrally and watching him rest. You couldn’t even attempt to go back to sleep- you couldn’t stop looking at him. You liked this quieter version of him so much. It was almost hard for you to come to terms with the fact of what he was capable of in bed. The things he had already done to you made your face hot.

And then you remembered your declaration of how good the sex was, telling him you’d come back soon. You felt out of your mind. You covered your face from utter embarrassment. Of course you wanted to see him again, but it ticked you off a bit that he predicted that it’d be this way.

Pulling your hands down halfway across your face, your eyes laid on his sleeping frame. You still couldn’t fathom why he liked you. You’d be sure to ask him why later. You could only imagine what dating him would be like. Would he pick you up from work? Did he have siblings for you to meet? What were his favorite foods- and did you even know how to make them?

What was the actual deal with his eyes? Your glance pivoted towards his long white eyelashes. Would he eventually tell you everything? Would he be willing to?

When you instinctively found yourself bringing a hand to touch his face his eyes shot open.

“Boo!”

You jumped, nearly falling backwards off the bed as a loud shriek fell from you lips.

“What is wrong with you?” You clutched your chest as he let out a deep laugh.

“You stare a lot. I could feel your eyes burning a hole through my body.” He finally said after his good laugh, sitting up.

“I can’t help it.” You said, sucking both your lips into a line. You bit down shyly as you gripped the ends of the t-shirt you wore.

“I never said I minded.” He slid closer to you.

“Wow, you’re even cute with bed hair.” He added.

“How long have you been awake?” You blush, changing the subject.

“Since you left me all alone to go potty.” He pouted. Your eye twitched.

“You creep!” You say, clutching a pillow and swinging it at him.

“I was hoping you were going to cuddle with me again, but then you just laid there ogling at me. Again, I don’t blame you.” He said, bringing a thumb to your chin. You could’ve rolled your eyes, but he was so close all you could think about was him kissing you again. You hoped he would, you were antsy and yearning for a repeat of the prior night’s events.

“What?” You finally said, anxiously breaking the silence.

He blinked softly at you before speaking, “How sweet do you like your coffee?”

You blinked a few times, earning a grin from him.

“I- Sweet enough?” You blurted. Your mind had wandered off just from him getting close to you like that. “Two sugars I guess, and whatever creamer you’ve got works.”

“I tend to go a bit overboard. So I’ll let you add the stuff you like.” He chuckled, slipping out of the bed.

“Let me get you some stuff.” He walked towards the linen closet. You could see him in the hallway from the bedroom. He came back with a tooth brush and towel.

“Everything else is in the bathroom.” He said, handing you the toiletries.

“Thanks a lot.” You say, getting up on your feet. You hugged the towel to your chest.

“Holler if you need me. Unless you wanna shower together-

“No.” You say, skidding past him. You walked down the hall, feeling a little shy to shower in his master bathroom.

“Aww, you’re breaking my heart (Name)-chan.” He called out.

“You’ll survive.” You say, you could feel his eyes on you as you nervously stepped into the other bathroom.

“I can help you figure out how to turn on the water~”

“I can manage~” You sing back, shutting the door.

He’s got all his stuff in the other bathroom, you thought. You placed the towel and toothbrush on the sink counter.

“I’ll give him a little space.” You needed a little bit too, you felt frantic at the idea of bathing with him. You had no idea why that felt too intimate and steamy for you. The idea of him bathing you, sudsing your slippery wet body- you knew you were going to fold and let him fuck you if he tried. That or you’d initiate it yourself.

But it was probably the inevitable sweetness that would follow afterwards that scared you mostly. How playful you knew he would be as he bathed you after you both would cum. He’d probably give you kisses and make fun of you and your inability to stop looking so cute and embarrassed all the time.

Were you ready for intimacy like that? To make you fall in love with him? Heck, you briefly remember him telling you that you might fall for him when he was sexing you hours ago.

You patted your face with your palms repeatedly.

“You’re thinking too much.” You said to yourself before, looking into the large bathroom mirror.

“I be he’s not overthinking at all. He’s probably nonchalant as fuck right now.” You whispered, finding the toothpaste. You brushed your teeth promptly before removing your shirt. You slid the shower door open and stepped inside, fiddling with the knobs for the right temperature. There were soaps you were and weren’t familiar with.

Does he really live alone? You found it hard to believe that he was this attractive and single.

Maybe some women can’t take his vain personality, you thought.

After what felt like a long shower from contemplating your decisions from the night prior, you exited the bathroom. You clutched the towel around your damp body as you walked back into his bedroom. You could hear him in the shower, but you saw he had laid out clothes on the bed.

“Those are for you.” He called out, making you jump. You didn’t realize he heard you walk into the bedroom.

You stared at the matching hoodie and sweatpants on the bed. He was perfectly content with lending you his clothes and that made your chest warm.

You found your bra and put it on. You wished you had fresh underwear, but at the same time you’d probably throw up in your mouth a bit if he had that to give to you too.

You slid on the gray sweat pants, tying the jaw string as tight as you could around your waist so they’d fit. Followed by the hoodie, you pulled your hair out the hem of it and looked in the mirror attempting to primp yourself up the best you could. Why does wearing this make it feel like I’m his girlfriend, you thought.

He had good taste in clothes, you hoped this wasn’t his favorite.

“The slides are for you, too.” You heard him say in the doorway. His hair was still dripping wet but out of his of his face and pushed back. He gripped the towel around his torso before walking up to one of his drawers.

“What slides- oh.” You peer down at the black sandals beside the bed.

“I’ve got socks for you, too. You’re about to look like a little me~” He cooed. He seemed happy to dress you up and you stood there awkwardly, cheeks red.

“Thanks. I was fine with going home in my dress though.”

“I was too. You looked so good in it.” He said, walking over and handing you a pair of socks. “But I also want you to be comfortable.”

“I’ll be sure to give them back.” You said nervously, bawling your fists under the long lengths of your sleeves.

“The sooner I get to see you again, the better.” He says smugly, closing the space between you both.

“What is it that you like about me exactly?” You look up at him.

“You’re even more direct in the day time.” He said, nearly brushing his nose against yours.

“I’m serious.” You say through crimson cheeks.

“I just gave you one reason.” He laughs, throwing his head back. “I like how forward you are, too. It’s tasteful, so it doesn’t feel like I’m talking to a brick.”

“Mhmm,” you crossed your arms, coaxing him to go on.

“You’re super adorable. Seriously, you haven’t stopped blushing at me. I could make fun of you forever. And you take the teasing so well so far. It’s kind of hard for people to deal with my overbearing personality sometimes.”

“The list can and will be endless... if you let me take you to dinner this weekend.”

“I- wow..” you stutter. He really seemed to genuinely like you. You didn’t find his personality overbearing in the slightest. In fact, to you it made him more attractive. And the fact that he was able to turn it off at the right moments to convey that he is thinking of you made your heart swell.

“Did you not expect me to ask you right away?”

“I did not.”

He let out another laugh.

“Unless you have plans, or work. Let me know. I can work around it.”

“I think I can fit you into my schedule.” You shoot back one of his signature smug smiles.

“You’re for real becoming a mini me.” He said, wrapping his arms around you.

“You’re gonna get me all wet.” You say as some of his damp strands press against your forehead.

“Honey, I do that already.” His voice low, pressing his lips against yours. You had wanted him to kiss you so bad, you were so happy he initiated it. You brought a hand into his wet tresses, pressing him into the kiss. He moaned against your mouth as he brought one of his large hands to grab your ass, squeezing firmly.

You did a little yelp into his mouth before pulling away, “Your dick is stabbing me in the stomach.”

“Oops,” He said, before pressing a quick kiss against your lips. He let go of you, before pulling his towel off his lower half, drying his hair a bit more throughly.

“Let me get dressed, and then I’ll make you breakfast. Or we could go out. Your pick.” He said.

“You aren’t the least bit shy, are you?” You say as your gaze drops to his member.

“Maybe I was in grade school. There are some things you grow out of.” He said, turning his body and walking towards his closet.

“For most people, this is not one of them.” You turn away, walking out the door and giving him the privacy he didn’t even ask for.

“(Name)-chan, maybe I wanted to put on a show for you.” He called out.

“Get dressed.” You found your way to his living room, plopping your body on the suede couch. Everything was too nice, and you did your best not to touch anything while your eyes ogled around the place. You could see some antiques plastered with his last name on the shelves.

So he really is a big shot, you thought. You’d heard briefly of the Gojo family’s financial successes but nothing more. It sort of explains his personality, but there were plenty of things still left unanswered.

He had pictures of himself all around going places with family and friends. You looked at some of the women in the photos, wondering if he had dated any of them or if they were relatives. This one photo in particular caught your eye. He was wearing a blindfold, smiling the biggest smile beside three awkward looking teenagers in private school uniforms. This looks recent, you think.

Right beneath it were three people in another photo- him being on the left wearing dark sunglasses and a small brunette girl in the middle. The third person to the right was male and almost as tall as him, with dark hair and black piercings. He has to be in high school here, you thought.

He didn’t change much, he still looked like a cocky bastard. You smiled a soft smile. He’s still a likable person if you can adapt well to his personality.

“I’m like 17 in that one.” His voice rang from behind you. You spun your head around. He had on an outfit similar to yours, with a black hoodie instead.

“How old are you now?” You ask, realizing you had no idea how old he was.

“28.” He said, walking through the open space towards the kitchen. Your mouth could’ve dropped, panning back towards the photo and towards him again.

“You look the same. Maybe a little taller? But the exact same.” You turn your body, draping your elbow over the couch to watch him as he fiddled through his cabinets.

“I’ve got good genes. The kids will be gorgeous.” He says slyly, placing two mugs on the counter. You roll your eyes, bringing yourself to your feet. You stride towards the kitchen, watching him pour the coffee into both mugs.

“That smells so good.” You say, swooning at the scent. He slid your mug towards you as you watched him toss several sugar cubes into his coffee.

Your eye twitches, “Is that really necessary?”

“You’ve been drinking coffee wrong your entire life I see.” He says casually, dumping more cubes into his cup. He finally mixes in the creamer before taking a sip.

“Fuck yes.” He breathes out.

“Major crackhead energy.” You laugh, putting normal amounts of cubes into your own cup.

“Don’t knock it til you try it.” He says, bringing his mug towards your lips. Your take hold of thing, but he’s not letting go. You think he’s enjoying your fingers touching his while you press your lips onto the edge of his cup. You take a sip before stepping back immediately wincing. He laughs deeply at you before putting the cup back to his own lips and taking a sip.

“You’re an actual crackhead-“ You scrunch your lips, “-what kind of manic sweet tooth, what the fuck?!”

He laughing heavier now, leaning on the counter.

“8.9/10.” You scoff, pertaining to his review you gave him earlier. He laughs harder.

“You’re too funny.” He raised his head, wiping a tear.

“I’ll gain the points back.” He flirted back through his chuckles.

You couldn’t help but smile at him. What a kiddish trait, it’s cute, you thought.

“Now, another question.” He managed to say, laughter finally subsiding. “How do you like your eggs?”

“Surprise me.” You say, sliding around to sit on the stool behind the island.

And with that he cooked you breakfast. The entire experience felt like a dream. You didn’t want to go back home. But you were sure your friends were wondering how your night was. You had your own life, but you were aching for him to be apart of it. You wondered what his world was like. Surely this was just a minuscule part of his week but what did he do for fun, what were his hobbies or favorite TV shows, does he stay up late or not? You wondered if he likes to sleep with the cool air on all the time. What were his turn ons and turn offs, and so much more.

You were starting to romanticize him a bit too much, and you’d be petrified if he could tell what you were thinking.

“That was delicious.” You say, eyes on his back as he placed the last dish in the dish rack.

“I’m a man who loves to please his guests.” He leant back on the sink, drying his hands. Just as he was about to speak his phone rang. He scooped it out of his pocket, picking it up.

“Good morning~” He sung. You pouted a bit, wondering if he was that cheery with everyone. He walked off, mouthing at you that he’d be right back.

You swung your legs on the stool, slouching a bit. Before you could continue feeling jealous of who was on the phone, he came back out, shoving his phone in his pocket.

“Well, that was work.” He let out a heavy sigh.

“Is everything okay?” You ask, turning your bum in the seat towards him.

“Not exactly. There’s a little emergency. So I’ve gotta bring you home now.” He says nonchalantly.

“Oh, okay. It’s alright.” You bawl your fists, feeling a bit disappointed. You were going home anyway but you wanted the moment to last as long as it could.

“I’m sorry.” He says, walking up to you in your chair, bringing a thumb to your chin. He tilted your head before speaking again.

“So I’m a teacher and I have to go check on one of my students. He’s not looking so good.” He sounded a little more happy than upset saying this. You cocked your eyebrow, happy he was finally laying some truth on you but slightly weirded out by his tone.

“He’s a bit of weird kid. He’s got a knack for getting himself in some odd situations. But he’s got potential. I believe in him.” He says, making you relax a little. You hoped the situation wasn’t dire- he wasn’t acting like it was anyways.

You nodded, realizing maybe it was one of the kids you saw in the photos.

“That’s really sweet.” You smile, rubbing your hands between your thighs.

