#in english its sun moon stars sky

[amethyst-cave]

can you tell me about your oc :0

HI!! @mspec-genderqueer-polypd

so let me start by saying this is going to be the most rambly thing ever and everything I have written for them is in german so excuse my english.

Okay so their name is Hyazinth and they live in a modern magic universe with witches. And they weren't supposed to be the main character but they are in my heart and I'm sort of considering to rewrite the story from their perspective, but for that I have to finish the original story first.

Anyways they're in a poly relationship with three other witches that met by fate and they are all in love /p and /r. All four of them get to know each other (before they all know they're magic) and then they move in together and are happy but not before one of them (her names Fiona and shes a sweetheart but gets lost in her thirst for knowledge) does something stupid and gets really really hurt leaving her out and permanently injured. Hyazinth is her best friend but he's so angry and frustrated because Fiona does not take good enough care of herself.

But they all get their shit together in the end and live as happy as they can be.

Also a few fun facts about them because I love them soso much:

They have a podcast where they interpret peoples dreams and tell them what sort of spells they should perform to help them. Half of the fanbase thinks it's fantasy and made up but the other half knows that they're forreal.

I haven't mentioned him but they and Mila (one of the four fucks) are in a qpp.

Fiona and them had a friends with benefits relationship for a while, but they stopped because it stopped being something they wanted.

They also make custom enchanted jewlery and are very good at working with metal

This is sort of what they look like but since I can't draw it isn't 100% accurate since I made it on piccrew.

anywanys I hope you enjoyed my rambles I love talking

[theostrophywife]

written in the stars.

pairing: theodore nott x reader. song inspiration: until i found you by stephen sanchez feat. em beihold. author's note: boyfriend theo is the best theo. if you're wondering, then yes writing this hurt me as much as it hurts reading it but like in the best way possible.

Theodore Nott has always had an affinity for the stars. 

When he was younger, Theo's mother used to take him to the rooftop of Nott Manor and point out the constellations to him. The stars told stories, his mum had said. Theo listened with rapt attention as she recounted the tales of Aquila, Heracles, and Orion as they glittered against the backdrop of the English countryside.

The two of them would make an entire evening out of it. Laying on his back atop a nest of blankets and pillows, little Theo watched as the stars climbed higher and higher, filling the horizon with hope and light. Stargazing had been their special secret. The one thing that wasn’t tainted by his abusive father. Theo guarded the memory of those nights in his heart like a priceless treasure.

After his mother’s passing, Theo continued their tradition of stargazing. Even if she was no longer alive, all he had to do was look up at the sky to feel her with him. For that reason, the stars were special to him and he’d never shared its meaning with anyone. 

Until tonight. 

“Watch your step, cara mia.” Theo said as he guided you by the small of your back. 

The dark cloth covering your eyes prohibited you from seeing, but you trusted your boyfriend to keep you from falling. Though you weren’t a fan of surprises, Theo was impossible to resist. All he had to do was flash those pretty watercolor eyes at you and you were an absolute goner. 

For you, Theo had always been the exception. 

He guided you up a staircase, keeping a firm grip on your waist as the two of you ascended. Wherever you were going, it was pretty high up. You smiled as Theo took hold of your waist, knowing that you weren't the biggest fan of heights. Sometimes it felt like he knew you better than you knew yourself. When you reached the top, Theo unfastened his tie from behind your head. 

“You can open your eyes now, sweetheart.” 

You blinked, letting your eyes adjust to the dark. The wind whistled through the stone arches of the Astronomy Tower, framing the starkissed night with its marble pillars. The soft glow of the moon illuminated the nest of blankets and pillows arranged in the middle of the wooden floor. 

“Did you do all of this for me, babe?” 

Theo smiled. “I thought you might like to go stargazing with me,” he said, his voice soft. “Do you like it, my love?” 

“I love it, Teddy.” You beamed, standing on your tiptoes to kiss his nose. “But not nearly as much as I love you.” 

Theo grinned before pulling you in for a proper kiss. His lips were soft against yours and he tasted like peppermint. Butterflies erupted in your stomach as your knees buckled slightly. Theo never failed to make you feel like a lovestruck school girl. It never stopped feeling like this despite how many times you kissed this boy.

As if reading your thoughts, Theo smiled against your lips. “Come on, Y/N. I want to show you my favorite constellations.” 

The two of you laid down beneath the stars, making yourself comfortable amidst the blankets and pillows. Wordlessly, Theo pulled you into his arms and you nestled into the crook of his neck, breathing in the familiar scent of sea salt spray and sun kissed skin. 

“Tell me the story of the stars, Teddy.” 

He smiled, brushing your hair back. “That one right there is Ursa Major. Otherwise known as the Big Dipper, but if you look at the entire constellation, it actually forms a bear.” 

“I remember learning about that when I was little,” you said, gazing up at the sky. “Didn’t it have something to do with Zeus?”

Theo nodded. “In Greek mythology, the Olympian God Zeus fell in love with Callisto and got her pregnant. After she gave birth to the child, Hera was so mad she turned Callisto into a bear.” 

“That hardly seems fair,” you responded with a frown. 

“Zeus was a bit of a wanker,” Theo said in agreement. “Hera was even worse. She cursed Callisto to wander the forest for years in bear form until she was hunted by her own son Arcas. Just as he raised his spear to strike her down, Zeus stepped in and sent them up to the heavens. Callisto as Ursa Major and Arcas as Bootes.” 

“The Greek gods were truly a piece of work,” you replied. “But at least we got those constellations out of them."

You squinted, pointing at the cluster of stars hovering in the east. “What’s that one?” 

“That’s the constellation of Leo,” explained Theo. “Named after the Nemean lion that Heracles defeated during the first of his twelve labours.” 

“Didn’t he make a cloak out of the lion’s pelt?” 

“Smart girl,” Theo said proudly. “The cloak made Heracles invincible and more fearsome than he already was. The Nemean lion’s heart is made up of the star Regulus, which is associated with the arrival of spring.” 

“The Little King. I read that it burns hotter than the sun.” 

Theo couldn’t help but smile. Before he met you, he never thought he’d find someone to share such a special and intimate thing with. He was worried that no one else would understand his love for the stars, but as he watched you peer curiously up at the sky, your nose scrunched in careful concentration, Theo felt all of his doubts fade away. 

“Regulus is unique because it can be seen in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres.” 

The blue star glittered brightly above your heads, as if it was showing off for the occasion. “It’s beautiful,” you breathed. 

Theo stared at you, at the childlike wonder shimmering in your eyes, and he felt like the breath had been knocked out of his lungs. The gravity of what he felt for you hit him all at once. 

“Yeah,” Theo said softly, still looking at you. “Beautiful.” 

You grinned, intertwining your fingers and kissing his knuckles. “How do you know so much about the stars, Teddy?” 

“My mum taught me.” Theo answered, drawing circles on your hip. “When I was little, she used to take me to the rooftop of the manor and tell me the story behind each star. She was fascinated by them. Before she met my father, she wanted to teach astronomy at the Stati Magia.”

“The Italian School of Witchcraft?” 

Theo nodded. “My mother attended the Stati Magia, just like her mother and her mother before her. A tradition that I unintentionally broke, as nonna Lucia loves to remind me. Sometimes I think the old bat wishes that I was born a strega instead.” 

You giggled. “You would’ve been a very pretty witch.” Theo chuckled as you propped your head up in one hand. “Did your mum end up becoming a professor?”

“No,” Theo said sadly. “After I was born, my father said that her place was at the manor. He refused to move to Florence, even though he knew it was my mother’s dream.” 

You stroked his hair, nodding emphatically. Theo rarely talked about his mother. You knew that her passing was a painful subject for him, so you never pushed him to talk about it unless he wanted to.

“That’s awful. I’m so sorry, my love,” you said. “But at least she was able to pass down her love of the stars to you. In a way, she lived her dream by teaching you.” 

A soft smile tugged at your boyfriend’s lips. “I suppose she did.” 

You laid back down, but this time you cradled Theo against you. He rested his head against your chest, listening to the calming sound of your heartbeat. Talking about his mother will always be hard, but you helped ease the pain. 

“What about those stars?” You asked, pointing to the north. “What did your mother tell you about them?” 

“Perseus and Andromeda,” Theo answered. “Those are actually her favorites.”

“The chained maiden.” 

Theo stirred, inclining his gaze to the horizon. “Andromeda was the Princess of Aethiopia, the daughter of King Cepheus and Queen Cassiopeia. She was said to be very beautiful. Her mother bragged that Andromeda was fairer than the Nereids, which angered Poseidon. As punishment, the Sea God sent the creature Cetus to ravage that coast of their kingdom.” 

You nodded, recalling the story. “King Cepheus chained her to a rock and offered her as a sacrifice to appease the sea monster.” 

“Luckily for Andromeda, the hero Perseus found her before Cetus could attack again. Perseus fell in love with Andromeda and defeated the monster so he could free the princess. They ended up marrying and became king and queen of Mycenae. When they died, the goddess Athena placed them side by side in the heavens so that they would never be parted, not even by death.” 

“A love written in the stars,” you said with awe and wonder. “I can see why it’s your mother’s favorite.”

“When I was a boy, she told me that she hoped I’d experience a love like theirs, minus the sea monster of course.” You chuckled. Theo knit his brows together like he did when he was deep in thought. When he spoke again, his voice was barely audible. “It’s sad to think that she never found her Perseus.” 

You brushed his hair back, running your fingers through his curls gently. “She might not have found her Perseus, but she did have her Theo.”

Theo turned over and looked at you. The intensity in his gaze made you shiver. He was so ingrained in your heart that it felt inaccurate to continue calling it yours.

“After she died, I never thought I’d share her stories with anyone again, but I’m glad I shared them with you.” 

“Thank you for trusting me, Theo.” You said as you placed a kiss on his temple. “It means the world to me that you not only shared your mother’s stories, but her memory as well. I would’ve loved to meet her.”

The tender smile on Theo’s face was heartbreaking. Then softly, he whispered. “She would’ve loved you, Y/N.”

Your heart cracked open, his words spilling like sunlight over every crevice, warming you from the inside out.

Tears formed at the corners of your eyes, but you forced yourself to give Theo a watery smile. “Because I’m a nerd who memorized obscure mythological facts?”

Your boyfriend smiled. “No,” he said gently, caressing your cheek. “Because you made her wish come true. You are my love written in the stars, cara mia.” 

The moonlight kissed Theo’s tan skin, the silver beams caressing his face like a lover as if the moon and the stars craved to commit his beauty to memory as badly as you did. Gods, he was breathtaking. 

This was the Teddy you knew and loved. Your Teddy.

Those watercolor eyes shimmered with emotion. “Sometimes I think the gods made you just for me, like our souls are linked in a way that neither logic nor magic can explain. Whatever it is, I think I’ve loved you since before the heavens and the earth existed and I’m fairly certain that I’d still love you even after the last star falls out of the sky.”

“You’re the love of my life, Theodore Nott.” Tears streamed down your cheeks as this boy—this beautiful boy ensnared your mind, body, and soul. “I’d find you in any universe and in any galaxy. Maybe someday we’ll be immortalized in the stars too.” 

Theo held your face in his hands. His expression was open and vulnerable, like he wasn’t afraid to lay himself bare before you. As if it was the most natural thing in the world. 

“We’re two halves of a whole,” Theo said. “I loved you yesterday. I love you today and I’ll love you tomorrow. You’re it for me, Y/N. You and no one else.” 

“You and no one else, Teddy.” 

Under the constellations of the star crossed lovers, Theo kissed you so gently that it made your heart ache. As Andromeda and Perseus kept watch over the horizon, Theodore Nott knew one thing for certain.

Someday the stars would tell your story too.

[leonstoenailunderhisbed]

Professor, I didn’t cheat. (PT.2)

Summary: Professor Kennedy takes for you a date after your intimate moment in his office.

Warning: not proofread. smut. oral smut (m receiving) unprotected sex. creampie.

A/N: being an English major is so fun, my only hw is literally just read books and give me opinion on them. and to think I wanted to major in physics 😮

(pt.1) (pt.2)

After that moment you two had in his office, things became different. Stolen glances when you’d walk down the hall, the way he’d stare at you as if you’re the only one in the room. The tension was thick but he knew he shouldn’t indulge into his desires with one of his pupils.

It was ironic because he right now he was making out with you in his office. You sat on his lap as his hands rested on your waist. He gently squeezed the curvature of your waist as you moaned into the kiss. His tongue grazed your bottom lip, asking permission to enter your mouth. He sucked on your bottom lip as your tongue danced around with his.

Both of you broke apart, with his gently pulling you away from his face. The two of you remained panting but didn’t move. His hands rested on your body as he looked at you. He looked at you as if you were the most beautiful woman on the planet.

“Let me take you on a date,” he blurted out as his thumbs caressed your skin. You were shocked and stunned for a few seconds before a smile appeared on your face. You nibbled on your bottom lip as you nodded, feeling like a high school girl all over again.

And so here you were. In front of your mirror wearing an elegant and classy red dress. It reached up to your knees. It wasn’t too flashy but it wasn’t too fancy. It was just right. From the waist up, the corset remained tight and hugged your upper body with grace. The skirt hang loosely around your legs, the satin fabric making gentle contact with your freshly shaven skin.

Leon had made reservations to a fancy restaurant. He wanted the best for you so what better way to express that than by taking you the most beautiful place in town.

Leon was a classic man. He texted you around 7:30 that he’d pick you up by 8PM and bring you back home unscathed. In his eyes, you were a goddess. You were the sun shining down on him, you were the moon illuminating his dark path. Your beauty outshined that of the stars covering the night sky. To him, you were his muse. And he wasn’t afraid to show it.

So when you got out of your apartment and stood in front of Leon, he couldn’t believe what he was seeing. His jaw went slack as his eyes scanned you up and down, slowly memorizing this image of you. He didn’t want to forget the way his muse looked right now.

“You look…beautiful,” his voice was laced with adoration. He stepped up to you and extended his hand to you. Wanting to walk you to his car because why should you walk alone?

The ride to the restaurant wasn’t awkward. There was a comfortable silence that enveloped the two of you. He had to stop himself from staring too much as he was the one driving and he didn’t want to put you in danger.

The restaurant was beyond beautiful. Its structure was one of ancient Italian architecture.

He opened the door for you and walked behind you as you marveled the inside of the establishment. There were paintings on the roof and the windows were decorated with carved sculptures. The music playing was soft classical- not too loud but not too quiet. It was just right. The entire atmosphere screamed rich and classy. Just like him.

A waiter walked you two to a table right next to a window. He figured you’d like to see the view of the outside and he was right. As you stared out the window, he stared at you. You really captured this man’s heart and he was falling for you more and more.

First dates are awkward but not with him. Leon was a smooth talker, he was natural at this. So when he ordered for the both of you and you tried to protest, he gave you a stern look, “Don’t worry, I got this.” He said in his confident tone. He wanted to take care of you and he’d do it whether you like it or not.

After getting some appetizers, he began to talk to you. He wanted to get to know you. As he took a sip of his champagne, he looked over at you as you sat across from him, “So, tell me. What are you studying that requires you to take my course?”

“Well…I’m majoring in history,” you replied with a soft smile. Which was then mirrored on Leon’s face, “A history major in our midst. Why history of all things?”

“I just really like to learn about the past. Not just about the wars and everything in between. Rather the history of how society came to be. I just think human history is interesting,” You replied shyly.

Leon chuckled and took another sip of his drink before talking, “That’s good. You should study something that you like.”

As the food arrived, you couldn’t help but be fascinated with his life. He’s got a PhD in Philosophy as well as a Masters degree in Sociology with a Minor in Political Science. He’s old but you didn’t think he’d have time to do all of that.

The date was going well. Leon said a couple of jokes and you laughed at them. Your laugh was like music to his ears and he only wanted to hear more. You guys talked about everything. It was as if there really was no boundary between you two. You talked about everything and anything- your hobbies, your likes and dislikes. That one time your professor from another class caught you hiding behind a student so you wouldn’t have to participate.

“No, it was so embarrassing!” You said as you covered your face with your hands, resulting in Leon cackling.

“I don’t even think that’s ever happened to me with my students, you really do have unique experiences,” he teased as he sipped his champagne.

“To this day, I still get major embarrassment,” you fanned your face as you felt it grow hot from embarrassment to which he only laughed again.

He had a great time and so did you. So when the time marked 11PM, he felt a small twinge of sadness. He didn’t want the date to be over, he wanted to keep talking to you. That was until he felt your heel ride up along his leg.

He raised his brow and looked at you, “What are you doing?” He asked with a small smirk. He knew exactly what you were doing.

