#in my little tower …. gazing longingly out of my window ……

[dearhaunt]

had cinnamon spiced tea and a black and white cookie .. went to job interview .. now reading octavia butler .. need to write a novel reflection .. need to study for tomorrow’s midterm exam .. someone whisk me away …..

[lyneira]

♡ Nightly Visits + Your First Time ♡

-> It might be a little cheesy, but imagine having late night talks with Malleus in your room and instead of simply knocking at your door, he would enter through your window (using his teleportation magic LOL)

malleus x fem!reader

1st section: fluff! / 2nd section: smut (Your first time with Malleus)

part of the [#lyneira's old junk] collection!

fluffy sequel -> the first morning

Sebek and Silver would be looking all over for him after all and he didn’t want them to see that he was always coming to see you, so entering through your window was the best solution he could come up with.

If Sebek ever found out that Malleus was frequently coming to visit you at such a late hour, you would never hear the end of it. He’d probably be like “STOP BEING SUCH A BAD INFLUENCE TO WAKA-SAMA!” or “ARE YOU TRYING TO SEDUCE WAKA-SAMA?! YOU TEMPTRESS!!”. (But the crown prince was willing to be a little rebel when it came to you, hehe)

Malleus might apologize for having to visit you in such a manner, but tell him that it makes it all the more special because it’s just like in the storybooks where the prince would come to visit his maiden at her window in the tower. And most of all, tell him that you're his maiden and he’s your prince. If you do that, he'll swoon.

These were those rare moments where he enjoyed being alone- well, as long as he was alone with you. Any worries he had seemed to slip away. He was too focused on you to care.

It was a routine between you two. You'd leave your window open for Malleus and he'd soon come so that you can finally enjoy each other's company in peace.

One time, Malleus ends up coming while you’ve already gone to sleep. You seemed to have forgotten to close the curtains and window that would usually signal that you’re sleeping. You even forgot to change out of your uniform. You must have been so tired, Malleus thinks.

He looks at your sleeping figure longingly, gently taking a strand of hair away from your face, which looked absolutely exquisite under the moonlight. He's now hovering over you, so enamored. Your peaceful expression, your scent, the sound of each delectable sigh when you exhale, it all intoxicates him. Oh how he just wanted to have all of you already. He's indulging himself as his lips inch closer and closer to yours. Though, right before they can touch, he stops, realizing that he's getting ahead of himself and being improper.

He then goes back to what he should have been doing– simply setting you properly in bed and covering a blanket over you since you left the window open and he wouldn’t want you to get sick. (Though, if you did, he’d be the first to offer to take care of you, without a doubt)

After doing so, he looks at your serene face one more time, leans over, and leaves a soft kiss on your forehead. "We'll talk another time, my love", he'll whisper.

You slowly open your eyes, sensing the presence of your beloved, though when you fully open them, he was already gone.

NSFW SECTION BELOW - MINORS DNI

cw: fem!reader, penetration, oral, praise kink, and very sliiiiight yandere if you squint hard enough

I could also imagine that it would be during one of these nights where you and Malleus would have your first time together.

You and Malleus are laughing over something silly and he takes a look at your contented face as you laugh.

Absolutely beautiful.

He feels like the happiest fae in the world being able to laugh like this with you, and was so grateful that you were his and he was yours.

He cups the side of your face and smiles at you tenderly, just gazing at you with such love. You lean into his hand, "Yes, Malleus?"

He begins to caress your cheek with his thumb,

"I'm absolutely smitten by you, Y/N…There's nothing more that I can do to express all the love I have for you…I simply love you too much"

You kiss his palm, your heart all a flutter because of his sweetness. "Aww…I love you too- oh!"

He suddenly pulls you into his embrace, holding you firmly but gently.

"...Please, don't ever leave me", he whispers softly into your ear as he holds you a bit tighter.

You're shocked to see him so vulnerable. So desperate. As if anything you'd do in that moment would make him fall apart.

You lean back to stare deeply into his eyes, holding his face with both hands. "I would never leave you Malleus, I love you"

You both continue to stare at each other with such faithfulness and devotion as you two slowly lean in and kiss. It doesn't stop at a single peck. It's initiated by Malleus' desperation that devours your mouth and you can't help but reciprocate it.

Things are getting steamy between the both of you, so you both begin to undress. You begin to unbutton his shirt and he holds the edge of your nightgown. "May I…?"

You hum and nod in response, also giggling at his politeness. That little smug moment is soon cast aside as he discards the rest of your nightgown, leaving you to feel so bare.

Being your first time, it was a foreign feeling to be this vulnerable and quite literally, naked, underneath someone, so you instinctively cover yourself.

"Don't…. Let me admire you", Malleus says in a low tone

You slowly allow him to take your arms away to finally reveal yourself in all your glory, and he's starting to get hard at the sight

He kisses and caresses your body, leaving no place untouched. He's always wanted to know all of you, both body and soul and now that he had the opportunity to do so, he wanted to be thorough.

He'd take his time with you, savoring the taste of your lips, your skin, and your sweet, sweet nectar, all the while savoring your expressions as well.

He leaves a trail of kisses from your lips, down to your jaw, down to your neck, to your collarbone, to your chest, to your stomach, and finally down to your womanhood, muttering praises of you with each time he moves.

When he goes down on you, he pleases you so well that you hold onto his horns and grind into his mouth, causing him to quietly growl into your pussy as he delves his tongue even further inside you than it already was.

And when you finally pour your juices into his mouth, he ensures to drink every single drop. He was drunk on your essence. He needed to be inside of you. Now. And he felt that you were ready enough with how sopping wet you were.

You get a little nervous when you see his cock for the first time. It was deliciously long, as well as thick, you weren't sure it could fit. But he reassured you that he would be gentle and take it slowly, and he wanted you to let him know if it hurt too much at any time.

When he finally slipped it in, oh it hurt alright. It hurt so good. The way he stretched you out as he gradually penetrated you deeper and deeper was making you hold onto him tighter, nails digging into his back. He began to feel your tight walls adjusting to him as he fully sheathed himself inside you.

He then gave you a look, "That’s it, my love... you're taking me in so well….ah, so tight…are you ready for me to move..?"

As soon as you breathe out a "yes", he's pumping in and out of you with short strokes, eventually gaining more depth with each thrust.

When he feels your walls begin to flutter around his length, he attempts to go even deeper into you with longer strokes, the sound of skin slapping and the obscene squelching of both of your juices mixed together filling your room.

He's chanting numerous "I love you's" and you're moaning his name as you begin to tighten around him, getting close to your high. He was getting close to his too.

With one more deep thrust into your core, you cry out in ecstasy and become undone, creaming all over his cock. Not long after, he releases his own load into you as well, coating your walls with the seed of his love.

And he would stay inside you just like that. Not wanting to be released from your embrace.

Close. Closer. And even closer is how he wanted to be with you. He was able to see you in your vulnerable state, to inhale your intoxicating scent, to hear your melodic moans, to taste your essence, and he was able to feel your warmth, both inside and out.

He's experienced so much of you, but he can't get enough.

He will never get enough.

a/n: these old headcanons are actually the inspiration for my other malleus x reader fic, ♤ the crown prince and his wife-to-be pt.II: your first time ♤ that I currently have in progress. Getting into detail with smut is not my forte so I'm honestly having a hard time trying to finish it, so take this for now pls 😢

© 2023 lyneira. PLEASE DO NOT COPY, PLAGIARIZE, OR REPOST MY WRITING ONTO OTHER PLATFORMS

[tinks-forbidden-elixirs]

Flocks & Pyres - An Excerpt ("Cold")

(...) “It’s going to be cold.”

Tango righted himself and peered past the animals he was herding to find Jimmy, who was leaning back against the near-empty goat pen with his wings curled forward around himself, staring up at the remains of the ranch with a frown. Something achingly melancholy drifted across the bond and Tango paused in his cattle-wrangling to duck his head out the door.

“What, tonight?” he asked, glancing skyward to check for clouds.

“Well - yes, that too.” Jimmy sighed and shifted his hold on the quilt, their egg back in his arms for the moment while Tango took care of gathering their wayward livestock. “But I meant…”

He trailed off, his wings drooping slightly and his eyes drifting back toward the ranch. Tango tried to follow his gaze, a frown across his brow. Was it…was he staring at the tower…? Or what remained of, anyway?

“...Jimmy?” Tango murmured, lost but wanting to help.

At first, Jimmy didn’t say anything, seemingly lost in thought. Tango glanced through a surviving window toward the hillside behind the ranch while he waited, spotting the ever-present cluster of players still lingering just beyond the wall. Joel had left not long ago, as had Cleo, but Martyn and Etho and Scott were standing in a small circle near the treeline, talking in hushed tones that Tango couldn’t hear from this distance.

It didn’t take much to guess the subject of their conversation, though Tango was fairly certain he was glad he couldn’t hear what was being said.

Jimmy let out a shaking breath, and Tango was quick to look his way.

“I meant the nest,” he said finally. “It’s going to be cold without it. We need to keep the egg warm, but I’m worried we won’t be able to, especially without four walls to keep the heat in.”

“...oh.”

Oh. Oh, gods, of course Jimmy was staring at the tower. The ache in the bond made more sense now, felt more clear. It was something like loss though not quite as strong.

The nest.

It was as important to an avian as a hive was to a blaze. It meant home, safety, comfort, warmth. Jimmy had built that nest with his own hands, had borrowed clothing from Tango, had woven familiarity into its foundation. Tango had even slipped away on a solo stealth mission just to steal a sweater from Grian when Jimmy had mentioned, rather longingly, that it would have been nice to have something from his family too…and Grian was the closest thing Jimmy had to a brother.

In the midst of the fire, Tango had only had time to grab their egg and Jimmy’s quilt the first time he had scaled the tower. The second time though…

A slow smile began to break across his face as he realized he might actually be able to add a positive note to the thus-far-disastrous night. He quickly herded the animals through the door, shoving the cows in the direction of their pen with much more energy than before.

“Oh?” Jimmy asked, repeating what Tango had said. “What d’you mean ‘oh’?”

Tango just laughed, a giddy little thing, and shut the gate firmly behind the last few cows he’d needed to put away. He ducked his head out the front door with a grin.

“I mean ‘oh, honey, you’re gonna love this’.” (...)

