#im kinda stuck on the next chapter at the moment...

[sixosix]

THERE IS AN INDENTATION IN THE SHAPE OF YOU | LYNEY

notes 1.5k words, happy mothers day to my mama and to my maman rosalie, IM SORRY FOR THE DELAYWHADJFD

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The moment the messenger bird departs from his fingertips, Freminet launches off in swift motion.

Hours slipped by with him remaining inactive, with ‘Father’ unusually subdued since her return. Freminet should have immediately harbored his suspicions of it—’Father’ will always be one step ahead. Whatever secrets the children attempt to keep are already accounted for by her; it is her response that remains unpredictable and dangerous. Freminet admires that about ‘Father’, but it is perhaps a little unwelcome in the present situation.

The rain died down moments ago. The Hydro Dragon calmed, but Freminet knows that you haven’t.

He finds you kneeling on the ground, breathing heavily. Petrichor is wafting through the air, but there was that distinct smell of frost that Freminet could recognize anywhere. He belatedly notices that your hands have been frozen to the ground and your shoulders are trembling, but you’re making no effort to pull off.

Freminet approaches warily. Lyney��s message had been vague, but he got the gist of it. It was only Help Y/N. Freminet isn’t going to question it; if you were in danger, he wouldn’t think twice about it.

“Hey,” you whisper, seemingly unsurprised by his appearance, only sheepish at your current predicament.

“Y/N,” he says slowly. “Are—how did you—do you know how to get out…?”

“…No,” you cough, embarrassed. “Usually, Rosalie would help me.”

Freminet kneels beside you. “How did this even happen?”

“I—I don’t know. Honest. I just flicked my hand and got stuck. I should’ve calmed down before I left in the rain—I don’t—I was just—”

“You’re shaking,” Freminet interrupts, frowning. “You’re too weak at the moment to budge out yourself.”

“Well, yeah.” You breathed in deep, resigned. “I figured that out twenty minutes ago. I calmed down now, but I kinda gave up.”

“You’ve been stuck here for twenty minutes?”

People with Cryo Visions are more resistant, but no human should be stuck in ice for that long. Freminet supposes he could never fathom how strong you are, even after all these years.

Freminet really missed you. He wants to say it, but now is probably not the time.

“You can learn to thaw it. I had to learn it, too.” Freminet watches in confusion as you stare at the ice—the same ones you’ve created—with contempt. Or perhaps it would be more accurate to say fear. “You haven’t been using your Vision?”

“Not on purpose,” you murmur. “It’s always an accident. How do I melt this?”

“You have to relax,” Freminet says, resting a hand on your shoulder. “Think about the ground melting the ice away, like it was never a part of you.”

“I wish it wasn’t a part of me. This is a weakness.”

“It can be a strength if you learn how to use it,” Freminet says. That’s what ‘Father’ used to tell him. “So you shouldn’t neglect your Vision.”

You stare up at Freminet with your mouth a little open. Freminet blushes under the attention, diverting his gaze.

“You’ve really gotten cooler, huh, Freminet?” You grin, the same flame you’ve given him before, back when things were simpler. “I missed you.”

Freminet allows himself to bask in it. “I missed you, too.”

The ice had shrunk, but it was still present. Freminet is mystified—he has never known any other Vision users who were so wholly in tune with their emotions to their Visions. You were like some sort of miracle.

“I wish Lyney was here to help you,” Freminet says and keeps an eye on the glow of your Vision.

Your expression shifts quickly into disdain. “I’d rather he wouldn’t. I don’t want to see him right now, that idiot.”

Freminet tilts his head. “Why? Did he already confess?”

Your eyes widen as the ice doubles over and is enveloped by a new layer. “That—that wasn’t a confession!”

That’s not the reaction of someone not-confessing. “We all knew it, you know. Lyney really likes you.”

“Freminet,” you hiss, your skin burning. And as fast as the frost has crept up your skin, it melts. Even for just the thought of Lyney. How magical it was. Even you seemed surprised, your hand launching to your face to feel how hot it had gotten. Anger, embarrassment, or something else that you couldn't name—it didn't matter, Lyney had a different kind of effect on you.

Freminet smiles. He missed this. “Tell me about it on the way there.”

You tell Freminet you had an inkling of where ‘Father’ took Rosalie. It’s just a guess, you want to say, but it was really more like you don’t know anywhere else where she would take Rosalie. It made the most sense—and, in some up way, it made it poetic.

And so you two stand face to face with your old home, the House of the Hearth. It still had the same grand doors you remember, the same living room, and the same fireplace, but the emptiness was unfamiliar. It was unsettling, like a bad dream.

“Where is everyone?”

“’Father’ told us to evacuate for the entire day,” Freminet says. “But I didn’t know it was going to be because of you.”

You laugh. “There aren’t even any guards here?”

“‘Father’ doesn’t need any.”

Well, he has a point.

You took in the things you can still remember: the room in the far corner that you occupied the most, spent every day training until your limbs couldn’t even move; the table, where you bickered with Lyney all the damn time; the couch, with Cecilia and the start of the terrifying thought that you weren’t going to be anyone special anymore.

You have memories here. Good and bad in equal parts, but still memories. Coming back to the House as it’s empty solidified your leave. This used to be your home.

“Are you okay?” Freminet asks quietly, but it startles you in the silence of the building.

“I’m okay, sorry. Do you have any idea about where ‘Father’ could be?”

Freminet’s eyes brighten. “I do. Follow me.”

The click of Freminet’s steps eases your nerves a little bit. At least, you think, you aren’t surrounded by suffocating whispers anymore in this House.

Freminet leads you down the corridor, and it comes to you belatedly that this path was intimately familiar to you. As he stops before a door, you knew. Your name is still engraved onto it, but with the dust and rust that has collected and grown over time, it wasn’t taken care of anymore.

“Here?” you ask in disbelief.

“I hope so.”

Freminet twists the knob, and the whispers that resound from the room fall silent. You find it strange that it hasn’t been locked, and it feels like walking into a trap, but you realize that all of this had been part of The Knave’s plan—of course it would be a trap that you’ve walked straight into. But all those thoughts are wiped away when your gaze dawns on the woman on the chair, who was glaring at her hand.

“Maman!” you cry out, missing the cup of tea she was holding.

She flicks the tea behind you and flings her arms out when you launch onto her. “Ma chérie!” she exclaims brightly.

The glass shatters and startles you back into clarity. You blink dumbly at the mess, then back at Rosalie. “Were you going to drink that?”

Her expression turns fierce. “No. Never. Not ever, okay, mon amour?”

“Oh, er, yes.” You never realized that Rosalie harbored an intense hatred for tea.

And finally, you direct your attention to the woman who has been silently watching the entire time.

“‘Father’,” you address her.

You haven’t called her that since you left. In your head, she’s always been The Knave; from the moment you left, in each flower you froze, in painful memories with Lyney, she is The Knave. But looking at her now, you feel like nothing else fits more. The ease of the admission almost terrified you. You could never deny it—she is your ‘Father’.

“I see that Freminet was the one who brought you here.” Arlecchino hums thoughtfully. “I was expecting Lyney.”

“I’m sorry, ‘Father’,” Freminet says weakly, head bowed. “But I stand against whatever punishment you will give her. I am here to protect her.”

“You’re openly going against the rules of the House?” she asks, tone stern.

Freminet sucks in a breath, afraid. “I-If I have to. I will not let you hurt Y/N.”

Arlecchino simply places her hand on Freminet’s head. “And you know that I wouldn’t. Do not worry. I know and understand your loyalty doesn’t stop at people who’ve chosen to leave our family.”

Freminet’s head snaps up, his eyes wide.

As heartwarming as it was, the teacup shards and its liquid's strange pungent smell have alarmed you. What was she giving to Rosalie? “Why did you bring her here?”

“Do you remember the most important rule of the House?”

“Betrayal to the House is punished with our lives,” you recite almost instinctively. Rosalie reaches for your hand and grips it tight but keeps her gaze forward, as if only to assure you that you aren’t alone. “But it’s only me. Rosalie doesn’t know anything. If you want to kill anyone, it should be me. Please, ‘Father’.”

Arlecchino almost smiles. “You want to know the truth?”

“It’s all I’ve ever wanted from you.”

“I thought you were like me. I recognized my youth in yours. But I was wrong. You love more freely than I do; you just don’t see it.” Arlecchino stalks closer until she’s close enough to mirror your position—you kneel across each other as if she is willingly lowering herself to make you understand. “I don’t want to chain you to the throne.”

…Huh?

“So, I will give you a choice.”

notes my arle is definitely softer than canon Father but to me she would just.Do this. SORRY AGAIN FOR THE DELAY BAHHAHA this is so embarrassing if there are any mistakes IM SORRY ill fix it tmrw :) also akagi if ure seeing this i did see your askLMFAOOOO my answer is in the drafts for tmorrow love u guys

taglist still in the comments cus tumblr is being mean

[httpiastri]

PERFECTLY FINE – CHAPTER SIX (BARCELONA & SPIELBERG)

genre: angst, fluff, comfort, the usual.

word count: 6.8k

warnings: more heartbreak 😭 sorry but it has to get real bad before it gets good again

author's note: aaaaa thank you all for your patience!! december 7th is officially pepe day now. <3 im kinda mean to pepe here tho, but i also did one good thing which... if you notice what i mean when i say i gave him what he deserves, lmk and i'll give your head a little pat. okay anyways, hope you enjoy :) (also!! i feel like this isn't my best work but i am so so excited to write the silverstone chapter!! stay tuned for that for way more action (and heartbreak)!!!)

series masterlist

BARCELONA

returning to racing after a break always comes with a mix of emotions; anticipation, nerves, and the trace of hope that lingers in the air. this time is no different.

qualifying went great – another session in the top ten meant a good starting point for both races, a result that left the whole team buzzing with optimism for their home weekend.

but the real headline of the day wasn't about you; it belonged to someone else. the boy who had earned his first pole position in f2.

paul.

even though he was the on average fastest qualifier last season, he didn't grab a single pole – but now, he's finally done it. and when you close your eyes, you can still see the way his face lit up with a grin as he got out of his car and celebrated with his team.

it's well past sundown by now, but the paddock is still buzzing with anticipation for the weekend when it's finally time for you to go back to the hotel. having said goodbye to all remaining staff members, you pick up your backpack from the floor and make your way to the door of the truck. right then, your phone buzzes with a text – a congratulatory one from your father, happy with your results for once.

well, as happy as "congrats, good job today" can be interpreted.

with your eyes stuck on the screen of your phone, trying to figure out an answer, you don't even notice that you're about to walk right into someone as you exit the truck. thankfully, the other person does notice, placing their hands on your upper arms to keep you from stumbling into them. you almost consider not looking up, too embarrassed to want to acknowledge that this incident even occurred, but then you recognize the voice. "in a rush somewhere?"

your gaze snaps up instantly, meeting a pair of baby blue eyes slightly covered by a fringe of gorgeous, blonde curls.

right. the hitech truck is parked right next to the campos one this weekend. you already knew this was bound to cause some awkwardness.

"no, i'm not, sorry-" you shake your head to stop your rambling, instead taking a deep breath. "congrats on your pole position."

paul smiles at that – a very gentle one, but still one you recognize to be sincere. "it's pretty great, isn't it?" he asks, shoving his hands into the front pockets of his jeans. "i mean, i still have to make good use of it, but..."

"i'm sure you will."

a few moments of silence follow. it's not too awkward per se; after everything that's happened between you both recently, you feel a lot more comfortable and safe around him after monaco. but then again, the last time you spoke was in the middle of the night, when you were dizzy and weird and possibly drunk, with your boyfriend sleeping just a few feet away with no idea of what was going on.

when you try to speak again, paul speaks up, too. "i really should-"

"could you wait here for just a moment?"

you really should go – a picture of ollie pops up in your head, and you suddenly feel an urge to check that his promise ring is still wrapped around your finger – but something in you tells you to nod. paul drops into the hitech truck again, leaving you to wait outside for a few moments, before re-appearing in front of you with a little box covered in wrapping paper in his hands.

"i know your birthday was the other week, so," he starts, holding out the present to you. "happy birthday."

for a couple of seconds, you don't say anything and don't move even an inch, just blinking down at the box in his hands. "are you serious?"

"you don't have to take it," he adds at that, suddenly a little insecure after seeing your reaction. "i just thought... i don't know, i'm-"

"stop, of course i want it," you intervene, shaking your head slightly as you finally take the box in your hands. it's heavier than you'd expected; you wouldn't have been surprised if it had been just a box filled with air, some kind of prank, but this box definitely has some kind of content. when you remove the wrapper, you're left with just a classic, black jewelry box. "paul..."

"i bought it for your birthday last year, but... you know that stuff happened." he shifts a little in his place, hands moving back to his front pockets. "since we're kind of friends again, i wanted you to have it. i have no use for it anyway."

as you slide off the lid, you almost lose your breath there and then. inside the box lies a golden chain, with a little heart pendant hanging from it – engraved with your initials.

"are you serious?" you ask, but you don't wait for the answer before stepping forward, engulfing him in a big hug. paul hesitates for a moment, and it makes you freeze. was it too much too soon? too big of a reaction for just a gift he would've thrown away otherwise? but then, you feel his arms wrap around your waist, and you can relax again. "thank you so much. it's gorgeous."

"you don't have to wear it if you don't want to," he says as you pull apart from the hug, but you shake your head.

"of course i'll wear it. i probably won't ever take it off."

but despite how happy you are that he not only remembered your birthday but made an effort to bring this to you, there's one thought that just won't leave your mind.

why did he keep it all this time, when he could've thrown it away or sold it?

"don't be too hard on yourself," you say, walking over to where pepe sits on the couch in the campos truck. your hand instinctively reaches down to his hair, messing up his dark fringe. "you did well, and you're going to do even better tomorrow. i have no doubts."

the spaniard merely groans, arms crossing over his chest as he slouches down even further in his seat. "i wanted to do better in front of my home crowd, you know?" he asks, shaking his head. "last year i won, and... i just wanted to give them as big of a show."

"you still can," you tell him as you slip onto the couch right next to him. "you have all race tomorrow."

your teammate rolls his eyes at this, but you see the hint of a smile on his lips. "you're just optimistic because you did well..."

"well, finishing in fifth after starting in fourth isn't the best i've done. but points are points."

"still, you- wait, is that a new necklace?" he asks, eyes darting to the pendant hanging around your neck. "let me see it!"

you're just about to swat his hand away when he reaches for it, feeling your cheeks heat up – from bashfulness or guilt, you're not sure – but you stop yourself in the last second. "it's a birthday present."

"from who?"

your answer doesn't come out as confident as you had hoped. "my mum."

he gazes up at you, an eyebrow raised. "you don't have to lie, you know," he says before looking down at the necklace again. "it's really sweet that ollie would buy you something like this."

ollie?

you can't help but look down in your lap at the mention of your boyfriend, your eyes already prickling with unshed tears. definitely guilt this time. pepe notices instantly, as he always does, and reaches over to place a hand on your arm. he doesn't say anything, knowing that you'll explain if you want to. "it's not from ollie…"

the confusion grows even stronger in the poor spaniard, frown so deep the lines in his forehead might go permanent.

"ollie gave me a ring. a promise ring, even…"

"a promise ring?" pepe asks, a gentle smile on his lips. "so things are really getting serious between you two? where is it?"

it hasn't occurred to you before this moment that the ring isn't actually on your finger right now.

you've been taking it off for most sessions – and whenever you work out, do the dishes, shower, sleep… really any chance you get. not because you don't like the ring; it truly is beautiful, but something about it feels off.

maybe it's the fact that it feels like he gave it to you just to trap you with him. it's a thought you've been trying to shake off since the moment he slid it onto your finger; the piece of jewelry should only be bringing you good feelings. why else would someone give a promise ring, if not to vow their unwavering commitment and ask for the same in return?

but with ollie, it doesn't feel like a shared promise – it feels somewhat like a leash.

as much as you've tried to convince yourself otherwise, it's hard to ignore the underlying truth that's been gnawing at you. he didn't give it to you because he wanted to, but because he needed to. like some kind of proof that you wouldn't slip away, that no one else would steal your attention.

it was more damage control than romance.

"it's somewhere in my bag," you say, throwing a glance towards your backpack on the other side of the room, before looking down at your lap again.

"somewhere in your bag?" pepe is trying so hard not to intrude or be too rude; he wants to be supportive, but something about your actions and words is making him suspicious. "you don't really care for it, then? is it ugly?"

"it's gorgeous, but… i just…"

he takes your silence as a sign to keep going. "who gave you the necklace, then?"

the first tear falls from your eye now, accompanied by a few more slow drops that roll down your cheeks. you're not in any rush to wipe them away; you know pepe has been studying you cautiously for a while now, so he definitely noticed already. but it isn't until you remain silent, other than a few occasional sniffles, that it clicks in his head.

"you're kidding," he says with a shake of his head. "paul has got a lot of nerve, you know that?" there's steam blowing out of his ears by now, and he stands up in just a second. "let me go punch the shit out of him-"

"don't!" you manage to grab the sleeve of his maroon redbull hoodie before he gets the chance to leave, pleading eyes staring up at him now. "i wouldn't be wearing it if i wasn't alright with it, i promise."

"then- what?" confusion takes over his expression once again, and he's still struggling to find his words when you pull him down to sit next to you again. "you're a smart girl. i think you know that the charm you're wearing is a heart. and, well…" he shrugs, still unsure of what to say – and with the whole situation, to be honest. "boys don't give away hearts to female friends."

"they don't?"

pepe shakes his head. "i thought you loved ollie."

"i do," you counter instantly, though you don't sound very sure.

"really?"

"well, i- i think i do." you reach up to your cheeks, brushing away a few tears from them. "maybe… maybe i don't. i don't know, pepe."

pepe has no idea how to react or what to say, it's easy to tell – so you choose to explain it all to him.

you tell him about how you were still in love with paul, even after breaking up with him. you tell him about how ollie wasn't supposed to be a rebound, how you felt like everything seemed so perfect from the start, but you could never really grow past that initial stage of adoration and go deeper.

you tell him about all of the moments that have made you doubt; the little interactions with paul where he's acted like the paul he used to be before your breakup, and the times you've been with ollie and felt like you should've been more present than you could be.

you tell him about the guilt of knowing ollie loves you, but not having been able to say it back even once. and you tell him that no matter how much you want to love ollie, no matter how perfect he is to you and how it all just clicks, you still aren't sure if you actually do feel it.

"can i give you my honest opinion on this?" pepe asks when your sobs have died down, streams of tears turned into mere teardrops waiting at the corner of your eye. "what paul did… you may see it as just something sweet that a good friend would do. but something is seriously suspicious about it." he pauses for a moment, and when you remain silent, he speaks up again. "like, why would he still keep that necklace a year later? and why would he bring it this weekend?"

"what are you saying, that he's still in love with me?" you question, eyebrows furrowed. "that he's trying to steal me back?"

"i don't know exactly what he's thinking, but i think you should be cautious." he leans forward ever so slightly, placing both hands on your shoulders. "i think that – and i say this in the most platonic way ever – you're so lovely that if someone were to fall for you once, i don't think there's such a thing as falling out of love. i'm sure he still feels what he felt a year ago."

"and what, you think i'm just going to let him steal me away? like it's that easy?" you shake your head. "i get to choose who i'm with, not paul."

"don't think that i don't know you're a strong and independent woman. but, you also just confessed to me that you're not even sure if you're in love with ollie, so…" he takes a deep breath. "don't get mad at me for thinking that you haven't really made up your mind, or for being suspicious of paul."

"they actually called you in to pit?"

ollie groans, running a hand through his messy, newly cleaned curls. "my steering was completely off," he says, leaning back against the desk in his hotel room. "what was i supposed to do? i had like ten warnings for track limits."

you shrug, flopping back against the bed behind you. "you did what you could, ollie," you say, hoping to bring him at least some solace.

however, the tone of his voice is far from one you had expected. "well, that hasn't been enough all season, has it?" he counters, crossing his arms over his chest. "i've barely scored any points all season. even compared to rookies, i'm terrible."

he doesn't need to say the name for you to know exactly who he means.

your eyes widen at this, and you struggle to find the words. you knew he's always been setting a hard standard for himself to live up to, but since when was he self-deprecating? "darling, we still have half the season left. it'll be alright-"

"easy for you to say," he snaps. "you're not at the back of the field every single race."

you've never seen him like this. he's practically oozing with anger, his gaze drilling holes into your soul.

you knew he was mad, frustrated and about a million other things.

you just didn't expect him to take it out on you.

he realizes it instantly – he notices the way your eyes flicker to the floor, your shoulders slumping slightly and your breath hitching – and regret flashes across his face immediately.

you press your hands into the bed, pushing yourself up to stand. "i think… it's time to go back to my own room," you say, voice much lower than before. "early race tomorrow, you know…"

ollie makes it over to you in just two quick strides, hands finding your hips easily. "hey, i'm really sorry," he says. when your gaze remains fixed on the floor, one of his hands reaches up to cup your cheek, tilting your face up. "i didn't mean to snap at you like that. i'm just frustrated, and… you didn't deserve that."

"it's alright, i get it." you try to put on as much of a genuine smile as possible. you do understand it, at least partially; he's under a lot of stress and doesn't mean whatever he's saying. but at the same time, are you really the person he should snap at? "i really should go, though."

he gives you a nod. "kiss?"

he leans in, pausing just before your lips meet as if giving you the chance to pull away. you don't, and the kiss feels tentative, as if he's testing the waters. there's no spark, it just feels... mechanical. a fleeting press of lips that in no way conveys the comfort he's trying to offer.

ollie pauses for a moment, his nose brushing yours as he whispers. "i really am sorry..." his grip on your waist tightens momentarily, as if trying to hold onto something that's slipping away.

you nod faintly, not trusting yourself to speak. the warmth that usually lingers after a kiss is missing, leaving only an awkward stillness. you step out of his grasp, and before he can say anything else, you've grabbed your bag and made your way out through the door.

the sound of your footsteps against the carpet fades quickly as you walk down the hall, leaving a silence that seems to echo louder than his earlier apology.

p7 to p3 in the feature.

another good race, another podium, another congratulatory text from your father. what could be better?

the post-race media duties took ages this time, and yet, pepe promised to wait in the truck until you were ready to leave. despite the fact that he's most likely drowning in envy, seeing his teammate get on the podium in his own home race, the smile on his lips as he hugs you when you've come back to the truck actually seems genuine. "are you sure you don't want to stay?" you ask as you part from the embrace. "breathe in the atmosphere some more?"

he shakes his head softly. "with the roadshow and fans forum on wednesday, i feel like i've had tons of atmosphere by now," he says, doing his best to hide the hint of pain that attempts to make its way onto his face. "maybe i'll see some fans on the way to your hotel, who knows."

with your bag slung across your shoulder and your third-place trophy securely in your embrace, the two of you finally make your way out of the truck, saying your goodbyes and thanks to all nearby staff on the way. everyone seems to be in a good mood – even apparently your boyfriend, who walks out of his truck just as you're about to walk past it.