“Nothing…” You replied as you gave him your most innocent smile. He chuckled and leaned closer to the table to take your hand. His thumb caressing on your skin, drawing small circles.

“It’s getting late, I should take you home,” he spoke softly.

“Oh yeah, it’s getting late,” you let out a small sigh as the two of you got up from your table. Leon paid, of course, and walked out of the restaurant with his hand on your lower back. His touch was firm but soft.

As he led you to his car, he let you borrow his suit jacket so you wouldn’t be cold. Man, this guy was raising the standard. Once inside the car, he started the engine and began to drive to your apartment.

He brought his hand over to your thigh and gently squeezed. It was supposed to be something between the lines of “thank you for coming on a date with me” and “just you wait until we get back to your place.” The thrill was so enticing, it only made your panties grow a small wet spot from how turned on you were from his touch.

He parked right in front of your apartment and walked you to the front door. As you took out your keys and tried to find the one that opened the door, he couldn’t help but let his eyes wonder to your ass. God that dress did you justice. He wanted to touch it and grip that ass so hard until you rubbed against his hard erection with dirty noises spilling out of your mouth and-

“Want to come inside?” His thoughts were interrupted by your sweet voice. He cleared his throat and looked you in the eyes as he nodded, “Sure, yeah.”

Once he stepped inside and you closed the door, he pinned you against the wall and started to kiss you. His hands gripped your hips as he pressed his body against yours. You could feel his erection through his pants as he pressed up against you. His lips melting with yours as if they were made for each other. Your lipstick staining his lips a soft red as he pulled back slightly, his lips hovering just above yours. “The things I want to do to you,” he growled as he kissed you passionately again. His left hand gripping your hip as his right hand traveled down to grab your ass, squeezing between his fingers. That only caused him to moan as he felt how much you loved how he groped your body.

You wrapped your arms around his shoulders and brought him closer to deepen the kiss. His tongue meshing with yours as you could taste the champagne off his mouth. He tasted so delicious and you were hungry for him.

He pulled back to catch his breath and you gently took his hands to guide him to your room. This time, you were in charge.

You pushed him down the edge of the bed so he could sit down. You sat on his hips as you began to kiss him again. Your lips trailing from his mouth to his neck. Leaving lipstick prints along his skin.

You slowly got off him and kneeled in between his legs. His breath hitches as he knew what you were about to do. Your hands unbuckled his belt and pulled down on his zipper, bringing forth his large erection. God he looked even better than last time.

Precum had been leaking down the side already. You wrapped your fingers gently along his base as you dropped a small drop of saliva down on his tip and spread it down with your finger. Leon leaned back against the bed as he moaned at your touch. He was loving every second of this and he was loving how much you were in control.

As you took his cock in your mouth, he closed his eyes tightly shut and immediately grabbed the top of your hair, tugging your scalp. You swirled your tongue around his head as you rubbed the remaining part of his base that couldn’t fit in your mouth. Bobbing your head as moans and grunts spilled out of him. He bucked his hips against your face, wanting to fuck your throat deeper. When he felt you gag slightly against his cock, he let out a loud growl and spoke lowly, “Fuck y/n… I’m going to cum.”

You looked up at him through your eyelashes and pulled your mouth away from his cock. He let out a faint gruff as you stopped him from his orgasm. But what he wasn’t ready for was that you had already taken off your wet panties and began to rub his cock with them.

He’s never seen anyone do this to him. To have someone rub their underwear on his cock only turned him on even more. He could feel that wet spot on the middle part of your panties and only made his cock throb even more. He couldn’t believe he was about to cum from just your panties.

So when his sticky cum shit out of his cock and to your panties, he groaned in pleasure as he saw you lick the cum off your own panties. He felt his cock want more. You’ve completely broken the man.

You pushed his back down on your bed and got on top of him. Your dress rode up to your waist, exposing your cunt to him. His hands immediately traveled to your hips as you aligned your entrance with his cock.

You slowly pushed yourself down on his cock, down to his balls. He stretched you out and he shuddered as he felt your tight pussy pulsate against his needy cock. His mind was clouded with lust and all he wanted right now was for you to fuck him dumb.

You slowly began to move your hips in a forward and backward motion, starting off easy at first so both of you could get used to it. Leon rolled his head back and closed his eyes tightly shut as he felt you ride him.

You slowly began to lift yourself up and then bring yourself down. He also began to buckle his hips to thrust into you, your velvety walls felt so good against his cock and he only wanted more. So, with his strong grip, he began to move you. He picked you up and then brought you back down with force. This time, you were the one being fucked dumb.

Your hands traveled to his shoulders as he fucked into you from under you. Your nails clawing at his dress shirt as you moaned messily. Your whimpers only caused him to go harder and faster. His grip on your hips would sure leave a mark but you didn’t care. He let go with one hand and pulled down the straps of your dress to expose your bouncing breasts. You weren’t wearing any bra or pasties, what a dirty little slut. He smirked as he watched your tits bounce as he moved you up and down on his cock with brute force. His head bruising your cervix and hitting your g-spot all at once. It felt amazing. You rolled your eyes back as you arched your back.

He knew you were close when your moans and whimpers began to cut short by your breaths. You were a mess. Your makeup ran down your face as your hair was disheveled. Sweat running down your body as his own sweaty forehead caused his hair to glue down to his skin. He grunted as he felt your pussy clench and throb against his cock. He had to pause for a moment as he felt you come down on him. Your juices spilling down to his balls to your bedsheets.

Once he gathered his breath, he continued to fuck you. This time, he rolled you over to your back and pressed you in a mating press- pressing your thighs to your chest as he held your legs apart and down to your body. He stuffed his cock in and out harshly as he chased his own release. You rolled your head back and closed your eyes as you felt his fuck you even harder. The headboard of your head clashing against the wall as he used his muscles to fuck you harder and harder.

He felt his own cock throb inside you and without notice, he had came inside of you. His sticky essence covering your pink walls, claiming your pussy as his. He pushed himself in as he spurted every last drop into your womb and cervix. He needed to make you understand that no one would fuck you like he would.

He remained inside you for a moment as he stared down at your messy appearance- to which he found hot and felt like he could go for a second round. If only he was younger, because he would’ve fucked you until the morning.

He slowly pulled out of you and watched as his cum ooze slowly out of your clenching pussy to your ass. Cum staining your bedsheets as evidence of what the two of you had done. He dropped down beside you as he stared up at ceiling. He then turned to look at you.

He couldn’t help but admire your beauty. If you’d told him that he would be down bad for one of his students, he would’ve told you that you were crazy. And yet, here he was. Laying next to the girl he’d give everything to.

With a goofy grin, he spoke in a soft and playful tone, “Again?” You chuckled and opened your eyes to look at him,

“Again.”

[lovelynicho]

"So let's go see the stars"

Pairing: boyfriend!Taesan x gn!reader

Genre: fluff, little suggestive at the end

Warnings: making out in public; not proofread (lmk if I made mistakes)

Note: this has been in my mind since forever, I decided to finally write it down; it's not a request again, so sorry for that TT; english is not my first language I apologize for any mistakes

Masterlist

It was really late. You didn't know the exact time but it was definitely late. The sky is in its darkest phase, the only things that are lighting it are the little stars everywhere where you can look and the beautiful moon that has just started waning. You were on the hood of the car, laying back, Taesan on your left, laying centimetres from you, a blanket creating a soft place for both of your heads. Your pinky is tangled in his softly as both of you were just staring at the sky, momentarily taking glances at each other.

You didn't even know what you were still doing here. You went out for a car ride to watch the sunset at a good spot where the scenery is so beautiful you couldn't imagine any better. But after the sun went down the two of you decided to lay down and stargaze just for a few minutes. But those minutes turned into more and more until hours passed and you were still there. Laying on the hood of the car, too afraid to move your legs as to not cause any damage to the vehicle but still feeling comfortable. Comfortable.... because when you're together, you're always comfortable.

But even the beautiful stars and the silent thinking can get boring after some time so you decided to look at something that was even prettier than the night sky: your boyfriend. The way his black hair, that was so similar to the color of the sky, created a contrast with his pale skin was so captivating. His eyes looking straight to the sky only stopping the gazing when he had to close his eyelids for a short moment for a blink. The shape of his nose was the most outstanding as you were staring at his side profile, but you still settled on his slightly parted lips that had this beautiful pink tone and you were sure it would taste amazing if you kissed him.

"Enjoying the view?" A deep voice pulled you out of your thoughts. You noticed that smirk on his lips that clearly meant, he noticed your staring and definitely wanted to tease you about it.

"I couldn't help, you looked too pretty under the sky" your answer seemed to satisfy him because when you finished the sentence his smirk grew into a grin that was clearly a sign of happiness.

You looked into his eyes. So full of love. You don't think anyone has ever looked at you the way he looks at you. Those dark eyes were shining, they were even more mesmerising than the stars above you. And you don't think you have ever looked at anyone else the way you look at him, when you can feel your heartbeat in your chest and millions of butterflies in your stomach.

You loved these moments. When words weren't needed. When it was just the two of you sharing silent love. You noticed his glances at your lips right before he started to lean closer to you. Soon he closed the space between the two of you. His lips felt amazing on yours, tasting as good as you imagined before. Every single kiss with Taesan was special somehow. Maybe it was the way he gently caressed your face or waist, or maybe it was just a feeling only he could make you feel. But it was special.

Soon he broke the kiss sitting up right before he stood up to get in front of you. You tought that was the end of the night out here so you got ready to leave the hood of the car yourself, but he stopped you when you were still sitting on it.

"Stay there" he whispered so quietly you were sure that if you were just a few centimetres further from him you wouldn't even be able to hear his words. But you did what he said, you just kept sitting on the car, curious about what his plans were.

Those plans weren't so hidden for long, only for a few seconds before he put his soft lips against yours again. Moving them slowly and gently at first, but soon they got stronger. He bit softly in your lower lip and as a result you opened your mouth allowing his tounge in your mouth. The kiss that started so slow and soft turned into a passionate make out session very soon. You opened your legs so he could stand between them to get even closer to you. His hands on your waist drawing circles on the skin under your shirt while your hands were grabbing his hair making him growl into the kiss.

You don't know how long that make out session lasted. It was long. But how could you stop when he tastes so good, when he knows exactly what to do with his hands and lips and what words to whisper against your lips? "Shall we go home?" He asked. You can't just keep making out in public afterall. So you gave him a nod, excited to continue what you started the moment you step into the apartment.

[codo17]

Stars Aligned

**I was inspired by the solar eclipse. It was my first time and probably last time experiencing it and it was everything! This is my first story so I hope you like it. English is not my first language so please do correct me if there's anything wrong. <3**

-> ~750 word

-> fluff

Today, April 8th, 2024, was destined to be a day etched into the tapestry of your shared history—a moment of cosmic significance that stirred excitement across North America. But for you and Jessie, it wasn't just about witnessing a total solar eclipse; it was about experiencing it together, sharing a bond that transcended mere scientific curiosity.

Since childhood, the mysteries of the cosmos had held you captive. From your early days crafting makeshift telescopes to the late-night stargazing sessions, there was an undeniable pull toward the heavens above. The infinite knowledge contained within trillions of light-years had always filled you with a sense of wonder and awe, making you feel simultaneously insignificant and connected to something greater than yourself.

Of course, you'd always dreamed of finding someone with whom you could share this passion—a kindred spirit who would listen to your ramblings about the Andromeda Galaxy and the Kuiper Belt with genuine interest. Someone who gave you the same heart palpitations and goofy smile that perseids did. And then, Jessie entered your orbit—a radiant burst of light in your universe.

Meeting during your college days at UCLA, she defied engineering student stereotypes with her intelligence, charm, and warmth. There was an instant connection, a gravitational pull drawing you together like celestial bodies in motion. You bonded over shared interests in Tim Horton's, Sidney Crosby, sustainable farming, and football, finding comfort and joy in each other's company.

As your friendship with Jessie blossomed into love, it felt like discovering a new constellation—a beautiful alignment of hearts and minds. Study sessions transformed into late nights spent under the star-studded sky, fingers entwined as you traced the paths of shooting stars, sharing dreams and fears in the quiet darkness.

Seven years had passed since those early days, but the magic between you remained as potent as ever. Jessie's beauty wasn't just in her freckled face or twinkling brown eyes; it was in the way she laughed, the way she listened, the way she made you feel like you were the center of her universe.

As the solar eclipse approached, you couldn't imagine experiencing it with anyone but Jessie. Together, you made plans to witness the celestial spectacle—a rare moment of cosmic harmony that promised to be nothing short of breathtaking.

Standing side by side, the air crackled with anticipation as the moon began its slow dance across the sun's fiery surface. Jessie's hand found yours in the darkness, fingers intertwining as you both watched in awe.

"It's incredible," Jessie whispered, her voice barely audible above the thrum of excitement. You stole a glance at her, struck once again by her beauty and the depth of her gaze.

Your heart swelled with emotion as you watched the eclipse unfold, feeling a sense of wonder and insignificance wash over you. It was as if the universe had paused just for the two of you, a moment of perfect alignment in an otherwise chaotic world.

As the eclipse reached its peak, you turned to Jessie, her face illuminated by the otherworldly glow. "I feel so small but so in sync with the whole Universe at the same time... I don't know how to describe it, it's just uniquely perfect."

Jessie nodded, her eyes reflecting the fading remnants of the eclipse. "It's like we're a tiny part of something so much bigger, yet connected to it in a way that's hard to put into words."

"I think you've said it all," you replied, grateful for her understanding.

As the eclipse waned and the world returned to normal, you felt a surge of love and gratitude for the woman by your side. Cupping her face in your hands, you leaned in to press a tender kiss to her lips, savoring the warmth and sweetness of the moment.

"I love you so much, Jessie," you whispered, your voice filled with emotion.

Jessie's cheeks flushed with emotion as she met your gaze. "I love you too, as big as the whole world, y/n." She wrapped her arms around you, pulling you close in a tight embrace.

And in that moment, as the last traces of the eclipse faded into the sky, you knew that your love for each other was as boundless as the universe itself. With Jessie by your side, you felt ready to face whatever challenges the future might hold, knowing that together, you could weather any storm.

As you both basked in the afterglow of the eclipse, the sky gradually regained its familiar hue, and the world resumed its normal rhythm. But the experience had left an indelible mark on your hearts, strengthening the bond between you in ways words could never fully capture.

[girl-in-the-chairs-void]

Oh, Sweetheart...

Jake 'Hangman' Seresin x fem!reader

Summary: Jake's roommate wants to go watch the sunrise, but he has other plans for the morning.

Warnings: 18+ MINORS DNI, this is basically porn, there is a small section that isn't filth at the start but the rest is just... yeah,fluff, size kink, solved sexual tension, oral sex (m and f receiving because reader is like that), p in v, unprotected sex (they are at it raw, so wrap it before you tap it!), slightly dry humping?, pet names, dirty talk, daddy kink, hair pulling, mentions of spit and saliva, overall this is the filthiest thing I've ever written, no use of y/n (?) I think there is an allusion of squirting but I'm pretty sure its just creampie...

word count: 4.1K of porn

A/n: this is my first piece of smut, so please be nice. also English isn't my first language so bear in mind there may be spelling mistakes.

“Jake, Jake, Jake” Dragging out the last of the vowels in his name, you ran into the man’s bedroom. Singing his name in joy and excitement. 

Jake groaned, rolling over to grab the pillow beside him and covering his ears with it to block out your deafening calls. But immediately regrets doing so because the second the pillow is onto his ear; you snatch it out of his grasp and pin him under you. 

“Ughh..go away.” he spoke groggily, annoyance lacing his voice as he tried to figure out the time of day that would have caused you to scream like this. 

Nope…you are like this everyday. 

He peels his eyes open to find not a single ray of light outside his window, only navy blue skies with stars like dusted sugar. The moon is still in tow, perched up in the sky, shining, glowing its way into the room. He could make out a few birds chirping outside through the closed window. Singing their morning songs before the sun woke up.  A soft breeze pouring into the room, rustling the white curtains. 

He slowly rubs the sleep out of them in order to get a better look at your joyous self. Immediately softening his gaze as they settle on you. 

“Sweetheart, it's not even morning yet, what are you doing here?” He slept naked in his bed, only a pair of boxers covering him. His chest was covered in a thin sheen of sweat from the heat.

His hands move to your hips in an attempt to keep you from crushing his pelvic where you sat snug, straddling him. Bare legs on either side, the cotton of your underwear sneaking into his eyesight from under the shirt you were wearing. Your hands immediately intercept their way into his palms, threading your fingers through them until they are joined like a prayer, pinning them on either side of his head. 