= + = + = + =

(I have other stories I'm writing on my main account that need my attention, but this little AU has just sucked me in completely. I'm a sucker for familial stories and I just love this one. There's a lot more written than the two bits I've shared but I don't wanna share too much until I'm sure it's in a more final form. It'll end up on Ao3 when it's done :) )

[digitalworldbound]

dethroned, chapter one

characters: miyako/hikari

summary: Miyako, Princess of the land of Paramoura, is appalled the moment her father tells her she is betrothed to the prince of a neighboring nation. Afterwards, her lady-in-waiting must go, leaving Miyako by herself. In her stead, a young chambermaid by the name of Hikari is expected to fulfill her duties and care for the Princess. Though she does not know much, Hikari brings comfort to Miyako during her darkest hours. Comfort, however, comes with a price, and Miyako's life spirals more out of control as she realizes just how much the chambermaid means to her.

a/n: written as part of @campdigimonth . also, i love miyakari. that is all. on AO3 and FFN.

Amidst rolling fields of wheat and grass, towers of stone stood tall against the blue sky. In the land of Paramoura, the beloved royal family lived just beyond a small, bustling town.

Horses, laden with fresh produce and hand-crafted goods, meandered across the pebbled paths. Merchants called loudly to prospective customers while the bartering of eggs and bread carried on the wind, passing through the wheat fields and into an open window.

With a sigh, Miyako Inoue gazed out longingly at the flow of the market. A bird chirped its morning song from a tree branch below, a flutter of wings preceding its takeoff into the distance. 

“What’s the matter, Princess?”

Startling Miyako from her perch at the window, her lady-in-waiting stared at her with clear intent. 

“You’ve frightened me, Meiko-san.” 

The older girl giggled quietly. “That much is clear. Come here; it’s time to get ready.” 

Meiko gestured towards the swaths of fabric that she meticulously laid across the bed. Shades of blue melded into soft pinks, a spectrum of colors irresistible to most.

A strand of lavender hair hung limply across Miyako’s eyes. With a sigh of impatience, the Princess pointed vaguely towards one of the dresses before turning her back towards her lady-in-waiting. 

“Which event has me getting ready at the ripe hour of noon?” 

Meiko bit her bottom lip in a poor attempt to obscure her grin. She had known the Princess for most of her life. Miyako had always despised forced, public events. 

“Don’t worry, little one. You won’t be coerced into dancing with the drunken lord of some faraway land. The King has requested your presence.”

As Meiko tightened the laces of the cream-colored corset, Miyako could feel her breath dry up in her throat. “My father? What could the King possibly want with me?” Miyako paused, holding her hands up as one of the gowns was pulled gently over her head. “Unless…Is it time for our monthly dinner already?”

“It’s not your monthly dinner, it’s just…” Meiko’s voice trailed off 

Miyako glanced over her shoulder, her eyebrows furrowed tightly together. “What is it, Meiko-san?” 

For a moment, silence stretched between them. With deft fingers, Meiko tied the sash of Miyako’s gown with a flourish. A gentle tap signaled for the princess to turn back around.

Outside, the birds continued to hum happily. Early afternoon sunshine filtered through the window, illuminating Miyako’s loose hair. 

“The King sounded pensive. He asked for you to see him as soon as possible.” 

As Meiko’s fingers found themselves in the Princess’ hair, Miyako eyed her bookshelves with dismay.The start of the day had been glorious and slow with a small walk in the castle’s garden and snippets of her favorite novel read between meals. 

A sigh escaped her lips, the hem of her dress tickling the tops of her feet. 

After weaving Miyako’s unruly strands into various layers of braids, Meiko took a step back, admiring her work.

Bending at the knees, the lady-in-waiting bowed deeply. Her arm swept out, indicating for Miyako to take the lead. “My lady, by your leave.”

Biting back a smart remark, Miyako allowed herself to roll her eyes. Despite the Princess’ insistent begging, her lady-in-waiting refused to address her informally. Trapped behind those stone walls, Miyako could feel bits of herself chipping away. Each time the staff used her title in place of her name, a bit of Miyako’s identity melted away until she was nothing more than a face.

Shoulders set with determination, Miyako clenched her teeth. 

Her heels echoed down the empty halls as she neared her father’s door. Meiko trailed her dutifully, nodding respectfully at the servants who busied themselves with cleaning every nook and cranny of the castle. 

Beyond the Princess’ bedroom door, the castle walls spread out in all directions. Plants decorated nearly every corner. In the springtime, flowers bloomed from their branches, filling the rooms with a light, fresh scent. 

Because Miyako’s bedroom was situated on the top floor, she had plenty of time to look out above the rest of her home. The path in front of her was lined with a railing on one side. 

When the Princess was younger, she would sneak out of her room past her bedtime and press her face against the cool, iron bars. Miyako would doze off, hoping to catch a glimpse of her father in the early hours of the morning, only to wake underneath her comforter the next day.

Now, the Princess merely peered out down below, the murmur of a conversation between servants too low for her to discern.

As the pair rounded the corner, Miyako could feel her pulse quicken. 

It had taken her five months of consistently bothering her father’s courtier to convince him to eat meals with her. Eventually, Miyako had managed to arrange their monthly dinners, ignoring the ways in which the King would grumble and sigh his way through their allotted hour. 

In her twenty years of life, the only time she had received a direct summons from the King had been when her mother passed away unexpectedly. They had no others in their family, no other need to sit tersely in his office while tears streamed down Miyako’s cheeks. 

Miyako led their way down the grand staircase, pausing only to acknowledge the staff that bowed in her presence. 

Their trek continued through the main entryway and down another hallway. Unlike the sparse decorations of the rest of the castle, the path towards the King’s office was lined with carefully painted portraits.

Dead eyes stared down at the Princess. The faces of people she would never meet blurred together until she reached the end. Though Miyako could not bring herself to look, she could feel the heaviness of her mother’s gaze. 

Without so much as glancing up, Miyako had the curve of her mother’s mouth memorized, caught somewhere between a grin and a laugh. Grief gripped at her heart fiercely, her eyes itching for a moment. She couldn’t allow herself to cry, especially in front of her father. 

The King’s door loomed at the end of the hallway. A pair of knights stood dutifully on either side of the entrance. Their sharpened spears crossed in the middle until Miyako approached.

“Good afternoon, Your Highness,” the pair mimicked. With a parroted bow, the spears were uncrossed and the doors swung open. 

The large wooden doors gave way to a lush, mahogany desk. King Mako, broad and stern, sat on the other side. A deep frown had been etched into his features from years of stress and strife. Although the land of Paramoura was generally peaceful, leadership did not come without an immense amount of responsibility. 

“Your Majesty.” Miyako was careful to keep her tone neutral and to time her bow to her father’s preferred length. As a child, she had many au pairs struggle to get their lessons across. Hours of painful etiquette classes had prepared her for terse moments and interactions. 

“Princess, please sit down.” 

With a flick of the wrist, Meiko was dismissed, shutting the doors quietly behind her. 

Alone with her father, Miyako allowed the silence to settle around them uncomfortably. She took a moment to study her father. Despite Miyako’s irritation, she could not pass on the opportunity to memorize his features.

His eyes, much like her own, shone a brilliant hazel. When her mother was alive, the King’s eyes would glimmer with happiness, his mouth curving up into a rare smile.

Miyako remembered being small, curled into her mother’s arms. Her father would lean in, his stubbled cheek pressing against her small head as he kissed her mother. Those were the last memories Miyako had of her father’s happiness. Soon after, her mother was gone, and the King was never quite the same.

Now, his hazel eyes were set in deep sadness. Wrinkles crossed the distance between his eyebrows and curved around his frown. His thin arms braced against the top of the desk, his gaze focused on a piece of faded parchment. 

“I need to talk to you about a matter of great importance.” He paused as if to gather his thoughts.  “First, I am going to speak. If you have any confusion, refrain from asking questions until I am finished.” 

Miyako sat up straighter, her interest peaked. As a woman, her role in the patriarchy had been nearly nonexistent. A troubled look crossed her father’s features, almost confirming Miyako’s hunch: There was something wrong in the kingdom, and the King needed her assistance. 

When his daughter made no move to respond, the King continued. 

“After the evening of your twentieth birthday, I was approached by King Aoki of Kunō. It is of my understanding that you have already been acquainted with the Crown Prince. In our discussion, King Aoki made it clear that if we wished for Paramoura to thrive throughout this next winter time, a compromise would have to be made.”

“Compromise?” Miyako all but shrieked. “Paramoura will be fine as long as they mind their -”

The King held up a singular finger, Miyako’s protests dying in her throat. “Though it is not your business, it will serve you well to know that the country of Kunō has bought the majority of our exports for the past decade. Without their financial support, our people would starve.”

“But-”

“Silence!” His voice reverberated in Miyako’s chest. Though the wooden doors had been shut tightly, there was no doubt that Meiko had heard the King’s outburst.

Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes,  but she would not allow herself to cry. 

Breath uneven, Miyako’s father continued. “As Princess of Paramoura, you have a duty to our people. Furthermore, I will not allow my daughter to interrupt me.” 

The warmth of shame crawled up past the collar of Miyako’s gown. Moments with her father were few and far inbetween, and yet she had managed to anger him within the first few minutes. 

Forcing her lips into a thin line, the Princess lowered her head. “Please, Your Majesty, forgive me. Excuse my eagerness and untimely responses. I am honored that you are speaking with me about these matters of importance; I hope to be of great assistance to you, in whichever way you need.” She paused. “I hope to serve the people of Paramoura well.” 

The toes of her shoes dug relentlessly into the floor. Miyako focused on the sound of her teeth grinding to avoid visibly cringing at the words that hung between them. 

Her father knew her well enough to gauge whether or not she was being genuine, but said nothing at her behavior. 

Miyako snuck a glance up at him through her eyelashes. Two fingers pinched the bridge of his nose, the deep crevices around his eyes more pronounced than usual. An uneasy feeling settled into the pit of the Princess’ stomach; the King was worried. 

“I need for you to listen, Princess. After countless meetings spent in heated arguments, King Aoki was steadfast in his ultimatum. Princess - Miyako - I’m sorry.”

The Princess’ head lifted up with urgency. Panic seized her heart, eyes wide. “Father, what’s going on?” 

Her voice wavered, and for a moment, Miyako felt five years old, preparing herself for the worst.

The King’s eyes flickered briefly to his daughter’s before setting once more on the parchment in front of him.  “In six months' time, you are to wed the Crown Prince of Kunō, Motomiya Daisuke. Your union will allow the country of Paramoura to prosper through the generosity of King Aoki.”

“No. No! I don’t want to marry the prince; I don’t even know him.”

“Princess, listen to -”

“No!” Miyako rose, the chair screeching against the wooden floor. Her pulse pounded wildly in her ears, adrenaline coursing through her veins. The walls of her father’s office seemed to close in, encasing her. 