“Let’s get your things. You need another bag for your clothes?” You nod. He was incredibly thoughtful.

Quickly after with your belongings in hand you follow him towards his front door. You watched him put on the darkest shade of sunglasses before grinning at you. Your heart was swelling, he looked so good you desperately wanted him to be yours. Your eyes dropped to your feet, trying to hide the high color on the apples of your cheeks.

“The cutest.” He said, pulling your chin up and pressing his lips against yours. “Don’t look so down. We’ll have more time together soon.”

You puffed up your cheeks before letting out a sarcastic sigh, rolling your eyes. All you wanted was to throw your arms around him, get naked and back in the bed. You briefly remembered that you had things to do today as well. Adulting is annoying, you thought.

“I want another kiss.” You were so whipped.

He obliged, pressing another sweet and delicate kiss to your lips.

“I’d give you some tongue but then I’d get worked up again.” You could see the sweet stare in his eyes when he a bent down over his shades.

“Mhmmm, and you don’t want to be late.” You say, using your hands to feel up on his chest.

“I’m now noticing you’re quite the tease, (Name).”

“Hmmm,” You say, flipping your hair. “That’s rich coming from you.”

You brazenly moved past him and opened the door. He passed his tongue over his lips.

He could get used to this.

******

You were back to your regular schedule. Everything felt somewhat mundane without him. You had only spent a few hours with him, but it was magical. Your head was empty aside from him constantly echoing in it whenever you spaced out. Your friends could tell he had done it to you. Completely and utterly entranced by him, you were at work doodling things when you should’ve been working, texting him when you shouldn’t have been texting, even fawning over him when you should’ve been sleeping.

It had been a few days since you last saw him. You didn’t dare call him. Instead, a lot of texting throughout the day. You were falling asleep with your phone in your hands at 3AM- yeah you had it bad. Of course he was busy, and your brain had been doing whirl winds thinking he simply didn’t want to talk to you at some moments, only to be bombarded with more texts of him explaining his whereabouts hours later.

On his end of things, he couldn’t stop thinking about you these past few days. Your voice played endlessly in his head. Things you would say and your sweet moans- all of them on repeat. His students could tell he was more chipper than usual (if that’s even possible) but somehow quieter and more deep in thought during some instances.

He couldn’t rid the thought of you from his brain. Your lips, the way you said his name. You were so delicate. He was anxious to call you but he was often tired after his long work day and dealing with his students. He sent you as many texts as he could. As soon as he was finally able to get back to you you were already fast asleep. He wanted you to call him so badly. He was confused as to why you didn’t.

You had just gotten home from work, fresh out the shower. You were doing your usual routine when you heard your phone go off. You nearly leapt towards your bed, towel nearly falling off your body.

You unlocked your phone to find a text from Satoru. You couldn’t stop grinning at the screen.

‘Hey sweets 😌❤️’

You anxiously tapped your fingers away, attempting to say hi and ask him what he was doing before your phone rang. You squealed, dropping the device onto to the bed.

“He’s calling me. He’s fucking calling me.”

You panicked, sliding up the bed away from your phone like it was some sort of cursed scroll. It may not have seemed like a big deal to some considering you slept with the man less than 72 hours prior. But he had never called you before, things felt so backwards. You really were crushing on him.

Realizing the phone had been ringing for too long, you crawled over to pick it up.

“Hello?” You said, holding the phone up to your ear.

“Heyy~” He sung. You could feel yourself getting weak in the knees.

“Hey.” You say casually, succeeding at hiding your nervousness.

“You’re off work right? What are you up to right now?” He asked. The background sounded quiet, you couldn’t guess where he was.

“Yeah. I got off a while ago. I just got out the shower.” You say, gripping your towel. You laid back on your bed, holding the phone to your ear.

“Nice, me too. I was wondering if you wanted to go grab something to eat. I’m starving right now.” He chirped.

Right now? He wanted to see you? Your were eager to say yes, scream yes, into the phone.

“You can’t wait til the weekend, star boy?” You tease.

“I like that name. We’re doing nicknames now?”

“You’ve been calling me sweetie, cutie, honey- I’m just getting started.”

“You can call me all the names you want tonight if you come get dinner with me.” He says.

“Definitely.” You say, excitedly swinging your legs above your body.

“Great, I’m outside.”

“What?”

“Parked out front.”

“What the...” you pull the phone from your ear, and walk towards the window angled towards the front of your house. There his car was, double parked in the street.

“What the hell?!” You exclaimed.

“You’re mad.” You say, letting out the loudest laugh. “What were you gonna do if I said no?”

“I knew you’d say yes. You miss me bad don’t you?”

You couldn’t deny it. You let out a flirty and sarcastic sigh and when silence filled the phone line soon after, he quickly followed up with,

“Cause I miss you real bad right now.”

You held your head with your free hand, a complete and utter blushing mess.

“I’ll be down in 10 minutes.”

“That’s what I like to hear. And it’s casual wear, so don’t stress.” He says smugly into the phone. How could you not stress?

You give him an ‘okay’ before hanging up and grabbing the nearest pillow, screaming into it. You swung your head back, letting out a loud, nervous breath.

He’s so crazy, you thought, smiling and holding your towel to your chest.

You quickly got dressed, finding your best booty hugging jeans and long sleeved v-neck ribbed shirt. You lightly did your makeup, and fixed your hair. You spritz yourself with your favorite scents and looked in the mirror.

“He’s so inconsiderate.” You say this but you can’t stop grinning. You throw a light jacket over your arm before sprinting to your front door, checking yourself in the mirror once more. You lock your door before attempting to casually walk to his car like you weren’t just in panic.

You open the door, sliding into the passenger seat.

“Hey,” you say, placing your jacket and purse on your lap.

“Damn, you look good.” He turned towards you, lip between his teeth whilst he grinned.

“Thank you.” You say, getting a good look at him. He had on blue, lightly distressed jeans and a sherpa lined jean jacket. He had a cool grey shirt underneath and another dark pair of shades encased in silver templates that helped push his hair back.

He had absolutely no right to look that good.

“You look good too,” You say, sliding some hair behind your ears.

“Thanks, sweetie.” He said, leaning over. He was centimeters from your face, breath panting over your lips. His eyes fixated on yours. You almost closed your eyelids in anticipation waiting for a kiss.

His arm reached past you, pulling your seatbelt over your body and fastening it.

“Safety first.” He said cheekily. This motherfucker.

“You thought I was gonna kiss you?” He smirked, leaning back in his seat.

“Shut up. Where are we eating?” You huff. He got you good.

“I was thinking BBQ.” He chuckled back.

“Unless you have a taste for somewhere else, I’m down for whatever if they have desserts.”

“BBQ works.” You say as he starts the car.

“Then I know just the place. It’s nice and low key, not too far from here. And they’re known for having the best ginger beer. The sweetest I’ve ever tasted.”

“Sounds good.” You smile, watching him turn on the radio.

“And more importantly, how was your day?” He panned his cerulean eyes towards you for just moment asking this, then back at the road.

“It was good. Nothing stressful, it was normal. How about you?”

“I’m glad.” He says. “My day was mediocre. I sent my students off early. They’ve been working their butts off. I figured they deserved it.”

“I get the feeling you wanted to slack off a little too, hence you finding the time to be here with me right now.” You teased.

“You could say that. I told you I missed you.” He reaches over, placing his large hand over yours. You tense up, not expecting him to display such a romantic gesture.

“Too much?” He asks.

“Not at all...” Your voice barely audible and fading under the music, but he heard it.

“Good.” He entwined his fingers over yours, massaging your knuckles with his thumb. The very sensation sends chills up your arms before your body relaxes. Not him making you melt from a simple hand hold.

Your heart was boucing against your rib cage. You prayed your palms wouldn’t start sweating underneath his warm hand. You bit back a smile as you both rode in comfortable silence.

“I hope you know dinner is still on this weekend.” He speaks up.

“It better be.” You say. “You still have time to improve your rating, especially after the atrocious coffee from the other day.”

He laughs lightly, “was it that bad?”

“Bad is too generous.”

“I bet you eat saltines when you’re craving.” He rolled his eyes.

“Just because your coffee is too sweet does not mean I’m one of those people who like saltines.”

“It actually does.”

“It does not.”

“I bet you eat the regular corn flakes with the green rooster on it too, don’t you?”

“I do no-

“You do. That’s the only possible explanation for your bland tongue.”

“I bet you’re one of those kids who used to eat sugar straight out of the packets at restaurants when you went out with your parents.”

“Spot on.” He cackled. His laugh was so contagious, you found yourself throwing your head back as well.

Not long after, he pulled into an empty space. When he let go of your hand to park, you pouted.

“We’re here?” You ask. He hummed in response.

“That was fast.” You say.

“That’s what happens when you spend time with someone like me.” The smile he shoots you makes you feel sick- in a good way.

He gets out and walks around the car to open the door for you. He takes hold of your hand as you get up and shut the door.

He intertwines his fingers with yours as you walk towards the restaurant. You weren’t this nervous the first time you both were this close. You could feel your chest swelling and hands getting a bit clammy as you looked up at him.

“You’re gonna love this place. My top 5 places to eat in Tokyo. Did I mention the music is great too?” He said, pulling down his shades, much to your disappointment.

“Nope. Looks trendy.” You say, peering through the glass as you both walked inside. He squeezes your hand playfully, grabbing your attention.

“This is just one of many places I’ll take you.” He caught himself lost in your eyes for a second before grunting a bit.

“If you want that, that is.”

“I do.” You say, quickly making it evident you truly did like him back. You’re twinkling to him in that moment, gracing him with the most precious smile he’s ever received.

And for the first time in a long time, Gojo Satoru’s heart skipped a beat.

“Are you okay?” You quiz. He had been staring at you for a little too long.

“Yeah, I’m good.” He said. “You’re just really cute.”

“Falling for me?” You said it thinking it was something he would say but his reaction was a little different then you expected.

“I might be.” He says quietly, but somehow still confidently.

You raise a brow at him, was he blushing? You almost missed it, considering he threw a cocky grin right back on.

“Table for 2 please!” He called out to the host.

Dinner was more amazing than you expected it to be. He was good laugh, followed along by good food and some good desserts- just like he promised. You hadn’t had this much fun with anyone in long time. You didn’t want the night to end, and you’d give anything to spend more time with him.

“Are you busy tomorrow?” You were on his arm, walking back towards his parked car.

“Not particularly. Just essential things, grocery shopping, some laundry. I wanna wash the clothes you gave me.” You say, pondering what other chores and plans you had.

“Want to spend the night with me again?” He asks bluntly. He read your mind, and that freaked you out a bit. You can’t read his eyes through the thick shades, and he’s not grinning his usual grin.

“Do you have some sort of special ability I don’t know about?” You questioned. He smiled again, which made you relax.

“I have a few.” He laughs. Something told you he wasn’t lying, but you didn’t ask. “So is that a yes?”

“Obviously.” You say. “Let me go home get some clothes.”

“That’s takes up so much time.” He whined. You were happy he felt vulnerable enough to act this way around you.

“It’ll only be a few minutes. I won’t take long.” You say, squeezing his hand back. “Besides, if you’re patient you might get a surprise later.”

With that, he shoved you in his car, seemingly teleporting to the drivers seat. You couldn’t help but throw your head back in laughter as you fastened yourself seatbelt.

“Any surprise from you is sure to be a blessing,” he says proudly, starting the car.

You both rode back to your house. You were eager not to keep him waiting, only filling your bag with the toiletries and clothes you thought you’d need. You were really going back to his house. He literally invited you back to his space. You felt crazy in that moment, but you were still going through with all of it, zipping your bags up a little too giddily. Was he this spontaneous all the time? No matter, you loved what was happening.

Even if things between the both of you didn’t work out, (because you absolutely never know) you were still going to imbue the experience into your head. You were having a lot of fun, and that was all thanks to him.

“Finally,” he said as you finally entered the vehicle again.

“You’re impatient this evening.”

“I enjoy being in your space.”

“That so?” You say, putting on your seatbelt. His hand find yours as it rests on your lap again, and you hold back a swoon. It was so attractive watching him drive with one hand like that.

“Who wouldn’t? You’re the most refreshing person I’ve met in a while.”

“Are you trying to boost your score again?”

“You know, I should start rating you, too. Just because.” He jokes. Your mind starts ringing a range of dirty thoughts.

“I’ll get a perfect score.” You say confidently.

“Ohh-hoh? You got some tricks up your sleeve I don’t know about?”

“You think I’m just some sort of whiny sub with occasional comebacks here and there?”

He was quiet, attempting to suppress a grin.

“You’re right.“ You say in just a barely sarcastic tone. He looked at you for a second and back at the road again.

“I’m just a bratty sub. It’s imbued in my personality.” You say, cupping your cheek.

“You’re too funny.” He smirked. “You’ve got all night to prove yourself to me, cutie.”

“I’d like to go to bed before midnight if that’s alright with you.” You say sarcastically.

“You know that’s not happening right?”

“Because you start your day with a crackhead cup of coffee? I figured as much.” You say, leaning your elbow on the car door. He let out a toothy laugh, glasses slipping down his nose a bit.