He is more than surprised by your sudden actions. Eyes wide, mouth parted: he yelps at your behavior, taking in a few deep breaths as he feels hot crimson start to creep up his chest. 

“Let’s go watch the sunrise,” you begin before a yawn has weaved its way through your throat, letting go of one of his hands as you cover your mouth with the back of it, “on the rooftop?” 

“The rooftop, huh?” he smiled, eyes lazily scanning over your shirt clad figure, his shirt… Heavy lidded eyes blinked pleadingly in his direction, a small pout forming at your lips as you sat further on him; grinding yourself just a little over his crotch. A little friction never hurts anybody…

“Please, Jake…”

He muffled a groan at the feeling of you against him, closing his eyes as he took a deep breath. His hands were out of your grasp in an instant. You let out a gasp as his hands found their way back to your hips and flipped you onto the bed, your legs on either side of his torso. 

“‘I can think of a few things we can do before the sun is up.” 

His hands move to your sides, squeezing the tender flesh then moving to your thighs, running his hands up and down them, softly caressing the warm skin. His touch is freezing against you. Cold fingers crawling their way into your inner thighs. 

“Oh, sweetheart..”

You let out a shaky breath, whimpering as his eyes met yours as you looked up. Hands instinctively raise to tangle themselves in his hair, wrapping around the back of his neck as you toyed with the ends. You looked at him, pleading. Brows knit together as you tried to reach his lips, but he turned, meeting the stubble of his cheek, rough against your lips. 

“Is this okay?” 

Your mind was nowhere to be found. Thoughts all over the place that you didn’t even register his words, only nodding dumbly to his question. 

His pupils are blown, the shade of green you admire so much is long gone, replaced by a dark look. 

“Tell me what you want, baby.” 

You reach for him again. Desperate to feel his lips on yours, but he persists. Never letting you latch onto them. 

“Meanie,” your head falls back on the pillow in defeat, needy whines falling off your lips as you hear him chuckle.

“You’re playing a dangerous game here, darlin’”

His gaze is all over you from where he is propped, a hand on the side of your head to keep him up, the other lost between the soft dough of your thighs. 

He tries to recall the time when you two became…this. Whatever this was. A drunken night that both of you never regretted…but were too scared to commit to. 

“That was a one time thing,” was something you both had agreed on. 

He’d love to take you out though. On a date, a picnic on the beach, somewhere that doesn’t end with you two in his bed at the end of the night, skin to skin, falling apart. He loves it, don’t get him wrong, but he hoped that you two were simpler than this sticky mess that came with being roommates. 

You search for his hand that was exploring your legs, dragging it up your thighs, to between your legs. His eyes widen just a little as his fingers make contact with the damp cotton. Your mouth parts at the touch. Letting go of his wrist, you shift, sitting up against the headboard, his hand following your cunt like a magnet. 

There is a smirk on your face. There is no doubt that Jake is wide awake, knowing of the soft mummering roommate that was begging a second ago is gone. Replaced by a siren, sharp and cunning as a knife. He wished you were like this all the time. That you wouldn’t hide yourself in the back of a party with your drink. 

But a part of him was glad that you were only like this with him. Jake Seresin didn’t like to share, and you were no exception. 

“Tell me what you want, darlin’,” he breathes, inching closer so you feel his breath down your neck, warm lips just below your ear. 

Your breath hitches, heart stutters at the nickname as a breeze passes you by, shivering. It makes you clench around nothing. Thighs closing their way in to create some friction, but the thick of his fingers latch onto them before you could, refraining you from doing so. 

“Keep ‘em open for me,” he orders, soft. Peppering small kisses down the column of your neck. 

He hasn't even kissed you, yet all you can do is whimper and groan softly. 

“Wanna feel you inside me, now. Wanna feel your mouth, your cock, your fingers.” 

The lopsided grin on his face is intoxicating, his head dips into your collarbone as he lets out a laugh. 

“Such dirty words for a sweet mouth like yours,” he humors, but there is nothing humorous about it. His eyes, dark as ever in the dim moonlight pouring in from the window. 

“Let me give you a reason to stay in bed.” 

it’s dizzying how quickly he can make you fall apart. He hasn’t even touched you yet but a whimper falls from your pretty lips as his latch onto your neck. Making their way down to your collarbone until he hits the collar of your his shirt. 

You tug at the fabric. Sitting up, sliding it up to your chest as you lock eyes with him, giving him a smirk. You tear it off yourself teasingly slowly. Hearing him take a deep breath just as the fabric reveals your bare chest. 

“Christ…you are beautiful.” It’s never failed to make you blush. He throws the compliment like it’s not meant to pierce through your heart and make it burst into flames. Saying it with such care, and softness that it makes you want to melt in the mattress. 

You grab onto his shoulder, leveling yourself with him. Letting out a shaky breath, his hands immediately crave their way into the dip of your waist. Feeling the lush skin, caressing with just the right amount of pressure that has you melting into him. 

He hoists you onto his lap, the sound birds chattering getting louder outside the window. The sky gets a little brighter. You sit snug in his lap, legs either side of his thighs. You let out a moan at the feeling of the hard length of him rubbing against your core as he manhandles you. 

“Jake…” 

“Y-Yes, sweetheart..”

“Kiss m-“ 

You don’t even finish the sentence and his lips anchor onto yours like seabed, dipping in with such intensity that you can’t tell who's taking dominance. The swipe of his tongue caught on top of yours, melting at the taste. relaxing as he digs in for more like a starved man.

You separate with a soft gasp and pop of lips, a string of spit hanging between the two of you, keeping your lips connected. But it’s gone just as quickly as Jake moves down to your jaw. Open mouthed and wet kisses and nipping at each part of your skin with a hunger you have never seen before. He moves to your neck, grazing his teeth at the pulse before his tongue swipes over the blush he had just created, then to your collarbones, kissing each dip of bone and skin until it’s hot and red.

His mouth moves to your breasts, biting softly at the nipple as he takes it in his mouth, swirling his tongue around it that has you making the most obscene sounds, arching your back to push them further into his mouth. 

He lets go of it with a loud pop! Moving on to your other breast to give the hardened nipple some attention. It makes you tug his hair harder, grazing your way to the roots that has him sucking harder. 

His hand has seemed to develop a mind of its own in this time. Latching onto your underwear. His fingers slide down the outside of the damp cotton, the effect of his touch already soaking them. He pushed them aside to feel the stickiness that clings to the fabric in thin strings. 

“All this for me, baby?” He coos, lowering himself to your cunt, blowing a low breath that has you seeing stars. 

You nod mindlessly at the question, he knew the answer to it anyway. But the thought of you being this wet for him makes him dizzy.

“Use your words, sweetheart.” he says, slowly dragging his index and middle finger down your folds. 

“I- Jake…” trailing off as his thumb presses into your clit, circling it until he finds that one nerve, that one spot that has you whimpering.

He makes quick work of you. Throwing the panties somewhere around his room, backing away as you let out a whine. He kisses along the length of your leg, moving closer to your inner thighs, squeezing the tender flesh. It makes you want to run your hands through his hair but he’s too damn far away that you’re left to bootlessly try and relieve the tension by squeezing at your tits.  

His mouth is getting closer now. He nips and bites as he gets closer to the sensitive flesh of your cunt. Breathing it in, he licks a stripe up your folds, doing it with such precision that has you seeing stars. 

It makes you look pathetic, he hasn’t even started and you’re already falling apart on his tongue. 

His saliva sticks thick to you, tongue slowly circling your clit as he brings a hand up to your clenching hole. Your mouth is left wide open, his middle finger inching into you- just a little but the pressure playing at your clit and his teasing makes you grind your hips further into him. Letting out the most obscene sounds. 

“More, please Jake…” 

The chuckle he lets out is criminally menacing. Like his mind is playing a reel of how he is going to make you beg into the morning. Instantly he withdraws the flesh from yours, making you chase after it. 

He brings them to his mouth, slowly putting them in his mouth to suck off the wetness. He doesn’t clean them fully though. Taking them out of his mouth to bring to yours. Your mouth is open wide before he can even command you to do so, letting him press the digits flat onto your tongue as your mouth closes, swirling the muscle around them. 

His cock is growing harder by the second, straining through his boxers as the sight of you, spread out on his bed, fingers in your mouth, it makes him groan. The pain of his throbbing cock is unbearable. 

You notice the pinch of brows in his forehead, his hand that inches towards his boxers to relieve some of that tension. You grab his wrist that is almost there, stopping it from reaching. You drag his hand to your waist, making him hold onto it as you let go. 

He looks at you, puzzled. It's wiped away as you push your hand through the thick band of his boxers, palming him slowly before tugging it out. 

“Hey, are you sure about this? We’ve never done this kinda thing before and I don’t want you to feel obliged-“ 

Your mouth is onto his in an instant, shitting him up as he lets out a ‘umph’. Immediately melting into the kiss, wrapping a hand around the column of your neck, holding it oh so gently. 

You pull away after a moment, smiling adoringly at him. 

“I’m sure, Jakey.” 

He’s big. There was no doubt in your mind that he was big when you first met. The man had an ego the size of Texas and there must have been a reason for that. True to it, you found out he was big. 

The first time the two of you did this, he could barely fit into you, deciding to settle for his mouth rather than trying to fit him. And when you did manage to, after a few more ‘drunken nights’, you could barely walk the next few days. 

You flicked teasingly at the tip of his cock, which made him immediately withdraw his fingers from your mouth as he let out a moan. 

“Fucking Christ, doll” 

You smirk at him, coyly getting on all fours and tugging away his boxers. He lifts his hips to let you take them off, raising an eyebrow at you. But your actions have spoken louder than words and he’s already put the pieces together. 

You stroke it, slow, concise movements, hand sliding his slick up and down the thick of his shaft. Your fingers can barely meet around his girth and the length of him has you watering at the mouth as you bring your face closer to it. He won’t be easy to take in, you know that. But the thought of him spilling in your mouth has been on your mind for days. You thought about it last night too, coming up with the idea of taking him to the roof and taking him there. But this is ten times better than what you had thought. 

You wrap your mouth around the tip of him, tongue flicking that head. The wetness clings to the insides of your mouth, coating the walls of your inner cheeks in a creme white color as you start to take in more of him. You could feel the salty tears burning into your eyes now  You’re barely halfway down him when the tip hits the back of your throat, you gag around him, but the action gets a grumble out of Jake, deep from his chest and you’re sure if you do it again he will fall apart. So, you refrain yourself from doing so, slowly bobbing your head up and down his length. 

“That’s it, baby. Just like that,��� he sighs. His hand comes to rest against the back of your head, guiding your movements. He’s so thick, you’re astonished that you can even fit him in you. 

Your movements turn faster within minutes, the sound of his struggling groans and noises that you’re making, mixed with the wet- almost obscene- sounds of his cock has made you dizzy. You turn your attention away from his happy trail and shift them to look at him. He’s already looking at you, mouth open, pupils blown wide that you can barely make out the greens in it in the dim light. 

You feel him twitch in you, and you know he is near a release. You wrap a hand around the rest of him that you can’t take in, stroking it out at the same speed. 

“Fuck, sweetheart…” 

Your movements stutter as you feel him release inside you. The thick of his cum is warm as it washes your throat and the outside of your neck. Suddenly your mouth is being pulled back from him, making you whine at the loss of contact. Jake pulls your head back gently, his cum still in your mouth as you close your mouth and swallow it loudly.

Jake swears under his breath as you do so, the sight of you, fucked out eyes, a white string of saliva drooling out of your mouth as you look at him with those big doe eyes as you swallow his cum. You look fucking angelic. 

“You still wanna go to the roof, darlin’?” 

The question has your eyes wide, if it were physically possible. 

You clean the side of your drooling mouth with the back of your hand, shaking your head. True, taking him to the roof was something you wanted to do, but that was only part of it. This, sucking him off, making him cum like he does you every night was your real motive. 

“Words, baby,” 

“Wanted you first.”

He almost melts at the hoarseness of your voice. His arm comes to wrap around your waist, pulling you closer to him. Your hand pushes on his chest, making him fall back on his back, flat against the bed. You straddle him, your 

“Wanna ride you, daddy. Can I?” There is something so innocent about your eyes that he’s never seen before. Sweet doe eyes of a swan; he was enchanted by their beauty when you first met, still to this day it never failed to make him go feral. 

The nickname isn’t so foreign to him though. But the way the request falls out of your pretty lips, covered in a sheen of his cum like your vanilla lip gloss has him going hard again. And you feel him, the thickening of him against your already wet core. 

“Fuck, doll, you wanna ride daddy?” 

You nod, hands spread on his chest as you lean down, breathing your way down his neck, leaving sweet kisses as you make your way up to his lips. 

“Please?” 

He doesn’t give you an answer, rather choosing to bring his hand to your soaking cunt that hovers over his cock. Circling your clit, it makes you moan the most pornographic sounds he has ever heard. You’re so sensitive and fragile under his touch. He can feel the pulse dripping down to your pussy. Feel it pulse against his fingers as he coracles them. 

Your own hand comes down to meet his, lining his cock with your hole as you sink down slowly. The pain is familiar and god does it feel good to have him in you. You can feel it tearing your walls with a sweet stretch. 

He lets out strangled grunts, hand at your hip, the other circling your clit the same, overstimulating you before you can even get a full taste of him in you. 

“Jake, please, please don’t stop, you fill me up so good.” The filthy words are breathlessly falling out of your lips. 

He guides your hips deeper until your pelvic brushes against his happy trail. You’re sitting snug on him, not making a move as a mechanism to adjust to him. His movements that were abusing your swollen clit just a second ago have stopped, his legs are bent to support your back, open wide. 

Slowly, you start to bounce, moving up and down the length of him and the pain is soon replaced by pleasure. The sound of skin slapping is the only thing bouncing off the walls of the room as it fills with the sun's morning rays. 

Your movements continue their way, moving faster with each stroke inside you, you’re clenching around him, squeezing his cock as praises fall off his lips like prayers; “you’re so good f’me baby”, “gonna fill you up so nice you’ll be soaking for days”,”that’s it sweetheart, there you go, make those pretty sounds for me.”

It’s dizzying how the simplest of words have you making the most sinful sounds, his grunts and moans are stifled but he isn’t doing much better either as you feel his cock twitch wildly in you, coating your walls. It’s all too much. His hands on you, his fingers that are assaulting your clit at scandalous speeds. You feel yourself too over the edge, hands running down his chest as you bend down to lock your lips in a hurry, kissing him stupid. 

The hand at your hip is now wrapped around your throat, he knows you like it. But the way he ever so gently squeezes the column of your throat makes you spill moans into his mouth until you don’t know whose spit is whose. His tongue is teasingly wide in your mouth, tasting himself. 

“Jake, I’m-“

“It’s okay baby, go ahead,” 

You’re spilling. It’s everywhere, dripping down your thighs. He’s in you, fits in you so well that you’re sure he was made for it. You let out a muffled scream against his mouth, pulling out of him then thrusting back in immediately. That’s his last straw and he’s spilling in you. The wet sounds of your skin slows as you both pull away, catching your breaths while he’s still buried deep inside you. Your gummy walls are squeezing rapidly around him even now. You scold yourself for not doing those pelvic exercises because now you’re leaking uncontrollably onto his sheets and staining them. 

You let out a curse, already moving to get off him but his hands ground you back on him, refraining you from moving. 

“Don’t,” he lets out a soft grunt, brows pinched as though he is in pain and you realize it would hurt the both of you if you were to pull out immediately after an orgasm. “Let me help ya’.”

He flips the two of you carefully, settling you on your back, avoiding any cause of friction that would further your overstimulation. He knows every inch of you, knows how sensitive you get after sex. 

He slowly pulls out of you, making both of you let out a groan. The sheets are a mess, gray sheets covered in a sheen of white, it’s filthy. But Jake’s hand comes to rest on your jaw and you forget about the mess you’re in. 

“Let me clean you up, yeah?” 

You nod silently, shifting onto your elbows to rest against the headboard as Jake comes back with a wet towel. 

“This might sting a little, alright?” 

“Okay,” 

His fingers are working softly against your flesh, cleaning the tender skin that’s covered in his cum. He smells of sandalwood and sex. You don’t know whether you want to kiss him silly or fall asleep to it. But he senses your gaze on him, looking at him softly when his eyes meet yours, he smiles, throws the towel in the corner of the room and pulls you into a searing kiss. 