"congrats on the points," ollie says as he gives pepe a pat on his shoulder. "even got the fastest lap, right? well done, mate."

the spaniard offers him a smile back. "pretty alright day," he hums, before looking over at you. "though, this one was outstanding."

"isn't she always?" ollie asks, hand instead finding the side of your waist as he leans down to press a fleeting kiss to your cheek. "good job today, love."

"thank you," you answer, unable to stop smiling so brightly. yesterday night is long forgotten by now, your argument seeming nothing but tiny as you look at the bigger picture. how could something like that bring you down on a weekend like this one? "i think-"

you don't think he intended to cut you off by the action, but your breath hitches in your throat mid-sentence as you see ollie's hand nearing your throat. it takes a few moments to realize what he's doing, and when he's got your heart pendant in his hand, it's already too late for you to react. "cute necklace," he says, flipping it over to see the initials engraved in it. "where did you get it?"

now that you've practiced this answer once, it comes out more confident and believable. at least, you hope it does. "it's a birthday gift from my mum."

pepe seems to understand the subconscious signals you send him, because he remains quiet even if he doesn't agree with you lying to ollie like this. ollie puts on a smile, one that doesn't quite reach his eyes, and brushes his thumb over the initials again. "i've got some competition, huh," he says jokingly, but you hope he doesn't catch your small, nervous swallow.

more than you could ever guess.

his words make you instinctively take your hand into your other behind your back, fingers instantly reaching to check the length of your ring finger. empty. you just must've forgotten to put the ring back on after the race. no big deal, right?

pepe can't hear your thoughts but he takes the now awkward silence as a sign that your mind is spiraling again. "we were just about to leave," he speaks up, giving your shoulder a pat. "you coming with us, ollie?"

he shakes his head, finally letting go of the necklace. "i have another meeting to get to," ollie answers. "but i'm sure i'll see you both tonight?"

you and pepe both nod as you part ways with your boyfriend, gentle smiles on your lips. however, your stress is practically oozing off your skin, and pepe picks up on it instantly. he slings an arm across your shoulders, holding you close as he leads you down the paddock. "he didn't catch on," he reassures you, seemingly managing to read your mind this time. "but it's better if he hears it from you than someone else, you know."

you swallow down the lump in your throat, giving him a nod. "he won't overreact, right?"

pepe keeps quiet for a few moments, picking his words carefully. "ollie is a good guy. one of the best." he takes a deep breath. "it will be alright."

yourusername just posted!

yourusername podium for the team's home race, couldn't be more happy. thank you team for the hard work. 💗

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user amazing as always!!

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→ user thank GOD

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camposracing thank you y/n! you make us proud 🥺

→ yourusername vamos!! ❤️

SPIELBERG

"it's not that i'm greedy or anything," ollie starts as he flops down on the edge of the bed, a huff escaping him. "i just… it would be nice to score some points, you know?"

if he had been greedy, you would've understood it. a mere three point-paying performances so far this season and a top result of p4 is not what he – or anyone – had expected. with the amount of pressure on him to perform, and all rumors about his future, everyone anticipates good things every time he jumps into the car.

you hum, pulling the duvet over your body as you get comfortable in bed. "you're in a good position for it, you know," you remind him. with his second top ten qualifying of the year, except for his pole in jeddah which he didn't get to claim the spoils of, he sure has a great chance for the sprint race tomorrow.

he nods slowly, pulling a hand through his messy locks before holding up his duvet and slipping in underneath it. "and you will do well on sunday. tomorrow too, of course," he's quick to add, turning to face you, who's already lying on your side. "good job today, love."

"thank you," you hum. a smile appears on your lips when his hand reaches for the side of your face, pulling you into him. his lips mold lazily against yours, fingers tapping against your cheek before tracing down your neck and arm. when he reaches your hand, his thumb draws random figures against the back of it, before finally falling down to brush against your fingers – and your breath hitches in your throat.

your ring finger is empty.

but where did you put it? when did you take it off? was it when you washed your hands before dinner? or when you showered after quali?

you don't know if ollie has noticed yet, or if the action is purely unconscious because he's too focused on your lips against his, but you pull away just in case. "i forgot my phone..." you mumble, retrieving your hand from him and scrambling to get out of bed. "have to charge it overnight..."

you rummage through your bag with feigned urgency. the phone is already exactly where it should be, on the floor where you'd placed it earlier, connected to your charger. but ollie doesn't need to know that.

what's important is that he doesn't know about the ring, or about the currently cool press of the gold heart against your chest beneath the fabric of your shirt. the thought sends a chill down your spine, and you force yourself to breathe as you stall for time.

your actions are all for nothing, however. of course he noticed.

a first podium of the season is always a lovely feeling. you would know, having already experienced it, and now you got to be happy for your boyfriend claiming not only his first podium but also his first win.

it's even better that he got to share it with pepe and paul.

even though things currently are a bit tense between ollie and paul, those two have been through so much together. they've been friends for years, and all that doesn't disappear just because they've dated the same girl, right? on the podium, you're supposed to let go of everything else and just have a good time with the other two drivers, no matter who they are.

so why were both ollie and pepe so reluctant to pay any attention to paul? why did neither of them seem to want to spray him with champagne or pour it over his head? why did they walk away from paul to pose for the cameras without him?

you saw how paul and pepe clung to each other on the podium in bahrain. that weekend, it was those two who left another driver out. what's so different now?

ollie and pepe could've been heard chattering from miles away. you only noticed the sound once they stepped out of the elevator on your floor of the hotel a little past midnight.

you hadn't seen either of them since the podium – and frankly, you hadn't wanted to, either – but you assumed they would be in their best spirits. unfortunately, the videos and screenshots of the podium ceremony, along with other content the formula two instagram account posted, have been constantly appearing on your social media feeds all day.

needless to say, this hasn't put you in the best mood.

you stick your head out through your door once you hear their voices get closer, and the two of them are clinging onto each other and giggling like never before. ollie is the first to notice you, his pace slowing and his smile faltering. "what's with the frown?" he asks before you even realize that you look about as mad as you feel. "bad race?"

he usually isn't this blunt. has he been drinking? despite the fact that he has a race tomorrow? "i couldn't care less about my race," you tell him, still staring the two boys down. pepe looks about ready to crawl out of his skin already; sure he's done something wrong, just unsure what.

"then..." your boyfriend begins, eyes flickering up and down your pyjama-clad body. "what's up?"

"what's up?" you repeat with a scoff. "the two of you are terribly immature, that's what's up."

the boys exchange a look before inching closer to you, soon standing right by your door with you. "it's really just the champagne- maybe one other drink, but..." pepe begins, words slurring and mixing in one big mess. "but we'll be okay for tomorrow."

"do either of you have any idea what the time is?" you pull a hand through your hair, shifting your weight from one foot to the other. "the feature starts in like ten hours-" you interrupt yourself, taking a deep breath. "that's not even the point."

"okay... what is the point?" ollie asks, voice weak and unsure.

"i'm so disappointed by how you both acted today on the podium." neither of them seem to understand, so you keep going. "how you treated paul... that was so childish of you."

"wha-"

you don't even let them interject. "it was obvious. you were both shutting him out, even though he's done nothing wrong. he fought just as well as you both for that podium – if not even more, considering how he gained more positions than both of you together – and he did not deserve to be ignored."

the boys are speechless.

they stand still right in the middle of the corridor, mouths hanging slightly agape, not believing their ears at the sound of your little outburst. however, you don't feel even a sliver of guilt; they deserved it. "neither of you have anything to say, huh?" you ask eventually, shaking your head. "unbelievable."

without giving them a chance to say anything, and without wishing them goodnight, you slam the door in their faces and retreat into your room.

the silence on the other side of the door confirms one thing – they got the message.

after a quite chaotic feature race on sunday, with dennis stalling on pole and ollie having to retire due to yet another engine issue, you and the team managed to squeeze every little drop of success out of the race. two podium finishes – you in second and pepe in third – meant that you got to strengthen the lead in the team's championship even further.

considering the fact that you were also shoved wide at one moment when battling with paul and still managed to secure that podium finish, you're definitely pleased with your own race. you and pepe celebrate with the team when you get out of your cars, but the only acknowledgment of his race you give him is a quick pat on his back without even looking at him.

instead, you reach gabriel with a big grin on your lips, throwing an arm across his shoulders as you congratulate him on his first win. he doesn't even seem to notice how you both leave pepe behind as you walk towards the cooldown room together, already going off about the different happenings of the race.

pepe arrives a few moments after you, grabbing his flask of water and slumping into his chair without a word. gabriel tries to involve him in conversations, seemingly too stuck in his race-winning haze to notice the tension, but both you and the spaniard stay mostly quiet throughout the cooldown.

when the cameras cut out and someone tells you all it's time to get to the podium, you're the first to stand and make your way towards the door. but suddenly, a hand wraps around your wrist, pulling you back a meter until your shoulder bumps into a body behind you. pepe's breath is warm against your ear when he whispers into it. "are you going to ignore me all day?"

you turn to throw him a glance over your shoulder – your first eye contact since last night – and after a few quiet moments, you shrug. "probably."

and with that, he's left speechless behind as everyone else hurries to the podium for the ceremony.

with dino's third place in his own race, it meant that the entire 2023 prema f3 lineup got to stand on the podium this weekend. your friend even climbed up to fourth in the f3 championship, so when you two accidentally ran into each other back in the paddock, you threw yourself into his arms instantly.

getting dino to leave the post-race chaos was no easy task. between his habit of stopping to chat with everyone and his claim that he needed to "soak up the podium vibes", you were forced to practically pull him with you to the shared f2 and f3 hospitality.

"things looked quite tense between paul and ollie on the podium yesterday," dino says with a chuckle just as you're reaching into a refrigerator for a soda, making you stop in your tracks. not only are you surprised that he brought it up; the fact that there was a joking tone in his voice is what made your eyebrows furrow.

"that's funny?"

dino blinks at you. "no, i guess not," he mumbles, brain working overtime to figure out what's gotten you acting so strange in just a second.

"i thought it was extremely childish, actually," you say with a shrug, shutting the refrigerator again. "the way that they ignored him, only paid attention to each other…" you watch as dino leans his shoulder against the wall, arms crossed over his chest. "you're still paul's best friend, so you get what i mean, right?"

"i mean, sure. but i also get why ollie and pepe would do that." he puts his hands up in the air as if surrendering when he sees the glare you throw him, yet he keeps speaking. "come on, they're just protective of you, and-"

"oh, so you're on their side now?"

"i'm not on any side!" he exclaims, dragging a hand down his face. "i just think-"

your shoulders feel a little lighter when a voice interrupts dino – and you feel yourself even smiling when you realize who the voice belongs to. "oh, look! it's the podium duo!"

dino laughs and hugs the blonde man who just stepped into the room. paul is already dressed out of his white hitech suit and into regular clothes, curls messy and still a little sweaty. "podium trio, now that you're here," dino says, patting him on the back before pulling away. "good race yesterday."

"thank you, mate," paul smiles brightly. "you deserved that second place, shame it didn't happen." he then turns to you, the brightness of his smile not faltering. "congrats to you, too. things are really turning around, aren't they?"

in more ways than one. "yeah, two feature podiums..." you let out a chuckle, reciprocating the hug he gives you with an equal amount of warmth. "i wouldn't have guessed that after imola."

paul chuckles, too, parting from you to step over to the coffee machine nearby, continuing your small talk for a little while. dino has already stepped away to talk to some prema staff at a nearby table, but you don't mind. being alone with paul doesn't feel strange at all anymore. even if you can't come up with anything interesting to say, it's not like the air is so thick with tension that you can't breathe. your skin doesn't crawl, and you feel at ease – the awkwardness is replaced by something warmer. "so..." he starts, pressing a few buttons on the machine before shooting you a glance. "i'm glad i ran into you. i was actually going to go look for you."

"oh, really?" you ask, unscrewing the cap of your soda and taking a sip. "and why's that?"

"I wanted to apologize." you bite back a comment about that being the first time those words have left his mouth. "about the situation there, when i... fought you a little too hard. it was unnecessary."

the corners of your lips twitch with a smile. "crashing into me would've been unnecessary. this was just racing," you assure him. "you got a penalty for it anyways, right?"

he nods and shrugs, picking up his paper cup when all of the coffee has been poured into it. "just figured i should say it anyways."

"it's alright. besides," you begin walking towards the exit again, and paul instantly follows. "i don't want you to race me any less just because we're friends again."

"oh, so we're friends now?" he asks with a grin, pulling the door open and letting you step outside first. "did you think to let me be a part of that decision? or did you just decide on that all by yourself-"

paul cackles when you shove his shoulder, and you roll your eyes in response. "yes, we are. but i still want you to give your all out there; i wouldn't want to win over you just because you're holding back."

he gives you a nod, opening his mouth to speak again – but when his eyes focus on something behind you, he closes it again. you raise an eyebrow, a lump gathering in your throat when you turn around to find ollie walking over to you.

his dark sunglasses sit perched atop his nose, hiding most of his facial expression, but you assume there's a frown hiding beneath it. "am i interrupting anything?" he asks when he approaches, and your hand instinctively reaches up to the side of his arm when he stops.

"nah," paul is the first to respond. "i was just about to leave, anyway." he looks down at you again, offering a quick smile. "congrats again."

you return the smile and then watch him leave, before tilting your head up to ollie once more. when ollie's gaze still follows his back many seconds later, not even throwing you a glance, your hand drops back to your side. when you begin walking in the opposite direction, ollie finally snaps out of his trance and arrives by your side in a few long steps. "hey," he says, neck craning down in hopes of getting your attention. "i wanted to congratulate you, too."

"sweet."

your chest tightens when you say it, and you know you'd feel even more guilty if you'd look back up at ollie and catch his reaction. so instead, you keep your eyes straight ahead as you try to navigate your way back to the campos truck. "you did really well, you know," he tries, hoping for a better reaction.

however, he doesn't get one. "i do know."

just as you reach your destination, ollie reaches out to grab your wrist, not letting you run away from him. when you finally face him, he pushes his sunglasses up to rest on top of his head instead, revealing those deep brown eyes you've come to love. he doesn't look as irritated as you'd assume; they're more pained and confused. "can we talk?" he asks after a few moments of silence.

you take a deep breath through your nose, turning your head to the side again. you couldn't even keep eye contact with him for ten seconds. "can we do it later?" you mumble, fingers subconsciously reaching up to fiddle with the heart charm hanging from your neck. "i really need to get changed and pack my bag... my flight leaves in just a few hours..."

he sighs, just loud enough for you to catch it over the rest of the commotion in the paddock. "you can't even spare me five minutes?"

"do you really think here and now is the right time?" you counter, looking back up at him just in time for him to turn his own gaze away. he shrugs.

"i guess not." he takes a few steps back. "see you in england, i guess."

and with that, he's gone.

you don't usually pull up your journal in public places; you wouldn't want to have to explain to some nosy staff member if they caught you with it. but right now, the truck is completely empty and silent besides the soft hum of a self-cleaning coffee machine, so you curl up in the corner of the couch with the book in your lap.

is this the end?

yourusername just posted!

yourusername a new podium! so grateful for everything. even dino spamming my phone with selfies. ❤️

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎

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[reonnex]

Wesper Fanfic wip

This is a wip of a wesper fic I had been writing! I know I should be updating my own fic but I was kinda stuck on the next chapter and decided to write something else for a break as that has been the only thing I've been working on since middle of April :)

Note that this is not edited at all and only one small section of it! (Minor cw for mentions of the tonics Jan Van Eck gave wylan and his not so great parenting skills)

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Jesper laughed after a joke Wylan had made, setting the bottle of vodka down on the table infront of them as the night continued on.

Jesper and Wylan had just finished a report on the lastest stocks and had been able to sell some new business that they had been stressing about the past few weeks, which they had to celebrate the fact.

Marya was staying away a few days visting Plumje and Alys who Marya viewed as family as well. She didn't see her as a daughter but did family even need a label?

Wylan had been worried about how Marya and Alys would get along, but he had nothing to worry about! Sure there was a little tension at first. Marya being Van Ecks first wife he tried to kill and Alys having to deal with Van Eck now in Hellgate. But after just a few hours the two became inseparable. Gossping and grinning like friends who kne each other for years.

So naturally, Jesper and Wylan had the night to themselves.

Like school boys breaking into their parents wine collection, Wylan had grabbed a few bottles from the wine celler a laughing giggling mess as he handed one to Jesper.

About only thirty minutes in to the night, Wylans cheeks were bright red now with a lopsided smile and his eyes seemed a bit unfosued.

"Im just saying-" Wylan giggled as the drink sloshed in his hand. "Think about it! Talking is just so interesting! Me just moving my mouth is sending vibrations through the air- Soundwaves- like how does thay even work? How can my body store information in my brain and I can transfer that data out by vibrations so perfect that they form sounds? Or words? For that matter why cant an instrument make words? Why can't an instrument talk to us!" He asked with full seriousness.

"Saints Wy you're such a lightweight." Jesper had laughed shaking his head. "You haven't even had a full bottle yet."

"Psh- I've drunk before! Drank...? I am drunk but I have drank plenty of times."

Jesper laughed out again. He could feel the tug of the acholol on him as well, and was definitely starting to feel drunk right now.

But definitely not as drunk as Wylan.

"You went to mercher parties growing up. How are you this drunk over not even one bottle?"

Because the ones they served at those parties are weak!" Wylan snorted. "They're like- sparkling water. And for your information Jesper Llewellyn Fahey." He teased. "I was too young to drink anything there before my father stopped taking me out in public. " He chuckled, as a unsettling feeling crept into Jesper at that comment. "The barrel though. Now this is drunk material." He held the glass up to the sky. "If this was given out to Merchers then...they would pass out. No one would be able to hold their liqueur. Maybe Kaz should replace them all next time if he wants to know secrets so badly."

Jesper laughed and shook his head again as he drank from his own glass, amused by Wylans rant.

"I used to hate drinking." He said after a moment.

"Im shocked." Jesper replied, gesturing to the now empty bottle sitting on the table infront of them.

Wylan shoved him playfully, resulting in Jesper snickering.

"Im serious!" He slurred out. "Did you know that acholol orginally was made up from rice, honey, and hawthron fruit?"

"I did not." Jesper smiled.

"Yeah! Though it could of just been grapes but it was found in residue clay pots in Shu-Han like- thousands upon thousands of years ago."

Jesper could listen to Wylan ramble for hours.

"Well technically acholol is just the name of a whole rang of molecules that are formed when oxygen and hydrogen atoms bind with an atom of carbon." Wylan explained as he drank more from his glass, frowning when nothing came out before looking back to Jesper. "But in alcoholic drinks, acholol is just the specific small molecule, ethanol." He replied.

"The ethanol....ethanol..." he snapped his fingers as if trying to find the word before finally continuing on. "Taste reminded me of my medication."

What?

"Medication?" Jesper frowned. This was not the direction he expected this coveration to go.

"Yeah!" Wylan smiled out. "Couldn't stand the smell of it for like the longest time. I would get nauseous and worry the doctor my father hired would give me more." Wylan said with such little care.

"Slow down what medicine?" Jesper asked, moving to place his drink down before leaning back on the couch, looking at Wylan worriedly.

"You know! The medication to cure me. To...to try to fix my brain to get me to read? I told you about it didnt I?"

No. No Wylan didn't.

[subrenaspade]

Twisted Wonderland x Reader :No Place For Children Heartslaybul Pt. 1

This story is just some cute fluff I thought that some of you all would enjoy. There might be some cursing, that's all I can think of at the moment. The reader does have a bit of a backstory, giving her a little bit of OC vibes, but besides some background elements the rest is up to you. I only write Female, if that bothers you I'm sorry, I'm used to writing female and I keep having to go back to take away she/her pronouns. 

I do plan to make a series but more along the lines of while in this dorm for one chapter then while in this dorm for this other chapter.

A little background about the MC in my story so you're not all too lost. The MC used to suffer from androphobia (A fear of men), that has to do with some past trauma That I might go into more detail about later on if I decide to continue this story. The MC is also a Orphan losing her father at four, then her mother at fourteen, so there will be mention of family. The MC spent all her time in foster care, due to her mother being an orphan herself and her fathers family disowning him. 

:(Prologue)

Heartslaybul: pt one (you are here)

Savanaclaw: Soon

Octavinelle: Soon

Scarabia: Soon

Pomefiore: Soon

Ignihyde: Soon

Diasomnia: Soon

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The second Riddle had caught sight of the troublesome duo, they had collars around their necks. They also got stuck on hedgehog duty, by themselves may I add. About an hour after arriving (Name) Woke up in the arms of Trey who, let's be honest, was using her as an excuse for some quiet time. (Name) pulled away from the green haired man with glasses with a start, confused about her surroundings. A hand was placed on her head, making her stop frantically looking around. 

“Don't worry, (Name). You are just at Heartslabyul, our dorm.” Trey explained, the girl slowly relaxed at his gentle words. “How was your rest? You where really tired.” Trey laughed a little. (Name) nodded her head as she rubbed some of the lingering sleepiness from her eyes. 

“Oh! (Nickname) is awake! Hey cutie!” A ginger with long hair and a red diamond under his green eyes almost squealed. The girl shrank a little in Trey's arms, making him send a scolding glare at Cater. “Sorry, I didn't mean to scare her.” Cater chuckled warily. Trey stroked her hair soothing the already nervous child. 

“Its okay, He is my friend, Cater. I guess I have yet to introduce myself too, Im Trey.” He explained, knowing that this information might give the girl some comfort. She eyed both men before giving them a hesitant nod. Her body relaxed as she looked at the two boys. 

“Hi Mister Cater and Mister Trey.” The girl said politely. Both boys looked at the young girl, feeling really old all of a sudden. 

“You… uh can just call me Trey..” Trey muttered, feeling tired. 