“This is why I like you.”

Less than 20 minutes later, you both were in his apartment. You took off your shoes and hung your jacket besides his on the coat rack. After washing your hands together like some parent and child over the sink, you flopped on the familiar suede coach, letting out a sigh.

“Ughhh, I’m so tired.” You say, staring at the ceiling. You had pictured yourself being at home catching up on one of your shows or reading a good book. Instead here you were in his living room making sheep eyes at him as he grabbed his remote.

“Wanna watch a movie?” He said, flipping through his streaming services. When he heard that you didn’t answer, he turned his gaze towards you.

“You and I both know you don’t want to watch a movie.”

He smirks before sitting on the coach beside you.

“No, I don’t.” He chuckles honestly. He wanted to ravish you, but he figured you might want to save the sex for later. He slipped off his glasses and put them on the coffee table.

“But knowing someone’s favorite movies gives you a lot of insight on who they are.” He adds.

“You’re a lot deeper than you like to let on.” You say, shifting your body closer towards his and pressing your breasts against his arm.

“(Favorite movie).” You say, earning a raised brow from him.

“8/10.” He says.

“It’s a 10/10 movie.” You retort.

“Your review is sitting at 8/10, until further notice.”

“There are plentiful ways to improve said review.” He says, pretending to look at his finger nails. You bury a laugh into his shoulder, before speaking.

“I missed you a lot.” You say quietly after your laughter subsides, nuzzling your head against him. He hums deeply.

“Then why don’t you show me how much you missed me?”

You look up at him, lips curling into a smile. You give him an ‘okay’ before throwing one of your legs over his lap, straddling him on the couch. He let out a grunt, not expecting you to eagerly pounce on top of him. He instinctively places his hands on your waist. You take hold of his jaw in your hands before kissing him. You could feel his throat growl against your hand, sending the vibrations throughout your body. You used your free hand to cradle the back of head, deepening the kiss. His strong arms wrapped around your body as he let out a barely audible moan.

You pulled his lip into your mouth, sucking for a second and letting go, shooting him a seductive smile.

“Did that do the trick?” You ask, wiping a bit of the wetness from your mouth with a single finger.

“I think I need a little more.” His azure eyes were begging for your mouth but he somehow still felt like the dominant one underneath you.

You comply, dipping your head back down, pressing your wet lips to his. You connect tongues and he eagerly welcomed it. You couldn’t help but hum against his mouth. He was giving you that feeling in your core again. You instinctively grinded your hips against his crotch. You wanted more friction, regretting wearing jeans in that moment. His large hot hands travel under your shirt, caressing your bare back skin. You felt him teasing at your bra while your tongue was at work in his mouth.

“Stop fiddling with it and take it off if you want to.” You say, anxiously.

“I have to undress you? This may affect your score.” He puts a finger to his chin, smiling smugly.

“Fine,” you roll your eyes before taking off your shirt right in front of him, giving him a show.

“That’s what I like to see.”

You dive towards his lips again, pressing your breasts against him. It didn’t take long for you to start caressing the back of his head as you kissed him. You missed the smooth feeling of his undercut against your finger tips. You took hold of one of his hands and placed it on one of your padded breasts, urging him to massage you. As he squeezed your mounds you could feel his length begin to protrude and stab at your crotch.

“That didn’t take long.” You pull away, watching a stream of saliva fall from both your lips.

“I’ve been hard since before dinner.” He says nonchalantly. You raise an eyebrow in response. You get up from on top of him, and strip yourself of your jeans. He leans back on the sofa, spreading his arms across the top length and eyeing your body from head to toe.

“I’m going to spoil you this time.” You say, bringing yourself to your knees between his legs.

“I’ve been wanting to see you on your knees like this for a while now.” He has his lips between his teeth as he watches you.

“So you’re admitting to fantasizing about me?” You trace your fingers up his legs and along his thighs.

“You don’t wanna know the thoughts I’ve been having about you.”

There he goes again, saying things to burn your cheeks in the heat of the moment.

“And if I do?”

“Oh, I’ll do it all eventually. You’ll experience everything I have in mind for you in due time.”

You could feel your underwear getting soaked from his words. No matter, you went for his belt and he was glad to watch you unbuckle it. You unbuttoned his jeans and pulled his hot length out. You gripped the base with your hands, before gulping. You really had forgotten how big he was. He looked down at you so cockily, you felt a wave of irritancy come over you as he spoke.

“I know,” was all he said.

“Shut up.” You said, wrapping the tip of his length with your hot mouth. You used your tongue to swirl around it, adding some delicate suction. You tucked some hair behind your ears before taking it deeper. Your mouth felt so full. You hoped you were able to satisfy him despite his longer member. When you felt him shift his legs, you panned your gaze to his eyes.

“F-Fuck...”

Oh, you got him good. You spat more onto his length, stroking it while you paid extra attention to the top with your tongue.

“Oooo...” He moaned through his teeth, lips vibrating with pleasure.

“You look so pretty with your mouth around my dick like that.” He moaned. He was getting anxious, and heat began to crowd his body. He removed his shirt and tossed it to the side. He brought a hand to caress your head lightly while you sucked. His body really was gorgeous- perfect actually. In every way.

You held his blue gaze with yours. You could feel his legs shaking a bit. He was throbbing and twitching in your mouth. Little did he know, you weren’t going to allow him the sweet release he was approaching. You were aching to sit on it like last time. You could feel yourself nearly leaking out of your panties. His cursing and sweet low moans were fueling your cunt in an entirely different way than you were used to.

You release him from your mouth, making a popping noise. You stand before him, glinting seductively. He could’ve yanked you down and fucked you right there.

“You’re not going to cum just yet.” You say, slipping off your underwear and straddling him.

“Oh really?” He rested his arms back, watching you hover above his length.

“You wanna sit on it so bad, don’t you? Well go ahead, I’m not stopping you.”

His words made your knees weak, but you were still a bit bugged by him. You were intent on fucking him this time and making him call out your name. Out of spite, (and possibly overwhelming lust) you slid your raw, wet sex onto his length. His eyes widened, letting out a soft groan.

“You sure about that?” He asked through gritted teeth. “Because I might not pull out.”

“I’m on the pill. I’m not that reckless.” You explain. You tried your best to be still for a moment, still getting used to his size. You used this opportunity to unhook your bra and toss it across the couch. He had been fantasizing about feeling your slippery pussy on his length without any rubber in the way. He didn’t think you’d be so gracious so soon.

“You really are spoiling me.” He said, biting down on his lip as he stared at your breasts.

You smile at him before raising your ass up, and slamming it down on his length. You were enjoying him looking like this.

“Oh God,” he mouthed, gripping your waist. You found yourself in a smooth rhythm, rocking back and fourth. You pressed your lips against his while you bounced and grinded on it, pouring your tongue in his mouth. Your hands were in his hair, rubbing his chest. His and your sweet moans filled the living space. The way his shaft curved and repeatedly hit your deepest spot was incredible. He truly felt the best.

As your mouths departed, you watched a stream of saliva continue to connect your lips before completely dribbling down his chin. You raked your hands towards the hair on the back of his head, pulling his head backwards and exposing his neck to your lips. You sucked on the soft skin on his neck and underneath his ears while you bounced expeditiously onto him.

“Shit...” He said through gritted teeth. “Fuck... how are you this wet?”

You only hum into his ears with satisfaction before riding harder onto him.

“Ah..hah...” He breathed out, digging his fingers into your hips.

Suddenly, without warning, he wraps his strong arms around you, holding you in place. He starts thrusting into you from underneath, making you panic.

“You’re... deliberately... sabotaging.. m-my score.” You stutter and squeak, unable to do much but take it.

“Oh no, you gave me a good show sweetie, but now it’s my turn.”

The glint in his eyes was menacing as he battered you from beneath. Your moans were incoherent, and you felt yourself falling apart as you leant forward over his shoulder.

“Whose my pretty, sweet girl?” You found yourself submitting yet again. Your knees were getting weak anyway, you weren’t going to be able to ride it for much longer if he hadn’t done this.

“I... I-I am.” You say into the crook of his neck. So much for dominating him.

“I feel you squeezing around me. You love my dick that much?” You nodded weakly against him. Your insides were turning into jello.

“What was that? Speak up or I’ll stop. I wanna hear you tell me how much you love it.”

He really knew how to get you going, igniting another fire within you. You finally find the strength to use your body again and start grinding against it while he thrusts, finding his rhythm. You throw your head back, completely immersing yourself into his sex.

“I-I love it so much, Satoru, I love it.” You were surprised the words fell from your lips. Normally you were shy to say such things when asked to. He had your head clouded and submerged with pleasure, there wasn’t any time to think about how embarrassing it might feel. You could only focus on the feeling he gave you.

You were pretty much splashing onto his lap. You had never been this wet before- subject to the first time he sexed you.

“Such a perfect view.” He watched your breasts bounce for a brief moment before pulling one of your nipples into his mouth and sucking generously. He wrapped his arms around you tightly, working away at your core.

“Now don’t be shy, cum for me just like the last time.”

He knew you couldn’t hold it any longer, feeling you clench yourself around him. You called out his name, feeling nothing but ecstasy as you came onto him. You nearly fell limp above his body, panting loudly. He leans forward, picking himself and you off the sofa. He placed you down, before hovering over you.

“I’m sorry but I’m not done yet, darling.” Your eyes are glazing back at him, feeling overwhelmed with pleasure. You knew he wasn’t done with you either.

“Can you handle anymore?” He asks, pushing his hair back as he looked down at you.

“Mhmm.” You hum.

“Let me warm you up again. Can you get on your knees for me, baby?” He said, patting the couch. You couldn’t help but do it simply because it was him asking you to. You sat up, weakly positioning yourself onto your knees, resting your upper body against the head of the couch.

“Like this?” You ask.

“Mhmm, just like that.” He knelt down behind you. “Spread your legs a bit.”

You felt a bit self conscious. You attempted to look back at him before feeling his hot tongue connect with your clit.

“Oh...” you moan, sort of surprised. He laughs against your sex a bit before putting his entire mouth over your clit. He takes both of your ass cheeks with his hands and spreads them wider, eating you deeper. You feel his tongue poke your entrance repeatedly, licking up what was left of your orgasm. You grip the railing of the couch, letting out the softest moan.

You felt him pull away and hover above your body. He put two fingers in his mouth before pulling them out, followed by another popping noise. He dipped those fingers into you, making your back arch. Your hips followed his fingers as he curled them inside you. You shamelessly rocked against his hands, earning a small laugh from him.

He tore his fingers from your cunt as you turned around and watched him suck and pass his tongue over them.

“You ready for it again?” He asks, sliding with raw member against your soaking cunt. You hum, pushing yourself against him, anxiously trying to get him to penetrate you.

“I love it when you start begging like that.” He says, sliding into you. “It makes it so hard for me to deny you.”

You grip the cushions, bracing yourself for the impact of him thrusting into you. He grips your hips firmly with his large hands as he fucks you senseless. All you could hear was the sound of your wet sex in the living room as you moaned brokenly. Him fucking you over the couch like this definitely hit different.

“F-fuck.... more...hard..der...” you panted while he jolted himself into your body repeatedly.

“Hmmm?” Almost agitated, you look back at him.

“Harder,” you say firmly, demanding to be fucked.

“Ooo~” He grinned. “So assertive.”

He took hold of both your forearms, pinning them against your lower back with a single hand. His other arm pulled your body up, pressing your back against his bare chest. His large free hand cradled your neck and jaw as you leant your head back on his shoulders,

“Now ask me again- nicely.” You barely had to support your own body with the way he was dominating you like this.

“P-please fuck me harder.” You ask, your throat humming against his hand.

He let out a breathy chuckle, before fucking you harder just like you wanted. Being this close against his heated skin was it’s own kind of pleasure.

“Now was that so hard?”

You were so wet, your juices began spilling down the insides of your thighs as he fucked you. You were nearing your end, limbs feeling gummy. One of his fingers had been resting above your lips because of how he held you. You opened your mouth while you moaned against it, slicking it with your tongue.

“You’re gonna make me cum, doing hot shit like that.” He said muttered against your ear, it was enough to send your throbbing center over the edge. You could feel him thrusting quicker- sloppier, as you spilled yourself onto his length. He let go of your body, instead now holding you by the bends of your arms. He pounded harder into you, stimulating you well past your orgasm and approaching his own.

He groaned loudly, and you were so dazed you barely heard him say your name while he did it. He let go of your arms, allowing you to finally collapse over the head of the couch. He removed his twitching member from your slimey cunt, shooting his fluids onto your ass. He came so much you could feel it running down your legs and onto the cushions.

“Fuck,” he stumbled back a bit. “Don’t move. Let me go get you something.”

You could’ve laughed at the slight panic in his voice when he said that.

He disappeared for a few moments before returning with a t-shirt and a hot towel for you, wiping you clean himself.

“I was caught up in the moment and wanted to be extra cautious.”

“You could’ve came inside me. I said I didn’t mind.” You say, laying back on the couch.

“You’re pretty ballsy.” He chuckled.

“I tend to get lost in the moment,” you say, putting on the shirt he gave you. “And I have my own clothes this time.”