It’s anything but rushed. Soft lips against the taste of him, there are fireworks blasting in your mind, your tummy doing somersaults. He never kissed you with such…intensity before. All the ones before were rushed, sloppy, filled with lust but this…this is different. His loss holds such promise for a better morning that you’re sure you want this so be something more than casual hookups. 

But you don’t bring it up now. This is a moment too good to be ruined. 

You pull away first, taking a deep breath, all you can smell is him, it’s all over you. The smile on his face is intoxicating. You’re happy, he’s happy.

“I still wanna watch the sunrise though” 

“You little-“

God, you wish you could have these mornings forever. 

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[sergeantelvis]

"I'm Sorry"

SUMMARY: After following Elvis throughout his career and being there for him, he seems to forget what's most important... you.

warning: ANGST, hurt to comfort?, shouting, miscommunication, insecurity.

A/N: This is my first ever post on Tumblr I've been on here a while so I thought why not give a shot at writing, please keep in mind English isn't my first language :)

Pairing: Elvis x reader (can also be Austin elvis!)

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As the sun set over Memphis, the vibrant city whispered tales of heartache and passion. Among the countless souls navigating the streets, a young woman could be found strolling the dimly lit pathways with what seemed to be a small frown perched upon her face.

That woman also happened to be one of the worlds most talked about people in this current moment, yet she felt like she was the only one talking and no one was listening. That woman was who teenage girls could only dream to be, yet she didn't want to be herself in the very moment. Why would she?

Today was supposed to be different she told herself, he would actually remember, she really tried to believe her own husband would be there to support her during one of the biggest achievements of her life, just like she had done for him the last seventeen years. You see she had been there for him through all walks of life, since he was a tiny little blonde haired ray-of-sunshine and when he dyed his hair black and decided to switch up his style, she was there. And he couldn't even show up for one stupid court-case?

God she felt pathetic, she knew he wouldn't come, so why did she think this time it would be any different. But what could she do? She was Mrs Presley, and thats all people would see her as. As she walked along she moonlit streets she became more wary that she had been pushed aside by her husband, she had made a fool of herself letting him walk around with his wedding band off and acting like a single man with women surrounding him. People warned her about marrying Elvis but she would never listen to them because he was her Elvis and no one knew him like she did, and for a while that was true... until it wasn't.

Her beautiful Navy suit had been especially picked out for this trail, hoping that people would see her, hoping that He would see her. Thoughts swirled in her mind as she tried to process why she had let herself go so far as to have to beg for his attention, she was not some groupie he had picked up from his concerts or some teenaged fan that adored his music, she was his wife.

And she had enough.

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The night air clung to her like a heavy shroud as she approached the hallowed gates of Graceland. The moon hung low in the sky, casting a pale glow over the sprawling estate that had once been her sanctuary. But tonight, it felt more like a prison.

The grand entrance of Graceland loomed ahead of her, its ornate ironwork giving way to a long, winding driveway. As she ventured further in her green Beatle, the faint sound of music reached her ears, weaving its way through the evening breeze. Laughter, muffled and distant, hinted at a revelry she was not a part of.

Stepping across the threshold she had first hesitated towards, she entered the foyer. Dimly lit chandeliers bathed the room in a warm, golden glow, casting intricate patterns onto the polished marble floor. The air was thick with the mingling scents of expensive perfume and the anticipation of a vibrant gathering, yet it only deepened her pit of despair that was building inside of her.

Through the open doorways, she glimpsed the living room, ablaze with colour and movement. Lavish gold accented decorations adorned the walls, reflecting the vibrancy of the party within. The room seemed pulse with energy, the laughter and voices of the guests hanging in the air like an invisible veil.

In the midst of the festivities, Elvis stood at the centre, a star among the crowd. His charismatic smile drew people to him, their adoration evident in their eyes, but as her own guys met his, he remained transfixed by the merriment, not even batting an eyelid in her direction.

Her heart sank the steps, becoming slow and weighted with the sorrow she could no longer bear. She carved attention, his understanding of this passing sea of celebration. She appeared to be nothing more than a ghost existing in the peripheral of his attentions.

There, at the centre of the circle of vibrant guested, Elvis, his charm radiating like an Ethereal light. He was locked in at dance of words with a fan Her face flashed with the light basked on his attention. She observed the ease with which he engaged in stranger, his smile more genuine than she had seen in months.

The woman's voice, light and melodious, carrying hints of infatuation as she flirted shamelessly with Elvis. Hello, after accompanied by the soft music in the background seem to melt with the rhythm of his wife's own shattered heart. She could hardly fathom have someone. He didn't even know how to more sway over him, and she is devoted wife.

As she watched her husband, his eyes, twinkling with amusement, she felt an indescribable pain gnaw at her chest. She had dedicated her life to him, bent over backwards to keep their love and life. I need to find herself reduced to an inconsequential presences.

As she leaned against the wall, her tears subsiding, but her pain still palpable. Elvis's eyes flicker towards her. His eyes lingered for a moment before realisation, dawned on him, and with Swift footsteps, he crossed the room to reach her side.

"Hey, baby," He drawled, attempting to dismiss the intensity of the scene, she had just witnessed. His voice infused, with a southern twang still sent shivers down the spine, had once been the balm to her weary soul, but now it only served as a reminder of the golf at grown between.

Her eyes, once filled with love and admiration, now held a mix of sadness and anger. She took a deep breath, collecting the fragments of her resolve, before confront the man she had given her heart to all those years ago.

"You've missed my court case, my own battles and achievements, all while you were caught up in this whirlwind of adoration from strangers," She finally blurted out.

Elvis blinked, his azure eyes mirroring the confusion in his voice. "Satnin? Why didn't you say anything?" He cooed, attempting to soothe her. "You know I've got a lot on my plate."

The word "Satnin" would have once brought a smile to her face, an endearment she cherished, due to Elvis's late mother Gladys who was her second mother growing up in the small area of Tupelo. She shook her head, causing her locks to cascade around her like a waterfall of frustration.

"How can you think we are okay?" She exclaimed, her voice quivering. "

"Elvis, I can't help but feel pushed aside. It's not just about this one encounter; it's about so much more. You've missed my court case, countless family dinners, and it feels like our connection has dwindled to empty conversations. I've been left here, alone, while you bask in the adoration of fans."

Elvis's brow furrowed in confusion as he attempted to grasp the gravity of her words. He had been so immersed in his own world that he failed to recognize the depth of her emotional turmoil. "Satnin, I didn't realize you were feeling this way. I've just been caught up in the whirlwind of fame. Ya know it's not personal, right?"

y/n's frustration simmered beneath her surface, threatening to erupt like a dormant volcano. "How can it not feel personal, Elvis? We used to be each other's entire world. Now, I'm just an accessory on the fringes of your life while you play the role of the adored superstar."

Elvis's eyes widened, a mixture of surprise and offense clouding his features. He tried to interject, but her pent-up emotions poured out like a torrential rainstorm, unable to be contained any longer.

"You think this is all about my support? It's not about that, Elvis! It's about feeling invisible, unappreciated, and alone. I've offered my unwavering support, but what have I received in return? Empty promises and missed moments. Is this how our love is supposed to be?"

A flicker of realization darted across Elvis's face, but his natural stubbornness lingered. "Satnin, I've been trying my best, but I can't be in two places at once. This music, these fans, they're a part of me. You knew that when we got married."

Her voice reached a crescendo, her frayed patience snapping under the weight of Elvis's dismissive attitude. "I didn't expect you to choose, Elvis. But I did anticipate that you would make an effort to make me feel like a priority in your life. Instead, I feel like I'm a distant second to the screaming crowds that cheer you on night after night."

Elvis, his patience waning, raised his voice in frustration. "Listen, baby, I have responsibilities, commitments. This is the life I've chosen. Can't you understand that?"

She gritted her teeth, her frustration boiling over. "Understand? I understand that you're using your fame as an excuse to neglect your responsibilities as a husband. You blame me for not understanding, but what about the countless nights I've spent alone, waiting for you? What about the promises you've made and broken?"

Elvis's expression turned defensive, his charm morphing into frustration. "You're being unreasonable, Y/N. I can't be at your beck and call all the time; I have a career to manage."

Y/N's voice trembled with anger. "Unreasonable? You have the audacity to call me unreasonable? All I wanted was a partner, someone who would be there for the important moments, to listen and support me. But you're too wrapped up in your own fame to even notice."

Elvis's obstinacy overshadowed any semblance of understanding. His tone hardened as he lashed out, trying to deflect his own guilt. "Maybe it wouldn't feel so empty if you were more supportive, if you understood the sacrifices I have to make!"

Her patience snapped, her voice resonating with a mix of fury and hurt. "Sacrifices? Where do my sacrifices fit into this equation? I've sacrificed my dreams, my desires, to support you, to be the wife you needed. And all I ask for in return is a fraction of your attention, your time."

Elvis and Y/N stood face to face in their lavish Memphis mansion. The room crackled with tension as their argument escalated, both parties unwilling to back down. Her eyes were brimming with tears, reflecting her hurt and frustration, while Elvis stubbornly refused to see his faults.

"You just don't understand, Y/N! I give you everything, I give you this beautiful home, luxurious cars, and all the fame you could ever want. Why are you so miserable?" Elvis exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief.

Y/n took a deep breath, trembling with the weight of her emotions. She knew this was her moment to speak her truth and reveal the depth of her pain. "Elvis, material possessions and fame aren't enough for me. I want emotional connection, intimacy, and a partner who truly understands me. But lately, it feels like I'm living in your shadow. You're so consumed with yourself that you've forgotten about our marriage."

Elvis's eyes widened, struck by her heartfelt words. For the first time, he began to truly comprehend the gravity of his actions. "But Baby, I don't mean to neglect you. I love you more than anything. How can I make it right?" His voice wavered, a mix of desperation and regret seeping through his words.

Her gaze softened, her love for Elvis still evident despite the pain she felt. "It's not just about apologies, Elvis. It's about changing your behavior, showing me every day that I matter to you. I can't keep living like this, always feeling secondary to your career."

A mixture of guilt and sadness washed over Elvis as he realized the damage he had caused in their marriage. He reached out, gently cupping Y/Ns face in his hands. "Baby, I never intended to hurt you. I know my words haven't always been kind, but you're the center of my world. I'm sorry, sweetheart. I'm truly sorry."

The air hung heavy with silence as she contemplated his words. She searched his eyes, seeking a sign of sincerity. Slowly, she nodded, tears streaming down her cheeks. "Elvis, I want to believe that you mean it, but forgiveness doesn't come easy. We need time to heal, to rebuild the trust that has been shattered."

Elvis nodded, his heart sinking as he realized the consequences of his actions. They moved towards the hallway, away from prying eyes, their voices lowering to whispers. "Mama, please don't leave me. I can't imagine my life without you. I'll do whatever it takes to make things right."

She looked into his eyes, her pain alongside her love for him evident. "Elvis, the road to forgiveness will be long and arduous. I need you to understand that. It will take more than just words to mend what's been broken. We both have work to do."

Elvis took a trembling breath, feeling the weight of his past mistakes. He gently squeezed her hand, a solemn vow crossing his lips. "I promise you, Satnin, I'll do whatever it takes. I'll be a better husband, a better man. Just please, don't give up on us."

As they stood there, enveloped in the intimacy of their private moment, Elvis and Y/N knew that the journey ahead would not be easy. But their love, their shared history, and the desire to rebuild what was lost provided a glimmer of hope. Their path to healing had just begun, one step at a time.

･♪’ﾟ｡.*#:･’ﾟ.:*♪:･’.:♪*:･’ﾟ♭.:*♪*:･’ﾟ♭.:*･♪’ﾟ｡.*#:･’ﾟ.:*♪:･’.:♪*:･

A/N: I got a bit carried away! But I'm also looking to make more friends in the Tumblr/Elvis community and would love to follow people or have proofreaders :) thank you <33

[berryblooo]

Mona, Albedo, and Wanderer: Truth-Seekers & Defiers of Fate

Cross-posting from HoYoLAB.

What do an alchemist, an astrologist, and a wanderer have in common?

A lot, as it turns out, in terms of design, literary themes, and lore implications.

Allow me to connect seemingly unrelated dots between these three characters. Perhaps by the end of this you too will be eagerly anticipating an event or quest that features all three some day.

Scholars

Albedo is a genius alchemist, working for the Knights of Favonius as Mondstadt's Chief Alchemist. His knowledge in alchemy goes beyond what even the Sumeru Akademiya possesses, the Art of Khemia from Khaenri'ah.

Mona is a genius astrologist and one of the few practitioners of Hydromancy. Her reputation as an astrologer led to her being asked to take on the All Things Astrological column in Fontaine's newsletter, The Steambird. Her work is revered in the Rtawahist Darshan at the Sumeru Akademiya.

Wanderer, known as ‘Hat Guy’ among the students of the Vahumana Darshan, has become an ad-hoc student of theirs after his papers refuting the popular academic theories surrounding the Tartarsuna incident became popular. He later wrote pieces about Inazuman politics that garnered acclaim. Apparently having a knack for academia, he’s been invited to Vahumana lectures and was able to serve as its representative in the Akademiya Showdown.

Appreciators of the Arts

Albedo is an artist, who has illustrated A Legend of Sword books under the pseudonym Calx and was invited to Inazuma during the Irodori Festival held after the nation opened its borders to illustrate the Five Kasen paintings.

Mona enjoys singing and does so while stargazing. During the 2.8 Summertime Odyssey event, she accepts Xinyan's offer to give her voice lessons.

During his time as Kabukimono living at the Mikage Furnace, he learned how to sword dance and would perform alongside the other blacksmiths. His talents and their excerpts, constellation, and namecard reference theater and poetry, which may indicate his interest in those arts.

The Sun, Moon, and Stars

The Geo construct Albedo creates is called the Solar Isotoma, and his 3rd Constellation is titled "Grace of Helios".

Albedo's namecard is titled "Sun Blossom".

Albedo's splash art and Solar Isotoma design features flower and sun-like imagery.

The name, Mona, means "Moon" in Old English.

Her redesigned outfit is titled "Pact of Stars and Moon" and features crescent moon pendants on her hat and leg.

The eight-pointed star on the pendants has likely influence from the Star of Ishtar, the inspiration for Teyvat's Istaroth, who may have some connection to the three moon sisters.

Her 2nd constellation is titled "Lunar Chain".

Mona's namecard is titled "Starry Sky".

Naturally, as an astrologist, she also has countless star-related symbolism which are fairly obvious.

Two of Wanderer's constellations have moon-related names. His 2nd constellation is "Niban: Moonlit Isle Amidst White Waves" and his 3rd constellation is "Sanban: Moonflower Kusemai".

Interestingly, Wanderer's splash art is different from most other Anemo characters in that the elements surrounding him are more black and navy than turquoise, and features a galaxy and star design.

What defines a human?

Albedo and Scaramouche are both artificial beings, homunculus and puppet respectively.

Albedo was created by his mother, Rhinedottir, using an ancient technique from Khaenri'ah called Khemia. He was part of her Primordial Human project and was the last of her (known) creations, considered her magnum opus. The only evidence of his being a creation is the pontil mark she left on the front of his throat, his one "imperfection" that makes him human. Rhinedottir considers him her son and only child left.

Wanderer was created by his mother, Ei, using an ancient technique now lost. It's implied Irminsul was used in his creation. He was the prototype puppet made for the purpose of storing the Electro Gnosis, but was deemed too weak when he cried while storing it and was thus left to sleep in Shakkei Pavilion with only a plume to signify his connection to the Shogun. He bears the Electro symbol on the back of his neck, the complement to Ei's.

It's unknown whether Albedo is immortal or ages differently than humans, while Wanderer has lived for nearly 500 years, created just after Makoto's death during the Cataclysm. He has always appeared as a beautiful young man, never aging.

In Mona's voicelines about other characters, she almost always references their constellations and interprets parts of their fate from them. The only exception is her voiceline about Albedo. It's speculated that the reason Mona doesn't comment on it is that she's aware of him being a homunculus and purposefully does not reveal his secret.

In the same vein, when Mona first meets Scaramouche during Unreconciled Stars, she is immediately able to see through his facade and tell that he is both a Fatui Harbinger and that he had killing intent towards the Traveler. After Mona teleports the group away, Scaramouche himself wonders if she was able to figure out his true identity—which, during 1.1, players take to mean him being a Harbinger. Looking back, it's likely he meant him being a puppet with powers close to Archon level.

Albedo and Wanderer both represent questions about what makes one human, on both a physical and spiritual level.