Unconsciously, her fingers twisted their way into her hair, strands of lavender working their way free. The echoes of her heels reverberated in the otherwise silent room. “But you promised. You and Mama promised me that I could marry whoever I wished. I do not wish this; I would never wish this. Please, Father. There must be another way.” 

The last remnants of sunlight illuminated novels on a weathered bookshelf. Summer’s breeze rustled the leaves just beyond the castle walls, the smell of grass and sunshine mocking the ache in Miyako’s chest. 

She paced back and forth, as if forming a groove into the floor could save her from her fate. Eventually, she came to a stop at the tallest window. Miyako hazel eyes scanned the courtyards, watching the way the servants scurried to and fro, their bodies weaving past each other with a practiced ease. Their lives were repetitious and secure compared to her own. 

‘They have it easy,’ Miyako thought, a new bitterness hardening at the edges of her mind. 

“Believe me, I have tried. The people of Kunō are ruthless at the best of times, and King Aoki was ready to rage war. As the leader of Paramoura, I cannot risk the livelihoods of our own to save you from becoming betrothed. Even if you do not understand now, you will one day.”

Miyako’s knuckles turned white as she gripped the stone window sill. “You’re wrong,” she gritted out. “I will never understand.”

-

Once the door to the Princess’ bedroom was shut, Meiko angrily undid the laces of Miyako’s gown. 

“Princess, you have been taught better than this.” Meiko’s voice was clipped, a rare show of annoyance slipping through. “And of all the people to talk back to, you chose the King of Paramoura - your own father. If King Mako had not been as patient, you could be eating your dinner in the dungeon at this moment”

“Father would never,” Miyako interjected. Though they did not see eye to eye, the Princess knew that above all else, her father was fair. Unlike his daughter, King Mako would never allow his emotions to get the better of himself.

“You don’t realize how lucky you are, Princess. At least he told you of the arranged marriage; most women would find out the night before without even knowing their betrothed! You are very lucky, indeed.”

Miyako sucked in her breath. No matter how mad her lady-in-waiting became, Miyako could not bring herself to regret her honesty. King Mako deserved to know the truth; any marriage with the Crown Prince of Kunō would be a lie.

Meiko continued to wrestle with the restricting garment. “Besides, Princess, you are at an age where you are expected to hold your tongue. There will come a time where you will not be able to rely on me to smooth interactions over. As a Princess, you have had twenty years of experience; please, Your Highness, act like it.”

Once her gown had been sufficiently loosened, the Princess turned around. “What do you mean by me not being able to rely on you? You of all people have seen me through every season. Have I disappointed you so badly that you’ve resigned? Twenty years is not so long once you’ve realized that I was a child for over half of it.”

“Princess,” Meiko began, her timbre soft, “While I am disappointed, you could never do anything to make me leave you permanently. I must go to see my family soon. Mother is unwell, and as her only child, I have a duty to care for her.”

“Duty does not always mean necessity, Meiko-san. If your family needs money, I have a surplus. If she is ill, we have private doctors that can see to her recovery.  I’ll even ask Father to raise your pay, if that’s what is needed to keep you here.” Miyako hated the way tears pricked her eyes. Her hands began to tremble, an aching loneliness creeping in her heart. “Please, don’t leave me.” 

Though Miyako’s voice had been no more than a whisper, Meiko's face crumpled. 

“I commend your generosity, Your Highness, but I cannot stay. Right now, my place is with my mother. Remember, Princess, that duty is not always pleasant. In fact, it is difficult and heartbreaking and uncomfortable, but it must be done. You cannot escape the path that has been laid out before you; the only aspect that can be changed is your attitude towards it.”

Tears streamed freely down both their faces. Miyako, her hair as loose as the nightgown Meiko gently dressed her in, allowed herself a singular question. “When do you leave?”

“Tomorrow morning.” When Miyako’s mouth opened to object, Meiko quickly continued. “This has nothing to do with your display of temper. I had planned to go weeks ago; I was only waiting for the right moment to tell you. If all goes well, I should be back by the time you marry. I’ll probably even get to help you get dressed on your wedding day.”

“Meiko-san, please.”

“Princess,” the lady-in-waiting began gently, “It’s time for you to rest. It’s been a long week for all of us, dear one. I’ll see you again soon.” 

A silent sob slipped through Miyako's lips as Meiko slipped from the door. She’d never even given her a hug, nor managed to say her goodbyes. 

Duty, Miyako had come to learn, had stolen all the things she held dear. For a moment, she wished the ground would open up and swallow her whole.

“Please,” she whispered to an empty room. The backs of her knees hit the mattress, the rest of her body following suit. Mussed lavender hair formed a halo around her head as more tears slipped down the sides of her face. “Please, stay.” 

-

By the time Miyako woke in the morning, Meiko was gone.

In her stead, a young chambermaid hovered nervously in the entrance of the bedroom. 

“Good morning, Your Highness.” Her voice was as soft as the morning light. With a teetering bow, the young girl offered the Princess a shy smile. 

“Good morning.” Miyako managed. She rubbed the sleep from her swollen eyes, becoming painfully aware of her disheveled appearance. 

With sparkling amber eyes, the young girl merely looked at her from her post. Her thin frame was suspended with anticipation, as if she were waiting for something.

“I don’t believe I caught your name.”

The chambermaid started, tipping into another uneven bow as her hands shook. “Excuse me, Your Highness. Please forgive my impertinence. My name is Hikari-san.”

From the bed, Miyako motioned for the girl to stand, motioning her closer.

Though dressed simply, Hikari’s cheeks had a brilliant flush to them that hadn’t been there previously. Despite her obvious discomfort, Hikari gave a slight simile and averted her gaze before silence lapsed between them once more. 

Miyako studied the girl, half-expecting Meiko to waltz in and begin their day. 

It was only then that Miyako registered the bright light filtering in from her window. 

“What time is it, if you don’t mind me asking?”

Hikari’s eyes widened slightly before she cleared her throat. “It is nearly nine in the morning, Your Highness. I would have woken you up earlier, but Meiko-san said that for today, you should be allowed to sleep however late you wished.” 

Miyako’s fingers curled around her comforter. “And has she already left? Meiko-san, I mean.”

At this, Hikari lowered her gaze. For a moment, the chambermaid stood absolutely still, as if she were frozen on the spot.

If Miyako’s heart didn’t ache at her recent loss, she could have laughed. “Do not be afraid of me. I’m hardly more than your age. Meiko-san has been with me for so long; I just want to make sure that she arrived safely.” 

Miyako felt hope bloom unwisely in her chest. Perhaps there was a chance that Meiko had changed her mind and was playing a cruel prank on her as punishment for her behavior the previous day. 

“From my understanding, the lady-in-waiting left in the early morning. I cannot be certain of whether or not she has arrived, but I am sure we will hear from her in a few day’s time.”  With her best calming smile, Hikari approached the Princess’ side. “Are you ready to dress, my lady?” 

The hope deflated, leaving Miyako empty. She couldn’t find the energy to talk, much less dress and walk about the castle. She eyed the new girl with guarded curiosity. 

From her awkward posture to the slight nervousness in her voice, it was apparent that Hikari’s training rested solely with the house chores. 

Miyako merely stared at the girl from her perch on her pillows. “Am I to assume that you’ll be the one dressing me?” 

Though she hadn’t realized it was possible, the color on Hikari’s cheeks darkened. “I promise I won’t look, Your Highness.” 

At this, the Princess did laugh. All of her repressed sadness and bitterness melted away for a moment. Miyako giggled until her stomach hurt, hands gripping her sides as if to keep her laughter in. “Trust me, Hikari-san, a peeping tom is the least of my concerns. I was merely wondering if you were the one appointed to temporarily take Meiko-san’s place.” 

The young girl took a step back, giving Miyako space. “Yes, Your Highness. Though I may not know much, I promise to learn fast. “ After a pause, Hikari continued. “I hope that you will feel comfortable telling me when I do wrong, and are willing to help correct my mistakes, Your Highness.”

Once Miyako nodded her assent, Hikari turned quickly on her heel and busied herself with ruffling through the armoire. 

The sound of fabric rustling brough Miyako minimal comfort. Meiko had been the Princess’ sole constant companion. Dutifully, the lady-in-waiting sat through every grand ball, listened to Miyako’s grievances, and prepared her for nearly every outing she had been on. 

Hikari seemed too meek to talk to, much less confide in. Meiko had been a much better match. 

‘But,’ Miyako asked herself, ‘Had it all been for duty? Had she sat through everything because she cared? Or because she was fulfilling her job description?’

“Now, while I believe you look best in blue, you’ve already worn it during your meeting with His Majesty the King. Please, feel free to disagree, but I think that you would also look lovely in yellow.” 

Still curled up around her blanket, Miyako shifted so that the gown could be placed beside her. It was gauzy and whimsical, much like the morning sun. 

Meiko tended to dress her in darker colors, to help the Princess appear more mature and experienced.

She would have never picked a dress so light and pure. Despite this realization, Miyako’s pulse quickened with anticipation. “I love it.”

Beside the bed, Hikari flushed in gratitude. “I am so glad, Your Highness. Now, would you like help getting ready, or should I leave you for a moment?”

“I would like some help, please. It should only take a moment, then we will go to brunch together.”

“As you wish, Your Highness.” Hikari gave her best lopsided curtsey before ushering the Princess from her bed. 

Before Miyako had time to get her bearings, Hikari was behind her, tugging the nightgown over her head. The yellow fabric she was to change into sat haphazardly on the floor.

“Now, Princess, if you would step into the gown, I can pull it up and fasten for you.”

Meiko would have never allowed Miyako’s gown to touch the floor before she wore it. The new girl was odd, but her antics distracted Miyako’s mind long enough that the corners of her mouth turned upwards. 

She did as the chambermaid asked, shivering as her bare feet touched the floor. “Alright, I am ready.”

No sooner than the words left Miyako's mouth, Hikari guided the gown up her body. Once it was settled, the chambermaid worked diligently at the buttons.

Though she had grown accustomed to the draft, another shiver crawled up Miyako’s spine as Hikari’s fingertips accidentally brushed against her skin. 

“Are you cold, Your Highness? I could stoke the fire for you.”

Miyako was grateful to have her back turned towards the girl. Her cheeks had grown warm, throat suspiciously dry. “With all of the shock I’ve experienced recently, perhaps I could be developing a cold. You needn’t worry, Hikari-san.”

Hikari breathed a sigh of relief, the warmth of her breath grazing the back of Miyako’s neck. The warmth from Miyako’s cheeks traveled down her neck, her heartbeat thrumming in her ears. 

The Princess made a mental note to request a visit from the doctor; she was beginning to feel unwell.