“I know, but there’s just something about watching you move about in mine.” He says, laying down and motioning you to come towards him. You crawl up between his legs before laying on top of him. He wraps his arms around you tightly, snuggling you between his legs.

“I take this means my score was decent?” You say, looking up at him.

“Oh that. Let’s see...” he pondered. “A 10/10 for the oral. 10/10 for endurance. As you can see, I’m not as high maintenance as you.”

“I’m not high maintenance, you said you were the best so I-

“And aren’t I?”

“That’s besides the point. It was to be proven and I needed to humble you.”

“No, because now, I wanna hear you say it.”

“Say what?” You ask.

“That I’m the best.”

“And gluttonize your ego? I think not.” You say, pressing your lips to his. “Besides, you already know much I like it.”

“Yeah but hearing you say it adds the extra spice.”

You let out sigh, before looking into his eyes.

“Gojo Satoru is, in fact, the best I’ve ever had.”

“Mhmmm, like candy- but for the ears.”

“Shut up.” You laugh, pressing another soft kiss to his lips.

#gojo satoru x reader #gojo satoru #gojo smut #gojo sensei #jujutsu kaisen #jjk gojo #jjk x reader #jjk

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rantrambles · 3 years ago

Text

Ever get so upset you make a Tumblr account to vent?

I haven’t even listened to The Penumbra Podcast yet but it’s on my list because it’s insanely popular and the cosplays I’ve seen are hot as hell (A+ to all the cosplayers I’ve seen you’ve done great work). Now, with the recent news surrounding the podcast, I’ll wait till it’s done if I ever do get into it. I’m Asian and part of the LGBT community but I’m not nonbinary so I can’t say much about the trans represention in the art but I wanted to add my two cents on the matter as a person of color and someone examining the situation from the outside. Also, before I get deeply into it, I’m not the only person of color with opinions on this matter so if people have their own frustrations and criticism with the racism in The Penumbra Podcast and/or the new artist they hired, definitely listen to them too. These are my own personal opinions, and I’m sure other people will disagree and that’s fine. We’re all going to have different views on this so bear that in mind. Also, feel free to correct me or add anything if I’ve missed some information. Here’s a great breakdown of the whole situation for those that don’t know what happened. Finally, I was very hesitant to post this, but I felt it was important because I make a statement at the end on how race should be presented in a podcast format so if you are interested in making a podcast and want to have a diverse range of characters, please skip to the end to read those thoughts.

I’ll start off by saying, I’m not even that upset with the new artist that The Penumbra Podcast hired. I know that statement alone is controversial but I don't personally know them, and I’m not going to judge who they are as a person by a few pieces of art they’ve made. They are the least of the problems that I have here. Since the announcement and the backlash, I’ve been scrolling through the artist’s Instagram account and I can tell why people find the designs offensive, but I’m also comparing the designs to the artist’s other work, and I honestly believe that’s just their style. They’ve exaggerated the features of just about every character they’ve made, regardless of race or gender. From what I’ve seen the sharp angles and overly round curves in the anatomy that make some of the character’s features more jarring are how they prefer to draw. I’m sure they’re capable of drawing more realistic proportions but for the most part they’re art aims to call attention, be bold, and create distinguished features. Not inherently a bad thing on its own.

And yeah I’d understand the issue if this were a scenario where the artist heard how these characters acted in the podcast and thought “hey, obviously this character is a black woman because they are super strong and therefore must have big muscles, no other woman could look like that” or “hey, this character has to be Asian because they act super seductive sometimes better draw them as such.” But from my understanding the race was already decided by previous official artists and a general description of the characters were already generated by the audience, similar to how The Magnus Archives leaned towards drawing scrawny Jon with black, greying hair and dark skin. The new artists couldn’t really change those features even if those features aren’t described in canon because a depiction that strayed too far from popular fandom interpretation would make the character’s unrecognizable to the fanbase.

I think the reason this became such a big issue for most people is because the new Penumbra artist used their exaggerated art style when making these characters and people of color and nonbinary folks already see themselves drawn as these exaggerated caricatures all the time (with those images being used to further discriminate against them). I’m sure the artist didn’t mean for their art to be offensive, but that of course doesn’t change how it was received.

According to some, the poses and expressions the artists chose did not fully represent the characters entirely and only served to further perpetuate harmful stereotypes, and I’ll have to take their word for it because I still haven’t listened to the podcast so I have no idea how the characters act. But again much of the criticism is based on the one line-up and doing a deeper dive into the artist’s work I managed to find artwork that was much less offensive. Here some art where Vespa is depicted in a non-violent pose and one where Vespa is in a threatening pose but not an overly violent one. Here is Peter drawn in a non-seductive pose. Hopefully, the artist truly does keep the criticisms in mind as they work on the new official art. I’m just not the type of person that wants to get the pitchforks out and cause this particular person to lose a job they seemed really excited about over their old character line-up, especially when that person is also part of a marginalized group.

Again, that’s just my opinion on that particular artist. Those who are offended by their art are still valid in how they feel, and the artist should absolutely take their criticism to heart to better how they represent the characters.

What I’m more upset about is that I think The Penumbra Podcast should never have released official art for their characters in the first place and that’s their mistake that they refuse to own up about. They have made it clear that the story was never meant to portray characters of colors, a fact emphasized by the fact they hired mostly white actors from the start. They only started releasing art of the characters to get a profit. And the thing is they know what they did was wrong. All I had to do was search Penumbra Podcast racism and there is a note on their website saying that they archived some old official art.

“We have discontinued all Penumbra merchandise that uses the original character designs, and in the meantime, any profits on the sales of that merchandise will go to the For The Gworls project. We also realize that the depiction of these characters as POC, while not appropriate for us to use in our marketing and merchandise, has nonetheless become personally meaningful to many POC listeners. For that reason, and because we do not wish to distance ourselves from our mistake, we are keeping these images on our website for archival purposes. Though we do want to make it clear that many of the main/featured voice actors are white and that we did not write the characters to represent any specific POC experience, you are, as always, free to imagine these characters in any way that you like.”

I went to their shop and they still sell posters and pins with the character’s faces on them, but they are donating it to a good cause so hopefully that stays the same. However, I still find it a little uncomfortable that they are still selling character merch and have plans to continue selling character merch. They have no right to dissuade the fans that already found representation in the characters, but they also have no right to profit off the representation that was built, regardless if they made the story.

Let’s compare this to another piece of popular media. I love Avatar the Last Airbender and, I liked the ATLA voice actors just fine but there should have been more people of color doing voice acting behind the screen too. The voice actors for that show were mainly white too, however, the creators knew that they would be making poc characters. That’s what makes the difference. Did they still choose to go with mostly white voice actors? Yes. Could they have done better and pay more people of color? Also yes. But I’m not as furious at them because they did their research on the cultures they were basing the ATLA world off of and intentionally gave us a show where Asians could see characters that looked like them represented on the screen. The Penumbra Podcast did not do any of that. Again, they openly admitted that it was never their intention to make the character’s people of color when they made the podcast so that goes to show no research was made to properly represent specific cultures. The color of the character’s skin in their official designs therefore became more of aesthetic choice rather than representation, and it wasn’t even their aesthetic choice to begin with!

Race isn’t a color you can just throw onto the character because you feel like it. So I want this to be a lesson to anyone that wants to make a podcast: if you want to include poc characters please do some research into the cultures you plan to represent the way you would with any other form of media. Just because the audience can’t see the characters and just because it’s harder to smoothly introduce the character’s appearance doesn’t mean you’re allowed to be lazy on how you present the characters. Do research before you start writing the first episode and take the time to hire poc actors. Hiring poc actors is actually the least that can be done to show representation. Also, since the audience cannot visually see the race of the characters on a podcast and it can’t typically be described the way you would in a book, you’ll have to be creative. It’s not my job to say how, but my suggestions would be, before the fans come up with their own image of the character, you need to establish race in the first few episodes or release character profiles on a website so that the fans know you canonically intended the characters to be of a certain race even if you aren’t able to mention it in the actual podcast. If you are unwilling to do any of these then the best route is to avoid stating race at all and allow the audience to build their own representation into your form of media. However, once this happens, you are not allowed to profit off popular fan interpretations. You lose all rights to create official art or images of the characters. You cannot use “we have a diverse cast of characters” when you market your story. It doesn’t matter whether you created the content or not, you did not create the representation for those minority groups.

It’s one thing for fans to build their own inclusivity into a form of art like a podcast, but it’s another thing for the creators who never worked to make the representation happen to take advantage of the representation that the listeners built for themselves. Thank you for attending my TedTalk.

#the penumbra podcast #podcast #race #the magnus archives #diversity in podcasts #diversity #tpp #tpp fanart

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alluringjae · 4 years ago

Text

until dawn; pt. II - ljn

part I | part II

⤑ summary: basic number one rule of the museum is not to touch the art. but no one told jeno that falling for one of them isn’t allowed either.

⤑ pairing: jeno x female reader

⤑ word count: 12.2k

⤑ genre: ANGST, fluff, romance, smut (f receiving, dom!jeno waow, dirty talk, wrap it everyone) | broke architecture major!jeno, historical figure!reader, enemies to lovers!au, college!au, night at the museum-inspired!au

⤑ warnings: references to actual historical figures, explicit language, graphic details, major heartbreak caused by another party, expect time jumps too

⤑ author’s note: happy jeno day!! i’ve been so excited to post this part, and i’m happy we’re here!! perhaps, this is the last long fic i’ll write for a while so i can rest, but i’ll still be posting short stories within the weeks to come! i’m excited for may to say the least hehe

btw, for the smut scene (indicated with **), i highly recommend you listen to strange (feat. hillary smith) by kris bowers!! this song is from the bridgerton soundtrack, and oh man, the feels!!

with that, enjoy!

italicized text either means they are personal notes or flashbacks.

this was meant to be more angsty, but either way, i screamed every time i wrote something gut-wrenching.

⤑ taglist: @renjunniehome

⤑ ctto above!!

⤑ leave me some feedback, constructive criticism, or hellos!

“You ready to get your butt beaten by me, Lee?”

“Prepare your final words when I win instead, (Y/L/N).”

Mischievous banter exchanged between you two became a new norm. Almost every night, someone within the art pieces established a contest over anything and it released the competitive sides of you two. So far, Jeno has been winning. Not like it hurt your pride, but maybe just once, you could conquer one game to feel better. Not only that, there’s a mini penalty for the loser. So far, you’ve cleaned up the lobby yourself and acted cutely to everyone the entire evening (or aegyo as Jeno called it).

Tonight, a game of archery was held by the Greek gods. They pushed away any extra pieces away, leaving the whole room vacant with two boards right beside Zeus’ throne. Numerous arrows were produced and sharpened, Zeus in the center announced to everyone participating.

“It’ll be 1 on 1 games. First to go are Jeno vs (Y/N), followed by Athena vs. Hermes, Cleopatra vs. Freddie, and last would be Hades vs Aphrodite.”

Cutting the chase, you didn’t expect Jeno to be that good at archery. Sure, he told you that he took classes with his friends for fun when he was younger, though it showed that he’s a fast learner and even hit one bullseye in the middle of the game.

Not slightly threatened until the last rounds, you fixed your aim and lessened your overthinking when preparing to shoot. Thus, you scored 2 bullseyes shot. It was a close fight, having the audience on the edge on their feet again because it’s the two of you. Your dynamic with the night guard always elevated the mood, shifting their bets over and over again.

By 1 point, you received your first victory against Jeno. Unlike you, he showcased his sportsmanship sweetly without any comments of disbelief. He’s never bragged about anything big in his life, not unless it’s a high grade for his plate. Normally, he celebrated wins in a laid-back manner. But don’t be fooled: he loves giving penalties.

“This is why I don’t make bets with my friends because I really go for their weak spots.”

“You’re cynical, Lee Jeno.”

“Only if you’re close to me, (Y/N) (Y/L/N).”

“Aren’t we already past that stage?”

Almost halfway through his job, he sustained a meaningful friendship with you. Out of everyone, you were his default person to hang out within the nights he had a shift. If he wasn’t present, he made sure to give you small treats or gifts as much as possible. An innocent friendship, it was that the world would’ve never believed in.

Or was it?

“To celebrate your win, what do you want me to do?”

“You’re too kind for me to play around with, even if you’re the complete opposite of me.”

“I’ll make it simple and worthwhile since I don’t know when I’ll win a game again.” As your finger tapped your temple as you pondered deeply, a smart idea came through. “Grant me 3 wishes.”

He chuckled, lowering himself to view you better. “Am I like some genie now to you?”

“No room to complain, I won, didn’t I?” You grinned, raising one brow to show your dominance.

“You’re petty in your own way, aren’t you?”

“Perhaps. Now come on, I want to use my first wish.” You shrugged it off like no big deal, loving the high feeling of triumph. You lead him to the center of the lobby, where a beautiful grand piano only selected people get to play during exhibits. “Open the museum piano.”

Ever since you were brought to life, you never used it. Tempting but because people from the outside might here, maybe it’s time to try something new. A new challenge, and besides, you missed entertaining people through it. The last time you touched the delicate piano keys was to your family before you ran away.