"The difference between synthetic and natural life lies in the directional flow of the life force. The energy of a natural life form flows out from within. That's why flower buds bloom and curled leaves unfold. It is the very reason we watch in wonder at blossoming flowers. Creating life artificially, on the other hand, involves — to a certain extent — the introduction of an external source of energy into the embryonic life form. When the hole where the life force was infused is sealed at the end, it leaves a mark not dissimilar to the pontil mark in blown glass wares. The alchemical substance drips and spreads out in all directions, resulting in this rather ingenious diamond shape. This mark is a sign of my artificial origins, and proof of my imperfection as a human."

Albedo, Shadows Amidst Snowstorms, Act II: The Shadow Deepens

"But Subject Two wanted to become a perfected human. So, he erased the mark on both his and Subject Three's necks, for these marks were a symbol of imperfection... He so desperately craved to become a perfect human being that he forgot something: Human beings are defined by their flaws."

Albedo, Shadows Amidst Snowstorms, Act III: A Secret Born From Ashes

"As beings who set foot in this world, how arrogant are we in desiring to control our destiny, and in desiring to create?"

Albedo, Shadows Amidst Snowstorms, Act III: A Secret Born From Ashes

Wanderer: In your eyes, are there any differences between humans and puppets? Nahida: Do you think there are any differences between your present self and your previous and future incarnations? If not, then what are the differences between humans and puppets? Whoever has tasted the joys and sorrows of life in the human realm is human. Whoever has loved and lost, cried with grief, howled with rage at the tragedy of death that eclipses the miracle of life... they are human, too. Wanderer: I've always believed that human lives follow a set of rules, with each person being a collection of past experiences. As a puppet living in the human world, my life is subject to the same rules. I've lived with a void in my chest my whole life. My creator didn't need me, and ever since I awoke, I've just drifted from one place to the next. But then I met you, and I finally realized that reclaiming my missing sins might be my one opportunity to become my true self. I've always felt I have an innate tendency to yearn for something more, in a way that goes deeper than for most people... But for all my soul-searching as a shugenja, I've never fully understood it. Looking at it now, it seems that I brought this curse upon myself. So I beg you... grant me this opportunity to gain a purpose. To change my destiny and end my wandering.

Wanderer and Nahida, Interlude Chapter: Act III: Inversion of Genesis - The Kabukimono's Finale

Nahida: To be human is to live with imperfections. You can choose whether or not you want to be human. Wanderer: ...But humans can't live without a heart, can they? Anyway, I gave up trying to become a human a long time ago. Nahida: You understand what pain is perfectly well, even without a heart. You're just burying your feelings. The past is set in stone, but you can keep moving on. And the longer your future lasts, the shorter your past will become, until one day it is but a tiny fraction of your life.

Wanderer and Nahida, Interlude Chapter: Act III: Inversion of Genesis - As Though Morning Dew

We can see the similar themes of questioning what it means to be human, of recognizing and accepting imperfections as a part of their humanity for Albedo and Scaramouche.

How does Mona tie into all this? She isn't an artificial being. (As far as we know.)

Mona's Character Story 5 talks about similar themes, namely human hearts and the laws that (supposedly) govern them.

During her apprenticeship, Mona found that the subtle abstractions of her master's teachings could explain the laws that governed the existence of all things. Human hearts were guided by these laws, and if one had great enough powers of calculation, all the mysteries of the world could be understood. Mona once believed this to be true. But when she had to strike out on her own and live day-to-day, she found herself doubting. Not everyone lived wealthy and comfortable lives. Some neither had food nor warm clothes, living no differently from beggars. And it was just such an adventurer who, when meeting Mona while she was out looking for fruits and vegetables to fill her stomach, shared half their food with her. "Out here, we've gotta have each other's backs." This was not something inscribed on these so-called principles of the world. And many other such things she encountered on her journey — the honesty of a thief, a robber's change of heart, a coward's courage, the good deeds of a wicked person... Mona began to have some doubts, but she also felt like she finally had her feet on solid ground. When she was again alone with her thoughts under the stars, she marveled that her research had been so full of holes. Perhaps she would have to continue researching the world's principles for the rest of her life.

We see these same questions brought up by Wanderer at the start of his journey of repentance.

This story of the adventurer she meets is the same one that Mona references during her mirage in the Summer Odyssey event. She divined that if he continued adventuring, he would meet his death within two years. Despite this, the adventurer continued on. Mona believes him to be dead now, since fate is immutable and that encounter was over three years ago.

It's speculated that this adventurer is none other than Joserf, who gets lost on Dragonspine and does indeed meet his death. Except that during the Shadows Amidst Snowstorms events, Albedo uses a whopperflower to bring new life to "Joserf" and reunite "him" with his son, Joel.

In doing so, is Albedo rewriting fate?

Irminsul, Fate, and the Truth of the World

We know that Irminsul is tied to the fate and truth of Teyvat, and all three characters have ties to these themes.

Mona and Albedo are both apprentices/inheritors of knowledge of Hexenzirkel members: Barbeloth and Rhinedottir. The Hexenzirkel is known to embark on Irminsul explorations (which Albedo accompanied Gold on) and at least two members, Alice and Nicole, are implied to be immune or able to know when Irminsul tampering occurs.

Mona and Albedo share a common goal: to uncover the truth of this world. Albedo was tasked with this by Rhinedottir before her abrupt disappearance after discovering the Heart of Naberius, while it's currently unknown if Mona inherited this goal from Barbeloth or if it's her own.

Both are foreshadowed to incur a dark fate in their pursuit of the truth. In Mona's Collected Miscellany, Dainsleif says, "But beware, O young seeker. You must sacrifice your all to unravel the world's secrets," while Albedo is foreshadowed to lose control of his power or be susceptible to corruption and endanger Mondstadt.

As a student of the Vahumana Darshan, Wanderer studies the truth of history.

During his time as a Fatui Harbinger, Scaramouche was sent on missions to the Abyss by the Fatui, implied to be because of his ability to withstand and recovering from damage/attacks. We know that truly ancient Irminsul is located in the Abyss.

He is implied to be created from Irminsul and can navigate the memories stored within, as seen in Inversion of Genesis.

He tried to rewrite the past/fate by erasing himself from Irminsul but learns that fate cannot be changed. This is a line we hear often in game from none other that Astrologist Mona Megistus.

In the confrontation between Dottore and Nahida in the Akasha Pulses, the Kalpa Flame Rises, we learn that Irminsul hides the secret "truth" that "the sky and stars of Teyvat are fake".

This corroborates what Scaramouche said in Unreconciled Stars: that the stars, the sky are all a gigantic hoax. A lie.

Mona also corroborates what Scaramouche revealed: she said she was taught to talk about the false sky in her readings.

This means both the Fatui and the Hexenzirkel are aware of the false sky.

In Conclusion

Coincidentally (or perhaps not) all three were sent to Mondstadt.

Albedo was instructed by Rhinedottir to seek out Alice in Mondstadt and take up residence there.

Mona ends up in Mondstadt after being sent to retrieve something of Barbeloth's from Alice's successor (Klee) and when she accidentally reads her 50 year old diary, she feels forced to hide in the city lest she incur her master's wrath.

Scaramouche was chosen by Pierro to investigate the meteorites in Unreconciled Stars, and he speculates that the Jester not only knew what he would discover about the false sky, but that he wanted to frighten him with this information.

I believe all of this is building up the three of them meeting, whether as allies or rivals, in connection with the false sky/truth of the world plot. I feel there are too many connections between them for it not to be intentional.

Or it's all copium!

Bonus

Additional tidbits that didn't fit in with the rest.

According to Mona and Klee's voicelines, Albedo and Mona are friends/colleagues and meet regularly for meals and to play with Klee.

In the Irodori Festival, Albedo paints Kuronushi of the Five Kasen based on Scaramouche's likeness, which was only revealed when Hydro was applied to the canvas. Similar to the concept of Hydromany, which divines truth in the reflection of water.

The forging technique passed down from the Raiden Shogun to the Raiden Gokaden incorporates astrology into its process.

Barbeloth, Mona's master, likes hats and helps pick them out for people. (Like Klee, and maybe Mona as well.) She would probably appreciate Wanderer's taste in hats.

[reisakumaproducer]

Moonlight - A Wataru Hibiki x Reader Fic

Warning: This fic is a parody fic and not meant to be taken seriously. I do not recommend reading if you are looking for a serious Wataru x Reader fanfic.

Summary: You are going on your first date with Wataru Hibiki! As you spend time with Wataru, you can't help but worry that the brilliant idol might just be out of your reach. (Takes place during the ! era)

You fidget with a loose strand of your (h/c) hair as you stare out the window. Sunlight poured through the window, illuminating your living room and causing your face to glow brightly. Today was a very special day for you. Today was the day you would meet with Wataru Hibiki. 

Yumenosaki Academy was known for having weirdos and Wataru was no exception. You were just a humble student from the general course when you noticed the idol practicing on the rooftop. His loud voice and imposing stature captivated you, like a siren luring in a sailor. Wataru did not take notice of you at first. He was wrapped in the world of theater, reciting poems and lines that you recognized from your Shakespeare unit in English class. You felt your cheeks blush when he finally noticed you. As you spent time with the theatrical idol, you became close with him. Now you are on your first date with Wataru Hibiki.

It was six o’ clock, and Wataru had not shown up at your front door step yet. You sigh, realizing he probably abandoned you. Then suddenly you hear a loud noise coming from outside of your house. You rush outside, your (h/c) hair blowing furiously in the wind. The wind was coming from a blimp in the air.

“Ahahahahah!” you hear a gleeful laugh coming from the blimp. Your heart skips a beat as you recognize that laugh. “My beloved (y/n) ! It is I, your very own Hibiki Wataru!”

Wataru jumps from the blimp and lands on the ground. He stands up as though nothing happened to him, smiling at you with his hands on his hips. “Fufufu, you should check your right pocket! You will find a pleasant surprise in there from your very own idol! ☆”

You put your hand in your right pocket and pull out a bouquet of red spider lilies. “Oh Wataru! This is lovely. You shouldn’t have.” You smell the bouquet and smile at the pleasant aroma that floods your nostrils. Wataru plucks a flower from the bouquet and places it behind your ear. He bows. 

“Today is the day we embark on a new journey of love! Let us take the first step in this new chapter in our lives.”

A ladder from the blimp descends in front of you. You stifle your laugh, appreciating Wataru’s comedic timing. He takes your hand and guides you toward the ladder. He helps you climb up, your hands shaking as you slowly ascend into the air. Wataru notices your anxiety and sings a calming melody as you climb. You feel a tingling sensation on your cheeks as you realise he is looking out for you.

You get into Wataru’s blimp. He takes your hand and you follow him onto the couch. You both sit down, and he lets you lie on his shoulder as the blimp flies into the evening sky. You rest against his silky hair, letting it sift between your fingers. Wataru strokes your back as you do this, causing you to smile as you look into his lavender eyes.

“Your eyes are so beautiful. I can just swim into them for hours on end,” you tell him. You immediately feel a pang of embarrassment in your stomach. Swim in his eyes? Why would you say that! You don’t even know how to properly swim. Wataru chuckles, ignoring your flustered face.

“Your eyes are like the night sky itself! I can see the reflection in them, like the stars across the darkness. Even clowns can be enamored by your beauty.”

Your cheeks turn red. You lean in for a kiss when suddenly, you notice the lighting in the blimp starts to change. As the sun started to set, the moon started to peak from beneath the clouds, casting its milky rays through the blimp’s window. Wataru’s hair started to glow. It was like it was the moon itself, illuminating the darkness of the blimp. You wanted to play with it again. You want to feel his soft strands brush against your fingertips. Yet Wataru was like the moonlight. No matter how much you wanted to bask in it and have it shine down upon you, you could never have it in your possession. You cannot grab onto moonlight, just like how Wataru’s hair would sift through your fingers if you tried to grab onto it. The moon can comfort you with its light while all you can do is admire it from afar. 

Tears roll down your cheek at this realization. Wataru notices your tears and shakes his head. He uses a strand of his sentient hair to wipe your cheeks. His hair feels soft against your delicate skin.

“Do not cry, my dear (y/n). It is a clown’s job to entertain, and a clown is doing a poor job if their audience is drowning in tears,” Wataru quietly whispers. “Your face is very beautiful in the moonlight.”

Your tears dry. You realize you can reach the moon, even if it feels far away.

Wataru stops the blimp over a forest. He helps you descend the rope ladder. You find yourself in a clearing surrounded by tall pine trees and a pond. There is a wooden arch bridge over the pond and a willow tree casting its leaves over the water. You feel a cool breeze flutter through the area. You take Wataru’s hand, his firm fingers interlocking with yours.

Wataru leads you onto the bridge. Its wooden surface creaks with each step you take. You both admire the moon shining into the water below. You lean against Wataru’s shoulder. 

“Wataru, I’ve been meaning to show you something,” You tell him.

“Fufufu, it is my turn to be surprised! What are you planning on showing me, (y/n)?”

“I have been practicing a poem to recite to you. I want to get better at acting. Would you like to hear it?”

Wataru nods his head. You take a deep breath and recite your love poem for him.

“Oh Wataru my dearest,

You are the fairest.

You are like the Sans 

to my Nagito who dances

With glee with his love

Who fits him like a glove.

Oh Wataru my moon,

You make me swoon

I love you.”

You deliver the poem in a completely monotone voice. Wataru claps his hands and sheds a few tears.

“Amazing! The purest of words from your heart have been delivered. I wish I could return them but atlas, I am not good at acting without a script.”

Wataru then kneels down in front of you and retrieves his mask from his back pocket, as though he was proposing to you. This is the purest form of Wataru’s love for you. You reach out to touch the mask, when suddenly you hear a loud crack.

The wooden boards of the bridge break and you fall into the pond. Wataru uses his sentient hair to reach for you. You grab onto his strands, but his hair sifts through your fingers. You become drenched in the cold pond waters. The moonlight shines above you as you desperately try to tread the water.

[aprilthearcher]

roman roy x reader [blurb]

wordcount: 809

warnings: cuss words, english is not my first language and this is not edited; also, not my pictures. first time writing after a long time and first time writing roman as well, so perhaps he’s a little ooc ? i’m also a huge taylor swift fan and this was written based on “welcome to new york”

The sun was setting down the horizon, painting the sky different shades of blue, orange, and some specs of pink, when the private jet landed from its journey all the way from London to the outskirts of New York City. The stars were going to appear soon; one could see the shining waning crescent moon up there.

There was a company car already waiting for her, which she would’ve thought had been sent by her dad were it not for the man leaning funny against the back door while looking down at his phone. She recognised him too well for her own good even after a couple of years without seeing each other. How could she not when she had spent her whole childhood running around his house, getting yelled at by Logan for making a mess, chastised by her father for making her godfather mad; having sleepovers with his sister that turned out to be sleepovers with him, sharing summer vacations by the side of the pool until Kendall and Connor taught her how to swim. 

The click of her high heels walking down the stairs of the jet seemed to have alerted him of her presence. His eyes went quickly up and down her figure, finally setting on her face. She looked exactly the same yet entirely different at the same time. 

“If it isn't (Y/N) Vernon in the flesh, ladies and gents,” he screamed, bringing both of his arms to his chest and doing some sort of imitation of a reverence. “Did you take the Queen’s place up there in little England? Took control of Buckingham Palace?”

“I was about to, actually”, she said with a small smile on her face and shiny, bright eyes she would never admit were for seeing him after so long, “but then I saw the mess you’ve all gotten yourself into”.

“Look at you, miss ‘I-sound-all-poshy’, you got an accent”.

“No, I don’t,” (Y/N) protested, scrunching up her face.

“Oh, you so totally do”.

“Shut up, Roman,” finally acknowledging him.

“It’s not my fault you sold yourself to the fucking brits, darling,” he said, replicating a butchered british accent of the pet name, while she started walking towards the other side of the vehicle where the chauffeur held the door open for her.

Once they were both inside the car, on their way to Logan’s apartment — her father had told her they would be waiting for her there for some “welcome home” lame party —, (Y/N) took off her heels, then let her head fall against the window to look at the city she had left more than half a decade ago.

When they started to approach the city centre, the sky had turned a deep tone of blue, stars barely visible because of the light pollution now. Her eyes were beginning to feel heavy the moment she heard him speak.

“You know, you should probably sleep a little before you encounter the sharks again after so long”. The sentence was whispered, almost as if he were afraid she’d already fallen asleep. 

“I’m gonna miss the view.” 

Roman snorted at her comment, “What view are you talking about? Tall buildings and, and fucking blinding lights?”

“Maybe I missed the blinding lights.”

“Oh yeah and fucking traffic too.”

“There’s traffic in London too, you know”.