[pheita]

For tiny scene... Feel free to change the words of course to fit the story

In the deepest dark of night, a woman waits for her demon lover.

@catharticallysarcastic

Well, this isn't short anymore so I don't we can count this as Tiny Scene Sunday anymore @catharticallysarcastic lol So this became a story of itself. I took this more as inspirations. So have fun with some wlw demon lover smut. That is all for the warning. Nothing fancy.

Tagging also @stormbrightwriter @kainablue @bloodlessheirbyjacque

Night had fallen long ago. Hours ago, a troop of villagers with torches had passed the tower, unaware that it existed and what or who was hiding there, hidden behind magic beyond this world. Lilian wrung her hands, looking out the window into the distance full of hope. Despite the blackness of the night, her eyes fixed on a point in the distance longingly and, as it were, fearfully. The familiar sound of flapping wings made her breathe a sigh of relief. Lilian's gaze searched the sky, even though she knew she would see nothing. A gust of wind behind here made her turn and exhale in relief. "Have you been waiting for me again?" the tall figure laughed. The long face was a little too long to look human, Lilian still just saw the tips of the blood-red wings disappear, just as the skin of the woman in front of her slowly turned from deep red to a soft beige. "I couldn't help it, Marisa. They came this way with torches. I think they're still looking for me." Marisa opened her arms for a hug, which Lilian was only too happy to fall into. Despite the cold night, Marisa's body was warmer than hers. "You are safe here. No matter how many times they come by here, they won't find you. Don't be afraid." "I am scared for you." Lilian looked up into Marisa's dark eyes. A mild smile settled on Marisa's face as she gently pushed the hair out of Lilian's face. "You don't have to be. I can defend myself. I think you saw that well when I saved you." Giggling, Lilian stood on her toes and kissed Marisa. "I did, that's exactly why I'm afraid for you. The others won't understand. They only see that you are different and only know that you killed those men, but not why." Briefly, Lilian paused and sighed. "And no one would listen to me. They would believe the priests and the ancients; say I had fallen prey to your magic." "What magic?" Marisa's laughter was infectious and echoed in Lilian as if broken by a thousand mirrors. With a smile, Lilian stroked her cheek. "Perhaps the gentle sound of your voice, always knowing how to soothe me?" "That is hardly magic."

"Perhaps, your eyes, which in their deep black glow are the only ones that see me?" "That's not magic either." Marisa shook her head as if speaking to a child, stroking Lilian's hair. "Perhaps your touches, burning like fire on my skin, yet not burning me. Ignited something in me that I did not know existed." "And that would be, my petal?" Chastely, Lilian smiled and pulled Marisa down to her, putting her arms around her neck and looking at her. Slowly she walked backwards, knowing exactly every step in the tower, and pulled them both to the big bed that was generously covered with blankets and pillows so that she would be warm and comfortable when Marisa was away. Laughing, Marisa understood what Lilian intended and slowly let her slide onto the bed, making a little space in all the pillows with one hand and placing a kiss on her lips. "This is not magic either, my heart." "But they will call it such." A shiver ran through Lilian as she watched Marisa thoughtfully let her gaze roam over her, one hand playing with the ribbons of her dress. "They will, you're right. They don't want to understand that such things can happen, not only between a man and a woman. Besides, we have a minor problem there, don't we?" Lilian started giggling like a girl. "What's that?" "I think they want their queen back." "Let them find a new one. I've found mine."

Unexpectedly stormy, Marisa kissed her, letting her hand open the ribbons as she did so. When she released the kiss, Lilian had to giggle again. "Have I finally found something to make you emotional?" "Oh, I'm always emotional when I'm with you." Marisa's laughter vibrated against Lilian's neck as she leaned down to kiss her there. Sighing, Lilian fell into Marisa's touch, feeling the overdress pushed aside and Marisa moving to her breasts, kissing. "My petal." Marisa's hot breath tickled and the anticipation of more leapt around in Lilian like lightning in the deepest storm. "My heart." Carefully, as if Lilian were made of the finest porcelain, Marisa's hands wandered over her body and helped her out of her clothes before she laid her back on the bed just as gently. Elegantly like a dancer Marisa emerged from her dress, which was held together only by two clasps and a belt and fell at her feet as if it were made of water. As often as Lilian had seen it, it still fascinated her, just as the sight of Marisa's curves fascinated her, or her beautifully shaped breasts with their dark nipples seemed to call every time just to be caressed by her.

Longingly, Lilian raised a hand to Marisa, who only smiled slightly and came to her slowly prancing. "My queen of the night," Lilian sighed and giggled at the same time as Marisa's warm body slid beside her. Her hand stroked over Marisa's shoulder down to her chest, where in humans the heart lay, and looked at her urgently. Marisa's hand settled over Lilian's and stretched for another kiss. "You are the first to conquer the heart of a demon." "And you conquered me." With those words, Lilian's hand traveled to Maria's ribs and gently pressed her on her back. A knowing grin appeared on Marisa's face as she peacefully surrendered to the pressure, following Lilian's every move with a gentle gaze. The strands that had come loose from Lilian's braid formed a semi-transparent veil as she bent over Marisa's torso and circled her already erect nipples with her delicate fingers. A soft sigh escaped Marisa, followed by a moan as soon as Lilian kissed her nipple like a breeze.

"What are you doing, my heart?" "Worship?" Another kiss followed. "Offerings?" Lilian slowly slid lower and kissed the small indentation below Marisa's breasts. "Prayer?" Three more kisses followed on Marisa's belly, making her moan comfortably and bringing a satisfied smirk to Lilian's face. "Hymn?" She had arrived at Marisa's belly button and continued kissing with small steps until she dipped into the warm, wet folds and slowly slid the tip of her tongue over it. Marisa's hips pressed towards her, greedy for more. As if opening a delicate fruit, Lilian's fingers pushed through Marisa's folds, revealing her clit, which was barely visible, pulsing with each breath. With the tip of her tongue, Lilian played with the little pulsating bundle, delighting in the wonderful mixture of moans, sighs, meows, purrs and hums that Marisa gave off with every little turn her tongue made. Her clit radiated an unnatural warmth that stood out against the chilly night, like the fine glow against the darkness. Marisa stretched through like a bow, tensed for the shot, her feet planted and clawed into the blankets. Lilian knew what was coming when Marisa's body pressed into her face, demanding more, even before that deep, guttural, and clearly demonic scream that would put the fear of God into any man sounded off into the night.

Giggling, she looked up, almost expecting Marisa to gasp, but instead saw her eyes completely black and a smile full of pointed teeth. Before she understood that Marisa was by no means out of breath, Lilian was also lying on her back, feeling Marisa's hand kneading her breast as those sharp teeth scraped along her neck, giving her a silent promise. "My heart, you have been heard." "Don't play with me, my queen." "I would never dare." Urgently, Marisa looked at her. Under Lilian's watchful gaze, she transformed into her true form. Her skin blood-red and leathery, her great wings resting in backs, her hands more claws than fingers. "I am yours," Lilian whispered reverently. "Forever." "Forever and ever." Marisa's kiss was urgent, as if she needed Lilian to survive, and Lilian was more than willing to give her everything. Their tongues entwined and even when Marisa wanted to release the kiss, Lilian still reached out to her. The hand wandered down from Lilian’s breast and left fine scratches of which Lilian was sure that they were bleeding. The other arm wrapped around her and pressed her against Marisa. Scratches on her shoulder followed, but Lilian didn't care about that either, she just reached out to Marisa and wanted more from her, which brought a smirk on Marisa's face. Lilian set to complain but could only groan as Marisa's finger plunged deep inside her in one fluid motion. "Sing for me, my heart," Marisa breathed huskily into Lilian's ear. Her finger pumped in and out agonizingly slow that Lilian could only whimper. It mixed with moans as Marisa sucked her nipple at the same time. Greedily, Lilian pushed herself closer, wanting to become one with Marisa, but Marisa did not respond. A felt eternity later, Marisa let go of her. The single finger was joined by a second, filling Lilian more than before, followed by Marisa's thumb over her clit. It drove her crazy to be so close to finding release and not getting it. Already almost relieved, Lilian moaned as Marisa quickened the pace. It gathered comfortably warm and tense in her belly and when the orgasm came, Lilian let it out with the deepest moan she ever managed. At the same moment Marisa bit into her breast, sucked on it, bit harder and sucked even more. It sent another shiver of pleasure through Lilian, making her forget who she was and where she was. All that mattered was this feeling of warmth and flying.

Gasping, she came to again. Marisa laid next to her grinning and held a jar of ointment in her hand. Confused, Lilian looked at her. "What's the ointment for?" Marisa leaned down and kissed her. "For your wounds, although they should heal faster now." A confused sound accompanied Lilian as she turned on her side. As she did so, she only unconsciously saw her hand. It took her a moment to realize that something was wrong. Again, she lifted her hand and noticed that starting from the fingertips a kind of discoloration of her fingers began to take over like little tendrils. Marisa took her hand and kissed her fingertips one by one with a smile. "What happened?" "You're my heart." "I'm not talking about pet names," Lilian giggled, but became serious when Marisa continued to look at her so pensively. "No, not just pet names. Our lives are now connected." "How?" Gently, Marisa pushed Lilian's arm aside and placed two fingers on the breast that had bitten her. Lilian looked down at herself. The bite wound was already beginning to change and look more like some kind of seal. A few times she blinked, then started laughing. "This is unexpected." "Did I misunderstand you?" "No, no, I want to stay with you. I didn't expect a pact to be necessary for that, though." Marisa began to beam and leaned her head forward. "It wouldn't be, but it protects you and will grant you a longer life." "Thank you."

[albertasunrise]

Just Another Conquest - Part 1

Masterlist

Warnings: You were sweet, innocent and completely infatuated with Javier Peña. After an incident at the Christmas party, you become the talk of the secretary's at the embassy and everything starts falling around you.

Pairings: Javier Peña x Reader, Reader x Original Male Character

Warnings: Angst, Kissing, Mentions of sex

Notes: There are some touchy subjects at the end of this chapter. If you’re easily triggered this might not be for you. Don’t wanna add too many tags as it’ll spoil it.

For two years you had worked at the embassy as a secretary. You kept your head down and your nose out of trouble and so no one noticed you.

Except Greg.

Greg was sweet. You’d been on a few dates and you were taking it steady. Too many times you had jumped in headfirst into the flames and gotten burned so this time you were going to take things slow, Glacial, but Greg didn’t seem to mind. Greg was sweet.

Someone who wasn't sweet.

Javier Peña.