“Yeah, Just Cater…” Cater followed, sitting next to Trey to pull the girl into his lap. (Name) kinda sat there feeling like a baby getting passed around at a family reunion, once she remembered what happened in Crowley's office. 

~~~(Moving to your POV cause this 3rd person is throwing me off)~~~

I shifted around as Cater started to play with my hair. As strange as it was, these strangers didn't seem dangerous to me, they almost felt comfortable. I jolted as I heard someone coming into the living room we were in. I turned around to see the man from earlier with something around his neck. I smiled at the sight of him, leaping off of Caters lap and rushed over to him.

“Ace!” I cheered as I wrapped my arms around his legs, earning a yelp from him. He had frozen in my grasp as I looked up at him. A sly smirk played on his lips as he kneeled down in front of me, meeting me at eye level.

“Hey pip squeak. I see you're awake now.” Ace said as he patted my head. I grinned at him with a nod. “It's good to see that you calmed down now. I thought that I was going to have to get the tickle monster after you earlier.” He said as he started to poke at my side. I let out a small squeal, giggling at his playfulness. I reached out and booped his nose, making him freeze. A slow evil smile played on his lips as he raised both hands slowly, wiggling his fingers to indicate that he was going to tickle me for real. I yelped as I bolted away and around the couch with him following me. 

I let out playful cries for help, though it only made the boys chuckle or smile at us. After running around for a bit I finally started to feel my little legs tire out a little, so I ducked behind the leg of a navy blue haired boy who had entered with Ace when he came in. I held his leg breathing really hard, trying to catch my breath. Ace had stopped in front of us with his arms out ready to catch me. The boy looked down at me with a blush. I fisted his pants leg in my hands giving him my best pleading look. “Please help me, mister.” I begged he stiffened at my words looking shocked I was asking him for help. Ace froze at that too, giving me a shocked expression. 

We all sat in silence for a few, then the boy swooped me off my feet and into his arms. A look with fierce determination and a challenging smirk played across his lips. Then… He bolted. I squealed as he took off down the hallway and out the door into the front yard or was it a garden. I saw Ace rushing after us and giggled into The boy's shoulder. “Deuce! You traitor!” Ace called out. I felt the boy laugh at the call out of his betrayal. 

“It can't be helped! You saw her face!” The boy who I now know as Deuce called back. “She was too cute!” 

I gave Ace an ornery wave as I tightened my grip on Deuces shoulders. Ace gave a scowl at me but soon replaced it with a smirk. He tried to pick up the pace, though Deuce still seemed to run faster than him. I then saw Aces face drop into what I would assume was horror. Followed by Deuce letting out a gasp and slipping on his own two feet. I yelped as I felt his feet slide under him, letting him land on his butt. He made sure to keep a firm grip on me, even going as far as to place a hand on my head to prevent me from bumping my head. 

“What do you two think you're doing..” I heard someone seeth. I stiffened at the enraged tone, gripping Deuces jacket. Ace had caught up to us and stopped right next to us. 

“We were just playing-” Ace was cut off with a stern voice. 

“You two have yet to do the flamingo enclosure, and your out here playing?” I had finally looked up from Deuce's shoulder to see that it was the red haired boy from earlier. I shivered at the look of anger on his face. “First you cause an accident in your class, then you try to-” I looked down feeling guilty since I was the one who got them in trouble. I pushed off of Deuce, somehow getting out of his tight hold, making Riddle snap his lips shut. I stood in front of both of them, trying to act like a shield while looking down in shame.

“I-Im sorry mister. I was the one who had them play with me. I-If you need to punish me.” I claimed to feel my legs shake. I pulled all my courage to look up and met the red hairs glare. His eyes were wide as saucers and his mouth shut and closed like a fish out of water. Slowly his face turned red. He stood still as a statue and stared at me as if contemplating every life choice he made. Finally after defeating silence he sighed, seeming to relax. He moved his gaze back to Deuce and Ace.

“Go finish the rest of your chores.” He commanded, earning surprised looks from the two boys. He looked back down at me and held out his hand. “You will be coming with me, we need to talk for a bit.” He started, waiting patiently for me to take his hand. I nodded my head, taking his hand. I turned and waved at the two still shocked boys as we walked away. 

~~~~~( third POV)~~~~

The little girl hung her head in shame as she was led through the hallways. Riddle felt a cold sweat run down his neck. Riddle can honestly say he had no clue what to do with her. He didn't have a real childhood like many of his peers, and he knew that not every child would be able to follow the rules that he had abided by in his raising. This meant that he had to control his temper and learn to let some rules go, even though it went against everything he learned. 

He was normally very lenient with her since she was from another world with no knowledge of the rules here, but she had always made an effort into abiding all the ones she could remember and keeping in mind the ones he would explain to her if she broke a rule unknowingly. However a child wouldn’t be able to remember all of them, so with a talk with Trey, as long as there was really no harm he would let it go. 

Finally making it to his room, he opened the door and ushered the young child in. He had asked Trey to bring in some tea and snacks that sat on the small coffee table in front of his chairs. Riddle finally released the girl's hand walking over to pour the tea. 

“Go ahead and have a seat (Name).” Riddle ordered. The little girl who was sure she was in trouble, nodded her head and crawled onto the sofa waiting for her scolding to begin. She looked down at her hands in shame as she waited for him to start, only he never did. She stiffened a little when a tea cup on a saucer blocked her view of her hands. She looked up at Riddle who held out the drink to her. With steady hands she took them into her hands, making sure not to spill anything. She looked back up at him confused at the kind gesture. 

“I suppose I should introduce myself” Though you already know me Riddle fought the urge to say. “I am Riddle Rosehearts, the dorm leader of this dorm. For the next few days and nights you will be staying here and sleeping in my room. Some of the students have offered to let you tag along with them during classes. So you wont be alone.” He explained, taking a sip of his tea. His eyes drifted to the still confused girl. She bobbed her head up and down to show that she understood him. “Trey told me I should inform you that I can be a little…… strict when it comes to rules… But I will try too be lenient and let some things go since these rules will seem… odd to you.”  Riddle tried to explain in a slow but easy manner. 

“Rules? But aren't there rules for a reason?” She asked, tilting her head.

“EXACTLY!!” Riddle exclaimed, making the child jump in surprise. He stared at her awkwardly then moved back to cough into his hand. “It's more… tradition for this dorm. So there is no need to worry about it.” He explained. The girl nodded still startled. She finally tilted her head at him confused.

“So mister Riddle… You're not mad at me?” She asked. He looked at her confused at the question. 

“No, why would I be?” 

“Well, you were really mad when we were playing earlier…” She explained. It was Riddle's turn to jump a little. He placed his saucer down as he recalled that he never explained that situation, though he would have to jump over special information.

“There seems to be a misunderstanding. I was more upset with Deuce and Ace for dodging their punishment. You see they put someone I care about in a bind due to their negligence. I MEAN SOMEONE WHO IS IMPORTANT TO MANY PEOPLE IN A BIND!!” Riddle corrected the last part as he realized he admitted out loud he cared for the perfect, though she had no clue she was the person. 

“Oh…” She said, looking at him in understanding. 

“A-Anyways dinner will be ready before too long, go wash up!” Riddle stood feeling his nerves rattle around. She looked at him then down at the tea she had yet to touch. She chugged it down and slid off the sofa to place it on the coffee table. She let her eyes linger on the cookies on the try, hesitantly looking up at him.

“Be for that… c-can I have a cookie?” She asked. Riddle felt his mouth form a no, but stopped himself. It was like a wave of trauma washed over him. He stood there, living every moment his mother told him he was not allowed to have any sweets or anything that was considered not healthy. Every smoke on his hand, Every time he was forced to sit at his desk  to work on a problem or think over his actions that were wrong in his mothers eyes. His hands trembled and he bit into his lip to keep from having a wail leave his throat. 

A hand. 

A small hand grabbed his arm and held on tight. He blinked his wide eyes still holding the trauma that he was reliving. The small girl stared up at him, worried swimming in her expressful eyes. He gave him a gentle nudge, making his legs buckle under his weight. However she had him pushed against the chair he was once sitting on. She crawled up next to him and wrapped her arms around his neck. All those horrible memories faded away as the warmth of her arms brought comfort to his shocked heart. He sat there silently as he regained his composure. His breath that he had not noticed he was holding started to come out in slow and even breaths. 

Once his brain started to catch up he wondered what happened. He has told many people no before. It was a common word he used for the troublesome duo, why was it so different all of a sudden. He then looked at the girl who still held him in her small arms as if protecting him. Maybe it was because he was saying no to a child?  (Name) Finally pulled away from him, noticing he had calmed down. 

“Are you feeling better?” She asked in a small voice. She stroked his hair as if comforting a child. He then came to the understanding that this was not the first time comforting someone. She analyzed the situation and his person and acted how she thought fit. No child should be able to react like that. 

“H…have you done this before?” He asked. The girl gave him a small nod.

“When anyone mentions daddy to mommy… she gets the same look in her eyes you do. Hugging her and letting her sit helps….” She explained, still stroking his hair. He felt his body droop a little, this time wrapping his arms around her to get an extra grounding. The small child did not complain or say anything to make him pull away, she wrapped her arms around in return and leaned into him. 

“That's…. Not something I would have expected….” He muttered, trying to finish gathering his thoughts. He felt the child let out a tired sigh, but not say another word. He already knew she had suffered quite a few loses in her life, from her father, then her trust, than her mother. But he didn't know what happened to her after the passing of her father. Not once has she brought it up or pushed blame onto her mother. However as an adult she was never one to bring up much about herself without being asked. That seems to be similar to her as a child. Someone who had to learn to be sympathetic and selfless at a young age. Someone who gave up their childish mind at a young age to please others. Someone…. Who was starting to seem similar to him in many more aspects, yet different in their own situation. They both just held each other, enjoying the human contact the silent comfort they got from the other. 

‘Knock Knock” 

“Riddle, you guys ready to go get dinner?” Trey’s voice came from the other side of the door. The second a knock hit the door, Riddle stiffened, but when he heard Treys voice he relaxed, knowing that Trey would not enter without permission. He pulled back, coughing into his hand to get the nerves out of his voice.

“Yes, we are coming.” Riddle called out, cursing the quiver in his voice. The child pulled away letting him have his space. She reached over for the tea, pouring him a cup and handing it to him, hoping that it would make him feel better. Out of every rule in the book, from the way she poured it and failed to place three cubes of sugar in it, he could not turn down her kind offer. He took the cup and took a sip, earning a gentle smile from the young girl. He fought the horrible feeling of breaking the rules and downed the tea like a champ. Once finished he stood up, taking the (Name) into his arms and walking to the door to go have dinner. 

[angel-eyes05]

i remember his hands - chapter 3

PAIRING: kang the conqueror x fem!reader

SUMMARY: after a scientific experiment goes horribly wrong, you've been transported to the quantum realm and have been stuck there for the past decade. with no company, aside from janet van dyne, your life changes forever when a mysterious man in a golden ship crash lands next to your settlement. startled with his initial presence, you two have a rocky start. but as time goes on, you two find each other slowly drawn to one another. you have secrets though, and he has a past he refuses to bring up. can you two make it through navigating an unknown world together, discovering any ulterior motives, and stand the test of time in a place where time has no meaning at all?

INFO: slow romantic burn, pretty fast sexual burn, kinda enemies to lovers????, takes place during that little flashback janet has during quantumania, idk how accurate this is gonna be to canon stuff cause i get very confused about the quantum realm lol, reader is in mid to late 20s while kang is in his “early 30s” (ik he like technically doesn't age or whatever idk the lore but i just made it accurate to jonathan majors age and wanted to give an accurate age range/gap/count), y/n will be very fleshed out like im gonna give her everything lol

WARNING: explicit language, smut (minors dni), masturbation (f), oral sex (fem receiving), cum play, not a very happy ending (guys aftercare is important)

CHAPTER WORD COUNT: 2.5k

NOTES: i just wanna say thank you for all the love recently! idk if ill set a specific schedule for when ill release the chapters or not cause honestly i just work better whenever i write when i want without a time constraint so thats probably what i’ll end up doing. if you want me to write a specific one shot for kang or even another character (i feel most comfortable writing for mcu, star wars, the last of us, and stranger things, but if i know the piece of media youre talking about and feel comfortable writing about the character, im down) just lmk! also i decided at the last second this was gonna be a smuty chapter so..yeah!

PREVIOUS PART

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It had been about two weeks since you found Kang at the crash site. Despite the moment you two had when you first fixed him up, you two had very little interactions since then. It made sense though. Both of you were taking your own separate times to heal, you in your room, bedridden from your horrible headaches, him on the couch, still unable to walk due to his foot and abdomen. According to Janet, he hasn’t been very talkative. He would occasionally respond to her comments about how he was feeling, but wouldn’t say anything about where he came from or why he was here. So she just stopped asking. It took a while for you to open up to Janet about how you got here at first as well though, so you understood why he would be all shut up about it. It got you thinking about how you ended up here. How much you left behind. God you wish you got the chance to leave a note or something. At the very least, for them…

You quickly dragged yourself out of that thought, knowing the path it would lead you down led to nothing but wasted tears. It was late at night, and you laid sleepless in your bed, so it was easy to let your mind wander. To distract yourself, you replayed the moment with him in your mind. You were a little touch starved, in that way at least, so feeling Kang’s hand in that sensitive of an area drove you mad. Thinking about it would always give you the same reaction. Butterflies slowly fluttering into your stomach, roses blooming onto your cheeks, and the near uncontrollable urge to touch yourself. You know your relationship was non existent right now and had a horrible start, but sometimes you wondered what would happen if you walked over to the couch right now and started to kiss him. The only thing you ended up doing though was changing your now soaked underwear.

You always felt bad when you let yourself think like that. Poor guy was probably just looking for something to hold while he was in pain. And you were taking advantage of it. Then again, you remembered how he slowly pulled his fingers away from your thigh once you were finished stitching him up, an act that did seem very purposeful. Again though, he might have done that unconsciously. You always sent yourself into this back and forth inner dialogue with yourself about his intentions in that moment. Whether you liked it or not, during the past two weeks, you’ve only had two things on your mind: your pain, and him.

With the mix of your restless mind, the ache between your legs, and your now grumbling stomach, you decide to get out of bed and go to the kitchen to find something to eat. Also partially because you would get to see him, awake or not. To be honest, you preferred him asleep. You could just admire him from a far, without the complexities of a conversation to mess anything up. You crept into the hallway, adjusting your eyes from the dim light in your room to the rest of the house, enveloped in the darkness. Thankfully, you knew the layout of the house well, so you doubted you would trip over anything. You wandered throughout the cabin until you got past Janet’s room and into the kitchen. You didn’t realize how flawed your plan was, it just now clicking that you wouldn’t be able to see Kang in the darkness. You didn’t entirely mind though. Just knowing he’s in the same room as you put your thoughts slightly at ease. 

You finally make it to the counter and put your arms out to find something. They land on a round, spiked fruit. Too scared of accidentally cutting yourself if you use a knife to peel it, you decide just to bite into it. Juice drips down from your mouth as your teeth sink into the fruit. Although the food here was no where near as good as back home, you managed to find a few gems here. The fruits were definitely one of them. Once you finish with the fruit, you use the sleeve of your loose shirt to wipe your mouth. You paced the room a bit, still kind of restless. Your eyes still haven’t entirely adjusted to the dark, but you think you have a pretty good standing of your ground. That is until you trip over the back of the couch. You brace yourself for the impact of flying over the couch and waking up everyone in the process, until you’re suddenly stopped.

It’s a hand. No, not just a hand. The hand. His hand.

Again, it stays there longer than it should have. Placed just below where your sternum meets your breasts. You could feel your heart beating faster the longer his hand stayed there. “You’re a loud chewer” Kang finally said. It was more of a deep whisper though. God you loved the sound of his voice, despite the few times you heard it. “You must be a light sleeper then” you replied in a similar tone. Despite still not being able to see his face, you could tell he was smirking. He slowly push you back up to your normal position. The trick was that he didn’t move his hand. He actually tightened his grip on your shirt. That’s when it clicked for you. He wanted it just as bad as you did. 

You then placed your hand over Kang’s, rubbing deep circles just below his knuckles with your thumb. Then, he began to pull you by your shirt to the front side of the couch. You followed his hand until he stopped pulling, leaving you in the same place you were when you stitched up his shoulder. You stood there as he began to move his hand down from your sternum. The feeling of him dragging his fingers down your body at an agonizingly slow pace was enough to get your starved pussy wet. Then he got to your hips, where your loose pants rested. He then took his other hand and used both hands to drag your pants off. Once you kicked them off, he went back up to your panties, hooking his pointer finger around the sides of them and dragged those off even slower than the pants. 

He then placed his hands on your bare hips, digging his thumbs into them. A slight moan escaped your lips. In response, he placed his finger over your mouth in a shushing action. “She can’t hear you.’’ You were overcome with embarrassment at the fact you were so enveloped in the thought of having sex with Kang that you forgot that Janet was only a room away. You decided now you had to be silent, however hard that would prove to be later. He put that hand back on your hip and helped you onto his chest. You placed your hands over his shirtless shoulders, being mindful of his left one. You pressed your hands deeply into them and began to massage them. Thank god your eyes had finally adjusted to the dark, because now you could see every emotion playing across his face as you sunk your hands deeper into his shoulder muscles. You moved the massage down his arms, making your way to his biceps. They were massive and tough. All you could think about was how much you wanted them around your neck. Ironic. Once you moved on from those and finally made it to his hands, you took hold of them.

You used them to help you take off your shirt and bra. After tossing your bra to the floor, you placed his hands on your breasts and began to grope them with his hands. His eyes rolled back into his head, and as soon as you could tell he was about to moan, you smashed your lips into his to capture it. You took your hands off of his to cup his jaw to fully envelop yourself in the kiss. He kept one hand on your breast while he moved the other one down and began to run circles around your clit. You softly moaned into his mouth with each rotation he made. As each second went by, the kiss became more intense. More desperate. You had no idea how long it had been since he had touched someone like this, and you knew it had been forever since you were touched like this. You two both had some desperation to your actions. Like this would be the last time either of you would experience something like this ever again. Both of you so starved of touch. You needed this so badly, and part of you knew he needed it too.

As he began to circle your clit with more ferocity, you felt the heat in your chest growing stronger. God he had just started and you were already about to come. You didn’t to yet. If you did, that meant it would be over. Lucky for you, you felt his hand pull away from your clit. He pulled away from the kiss ass well, panting. “I need you to help me up for a second” he said. You reluctantly got up, wondering if he was just going to leave you here like this. It was just now that you realized how naked you were. Sure, he didn’t have a shirt on, but you still felt much more exposed than him for some reason. You helped him up onto his feet, also now realizing exactly how much taller he was than you. Seeing him staring down at you like that. Like you had suddenly become the most important thing in the world to him. Suddenly, he turned you around and shoved you onto the couch. You sat there as he kneeled down and began too kiss your inner thighs.

He moved those strong, dry hands of his to the top of your thighs and sprayed them out against them. He dug his fingers into them as he moved his mouth from your inner thigh to your lips. Feeling his warm breath against them in the cold room sent shivers down your spine. You grabbed the top of his head for leverage as you thrust your hips into his mouth.  “Look at you” he said in between kisses. “Being such a good girl and getting so wet for me. Seems like you completely forgot about the fact we were trying to kill each other two weeks ago.” It was strange to you a little. You had convinced yourself you wouldn’t be safe in the same house as Kang, and now here you were, completely naked on the couch with him eating you out. 

He wasn’t doing enough though. You weren’t nearly as satisfied as you were when he was circling your clit. He had yet to stick his tongue in you, all he was doing was kissing your folds. He was just teasing you again. “P-please” you said desperately. “I-I need y-you d-deeper.” He removed his mouth from your area and moved his hand to your clit again as he talked to you to keep you stimulated. “Oh thats what you want now? Am I not doing enough for you? Because I could stop if that’s what you prefer.” “N-n-no!” you nearly shouted out. “P-please, I-I j-just wanna f-feel you.” He sat there for a moment thinking, fingers still on your clit. “P-please Kang-g.” You asked again, looking deep into his eyes. “Well, since you asked so nicely. And plus, how could I say no to someone as pretty as you. Sitting there so neat and ready for me.” 

Next thing you know, he dives back in, his tongue licking all over your folds and into your pussy. Your strangled moan makes one strange noise, but he must have liked it because he moved his hands up to grab deep into your hips in response. God you could stay here for hours. Layed here sprawled out on the couch with him eating you out. You just wish you could moan and whine for you. You wanted so desperately to scream his name out into the world and let it know how much he had you under his grasp. And you knew he wanted it also. But that was part of the appeal of everything. Knowing you had to stay quite. It made it more enticing. But man you couldn’t wait until you had the cabin to yourself. When he could fuck you through your bed properly, where you could scream his name at the top of your lungs, and him with yours. For now though, you would take this. It was enough for what you needed right now.

As he moved his tongue from your folds to your swollen clit, he begins to suck on it. You felt the heat return back to your core as you itched with pleasure, a roaring tide begging to wash from your pelvis into his mouth. The heat of his breath on you, the tightening grip of his hands on your hips, his tongue fluttering over your folds and clit, the soft hums he would make after tasting you. “F-fuck K-kang. I-I-I’m gonna c-cum” you said, the words barely making it out of your mouth without being mixed with a moan. He nods slightly in approval, gliding his tongue over your folds like silk and moving on of his hands to circle your clit to help pull it out of you. Finally, you feel the wave escape your pussy. You grab a pillow near you and release all your moans and screams into as the ecstasy exits you and enters his mouth. You arch your back as he tries to swallow as much of your cum as he can. You’re blinded by the intensity of your orgasm as your thighs tense up and you can hardly move anything, except to move the noises out of your mouth.

Once you finish, Kang stays there, licking off the last of your essence off your folds and feeling your throbbing clit under his tongue. He backs away from your pussy and moves up to your mouth as he kisses you, sharing with you some of your cum. He uses your shirt to clean up his mouth and the remaining bits of cum from your folds. To your surprise though, after that, he tosses the shirt on the floor, stands up, and walks away to your room. In shock, you convince yourself he went to your room to grab you a new change of clothes. Once you hear the door close though, you snap yourself back into reality. Looking down at yourself, naked and trembling (part from the cold and part from the orgasm), embarrassment floods your body. You couldn’t believe how easy you gave yourself up for him. God you knew you were desperate, but you didn’t know you were that desperate. And there he was in the other room, sleeping in your bed. Leaving you there on the couch, laying out naked, waiting for someone to take you away like some fantasy. But there you were. Alone. And really fucking cold.