“Of course I know that, you idiot, there’s also fucking blinding lights everywhere in London too, don’t you know that?”

(Y/N) turned her head to face him. She smiled, the expression on her face full of tiredness from the trip. Roman noticed it right away.

“Get some sleep, you baby,” he insisted. “New York is not gonna disappear just because you rest for two fucking minutes”.

The car ride fell silent then. It was nice. It was home. It was undisturbed peace, one they both knew wouldn’t last long; they’d soon be sucked back into the unfiltered chaos it was Waystar and its twisted insides. 

Just before she could fall asleep, (Y/N) managed to croak a question. “Doesn’t it drive you crazy?”.

“What? My family? Yeah, they fucking do”.

She shook her head softly. “Not your family, silly, the city. New York”. (Y/N) looked at him with hooded eyes, Roman had his eyebrows drawn together. 

“Yeah, I - I guess. But now,” he answered with his eyes set on hers only, “now I wouldn’t change anything.”

“Me neither.” She managed to reply with a content smile through the sleepiness. 

“Stop fighting the sleep or you’re gonna keep asking random questions, you weirdo.”

When she didn’t answer, he knew she’d finally taken his advice. Shrugging off his dark, woolen coat, Roman placed it on top of her upper body in an attempt to keep her from getting too cold, perhaps even to protect her against the crumbling ruins of the world outside. 

[ratatatastic]

"you had that kind of backpass that slipped past bobby and then a few moments later you scored" EROD. EROD SWEETIE. STOP LAUGHING. STOP IT. STOP LAUGHING AT YOUR SPOUSE TEAMMATE POOR MIKKSY IS SO RED. STOP IT. PLEASE CAN WE BE SERIOUS HES GONNA ERUPT YOU LEAVE HIM ALONE STOP BEING MEAN roddy you do such a piss poor job to hide your amusement as if your hand can cover that huge ass grin that streches from here to the damn pacific

you cannot block the sun with a single finger...do not hope that your hand masks THE WAY YOU ARE CHEESIN SIR.

mikksy nodding at the "backpass" like yes yes i did do that yeah it- it almost went it. yep. in the finals of the tournament for the hardest trophy to earn. yeah most mortifying moment of my life that will be talked about for the rest of the finals can we please- *succumbs to the mortfying ordeal of having to talk about it to media* yep.

erod keeps chuffing to himself that mikksy keeps glancing at him from the corner of his eye as he tries to focus on the english being said to him i know his ears started burning BAD THEYRE PRACTICALLY RADIATORS (ears so big they become thermoregulators i learned that in natgeo magazine once ☝️) RODDY YOURE SUCH A DISTRACTION BEHAVE. BE NICE.

you know mikksy isnt so big and scary when you have a tiny man next to him laughing at his misfortune as he turns the brightest red known to man that if he stood in the middle of an intersection cars would stop

"i was going...high and lows on that one shift that- well i tried to go d to d pass..." poor mikksy trying to explain his thought process but hes stumbling through it like is the room getting hotter? i think the room is getting hotter- yeah uh d to d pass um yeah is it normal to hear the pulsating in your ears or is that a medical issue i should be worried about- ah no thats just the embarrassment isnt it. ah. yeah that would do it.

and little miss chuckles next to him is not helping at all GIRL HES TRYING TO ANSWER STOP IT

school presentation esque dynamic here... when its your turn to talk but suddenly your bestie erupts into laughter because you opened your mouth and youre like shut up SHUT UP ITS NOT FUNNY. SHUT UP. so youre trudging through it because you need a good preformance grade and just SHUT UP.

"bobby was awake so it was good for us" YES HE WAS guys its okay mikksy was being silly doing a think fast exercise and bobby passed with flying colours we love when our d gives bobby his enrichment time its important to their health as a species

rushing to say "and then the rest was nice." you mean your goal mikksy you mean your AMAZING SNAPSHOT OF A GOAL THAT FIRED UP THE WHOLE TEAM??? THAT WAS NICE YEAH IM SURE IT WAS. im gonna shake him violently please PLEASE IT WAS SUCH A GOOD GOAL IM STILL FEELING THE HIGH OF IT COME ON also roddy looking over while mikksy shrugs off his goal like it was footnote and not a big deal like yeah its nice ig... that goofy grin that damn goofy grin...babe lets try to be a little subtle here...looking at him like he hung the moon and all the stars in the sky ffs

edmonton oilers @ florida panthers game 2 postgame interview | 6.10.24 (x)

and because i love mikksy heres one of the most embarrassing moments of his career forever immortalised you go big guy <3

[mommyofkittens]

Masterlist

A Court of Fallen Heroes ( Azriel FanFiction )

𓆩✴𓆪 Summary 𓆩✴𓆪

It was a well known fact: the veil between the worlds grew thinner and thinner, so the possibility of a crashing was already a certainty. The rumours started a long time ago, but no one did anything to stop it. Luckily, time has passed, we went through wars and race eradications, but Faerie Realms and Mortal Lands stayed almost the same, some richer and some poorer.

Nobody was talking about the fallen, untill now, when the fates started working their old, wicked magic and gave us an early Summer Soltice gift: an unprepared girl who was sent tumbling from the sky.

Tumultuous and dangerous,

Bitter and heartbreaking.

This is the story of the Evening star.

About the young woman who holds the Sun as her weapon,

And the Moon as an ornament.

About the Cursed Crown, who chooses its own master

And about the man in the shadows, irreversibly bound to her, by the tongue of death.

And, after all, about us, the nothingness who catches a goal.

I am the Bloody Blade, former leader of the first legion, last of my kind, banished and tormented by dark memories and here is the beginning of our story.

Read on Ao3. 𓆩✴𓆪

Read on Wattpad. 𓆩✴𓆪

𓆩✴𓆪 Playlist

𓆩✴𓆪 Prologue

𓆩✴𓆪 Chapter 1: 3:33

𓆩✴𓆪 Chapter 2: " God Forbid... "

𓆩✴𓆪 Chapter 3: The Waking World

𓆩✴𓆪 Chapter 4: The Countess

𓆩✴𓆪 Chapter 5: Haunted

𓆩✴𓆪 Chapter 6: Decisions. Part I.

𓆩✴𓆪 Chapter 6: Decisions. Part II.

𓆩✴𓆪 Chapter 7: A Tale of Time

𓆩✴𓆪 Chapter 8: Jane Doe 𓆩✴𓆪 Chapter 9: The Third One 𓆩✴𓆪 Chapter 10: The Bloody Blade

𓆩✴𓆪 Chapter 11: The Vespertus

Hello, everyone! I am new to the writing experince and also English is not my first language. Hopefully, this won't interfere with my work too much. I am sorry if there are mistakes, I'll try to correct them. I didn't give up on this work, but writing one chapter is taking quite some time considering the fact that I always have to check my grammar and if the phrases make sense or if they're too long. Sometimes, when inspiration doesn't come, I write them in my own language and then translate and it takes a while too.

Also, I have exams untill mid July. Med school it's time consuming as hell. 🥲

You can also find me on Ao3 and Wattpad, I always keep my chapters updated and corrected there because it's easier to read them.

Hope you like my work! Have a great day, babes!

[thedepartmentofdiscoveries]

Original French:

Les Métamorphoses du vampire

La femme cependant, de sa bouche de fraise,

En se tordant ainsi qu'un serpent sur la braise,

Et pétrissant ses seins sur le fer de son busc,

Laissait couler ces mots tout imprégnés de musc:

— «Moi, j'ai la lèvre humide, et je sais la science

De perdre au fond d'un lit l'antique conscience.

Je sèche tous les pleurs sur mes seins triomphants,

Et fais rire les vieux du rire des enfants.

Je remplace, pour qui me voit nue et sans voiles,

La lune, le soleil, le ciel et les étoiles!

Je suis, mon cher savant, si docte aux voluptés,

Lorsque j'étouffe un homme en mes bras redoutés,

Ou lorsque j'abandonne aux morsures mon buste,

Timide et libertine, et fragile et robuste,

Que sur ces matelas qui se pâment d'émoi,

Les anges impuissants se damneraient pour moi!»

Quand elle eut de mes os sucé toute la moelle,

Et que languissamment je me tournai vers elle

Pour lui rendre un baiser d'amour, je ne vis plus

Qu'une outre aux flancs gluants, toute pleine de pus!

Je fermai les deux yeux, dans ma froide épouvante,

Et quand je les rouvris à la clarté vivante,

À mes côtés, au lieu du mannequin puissant

Qui semblait avoir fait provision de sang,

Tremblaient confusément des débris de squelette,

Qui d'eux-mêmes rendaient le cri d'une girouette

Ou d'une enseigne, au bout d'une tringle de fer,

Que balance le vent pendant les nuits d'hiver.

— Charles Baudelaire

An English Translation:

Metamorphoses of the Vampire

Meanwhile from her red mouth the woman, in husky tones,

Twisting her body like a serpent upon hot stones

And straining her white breasts from their imprisonment,

Let fall these words, as potent as a heavy scent:

"My lips are moist and yielding, and I know the way

To keep the antique demon of remorse at bay.

All sorrows die upon my bosom. I can make

Old men laugh happily as children for my sake.

For him who sees me naked in my tresses, I

Replace the sun, the moon, and all the stars of the sky!

Believe me, learnèd sir, I am so deeply skilled

That when I wind a lover in my soft arms, and yield

My breasts like two ripe fruits for his devouring — both

Shy and voluptuous, insatiable and loath —

Upon this bed that groans and sighs luxuriously

Even the impotent angels would be damned for me!"

When she had drained me of my very marrow, and cold

And weak, I turned to give her one more kiss — behold,

There at my side was nothing but a hideous

Putrescent thing, all faceless and exuding pus.

I closed my eyes and mercifully swooned till day:

And when I looked at morning for that beast of prey

Who seemed to have replenished her arteries from my own,

The wan, disjointed fragments of a skeleton

Wagged up and down in a lewd posture where she had lain,

Rattling with each convulsion like a weathervane

Or an old sign that creaks upon its bracket, right

Mournfully in the wind upon a winter's night.

— George Dillon, Flowers of Evil (NY: Harper and Brothers, 1936)

fleursdumal.org

[shootingstarrfish]

Curious Lebanese here⭐️

I don't know if you're Arab yourself, but I was really curious about why you went for سدرة (sidra) instead of نجمة (najma)? Is it because Sidra is given as a name more often?

Thought I'd share some fun fact(s) on the word/name too!

Sidra can also mean: constellation - the star shimmering in the sky.

its primary, more reknowned meaning and definition: a (type of) tree that grows in the highest heaven, to the right of god's throne.

And I've got to say that I feel incredibly happy and proud when people choose Arabian names for their children (OCs included, ofc lol) and Arabic vocab/names fanfiction titles!

I won't end my ask without complimeting your MC. They're too cute and I dig their style. But I'm afraid I must refuse the tissues...

hello curious lebanese anon! i am indeed arab as well, which was why i was really set on going with an arabic name :D

but thank you for the question! honestly there isn't a super deep reason, i did actually consider Najma initially cause that was what came to mind first for something star related, but i didn't feel it fit him too well in my head?? i also tossed around Shams (sun) since the sun is also a star and though i ship my mc with other characters as i please, i thought the sun and moon theme would be really cute for him and belphie! but i also didnt think that fit for some reason? but eventually i was gonna suck it up and just go with one of them, but i decided to do a quick search and see if there were any other names, and i came across Sidra and i had one of those "omg this is perfect" moments hahaha

but i really wanted to push myself to give them an arabic name at the very least since not much of them/their design really indicates anything arab, so i really tried to avoid the easy route of picking an english/japanese name and im glad i did! :>

and thank you for the fun facts and the compliments! his ego is probably very overinflated now but he kinda just shrugs at the tissue rejection and considers it your loss

[dearfou]

Tangerin

pairing: simon 'ghost' riley x gn!reader.

synopsis: you relationship with simon began with a not really great start but maybe something will change....

warnings: bad English, ooc, kinda angst, open ending, kinda fluff, have never posted on tumblr so this is my first try •3•

You still remember the first time you saw him.

It was your first day with Task Force 141. You were talking with Soap whe you saw him. He was big, really tall, and had this dark aura surrounding him, making everyone shiver and be scared of the skull mask.

 You couldn't say you were not one of many people who was afraid of him, no, it's just you were…. Interested. Now it seems foolish, but back then, every part of your body was vibrating, trying to stay in its place and not touch him. Your eyes couldn't look at anything else except him when you were together in a room, not even for a second. It was really irritating, sometimes it even complicated your work time and life, but still. Still, you tried to see him, and he knew it.

 One time, he just came up to you and watched. Your breath was taken away because it was rarely to see him this close to yourself. He was smelling like wood in fire and cigarettes, even though you couldn't remember him smoking.

  “Why are you looking?” He asked with a rasp in the voice. His body was tense, hands locked and eyes looking through you, trying to find answers to questions.

  “What?” You winced in thoughts of how stupid it sounded. Of course, you knew what he meant but still caught in surprise.

  “I asked you, why are you staring at me?”

  “I do not.”

  “Yes you do, so give me a damn answer.”

 You stayed in silence for a few minutes, chewing the inside of your cheek, trying to think of any answer, but nothing came to mind, so you just sighed and went with the wind.

  “I stare at you because I'm interested in you.”

 You could see the mechanics working in his skull, trying to process the shit you had said. He was silent for a long time, and then he just went away, leaving you behind and not looking back.

 You stayed in the place for no one knew how long, with no thoughts in mind and a hammering heart in the chest.

 With a loud sigh, you clenched your trembling hands in fists and went back to your room.

-----

 After that you hadn’t seen him for a long time. It seemed like he was avoiding you, trying to hide. Even at briefings, when you looked at him and tried to speak, he just ran away.

 One night, you were sitting on the porch with a little tangerine in your hands. The season of citruses had started since last week, and who were you to miss it. The only thing is, you hated to peel their skin off. It always stuck in your nails, irritating a shit out of you.

 Someone behind you scoffed, and you turned around. It was Ghost. He was standing with his mask on, as usual, watching you tentatively.

  “Y’mind?” His chin pointed to the same stair you were sitting on. You just shrugged and turned away.

 He silently set next to you. Tention vibrated between you two, but no one tried to do anything about it. The darkness of the sky erupted with light of stars that never gave up to shine. Wind was dancing with branches of trees and leaves left behind. You wanted to say something, make a move and try to take the wild animal he was, and finally, when you opened your mouth, he interrupted you, taking a little tangerine.

 He was without his gloves. You noticed from the underneath of his sweatshirt was a tiny bit of a skin with tattoos. You were shocked, if being honest, but then your mind blow out of the orbit and haven't thought about coming back when his fingers started peeling a fucking tangerin. All of everything at once became silent and dull. Not even bright stars were shining anymore, no moon or sun explosion could take your attention. The only thing you recognised now were Ghost’s fingers taking skin off your tangerine.

 When he finished, he held it to you without looking. You just took it and stared dumbfoundedly.

  “Why?” You whispered to him, hoping not to scare him off.

 He didn’t answer or turned to look, but at the same time he hadn't gone away.

You just watched him playing with the skin of the citrus, trying not to ruin the moment, but you couldn't get rid of any thought that were running in your head back and forth.

 ‘I think there won't be any answer,’ you thought and silently sighed, tearing off a slice of tangerine and putting it in your mouth. The juice was sweet, making you grab two more slices. On the fourth one, you stopped and looked at Ghost. He was still sitting beside you, watching the sky, in his arm was a little star made of tangerin’s skin. You thought he was beautiful, like that, sitting on a porch at night; you smiled and stretched a little piece of a fruit toward him.

 He stared at you, looking, no, searching for something in your eyes. Maybe he still didn’t trust you that much. Maybe he still couldn't understand you completely, but still he took the slice.

  “I saw you struggling to peel one in the restroom,” he hooked his mask, and for the first time, you saw his lips. They were scared and pretty. Damn, you wanted to kiss him right now. “So, I thought you would want some help."

You only nodded and continue watching the forest in front of you. Suddenly, the air stopped beeing cold, birds were happier and something between you two shattered, welcoming a new begining.

[labellefleur-sauvage]

The Highland Fox and The English Rose

Read on AO3. Masterlist (with fic summary)

NOTE: Rating for this chapter: E

XXX

Chapter 4: The Highland Road for Me

Lucien woke, as he had every morning since the day after his wedding, hard as his dirk.

Sighing, he threw his quilt off his heated body and leaned up on his elbows to stare at his cock, a slight frown on his lips. He had hoped his body would have gotten the hint by now that it wasn't going to have any company other than his hand for a while. Apparently, his little tryst with Elain last night had convinced it otherwise.