He had bedded most of the single or unmarried secretaries in the embassy. Even some of the married ones. He flirted with everyone. Well everyone except you and even though that stung a little you were glad. He couldn’t tarnish you if he couldn’t see you.

You’d been infatuated with the man from day dot at the embassy. He was a smooth talker and painfully handsome but you knew you weren’t his type. You were plain, a little on the chubbier side and uninteresting. You'd seen some of the women he’d slept with. Your apartment was across from his and they were all beautiful. The polar opposite of you.

It was the day of the Christmas office party. An event you looked forward to as it gave you a chance to dress up a little. Greg had bought you a stunning dress for the event, something you’d spotted in the window of a shop one day and told him you liked it. He’d managed to find out your size and had snuck back to buy it for you and you had swooned. No one had done anything like that for you before.

The dress fit perfectly. Highlighted all the right parts of you and for once you actually felt pretty. You did some simple makeup, pinned your hair up in a loose bun and wore the only pair of heels you could walk in. Greg was there to collect you when you were done, his jaw dropping to the floor when you emerged from your apartment building and you chuckled at his reaction. You both then got a taxi to the embassy and he had been unable to keep his eyes off of you or his lips from yours. Maybe tonight was the night that you’d let him into your bed.

You arrived a short while later and made your way inside, people excitedly bussing around you as you made your way to where the party was being held. The hall in the embassy had been decorated in traditional American fashion. Tinsel, baubles and lights adorned the walls and a large, audacious, tree sat in the centre of the room with presents surrounding its base. You gazed around in awe of what you were seeing and Greg couldn’t stop watching at you.

Little did you know, neither could Javier Peña.

He had spotted you as soon as you’d entered. He had seen you around over the past few years but until now had never spared you a second glance. He watched you as you entered with Greg from accounts. He’d spoken to Greg a handful of times and he always seemed nice enough, if not a little dull. His attention was so stuck on you that he didn’t even hear Steve talking his ear off until his name was shouted in frustration. Pulling the agent from his fancy.

“Oh no, you leave that one alone.” Growled Steve when he noticed who Javier was staring at.

“What… why?”

“Because I know what you’re like and she’s sweet. She has worked hard to keep herself out of the limelight and you paying her any sort of attention will destroy that completely.” Stated Steve, downing that last of his drink as he watched you head to the bar with your companion “Besides she’s dating Greg anyway.”

“Greg’s dull.” Mumbled Javier and Steve barked out a laugh.

“Greg is nice and perfect for her.” Asserted the blonde agent “Leave her alone.” He warned and Javier simply rolled his eyes, waving his partner off as he stood.

‘Another.’ He asked as he lifted his empty glass and Steve nodded before turning his head to seek out his wife in the bustle of people beside him.

Javier watched you as he approached the bar, taking you in as he came to a stop a few stools over. The dress you wore fitted your form beautifully, highlighting your small waist and larger breasts. You had a perfect hourglass figure and he practically salivated at the sight, wanting nothing more than to worship every inch of you but you were forbidden fruit. Which made it all the harder to resist you.

You hadn’t noticed Javier watching you but Greg had and he felt resentment start to simmer beneath the surface of his skin. If Agent Peña had set his sights on you then he had no chance. No one could resist that man's charms. He was relieved however to see that you remained blissfully unaware of the man’s attentions so he did his best to keep yours on him.

“They’ve done a wonderful job with the decorations huh?” He spoke as he wrapped his arm around your waist and you nodded eagerly in reply “You’re the most beautiful thing here though.”

“Oh shush Greg.” You chuckled, you’d never been very good at taking a compliment.

“No seriously.” He said as he gazed longingly at you “These last few months have been… Well they’ve been wonderful and I know you want to take things slow and that’s fine. Just know that when you are ready, I will make sure to show you just how beautiful I think you are.”

You swooned at his statement but Javier scoffed and then as the narrative repeated in his mind he became intrigued. The two of you hadn’t slept together? How serious can you really be if you’ve never fucked? So he decided you were fair game. God help him, he was going to taste those lips before the night was done.

…

“Would you like another?” Javi asked you as he motioned to your empty glass.

You jumped at the sudden question, turning your head to see Javier Peña staring back at you. A mixture of thoughts and emotions rushed through you at once but the one that lingered was lust. The way the man opposite you was looking at you went straight to your core and you found you were losing yourself in his dark chocolate orbs.

“Oh uh… Yes please.” You fumbled, the shock of your current situation lingering.

“You look lovely.” He said sweetly as he motioned at the barman to refresh yours and his drinks “A little different to your usual get up.”

“How would you know what I usually wear?” You questioned, a little taken aback by his statement.

“I’ve seen you around.” He stated, shrugging his shoulders.

“Right.” You sniggered, taking a sip from your new drink “Thanks for the drink, Agent Peña.” You finished as you turned to leave only to be stopped by his hand grasping your arm.

“Call me Javi.’ He said softly as he smiled at you.

“Well, thank you again Javi but I must be getting back to my date.” Giving him a last nod you sauntered away, unable to miss the scowl plastered across Greg’s face.

“What did he want?” He asked as you came up beside him.

“He got me a drink.” You replied nonchalantly “That was all.”

“That isn’t all he wants from you.” He growled and your head shot back in shock at his change of tone.

“Greg, I am in no danger of attracting Javier Peña.” You snort, rolling your eyes at him.

“Have you seen how you look?” He snapped and you found yourself growing irritated.

“I have and I am not his type.” You spit “He’s only interested in slim, tall, perfect skinned beauties and I am none of those things Greg. You have nothing to worry about.”

Little did you know, he had plenty to worry about. As the evening went on the music started to die down and people began to say their goodnights, thinning the crowd down to the younger staff members of the embassy. Greg had remained possessive of you, noting how Javier would watch you as you danced with your friends or talked with other people from your department. He’d picked his prey and you were it. Greg, helpless to stop it.

“Would you like to dance Hermosa?” Came a deep voice from behind you and you shivered at the effect it had on you.

Turning you see Javier smiling down at you, his suit jacket long since discarded and tie also. He’d unfastened the top three buttons of his shirt and you couldn't help but lick your lips at the sight of his golden skin beneath. Then suddenly your brain caught up with the rest of you and you shook your head as you looked back up at the man that was towering over you.

“I shouldn’t.” You replied, shaking your head as you looked around nervously “I should get back to Greg.”

“Greg is stuck in a deep conversation with a bunch of other accountants.” He countered, taking one of your hands in his “Just one dance. Will be perfectly innocent I promise.”

You tried to find another reason to say no, anything, but you were coming up blank and so you were unable to resist when he pulled you gently towards the dance floor. The song was slow, soft and you glanced around at the other couples close to each other, slowly swaying to the music.

“Relax.” The agent whispered against the shell of your ear and you shivered,

“Why are you doing this Javi?” You questioned, looking up into his eyes.

“Doing what?” He asked with a mildly bemused expression on his face.

“This. Dancing with me, paying me any form of attention.” You elaborated and his brow furrowed “We both know I’m not your type so this isn’t some ploy to get me to sleep with you, or at least I hope it's not. You’ve never spoken to me before tonight so why? What’s this all about?”

“How do you know what my type is?” He questioned, dark eyes watching you closely.

“Because I live across the hall from you and so have seen many of your conquests leave. All thin and beautiful which I am not.” You chuckled to yourself, glancing at Steve who watched the two of you.

“Well firstly, I think you are beautiful.” He stated and you rolled your eyes “Really, you don’t believe me?”

“I believe you’re a smooth talker that’s good at getting women to fall in love with him.” He snorted at the, glancing at Steve a moment before returning his attention to you “I know I’m not beautiful.” You shrug “I came to terms with that a long time ago but I don’t like to be teased or played with. So if this is some sort of game or bet. Please don’t involve me.” You pleaded and Javier felt his heart ache a little that you’d think such a thing.

“This is no game Hermosa.” He said softly “I like you and I wanted to dance with you.” He continued, bringing one hand up to cup your cheek “That's all that is going on here.”

“You like me?” You questioned, unable to help the squeak in your voice.

He nodded as he smiled at you and then time seemed to stand still. Your eyes flitted to his lips as you gazed at each other, the world around you falling away as Javier Peña cupped your face and kissed you softly. You didn't react for a moment, shocked that this is even happening and then you responded, kissing him back as your hands gripped his wrists and when he pulled away, all eyes were on you.

“Can I take you home Hermosa?” He asked quietly as he gazed at you, smiling when you nodded in reply and then he was leading you out. Greg and the party were all forgotten.

…

“I hope you don’t expect me to sleep with you this evening.” You chuckled, smiling shyly at the man driving you.

“A man can always hope.” He replied, glancing at you a moment before returning his attention to the road.

“Well, I’m not that easy.” You stated, sticking your tongue out at him playfully which elicited a throating laugh from the agent "I like to be wooed first."

You loved his laugh. It brought you all new waves of pleasure to hear it but as your building seeped into view, along with a familiar-looking truck parked out front, the realisation hit you like a freight train.

“Oh my god.” You sobbed as you hopped out of his truck, clutching your middle as you cried.

“Hermosa what’s wrong?” Asked Javier, his tone panicked as he sprinted to your side.

“Greg.” You choked and he noticed you staring at the vehicle parked in front of his “I kissed you, and I left him there. What… Why would I do that?”

Javier pulls you into his arms, holding you as you cried over the relationship you know you had destroyed. He pulled you with him, taking you inside and into his apartment where he sat you down on his couch and poured you a drink.

“Thank you.” You hiccuped as you took the drink from him, staring at the glass as he sat beside you “I liked Greg.” You started, eyes not wavering from your glass “He was sweet. Liked me for me and I’d never had that before. All my previous boyfriends wanted one thing and I got burned so much I gave up on the idea that someone could want more with me.”

“You have to go through some hurt to find the right man.” Javier replied, wrapping his arm around your shoulders and pulling you close “You’ll find him I’m sure. You deserve happiness.”

You sat there and talked for a little longer. Until your eyes were so heavy you could no longer keep them open and when Javier noticed you dosing off, he scooped you into his arms and carried you to his bed. He didn’t try anything. Just simply held you and it was the best sleep he’d had in years.

~

You had no idea you’d be the talk of the office when you returned from the holidays. Greg hadn’t spoken to you since that night and neither had Javi. You’d snuck out the next morning before he’d woken up, mortified that you’d fall asleep at his. You knew you hadn't had sex with him but you’d still slept with him and that brought on all kinds of different emotions. Did he like you the way you like him?

“So how was it?” Asked Kirsten as sat down at your desk, her eyebrows lifting.

“How was what?” You asked, your confusion evident in your features.