It’s a good thing that in the shackle of keys Jeno held, the needed key was there. Unlocking the lustrous black instrument, you sat by the matching black bench. Crackling your fingers, you tested by pressing a few keys to get the hang of it again.

“What are you planning to play, (Y/N)?” Jeno leaned against the side, his arms crossed.

Humming the first notes of your piece, the nostalgia ran through your veins. “Nocturne No. 2 in E flat by Chopin.”

Your fingers took off and played each chord slowly and calmly. This piece reminded you the most of your mother, who sat by the couch in front of your old piano with your father while guests from the party they hosted crowded around you. Being the youngest, they often requested you to perform as entertainment so you always put your best foot forward. Or so you tried.

Nevertheless, no one else in your family was capable to play this piece as perfectly as you. By the way your eyes closed and your body swayed to the mellow tune, Jeno observed how you memorized this piece by heart. A passionate flame you were, outshining every pianist out there.

He wasn’t surprised at how multi-talented you were, though there’s a different kind of aura you present when you played the instrument. From your hard and tough front, you could be soft and sweet to the right people.

In a way, you showed your comfort toward the boy by serenading him with the piano. Sketching him with him in the past was one thing, but this was another. You’d sketch with people you’ve grown used to, but you play piano to people you want to cherish in your life. As dangerous as it seems, Jeno was someone special to you, only wanting to have good moments with him.

Junmyeon will always have a huge part in your museum life, but Jeno filled the emptiness that he left behind. This loneliness for a human friend vanquished thanks to Jeno, and you didn’t want to jeopardize it at all. Sure, whenever he acted like a gentleman around you, let you inside the Foreign Art Room, or brought you food sometimes, you couldn’t help feel honored.

Though lately, every time he showed off his strength when he defeated Zeus and Hades during an arm wrestle game the god held again. You seriously had to catch a breath at every flex his arms made, like the goddesses. Maybe how he pushed his black hair back when he’s drawing another plate, you’d give yourself a few extra seconds to see his long fingers skim through them. He’d bit his lower lip when he’s in too deep with his creativity, wondering if he’d bite the lower lip of the girl he’d ki-

All right, (Y/N), relax. Maybe you’re thinking this way because it’s been decades since your last relationship. You wouldn’t want to fall for another possible trap and hurt yourself again, right?

Ever since this job, Jeno’s university life drastically changed. Yes, he still hung out with his friends and performed extremely well in his classes, though he prioritized anything related to the museum wherever he was. If they were drinking out, he’d buy an extra bottle of soju for you on his way back to the dorm. Rarely does he get shitfaced anyways.

If he and Renjun visited the bookstore to purchase pens or any art-related materials, he always bought either an extra sketchpad or set of pens. Even if you were simply a figure to everyone else, he appreciated the bond you both developed.

Every night, he’d tell you about his day from the start. Normally, it consisted of a lot of schoolwork and coffee, some stories about his roommates too. Speaking of them, he’d insert a lot of humorous words about his entire group of friends, whom you learned their names too.

Mark, Jaemin, Renjun, Jisung, Chenle, and Donghyuck, each of them presented a different color in their group. Jeno, who’d admitted to being shy and quiet, grew out of his shell because of them. A friend of Jeno’s would automatically be a friend of yours, if only you were allowed to leave the museum or become a human.

Jeno learned more about your past explorations that never got documented because you no longer had an interest in jotting them down. They were adventures you’d kept to yourself, memories only close to you then would know. Except now, Jeno was another addition. You’re not the type to instantly open to people, though again, a sense of relief surrounded him every time you encounter each other. It grew gradually like a warm hug, softening your heart and breaking your walls.

The more he spent time with you, nothing feared Jeno the slightest. He’s always maintained himself intact, avoiding lines to be crossed and giving respect to those who deserve it. However, he began to question himself where exactly his feelings lie with you after Jaemin tried to set him up on a blind double date just so the best friend of his date wouldn’t feel left out.

He’s rarely one to get crushes on people, even when other girls in his college openly showed their affection towards him. Valentine’s Day or his birthday, several girls sent him chocolate or flowers. Jaemin and Renjun got sick of girls reaching out to them first so they could reach him. It’s not because he’s not the dating type, but because he’s so goal-oriented that unlike his roommates, he doesn’t have a slight clue about dating.

Though one-night stands while at a party and dating were completely different, he’d still say he had experience with girls. Plus having an older sister, he never took advantage of them. He’d rather tell them in person that the feelings weren’t mutual than ghosting them. He’s not like Jaemin anyways.

With that, he’s so lost when his heart beats twice as fast the second you’ve woken up from your posing slumber. He doesn’t comprehend how flustered he’d be when you highly insist to help him with his plate or how cute he finds it when you’re playing fetch with Mochi. On top of it, when you chose to sketch each other for one of your sketching sessions, he’d take a longer stare at your visage before he drew some strokes.

A lot of historical accounts mentioned how your beauty was the standard of the Victorian era, wherein you were the jewel of your neighborhood and numerous men wanted your hand. Women envied you, especially having high intelligence skills that were equivalent to a man. That time, that felt like a threat to most men. Though surprisingly, it turns out there were men who liked intelligent girls.

Jeno knew he liked you as a friend, though liking you past that he didn’t intend. Nor was it allowed because it’ll break one of the golden rules. Before he’d go beyond contemplating, he had to stop himself. This was so unlike him. The feelings will fleet away, he’d repeat to himself. Don’t waste a great friendship because of your silly emotions.

Individually, both of you swallowed these harboring feelings down your guts and simply kept your friendship status safe. Doing your typical activities or whatever else you could think of, none of you minded to change it whatsoever.

Unknown to you though, it was obvious to the other art pieces ones that you two practically passed off as young lovers. Although they know that pushing one towards the other went against the rules, Aphrodite begged to differ.

“Holding them back from expressing what they really feel just because of the law here is a tragedy. They should at least try, you know?”

On another typical night, Jeno invited you to the Theater Room for a movie marathon. After finding out that you’ve never seen any moving pictures, he wanted to be there to introduce it. Luck was on his side to not have plates or requirements due for the week and everyone was behaving themselves, so he started with rolling out short films from the 88mm projector. Having premade popcorn and drinks, the two of you shared roars of laughter and emotional tears.

Switching to the cd player for longer and clearer films, you’d opt to believe that you were born at the wrong time. With all these advancements, it came with a lot of new beliefs. One of them was allowing women to study and work. Then again, she was a pioneer according to historians. Without her, it wouldn’t help shape society as it is today.

Nonetheless, this movie Jeno played on the big screen was what he defined as “one of the classics”, 10 Things I Hate About You.

This outspoken character named Kat was presenting a poem to her class, trying to hold in her raw emotions towards Patrick, the boy who broke her heart. Too engaged, you didn’t notice how Jeno stretched his arms out so he could wrap one around your shoulder. Not that you were complaining, his warmth reassuring you safety.

“I hate the way you talk to me, and the way you cut your hair. I hate the way you drive my car. I hate it when you stare. I hate your big dumb combat boots and the way you read my mind. I hate you so much it makes me sick; it even makes me rhyme. I hate it, I hate the way you're always right. I hate it when you lie.” The way she attempted to keep her strong ground only reminded you of where you were weeks ago, especially once she excruciatingly broke down.

“I hate it when you make me laugh, even worse when you make me cry. I hate it when you're not around, and the fact that you didn't call. But mostly I hate the way I don't hate you. Not even close, not even a little bit, not even at all.” Only when you leaned back to the chair, you felt his arm. His thumb caressing your covered shoulder, you peeked him a little bit. His eyes fixated on the screen, absorbed in the acting and how Kat’s tears weren’t scripted as she stormed out of the classroom.

Not that you were her, but it sparked the past memory of how you merely disliked him because of his job. But as a person, not even close, not even once did you hate him. How blessed that he never judged you for it, staying patient all this time.

Right before he could look back at you, you moved your face back to resume your watching. Jeno definitely noticed what you did, though not sure as to why. Whatever it was, it wasn’t harmful.

Once the film ended, Jeno checked his watch for the time. 4 am, he wanted to do something else now instead of film viewing. You were on par with it, wanting to walk it out after being seated for hours. As you both cleaned up and bid the posters outside goodbye, the doors to the museum were locked unexpectedly. Impossible on Jeno’s half because he had the keys for every room, but he double-checked his bunch.

Alas, the keys for these doors specifically were missing. But there was no other way anyone could’ve gotten it, plus it’s not like the last person he talked to, which was Aphrodite, would need it.

Or did she?

Rather than putting any blame on each other, your only wish now was to return to your section before sunrise. You and he could just relax momentarily before yelling for help.

“Maybe we should watch another film first?”

“Alright, you choose while I return the rest.”

As Jeno inserted the cd of Cinema Paradiso inside, the background music of the opening played. He hummed the first notes, already feeling the love from this film. Another must-see classic as recommended by Renjun, he wanted to rewatch it with you.

Slowly returning each cd and film roll to their respective drawers, the melodious theme had you waltzing in the small space. Even beyond your life, classical music never gets old. Aging like fine wine, sounding spectacular as time passes because of people’s creativity.

Jeno gazed over your sudden movements, smiling uncontrollably at how immersed you were as you multi-tasked. However, you took a wrong turn by the desk and almost dropped a priceless film roll. But before you fully slipped and fell, a pair of strong arms caught you at the right time. Panting from the nerves, mostly when he was inches from your face. Never has he pressed his body this close to you to protect you, and never have you seen his captivating eyes this up close.

As enchanting as the background music of Ennio Morricone was, it only became noise once Jeno took ahold of the film roll on your hand and placing down on the desk. Taking another step closer, you were backed up by the edge. Not to mention how his height dignified his impact on you, your arms were still situated by your side with nowhere else to go.

That was until his finger elevated your chin so he could meet you on eye-to-eye level. His other hand gripping your waist, you became brave enough to place your hands by his broad shoulders. Licking your lips, you glanced at his lips quickly. But he noticed it, and as risky as this was, it was a leap of faith to take.

“May I kiss you?”

Always such a gentleman, even when he already knew how much you desired him through your returning affections. Calming your breath patterns by the speed of everything occurring, you came back to your senses. He’s the one who constantly told you not to forget your roots, so you were going to take this one.

You trust him, and he does too.

“Yes.”

Since the first film, some kind of tension increased the closer he moved or intimate his actions were towards you. You kept pushing it back in hopes not to ruin what you both have. But it only turned out to be mutual, especially how none of you held back as soon as his lips passionately clashed yours.

Tangling your arms around his neck, you stood on your tiptoes to press even closer to him. Feeling his lively heart pumping against your hollow chest, you bit his lower lip. Something you’ve secretly craved to do, he growled from the pleasure. He hoisted your waist to the desk, his impatient hands earnestly traveling all over your body. While your legs locked around his torso, your feisty nature leaned back so your entire body lied on the small desk.

Jeno was on top, placing one hand down to hold himself while the other squeezed your waist firmly. Even if you’re made of wax, you’re like an actual living woman at night. Everything about you becomes real until dawn. You emitted vulgar moans, giving him more access to your neck. Peppering a mix of soft to hard kisses, your hand teasingly snaked under his shirt. He really wasn’t joking when he bragged that he was quite ripped since he enjoyed sports and going to the gym, cupping a part of his toned abdomen.

“If you want something, all you have to do is ask.” He sluggishly sucked the area between your ear and neck, one of your weakest spots. “What’s on your mind, baby?”

The growing moistness in between your legs left a stain in your panties, trying to close your legs out of embarrassment. It’s been decades since you’ve been stimulated like this. However, Jeno beat you to it as he trailed the hand that was on your waist and lowering it right above your covered sex. He cupped it agonizingly slow, making you folding your leg from the pleasure. For a man who doesn’t date around, he knew exactly what he’s doing.

“I just kissed you, and you’re already this soaked. Can you handle me, baby?”

As the strong woman that you present yourself to be, it would selfishly take the right touch from the right man to weaken you. With his savage lips back on yours while your hands clutched on his shirt, he was simply waiting for a verbal answer, yet driving you completely mad. Everything was happening so fast, and here he was to please you in anywhere you seem fit.

You were deprived, and oh, you needed it more than ever.

However, seconds before you replied, there was loud rumbling from the main doors which stopped your devilish antics. As Jeno moved back from you to see the ruckus, you lifted yourself back up, pulling back your dress sleeves and flattening out the creases. The last thing you wanted was a trail of familiar red marks from the aggressive male, finding any reflective surfaces to check.

“I wouldn’t be that dumb to leave you hickies now, would I?” Jeno ended your worries as he placed his hands by your side again. His face leaned towards yours again, reliving the warmth in your cheeks. His lips were plumper, catching traces of your coral lipstick smudged there down to his jaw. He slotted himself again between your legs, grazing a hand on your waist and the other to your warm cheek. “The door’s unlocked now, and it’s 5 am. Do you want to clean up now?”

You playfully scoffed, aware that neither of you had plans to do that yet. Such a player while in the heat of the moment.

“Spare me 15 more minutes with you first.”

Hiding the romance you’ve both built failed without trying. Aphrodite spotted all the signs from your open physical affection and words of admiration, calling you two out in front of everyone without shame. She is the goddess of love, after all. You couldn’t fool her even if you tried.