He looked over to his window. The window was slightly ajar, and the thin, gauzy curtains framing the glass fluttered softly as the gentle breeze brought the earthy scent of the loch into Lucien’s room. The sun was out with hardly a cloud spoiling the bright blue sky overhead. It was going to be a beautiful day, and he really needed to get out of bed and begin his long list of tasks.

That could wait a few minutes, though.

Lucien reached down and palmed his aching cock. Gingerly wrapping his hand around his shaft, he began stroking himself to an all too familiar beat.

Elain looked beautiful last night under the moon and stars, especially as he slowly moved towards her and lowered his lips to her face. She hadn’t looked frightened or repulsed by his scars and eyepatch; on the contrary, she looked excited by the thought of him touching her, her gaze hazy with lust even as she told him off for how horrible he had been to her the past several weeks.

Her skin was so soft under his lips. Elain had become pliant, like her bones had transformed to water when his lips danced across her face and neck. Her scent—honey and jasmine—zipped across his lips like he’d been struck by lightning. Lucien groaned at the memory—what he wouldn’t give to have her tongue on other places of his body. 

Lucien would much rather get his hands and tongue on her, though. Lucien could already see it, the first time they’d lay together. He would whisper sweet nothings in her ear and kiss her until she was breathless and sick of it. Her neck, shoulders and collarbones would receive the same treatment. She’d be soft and willing, wanting, under him.

Lucien brushed his thumb over the head of his cock, smearing the bead of precome around, shuddering as his hand picked up its pace. If Elain were here, he would guide her hand up and down his shaft, letting her explore his cock to her heart’s content. Soon, though, he would have to move her hand off him, so he wouldn’t finish too early and because he’d need all his attention so he could worship her body. 

If he remembered correctly from their wedding night—and Lucien could recall every breath he’d taken that evening—Elain’s breasts were the perfect size for his hands, her nipples pink and proud. He would spend ages licking and sucking and learning what she liked and didn’t like. Maybe Elain would like having her breasts being bitten and squeezed—maybe she wouldn’t care one way or the other. Lucien would do whatever she wanted him to do. 

He would still tease her for a bit, kissing his way down her stomach, licking and nibbling her hips and thighs. Perhaps by then Elain would be so desperate she’d cry out for him to do more, touch her, end the agony between her legs. Only then, when she’d beg him, would Lucien spread her legs and truly look at his wife.

Lucien gripped the base of his cock and squeezed, taking several deep breaths, willing his impending orgasm away. He wasn’t done imagining what his wife would be like in bed quite yet. 

After a few moments, his hand resumed its lazy pace up and down his shaft. It all felt so good—where was he at again?

That’s right—between Elain’s thighs. She would be pink and absolutely dripping for him, his fingers gliding through her slit with no resistance as he stroked and touched her lower lips. He’d be gentle as he touched her—Lucien knew from prior experiences that his length took lasses some warming up to take—before sliding a thick finger inside her.

Lucien threw an arm over his eye, his hips moving in time with his stroking hand. Elain would be so tight around his finger. He’d thumb the small bud at the top of her lips, working her open gently as his fingers brought her to release, his name on her lips.

“Fuck,” Lucien murmured, adding a twist of his wrist over his cockhead on each upwards stroke of his length. “Fuck, Elain…”

Yes, that’s what he’d rather be doing right now. Before that, though, he’d need to prepare his wife for his cock. 

One orgasm wouldn’t be enough; no, with the tremors of her first release still wracking her body, Lucien would lower his face between her thighs and finally taste his wife. Maybe she’d taste light and floral, her honey and jasmine scent more intense, or perhaps altogether different, more musky and spicy. Regardless, Lucien would spread Elain wide and feast between her thighs.

He could already imagine her gasps and groans as his tongue delved between her slick lips, her cunt still pulsing with her first release. Lucien would lap up her juices and luxuriate in the taste and smell and feel of his wife as she thrashed above him. Her bud would be straining and though he’d try to tease her, make her wait, Lucien knew himself and knew he’d be unable to prevent himself from licking and sucking her small pearl.

Lucien would add another thick finger to her quim—it was still nothing compared to his cock. Elain would moan at the unfamiliar stretch but Lucien would soothe her by telling her how good she was doing and laving her bud with his tongue.

Lucien grunted. His hand was now slick with precome, his cock harder than it had possibly ever been before.

Elain would come again on his tongue, Lucien would make sure of it, her scent flooding his mouth until all he could see and smell and hear was her. Her walls would tighten around his digits and her cries would only make him harder and more needy for his wife.

He’d kiss Elain again, her wetness soaking his face, to let her know how much he wanted her and how desperate he was for her. She’d be ready, spreading her thighs wide to welcome him in the cradle of her hips, his cock brushing against her delicate folds. 

And when he slid inside her tight, silken heat for the first time—

Lucien gasped, his back bowing off the bed as he found his release, his fluids splashing on his stomach and dribbling down his hand. He groaned, working himself through his release, gritting his teeth as the sensations turned from pure pleasure to overwhelming the more his hand moved. Slowly, his hand stopped pumping his length and he lay on his bed, breathing hard. 

If he was able to come at the mere thought of sleeping with his wife, how would he fare when he eventually won her over and consummated the marriage? He might be no better than a green boy about to tup his first lass, coming as soon as he pushed inside her. 

Lucien closed his eyes. He shouldn’t be imagining what Elain would be like—she might be cold and stiff in bed, only laying with him as her societal duties as wife and Lady command. She might outright refuse to lay with him.

Based on the hurt and devastation in her eyes when he’d turned and left her in the garden last night, Lucien wouldn’t blame Elain if she wanted nothing to do with him for the rest of their lives. She was completely right: he had neglected her in favor of another, inadvertently toyed with her, then played with her body and emotions on the eve of temporarily leaving her, which she didn’t even know was about to happen. But something told him that if he managed to convince Elain that he could be a good husband and lover, that she would be just as fierce and passionate as his partner as their arguments have been. 

Lucien pondered his wife as he cleaned himself and got ready for the day. Why was she outside last night? Had she somehow known he was planning on departing in the evening, when the moon was high and bright to guide his way?

He doubted it. It was probably just his bad luck that brought Elain to the garden last night. 

Well, perhaps bad luck was a bit dramatic. 

He should have been more insistent on escorting Elain back to the castle and leaving then and there. But seeing the anger and fire in her eyes was like a glass of the finest whisky straight down his throat: unexpected and thrilling and arousing, all in one. How could he turn away from the raw emotions his wife was displaying? Elain’s clear desire for him was infectious, spreading throughout his own body at the first graze of their skin against each other and rising to match hers. How could Lucien do anything but touch more and more of his wife, her large doe eyes drawing him in, making him forget everything else but her?

And she had gripped him back with as much longing as he had for her. At the very least, it was clear they each fiercely desired each other. If they had to be married for the rest of their lives, it was a good sign that they thought the other attractive.  

Lucien sighed, heading directly for his office. He had a lot to do: go over his maps and notes, retrieve his pack from the bush in the garden he’d thrown it under when Elain chanced upon him, and get new water and some fresh provisions. 

He had only been working for a short time when someone knocked on the door. “Come in,” Lucien said distractedly, rolling up a map.

Tamlin strolled in. Lucien looked up, surprised. “What are ye doing here?” he asked, not unkindly. “I thought ye were leaving early this morn.”

“I wanted to discuss something with ye,” Tamlin said, shutting the door behind him.

“Oh? What’s that?”

Tamlin paused. “What’s Mr. Archeron, Feyre’s father, like?”

Lucien snorted, going over to his large bookshelf and selecting a recent publication on Scottish waterways and lochs. “A right bastard. The epitome of an Englishman, right down to his greedy little belt buckles.”

“So does he no’ view us Scots favorably? Even landholders?”

“The only person he views favorably is himself and anyone he can squeeze a bodle out of,” Lucien said, looking through the book. It was actually quite informative—he should make room and bring it along. “He’s the devil in disguise and I pray every night that I never have to see him again.”

Tamlin pursed his lips. “I get the impression that Feyre is verra independent, that maybe she might no’ care if her father approves or disapproves of her actions, or who she spends time with. Would ye agree?”

“Aye, sure,” Lucien mumbled, looking through his book. It had a detailed map of the lochs in Clans Mackenzie and Munro to the North—if he could charter a boat across the lochs, rather than having to go around them, he’d shave days off his schedule.

“So, since her father isno’ around, and yer technically her nearest male relation, would ye object if I began spending more time with Feyre?”

“If it suits ye,” Lucien muttered. Or perhaps he could avoid the roughest roads altogether and take a boat along the northeastern coast, avoiding the worst of the clans, especially Clan Sinclair.

“Yer a right friend,” Tamlin beamed at Lucien, pulling him in a one armed hug. Lucien stumbled—Tamlin wasn’t the most emotional man, so he must be pleased with something.

“I’m off, then,” Tamlin called, practically running out of the office. “Need to prepare my estate. I’ll call on ye and Lady Elain later, aye?”

“Aye,” Lucien replied in a daze, confused at Tamlin’s outburst, glancing back down at the book in his hand.

“It seems, for a man who should be nearly 10 miles away by now, that you’re looking quite comfortable in your office this morning.”

Lucien swore—why was everyone constantly interrupting him while he was in his office? “How long have ye been skulking about there, Jurian?”

His friend shrugged, stepping into his office and closing the door. “Just when I saw Tamlin step in. I thought you’d both be gone by now.”

“Aye, well, there was a bit of a mishap last night. I wasno’ able to get to the stables.”

Jurian furrowed his brow. “And what was so large a deterrent that you weren’t able to leave during one of the clearest Scottish nights I’d ever seen?”

“Elain.” Lucien answered simply.

“Ah,” Jurian said slowly, sitting in the chair across from Lucien’s desk and propping his feet up. “Yes, I can see why you’d be so reluctant to leave her for so long.”

“It wasno’ that—she was outside in the garden at night and she caught me. Like she was waiting for me.”

Jurian’s eyes widened slightly before he relaxed his features. “Well, that’s unfortunate. You’ll be leaving tonight then?”

“Aye, regardless of what—or who—I see on the way.”

Jurian hummed. “It wouldn’t hurt to tell Elain where you’re off to, in case there are problems or delays.”

Lucien scoffed. “Ye sound just like Eris.”

“Your brother is a very smart man and excellent at planning military maneuvers.”

“That wasno’ a compliment!” Lucien snapped. 

“Perhaps you could have learned a thing or two from him when it comes to your wife,” Jurian shot back. “Vassa says she's clever, and far fiercer than you think.”

“Why is everyone so obsessed with Elain?” Lucien muttered to himself, ignoring how his own pulse quickened at hearing someone else tell him what he already knew about his lovely wee wife. “I’m no’ changing my mind.”

“Have you at least talked to her, like you promised Vassa?”

“Er, aye, in a way,” replied Lucien, thinking less of the words he and Elain had exchanged the night before and more of their bodies moving against each other. 

“Good,” said Jurian, nodding. “Vassa will be happy to hear that. What’s that book you’ve got?”

Happy to move on from talking about Elain, Lucien showed him the book on lochs he’d discovered. With any luck, he wouldn’t see Elain today before he left. His heart suddenly ached at the idea, like it protested being away from the sassy Englishwoman who had quickly taken over his thoughts and dreams. 

XXX

“… and then I hit the wolf right in between the eyes! It was amazing!”

Elain hummed noncommittally, trying to let  Feyre’s words go in one ear and out the other. She and her younger sister were sitting outside in the courtyard on a large plaid blanket, enjoying a simple lunch of bread, cheese and meat. The clouds that had just rolled in above them hid the warm sun that Elain knew was dying to peek back through. 

“I wouldn’t have ever been able to make that shot if I was using my old bow and arrow. Tamlin’s gear is much better quality than mine, obviously.”

“You’re spending quite a bit of time with Laird Stewart,” Elain observed.

To her surprise, Feyre blushed. “Well, it’s not like there’s much else to do here, is there?”

Elain had to give her sister that. Before last night, when she and Lucien had touched each other, Elain felt like she would die of boredom. 

But last night… 

Last night, with Lucien so close to her, and touching her, and whispering sweet words in her ear, Elain finally felt something for the first time she’d arrived in Scotland. Passion, desire, want. And not just from her, but from Lucien as well.

Elain awoke that morning with the sweet dreams of their touches lingering in her mind, and an aching dampness between her legs that she quickly remedied. Her joy fled her as soon as she reached her release as she recalled what Lucien had said to her: I shouldn’t have let it get that far.

Elain huffed. Perhaps it was the curse of all women to suffer idiotic men.

“Well, it isn’t proper to be spending so much time alone with an unmarried man, unchaperoned,” Elain said to Feyre at last.

Her sister snorted. “No one from England will ever know what we’re doing up here, unless we spread rumors about ourselves.”

“That is one benefit to being up here—not having to worry about gossip.”

“Well, you don’t have to worry about that, anyways.”

Elain furrowed her brows. “What does that mean?”

Feyre paused. “Well, Tamlin’s told me some… intriguing stories about what happened to Lucien. You know, with his…” Feyre gestured to her face. “And his family.”

Elain’s stomach clenched. “What? What have you heard?”

“Has Lucien not told you?”

“No! He hasn’t told me anything!”

Feyre winced. “I shouldn’t have said—“

“You’ll tell me everything you know right now, or I’ll tell Nesta what you’ve been up to with Tamlin!”

Her sister scowled. “Scotland has changed you already. Fine, don’t go repeating this, but Tamlin said Lucien was caught… fraternizing with a servant girl at his family’s castle. The servant girl’s husband beat Lucien nearly to death and took an eye to boot. Brought a bunch of shame on the family, so his father disowned him so he could no longer claim to belong to Clan Vanserra.”

Elain felt like she was sinking. “An affair? Disowned?”

Feyre nodded. “Apparently his mother was so embarrassed by his actions she sent herself to a nunnery to repent for his sins.”

That would explain why his parents weren’t at the wedding. “Oh goodness,” Elain gasped, clutching her chest, her heart and lungs suddenly on fire. What type of man was she married to?”

“Oh fuck, I shouldn’t have said anything,” Feyre said as Elain stared vacantly at the blanket in front of them. “Calm down, please, it’s just gossip. Even Tamlin admitted he didn’t know the full story.”

“Every rumor begins its life with a thread of truth,” Elain gasped, too distraught to reprimand Feyre for her rough language.

“And by the time we hear of it, it might be all wrong,” Feyre said soothingly. “Please, forget I’ve said anything.”

“How do you expect me to just forget that my husband is possibly an interloper?!”

“Quiet! We may not know Lucien that well but Tamlin has had nothing but positive things to say about him besides this. Come on, let’s get our minds off of this by going for a walk along the walls.”

But Elain couldn’t get Feyre’s story out of her thoughts, even hours later as she paced in her bedroom alone. Had Lucien truly ruined someone else’s marriage? What would it mean for her own marriage if she couldn’t trust him not to stray?

Elain had to be missing something. She had to talk to Lucien, right now.

Gathering her courage, she marched out of her room and through the halls. She wasn’t sure where he might be, but thought his office near his room would be a good place to start.

The door to his office was closed but Elain didn’t let that stop her. Gathering the worry and anger that had been gnawing on her all night, she burst into his office. “We need to talk—what are you doing?”

Lucien was bent over a large traveling rucksack on his desk, trying to stuff a thick hardcover book into the overflowing bag. His eye widened and his mouth opened like a fish as he took in Elain before him.

“Er, hello,” Lucien said awkwardly, carefully moving his pack off his desk and out of sight. “What can I help ye with, Elain?”

“What are you doing? What’s that large bag for?”

Lucien didn’t answer. He stammered as she stared at Elain, panic overtaking his eye.

“And why are you dressed like that?” It was the same outfit Lucien wore last night, including his weapons. This wasn’t something someone wore for an evening around his castle or even a midnight stroll around his garden, Elain realized. This was the outfit of someone going away. 

“You’re leaving,” Elain said quietly, studying Lucien’s attire and the guilty look that came over his face. “You’re leaving me .“

“No—I’m not leaving ye, Elain,” he whispered. Lucien looked wrecked, though whether it was due to him abandoning her or being caught doing so, she had no idea.

“Sneaking off in the dead of night with a bag, and you say you’re not leaving me?” She laughed bitterly. “Then explain to me what you’re doing. Something is going on here, I know it.”

He paused. “It’s complicated.”

“Good thing I have nothing but time on my hands.”

Still, Lucien didn’t answer. He swallowed and eyed the door behind Elain.