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NEXT PART

A/N: yeaaaaaaaah, i needed drama so i did that. sucks but i didnt have any other ideas sorry lol. hope you liked the chapter though! this was actually my first time writing smut so i hope i didnt do that bad. looking forward to chapter 4!!! also sorry i didnt really proofread this one either cause it was super late when i posted it so sorry

[angy-mouse]

Puck Bunny Part 3

5.7k, no smut but definite M-rated banter and important plot (unless you're just here for the foursomes in which case you can skip this chapter ig but its pretty integral for the finale)

&lt;previous next>

do you wanna go on a date?

Read 5 Minutes Ago

You stared at the message, sent directly instead of through the group chat. As if that wasn't weird enough, you'd just gone on a date (with heavy air quotes) with the three of them and you had yet to get your panties back, thank you very much. You started drifting down memory lane and forced yourself to snap out of it. This was not lecture appropriate thinking.

You get another text.

with me, idk if that was obvious lol. sap + sam are stuck running drills all afternoon bc they suck

Okay, so not a group thing. That was good, at least. You might be able to walk after all. Except…

Honestly, you don't feel like sex. Not even mind-blowing, four-orgasms-in-a-row, written-by-a-woman sex. You were tired, and still sore, and really craving something fruity but also sweet? Maybe a chocolate orange. Point being you did not feel sexy and imagining a naked man only stirred thoughts of needing to buy lotion.

i was thinking shopping and dinner - my treat ofc - but whatever you want is cool too x

Fuck, you do need a sweater. Damn changing seasons making your sundress collection obsolete. 

You flipped your phone over and closed your eyes, taking a deep breath and rolling your shoulders back. Fuck the rest of the lecture hall, you were aceing this class anyway and you needed to check in.

Do you want to see Punz today?

You didn't even have to think about it. Of course you did, you wanted to see all three of them and maybe shove your face in their perfectly perky pecs, but so far seeing them entailed sex, which you were not up for. You didn't think for a second that Punz wouldn't accept a no, but you were 50/50 on whether you would cave at the first touch just to experience that intimacy.

Call yourself a slut, but it was kinda hard to deny a man who acted like you were a literal goddess. 

Next question: do you want to go on a date today?

As long as it was a date-date and not their last idea of a date, that would actually be nice. You were past the awkward small talk stage with Punz, so no fumbling or awkward silences should happen. Plus you already knew he would compliment you to the high heavens, which certainly couldn't hurt your mood.

So what were you waiting for?

You thought, but you couldn't find an answer. A handsome, fit guy who treated you amazing and was great in bed wanted to take you shopping and treat you to dinner. You'd have to be a fucking idiot not to.

You flipped your phone back over and found another text.

no pressure ofc, but id be a fucking idiot not to try spending time with you without the peanut gallery

You snorted, thumbs gliding over the screen to save him from his nerves. Even if he was cute when he rambled.

tbh shopping and dinner sounds exactly what I need rn

A beat where you thought too much and got lost for just a moment. You bit the bullet, putting a heart on the end and hitting send. Then, as an afterthought:

should I change?

what are you wearing?

For a moment you considered telling him you forgot about a lecture you can't miss, and you actually can't go and you're so sorry but maybe next time-

omg wait not like THAT

i just mean last two times i saw you you were wearing a cute asf dress and then that nice shirt with big sleeves and the black skirt so as far as im concerned anything you wear is perfect

He's talking about your lantern sleeve blouse. Something about the way he fumbles, not knowing anything about what things are called and only knowing that he liked them enough to remember makes you just melt.

oh lol well thank you. Did you wanna meet somewhere or…

The response is instant.

ill come pick you up! whens your last class get out?

You tell him and get a thumbs up and heart emoji pairing, then a gif of snoopy doing his happy dance that makes you laugh under your breath.

"Stop sexting in class,"

You flinch and clutch your phone to your chest before recognition kicks in and you glare at Niki. "I'm not sexting," you hiss. "Punz is picking me up for a date." She rolls her eyes. "An actual date." You didn't know why you needed her to be happy for you so badly. Maybe with both your long term best friend and slightly less long term boyfriend both kicked out of your life, you were just craving companionship. It would certainly explain your current disaster of a dating life. 

"Okay," she says but it doesn't sound like she means it. "Just so you know, I only have one romcom binge weekend in me a year, so if this harem breaks your heart, too, you're on your own." 

"I appreciated that, you know." She blinks like she wasn't expecting anything less than snark, but you meant it. You came into your dorm with eyes so full of tears you didn't even realize she was there until she was coaxing you into your PJs and shoving a carton of Ben & Jerry's into your lap. Suddenly your mysterious roommate you only saw once in a blue moon when your schedules rarely overlapped was the shoulder you were crying on, voice ringing through your ears promising you were still the baddest bitch and he was the loser here.

"It's no big deal," she finally decided. "You need to learn people don't deserve praise for not treating you like crap." 

You didn't have a comeback for that, so you finished class in silence.

"Do I get to meet this one, too?"

You can't fight your smile. "You want to?"

"Gotta make sure you're not dropping your standards. Again." 

"I changed my mind: fuck off." She curled her hands into a heart with a grin before you turned away, hearing her chase after you. 'Chase' very loosely translated to 'took four quick steps to easily catch up because she's a lot fitter than you.' Damn skinny people.

"If he just pulls up and honks, you are not getting in the car. Date ends there."

"Any particular reason?"

"A man who can't wait to get out of the car to greet you can't wait long enough for you to come."

You grinned over your shoulder as you walked into the afternoon sun. "Oh, believe me: not a concern."

"Ew,"

"You started it."

"And I'm finishing it." 

Tires screeching on pavement caught your attention, just in time to watch two students nearly get run over by a cherry red Challenger. You bit your cheek. "You don't think…" 

The car came to a stop right in front of the stairs (only because it was physically incapable of climbing them, you were sure) showing off the VAL-U sticker on the back window.

"I do think," Niki said solemnly. A single honk came from the car. "Oh, fuck no-"

"Niki, please," you begged as you watched Punz climb out of the driver's seat in a crisp collared shirt, buttoned only enough to be appropriate in public. You practically melted as he gave you that sparkling grin, running a hand through his blond locks as he climbed the stairs two at a time to join you. 

"I had one rule for you-"

"Sorry," Punz breathed out, pressing a tender kiss to your cheek, close enough you could feel the faint heat rushing through his face. "I slammed my elbow on the horn trying to unplug my phone."

You'd be embarrassed by the loud snort that left you if you weren't so grateful it drowned out Niki's, "you're lucky, valley."

"You look beautiful." It was hard to believe when you'd just sounded like a literal pig. At least, it would be if he wasn't looking at you like you hung the stars, hands sliding back on either side of your waist until he was holding you gently against him. His lips ghosted over yours. "I missed you, bunny."

You missed him, too. “You saw me two days ago,” you say instead, but you let your hands link against the nape of his neck as he gives you a soft kiss. Something more than a peck, but nothing you were embarrassed to do in front of Niki. Something just right.

“And it was painful,” he announced, squeezing you tighter against him like he knew it would make you giggle into his neck. “Forty-eight hours with Big and Rich for company.”

“Are you ever going to run out of demeaning nicknames for them?”

“Haven’t yet. Hi-” It takes you a second to realize he’s talking to Niki over your head. “Friend?”

That one was directed at you, so you hum an affirmative and gently peel yourself away to run through introductions. Punz only lets you get out of one arm, the other moving to hang over your shoulders with a squeeze that clearly said ‘that one stays.’ “This is my roommate, Niki. Niki-”

“Punz,” she mused, offering her hand. “I know all about you.”

“Is this a shovel talk?”

“No. I don’t talk before shoveling.”

“Niki,” you beg, but Punz gives her a firm shake.

“Big fan of that,” he declared with a grin. “I’ve got a buddy with a truck, we should get you two in contact.”

She nodded solemnly. “Alright,” she directed at you, “you can go on the date.”

“Niki!”

She took your keys off your bag. “I’ll take your car back to the dorm. Don’t get pregnant.”

“NIKI!”

“Bye, Niki,” Punz cheered with a cackle, arm around your shoulders keeping you from chasing after her to commit some mild manslaughter. “Nice to meet you!”

“Don’t say, ‘nice to meet you,’ when she’s humiliating me.” You got a kiss pressed to the side of your head instead of an apology as he started down the steps, dragging you along with. The gentle pressure of his arm on your neck solidified your feeling like a yappy chihuahua being tugged along by the leash. It all felt a stark difference to the usual sultry air that followed you around these three. This actually felt like a… date. Not a sex on the nearest surface date, but a proper meet the parents soon date. 

You tried not to think about how scary that was.

Instead, you thanked Punz as he held open your door, your hand in his as he helped you climb in. You held in a giggle as he shut the door behind you and raced around the hood like he was worried you’d leave without him. “What are we shopping for,” he asked as he threw himself into his seat, but you were distracted.

“Why do you have a suicide knob?”

He grinned, wide and toothy, tongue poking out as he used the knob to wiggle the steering wheel. “Because it’s fun.”

You buckled your seatbelt. 

“Oh, come on,” he huffed, pulling out of the parking lot. “I’ve never gotten into so much as a fender bender with this car.”

“This car?”

“Don’t say it like that! I haven’t gotten into an accident since I was a teenager, is that better?” 

“Yeah, and what are you now, twenty?”

“Twenty-five,”

“Oh my god, you’re old.”

You regretted it as soon as you said it. You were so not at the stage where you could make fun of each other and especially not something as potentially sensitive as his age and why he's still at University-

"Well, you're a brat, so I thought we made a good pair." There's a beat where your mind races, but Punz reaches over to take your hand off your lap and cuts it short. "That was a joke. I know you're not a brat." 

"Only a little bit," you admit, and squeeze him back, a little promise that you didn't take it harshly. "If you were serious about taking me shopping, I could use some warm clothes for fall.”

The car pulled to a smooth stop at the light, and he fixed you with a look like you’ve accused him of secretly kicking puppies. “Dead serious. I love shopping.”

“You’re clearly very passionate about this.” 

He took his stare off you to pull through the light, bringing your joined hands up to his lips. “Well, I have an addictive personality, a great credit score, and excellent fashion sense.”

“Oh, yeah?”

“Hey, what’s with the doubt?!”

“Don’t get me wrong,” you promise, using your joined hands to gesture to his open shirt, “today’s pirate-with-no-inhibitions look is super sexy, and I’m a big fan of the pleather pants, but every other time I’ve seen you, you wore a hoodie and basketball shorts.”

“That’s not fair: you always see me after practice! I can't squeeze into these pants while I’m still sweaty.”

“Well, I’m very appreciative of your sacrifice.” You wait until he’s looking at you to pointedly eye up his thick thighs, practically seran-wrapped in black fabric. “Very appreciative.”

“Bunny’s secretly a pervert,” he accused, “God, I’m not a slab of meat.”

“Really?”

He finally broke, laughing so hard he hit the rumble strips and had to swerve back into the lane. “You’re such a little shit! You’re lucky it makes you lovable instead of annoying.”

“You three practically snap me in half every time I see you: I’m allowed some eye candy!”

“I’ll be your eye candy,” he promised, and flicked open another button on his shirt. “Boom.”

“Whoa, now,”

“Too hot?”

“I nearly creamed.”

“I hate you,” he wheezed, shoving the gearshift into park. “Get the fuck out of my car.”

“Rudeness!”

His hand snatched yours when you reached for the door. “Wait, I wasn’t serious!”

“I’m getting out!”

“No, wait for me!”

“I’m getting out, and I’m telling Sam you let me open my own door!”

“No, he’ll kill me!”

“Good!” Despite the snap, you can’t pry the smile off your face and you find yourself staying perfectly still in your seat as Punz races around the hood again. “Oh, Merci,” you chirped, taking his offered hand as you stepped out.

“De nada, my little bunny." 

His arm laid across your shoulders again like you were boyfriend-girlfriend on an average date. He even reached out to open the door for you as you walked into the mall. But you weren't boyfriend-girlfriend, you were a puck bunny brat. "Every time I think you're kinda sweet, you call me that." 

"It's a talent of mine: making an ass of myself. Where do you wanna look first?" 

“I usually go to Salvation Army.”

Punz started walking towards the Aeropostale, dragging you along with. “I’m offended you think I’d offer to take you shopping and take you to Salvation Army.” 

You started struggling, grabbing a fistful of his shirt to try and curb him. Your heels tried to find purchase on the tile, but he slid you across the floor like dragging a sled. “I’m a college student! And so are you, for that! I’m not letting you spend your food cash for the week on clothes for me- Jesus Christ, how are you this strong?!”

He stopped, but it had nothing to do with your attempts. He spun you in his arms as if you were nothing more than a doll to him, something he could carry with him and arrange however he wanted. The thought made you feel equal parts small and bratty, but his hands on your hips made you bite your tongue as he held you close. His eyes were stern, a slight tremble in his features betraying his nerves.

“Alright, I’m gonna tell you something, and I don’t want you to freak out.”

Oh, you were totally going to freak out.

“I didn’t want to say this so soon because it totally changes how people think of me, but you’re clearly going to fight me on this, so here it is.” He took a deep breath, eyes screwed shut in a wince. “I’m a trust fund kid. My parents are loaded.”

It didn’t click at first. Not until you blinked. “... oh my god?”

He nodded solemnly. “I know.”

It was a shock, the same way any new information about someone you knew was a shock: mild brain buffer as your mental file was updated. Other than that, though… You couldn’t seem to care. Other than, of course, another chance to mouth off. “Oh my god,” you performed, shaking his shoulders. “Eat the rich, Punz!”

“I’m not into butt stuff,”

“I hate you,” you lied, trying to push away. “I hate you and your gated mansion community-”

“I live in the frat house, it’s practically a homeless shelter.”

“You and your diamond studded underwear-”

“Where are you getting your information on rich people: Richie Rich?”

“You’re an old rich guy, too!” You gasped, clapping your hands on either of his cheeks. He gave a minor wince from the impact, but it was swept away just as quickly by rapt attention as you pressed your forehead to his. “Am I a sugar baby?” 

“Well, you haven’t actually let me buy you anything yet-”

“Wrong answer.”

He shook his head between your hands, essentially making you slap him repeatedly. “No, bunny, you’re not a sugar baby, not in the slightest. Now, can I buy you more clothes than you can ever wear?”

Your gaze narrowed, but it probably wasn’t as intimidating as you hoped when you had to cross your eyes to look at him. “You swear your wallet won’t feel it?”

“May lightning strike me down.”

It took a moment, but with not even a rumble of thunder, you supposed you had to believe him. “Alright,” you conceded, “but we’re going somewhere that actually carries my size.”

<3E>

“I’ve never been in a Torrid,” Punz admits to you as you walk in.

“Really? You don’t lurk in the lingerie section hunting for big women?”

“There’s a lingerie section?” He’s too excited at the prospect to entertain your sass, but evidently not too excited to take the pants you were looking at right out of your hands. “You’ll have to try everything on for me. Even though I’m adamantly opposed to anything that covers your legs.” 

You tried to take them back and he casually moved out of reach, adding a blazer to his haul. “Just because I’m built like an elephant seal doesn’t mean I’m actually insulated-”

“Hey-” You jump at the sudden appearance of a sales associate, a beautiful woman with an undercut and dangly earrings, and flush at the reminder that you were in public. She points an empty hanger at you sternly. “We don’t do self deprecation in here.” The hanger tip shifted over to Punz. “Are you not telling her how beautiful she is enough?”

You can feel your face turning purple as Punz claims, "I can't: I need to eat and sleep sometimes," and starts plucking one of everything off the racks without bothering to check sizes. 

"Wha- Punz! Stop that! I don't need-"

"What you need is to let me love you!"

Undercut woman has a giant grin as she turns to walk away. "I'll get a dressing room open for you. Name for the door?"

"I don't need-"

If Punz wasn't trying to smother you in twisted affection, you might've started to get pissed off at the way he interrupted you again. "Bunny!"

"You're gonna get a foot up your ass in a minute here!" 

"She don't bite," he insists, wrapping a thick arm around your neck to yank you against him. He starts pressing fat kisses to your hair, the kind where he just puckers his lips ridiculously and smacks them against you. The first few are gross. The next annoying. Then he starts cooing about she's just a sweet little thing and your attitude crumbles like a wall, entire body melting against him like a stray that's finally caving into affection. 

You can feel his lips curl into a wide grin against your head, but you can't make yourself rebuild that wall when he's nosing your hair away from your ear so he can whisper, "are we done being a brat, baby?" 

“...yeah,”

His finger crooked under your chin, gently lifting your lips to his for a soft kiss. “Yeah? My sweet girl’s gonna let me dress her up?” 

My girl.

You stole another kiss, dropping one on Punz’s jaw as you pulled away for good measure. “At least grab the right size, you big lug.” 

You may as well have promised him a puppy. His grin stretched wide across his face, bottom lip pulled between his teeth before he ducked his head, hiding from you. He nuzzled into your neck, puckering his lips so they just barely grazed your jugular, feeling your pulse race. “Yay,” he murmured, arm around your shoulders sliding down your back until he could grip your soft waist. “Because as hot as you look in this dress, I don’t approve of how the leggings hide away our tummy.”

“You mean my tummy?”

“I’m filing for joint custody. You don’t appreciate her enough.”

“I appreciate her just fine. It- fuck me, now I’m doing it! Give me something to put on!” 

He cackled, tugging your collar aside to check the tag and leaving you to rifle through the racks. “I’m gonna build you some outfits,” he promised, flicking through some camisoles to add to his armful. “And I wanna see every single one.” 

“I thought you wanted to make it to dinner at some point.” 

He found one in your size and handed you the completed stack. “Then you’d better run that cute ass into a stall for me. Ooh, swimsuit sale!” 

You huffed and rolled your eyes all the way to the back of the store and all the way into the dressing room until the door was shut behind you. You only allowed yourself the time it took to strip and redress to think about how warm you felt inside. How nice it felt to have someone who wanted to drape you in silks and pouted when you made him settle for overpriced plus-size fashion. Someone who was ready to watch you try on one of everything, knowing full well how long it’d take.

You settled the blazer over your shoulders and turned to the mirror, lips pressing together.

By no means were you ashamed of your body… but you leaned more towards ‘screw the world I don’t owe it to you to fit your beauty standards’ and less towards ‘I’m fat and fuckable.’ 

The flared pants sat just too low to tuck away your muffin top. No matter how you tugged on the camisole, it couldn’t cover that inch of skin- unless you wanted to walk around with your bra out.

“Shoppin’ for my baby!” Your gaze snapped to the door, hearing the rhythmic shuffle of feet. “Shoppin’ for my bunny!” You slapped a hand over your mouth to keep from laughing- if he heard you, he might stop singing. “Shop ‘til you drop! Bop-bop-bop! Gonna get a crop- top! Yeah, I could’a been a rapper. Fuckin’ missed my calling.”

“You so did,” you called out, threading the buttons on your blazer as you bumped the door open. “What would your rapper name be?”

“Lil’ Pucky,” he called back without hesitation as he turned. Blood rushed through your ears as his jaw dropped open, eyes cruising up and down your form so intensely you worried you’d forgotten to put clothes on at all. “Hello, bunny.”

“Hi,” you giggled. You gave a twirl and laughed when a swoon of “oh, ass,” passed his lips. “You like?”

“I love.” He groped for your waist, pulling you into his chest until you could feel his heartbeat through your right tit. “I changed my mind: you can wear pants, but only these.”

“Oh, yeah?”

“Yup.”

“These are better than the leggings?”

“Leggings are too tight. Anything that delays me from getting in your guts for more than six seconds is going in the bonfire.” 

Your hand came down on his shoulder and he pretended it hurt, stumbling into one of the plush chairs. “That’s why you wanted to take me shopping! You figure if you buy me enough, you can get rid of everything you don’t like!”

He couldn’t even pretend to feel guilty, a grin wider than a fucking canyon stretching across his face. “It’s gonna be short dresses and tight pants if I have my way.”

“And what makes you think you’ll get your way?”

He held out his hand, a silky two-piece bathing suit with a halter strap top and a skirt layered with frills dangling from his fingers. “Because I found this in your size-” his other hand revealed a mesh shopping bag half full, “and enough panties for Sam to steal as many as he wants.” 

You accepted the swimsuit to try on, but gave an apologetic smile. “I’m very picky about my underwear: I don’t want you to be upset if I don’t wear what you pick out for me, okay?”

“Don’t worry, I’m working off a reference.”

There’s two beats where you process his words before you’re beating him with the swimsuit. “You’re the one who ended up with my panties?!” 

Punz didn’t even move to block your hits, hand coming up to lay over his heart. “I pledge my allegiance every morning, first thing.” 

“Where did you hang them?!”

<3E>

“I can carry something, you know.”

“I’m going to pretend you didn’t say that.” Punz piled the bags all onto one arm as if he took your offer as a personal offense to his strength and very manhood, looping the other around your waist. “Taking a fine lady out and making her carry her own bags- who do you think I am?”

You’re getting used to his dramatics: you barely acknowledge him as a stall catches your eye. “Ooh, boba!”

His arm doesn’t budge around you, but it doesn’t keep you in place like you’ve experienced before. Your path shifts towards the drink shop and his elbow pulls straight for barely a second before he shifts right with you, letting you lead him wherever you desired. “That milky stuff with the gross balls?”

“Yes, but no.” There’s laminated menus on the tables so you pick one up and scan the flavors. “You’re thinking milk tea with tapioca pearls. I get fruity tea with popping pearls.”

“You’re really cute, but I don’t know what you’re saying.”

“I’m gonna blow your mind right now.” You slipped your card out of your purse as you walked up to the counter to make sure Punz knew you were buying this time. “Hi, can I get a large strawberry fruit tea with green apple pearls?” 

He barely gets out the total and asks for a name for the order before Punz slaps his card on the machine from the side. "'Punz': exactly how it sounds, but with a 'Z'."

"I was gonna pay for it, asshole!" The only response you get from him is his signature on the pad- which is nothing more than a colon and a 'P'. You stuck your tongue out right back, skipping out of reach to snatch up a straw from the pick-up counter. "You're gonna let your guard down sooner or later." 

"You make it sound like you're gonna kill me." You drag the straw across your throat. "Wow," he snorted, pecking the tip of your nose, "total savage." 