“Your hot night with agent Peña.” She elaborated and you almost choked on your coffee “You did fuck him right?”

“No, I didn’t.” You expelled, already feeling sick to the stomach at the realisation you were the talk of the office.

“Oh come on.” She rolled her eyes at your denial “No one goes home with Javier Peña without him having his way with them. You’re so lucky.” She sighed “Although poor Greg left with his tail between his legs. No one blames you for going to the better dish though… Javi is quite the meal.”

You abruptly grabbed your bag and stood from your chair, not stopping to pick it up as it clattered on the stone floor. All you could think about was getting out of there, and fast. You couldn’t miss the sniggering as you swiftly left the office, only to be stopped by two hands grabbing your shoulders.

“Woah what's up?” Asked Greg as he pulled you to the side.

“I uh… everyone's laughing at me.” You sobbed, eyes skirting around and catching peoples stares.

“What did you expect when you went home with Agent Peña.” He scoffed and you looked up at him with a broken expression “All those months clearly meant nothing to you as you dropped your panties for him the moment he called.”

“What? No… I didn’t sleep with him.” You assured, head shaking tears loose from your eyes “I swear to you I didn’t. He kissed me and that’s it.”

“Didn’t see you pushing him away.” He growled and your stomach sank “Despite what you pulled, I still care about you so I will have a word with the others. Just try to keep your head down from now on yeah?”

You nodded, sniffing as you watched him walk away but as you looked around you could see that everyone was still looking at you, talking about you.

You needed to leave.

Your sprinted to the elevators, uncaring of anyone else's attention and pressed the button vigorously, willing it to arrive. You didn’t even look when it opened, just shuffled inside and pressed the button for the parking level. You’d explain later why you’d left.

“Everything okay?” Came a soft Southern voice and you turned your head to see Steve beside you “Rough day?”

“Putting it lightly.” You replied, letting out a watery chuckle as you threw your head into your hands.

“I told Javi to leave you alone. Fucking prick.”

“No this is all my fault.” You sobbed as you looked up at him “Javi was sweet. I should really talk to him but today isn’t the day. Right now I need to go home and wallow.”

“Well, you can do that together if you like.” He chuckled and you looked at him in confusion “He ended up taking today off.

“Right.” You replied as you pulled your bag tighter over your shoulder as you exited the lift and headed towards your car.

Maybe you should speak to him today.

…

You’d more or less talked yourself out of it by the time you'd made it back to your apartment building. You pulled into your allotted parking spot, sprinted up the stairs and made it to your front door, only to be stopped by a familiar voice.

“What are you doing back?” He asked and you turned to face him, noting how his brows were drawn together in concern.

“I uh… Well, let's just say I’m the talk of the office.” You replied plainly as you pulled out your key, desperate to escape this inevitable conversation.

“Why?” He asked and you looked at him again in amazement.

Did this guy seriously have no clue?

“Well, let's see Javi. I turned up at this year's Christmas party with Greg, the guy I was seeing and then left with you after you kissed me in front of all of our colleagues. Why do you think that I’m the subject for office gossip?” You scoffed, crossing your arms over your chest as you awaited his response.

“We didn’t sleep together thought?”

“They don’t know that” You replied, rolling your eyes at him “So that’s what everyone assumed happened. That I waited months to take that step with Greg but one kiss from you and I give you what you want.”

“I’m sorry Hermosa.” He replied, his eyes taking on a sad puppy dog quality that immediately had your anger melting away.

“Why aren’t you at work today Javi?” You questioned as your body language relaxed and you turned to put your key in the door.

“One of my informants died.” He announced and you immediately turned to look at him “She uh… Well, she was ratted in by one of her colleagues. We found her last night mutilated and raped.”

“Oh Javi, I’m… I’m so sorry.” You replied as you gave him a sympathetic look, your heart breaking from the pain that was so evident on his face “Did you want to come in?” You asked innocently and he nodded, taking the hand you offered and following you inside.

Little did you know that this time, you really would give Javi what he wanted. You talked, you consoled each other, you kissed and then finally when the kissing became heated and passionate you fucked him, allowing your own troubles to be dissolved by pleasure. You allowed yourself to lose yourself in him and he buried himself in you to escape himself but when all was done and you lay their sated in his arms you started to wonder.

Maybe he did like you.

~

It doesn’t take long for word to spread around the office that you had fucked Javier Peña now. Someone else who lived in the building overhearing your activities and telling the entire office the following day so when you’d turned up the following feeling more relaxed, it was quickly ripped away from you.

“So decided to skive off for a fantastic fuck with Javi Peña eh?” Kirsten asked as she winked at you, the colour completely draining from your face “You lying slut though. I knew you were shagging him.”

“I uh…”

“Oh no use in denying it, you were heard. You’re apparently pretty vocal in the sack.” She sniggered as the other girls in the office started to chuckle along with her “Oh Javi.” She mocked “Oh Javi yes… just there-“

You left before she could finish her berating, tears streaming down your cheeks as you made your way through the halls to the bathrooms in the hope you could cry alone in there but sure enough, you were not to be so lucky. Greg grabbed you as you tried to scurry past but there was no sympathy in those blue orbs anymore, nothing but anger.

“You fucking slut.” He growled, eyes burning you “I courted you for months. Treated you right and the first moment you get you fuck man whore Peña?” He spat and you flinched at his outburst “You just used me. Did you even fucking like me?”

“Yes, Greg.” You sobbed, fat tears flowing freely now “I did like you... I do even. I like you a lot, I swear I didn’t use you.”

“But you couldn’t resist opening your legs for Javier Peña.” He growled, snarling at you as he watched your face crumble “You know he doesn’t commit so good luck regaining any credibility you had here.” He finished, leaving you sobbing in his wake.

You quickly sprinted through the halls, people's mocking laughter filling your ears but you just pushed forward. You looked up a moment and that's when you caught eyes with him, the man from which all this trouble had stemmed from and you stopped, giving him a hopeful look as he grabbed your arm and pulled you to one side.

“What's the matter?”

“You seriously the only person in the embassy not to hear the latest gossip?” You asked, noticing the genuine confusion that spread across his face.

“We were heard Javi.” You explained, wiping your cheeks with your sleeves “Someone heard us and has told everyone.” You sobbed, face leaning into his hand as he cupped your cheek “But you can set everyone straight, tell them that this is different? I mean, it was different right?” You asked, eyes pleading for him to soothe your worries.

“Hermosa…” He trailed off as he dropped his hand and shook his head, your stomach dropping “Hermosa I-.”

“You said you like me.” You choked, eyes growing wide as you shook your head in disbelief “That I’m beautiful.”

“I do and you are.” He assured you “But I’m not a commitment guy.” He paused and you felt sick “What we did was just two friends comforting each other. Nothing more.”

You can’t believe it. How had you gone and done this again? You’d given yourself to someone body and soul only to be stomped on again. You were a fool and you knew it. There was never going to be a chance of Javier Peña want more than to bury himself in you. You were plain. Simple.

Ordinary.

You left without another word. Darting into the nearest bathroom where you emptied the contents of your stomach before crying yourself dry. When you did finally emerge you were called into your manager's office and were instantly told to take some time. You had some leave to take so they advised you to take it. Let the scandal die down a little. You couldn’t be the talk of the office forever.

So you do. You take the two months you accrued and you leave, numb the entire drive back to your apartment. You thought about going home, actually taking a vacation but then you’ve never been one for adventure. You don’t have anyone back home. No family or friends to speak of so you decide to spend it here. At home. Wallowing in your own self-pity.

~

2 months later…

Javier had noticed your absence and he’d also noticed that you never left your apartment. At least you never left it when he was around to see it. He knew you were due back today, one of the other secretaries informing him that your leave had ended so why weren’t you here? It wasn’t like you to be late. You were always in before most of the other office admins were, sipping your coffee as you went through your daily schedule.

No one else seemed to be worried about your absence. A few assuming you’d forgotten that you were due to come back but they were a little surprised when Agent Peña had started asking around for you. Everyone knew that things between you and him had crashed and burned, your very public refusal being the next hot topic for the weeks that followed. So when he came up short with your colleagues he went to your boss, his worry growing by the minute.

“I’m not sure why it matters to you where she is.” Stated your boss as they continued to skim through the paperwork in front of them “It’s because of you that she ended up taking leave.”

“I understand that but…”He paused a moment, trying to carefully plan what he needed to say “She lives opposite me. I’ve not seen her leave in two months or even heard a peep from her apartment. I know that her suffering is my doing but I do care about her well being.”

“Well, you should have thought about her well being before you dragged her name through the dirt.”

“Do you know where she is?” He growled, growing more and more impatient by the second.

“Yes, I do.” They replied plainly.

“So?”

“She’s in the hospital.” Javier’s eyes shot open, stomach dropping as he stared at the older woman across from him.

“What… what happened?” He asked although he wasn’t sure he wanted to know.

“I can’t tell you that.” She stated and he let out a frustrated sigh

“Is she at least going to be okay?”

“She’s in a bad way.” She paused as she finally placed the documents in her hands down “If you want to see her I can’t stop you. Just know… it is very likely that she won’t want to see you.”

She told the agent where you were and watched as he left, knowing that deep down he had a right to know what had happened to put you there.

…

A few flashes of his badge and he was soon led to your room, stopping the doctor as he left your room and demanding he be told what was wrong. He could see that you were sleeping inside and he felt himself ease a little seeing that you weren’t bloody and beaten. So what was wrong?

“She was poisoned.” The doctor explained in Spanish and Javier felt his anxiety shoot through the roof again.

“Poisoned?” He asked “How? By who?”

“By herself.” The doctor stated and Javier’s stomach dropped.

Had he really hurt you that badly?

“She tried to terminate her pregnancy using an old home remedy.” The doctor elaborated and Javier jumped at that.

“Pregnancy?”

“Yes.” The doctor nodded “She is around 2 months pregnant.”

Javier knew instantly it was his and a mixture of emotions coursed through him. Why had you not come to him? Why did you feel like this was the right thing to do? If there was a baby involved he would do what was right. You had to know that right?

“She is sedated.” The doctor continued “The baby survived. The remedy did not work but it did nearly kill her. She was hysterical when she arrived. Begging us to save it.” He paused, glancing at you before returning his attention to Javier “I don’t think she really wanted to get rid of it. She was just desperate and scared. She should be okay though. We will continue to monitor her and the baby. ”

Javier nodded before stepping aside so the Doctor could leave. His mind was racing as he stepped inside of your hospital room and taking a seat at your side. He would wait. Wait until you woke up and he would talk to you. He needed to understand why you did this. Why you felt you had no other option.