Plus, she’s the one who locked the two of you up in the Theater Room that night. But neither of you know that.

“Sketch my ideal home?” Jeno bent down to the table, testing out his newly bought pens so they wouldn’t spill.

“Isn’t that why you decided to pursue Architecture in the first place? Come on now!” You pestered across him, opening your new sketchpad since your last one ran out of pages. As expected, Jeno bought you one when he went to the bookstore. As much as you insisted not to because he should use the money somewhere else, he did it anyway. He loved your works, encouraging you in any way he could.

When he was reminded of his humble beginnings of his passion for architecture by you, never had he envisioned exactly how his perfect home would be like. Settling down was so far beyond his mind, only focusing to graduate university then study for the licensure exams. However, he did miss drawing something for fun, not as a requirement. He also was the one who took charge of designing his dorm.

“Fine, only if you draw what your ideal home would’ve been if you never left London.”

Now as lovers, the only addition to your relationship were the public and private exchanges of affection. Deep conversations, film viewing, back and forth banter, you’re both still the same competitive duo everyone expected to be together. In public, the two of you held hands, hugged, kissed each other cheeks too when it felt right. Cleopatra’s face of fake nausea was priceless every time, while Princess Diana, Anne, and Katherine enjoyed it. It’s been years since they’ve seen this glow of adoration in you. Bit by bit, you’re going back to the old you. Except now, you’re a lot stronger.

Perhaps, this version of you proved wrong for the need for romance. Even if you made the choice not to settle down then, it would’ve been different if Jeno was in your universe then.

“Are you done there?” Jeno asked while you were finishing up your masterpiece. Life in London sounded fun when you were younger, having all these ideas on interior design and the like. An innocent time.

Instead of replying, you strode to his side and compared your pieces together. He pictured a two-story home, with a backyard and rooftop area. He definitely wanted to stay in the city as his whole life was based there. Although you preferred living in the countryside more for more freedom, you gave it a shot by pinpointing every detail of a wealthy typical Victorian-era home you liked. You desired a spacious lobby with a grand staircase in the middle, a crystal chandelier there too. The living room would have a small library and a grand piano, where wide doors leading to the grasslands were beside it.

Considering you two lived from different times, in a way your ideal homes were similar. Somewhere private, surrounded by nature and minimal furniture, you’re curious as to how it would look if the two of you fused them together. A mix of old and new, will it look pretty?

“What will look pretty?” Jeno questioned your random thought, looking back and forth at your sketches. “You know who’s pretty though?”

“If you say what I think you’re going to say, I’m lea-”

“You.”

Jeno has gotten flirtier since that night, always finding the right opportunity to flatter you. Although you denied them out of embarrassment, the butterflies in your stomach can’t lie to you.

You’re so smitten, and so was he.

Jeno’s always one to follow the rules, but so far, he’s been breaking some of them already.

Just last night, he gave Renjun access to the lively museum because he needed more research regarding you. Initially, he practically interviewed Jeno for every piece of information he gathered because he used to be so deep in the books to study everything about you. Now in the past, Renjun still couldn’t forget how Jeno drunkenly admitted how crazy he was going to be over you and your coldness whilst sobering up in the dorm.

He didn’t understand one bit by that, especially when you’re technically dead. But by the sight of the first piece Renjun saw alive, which was Zeus, he almost passed out. Piece by piece, he viewed these artworks come to life from his fresh eyes. Right before he could’ve screamed when Athena shot a lightbulb in their exhibit, you happily called out Jeno’s name.

Renjun froze on the spot upon seeing your wax figure come to life. He’s browsed through this museum numerously due to the new exhibits, but lately, he checked your section out to find any tiny details that were linked to your life. Aside from the sketchpad, compass, and hairpins, he wanted to know if there was more to your life as an explorer.

As human interactions except the night guard weren’t allowed, Renjun needed help for his project in Women Studies. Just like Jeno’s assignment, you aided him. Fruitfully answering every question he gave you, Athena popped out of nowhere to inspect Jeno.

“I see you’re breaking another rule.”

“I’m sorry, Athena. He was desperate, and it would be selfish of me to let him fail.”

“This is the last one I’ll let slide, alright?” Athena huffed, not impressed by the reckless behavior Jeno acquired over time. She saw this coming, but for a change, she couldn’t punish him. He was a young adult, still learning more about life. Only will she step in if things turn for the worst. “I can’t believe I’ve gained a soft spot for you.”

Jeno laughed, hugging the figure like his older sister. “You love me though!”

Glad to say, Renjun aced his project and kept his word of not telling anyone about the happenings in Jeno’s job. Jeno even made a makeshift non-disclosure contract so Renjun wouldn’t spill the slightest details.

Lately, so much has been happening in the museum that having alone time with each other was rare. And when you did, the two of you made sure to maximize it and make every intimate moment count. From each touch, each longing kiss, each moan, and groan, never were you left hanging whether you’re at the Theater Room, Jeno’s office, or the Foreign Art Room.

The only time the two of you went beyond the boundaries was at the indoor garden. Jeno managed to get the key to it, lighting up some candles before you invited you inside. Thanks to the magic of the Greek gods, the cameras were bewitched to display fake imageries when security checks in the morning after.

Upon your deep conversations, you’ve mentioned once or twice about the indoor garden. It was the latest addition of the museum, opening in the early 2000s. Because it was a sacred place, no art piece was ever allowed inside.

Yet again, Jeno challenged the rules again when he invited you inside. A few minutes before, he set up some lights along the hallway of the garden, where he placed a blanket, a picnic basket, and his laptop right at the end of it. The best place to view everything, he just knew you’d love it.

He was undoubtedly right once you gasped at such a pretty sight. Seeing the silhouettes of various flowers and plants together with the night sky with all the stars sparkling, it was like you’re attending another ball with your sisters, who were looking for suitors then.

Once Jeno leisurely led you until the end, he brought out all the delicacies from the basket. One of them was this Italian savory dish of dough with toppings such as cheese and pepperoni, or pizza as they named it. The next ones were fresh strawberries and melted chocolate, followed by grape juice.

“I’d drink actual alcohol with you again, only if I didn’t get shitfaced and do my job properly.”

“Point taken. Besides, this is close enough. So pour me a drink please.”

Perhaps this was the closest to a date Jeno could ever ask you out to. With the restrictions and being constrained with time, he brainstormed all sorts of ways to bring the outside world to you. From simply letting you wander around this fascinating room, he unleashed the inner romantic in him. None of his friends would’ve thought since they never asked him about it, so he kept it to himself only. Finally, he’s satisfied with what he prepared. After eating, the two of you would watch more films before the sun rose again.

You’re just the right person for him at the moment he can act that way.

After your quiet stroll and sitting back down, Jeno surprisingly handed you a tiny box.

“A gift?”

“Open it.” He sipped on his juice, paying attention to your actions. Gently untying the box, the amazement in your eyes couldn’t fathom such a lovely present. No words were required to verify that Jeno outdid himself again, just your facial expression alone is enough.

When Jeno said that he pays attention to the tiny details, he doesn’t bluff. Throughout your growing relationship, you’ve cited how you wanted another special flower in your life. Just because you couldn’t view lavender roses the same way ever again, it didn’t mean you wanted to kick them out of your life. Flowers were one of nature’s beautiful creations, so you’re wishing to find the love you once had for lavender roses in other ones.

Thus, you came across what you thought held the highest form of meaning: red roses. Despite its thorns, it’s still a marvelous flower. Innocently, you told him that just because of the memory of your father giving them to your mother on her birthday yearly.

Red roses represented true love and romance, a discreet message only those eager would know.

Jeno was one of them, which was why he reserved this gift for this very moment. It was a necklace he found through a college fair recently, a subtle red rose pendant in the center. Since he couldn’t give you huge gifts, he settled for something light. Something none of the guards or the director wouldn’t pinpoint out when they do their inspections.

“Do you like it?”

Not one utter from your mouth since you’re so hypnotized, your lips quirked up in a charming smile. “Is that even a question? This is astonishing, Jeno.”

After you attempted to put it around your neck, Jeno sighed and stepped in to help you out. “Turn around, (Y/N). Let me.”

The tension gradually heightened once you held your hair up so Jeno accessibly viewed your clean neck. Clasping the lock, it took all his might to hold himself back from you. Even from behind, your silhouette was attractive to him. The lights he set up weren’t helping the slightest of what he’s thinking to do with you.

“Done.” He breathily whispered in your ear.

If he thought he was the only one feeling something powerful, he’d be more than wrong. The lingering sensation of his slim fingers gracing your décolletage area unhinged another kind of want, the one you’ve only imagined in your mind when you were needy and alone. It shouldn’t be a sin unless you’re with the person you’ve fallen for, right?

Facing him again, the eye contact didn’t last long when you were the first one to strike a move. Jeno kissed back right away, his hands pulling you closer by your waist. Whatever sultry music Jeno played, it gave you the perfect momentum to grind on his lap. He groaned against kisses, adding his tongue. His thumbs sensually rubbed your hipbones, one of your hands toying around with his hair while the other one balled up his shirt by the chest. None of you cared if anyone caught you.

The last time you’ve been this aggressive was at the Theater Room, which eventually increased the hidden lust you’ve had towards each other. Taking things slowly at first, it’s about time to delve in for more. The mood was already set from the start, even if Jeno didn’t plan this to happen here. But being the prepared man he is, he did have a condom in his back pocket.

Your fingers trailed from his neck until his crotch. He was hard, sensing how suffocated he must be. But he kept himself in control. Locking eye contact, you sweetly spoke.

“Grant my second wish, Jeno.” That same hand of yours held one of his, planting it in your breast. “Make love to me.”

Giving the go-signal, he crashed his lips on yours while stripping you off your dress. Carefully, he turned you around to untie your tight corset. Once it fell, your neck leaned sideways as his lips attacked it madly. Your breaths were tremulous, placing both his hands on your freed breasts to knead with. His touch felt like fire on your skin, yet you couldn’t stop.

“Jeno,” Obscene moans from your lips choked out. You desired more, shifting back to face him again to attack his lips. Slowly feeling one of his hands laying you down, you spread your legs with ease just for him. He parted after your head landed on the cushion to unbutton himself. The way your mouth dropped to selfishly stare at his bare body, flexing them before getting back into position. He was fit and toned just as Cleopatra predicted.

As much as Jeno knew how wild your thoughts were getting, he was more taken aback by your perky chest.

“Fuck, you are divine.” He sucked one nipple as his fingers ventured to slip your panties down. So much was going on, you didn’t know which stimulated you more. You tried to close your legs around his hand, but he slapped your inner thigh to stop you.

The cool breeze shivered you, especially from your core. Jeno’s fingers adventurously grazed from your hip area to your lower lips. He teasingly rubbed it up and down in your essence, his index finger settling it right at your needy clit. Another moan escaped your lips, an opportunity for Jeno to slide his tongue in your mouth. Enjoying the moment, his fingers dipped inside you. A gasp broke your kiss, making him giggle in your ear.

He knew exactly what he was doing.

“Oh, angel. The things I want to do with you.”

Sliding them back and forth, curling it even, you squirmed for more. Dropping himself to meet your core, Jeno placed your legs on his shoulder. Pushing you closer, his steamy breath felt like friction. Your hips grinded against it, so he gripped on them so you stay put.

“Angel,” He chuckled darkly, his crotch tightening at how powerless you looked. “You’re so pretty.”

You were drenched from arousal. But to Jeno, you were glowing under the lights. He wanted to take his time to admire what he had done to you. His independent girl, only weak for him.

His fingers unfolded in your lower lips, diving in to your orbit. You could hardly speak from his skilled mouth, especially his tongue savagely lapping your clit in numerous paces. You’ve only daydreamed about what it could do aside from kissing, and it exceeded your expectations. By the heated sensation that had the heels of your feet digging his back deeply, you affirmed to have seen more stars than the night sky above you.

Your back arched uncontrollably while his hands grasped your hips to stay in place, the tears in your eyes formulating while tugging on his hair. Your thighs clenched around his face, but his broad shoulders widened it to taste more of you. No use of pulling away when his grip on you was tight, so you could only cry out from the pleasure.

“Fuck!”

The ringing sounds in your off were going off, your throat drying up from moaning once another orgasm was about to hit. Once the knot in you snapped, nothing could hold back your screams of pleasure whilst panting for air. Sensitive as he licked every remaining essence he caused, he smirked as he got up to unbuckle his jeans.

Oh, boy. He got quite a package behind his boxers.

Even while you were overly sensitive, you had to grasp it in your hands. He was yours, and you were his.

The way you clenched around his protected length, pausing to readjust yourself to the feeling. The foreplay deemed helpful, though the girth of him overwhelmed you. He stretched you out so good.

“Are you okay, (Y/N)?” The stunned face you made was expected, still feeling worried that it may be too much.

Biting your lip, you moaned once everything felt bearable. “You can move, Jeno.”