“I know. I’m totawy scawy.”

“Fwightening.” 

“You’re a dork,” you informed him with a huff of laughter, stabbing your drink as soon as it arrived. “Poison check,” you claimed, taking the first sip. You skewered a pearl for him before handing it over. “Alright, taste that thang.” 

You waited eagerly as the straw passed his soft lips, on the edge of your nonexistent seat as he took his first sip.

He shrugged. “Yeah, it’s alright.”

You rescued your drink before smacking his arm. “No taste!” 

“It’s about as good as fruit can get, but it still tastes like fruit. Give me a burger any day.” 

“I’ve never met such a dumb man,” you huffed, sipping for yourself.… Okay, so it had too much ice, but it was still delicious!

“Liar,” Punz accused as you started your walk again. “You’ve met Sapnap.”

You bumped into him with purpose. “Yeah, but it’s cute on him.”

“Ouch, you’re really wounding my pride there, bunny,” he drawled, making sure his sarcasm seeped through every word. “As if I could be jealous of Sappy.” 

You could feel your lips curling into an evil grin around your fat straw before the thought of what to say even formed. “I don’t know: he’s cute, and strong, and a gentleman, and he’s great with his tongue-”

“Alright, you’re pushing it!” A cry left your lips as he snatched your cheek, pinching only hard enough to pull it around a bit. “Talking about another freaking guy this much, even if he is my teammate-” 

“Leggo uh meee!”

He gave another yank before releasing you with a huff. “Such a little brat…”

His tone changed. It was slight, but there was a definite change- enough to make you stop and backtrack. Did you push too far? Was he actually insecure and being compared to Sapnap was a jab in the gut? Or maybe he was just getting sick of your attitude when he was treating you like a princess. 

“I’m sorry.” Punz let out a small noise from the back of his throat that you took as prompting to continue. “I don’t know why I even said that, but I’ll try not to be such a- such a brat.”

“It’s okay,”

“It’s not-”

“Why are you upset?” He turned to look at you properly, pulling you to a stop once he saw your expression. 

You huffed, frustrated that you had to say it out loud, but more frustrated at yourself. “Because you’re wonderful to me-” His hand came up to your cheek, warm and soft, and suddenly your eyes were clouding up. “And you don’t deserve all the snapping I do-” There’s a lump growing in your throat. “And I don’t even know why I say that kind of shit because I’m having a great time with you-”

“Oh, honey bunny.” You caught a glimpse of his handsome face twisted into concern before he was pulling you into a nook for some semblance of privacy, setting your bags on the floor before hauling you tight against his chest. “Oh, you’ve really worked yourself up over this, huh?” You know it’s not really a question, but you find you’re nodding into his shoulder anyway. You don’t even feel like you’re crying: there are tears streaming out of your eyes, but that’s it. Almost like someone’s left the faucet on and forgot about it. 

Punz’s lips press firmly against your head, hands rubbing circles against the tense muscles in your back, like he was trying to find the button that would make it all better. “Can I tell you something, bunny?” His lips briefly twitch into a tiny smile when you nod mindlessly against his shirt. “I know you’re having a good time. And I am, too. And I know you just like chatting shit. Makes you feel strong, huh? Like you’re big and in charge?” You didn’t even realize it before he put it into words, but he was exactly right, earning another nod. “And you wanna know something else?

“I like chatting shit, too.” You pull back as you realize the tears have stopped, and he only lets you go a few inches before he’s holding you still with warm hands on your waist. “The boys told me all about your drive before our movie night. You know how Sammy threw his little tantrum over your seatbelt?” His choice of words pulls a throaty laugh from you that makes him grin. “We all want different things when we’re with you, bunny. Sam wants to make sure you’re taken care of, so when you brat, he’s gonna nod and take it until you run out of steam and ask him nicely, then he’ll give you anything you want.

“But I kinda like to fight, bunny. Nothing mean, but when you poke me, I wanna poke back. I think it’s fun just like you do, and I think we could have a good time pushing each other to the limit to see who gives.” His lips twitched. “Now, Sappy: I think that boy just wants to die under a big woman, so you gotta watch out for him, make sure he’s still breathing when you sit on him-” 

You try to smother your laughter because this is serious, but then you’re imagining a headline that says, ‘Local Man Attempts Suicide By Pussy,’ and you break into manic giggles that send you right back into Punz’s chest as he laughs with you. His hand rubbed up and down your back, slow and soft, melting your form against his. 

You turned your head once the giggles calmed down, taking a deep breath of his cologne while you listened to his heart. “I still feel bad,” you admitted. “Like I pushed too far.”

“I promise you didn’t, baby.” The speed of his answer makes you melt just a bit more. “I get being worried about it, though, because I do, too…” He hummed as he thought. “Sappy said you guys decided on a safe word?”

You nodded against him. “Pineapple,”

“Pineapple. Okay, so how about we both promise that if the other crosses a line, we say ‘pineapple.’ Then we know it’s an actual ‘no’ and not just more playing. How’s that sound?” You give another nod that he returns with a squeeze. “You want me to take you home, baby?” You’re shaking your head without a second thought, pressing yourself deeper against him. You get another squeeze in response, a silent, ‘I won’t leave you.’ “You wanna get some dinner?”

You forced yourself to pull away, his fingertips trailing over your body as long as they can until they hook onto yours. You beamed at him. “That sounds really nice, old man.”

Punz laughed. “Let’s go, then, brat.”

[maybeimamuppet]

the melted clock

BOO IM POSTING ON A TUESDAY INSTEAD OF A WEDNESDAY BE AFRAID BE VERY AFRAID

lol but in all seriousness happy halloween!! welcome to the halloween chapter ooooooh spooky

tw fooooor

mentioned suicide

and as always if i missed something please let me know so i can add it in :)

enhoy!

----------

Cady sighs as she walks into the art classroom on the first day of school. She’s never really been one for art, but she needs the credits to graduate. 

She’s not quite the first one there, but she’s close to it. Two boys are set up on easels side by side towards the middle of the classroom, and a tall girl with thick, dark hair hides behind her own in the very back row. Cady picks one as close to the front as she can stand to be so she has the easiest view of what the teacher does. 

Her classmates trickle in, some by themselves, and others with a friend or two. Everyone picks an easel and takes their seats on the stools behind them. Their teacher comes in and passes out their (cheap watercolor, to start with) paints, and they get started. 

————-

The first week or so goes okay. It’s mostly about things like lighting and color theory and stuff Cady just has to take in and not act on. 

Then they get their first assignment. And Cady quickly realizes she has absolutely no idea what she’s doing. 

It’s a beginners painting class, so she’s positive that she could turn in the worst thing the teacher had ever seen and still get a decent grade, but it’s not worth the risk to her GPA to turn in anything less than B+ worthy. 

She goes to the teacher after class and gets some helpful pointers. She’s also told the room is open after school if she ever wants to come spend some extra time working on projects. 

Cady takes her up on it almost immediately. 

—————

The room is empty when she walks in, so she gathers her supplies and picks an easel. She’s not stuck with the front of the classroom since the teacher isn’t there and there’s nothing she needs to learn or focus on. 

She settles for the one furthest in the back, by the huge windows. 

She’s just clipped her painting to it to resume working on it when her the hair on her neck starts to stand on end. Is someone looking at me? 

Cady looks out the window she’s next to to see. Nobody’s there, and the windows are tinted on the outside. Unless they were pressed right against the glass, nobody could see in anyway. 

Must just be my imagination. 

Or not. 

Cady jumps as she turns back the other way and sees the girl she saw on the first day standing, staring at her. “Jesus!”

Somehow, she materialized next to Cady in almost complete silence, in spite of being about five inches taller than her and clearly weighing a bit more. She’s certainly not small, by any means, and her clunky boots look like they’d be hard to keep quiet. 

“Sorry.” is her only greeting. 

“No, it’s okay, sorry for screaming at you,” Cady says with a giggle. “Do you need something?” 

“…No. It’s fine,” the girl says softly. 

“Are you sure? You were kinda… staring,” Cady stutters awkwardly. 

“I’m sure. You’re just… in my spot.”

“Oh!” Cady says. “I’m sorry, I didn’t know.”

“That’s why it’s fine,” the girl says. “Don’t worry about it.” 

“I’ll move, you can have it back-”

“No,” the girl interrupts. “For today. You… you have it. I can work somewhere else.” 

She quietly shuffles to one a few rows away and starts setting up her things. Cady watches her for a moment before she speaks up. “…I’m Cady.” 

The girl startles, as if she had forgotten Cady was there. She looks at her. 

“I’m a junior. I just moved here this year. What about you?” Cady continues. 

“I-I’m Janis. I’m a junior too,” the girl says. With that, she’s back to her work, picking up a brush and getting down to it. Cady tilts her head at the girl for a moment before she decides to do the same, and they work together in comfortable, if slightly awkward, silence.

—————

Cady sticks around every day after school that week. Her project could use the work, anyway, and the art room is a surprisingly comforting place to spend an afternoon. The smell of paint and turpentine, the old wood of the easels that have been painted on again and again for generations. The rickety metal stools and the autumn breeze blowing outside the window.

And Janis.

She’s always there. Sometimes they talk, sometimes they don’t. But she’s always, always, there. 

“You… really seem to like it in here,” Cady offers as a greeting one day. Janis looks up at her from her easel.

“Yeah. Is that a problem?” she replies. 

“No! No, of course not,” Cady says hastily. “I can’t say I blame you, honestly. It’s cozy in here.” 

“It is,” Janis agrees. Once again, she returns to her work. Cady frowns at her for a moment before she picks up her own brush and tries desperately to turn the blob of green she’s got into distinguished blades of grass.

—————

Time flies by, and before Cady’s totally aware of it, it’s almost time for Thanksgiving break. It’s getting cold outside, so she’s even more thankful than she usually is to have an excuse to linger inside the heated building. 

She’s done pretty well, so far. The worst grade she’s gotten on a project was a C+, which is far higher than she was expecting. The wonders of art class, I guess. She has two projects left before the end of the semester, so two more chances to boost her grade as much as she can. Unfortunately, they’re also the hardest ones yet. 

The one she’s stuck desperately trying to get right on the last day before break has to do with anatomy. They were told they could paint any living animal, but the animal had to clearly be in some sort of motion. 

Cady, naturally, decided to work off a photo she had of one of her lions leaping across the savanna. But somehow, with her skills, it just looks like a half-dead blob of orange that has something vaguely resembling four legs and a face. 

She’s grumbling to herself so much she barely hears the, “Could you quiet down a little?” 

Cady jumps. “Oh! Sorry.” 

“It’s fine,” Janis says. 

She’s working in front of Cady today, so Cady gets to peek and see what she’s doing. She can barely hold back a gasp at what she sees. “Whoa, Janis, that’s amazing!” 

“Huh?” Janis says. She follows Cady’s eyes. “Oh. Thanks.”

Janis has painted a fox. Its black, beady eyes seem to look directly out of the canvas and at Cady. Janis painted it so that it looks like it’s about to leap off the canvas and run amok in the world. Footprints are left in the snow behind it, it kicks up little flurries, its tail is swishing as it tracks the viewer, and Cady finds herself half believing it really will leap out and into her arms. 

“Wow,” Cady repeats. Janis blushes. 

“What… are you painting?” she asks. 

“Oh, uh… it’s meant to be a lion, but I’m not doing so well,” Cady says, rubbing the back of her neck, hot with humiliation. She can’t speak up in time to stop Janis coming around to see her painting. Janis bites her lip so she doesn’t laugh. 

“It’s not bad,” she says, a bit choked around the giggle stuck in her throat. 

“Yes it is, you can say it,” Cady grumbles. 

Janis chuckles. “It really isn’t. This is a beginners class, after all. You have the right idea.” 

“I do?” 

Janis nods. “It’ll help if you add some shadows and highlights. You can paint as big of an action scene as you want, but if it’s just flat colors, it still won’t look like much.” 

Cady tilts her head and looks at her painting. She considers this point, and nods. “I’ll try that. Thanks, Janis.”

Janis just nods and heads back to her own workstation. Cady picks up her brush, adds a bit of brown to her orange paint, and tries adding some shadows to her lion. 

She and Janis exchange the occasional word, but for the most part, it’s another slow, easy silence shared between them. 

—-

Cady packs up her stuff when she thinks it’s as good as she can get it. To her surprise, Janis is still there. Most of the time she’s slipped out the door so quietly Cady doesn’t even notice, let alone get a chance to wish her a good evening or say she’ll see her tomorrow. 

“Happy Thanksgiving, Janis,” she says as she ducks out the door. 

Janis looks up at her, and a hint of a smile graces her lips. “You too, Cady.”

—————

To Cady’s surprise, there’s more people in the art classroom after school when she returns to work on their latest assignment after the break. Cady guesses the last project of the semester is probably important to a lot more of her classmates than the rest of them have been. 

There’s a bunch of kids crowded around the easels in the front, talking loudly amongst themselves. But in the back, all alone, Cady can spy the slightest hint of that half-blonde hair she’s gotten so used to. 

“Hey, Janis,” Cady greets brightly. Janis startles. 

“Cady. Hi,” she responds. 

“Why are you working back here all by yourself? You should go join the rest of that group,” Cady says. “I’m sure you could teach them a thing or two.” 

“I’m fine back here,” Janis says immediately, like she didn’t even have to think about the words before they were out of her mouth. She hesitates, looks away, before she adds, “They’d just ignore me anyway. Whether I go near them or not.” 

Cady frowns. “Janis,” she says sadly. “I didn’t know you were being bullied like that. You should tell someone.” 

Janis looks at her for a long moment. Almost like she’s considering something. “I’m- it’s… it’s okay, Cady, really. I like being alone. Kinda beats hanging out with a bunch of high school schmoes anyway.” 

“If you say so,” Cady says. Should she tell someone anyway? Best not to, she thinks. Janis would if she was worried about it, right? If she likes being alone I shouldn’t force her to be overly social. “I’ll just work with you then.” 

Janis looks away from her as Cady sets up her paints on the easel next to her. Cady looks at her, and sees that soft smile on her face again. She smiles to herself and gets to work.  

—————

The last day before winter break rolls around near the middle of December. It’s a slow day. All assignments are turned in, and the students are free to wander around the school as they like. They’re playing holiday movies in the gym, selling various snacks in the cafeteria, and the elementary school students are visiting to put on a holiday musical in the auditorium. 

Cady doesn’t really have many friends to spend the day with. She has classmates she’s friendly with, but for the most part, she’s kind of a loner. Just like another girl she’s gotten to know quite well. And she thinks she knows just where she’ll be, too. 

She stops by the cafeteria to buy a couple of candy canes before she heads to the art classroom. The old familiar smell of paint welcomes her when she opens the door. And sure enough, right in the back, is Janis. 

“Hey Janis,” she greets. She can see some dark hair pop up over the easel as Janis jumps, before the whole head pops out next to it. 

“Hey,” Janis responds. “What’s up?” 

“I knew you’d be in here,” Cady says with a smile, sitting on the counter next to where Janis is working. “I got you something.” 

Janis looks at her in confusion. “Me?”

Cady nods. “Here.”

Janis takes the candy cane and stares at it like she’s never seen one before. “Man. Christmas already?” 

“I know, right?” Cady giggles. “You… don’t have anyone you want to spend the last day with?” 

Janis is quiet before she shakes her head, unwrapping the long end of the candy cane before she pops it into her mouth to suck on. “Not really. I like it in here.” 

“I can tell. It’s almost like you live here,” Cady teases with a giggle as she opens her own candy cane. 

“Would it be a bad thing if I did?” Janis responds in complete sincerity. 

“…No, I guess not,” Cady responds quietly. “It’s kinda comforting, I guess. It’s like you’re part of the room. I know you’ll be here.” 

Janis nods quietly. 

A beat passes before Cady continues speaking, trying desperately to keep the conversation going. “It’s my first Christmas here.” 

Janis nods again. “…Where did you move from?”

“Kenya,” Cady responds. “My family moved there when I was three. My parents are research zoologists. Or, they were, I guess. We went there to study migratory patterns of a specific species of lions. Originally. Then my parents kept observing new things and getting grants to study them, so we stayed. But then my mom got a new job working at the zoo in Chicago, so we moved here.” 

“Kenya,” Janis says softly. Cady nods. “That’s cool. That’s why you painted that lion, then.” 

“Yeah! I’m surprised you remembered that,” she says. 

“It was only a month ago.”

“I guess so,” Cady giggles. “Yours was so much better, though. And thanks for the tip about shadows. You must really know art.”

“I know some,” Janis agrees. “I am still in a beginners class, though.”

“I think you should be moved up. I don’t know how Ms. Gray doesn’t see how talented you are,” Cady says. 

“Talent is in the eye of the teacher,” Janis says poetically. 

“I-I guess so,” Cady agrees. She doesn’t know how to continue with the subject, so she changes it. “Hey, they’re showing Christmas movies in the gym, you wanna come check ‘em out with me? We can stop by the cafeteria on the way and get more candy canes. And one of the lunch ladies made cooki-”

“No.”

Cady frowns. Janis looks… angry, almost. Not quite, but that was clearly the wrong thing for Cady to say.

“I… I’m sorry. No, thank you. If you want to go, you go ahead. I’m good here. Promise,” Janis amends. 

“Well… okay. Sorry to try to drag you away,” Cady says. “Bye, Janis. Merry Christmas.”

“Bye, Cady. Merry Christmas,” Janis echoes, watching Cady as she leaves the room. 

Cady thinks to herself as she heads down the hall to the cafeteria and buys a cookie before joining the mob in the gym. Maybe Janis really does live in there. Cady’s never seen her anywhere else. They clearly don’t have any classes together except art, and they must be far apart all day for Cady to never see her in the halls. She must just go there right when she gets to school and right when classes end. Cady can’t say as she blames her. 

—————

It takes Cady a while to get back into the swing of things when they return in January. She’s about to leave to start her walk home when she remembers she left her painting in the art room instead of packing it up to bring with her. 

She runs back through the hallways as they empty out for the day and crashes into the art room. Which easel was it? Ah, that one! 

She frowns when she looks closer and sees someone drew a little smiley face in the corner. It’s cute, but Cady’s glad she’s already been graded on this one. How rude! 

“You shouldn’t leave your paintings lying around for anyone to get into,” a voice says from behind her. Cady gasps and whirls around. 

“Oh! Janis, it’s you,” she says in relief when she sees her friend. 

Janis raises an eyebrow. “Surprised to see me?” 

“Well… yeah, kinda,” Cady admits. Janis tilts her head and looks at her curiously. 

“Why?” 

“I hadn’t thought you’d be in here, still. Basically everyone else has gone home,” Cady says like it’s obvious. Isn’t it obvious? “They’ll lock you in if you’re not careful!”

“Oh no, how awful,” Janis says sarcastically. Cady glares at her, and Janis laughs. “I’m kidding. It’s fine, I just didn’t realize it was so late. Got distracted.”

“Painting?” 

“You know it,” Janis says with a small smirk. Cady’s grown to love that smirk, even if it is infuriating. The little dimple Janis has on her left cheek and not the right one. That mischievous glint that always seems to be present in those chocolate brown eyes of hers. But they always seem to… soften, just a little bit, when she looks right at Cady. Almost like she melts the tiniest little bit. 

“Well, are you done now? You wanna walk home with me?” Cady asks. 

“No,” Janis says immediately. “I-I’m not done. Not yet. You go ahead, don’t worry about me.”

“Are you sure? I don’t want to just leave you here,” Cady says sadly. 

“I’ll still be here tomorrow. You’re not leaving me,” Janis says comfortingly. “Really, Cady, don’t worry. You should go home yourself. It’ll be dark soon.” 

“O-okay. Goodnight, Jay. Be safe getting home,” Cady says. She really doesn’t want to leave, but trying to get Janis to clearly won’t go anywhere. Literally. 

“Goodnight, Cady. You too,” Janis says softly. 

—————

When Cady goes to the art room after school the next week, Janis is there, like always. Cady says hi to her and sets up her easel like she always does. 

To her surprise, Janis joins her. She leans casually against the easel, one ankle crossed over the other, and looks down at Cady. 

“Hi,” Cady greets. “I think this is the first time you’ve ever come over to me.”

“I… I want to talk to you,” Janis says quietly, shuffling her rings around her fingers and looking down at her.

“Oh really? Well, aren’t you little miss surprising today,” Cady giggles. 

“I-I’ll leave you alone, if you’re busy…”

“No! No, I’m not. I’m never too busy for you anyway. Sit, girl, sit,” Cady says. She pats the stool across from her. Janis scoots it a little closer and sits down on it. 

She takes a breath. Another. 

“Janis?” Cady asks in concern. 

“Why did you come talk to me?” Janis asks in one rapid breath. “After… after the first time. When you stole my easel.”

“Hey!”

“Why did you come back?” 

“I… I dunno,” Cady says. “You seemed… kinda lonely. I was too. I thought we could be friends. And then talking to you just got easier and easier.” 

“Nobody’s ever… nobody’s done that,” Janis says quietly. “Until you. Nobody’s talked to me.” 

“All year?! Janis, that’s horrible! I’ll tell Ms. Gray, she’ll-”

“No,” Janis says. “You-you think I’m being bullied, right? I-I thought that too. But I think… I think it’s something else.”

What else could it be? 

“I’m not sure yet. But when you and I spend time together, things… come to me. Come back to me,” Janis says. “Sometimes. Not enough, yet. But I think-”

They’re interrupted by the door to the room opening. Cady jumps and looks up to see their teacher. “Ah, Cady, there you are.”

“Hi, Ms. Gray,” she greets. 

“You’re in here alone?” Ms. Gray questions as she sets her things on her desk. “Anyway, I wanted to see if you wanted any help with the lighting assignment this month.”

“I’m not alone, I was just talking with Jan- oh,” Cady says. She’s gone. She must have ducked out when Cady was distracted by the conversation. “Some extra help would be great, thanks!” 

—————

The beginning of February brings with it an absolutely massive blizzard. 

Unfortunately for Cady, it hits right as she was finishing up her artwork for the day and getting ready to head home. She sighs as she hears the wind rushing outside the window and looks to see the snow fluttering down in a thick sheet. She’s gotten used to the snow in America, but trying to walk home in this would be practically asking to freeze to death. She’ll have to hole up until it stops. 

She settles in by the heater and texts her parents to let them know the situation. They’re both at work, so they can’t come to pick her up, either. She’s well and truly stuck. At least she can use her backpack as a pillow and play some math games on her phone. 