…

You were shocked to find Peña dosing in the chair beside your bed when you woke up. How did he even know you were here? Your head was pounding and your mouth dry so you turned your head to find the bottle of water a nurse had brought you earlier, only to knock it when you went to grab it. The agent woke instantly and you groaned in frustration. You didn’t need his lecture right now.

“Hey.” He said softly as he grabbed the bottle and opened it before bringing it to your lips “How are you feeling?”

You shrugged as you sipped the water, relishing how it soothed your sore throat and dry tongue. You nodded when you’d had your fill and watched as he screwed the lid back on and placed it back on the table.

“What are you doing her Javier?” You rasped and he flinched at your inquiry.

“I was worried about you.” He stated, sad eyes locking with yours “The doctor said you and the baby are going to be okay.” He said with a smile and your eyes started to water.

“So you know?”

“Yes.” He replied plainly “He also told me you tried to get rid of it.” He paused, stroking away a tear that escaped from your eye “Why?”

“Because I knew you wouldn’t want it.” You replied, lip trembling as you spoke “And I didn't want to raise it on my own.” You paused, watching him process your words before you go for the jugular “Besides, I was just another one of your conquests. Can't go tarnishing your record and I’ve destroyed my reputation enough. Having your baby will just destroy whatever integrity I have left.”

“So what are you going to do?” He asks, stomach twisting.

“I’m going to leave Javier.” You said plainly “I will leave and I will raise this baby on my own. No one will ever need to know you have a bastard child with one of your many whores. I want nothing from you so you can go now.”

“Hermosa I-“

“Leave.” You growled, angry tears staining your cheeks “I’m giving you the out you want. Take it.”

Part 2

[wintrcaptn]

Forbidden Ch. 2 | Andy Barber

Summary : Summary : You used to babysit Jacob when he was younger and had the biggest crush on his dad, Andy. But being in High school at the time, you knew it was just a stupid fantasy that could never happen. Now, six years later, you were visiting your hometown while on winter break. Once you found out the news about Jacob, you knew you had to go check up on them. But things take a turn when you find yourself alone with Andy Barber.

Part One

A/N : I wasn’t planning on making a second part for this fic, until now. Thank you all for the amazing feedback! I hope you like this one just as much (:

You barely slept last night, all you could think about was the kiss. About the way Andy held you close to him, and how his tongue danced along yours.

It was driving you crazy, wishing you could taste him again. To feel him.

But you also couldn’t help feeling horrible. Like the worse person in the world. And it didn’t help that you were seeing him again in just a few hours.

It was beginning to make you nervous. To the point where you almost wanted to cancel and forget the whole thing.

But you knew you couldn’t do that to Jacob.

Staring at your reflection, you let out a long sigh.

“It’s just one more night.” You said to yourself.

____

Pulling up to the Barber’s house, you were washed over with guilt and filled with anxiety. Not knowing how this was going to play out, made it even worse.

What if Laurie found out?

What if Andy regretted kissing you?

A thousand questions flooded your mind and it was starting to freak you out.

Jacob saw your car through his blinds and immediately ran downstairs. Excitement plastered over his face. It caught Andy’s attention.

“You okay there, buddy?” He asked, flipping through the channels on the tv.

“Y-yeah.” Jacob said, walking over to the door. “Y/N’s here.”

The second your name fell from his sons lips, Andy stood up and shot his gaze to the window.

You saw the door swing open, and Jacob stood in the door way with a cheeky grin. And just then, you knew you had to suck it up and focus on being there for him.

“Hey!” You said, climbing out of your car.

“Hi!” He exclaimed.

Andy tensed up the closer you got. Part of him felt guilty for what happened, and especially for wanting to kiss you again.

This wasn’t who he was. He wasn’t a cheater, someone who would go behind his wife’s back and betray her trust. He hated himself for letting it get to this. But he couldn’t help it. He wanted you.

As you walked into the house, you tried hard to only focus on Jacob. But in the corner of your eye, you saw his figure. Suddenly, your gaze met his and instantly, your breath hitched.

“H-Hi.” He said, hesitantly walking over to you.

You swallowed hard, but found some courage in you to snap out of the daze and collect yourself. “Hi.” You replied.

“So I was thinking we can order pizza and put on a movie or something while I set up the game? Like old times?” Jacob muttered, looking at you then back to his dad. “You’re going to play too, right?”

“Um—if Y/N is okay with it.”

Both of the Barber boys turned their gaze on you, putting you on the spot.

“Of course I’m okay with it.” You said. “Is Mrs. Barber joining us or—?”

“No, she had some errands to do.” Jacob interrupted you. “She said she’ll be home later though.”

You could tell something was off. The second day in a row, and they weren’t together? This wasn’t like them.

For as long as you could remember, they made every effort to be together.

“I’ll get the game. Dad, can you order the pizza?” Jacob’s voice snapped you back to the moment.

But before either of you could respond, Jacob turned around and ran up the stairs, leaving you alone with Andy.

You hesitantly looked over to him, and his eyes were already on you.

It was crazy how much power a stare held over you. It made your heart pound erratically, and it was hard to think straight.

The silence was driving him crazy. He wanted to know—needed to know what you were thinking. And he couldn’t take it anymore.

“Can we talk about—you know.” He whispered, walking over to you.

Each step he made, growing closer to you, things were beginning to feel hotter and constricting.

“Th-there’s nothing to t-talk about, Mr. Barber—“

“Andy.” He cut you off, now standing just right in front of you. His eyes looking longingly into yours, almost as if he were searching for something. “Please, call me Andy.”

You swallowed hard. “Andy, please. Can we just pretend it didn’t happen?”

“I can’t. I tried, but I can’t stop thinking about it, about you. And—and I don’t think I want to stop.”

As you opened your mouth, you were instantly silenced after the sound of footsteps grew nearer.

Andy cleared his throat and quickly walked back toward the kitchen, pulling out his phone to order the pizza.

Finally, you were able to let out a breath you didn’t even know you were holding.

“Okay, I got monopoly and Pictionary Incase mom comes home early.” Jacob smiled.

“Perfect.”

After a few hours, the three of you filled yourselves with pizza and soda, while playing the game.

Sitting there with you and Jacob, watching the way you both laughed and talked, it was invigorating. In this very moment, Andy watched his son be a kid again and that’s all he ever wanted.

Everything felt normal. Like how it used to be. Before it all went to shit.

You all talked like no time has passed. Cracking jokes, and teaming up with Jacob, buying all the properties so Andy had to pay.

It was perfect.

“So did you ever finish reading the Harry Potter series?” You asked, rolling the dice.

Jacob nodded, flashing a smile as he remembered how much you used to love those books.

“Yea. They were good. Still not my favorite but—“

“Not your favorite?! Dude, Harry Potter is amazing and it has everything!”

Andy listened to you both go back and forth, a smirk plastered on his face.

“Ok well how about the next time in town, we have a Harry Potter movie marathon? I’m sure those will change your mind.”

“Fine!”

Laurie finally came home around seven. She looked even more exhausted than yesterday, and a little upset.

She said a soft hello, gave Jacob a kiss on the head and went straight upstairs, barely giving Andy a glance.

Then suddenly, it was back to reality.

Though you were able to distract Jacob for a bit, nothing could make him forget the truth. And for that, he needed some time to himself.

“I-I’m getting tired, so I think I’m going to lay down for awhile.” He said, propping up to his feet. “Thanks for coming over. I had fun. Maybe we can do it again soon?”

You flashed him a soft smile, and nodded before pulling him in for a hug. “Yeah, definitely.”

And just like that, he ran up to his room, leaving you alone with Andy. Again.

Andy sat on the couch, running his hands through his hair. Tired, upset, confused. There were too many different emotions running through him, it was starting to become overwhelming.

You decided to clean up the mess before leaving.

“Y-you dont have to do that.” He said, gazing at you.

“It’s okay. It’s the least I could do since you fed me the past two days.” You chuckled.

He chuckled along with you, and helped with the dishes. Not another word but glances were shared.

And every time you looked at him, the more you yearned to feel him. But you knew you shouldn’t.

He leaned against the counter once everything had been cleaned. His arms crossed over his chest.

There had only been one constant thing roaming through his mind; He can't be having feelings for another woman. He just can't.

But no matter how hard he tries to push his feelings aside, he couldnt. It wasn’t making any sense. Why couldn’t he shake this? Why couldn’t he let this go?

Before he had time to process anything, something overcame him and suddenly it all came out like word vomit.

“These past few weeks have been shit.” He said, staring at his feet. “And I have been losing my mind over everything that’s been going on until—“

Andy paused, meeting your gaze. “You showed up out of nowhere and—I don’t know.”

You weren’t sure what to do or say but stand there.

“It’s like I’ve been drowning, and kissing you—kissing you was like coming up for fresh air. I was able to breathe again.”

Every word that fell from his lips only made you want him more. Not only physically, not just feeling him or tasting him, you wanted him. All of him.

And he wanted you.

How did this even happen? You hadn’t seen each other in years and after a day, it was instant. Like it had come out of a movie.

He slowly started towards you, and the way he locked his gaze on you, it was almost as if he hungered for you.

Your breath hitched to the back of your throat, scared to move a single muscle.

“Just tell me to stop, and I’ll let this go.” His voice was low, almost like a growl and it only made you want him more.

Without realizing, he stood just inches in front of you, towering over you. Forcing you to crank your neck up so you could gaze into him.

You slightly opened your mouth, knowing you should say no, but no words came out.

The silence was all he needed, and suddenly, his rough hands cupped the back of your head and crashed his lips against yours.

Everything felt still like time had froze. And you were lost in the moment. Lost in his kiss, quickly motioning back and caving into him.

Soft grunts escaped him as he deepened this kiss, while his hands slid down to your waist. Without thinking, he lifted you off the ground, and your legs wrapped around him.

Andy could feel himself grow harder by the second. Yearning to feel more of you. All of you.

Your fingers were deep in His hair as your lips molded against his. You were both so caught up in each other, taking every second in.

He sat you on the counter, and swiftly took off his shirt, exposing his bare chest.

Your fingers traced over him, making its way down to the button of his jeans.

Feeling you getting closer to his already hard shaft, made him shiver under your touch. And damn, he wanted you.

His lips never left yours, sucking, biting and tugging at your bottom lip, forcing soft moans out of you.

The kiss had been everything you ever dreamt of. Possibly even better.

You were so drenched, you knew your panties had been soaked completely. But you could care less.

You could feel yourself pulsate between your legs where he stood. Your body yearned to feel him. To feel all of him, inside of you.