None of you could track exactly how many rounds you went through. Even in the semi-public area, it didn’t hinder either of you. There’s that thrill, and surprisingly enough, you both shared the liking of it. Always switching the positions, you decided to call it quits after another sloppy round in missionary. Something seeing Jeno on top, fully submitting yourself to him, made you feel calm to be vulnerable. It’s really the trust you’ve established from the start, making you rely on humans again once you’ve let the past be.

Jeno brought out another blanket, initially meant for cuddling. It was still applicable though, curling your body into a spoon towards his racing chest. Music was no longer noise, the intimacy creeping back instead of lust this time. The afterglow of Jeno, sweaty and knackered as his legs sprawled under the sheet, was a sight for sore eyes. He’s always been handsome while on duty, but post-sex gave him an extra boost.

Plus there’s pride from the red marks courtesy of you on his chest, grazing over it softly.

Jeno chuckled softly at your smooth fingers, lifting them up to kiss them tenderly before kissing your lips again. Only humans were capable of and to love, but you’re some kind of an exception. Regardless of the magic from the plate, you’d be able to love too if it weren’t for your background.

There’s so much love Jeno wanted to offer you, even if he hasn’t said it out loud yet.

Perhaps one reason was because time was beginning to tick. Finals were a few weeks away, then the one-month long semestral break until a new semester kicks off. Time really flew by, and his bank account and heart expanded too. Enjoying the now was all he could think of doing, but those uncertainties bothered him.

The biggest would be where you and he would stand when his job ended.

Jeno was too absorbed in his internal debate, as portrayed by his eyes staring off in space and running his hand in his hair repeatedly. Something was disturbing him, and you’re concerned as to what it was.

“Jeno,” Around his arm, you tapped his chest to get him out of it. “What’s going on in your head?”

Jeno approached every obstacle he faces straightforwardly, not wanting to let him hold back. Rarely did he keep secrets, especially from you. Instead of hiding away, he voiced it out.

“(Y/N), will we work out?”

“What do you mean, Jeno?”

You’re so occupied in the present that thinking of the future was never in your field. Like him, you’re just enjoying being in the moment. Though after tonight, it’s making you wonder if there’s a future.

“Well,” He placed his hand on top of yours, affectionately observing you. “Times flies faster when you’re having fun, and well, the semester is ending.”

His last words crushed a part of your heart, remembering his initial plan. None of you expected your friendship to bloom into what it is now, but life was just full of surprises without a schedule. At the same time, none of you wouldn’t have it any other way.

It may have been a few months since you two committed to each other, but the spark was still strong. It wasn’t like a summer romance kind of feeling. Time was not a determinant of love either, which you were certain of it with Jeno. A lot more than Junmyeon.

It should’ve frightened you when you realized your love for Jeno, but it didn’t. Even if you didn’t age physically, your mindset did. You’ve learned to forgive your younger self, and through Jeno, you let your guard down completely. From that, you let love in. Platonic to your fellow art pieces, and all of the above to Jeno.

Throughout your relationship, you regained all confidence in yourself and everything you set your mind to.

“I wouldn’t want to worry too much about it if I were you.” Your body flipped to lie on your stomach, resting your head on your palm.

“Why shouldn’t I, angel?”

Gazing back at him, you left a velvety kiss on his lips to rest his thoughts. His hand wrapped your neck, deepening it. But you pulled away with a giggle, all too knowing of his secret intentions as his cock began to harden again. His eyes narrowed down and his lower lip stuck out at your attempt of being a tease.

But enough about sex, you wanted to address a point.

Lee Jeno was going to be the biggest risk you wanted to take and fight for, and no one should try to stop you.

“I’ll ask Circe for a potion. For me, for you, for us.”

If it weren’t for insistent questioning towards every art piece, who kept their mouths shut, only Circe herself banished him from his suffering. Her series of potions varied, and the one you requested years ago which you threw out was capable of turning any art piece into a living human. No potion of Circe ever failed, so you entrusted your life for the day you do drink it.

“Are you sure, angel?”

Jeno knew about that one specifically, and as great to hear that you never threw it out, he never put pressure on you. He wanted you to do whatever felt right, even if deep down, he wished you’d use it. He was only worried about how the flow of the entire museum would be disrupted.

Typical Jeno always looking out for you, but you saw right through his concern. Here you were, caressing his check as reassurance. With an honest smile,

“I’ve never been more certain with anything in my life here until you came, Lee Jeno.”

Jeno opened up more to his life outside the museum, telling all sorts of experiences not just his days as a university student. From his childhood, his family, his travels, heck you even want to meet his friends at this point!

Newly, he shared with you how the sunrise and sunset looked like in Seoul with much vivacity. It’s a luxury as a human to witness as day breaks and ends, so you could imagine by yourself how it would look like. Sure, you had drawings and all, but that was from the real (Y/N) (Y/L/N).

This version of you wanted to live more; that’s your greed now.

“You’ve never touched snow too, right?” Jeno, who had his arm wrapped around you, silently watched the first batch of snow from inside.

“Yup, that’s the thing when you’re imprisoned in this place.” You sulked by his side, earning a chuckle from him who pulled you in closer.

“Don’t tell me now that you despise this place.”

“I don’t, but it hinders me to experience new things. The whole pattern of being awake at night by a plate gets tiring, Jeno.”

All Jeno would do when you’re frustrated was placing your head on his shoulder, listening as you talk.

“I know, angel. But it won’t be long until you leave this place with me, right?”

“You know it!” You interlocked your hands with him, eyes trained at every falling snowflake.

Sometimes, moments in silence with Jeno were all you needed for the night. Being within each other’s presence, focusing or admiring something from afar, it was all the peace you’ve needed from the bustling art pieces.

This week was the last of the semester, and Jeno’s off duty for tonight to focus on his exams. You’ll see him tomorrow night, which was his last shift ever, and also yours too.

Perhaps the biggest milestone you’re committing to without any regrets.

However, it took an unnecessary conversation you accidentally eavesdropped on to rock your decision.

You needed more ink after running out mid-way of sketching the sculptures as a secret parting gift. Before you could take a single step inside your exhibit room, a series of voices were full-on arguing. Booming back and forth, you peeped your ear out whilst hiding against the door.

“Athena, how dare you did to her?! She’s done so well from moving on from it, falling in love even! And now you’re telling me this?!” The distinct voice of Princess Diana, who spoke sweetly most of the time, boomed towards the Greek god. “You’re heartless.”

“I did what I had to do for the sake of this place, Diana!” Athena raised her voice, the lightning in her hands holding back from lashing out. She hated it when anyone argued with her, especially when she does things according to what she believed was necessary. Out of everyone, she had more leadership. “She had to know that her place is here as a wax figure, not outside. Talking Junmyeon out of it was for the best, plus it’s ideal when he drank the potion of memory loss from Circe.”

“But it tore her apart when he left her, and it’s going to tear her again if you do the same with Jeno.”

“How else are you going to approach the situation then, Diana? Those two have broken the highest golden rule, so they need to wake up.”

Right when she celebrated within herself for healing, hearing the unbearable revelation behind the past devastated you. This whole time, she internally blamed herself for being ageless and lashed out at others. The scary past barged back in, and you couldn’t handle it anymore.

Somewhere in the corner, you wept without a trace. You could care less about Athena’s opinions, but you found yourself agreeing to some of her words. You had a role to fulfill, and leaving that behind would be selfish and it could make the museum go topsy-turvy. As painful for Junmyeon to leave you, it was because the truth hurts. Nothing could change it, even if Circe could be your solution because it’ll leave a lot of questions. You didn’t want Jeno to be seen as a suspect.

Oh, Jeno.

There’s nothing wrong with falling in love either, you didn’t intend it to happen. But it becomes unfair when it compromises with your purpose, and that’s not how you are. You’ll always remember Jeno as your biggest risk, though it’s time to end things. Treacherous as it was to accept for you, risk-takers have boundaries too.

Fast forward, on the night of Jeno’s last shift, you’ve cherished every second with him. Playing around, chatting with other art pieces, kissing in private, you made it count. Before dawn broke, that’s where you chose to come clean by the garden, your sacred place. Not even your self-reassurance could prepare you to witness the hurt and confusion Jeno felt.

“You’re a mortal, and you still get to choose your path. Mine is already predetermined here as a wax copy of a historical figure.” You advised as you held both his hands, your voice shaking at the reality.

A few days ago, you were beaming with exhilaration at a new journey but now you’ve permanently backed out. Jeno couldn’t comprehend, and as much as he tried, he couldn’t. A life without you by his side would be empty and dull. “Even so, there are things about you that the original person didn’t have.”

Arguing with him wasn’t your favorite, and it’ll leave the two of you in a bad mood. But there is no way to negotiate this; you’ve already made up your mind. “We must end this, Jeno. You need someone who can grow old with you, and I can’t be that person for you.”

“But we can make it work!” His hands gripped on your slumped shoulders, whilst your face avoiding his to spare yourself from the heartache. “There’s still Circe.”

“I know, but recently, I found out that she’s an indirect cause of my misery.” Pulling away from his touch, you belted with frustration. “I cannot do this anymore, Jeno.”

You’ve always fought for whatever you wanted in life, and Jeno knew he was one of them if it weren’t for you telling him that. So he did the same, thinking of ways to make you feel whole. Now, he couldn’t tolerate the sudden crumbling of his heart from your outburst, and all he wanted to know was why you felt this way. How could he help you?

You don’t keep secrets from Jeno, but the truth behind your harsh actions cannot be revealed for the sake of the museum. Plus, you didn’t want him to despise this place he admired. Causing him pain wasn’t on your list, but keeping him safe was. It may be shown differently and he may not understand it now, but over time, he will.

“Jeno, you’ll find someone better out there. Someone with their whole life ahead of them, who’ll love you for everything that makes you who you are.” Repetitive punches in your guts urged you to barf at your half-lie, but you held it in.

“Why are you pushing me away? What happened to taking risks, (Y/N)?” Jeno interrogated, taking your hands in his hands again. They unconventionally quivered, like his lips. Jeno has never cried in front of anyone, not even when he was younger. Though for you, he just might. “Am I not worth it for you?”

Dear heavens, he was wrong. You internally screamed that, but you can’t let your selfishness seize the night. As Athena said, you had to wake up from your dream. “Committing to you was my biggest risk of them all, Jeno. Everything else that went along with it, I don’t regret it one bit. But time’s really up for us, and we must resume our normal duties.”

“I can’t lose you, (Y/N).”

“You never will, Jeno.”

He crouched lower to meet your height, his finger moving your head so you’d look at him back. Weakly enough, you did. “I want you to be a part of my normal life, angel.”

“I’ll always be here, you know. I’ll be standing in my usual spot upstairs, and you can drop by whenever you can.” You pressed your lips, lifting your head to avoid incoming tears. Meanwhile, he began shedding a few. You’ve hurt him big time, and you’ll never forgive yourself for this. “I still have one wish, right?”

Jeno’s sorrow was beyond his capacity, leaning his forehead against yours to kiss it. No matter what he could say or do, he already knew it won’t be effective. You’re affirmative in your choices, yet he still wanted to challenge it. All he wanted to know was why you’re doing this.

“Let me walk you one last time to your section.”

The black night sky had remnants of blue, motioning that dawn was approaching. Other figures gave their goodbyes to Jeno earlier, cleaning up their areas before they pose. Though none of them anticipated such a cold atmosphere between you two, they could only spy on what was bound to happen.

“My last wish is for you to let me go, Jeno.” You avowed, blinking your eyes with faux positivity. Your hands patted his blazer so it wouldn’t crease. “I already have a role to fulfill here, and you’re on the way to yours, future architect.”

“I love you, (Y/N) (Y/L/N).” Only tonight did he muster his courage to finally admit it to you after giving himself more time to analyze it. Timing was always crucial, and the badness of it showed.

Deep in your heart, you resonated the feeling. But it’ll make things more complicated, and it was the final thing you’ve wanted to occur. Someone had to be the strong one, and now, it should be you. With one more compassionate kiss on his lips, you stepped inside your section and readied your position.

“Goodbye, Lee Jeno.”

The sunshine brightened the room, and you’ve frozen to slumber again.

All Jeno could do was drop on his knees, sobbing over your rash actions. Unknown to him, a single tear left your eye as you posed.

Regardless of what status you were in, the pain of it all remained.

Jeno spent most of his semestral break with his friends to travel or whatnot, trying to forget it all. Even if he aced all his finals, his efforts felt like nothing if he never had you by his side to celebrate.

The sting over his short-lived romance with you never diminished the slightest, no one whom he could express his pain about it to especially when Renjun drank the memory wipe potion that Athena initially left for Jeno by his desk.

Forget it all, and live a peaceful life. You have so much potential, my mentee.

- Athena

Perhaps this was the same thing Junmyeon drank all those years ago, but unlike him, he didn’t have the guts to. He still wanted another chance.

So every day since the new semester began, he spent every afternoon break at your section. He’ll be seated by the bench, doing his assignments and talking about his day while sometimes stealing a glance of your figure. Some habits don’t change.

He never got sick of the same smile you exemplified, falling even more for you. He’ll often wonder what you’ve been up to.

What are your new sketches?

Are you taking care of Mochi well?

Have you apologized to Sanghoon yet?