“Hey. You’re still here?” a familiar voice says. 

“Janis! I could say the same to you,” Cady giggles. “I was about to walk home, but, uh…” 

“I think Queen Elsa’s coronation must be upon us,” Janis says with a chuckle. Cady doesn’t understand what she’s saying, but she laughs too. “Can I sit?”

“Of course. It’s warm here,” Cady says, scooting her things over to make room. Janis leans against the wall next to her and looks down at her. 

Questions about their last conversation are practically burning in Cady’s gut, swirling around behind her eyes so quickly she can barely see. But, she doesn’t say anything. She knows now that Janis will talk when she’s ready to. She feels it’s best not to bring something like that up during pleasant conversation.

“What are you doing?” Janis asks, ironically being the one to pose the first question of the day. 

“Oh, I’m playing this game,” Cady says. “It’s like a crossword but with numbers instead. I’ve always liked math.” 

“Ew, you like math?” Janis asks with a positively disgusted face. Cady laughs. 

“Yeah. I’ve actually thought about joining the Mathletes team here,” she admits.

“That’s social suicide,” Janis says warningly, but teasingly. 

“I know, I know. But I think they need it,” Cady says with a chuckle. “And I think it would be kinda fun.” 

“Wouldn’t see you in here much after school if you joined them.”

“I guess not,” Cady agrees sadly. “Maybe I’ll wait ‘til next year. I need all the extra time in here I can get, anyway.” 

“That’s an understatement,” Janis says teasingly.

“Hey! I’m getting better,” Cady pouts. 

“You are,” Janis agrees. “Definitely got shadows down, at least.”

“Thanks to you. I got an A- on that lion, by the way,” Cady says.

“Nice,” Janis says with a nod of approval.

“What did you get for your fox?”

“I-I don’t remember,” Janis says with a furrowed brow. “It was so long ago, anyway. Doesn’t matter. Nice job on the lion, though. Proud of you.”

“Thanks,” Cady says. “But seriously, you can’t have only started painting this year. How long have you been doing art?”

“A few years,” Janis admits. “I started in eighth grade. I kinda fell away from it for a bit, but I picked it back up a little while ago and stuck with it. I like it. Helps me focus.”

“That’s nice,” Cady says quietly. Janis nods.

A beat passes. Janis inhales and says, “I went to art therapy. That’s how I got started.”

“Oh,” Cady says. Janis nods again.

“My best friend outed me at the end of seventh grade. It got so bad my parents pulled me out of school for a while,” Janis continues, pointedly not looking at Cady. “The bullying. I missed eighth grade. Came back as a sophomore.” 

“That’s awful,” Cady says. “I can’t believe someone would do something like that.”

“I couldn’t either,” Janis chuckles sadly. “But she did.”

“Did… did the art therapy help?” Cady asks. Janis looks away.

“A little. But like I said, I didn’t stick with it long enough,” she says quietly. She looks back, suddenly, and seems to brighten. “But what do you think about it? Are you turning to the art side?”

“Definitely not,” Cady laughs. “I’m a math person through and through. But I do really like this class. It’s hard, like, really hard. I don’t understand how it’s so easy for some people to listen to words about art concepts and then just… do it. But I like being determined to get something right. It’s a nice feeling. And it’s really satisfying if I do get it. And it’s nice to… make something, I guess. And be proud of it.”

“That’s what got me hooked too,” Janis says. 

“You should be proud of what you make. I really don’t understand how nobody else sees how talented you are,” Cady says. Janis shrugs. 

“You do.”

“Yeah, but I’m only one person.”

“That’s enough for me.” 

Cady smiles up at her, and they booth scoot the slightest bit closer.

—————

Cady’s done weeks of research leading up to Valentine’s day. She cannot mess this up. 

North Shore does a rose sale leading up to it. Cady buys one and signs the little note next to it, but asks to take it with her instead of having it delivered in class by ‘Cupid’. The student council member running the stall at lunch looks a little disgruntled by the breach in protocol, but lets her take the flower. Cady buys a chocolate chip cookie from the lunch line to pair with it and heads to find Janis.

And find her she does. Alone, like always. In the art room, like always. 

“Janis!” 

“Jesus!” 

“Sorry,” Cady says, blushing furiously. “I got you something!” 

“Y-you did?” Janis asks, like Cady’s accidentally speaking Swahili instead of English again. Cady nods eagerly, proffering the cookie and flower. 

“Here!” 

Janis looks at them for a long moment before she hesitantly takes the offered gifts. “Thank you.” 

“Um… they’re for-for Valentine’s day,” Cady admits shyly. 

“Valentine’s day?” Janis asks. “Right. I forgot it was even February already.” 

Cady wants to agree with her, but there’s absolutely no way she could’ve forgotten about this day, even if she tried. “I-I’ve been doing a lot of research about it. We didn’t really do Valentine’s day in Kenya.”

Janis had been smiling faintly at the single flower she’s holding, but looks up at Cady when she finishes speaking. “Research?”

Cady nods. “I… I read that people give flowers and sweets to… to people they… like.” 

Janis’ eyebrows raise high on her head. “Y-you…”

Cady nods. “I really like you, Janis.” 

Janis smiles faintly at her. “I like you too, Cady. I feel bad, I didn’t get you anything.” 

“No, no, it’s okay,” Cady says. “I don’t expect anything. I just wanted you to know.” 

“Message received,” Janis says with a smile. “Thank you. But… are you sure there’s… no one else you’d rather…”

“I’m sure,” Cady interrupts. “It’s been really nice getting to know you, Janis. Even though you look scary you’ve been… really nice to me. You’re one of the only friends I’ve made since I moved here. And I realized a little bit ago that I’d kind of like to be… more than that.” 

Janis looks at her with a smile, still holding her gifts so, so delicately. “I… I’d really like that. Um, Cady…”

“What is it?” Cady asks gently.

“Could you… meet me here after school? Like… after, after school? When nobody else is here?” Janis asks, with a tone so heavy Cady wouldn’t be surprised if she asks her to kill a man next. 

“Of course. I’ll be here,” Cady says. The bell rings, and they both jump. “Oh! Gotta go. See you later.”

Janis nods, and smiles as Cady goes rushing around to gather her things. “Bye.”

Cady waves and rushes out the door without a second thought.

—————

True to her word, Cady meets Janis in the art room after everyone else has left. She thinks this is technically trespassing at this point, but at least if they get busted she and Janis will go down together. 

“Janis?” 

“Cady.” 

Cady jumps as Janis’ voice rings out through the dark classroom. All the lights have been turned off for the day, so the only light comes from the setting sun outside the large windows. “Hi.”

“Hi,” Janis responds quietly.

“What did you need?” Cady asks gently. Janis nods.

“I want to talk to you,” she says. 

“Oh.”

“Not- you haven’t done anything wrong,” Janis says hastily. “The opposite, if anything. I-I love you.”

“I love you too,” Cady breathes with a smile. “But… what did you want to talk about, then?” 

“Do you remember a few months ago, when we were talking about me being… bullied? Ms. Gray came in to help you,” Janis begins. Cady nods. “I… I’ve remembered a lot, since then. God, where do I even begin?” She sighs. “Hey.”

“Hm?” Cady hums delicately.

“Let’s go outside.”

“What? But every time I try to get you to leave, you-”

“I know. But let’s go now,” Janis says. Cady frowns in confusion, but she pulls the door open. Janis gestures for her to go first, so she does. What is going on? 

Janis props the door open and takes a few steps back. She runs at the open door full tilt…

And bounces off. 

She lands on the hard tile floor with a dull thud and a pained swear. 

“Janis, what?” Cady whispers in disbelief. “If you’re taking up mime, now’s not the time to show me.”

“It’s not an act,” Janis says. 

She punches the open space as hard as she can, but as soon as her knuckles would pass the threshold, they bounce off again. Janis tries and tries, but no part of her body ever manages to make it through the doorframe. Cady can’t believe her eyes. She steps back through the door as easily as ever. 

“Janis,” she whispers. 

“I can’t leave,” Janis says, turning to see her. “I’m stuck.”

“Janis, what-what do you mean?” Cady asks shakily, feeling tears start streaming down her face. 

“I didn’t notice at first. But I’ve always been in here, Cady,” Janis responds. “I wake up here every day. After a while, I fade away, and then wake up again in the same place. I’ve always been here.

“I-I said I had started to learn things, since you started talking to me. Remember things. And I… I remember now,” Janis says. “I think you know too. Why-why nobody else talks to me. Nobody else notices me.”

“They… they can’t see you,” Cady realizes. Janis nods.

“I’ve been alone here for years. Kids would come and go. I noticed… a few weird things, but nothing really stood out. But nobody ever, ever talked to me. I tried to leave, and every time, I just bounced back. I got desperate. Started dancing around the classroom and screaming at the top of my lungs. And nobody noticed. Nobody… nobody could see me.”

She turns to look at Cady with tears streaming down her face. Cady reaches for her. “You-you’ve been here for years?”

Janis nods. “I can’t feel or sense time passing anymore. I’ve seen… at least four Christmases and Valentine’s days go by, in here. I can’t be sure exactly how many, anymore.

“Until you. You came, and you talked to me, like it was the most perfectly normal thing in the world. The first one in years. And you… you wouldn’t leave me alone. As we talked, I started remembering things. Just little… flashes, here and there. I started to put things together. To remember. Remember why I can’t leave.”

She takes a step closer to Cady with a soft sob. Cady echoes it. “You’re a ghost.”

Janis nods again. “I-I killed myself here, Cady. I’m not here. I never-never have been. I’ve been gone for years,” she sobs. “My-my internal clock broke with the rest of me. That’s why-why I don’t recognize time anymore. That’s why I’m stuck. Every day, every single day, just repeated over and over and over until it lost… until it lost any meaning. Until you.” 

Cady gasps quietly as she looks at the beautiful girl before her, and notices she can see the wall behind her, through her. Janis… is fading. Disappearing before her eyes. 

“I’m not being bullied. I’m not being ignored,” Janis continues. “They can’t see me. I’m not here.”

“But-but you are!” Cady begs around a sob. “I can see you! I can talk to you!”

Janis is getting more and more translucent as they keep going. She shakes her head. “No, Cady. I haven’t been here for a long time. Not really. I’m… I’m sorry things had to end this way.”

“End? What do you mean end?” 

“Cady,” Janis says. Cady sobs at how echoey her voice is, how far away she really sounds now. “You… you reminded me. You got me unstuck. I have to go.”

“No, Janis, please!” Cady begs, falling to her knees in tears. Janis crouches down and tips up her chin. She’s so cold. 

“I don’t have a choice, Cady, I’m sorry. But listen. I… I have no regrets. I chose to do what I did, and I chose to do it here. I… I wish I hadn’t, now. I wish we got more time together. I would’ve loved to… to talk with you more. See you learn more about painting. Get to know you. Touch you. If I wasn’t… if I wasn’t like this, I would’ve loved to know you.”

Cady throws her arms around her. She can feel Janis, softly. Her cold arms wrap around her too. 

“I’m not in pain,” Janis whispers. “Because of you. But because of you, my… my clock ticks again. My spirit remembers. I remember. And I have to go.”

“No you don’t,” Cady sobs. “I-I’ll come every day, even on the weekends! I’ll come talk to you! You have to stay! You-you can’t go, Janis, you can’t! Dammit, you can’t leave me! If-if-if I do… if I come enough, you-you might be able to leave, someday! I’ll do it!”

“No, Cady,” Janis says, her voice echoing softly in Cady’s ear. “I’ve… I’ve been making up for lost time, with you, my love. You told me everything that happened this year. Even when I was a bitch and didn’t respond or even say hi, you did. The whole year is already done. My… my spirit got to make up for the time I never got to spend here. And… and Cady, I’m… I’ll never be able to thank you enough for that. But I’ll… my spirit can’t stay here forever. My lost time is fulfilled. I’ll stop soon.”

Janis is talking right next to her, in her ear, but her voice is so soft, so distant, that Cady can barely hear her. 

“Don’t cry,” Janis begs around a sob of her own. “I… I’ll see you again someday.”

“Janis, no!” Cady begs, holding tight to the cold, fading form of her beloved in front of her. “No, wait, please! I-I still… there’s so much… so much to tell you. I don’t want this to be-be the last time.”

“It won’t be,” Janis says, with the burning intensity of the strongest oath. “Please, don’t cry. There’s nobody here to mourn. I’ve been gone for a long time, Cady. You’ve given me more than enough. I’m… I’m okay, Cady.”

“But-”

“Cady. Thank you. I love you.”

And with that, Cady’s arms hit her own chest. The coldness is gone, and Cady collapses to the ground. Nothing is there to hold her up. “Janis?!” 

Nothing. 

Cady frantically pats around on the ground, desperately searching for something she knows deep down… isn’t there. Never was. “No, Janis! Please!”

No one answers her.

—-

She stays there a long time, crying and screaming and cursing the world. But when her tears run dry and her throat is hoarse and scratchy, she picks herself up and wipes her eyes. She grabs her backpack and leaves the building. 

She doesn’t look back. 

She walks to the library. To the newspapers. Janis said she’d seen at least four. Four years… 

She finds her in a newspaper from six years ago. In the obituaries. Her photo is there, the same as the day Cady met her. That bright smile, dyed blonde hair with dark roots. Those beautiful brown eyes that Cady fell in love with in the first place. 

Janis Sarkisian, a local student, was found deceased last Friday afternoon by a janitor at North Shore High School. Sarkisian was a junior at the school and died by suicide in one of the art classrooms. 

She is preceded in death by her father, Luca Sarkisian. She is survived by her mother, Juliette Sarkisian, and her younger sister, Juliana Sarkisian. 

Janis was a bright, funny, rambunctious young girl and a joy to be around. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, the family ask that loved ones donate to the national suicide prevention organization, bullying prevention organization, or the North Shore School District arts department. Her memorial is to be…

Cady traces her face with a finger. She really was gone. The whole time. She was never there. 

She goes home and anonymously donates to the arts department. She leaves a message or just two words. 

For Janis.

—————

Cady doesn’t want it to, but time passes. She almost forgets Janis won’t be there anymore when she walks into art class. 

Eventually, she gets used to it. Kind of. 

She moves on.

She… forgets.

In the spring, there’s a showcase for students in the painting and photography programs to show off their progress through the year to friends and family. Cady dresses up nice, does her hair and a little makeup. She smiles as she reminisces on all the paintings she did. All the work. All the progress she’s made.

She stands next to the little gallery of her works hung up on the wall and accepts compliments and congratulations from some parents, answers questions about them from a few others. 

The hair on her neck stands up as she feels someone… watching her. She turns around.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to stare at you,” the girl says when she notices Cady looking back. “You just… you look really familiar.”

“You do too,” Cady says, tilting her head. She has short, dark hair, cropped to her shoulders. Dark brown, shining eyes. Almost like… but it can’t be. “Do we know each other?”

“I… I don’t know,” the girl says. 

“I’m Cady,” she says quietly. The girl’s eyes widen. 

“I’m… Janis,” she says. Cady feels her own eyes almost pop out of her head.

“You… no you’re not. You can’t be,” Cady says, feeling all the blood drain from her face. “Janis is… she’s…”

“Dead?” Janis asks quietly. Cady nods, biting her lip so she won’t cry. “I thought so too.”

She opens her wallet and pulls out an ID. Sure enough, Janis Sarkisian is written clear as day. The birth date is the same. 

Cady looks closer. Her hair is all brown, now, but… those are Janis’ eyes. Her dimple on the left side but not the other. That smirk. 

“Janis!” she sobs, throwing herself at the girl. “H-how?”

“I’m not sure,” Janis confesses quietly, squeezing her back. 

She’s warm, and solid, holding Cady tightly. She’s… alive. Memories start flooding Cady’s mind, things she and Janis did and said that she had already forgotten. They return so quickly she can barely keep up. 

“Cady,” Janis whispers, and Cady knows the same thing is happening to her. 

“How? How are you… how are you back?” she whispers through a thick, tearful lump in her throat.

“I don’t know,” Janis responds, pulling back to look in her eyes and squeezing Cady’s biceps. “I-I woke up in the art room again. But… different. And… and I left, Cady. I… I couldn’t remember anything since I had died at first, but once I left the room… things came back. I knew I had to find… someone. I’ve been looking for you for so long.”

“So have I,” Cady whispers, cupping Janis’ cheek. She almost can’t believe how real this is. How warm Janis’ face is, how wet the tears streaming down her face feel on her fingertips. 

“I’m here now,” Janis says softly. “To stay.”

“Stay with me,” Cady whispers desperately. She gasps as Janis leans in to kiss her. 

“Always.”

[yourlocalartsonist]

ROTTMNT Moths Fly In Packs - Chapter Three

A/N: HEY IM ALIVE. I am so sorry it’s been two literal weeks I got stuck in a rut and then like couldn’t figure out how to write from there for the life of me 🫠 BUT HEY I figured it out eventually and Ngl I think this chapter turned out pretty fun and cute! It is the first time I wrote Mikey for a long period of time and a little bit of Donnie too so like, apologies for any OOC moments. I’m still learning TvT But yesyes, enjoy the read and thank you for your time <3 Also I’ve decided Mikey and Salena’s duo name is gonna be Pink Tangerine anyway byeeeeeeeee

Next Chapter

Previous Chapter

Chapter One

Disclaimer: Chapter involves light manipulation, light sexual harassment, curse words, and violence. If you’re sensitive to that stuff, scroll past and stay safe <3

The mushy brown grub splat down on my tray.

I stuck out my tongue in disgust. School lunch might honestly be the worst thing known to man, the bar is so low the devil plays limbo with it. Yet somehow this school still puts everywhere else to shame.

I overheard from some of the upperclassmen a while back that the food used to be on par with others, apparently it got worse after they hired a new lunch aid. No one ever told him anything, though. We’re all way too scared of him.

We sat down at a table and I began poking the food with my fork, mentally preparing to stomach it down. Jaiden looked at me with similarly dead eyes from our meal.

“God, this is so gross. I get that this lunch is supposed to be healthy and all but sometimes I’d rather just eat burger grease.”

That was the second reason I never said anything to the lunch aid. As much as I shit on the food, it’s actually healthier than the usual microwaved fries and stuff. I’ve noticed the effects too, ever since I joined Roosevelt High last year my body admittedly felt much less sluggish.

“Well, food is food. Let’s just be grateful it’s even human food at this point.”

They giggled and scoffed. “Yeah, barely.”

Trying to distract myself from how squishy my mouth felt at every bite, I focused on Jaiden instead. They don’t really emote often, they’re the type of person to have a resting-bitch-face 24/7. But of course, one of life’s greatest ironies was blessing Jaiden with one of the heartiest smiles I’ve ever seen.

For a moment their lips curve, their forehead wrinkles, and their tooth gap is on full display. Eyes shut, all their thoughts were too focused on whatever brought them so much glee, completely forgetting to worry about how they looked or were being perceived. I wish they could be like that all the time.

“Hello? You’re staring at me like a creep again.”

“I know, I know. I’ll stop.” I rolled my eyes, knowing they didn’t actually mind.

“You really should smile more often, though. You’re gifted with such a pretty smile but you never show it off, Jay.”

It went quiet. Before I could spend too long worrying if I said the wrong thing, they broke the silence.

“Hey, can I talk to you about something?”

“Is that even a question? You know you can tell me anything.”

“Well yeah but…it’s kinda relationship related.”

Oh dear. I straightened up and focused all my attention on them. I may be ass at understanding romance but by god, I still tried my best to help Jaiden with theirs.

“So…Was he distant again?”

“I mean, yeah technically. But it’s not even just him anymore, I haven’t been the best at reaching out either. I don’t want anyone else to know this so you better keep it a secret.”

I nodded and they continued.

“I guess I just can’t find any reason to catch up with him. He barely talks to me, stopped complimenting me, and I just can’t like him like that when it feels like he doesn’t even remember we’re dating. I haven’t felt happy with him or confident or anything cause he doesn’t! Talk! About! Me!”

“Ah y-yeah, that’s…that’s pretty bad.”

“He knows how I feel about this stuff. I’m worried he’s not into me anymore. I haven’t felt beautiful in so long because of him. I feel invisible Salena.”

I thought back to our old school. Jaiden had a huge crush on one of our classmates and miraculously got asked out by him just a year later. It was quite the celebratory moment, we stayed up for hours gushing about it over the phone that night. That memory still makes me feel warm.

“What are you gonna do now?”

“That’s what I don’t know. I’m not sure what to do or how to take all of this. Nothing really feels the same anymore.” Their face fell back to its usual deadpan stare. “Honestly, I’m wondering if it would be better to just break things off.”

“…Well, whatever happens, I’m here for you.”

We sat in awkward silence. I wish I was better at comforting people. Jaiden isn’t a huge hugger either so I can’t even try that.

“By the way I…I think I’m starting to like someone else, actually.”

Their voice was barely above a whisper. Before I could ask who, a tray slammed down between us.

“Hey, guys - Jaiden move over a bit - what’d I miss?”

“Hey Zane!”

“Hiya Zane.” I gave him a small wave and Jaiden and I made room for him between us.

I started zoning out a bit while Jaiden and Zane caught up with each other. My mind wouldn’t stop thinking about what Jaiden said. That they like someone else. I mean, it’s not a wild idea considering how they and their boyfriend barely count as a couple anymore but still. Last I checked, Jaiden pretty much loathed the kids in our grade and neither of us get crushes that easily so I wonder who actually got their heart all soft.

I jumped from a sudden sharp pain in my legs. Jaiden and Zane’s conversation paused as they redirected their attention to me and my agony.

“Hey dude, are you okay?”

“Yep! I’m fine, just been working my legs a bit too much I suppose!”

Damn it Leo and your stupid persuasiveness.

What he promised would only be a “weekend thing” turned into an “almost every night thing”, leading to my legs cursing me out from how much pain consistent parkour brings them. Worst part is I can’t even blame him entirely, I’m a druggie for dopamine and caved in at the first mention of doing it more often.

“Are you sure you’re alright? Your legs keep hurting lately. Do you need painkillers? Or do you wanna go to the nurse? I can take you there!” Zane reached out and grabbed my hand.

I could feel the hair on my arms rising for the wrong reasons. Panicking, I pulled my hand back and rushed to reassure them both I was perfectly okay. Thankfully, we moved on and Zane started to ramble about some guy in his class annoying him today.