Elain slammed the door, and the entire wall seemed to shake with the force of her actions and fury. “Go on, husband. It’s just us now.”

Lucien hesitated again. “I’m going… north, further in the Highlands.”

“Oh? And what’s there that’s so secretive that you couldn’t tell me, your wife, where you were going?”

He flushed. “Don’t,” he warned. “Don’t ye dare say—“

“What? That I’m your wife? Are you that ashamed of me that you can’t even stand to hear the words? Are you embarrassed of me?”

“No,” Lucien snarled, storming up to her and glaring down at her. “Never think that I’m ashamed or embarrassed of ye.”

“Then what is it? Why won’t you tell me what you’re doing?” Elain snarled back, craning her neck up to glare back at Lucien.

“It’s dangerous, what I’m doing and where I’m going. The less ye know, the safer you’ll be.”

Elain shook her head, disgusted. “Don’t you dare say you’ve been thinking about my safety as you’ve ignored me the past two weeks in order to leave me in the middle of the night.”

“It’s true—I ken I havena’ been acting like it, but as yer husband, it’s my responsibility to keep ye safe and this is the best way for that.”

She couldn’t help the incredulous giggle that escaped her mouth. Ignoring her was his version of keeping him safe?

"You had better start being honest with me right now,” Elain warned, “or I am going to scream so loud at you, I’ll wake up everyone in the castle.”

He tsked. “Yer being dramatic.”

“I’m being dramatic—!”

“Alright! Fine, fine, keep yer voice down,” Lucien winced, looking back at the window, like he was afraid the sound of her yelling had permeated the glass. “I’m going to a small island called Sangravah,” he said reluctantly, quietly.

Sangravah? She’d heard that before. Elain cocked her head and wracked her brain and remembered the book she’d looked at only yesterday: Sangravah, a small island off the northeast coast with some type of lighthouse or monument drawn on the landscape. 

Why would this blip of an island, an afterthought on the map she’d studied, necessitate such secrecy? What was there that Lucien was so desperate to obtain?

There were so many moving parts and veiled truths and statements she’d gleamed since arriving: Lucien and Eris being brothers but swearing allegiance to different clans, Vassa’s reluctance to discuss Lucien’s past, his lack of family at the wedding, Feyre’s claim for what led to Lucien’s disfigurement and banishment…

Something clicked in Elain’s head. Perhaps it was not a what, after all. 

Elain stilled. “Who’s at Sangravah?” she asked quietly, and Lucien paled immediately.

“How did ye know?” he asked, sounding almost scared.

“Just a guess. There’s enough unanswered questions going around that make this seem personal.”

“Aye, well, good job,” Lucien said awkwardly. “Now that you know where I’m going—“

“But not who you’re going for,” Elain said shrewdly. “Tell me who’s worth traveling through half of Scotland on a dangerous mission of some sort.”

“That’s private! I’ve already told ye where I’m going, that should be enough!” Lucien snapped.

Elain narrowed her eyes. Definitely personal, based on how defensive and scared he had turned when Elain partially guessed the truth. 

Her stomach dropped. “Do you have another woman at this Sangravah?” Elain whispered. “Is that what this is? You’re rescuing your lover?”

Lucien’s eye widened. “No, of course not! How could ye think that?”

“Why else would you be going through all this work?” Elain felt lightheaded, then rage filled its place. “Is it the servant woman who got you banished from the Vanserra clan?”

Lucien’s face froze. “Where did ye hear that?”

“You’re going to get her out so you can send me away, aren’t you?” Jealousy like she’d never felt before flared, bright and hot, inside her. “What’s she like?”

Lucien pursed his lips. “Stop talking.”

“Is she prettier than me? I bet she’s not.”

“Be quiet and shut yer mouth,” he breathed heavily, his nostrils flaring.

“Does your manhood get as hard as fast as it did the first time you saw me naked as it does for whoever this wench is?”

“I’m going to rescue my mother!” he yelled. “My mother is at the convent at Sangravah against her will, and I’m going to get her back!”

The silence in the room was deafening. Elain felt the righteous anger flowing throughout her body ebb away like the tides. “Your… mother?”

“Aye,” Lucien sighed, running a hand over his weary face. Now that he had confessed his ultimate destination, he looked exhausted. “Her husband, Laird Vanserra… discovered something that my mother had done in her past. It doesn’t matter what,” Lucien said, seeing Elain start to ask another question. “He discovered what she had done and needed to be rid of her. There’s no divorce, and he wouldna’ risk the shame he would have brought on his clan by abandoning her. He forced my mother to give up her title as the Lady of Clan Vanserra and dedicate her life to the church, then sent her to the harshest convent in all of Scotland to live out the rest of her life alone.”

“Goodness,” Elain breathed, too stunned to say anything else. 

“It’s a heavily cloistered convent.” Lucien looked like the weight of the world had been lifted off his shoulders, his body relaxing as he confessed his secrets like a man at confession, his words tumbling out of his mouth like he didn’t realize what he was saying. “Once women enter the monastery, the only way they can ever leave is a white shroud around their cold bodies. The only exception is the Mother Superior and her Prioress, who are allowed to leave to conduct church business and get supplies.”

“That’s dreadful.”

“Aye. Worst part is that the convent was established by the English Crown as a way to exert control over the Highlanders. If any Lairds or Lords get any ideas about rebelling, the English will kidnap their wives or daughters and take them to Sangravah, to be held as prisoners in all but name.”

Elain swallowed. “Why didn’t you tell me any of this?”

He chuckled dryly. “Bit much to drop on yer wife, no? Besides, there are some parts of the plan that aren’t as… well thought out. It’ll be dangerous. If it’s discovered ye knew what I was doing, some of the Lairds won’t look too favorably on ye.”

“I could have helped you with… something,” Elain said lamely. 

“Ye really couldn’t. There’s lots of parts that Vassa and Jurian have been helping me with.”

“Vassa and Jurian know all this?”

“Aye. They’re the only ones—besides you, now—who ken where I’ll be and what I’ll be doing the next few months.”

Elain stuttered. “Months? You’ll be gone for months?”

“It’ll take me a while to get to Sangravah, get my mother out, and get back, so aye, a few months. But I’ll be back before you realize, and we can start our marriage properly, like it should have been.” Lucien said this soothingly, like he was talking to a skittish horse or upset child, and not his fully grown adult wife.

That was it. The resentment and rage she’d felt for Lucien coursed throughout her body. He had spent the past two weeks since their wedding ignoring her, then spent a lust-filled evening caressing her, working her up only to deny her, and now he was leaving her alone, with only her sisters for company, in his castle for months, on some type of half-planned rescue mission? 

Over her dead body.

“You’re taking me with you!” Elain hissed. 

Lucien’s eye widened and he scoffed. “I am no’!” 

“Oh yes, you are! You’re taking me with you on this little… adventure you’ve planned!”

“This is no ‘little adventure’! And why would I do that?”

“Because if you don’t take me now, I’ll, I,ll… I’ll follow you around forever! You’ll never have a moment alone and you’ll never be able to sneak away and rescue your mother!”

Lucien tsked. “I’m sure I can manage to escape ye for a moment.”

“Or maybe I’ll just tell everyone all about your little mission,” Elain snapped. “Everyone at the castle—Dougal, Alis, all your minor lords and yeoman. I’ll tell them you’ve abandoned your title and wife, that you’re no longer interested in even being a Laird anymore.”

Lucien glared at her. “Yer far too nice to do any of that.”

“You don’t know me at all—who’s to say what I will or won’t do?” Elain shrugged. “Maybe I’ll even write to some of the Lairds…” She paused, another dot connected. “That’s the real reason you established these trade routes, isn’t it? For access to clan lands and roads you wouldn’t normally have, so you could pass unbothered to Sangravah.”

All of the red flush that had gathered on Lucien’s face over the course of their argument vanished instantly. “Eris was right—yer far too clever for yer own good.”

“I wonder how they’d take the news that you brokered contracts with them all under false pretenses,” Elain said thoughtfully, tapping her chin. “If you lied to them about this, what else have you misled them on?”

“I’ll lock ye up in the castle!” Lucien exclaimed desperately. “I’ll, I’ll keep ye confined in yer chambers day and night, until I return!”

Elain leveled a cold glare at her husband. “You’re rescuing your mother from the same situation you just threatened me with. I know little about you, husband, but I know you’d never lock a woman up and throw away the key.”

Lucien deflated at her words. “Aye, yer right,” he said tiredly. “I could never do that to ye.” He sighed and ran a hand over his face, groaning into his fist. “Fine. Ye want to come with? On yer head be it. It’ll be verra hard and dangerous  and rough—they’ll be no niceties like warm meals and sleeping in inns. Ye’ll listen to everything I say and follow my orders. Find a bag and pack light. We leave tonight.”

Elain’s heart jumped in her throat. “Truly?”

“Aye, I said what I said. I’ll gather more provisions. Go on, pack!”

“And you’re not going to leave me behind?” Elain asked suspiciously, already moving towards the door. 

“As ye so kindly pointed out, it appears ye have me by the bollocks,” Lucien grit out. “So no, I won’t be leaving without ye. Ye may need to pass as a boy on the road at times—too many questions and too unsafe for a bonnie lass like ye to be on the road with just me. I’ll have to find ye some pants.”

“Er, no kilt? I have some simple wool dresses—“

“Bring those, and whatever else is plain and will keep ye warm. No kilt for ye—ye’d never pass as a man with those shapely legs. Pack the simple things ye do have, I’ll get the rest. Be back here in ten minutes.”

Elain rushed out of the room without a backwards glance. Finally , she was leaving the castle and doing something.

And she had only needed to coerce her devilishly handsome and difficult husband into letting her accompany him on a mission to rescue her mother-in-law.

Throwing open her wardrobe, she hastily packed several plain wool dresses, a few long skirts and some long sleeved tops, long socks and her traveling cloak. It was probably for the best that Lucien hadn’t gifted her anything with his clan’s plaid, she thought bitterly, as she wouldn’t be able to bring it. Elain had a well-worn pair of tall brown boots that she pulled on, along with some simple bonnets.

She looked around her room. Everything else—her fine dresses, her jewelry, her makeup—couldn’t come with but she wasn’t upset about that. It was a shame she couldn’t fit any of her books in her bag—what was she going to do to pass the time?

Glancing at her desk, a leather bound journal, given to her by Father the morning after the wedding, peeked out at her from under some discarded clothes. Grabbing the journal and the few rough-hewn graphite pencils that came with it, Elain wrote a quick message to her sisters explaining her abrupt absence simply as needing to tour the lands and trade routes with Lucien. Content that that simple missive would hold them over, she stole out of her room and back to Lucien’s office.

“Did ye pack just what you need, nothing else?” Lucien asked as soon as she entered, closing the door behind her. 

“Yes—plain clothes and boots. Did you find some pants for me?”

“Aye,” he confirmed, gesturing towards a haphazard pile of brown clothes of various shades and materials on his desk. “Had to ransack the keep for different sizes. Try them on to make sure they fit.”

“Er, where?” Elain asked. There was no privacy screen in the room, nor a separate room for her to change.

“Right here.”

Elain scoffed. “I’m not changing in front of you!”

“It’s nothing I havena’ already seen, after ye offered yerself so nicely on our wedding night,” Lucien reminded her, briefly glancing up and down her body, a single eyebrow raised. “And we’re married, are we no’? We’ll have to get used to seeing each other bare if it’ll be just us two on the road together.”

Elain flushed. “Fine. Could you… look away, or something, while I change?”

Lucien leaned back against his desk, a smug smirk on his lips. “I’m comfortable here. Go on, we doona have much time.”

Gritting her teeth, Elain reached behind her to begin untying the lace ties on her dress. She huffed a breath. “I can’t reach—can you—?”

Elain felt Lucien’s warm body behind her suddenly. “Aye,” he said, his voice an octave deeper than usual. Elain shivered as his large hands deftly untied the back of her dress. She bit her lip to contain a sigh as his fingers trailed down her now exposed back.

Gripping her hips, Lucien spun her in his arms. His eye was filled with fire, a heat that Elain felt in her own body between her legs. Just like last night, it would be so easy to give in and become enraptured by Lucien. His gaze dipped to her lips and he began lowering his head to hers…

But he needed to work a bit harder for her, Elain thought, especially after last night. Darting under his arms towards his desk, Elain grabbed the pile of trousers, a smirk on her lips. “We don’t have much time, right?”

Lucien released a deep sigh. “Aye, yer right,” he responded, leaning against his desk again and crossing his legs. “Go on, let’s see how they fit.”

Elain took a deep breath. Be direct, bold and vicious, just like her brother-in-law had counseled. Dropping her dress and shift so she was only in her undergarments, Elain kept eye contact with Lucien as she struggled with the first pair of pants, unused to anything other than dresses. She tugged on the pants but they stopped mid thigh. 

“A little small, I think.”

“Aye,” Lucien answered hoarsely, his eye now focused on her bare legs. “Just a wee bit.”

“Where did you get these?” Elain asked, reaching for the next pair and beginning the process again.

“Some stable lad,” Lucien said distractedly, watching Elain raptly as the next pair barely cleared her hips. 

“Well, these fit,” Elain said, looking down at the material covering her lower half like a second skin.

“Ye’ll convince no one that yer a lad wearing those,” Lucien muttered, staring at her body. “But they’ll have to do. I have other clothes ye can borrow if needed. Get changed and let’s go.”

Lucien didn’t wait for Elain, rushing out of his office and letting Elain trail behind him. He led them to the garden and the same wall she had found him at last night.

“The way to the stable will have too many people about,” Lucien explained at her confused look. “If we go over the back garden wall, we can sneak to the stable and avoid everyone.”

“So I caught you as you were leaving last night?”

Lucien grunted his confirmation. “Come, I’ll hoist ye up.”

After they climbed over the stonewall—Elain with Lucien’s help—they quietly crept across the castle grounds to the stables, where a small donkey laden with bags and a sturdy, chestnut horse were waiting. The horse glanced at Elain and stomped a single hoof on the ground, casting an annoyed glance at the inevitable extra weight that would be on his back for the foreseeable future.

“This is Ajax,” Lucien said, giving the horse a solid slap on its hindquarters before moving to the donkey. “He can be a bastard when he feels like it and doesna’ take kindly to strangers so go gently. Don’t tell me ye’ve never been on a horse before,” Lucien groaned, seeing the trepidation on Elain’s face.

“Of course I haven’t! It’s completely un-ladylike!” 

“Not sure that’s how I’d describe ye,” Lucien muttered. “Yes, yes, yell at me all ye like later—for now, just get on the damn horse so we can be off.”

Glaring at her husband, Elain cautiously approached the horse, quietly yelping when it gave a warning snicker to her as she approached. She hooked a foot in a stirrup and glanced at Lucien helplessly. “Do I just…?”

Sighing, Lucien walked over from where he was securing the donkey and firmly gripped her hips, lifting her up and swinging one leg over the horse. Elain clung to the reins for dear life as she settled on the animal.

“This isn’t so bad,” Elain remarked lightly. “Where’s your horse?”

“Only the one.” Lucien hopped up behind on the horse, sitting in the worn saddle and pulling Elain flush to his front between his thick thighs. “We really doona have any more to spare.”

Elain gulped, turning to look at Lucien. He was so close to her. “So we’ll be riding like this, all the way to Sangravah?”

“Aye,” Lucien smirked, reaching around Elain to grab the reigns. “Just ye and me, all alone, for months. Hope yer not regretting yer decision.”

Elain tilted her head up, refusing to give Lucien any satisfaction. “Not at all. Lead on.”

Lucien raised an eyebrow, then began guiding the horse out of the stable, the donkey following. His large hand settled on Elain’s hip, keeping her steady on the swaying horse. His powerful thighs guided the horse out of the castle walls and down the road, towards the forest, with only the bright moon overhead to guide them.

This was all so ridiculous and dangerous and so unlike Elain that she pinched herself to make sure this wasn’t a dream. It wasn’t: she was on a horse traveling through the Scottish Highlands with nothing but some borrowed clothes, her mysterious and strong husband, and her own determination and stubbornness.

Elain could imagine her sister’s reactions. Nesta would surely panic if she heard the true nature of her sudden departure, and Feyre would be sullen and jealous that she wasn’t invited.

But that’s what was so great about all of this, Elain realized. Her sisters weren’t here. It was just Elain and Lucien. Before, the thought of being alone with her husband would have filled her with dread. But now, after it was clear they were at least attracted to each other, the prospect didn’t seem so terrible. 

There was nothing ahead of her but the wild Scottish highlands, and Elain knew whatever she had been looking forward to her entire life was out there somewhere.