Speaking of him, he surprisingly scooted over to Jeno’s side. This was the first time Jeno met the man, and politely enough greeted him. Sanghoon interviewed the boy, asking all sorts of questions that Jeno had every answer to. The biggest change that Sanghoon noticed since he left was your personality. You no longer bite, but treat everyone kindly without bias. You’re always active to help him out in cleaning the lobby, and you don’t go easily defensive.

Once he found out that Jeno was the reason for that, he was overjoyed at the start and wanted to meet him some way. You were a tough cookie, but now you relaxed. That was all that mattered to him, hoping to know more about him from you. That was until Diana stepped in and told him everything that happened. Mostly, the bad.

Playfulness eventually bore love. The last time you fell in love was in the 80s and Junmyeon pushed you away, he recalled. This time, you’re pushing Jeno away because you simply agreed with Athena’s points.

This wasn’t right, but it wasn’t his place to interfere.

But then again, he finally caught Jeno for the first time today and this time, he was open to hearing his side of the story. Lessen his misery too.

“No matter how stubborn she is, she loves you.” He advised him, bringing out one of your full sketchbooks. As Jeno opened it, the majority of the portraits were him. Sleeping, smiling, laughing, you drew him from every minor detail you could spot like the mole near his eye and his crescent eyes.

A handsome face I would never get sick until the end of time. Someone I want to wake up to every day in the morning if it weren’t for that plate.

- (Y/N)

Towards the end, a sketch of a house unfolded. The interior was a fusion of modernity and old royal design due to its white walls, wide space, and the placing of less furniture, plus an open backyard. There’s another tiny comment on the side from you.

I was right. Joining our varying designs together is pretty. Maybe Jeno and I could live in a house like this one day.

- (Y/N)

If you loved him so much, why did you let him go then when you had all these plans with him? Even if he tried to understand, he just didn’t.

“Don’t give up just yet when she told you to.”

“Are you just saying this or something?”

“Well, Princess Diana passed this message on but after everything, I believe that she’s right.” Sanghoon gave his opinion, but Jeno was reluctant to accept it.

“I never got a proper explanation why she suddenly changed her mind, Sanghoon.” He ranted, raking his hand through his hair from puzzlement. “Did I do something wrong?”

Sanghoon pitied him, having the upper hand and questioning himself whether to reveal the truth. However, since this boy took the job, he’s succumbed to secrecy. Without any transparency, it could drive someone mad. He’s too young for that, so Sanghoon breathed in defeat and placed his hand on Jeno’s shoulder.

“Promise me you won’t be mad when I tell you because I was when I found out; almost screamed even.”

Jeno nodded, listening to whatever Sanghoon had to say.

Of all people, he never would’ve expected Athena to do such a brash thing. Someone he respected and trusted, only to betray him by doing something she believed was good for all. Except it wasn’t, and it ended up hurting you all these years. The woman he loved, now he’s a clearer understanding of why you did what you did. Yet, it can’t fix his excruciation.

Heartbroken was an understatement; he had no one to rely on. With Sanghoon, he finally had a proper breakdown. The older man could only comfort his quietly, picturing him like one of his sons going through a hard time in school. But if it involves the heart, it’ll take more time to recover.

“You’re always the one adjusting, Jeno. But I think this time, you’re the one who needs space.”

A Year and a Half Later

“Jeno Lee!!!” Jaemin roughly wallowed his best friend in a hug when he arrived in their dorm room for the first time in a long time. “You dyed your hair blonde again!”

Renjun, who was behind the two of them, only rolled his eyes as he helped carry Jeno’s bags. “God damn it, Jaemin! You’re supposed to be helping me first!”

“I know, but give me a few seconds! I’m just happy our group is back together!”

Jeno laughed at his friends’ annoying yet silly dynamics, giddy to be back home. For a year, Jeno spent his 3rd year of university in Rome, Italy after one of his professors brought up to him about a scholarship program there for his course. At the time where he needed a change of scenery, he sent his application form and got interviewed.

Acing it, he had the opportunity to fly across the world to study and travel. His English skills surely improved, even picking up Italian words along the way due to a required class for it. He studied the history of different locations and how they were built.

He also went on field trips almost every day if it weren’t for the Italian students assigned to tour him around, academic and non-academic. Nights he spent on drinking wine on the rooftop of his dorm with them, screaming his complaints in the world with them.

It didn’t hit him that his stay was reaching its end until he submitted his final plate. His goodbye party didn’t even feel like one, but a see you later in the next few years after he becomes a licensed architect with money. His goal of it felt more realistic, motivating him to excel in his remaining years in university.

After unpacking half of his things, he was reminded of an email from one of the head professors, who requested another copy of his confidential documents from the Italian university he went to as soon as he’s back on campus.

He raced to the department with a folder of them and luckily encountered the said professor. Handing it to him, this professor questioned how he was and what experiences he gained from the trip. With excitement, Jeno spoke all sorts of tales from his adventures, highlighting how determined he was now to be an architect.

“That’s great to hear, Jeno!” He celebrated, checking on his watch, and widened his eyes. Frantic at his colliding schedules, he asked Jeno for a favor. It turned out that at the same time as his emergency meeting, he’s supposed to tour the new transferee student around campus.

“Only if you have time, Jeno! I could always ask another student, plus you just came back and need rest.”

“It’s not like I left for a decade, sir. No worries, I’ll do it.”

“Oh, bless your soul.” He put his hands together in prayer position, bowing back and forth with gratitude. “Wait, she’s right outside! Go ahead and introduce yourself.”

Jeno nodded, exiting right through the department doors. This girl had her back turned, inspecting her surroundings. She wore a black and white tweed blazer that matched with her skirt, black high heeled boots, and a black handbag. She must be a foreigner, Jeno thought.

“Excuse me, are you the transferee in the department of Architecture?”

Jeno didn’t brace himself for the surprise he’d face once this girl reacted to him calling her out. Her face was one he could never forget, no matter how many times he told himself to. The same face he convinced his heart to stop beating for, yet it lied.

This radiant face was none other than yours.

Jeno almost dropped his phone. He tried his best to hold on to your promise, but he failed. It was the main reason he studied abroad; to forget and focus on his career path. So the least thing he could’ve done was to study hard for his dream career.

Just a glimpse of you projected back every single memory you’ve had together. Beautiful yet heart-wrenching, he kept his emotions to himself.

You even wore the rose necklace he got you. Could it be?

“It’s been a while, Lee Jeno.” You took the metaphorical scissors to cut the tension, trying to contain the crushing feelings. The faculty center was a public place, yet it’s like the two of you were on the main stage.

“Do you remember me?” Astounded, you nodded. Every single detail.

Jeno could’ve ran away, but didn’t. He could’ve left you hanging, but didn’t. He can no longer count how many times you’ve appeared in his dreams, only to be disappointed when morning comes to not have you in his arms. He took one step closer, taking his time.

“How do you know me?”

“You’re the boy whom I helped with his assignment, argued with me over Romeo and Juliet,” You mimicked his move, making you one step nearer to him. “And most of all, the boy I once gave my entire heart to.”

Another step, leaving a few inches between the two of you. His heart palpitated without caffeine. What if he was napping in his dorm again? It was all surreal. “Is it really you, (Y/N)?”

Hearing your name from his lips lowered your guard, you pleased him with a hopeful grin. “I’d be dust by now if I didn’t drink Circe’s potion, right?”

That’s where Jeno unchained himself from his emotions. He engulfed in a warm hug, one that has no plans to let go when his chin planted on your shoulder. You returned the gesture, dropping all your worries away along with your bag and papers as your arms snaked through his neck.

You knew you had to part ways for a while after everything, though you were unsure how he’d feel about it. You recalled every time he visited you after his job ended up until his intense chat with Sanghoon, where he bawled his heart out. You couldn’t take it anymore after trying to stay strong, crying as soon as you woke up that night.

All your fellow figures could do was soothe you down like before to the best of their abilities, yet this time, it was unsuccessful. You’re filled with misery, realizing later how much of a big mistake you’ve made.

You’ve isolated yourself again for a while, but less rudeness and more silence. It was until Circe visited you. She doesn’t like getting involved with drama, though now was different. She, alongside Hera and Aphrodite, couldn’t withstand you tolerating the heartbreak again. So they went behind Athena’s back on this one time and created a potion together just for you. But with a compromise.

“This potion can turn you into a human. However, there’s only a 10% chance you’ll regain all your memories from this place.”

“So I’ll forget everyone and him?”

“Yes, unfortunately.” You’re about to shoo her away, not in the mood to do something drastic as that. But Circe grabbed your arm again. “I strongly believe that if you and he meant to be, then there will come a time these past memories will suddenly surge at you.”

“Must I need to forget to live properly?”

You’re stubborn, and Circe expected it. “You’ve broken so many golden rules, (Y/N), so it must be done. I’ve gone against Athena for this potion, and rarely have I done that. So rather than wallowing up in misery, you should focus on yourself. Do what makes you happy because this place is trapping you from every great thing out there.”

Those were the word that the actual (Y/N) (Y/L/N) lived by, nevertheless, you’re unique from her. You built a separate identity from her. “But Jeno-”

“At the right time, (Y/N). Pull yourself together and do all the things you’ve dreamt of before he came into the picture. I just know he loves you that much, and that he will wait for you.”

That same night, you gathered all your senses and drank it. The transition was fast as lightning speed, and behold, you were like a new person. You’re back in London, with a family that closely resembled your former one; only 3 older siblings, making you the youngest. You also had a new set of memories, from childhood until your adult years.

From (Y/N) (Y/L/N), you became (Y/N) Edwards.

It took one drunken night out with your university friends for the unlikely surge of old memories to speedily hit through your intoxicated state. Way beyond a dream, you’ve dropped your shot glass and broke down in the bathroom of your dorm room. You left something unaccomplished, and you had to do something before it’s too late.

Thus, you rushed to Seoul thanks to your parents’ support as they agreed that exploring outside your home country was a great experience. The only excuse you gave to your friends for the sudden transfer was you finding a new calling.

Sure, studying abroad was an exciting thing but you’re more determined to reunite with him. Even if this encounter was unforeseen, it was bound to happen one day. It so turned out that you had the same major in your former university and this new one.

Head to toe, you remembered everything.

“I’m so sorry I took so long.” You cradled your head on his chest, unaware of how your new life left Jeno so troubled.

“That doesn’t matter anymore.” Jeno tightened his grip, scared of releasing you again. Those two years felt like a breath of fresh air and a punch in the gut. “I tried to live up to your last wish, but I really can’t.”

“I want to take that wish back, Jeno. I wasn’t thinking right and only ended putting you through so much.”

“Oh, angel. I slowly understood why you did it.” Before he got too fragile, he softened his grip on you and showed his face again to you. He wanted a better look at his pretty girl, his fingers brushing strands of your hair behind your ear. Heart-fluttering, you bit your bottom lip. “What would you want to wish for instead?”

“Instead of you letting me go, I wish you could take me back and love me again. I can’t undo the past, but I’d still like to think I’ve tried my best.” That was the only wish you could ever think of. As huge as it was, it was something he may not accept. Yet you gave it a go, risking it all. “I don’t deserve you at all, Jeno.”

“Don’t say that, (Y/N).” One of his hands grabbed yours, putting it on his cheek. Cupping it, “I’ve never stopped loving you, you know.”

Oh, love. An all-too familiar emotion that either makes or breaks you. Of all the times you could’ve said those words, you held back, especially that wretched night you two broke it off. Although you showed it, being able to say it to someone felt more empowering.

This was finally the chance you’ve unconsciously waited for.

“I’m stupid for not saying this sooner.”

“What is it?”

With intimate eye contact, you drowned in the comfort of his brown orbs. You trusted him then, and you trusted him now. “I love you, Lee Jeno.”

Secretly, Jeno anticipated for the day you’d say those meaningful 3 words. Just like you, he showed more affection through actions than words. He only admitted when he lost you, and never would he do the same mistake again. If he felt that the love was strongly present, he will say it aloud.

“I love you still, (Y/N).” His arm around your waist tugged you in further. “I loved you as (Y/N) (Y/L/N) and I will continue to love you as (Y/N) Edwards.”

He peeked on your ID earlier, but regardless, he stood by his truth. You’re still the same (Y/N).

Finally, he closed the limited space between your lips. The memories of your past romance replayed in sync of every touching kiss, popping one leg up like in the movies. The Princess Diaries, specifically. Like in the museum from your unbearable parting, one warm tear freed itself down your cheek.

The sweetness of being reunited with you again beat the torturous wait of Jeno. Time really made your hearts grow fonder. As everyone said, if the love between two people is real, then it’ll find its way back to each other.

The world must be on your side too because no professor called you two out on your public display of affection. Jeno pecked your lips one time before stepping away, picking up the things you dropped.

“Now come on, I have to tour you around as instructed.”

You stomped on your feet, rolling your eyes from being left hanging. He’s still the same tease from before. “After that kiss though, I would’ve thought we could reschedule it.”

“No can do, Edwards.” Passing over your things, he wrapped one arm around you as he escorted you out of the building. The university was huge, with more buildings and green fields surrounded everywhere. “Left or right? There are a lot of places you missed out on all those years.”

“Point taken. Then you lead the way, my love.”

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