Or at least, he moved on. I was still trying to recover from the contact. I mean, this isn’t the first time he’s held my hand, our friendship was always very physically affectionate. But I just haven’t been able to handle any touch from Zane for a while. I hate that everything feels so different now knowing that he likes me. It’s not like he can control it, why do I have to be so weird about it? A little hand-holding shouldn’t get such a repulsed reaction from me.

I decided to stop my brain’s downwards spiral and calm myself down. I took a quiet breath and joined back in the conversation.

I caught Jaiden glancing at his hand. They were quieter than usual after that.

***

I walked out the building as the school day ended, the afternoon sun lit up the schoolyard. The weather was getting pleasantly warmer as spring truly settled in.

Zane walked beside me with a lollipop in his mouth as we both waited for Jaiden. The two of them have an elective today but Jaiden had to run a quick question by the teacher and told me to keep Zane company for the time being. I had my own plans but it’s no biggie, all electives start ten minutes after school ends so we’ve got time. I already let Mikey know I’d be running a little late.

“I know I’m not Mr. Sunshine or anything, but I’d be lying if I said it isn’t gorgeous out today.”

“Hm? Oh, yeah, it really is!”

“...You’re still thinking about Jaiden aren’t you?”

“Y-yeah sorry.”

I could tell Zane was getting a bit irritated. My attention hadn’t really been on him much today, I just couldn’t shake the feeling something was wrong with Jaiden. I know they don’t really talk much but they got abnormally quiet after lunch even for them.

“I told you they’re fine Salena. I even checked in twice for your sake.”

“I know it’s just… Nevermind, you know me, I get paranoid easily.” That’s only half true. I’m paranoid but I’m not stupid.

“Hey actually, I was wondering.” He leaned closer and started playing with a loose strand of my hair, prompting me to lean away “Jaiden seemed really tired today so maybe they’d wanna go home early and rest. Do you want to-“

“I’m here.”

They stared at us with a frown on their face. Their voice was monotone. It was always monotone but usually it’d have a bit of charm mixed in with the whole dead-inside vibe. Something wasn’t right.

But no matter! They’re both here now and I should honestly get going. Zane’s here with them so I can worry about Jaiden tomorrow.

“Great! Seeing as you two are ready to go, I shall take my leave as well. Bye guys!”

“But-“

They cut him off. “Bye Salena.”

I don’t know what I did but something definitely happened with Jaiden.

Even though I didn’t manage to fully suppress my thoughts, the walk to the alley where we agreed to meet drifted my attention back towards the beautiful sunny day. The sky was cloudless, a soft spring breeze. For once the air wasn’t clouded with the stinging scent of garbage and car smoke and instead smelled fresh. Woodsy even. Don’t really get a day this perfect often here. It must’ve been fate for today to be the day I’m actually spending time with one of the guys.

Thanks to Leo’s reassurance that night, I gained some confidence and took his advice on talking with them more often. Mikey was definitely the most receptive to that. He and I bonded pretty quickly due to us being the same age and having a similar (and superior) artistic taste so obviously I had to say yes when he asked to hang out, even if it took a while for our schedules to line up.

I did one last scan to make sure no one was around before texting Mikey of my arrival. He popped out from behind a dumpster, eyes matching the bright blue sky.

“Hey hey hey! Ready for the world’s most epic hang out ever?”

“Hell yes I am! I’ve been waiting for this all week! But uh, you’re 100% sure being out in public during the day won’t be a problem considering…this whole situation?”

“We’re fine, chill. No one will recognize me with my super amazing Raph-approved disguise on!”

…His disguise was a hoodie and pants.

I mean, I guess it is New York so no one will probably care enough to notice. Or care even after they do notice. I think I’m just a little nervous since it’s my first time out in public with him.

Besides, his fit was on fire! He wore a cropped orange hoodie with white accents matched with baggy, light cargo pants. He actually looked a little taller from the pairing, maybe I should take fashion tips from him. He did remind me a little of those orange-and-creme popsicle sticks though.

I heard thumping in the distance and cocked my head to hear better.

Clomp, clomp, clomp.

Footsteps? Loud, heavy ones. They remind me of…

“Mikey, you have to hide! S-someone’s coming!”

“But I’m disgui-”

“Trust me just go!”

As he jumped back behind the dumpster, Zane came around the corner and found me leaning against the wall pretending to be on my phone. I mentally high-fived myself for the spot-on guess.

“There you are.”

“Hey! Did you need something?”

“Oh, no. Or well, yeah actually but first, what are you doing next to a garbage bin?”

“I’m waiting for my friend. We have plans today.”

“W-what?” His brows furrowed, pained eyes pierced mine “Plans? With who? Jaiden isn’t even free today.”

“I have other friends too, Zane.”

He scoffed and shoved his hands down his pockets.

“Like, who? Druggies?” …Homie what the hell?

“What kind of people are you friends with that have you meet up with them here?”

“Uh, why are you getting so mad anyway? I’m just meeting up with someone.”

“Well, I don’t want that someone to be dangerous! I’m just looking out for you.” He sighed. “And also because I was gonna ask if you wanted to hang out with me today.”

Confused, I stared back at him. “But you and Jaiden have an elective today? The one I just left you two at?”

“Yeah and I told Jaiden I was gonna skip. It’s a nice day, I wanted to be with you. Looks like I did all that for nothing.” Another sigh.

“Oh. I-I’m sorry, I didn’t know- Wait, hold on, you left Jaiden?” Oh god. I subconsciously started biting my nails. “Zane, they were already visibly upset today! They need someone with them!”

Stomping my feet, I tried searching for a solution. I couldn’t just cancel on Mikey, we’ve had this planned for so long! But I can’t leave Jaiden on their own either. They have certain tendencies and I can’t risk that again. Ugh, everything would’ve been okay if at least Zane was with them!

“Zane, you have to go back. Jaiden needs company and I’m busy today anyway.”

“Don’t panic so much, they said they’d be fine.”

“And you believed that? You know they’ve lied about that before. Several times before! They didn’t seem okay, I need you to be them.”

“But I want to be with you. Not Jaiden, you. You can’t expect me to just control these things, Salena.”

This dude! Why is he being so difficult?

Okay, calm down Salena. Not a time for anger.

“I-I know, but it’s just one day. Jaiden’s your friend, too. And besides, you’ll both have fun this way!”

My attempts to shoo him away changed his angered face. He suddenly looked so disheartened I can’t tell if it was better or worse. I’m a little annoyed he left Jaiden on their own but he must’ve planned this out for a while if he seems this disappointed. I guess I’d be upset too if I was in his shoes. Though I also would’ve asked the other person ahead of time but different people, different mindsets I suppose. I softened my tone.

“Hey, Zane? I promise we’ll hang out tomorrow. I’ll make it up to you. And we can even call when I’m done, okay? But right now Jaiden needs you. And I need this. Just…can I please have a few hours away today?”

He looked at me, conflicting eyes switching between both of mine. Third sigh, more whispery than the others “...Fine, you know I can’t say no to you. I’ll see you tomorrow.” He pat my head, slightly ruffling my hair “Don’t forget to call me when you’re free.”

Hearing the heavy steps fade as he got farther and farther away, I let out the biggest exhale of my life as my body slumped over.

“Ooh mama, that was rough.” Mikey, somehow already next to me, matched my relief. “Does he always act like that?”

“Well, ‘always’ is a strong word…”

“And you’ve never told him how you feel about it? Never, you know, put down boundaries?”

My eyes scampered around to focus on anything but his face while my body shrunk. Guilty as charged.

He sighed and whipped out a pair of round glasses, swinging his arm over my shoulder “So, I know Dr. Feelings is supposed to be on vacation for the day, but since you’re a friend you get special privileges!”

“Um…D-Doctor who?”

“Tell me about this guy, Salena.”

After recovering from the reveal of his secret therapist mode, I told Mikey about Zane and our friendship as we made our way to an ice cream parlor. According to him, talking about your feelings is always better with a sweet treat to distract you from your crushing crippling depression.

“Wait wait, before we start, what flavor?”

“Oh, chocolate obviously.”

His eyes lit up as he happily hummed “A person of culture! Begin~” He handed me a chocolate cone and got the same for himself.

I felt a little guilty for using him on a day we were meant to relax but at the same time, the thought of having someone to talk to about my weird dynamic with Zane made it weirdly hard to resist. Plus, Mikey just has a very calming presence to him, one that makes it so easy to open up and word-vomit your entire life story to.

Still, I tried my best to not overshare and disrespect Zane’s privacy so I kept things brief and broad, only mentioning what I felt was note-worthy. And probably better to keep his crush on me hidden for now, at least.

Instead, I briefed him about Zane’s home life being the classic “rich kid with absent and narcissistic parents” trope and how much his older brother, or better known as the golden child, emotionally abused him growing up. I could sense Mikey softened a bit at that.

I mentioned Zane’s anger issues, habitual bullying, fear of abandonment. His slowly-developed kleptomania. I told him about the people Zane hung out with and of my secret disapproval of them. If Zane seems bad, those guys make him seem heavenly.

And lastly, I talked about our unlikely friendship. How he gradually became nicer to me. How he told me how different I was to him the day I asked why he stopped bullying me. How unexpectedly sweet and protective he can be.

And how scared he’d get sometimes that one day I’d just ditch him like everyone else did.

“That’s awful! It must’ve been hard for him dealing with all of that.”

“It was. That’s why he’s so clingy towards me. He feels like no one understands him the way I do or even wants to try.”

“I’m guessing that’s why you deal with it.”

I quietly nodded. “I know he can be a bit much sometimes. But I don’t ever want to leave him. He’s like family to me, it just wouldn't be right if I abandoned him.”

Mikey smiled at me “Yeah, don’t worry, I get that.”

He took another bite of his cone and stared out the window. He looked strangely timid, I’ve never seen Mikey so mild-mannered before.

“Do you remember when I told you about our dad Draxum?”

“Oh yeah, the sheep guy! You mentioned he had a ‘bad boy’ phase. Heh, ba-a-a-a-a-ad.” I giggled to myself mimicking a sheep as Mikey looked at me with horrific disgust.

“Leo must love you, doesn’t he.”

“Oh hush, it was funny. Anyway, you were saying?~”

“Well during his ‘insert ruined joke here’ phase, Draxum used to try to kill us like at least once a week. He went on and on about wanting to ‘destroy humanity’ and ‘protect Yōkai kind’ and we were made to do that.”

We started walking outside as he continued his story.

“But, my brothers and I could never. We love humans, I mean you guys literally invented art! And even though Draxum made us, he wasn’t attached enough to not brutally murder us for that disagreement. He threw Leo off a roof once, too.”

“Sorry, what now?” It’s making sense now why Leo was so careful about me not falling when we hang out.

“Yeah, I felt so bad! I mean, Raph gets to see something as cool as that happen but I’m stuck being used as a tug-of-war rope for a giant spider lady! The universe can be so unfair…”

“Your priorities are confusing but go on.”

We made our way on to a roof to enjoy the city’s view. Mikey went on a tangent about all their adventures stopping Draxum and the poorly-named Foot Clan from assembling this mythical shredding monster guy. Whoever named these guys needs originality lessons.

“Then after they finished making the Shredder, they betrayed Draxum. They only wanted to use him so the armor thing would work. And I know that we’re supposed to hate him and stuff, but I felt really really bad for him.”

I thought back to how I felt every time someone I thought was a friend ended up stabbing me in the back “Honestly, I would too. Villain or not, betrayal still sucks.”

“Exactly! And to make matters worse, I found him living on the streets later! He’s a wanted criminal in the Hidden City and had nowhere to go in New York. So obviously, I set him up with a nice, top tier home and helped him adjust to humanity. My brothers doubted us a lot but he’s doing great now. He even has his own job as a lunch aid!”

His bubbly smile dropped as he looked off to the distance. Up until now, Mikey’s been pretty animated when he talks, using his hands and sometimes whole body to enhance his speech. Right now though, he was still. Very still.

“But back then, sometimes even I thought I was crazy. I was trying to change a guy who’s fear-response was genocide, that’s not an easy thing to do. So many failed attempts at getting him to like humans, so many failed attempts of him trying to throw kids when they got on his nerves. Don’t get me wrong, it’s more than worth it in the end but when you’re actually doing it? It’s so exhausting.”

Exhausting. I never realized how fitting that word sounded until he said it. Exhausting.

“That sounds like a literal nightmare. Especially without any external support…” Oh god this was hitting too close to home. Abort! Abort!

“Wanna know what kept me going?”

“Yeah?”

He turned towards me. His blue eyes were illuminated by the sun. Actually, there were some new spots on his body that were glowing, too?

“Draxum made us. He was family to me. It wouldn’t be right to just abandon him.”

Oh.

He turned back to look at the sky. “I know you care about Zane and I can empathize with that so I’ll say this as nicely as I can… ZANE IS A WHINY PIECE OF SHIT.”

I forgot how loud Mikey screams oh god.

“He’s clingy, he’s rude, he called me a druggie for choosing to meet up in an alley, I mean what’s wrong with either?!”

“Micheal my ears, please.”

He took a deep breath and by the grace of heaven itself he calmed down.

“Look, I don’t know if you can help Zane the same way I helped Draxum. Some people don’t want to be changed, that was my biggest fear with Drax. But that’s not my point.” He put a soft hand on my shoulder, the tone of his voice sounded different. “What I’m saying is, I get it.”

My throat felt itchy. I hadn’t heard words like that in years. Having someone say they understand me, not being judged or getting weird looks for feeling the way I do. And I can’t even help believing him, after everything he’s told me it sounds like he meant it. I don’t really know how I feel right now. But then again, maybe I don’t have to know.

We stayed in comfortable silence listening to the city below.

There weren’t too many people out right now, everyone who had been outside enjoying the nice weather before were returning home from shopping or leaving cafés. Not many cars on the street, either. All in all, a nice and peaceful day.

Until, of course, it wasn’t.

A giant pink food truck with a weird stake on the top raced by definitively over the speed limit. Another large vehicle following it. It was green with a disk on the back, it kinda looked like a shell? Or maybe I’ve been talking with turtles too often-

“The Turtle Tank?”

“YOU GUYS HAVE A TURTLE TANK?!” Oh my stars! They just keep getting cooler every day I see them!

“And Meatsweat’s truck!”

“Oh, it’s Mr. Oinkerton.”

In the distance we could hear a familiar angry voice screaming vulgar words at the pig mobile through an oversized megaphone. How’d Donnie even get in this situation?

“So like…should we check in on him?”

“Nah, Dee’s probably fine.”

“Okay fair, but he’s partaking in chaotic activities without us.”

“...You know what, I like the way you think! Come on!” He rolled up his sleeve revealing a black band on his wrist and excitedly spoke to it as we both started running to catch up with the trucks.

“Hey Dontron! Why’re you on a chase with Meatsweats?”

“Mikey? You can see me? Are you in proximity?”

“Yeah! We can see you from the rooftops. I’ll wave!”

“Ugh, good I could use the help, Meatsweats upgraded his stupid truck so now it’s too fast to keep up with! Listen, he kidnapped some guy off the street and I don’t know what he’s gonna do so if you could assist-”

“On it, Dee!”

Seeing Mikey speed through the roofs was astounding! He bounced from building to building, doing flips and spins whenever he could. He looked so graceful while doing it, too. Kind of reminds me of ballerinas. Compared to him I was a heaving mess in the back. I’m faster than I was before, that’s for sure, but still had a really hard time keeping up with him. I’m starting to think Leo went easy on me…

But compared to the car chase down below, even Mikey could barely keep up.

“Man, Donnie wasn’t kidding when he said the truck got upgrades. Meatsweats was never this fast before.”

“Mikey, how long are we just gonna tail them? We’re not really getting anywhere like this.”

“Well we can’t run fast enough…” he looked at Meatsweat’s trying to fight Donnie off, leaving the back door to his truck wide open. His eyes lit up “But we can fly fast enough! I’ll swing you!”

Donnie’s voice returned to the comms “Mikey where are you? Could really use that help right now!” Meatsweats was starting to close the door.

Seeing this in my excited adrenalined nature, I rushed to approve the plan. “Okay, let’s do it!”

One of his nunchucks wrapped around me and my legs left the ground. I cut through the air getting flung right into the truck, somehow not breaking any bones after crashing in. Probably should have thought about that before.

I looked out and met Donnie’s panicked glare. “SALENA?!”

“Hi Donnie!” The door shut and my attention turned toward Meatsweats and a terrified boy with a bag covering his head in the corner.

“Who the hell are- oi, you’re the annoying lass from before, aren’t you?” Oh damn, he remembers me. “What’s with you and ruining my dinner plans?”

“Wait, dinner plans? You’re gonna eat him!?”

He looked so unbelievably offended at that, because of course it was such a stretch to come to that conclusion “What are you, stupid? I was a human before getting mutated. I was a world renowned chef, Rupert Swaggart!”

“Your name was Rupert? Ew.”

“SOMEONE PLEASE HELP ME!” Oh right, this is a hostage situation.

“Sorry, sorry, distractions. So what you’re saying is, you’re not gonna eat him?”

“No, of course not, human meat is an atrocious flavor.” That’s a relief! “However, they make a lovely meal for mutant livestock. And now I can feed twice the amount.” Oh.

He charged at me with his enormous tenderizer and I quickly got up and prepared my body for the attacks.

Go left! Now right! Right again! DUCK! He’s so swift with his strikes it’s almost too much for me to handle. I tried looking for any openings out but it was useless! All the doors are locked and he’s blocking the switch.

“How come he gets tied up but I have to be killed now?”

“Personal grudges.”

I got backed into a corner and narrowly avoided a butcher knife thrown straight at my head. Whatever greater force is keeping me safe, I owe you my life.

Wait! He threw a knife!

Genius struck me as I pulled the blade out from the wall. I charged at him, getting all my energy ready for the blow. Meatsweats chuckled.

“Aww, you really think you can fight back with a tiny cleaver?”

“Not quite.”

Instead of the slice the idiot pig prepared for, I planted my foot firm on the ground and swung the sharp blade to the left, smashing right through the window.

“What the-”

Perfect! Now to take care of the swine.

I darted around the room taunting him, now being the one to control where he’d strike. My heart was beating at the speed of sound, legs quick and light. My reflexes took over completely. It’s crazy to say this but I feel like I’m really in my zone!

Once I annoyed him enough to turn his blows even more aggressive than before, I ran right behind him, clinging on to his back. He took the bait and smashed down. The metal hammer hit him smack dab on the head as I dodged away, knocking him out.

Cutting my celebrations short, I rushed over to the boy and helped him up. He flinched at my touch, the bag still blinding his sight.

“What’s happening?!”

“Your rescue, that’s what. Now, come on!”

I helped him avoid the loose shards on the bottom while getting his body out the window. I stuck my head out and yelled for Donnie, who was still right behind us relieved to see me in one piece.

“Donnie I’m throwing him out the window, tell me when Mikey’s ready!”

“I THOUGHT YOU SAID YOU WERE RESCUING ME!”

After getting the thumbs up from Donnie, I pushed the boy out to the streets and sure enough, Mikey’s chains caught him and pulled him up to wherever he was on the roofs.

I heard a grunt behind me. Meatsweats was awake already? God I can’t believe I was scared I actually hurt him.

I scampered up to the roof of the truck. Unfortunately got jumpscared as the vent flung open and Meatsweats tried going through it. My bad for wanting to catch my breath, I guess.

“Salena jump!”

I took his suggestion and ran forward, avoiding the grimy mutant pig, and leaped over to the tank. A hole opened up and allowed me inside with Donnie looking back, setting the tank to autopilot and checking me for any serious injuries.

“So which one of you dum-dums thought it was a brilliant plan to send the untrained non-mutant human into the murderous chef’s vehicle?”

“Oh, was that bad?” Well, at least it’s over now.

Mikey’s voice came through Donnie’s own hand wrap. His were larger than Mikey’s, covering his entire palm compared to Mikey’s wrist bands.

“Donnie! Is Salena okay?”

“Physically or mentally.”

“Yepperoni. I’m right here, Mikey.”

“Phew good! And uh, by any chance, are you guys still following

Meatsweats?”

“Uh, I’m about to stop the tank, why?”

He nervously laughed “So um, you know the person we just saved right? Apparently he had a really important USB with him and he thinks it fell out in the truck…”

“OH COME ON!”

And so the chase continues as we scrambled to find answers.

“Are we really going to keep tracking Meatsweats for a USB drive? Who even uses them anymore!”

“He sounds super panicked so it must be bad, Dee. What if it’s something dangerous?”

“He’s a teenager, Micheal, why would he have dangerous intel?”

“Aren’t you two teenagers?”

“We don’t count!”

“How do we even get it from Meatsweats’ truck?”

Donnie switched over to the control manual and got a bunch of missiles ready “That’s it! I’m going lethal!”

Mikey’s face appeared on the monitor “Donnie don’t! You could destroy the drive thingie.”

“But my moment…”

“Donnie!”

Red lights started blinking, warning about the tank’s declining gas.

“Fine but we’re running out of time, what else can we do?”

“Want me to jump back in?”

“Do you want to die?”

“Sometimes.” They stared at me wide-eyed as I had the dawning realization “Oh wait that was rhetorical, wasn’t it?”

I forced my three brain cells to try and be useful.

C’mon, brain. Think, Salena! Think!

I saw the cleaver I still had in my hands and got an idea.

Bingo!

“Donnie! Drive to his right!”

“What? Um okay. Wait, where are you going!?”

I climbed back out the hole on the top. “When I count to three, stop the Turtle Tank.”

“CAN ANYONE COMMUNICATE THEIR PLANS WITH ME BEFORE IMPULSIVELY JUMPING IN?”

I threw my hair back letting the rushing keep it out of the way.

“Ready Donnie?”

“No.”

I aimed the cleaver for the front right tire and began counting “One…”

Pulled my arm back, getting ready to throw “Two…”

I took a deep breath. Arms don’t fail me now. I swung forward and felt the handle leave my grasp.

“Three!”

The tank jolted to a stop, knocking me forward. Donnie came out and helped me to my feet.

“You good?”

“Well, I’m alive so.”

We looked up and saw the blade successfully puncture the tire, sending the truck skidding to a crash at a light pole.

“Great Galileo, you actually did it. I’ll confess, I’m impressed!” Is this what validation feels like?

The round tangerine joined us not too long after with the boy strapped to his back and came running towards me.

“Salena, you were amazing!” Validation and a hug on the same day? Have I been blessed?

“Hey can someone get this thing off my head now?”

I looked at the boy, then at the horrific scenery behind him. “Uh…maybe we should get to a less chaotic place first.”

Mikey handed me the USB he found in Meatsweats’ truck. ”Sorry our day got interrupted Salena. You can always come back after helping him!”

I was about to agree but felt a buzz on my skirt pocket. I took out my phone and saw a pestering text from my aunt as well as the time being 5:00pm.

“I would but, I should probably get home anyway. You guys okay with um…all that?” I pointed to the passed out pig in his broken down truck.

Donnie pat my head with one of his extra robot arms “No probbles, we’ll take care of it. You’ve helped enough.”

I guess he’s always been nice-ish to me but still didn’t expect affection from him.

I saw him and Mikey chatting while cleaning up the mess, Mikey beaming as Donnie ruffled what would’ve been his hair if he had any. I smiled. Maybe I just never looked close enough at Donnie. Seems like he’s always been this way.

I lead the boy away from the mutant havoc and into a more public area before taking the bag off his head.

“Are you okay?”

He blinked and I studied his features a bit more. Dark eyes, short black hair, and round glasses. “Yeah I-I think. Thanks for saving me.”

I handed him his pen drive and after a few more thank-yous, he left. As promised, gave Zane a call. He didn’t pick up though. I shrugged it off and started walking back home. What a day today has been!

Next Chapter

[koolaidashley]

okay so I just read thru the story and holy shit holy fuck I love it thank you so much for this a n g s t fjsjfjdjtj but also my soul is being crushed and i really really love the fluff but i also wanna cry so thank you for this wOo, for the actual ask tho, does leo still have the ability to teleport, like, he doesn't demember it, but will he be able to kinda like his fighting, by muscle memory or is it more stuck cus he can't remember his fam so his ninpo got the hibby gibbies? gess this is long sorry

HEHEHHE IM GLAD UR LIKIMG THE STORY IT BLOWS MY MIND HOW MANY PEOPLE R EMJOYING IT THANK U

ALSO FOR LEN AND HIS NINPO part of it is that he doesn’t remember it yes but he also doesn’t really have access to it at the moment. It got locked away (again) in the prison dimension, so he still has the ability yeah. The closest he’s come to feeling anything like it is when him and Donnie bumped into each other in the hidden city.

It’ll be elaborated more in the next few chapters too so I don’t wanna say too much but that’s the gist it’s the same gig as his memories in that he has the chance to regain it. If u walked up to Len and asked him about ninpo right now though he would just think ur crazy LMAO

[wizisbored]

11. Do you write scenes in order, or do you jump around?

a few years ago i was awful about sticking to chronological order but that was mostly because i wasnt actually posting fic, just fucking around with my Situations, so i kinda didnt have a reason to write anything that wasnt the scenes i was most interested in. once i got into actually posting my stuff i got into the habit of writing in order a lot more because im actually trying to tell the full story chapter by chapter now. i do sometimes still skip ahead to different chapters and write scenes im particularly hyped for or have a really solid mental picture of in advance but more and more often im just doing it in bullet-point outline form. i think thats actually because my idea of characterisation and motivation and all that changing throughout a story has improved. most of my stuff is very much focused on characters and character dynamics, and because my outlining is pretty loose if i try to skip ahead i dont know exactly where that characters attitude towards the situation and other characters is going to be by that point. to take netherborne as an example - its hard to skip ahead in that fic because i dont know exactly what lydia and beetlejuice's dynamic is going to look like at any given time. sure, i have a rough idea of how it evolves, but i cant pin down exactly how theyd talk to each other or what theyd tollerate from one another. i kinda just let these things naturally evolve as i write them, so skipping ahead puts me in a bit of a void. hence, i mostly only outline.

i do do small jumps fairly often though, as in a paragraph or two. if im getting really stuck on writing a particular moment in a chapter ill often just stick a bookmark there and skip to the next part i feel like i can write, and come back with fresh eyes later. i use a table of contents extention in google docs so its pretty easy to just put a header called 'bookmark' wherever im currently writing. the first chapter of runnign iorn actually has three right now - one because i havent properly figured out how to open it, one because i havent fully figured out how to finish beetlejuice's first scene, and one where im up to with lydia

(from this ask game)

[m1ckeyb3rry]

A

LMAO we only accept non basic exceptionalism as coined by Karasu but if reader had an espeon and got eevees with otoya imagine how much worse the tweak out would be when otoya gets a sylveon LMAOOO reader gets espeon first and hes like oh yeah seal the deal im def getting an umbreon now gotta have the power duo and then bam sylveon

Omg wait hioris nidoqueen just becoming an honorary member of reader and co solely because of it getting along with nidoking and garchomp waitttttt imagine a side story where they get stuck in like some electric type situation (im thinking like the ferroseed issue in the bw anime) and they have to rely on their only ground types (iirc those are the only three then but I could be wrong but ykwim) actually i always found those episodes interesting where they get stuck and are limited to a certain pokemon (bonus points if the character didn’t originally get along with that one LMAO)

LMAO wait that lowk also makes more sense I feel like a deino would harder to catch than phanpy waittt illegal pokemon abuse ring arc that would go hard

LUKEWARM DONUT thats so random im crying i almost forgot about the whole “team x thinks she’s one of them” thing im ngl it kinda makes me laugh like ofc those team organizations are usually huge but i just imagine it like you don’t even know your own co workers LMFAOO

WAIT ATOPPP THATD BE SUCH A CUTE EPISODE zooming in on little Polaroid snippets of precious moments

LMAOO no because I read that fic like “okay so where’s part two with justice for Karasu….”

SHSHSHSB OAEU BAROU WAS SOOOOOOOOO GOOD I actually had such a fun time reading it as usual can’t wait for what you cook up next!!

I’m fr waiting for s2 to spread the tabieita agenda given that there’s a good amount of focus on them in the first third selection match in very hopeful LOL

LMAOO I originally thought of pursuit being another Nagi marker for you (and hopefully it’ll still be one) but itd be kinda comical if people ended up associating it with Barou instead HSGSHS but once it’s actually written it’ll probably be more Nagi since hes, yk actually ALIVE and we see him a lot more than Barou

Professor aiku is gonna be so funny LMAOO like when he locks in people are like “wait you actually have a brain I thought you were just a Prof for memes and chicks” it’s crazy how we now have prequel main series and sequel cast developed LMAO

You probably already saw my commentary in your inbox by this point EDIT: I just saw the response gonna go read that now but OOOOH excited either way do you have anything particular in mind?

Also unrelated but have you seen the latest jjk chapter I lowk don’t remember like half the characters but yk it’s fine

- Karasu anon

THAT’S EXACTLY WHAT I WAS THINKING LMAOAOA like otoya sees the espeon and he’s like YUP we’re set time to lock in i just KNOW i’m getting an umbreon it’s basically fate and then he in fact does not 😭 but agreed karasu said it best there’s no time to be mediocre/average when we can have fun cool slightly unusual pokémon (not that reader’s team is super off the beaten path anymore but still i feel like hydreigon is def a bit of a rarer pick than garchomp for example would be)

yes nidoking and garchomp are the only ground types w reader and co!! actually mc trio doesn’t have any either the only other ground types are barou’s krookodile, hiori’s nidoqueen, and yukimiya’s steelix 🧐 imagine we get a yukimiya comeback just for that arc LMAOO like they’re struggling nidoking is carrying everyone on his back and then all of a sudden yuki pulls up like “need a ride 🤩⁉️” and everyone piles onto his giant snake HAHAHA

agreed i think her deino will be very stubborn esp at first (houndour beats it up while it’s still young so it listens better once it’s older) so it makes sense that it refused to be caught plus phanpy being more common means reader probably wouldn’t care as much like if she misses she misses but deino she NEEDS to have (or maybe deino is about to destroy their campsite so the only option she has is capturing it since houndour is off helping karasu collect firewood) the pokémon abuse ring is def an interesting arc i’m looking forward to it!! basically otoya is so rizzful that the nurse joy is like “look the police/government aren’t doing anything about this but you guys are trainers can you investigate” (as more hints towards the government’s corruption…maybe they’re being paid off by the leaders of the ring??) and otoya immediately agrees (even though he and reader literally have one pokémon each since deino’s still healing at that point and karasu + tullia are busy elsewhere) so then he and reader go undercover and end up busting the ring and exposing them before sending them to jail (this could also make them automatic opps of the government since they’re clearly unruly/difficult to control)

LMAOO no because team x grunts fr see the houndour and they’re like yup okay she’s one of us even though there’s zero other evidence that she is?? but maybe the houndour line is rare due to their bad reputation and association w team x so they weren’t entirely wrong in assuming that

bro once again pokémon studios needs to hire me IMMEDIATELY i could make such a good series like literally just animate pursuit atp it would be fire…speaking of side stories idk if you remember the pursuit graphic so i’ll add it down below

i was thinking like for the side stories i’ll replace the houndoom with the character’s signature pokémon/starter?? so for a karasu side story it would garchomp, for otoya it would sylveon, hiori’s is kingdra or maybe nidoqueen, tullia’s is infernape, isagi’s is stoutland, etc etc i think it would be a fun way to differentiate the side story chapters from the main ones!!

no fr i was like ok so can we leave otoya and get w karasu now?? please??? i don’t want eita he’ll CHEAT on me GIVE ME KARASU NEOWWWWW and then i just wrote a bunch of karasu one shots myself JFJDKS

i actually feel like rather than barou people might associate it with KARASU since he’s the most present male in reader’s life during the story (at least before nagi starts locking in) and they’re super super close and as we know people have a hard time differentiating between platonic/familial and romantic love 😓 imagine everyone’s like “why didn’t she end up with karasu they’re obviously in love” HE’S A PARALLEL TO HER BROTHERRR (technically cousin but for emotional closeness’s sake barou’s her brother) COME ON NOW YES THEY LOVE EACH OTHER VERY MUCH NO IT IS NOT ROMANTIC anyways…

PLS pursuit universe is so deep and extensive we fr have every era defined…no because aiku as a professor cracks me up he definitely is the professor that gets stuck without a pokémon and the trainer character has to pick a pokémon at random to save him (maybe this is how niko meets him LMAOOO) to be fair bro IS doing a thesis like he is quite smart he’s also just goofy (very brock coded)

i’m very undecided what to release next…i’m getting lots of sweet comments abt the barou version of the oaeu so maybe i should just stick with that?? or maybe old requests?? or my 1k event?? smth else entirely?? it will be a surprise just whatever i’m inspired for when i sit down w my ipad to write ig 😭

i did see it!! i am…uh…a little lost tbh it felt very random once again like nothing of particular note actually happened 😰 and now the trio is just going on a mission?? but this wednesday is the last chapter so for better or worse things will be over then!! maybe it’ll make more sense afterwards 😭 lowkey i can’t believe it’ll be over in three-ish days that’s kind of insane to think abt…definitely the end of an era

[reocidal]

05. aftereffects

you're forced to ignore any feelings of insecurity when you pile into osamu's car with atsumu and rintarou. sakusa drives alone — "no one's throwing up inside my car" — so you're stuck in the back of osamu's one with both your brothers in the front. rintarou looks at you almost appreciatively, and your stomach twists, a lethal tangle of fire and butterflies.

"what?" you ask.

"nothing," he replies plainly. "you look nice today."

you almost choke on air. "what?"

"it's called a compliment, dumbass," he deadpans, before going back to scrolling on his phone. you find it difficult to stay upset after this little interaction, and even more so when he shifts to a more comfortable position. where it's as if his knee is purposely jutted out to brush against yours.

"are you sure this is a good idea?" kiyoomi's brows are furrowed as he stares at atsumu, who's drunkenly fiddling with the television remote. hearing him talk, he turns back to grin at the two of you.

"omiii," he whines. "let's have some fun for once, guys!"

and for whatever reason, kiyoomi doesn't argue after this.

the five of you are at atsumu and kiyoomi's apartment, where you're apparently going to watch a movie — courtesy of atsumu. that is, until he realises that he's lost his phone.

"you can't use mine," says rintarou from where he's situated beside you. you don't know why he's choosing to sit beside you when there's so much space elsewhere, but it's not like you can complain, either. but then kiyoomi nods in agreement, and osamu's one is dead, so only you are left.

"no way," you say, but a moment later you're syncing your phone up to the TV. when it finally connects, you breathe a sigh of relief and turn the movie on. it's short-lived, though, because it suddenly refuses to start. so you try again. and again. and again, and you hear rintarou groan. a second later, your screen — still projected on the television — freezes before going from landscape to portrait mode, and a bunch of notifications pop up on your screen. behind you, suna chokes.

you're not sure why or how everything finishes so fast, but one second you're trying to fix the TV, and the next you're on the way home.

"i have to go," says rintarou suddenly. "i don't feel that good." the movie is forgotten, and osamu offers to drop you off, but you decline — you don't think you have it in you to spend another second with him. and when you get home, you plop down on your bed, finally able to text your anonymous online friend back.

series masterlist

authors note(s) !

first pic is rins phone second is yns

he was like,, kinda tipsy at first btw?? IDK HOW DRINKING WORKS IM A MINOR

oshit he knows!!!!!!

ASK ME HOW I MADE THE NOTIFS!!1!1 DO THEY LOOK REAL

also filler chapter but this was so necessary

i havent forgotten ab the insecurities n stuff we'll see more of that topic AGAIN in meet me at the 7-11

i passed with so many flying colors they thought i was gay

my mom thinks my profile banner is also gay like this post if you agree with her

taglist is open ! (40/50)

@wooasecret @yuminako @dawnisatotalqueen @thechaosoflonging @boogiemansbitch @chloiyoomi @mikauraurr @just-coreee @chemiru @twiishaa @imcheshire @zozodahobo @fallenisded @nyxlai @sp1ng @sunsribn @sellomaybe @savemebrazilhinata @semieita24rockstargf @marsoverthestars @bellsoftheball @renardiererin @akaakeis @dazqa @piopioo @theepitomeofswag @smellysluna @theycallmenanamisgirl @strxbxrrylover @whydoyoucare866 @jiawji @toges-cough-syrup @harmonia-dread @dailyakira @staymoarmyzen @loverlunaire @akaashislovee @lovelymuffin @wtfdudewhydidyoutakemyusername @kazuubaby

comment or send an ask to be tagged <33

likes n rbs r appreciated <3 thank you !

© iiwaijime 2024

[ginnsbaker]

Omg the final chapter(minus epilogue). Its so bittersweet because I’ve absolutely adored this book and waiting for updates has practically killed me at times and ofc im gonna miss this wanda so much the way you wrote her was just phenomenal I can’t even put it into words.

My heart was breaking when reader didn’t show up and then was a year late i was genuinely worried even though i knew you wouldn’t do that to us. I felt for wanda so bad but i kinda like she’s formed some kind of relationship with nat (it would be nice for reader two important people in their life getting on)

Im glad all the other relationships resolved themselves especially reader and nat.

I knew the second the owner who was on a honeymoon was mentioned it was agatha but is it really a main character if they don’t jump to conclusions 😂

These two better live happily ever after now istg

What you’ve managed to achieve with this series has been amazing you should be so proud of yourself I’ve loved every moment of this (yes even the angst) im so excited to see what you write next (natasha maybe 🤔)

-🧃

Helloooooooo!

It was heartbreaking for me to make Wanda wait, but a year is short. I still can't believe it's 2023, I think I'll forever remain stuck in 2020 to be honest.

I thought about how the waiting will look to others, if they'll find it realistic, but then again, I'm someone who had been in love with someone who didn't return my feelings and it went on for almost 3 years of just them in my heart. Couldn't even bring myself to crush on someone else.

We don't get many happy endings and relationship closures in real life, so I really wanted to give this story everything.

Thank you so much my 🧃 anon for all your wonderful thoughts and comments. You helped shaped this series and made me smile and thoughtful of my work. Truly, it's been a hell of a ride and thank you for being there with me!

[koneko-3]

Chapter 5 of "Light"

There stood my mother, staring into the camera. "Hi mom, it's been a while." She said with a bit of relief in her voice. "Ryuka finally went to sleep. She is just a blessing. Kiro's condition keeps getting worse by the days. I'm afraid he's going to hurt someone or even us." Her voice started to tremble with fear. "I love him so much, but I don't want him to hurt anyone, especially me and our daughter-" after that I paused the tape. "Kiro can't be a suspect." I said. "Your parents are dead aren't they?" Ryu asked. "Yes, they passed when I was only five..." "That rolls one suspect off our list." Ryu said confidently. I started to worry. "Wait, then who is left on our list? There's no one left right?" I started to freak out. Ryu grabbed my shoulder and sighed. "Ryuka, you need to calm down. Plus we have many other people to suspect." "People like who?! Ryu just tell me!!" His hand slid from my shoulder to now my arm. "Ryuka, can you please calm down for me?" I took a deep breath and sighed. "Okay, I'll try." My face turned to a light shade of pink. "There were a couple people around here before I found you when you arrived home from school. And I'm afraid your friend Tsukuba is one of them." He said calmly. I pushed him, "No, you're lying. Tsukuba would never kill anyone!" He clenched my hand while his face turned beet red. "Ryuka, I would never lie to you. Please believe me. We are getting closer to the truth I swear. I just need you to hold on." He looked up at me and let go of my hand. I was in shock and awe while he stood and was trying not to stare at me. "Ryu... do you like me?" I asked. He looked right back at me. "No Ryuka, I actually fell in love with you..." he said while trembling his words. In that moment I realized he was brave enough to even tell me this. So I decided I should confess as well. "Ryu... I-I actually feel the same way..." I trembled. Then he hugged me. "Ryuka, I-I love you!" He shouted. Both our faces were beet red. our lips touched at that moment. If felt like a sensation ive never felt before. I pushed him away. "What's wrong?" He asked. "This feels wrong." I said. He placed his arm around me. "Its okay, we dont have to tell anyone." He said casually as he started to kiss me again. I couldnt resist since it felt so great. "Okay, we have ti stop. We have work to do." I said abruptly. "Oh, your right. Im sorry this all just cane out all at once Ryuka. It kinda felt right." He said embarrassed. "If anything. Im not ready for a relationship just yet." "Its okay..." he started walking away. Both our faces we flushed red. I took the tape out of the player and took it with me as evidence.

The next day at school, i couldn't keep my eyes off him. He couldn't either. After class Setsuna approached me. "So whats the deal between you and Ryu?" "W-what do you mean?" I said trembling. "You two have been acting weird." "Eh, no we haven't." I said. She grunted. "Ryuka, I know you're lying!" She stood there with a fierce look in her eyes, demanding an honesty answer from me. I sighed, "Fine, just dont tell Margie. Me and Ryo kinda have a thing with each other." "I knew it!" She started started to do a small victory dance which made me feel embarrassed. "Setsuna can you please stop!" I yelled. She kept going and stuck her tongue out at me. I sighed. I regretted everything at that moment. From the moment we kissed to now Setsuna knowing. How am I going to get out of this?

Eventually Setsuna let up but i left before she could say anything else. I walked to the nearest diner as I held my umbrella in the summer rain. I only wanted to be alone and clear my mind after everything that has already happened to me. After I ate I visited the graves of what now is the home to gram gram and aunt Maki. I rain continued to fall but even harder now. Tears started to roll down my face as I remembered the memories of them both. I felt someone grabbed my shoulder. I turn around to see Ryu. "I figured I could find you here." He said with a reassuring smile. I stared at him. "Why are you here?" I asked him. "Because I care about you. Look I know everything was a little sudden-" I stopped him before he could say anymore. "Just leave me alone." He grabbed my hand as I tried to leave. "I'm not letting you go. At least not alone."

[solomonyau]

what it's like inside my mind - Chapter 12 : 'a letter to my next love'

A Letter to My Next Love, 

Hi, I'm Solomon. You can call me Sol for short,

If were we were to be together, I'd want you to know that you're one of the most beautiful girls that Ive ever talked to

I'm about 6ft tall, & I'll probably weigh around 200 pounds when I meet you, 

If not I'm probably a lil more on the chubbier side

But maybe thatll be a good thing if you're into hugs

I have Filipino lineage, but dont expect me to have an accent

I speak a couple languages but I'm the most confident in my English as you can see

& Im learning to love the little parts of myself that I have yet to do so

I love cooking whenever I have the chance to,

& a damn good cup of coffee whether its made personally (biasely)by me or even my favorite baristas

My favorite Netflix series is 'How I Met Your Mother', I tend to pull inspirationn & quotes from it far too often especially when all my closest friends are all advid 'FRIENDS' watchers 

Id truly sometimes think that I'm just the real life version of Ted Mosby,

I aspired to be a singer, rapper, doctor, psychologist, philosopher, & maybe all the above but I kinda stucked with becoming a Physiotherapist

My friends tend to never really crack their necks around me because Id give them a stare but trust me I might~ just give you a pass

I play many sports, but you'd soon find out that I'm really just a student of the game, 

& being honest with you, it's just another one of my many escapes,  

I'd want you to know that my heart has been broken, many times over yet somehow Im still a hopeless romantic,

I guess its because I chase dreams endlessly like a child & tend to space out in the endless possibilities that life has to offer. 

Which would make me somewhat of story teller.

I deal with my emotions like how'd sometimes I'd wear a shirt where some moments they're on & most often times they're not

I battle with myself sometimes which leads to me secluding myself, Yet I'm a people person. 

I'm trying to slowly understand how I can be such a contridiction

Maybe you'll learn to love this, in the same way I'm learning to love the little parts of myself

& on the topic of love, I hope that you know that the responsibility of my happiness doesn't fall entirely on your shoulders

Whether we end up in marriage or not at all, I'd want you to know that I won't regret a single second spent with you

I hope you understand that change will happen, no matter whether its individually or together

I dont want to go through with this knowing that we'll be the same people that we entered as

I'd want you to know that how I view love might be the same way I'd read a book, where I'd continously fall deeper with every page, chapter, & every book that I finish in your continous series called 'Falling In Love with You' 

I'd want you to know that you'd be the epitome of my love story, whether its the past, present or future , & that the real estate that you have within my mind will fully be occupied.

So if this is about you. & if you're ready for whatever it is that I have to offer,

I'd hope that you'd be careful with my heart, as I'd be careful with yours, 

& lastly, I won't promise you the universe, but I'd pray that the universe somehow promises me you.

[itwasrocky-inthelab-withhisdick]

Hii I’m fixating on clue again so you can read about that if you’d like🧍🏻