Andy could sense just how badly you wanted him. It turned him on even more, ready to give in and pound into you. He kissed you harder, showing you that he wanted you just as badly.

Everything moved so quickly, you almost didn’t realize you were both unbuttoning your shirt and with your next breath, Andy pulled the shirt off of you.

You were both lost in each other. Lost in the moment, caving into one another.

His lips began traveling down to your neck. His grazed his tongue over your skin just before he his teeth pressed into you and forced another moan out of you.

He loved hearing you. It made his dick twitch under his boxers, begging to be inside of you.

Until...

“Dad, can you bring up a glass of water for me?” Jacob asked, leaning over the railing of the stairs.

“Y-Yeah buddy. I’ll be right there.” He called out.

Andy swallowed hard as he grabbed his shirt from the floor, while you both breathed heavily.

You mirrored his actions and slipped your shirt back on. Feeling your heart beat rapidly in your chest.

This was wrong on so many levels. You were slowly falling for a guy who was older than you and worst of all, married.

“I’m so sorry, this was a mistake.” You said, starting for the front door.

Andy was torn, knowing he should’ve never crossed the line, but it was too late. There was no turning back now. And though it wasn’t right, he didn’t want to go back.

And for that, he hated himself even more.

“Y/N wait, please.”

Tears began to well in your eyes, as a lump formed in your throat. This felt worse than a break up. Worse than anything you had been through which you weren’t sure as to why.

“We can’t do this Andy, you’re married.” You forced out. “Laurie is literally upstairs.”

He had forgotten that she was in the room. Being with you, was like having tunnel vision and all he could focus on was you.

“Fuck.” He exhaled, pinching the bridge of his nose. “What the hell am I doing?”

The tears had stained your cheeks and in that moment, you were broken.

“This was a mistake.” You repeated. “You’re just hurt and confused, this isn’t your fault. I shouldn’t have—“

“Don’t you dare blame yourself for this.” He cut you off. “This is bad timing, I know. But I’m not confused.”

You wanted nothing more than to believe him. But how could you with all things considered?

“Dammit.” You whispered to yourself. “I can’t do this.”

With that, you grabbed your bag and left without saying goodbye.

Andy knew letting himself feel this way to begin with was wrong. But why did it feel so good? Kissing you, holding you, feeling you pressed against him.

Being with you, he could finally breathe. It was like coming up for air.

——

Chapter Three sneak peek

Chapter Three

[not-so-mundane-after-all]

loved your previous fic with dick & gar for the "hand-holding" prompt. if you're still taking prompts, then please do #12 - "pushing a strand of hair behind their ear" with dick and gar

Fandom: DC Titans

Title: Good Men and Women NOT Doing Nothing

Pairings/Relationships: Dick Grayson & Gar Logan, Dick Grayson & Rachel Roth

Summary: There's something different about Gar when he walks into the kitchen one morning and the reason behind it is deeper than Dick initially thought.

Touching | 12. pushing a strand of hair behind their ear, Dick & Gar - for @wanderingroundwonderland

Also tagging my besties @undertheknightwing and @wonderbatwayne 😘😘😘 and now I'm going to sleep 😂

____________________________________________

Dick liked getting up along with the sun, especially on a day like this when warm rays of sunshine filtered through the wide windows, coloring the inside of the Tower with a soft golden glow. It filled his body with much needed energy for the day and brightened his mind like not many other things could.

He was just flipping another pancake over when his attention was distracted by a long, loud yawn.

"Good morning." Rachel mumbled at him as she entered the kitchen, all messy hair and cute pajamas, heading straight for the coffee pot he had prepared for her beforehand.

"Good morning, sunshine!" He replied cheerfully, placing the pancake on the plate beside him. He reached for a can of whipped cream and squeezed a little on top of it, then decorated the meal with fresh strawberries - the way Rachel liked best. "How'd you sleep?" rolled off his tongue with ease as he offered her a portion while she sat down on the stool across from him, holding her favorite mug full of caffeine drink in her hand.

Rachel, rubbing her eyes to get rid of the rest of sleepiness, gave him a lazy smile and pulled the stack of pancakes towards her. "Fine." she shrugged and eagerly got to eating. She closed her eyes for a moment, savoring the taste, which caused a wave of warmth swarming Dick's chest and made him smile to himself, pleased with both his growing cooking skills and her reaction. "But do you really have to kick us out of bed so early? I need my beauty sleep, Kory says it's very important."

"Of course she does." Dick muttered under his breath, trying not to pay attention to the fact that his heart twitched as if it was electrocuted at the mention of Kory. "Early morning means you have more time during the day."

"So what if we have more time when we can't even move after early training." a new voice joined their conversation, making Dick and Rachel simultaneously turn their heads in the direction it was coming from.

And Dick fell speechless, frozen with a pancake on a spatula in one hand and a plate in the other.

Gar walked in, stretching with his arms raised behind his head, fingers tangled together tightly. It wouldn't be anything unusual, that was a part of his morning routine, but what threw Dick off guard was that Gar looked… different.

"Good morning to you, too." Dick told him with a grin plastered to his face to mask his confusion when the boy dropped down next to Rachel, eyeing her pancakes longingly. The girl snickered and elbowed him in the arm, seemingly not surprised nor bothered by the sudden change.

Gar must have felt Dick's eyes boring into him because he stilled suddenly and turned to the older man.

"What?"

"Nothing, just…" Dick paused for a moment, not exactly sure what to say. "Uh, what's with the new haircut?" he finally blurted after handing the boy his own plate of pancakes.

Gar's eyes grew large like he just turned into a night owl - or more like one eye, the one Dick could see, because the other one was covered by a curtain of his green hair, brushed down on the side of his forehead. He blinked twice and just kept staring back until Rachel shoved her elbow in his side, harder this time.

"Ow! Uh, yeah… that." the boy stuttered, rubbing the hurting spot while shooting Rachel an annoyed glare. "I, uh… I decided to change things up a bit, experiment… yeah…" his words trailed off into an awkward silence and Gar shoved a big piece of pancake into his mouth to avoid talking. As he reached for a strawberry from a bowl on the counter, he didn't meet Dick's eyes.

He's embarrassed, Dick figured as he watched the boy putting all his focus on eating his breakfast to avoid going more into the topic. Rachel kept observing him as well, her stare warm and sympathetic, though Dick couldn't help but notice a hint of worry behind her eyes.

"Looks good to me." Dick commented finally, earnest and true. The change was unexpected, yes, but if Gar felt like wanting to change something about himself then he had every right to do it. And it really didn't look bad. His words got the boy to lift his eyes back up and he sent him a sheepish grin.

"What's up, people?" Jason announced his presence with an unnecessarily loud shout, making Rachel flinch in response.

"Damn it, Jason. It's 7 am, keep it down, would you?" she grumbled at him when he slid into a free seat on her other side.

He threw a glance at her coffee mug, then almost obnoxiously pushed it closer to her with his index finger "Looks like someone is in desperate need of more caffeine."

Dick couldn't resist a chuckle when she rolled her eyes so hard she must have seen the back of her skull.

"Shut up." she huffed as Jason stole a strawberry from her plate and threw it into his mouth, but then his eyes set on Gar.

"Cool haircut, bro." he said, his lips stretching into a smirk. "But that emo punk fringe was cool back in like 2009, y'know?"

Gar sent a death glare his way. "Very funny, Jason."

"Hey, it looks dope!" The other boy raised his hands in defence, but then leaned in closer again, eyes squinting mischievously. "It makes you look… mysterious. Like you got something to… hide."

This time it was Jason's side that became a target of Rachel's elbow and that plus the way he said it made Dick do a double take. There was an undertone to Jason's voice, an insinuation of a deeper meaning. Gar froze for a moment, unsure how to react. Eventually he opted to end the conversation by throwing Jason an awkward smile and got up from his seat, taking the empty plate with him and rounded the kitchen island to put it in the sink.

"You know, Dick," he started, inching closer to his side. "I checked out online this fighting style you mentioned during our last training, the uh… Okichitaw, yeah. And I'd really like to learn it. Some basics at least."

Dick put the last portion of pancakes - his own - on the plate and turned to the boy with a smile, feeling excitement rising slowly in his chest. He knew what Gar was really trying to do right now - change the course of the conversation, turn it away from him and his hair. Dick couldn't blame him for that. But Gar also wasn't lying, he really was eager to learn and Dick appreciated the fact that he even did a bit of his own research.

"Sure, buddy. We can start right away." he replied instantly and Gar beamed at him, buzzing with happiness. His head twitched in an attempt to get the hair out of his eye. It was clear getting accustomed to that new hairstyle is gonna take longer than the boy expected. Dick chuckled at his annoyed frown when the hair fell back on his face. "Now go get ready, we'll start in an hour."

He reached out to playfully ruffle the boy's hair but when he did, Gar unexpectedly flinched. He froze, his body taut as a string, jaw clenched to bite back a groan of pain. The kitchen suddenly became very quiet, no clattering of cutlery, not even breathing. Dick's hand stilled on the boy's head and he slowly took it away, looking at Gar who again was trying to avoid his eyes. Dick looked back at the other two teens, who sat still as statues in their seats, both nervous and waiting - Rachel was biting her lower lip nervously while Jason's eyes jumped between Dick and Gar, smirk tugging at his lips.

At first he hesitated, but eventually Dick reached out again, slowly and carefully this time and pushed the strand of hair out of the boy's face, tucking what he could behind his ear. The green curtain revealed a nasty long cut travelling in line with his hairline, held together by two small dressing plasters. It already stopped bleeding but it looked deep and was inflamed, the area around it red and swollen.

"Holy shit, Gar! When did this happen?" The man's voice rang out with worry as he stepped closer to take a better look. He brushed his fingers over the wound, his touch feather-light but Gar still twitched a little, face twisting in a grimace. He didn't answer, just looked to the side - right at Rachel - pleading for help with his eyes. Dick followed his gaze.

The girl sighed as she put her fork down and shook her head.

"I told you he was gonna notice." she told her friend. What was even more strange was that Jason actually agreed with her, nodding eagerly.

Confusion is not strong enough of a word to describe what was going on inside Dick's mind right now. How the hell did this happen? Was that during yesterday's training? No, he would notice. After? They had a free evening and he let the kids go out to have some fun in the city. A surge of fierce protectiveness washed over him as his eyes went back to Gar who looked so miserable Dick's heart almost broke on the spot. He let his hand slide under the boy's chin and he gently lifted his face up so their eyes could meet.

"What happened, Gar?" he asked, his voice calm and soft, but not without the tense undertone of someone who is ready to throw some punches with the reason behind that wound. "Who did this to you?"

Gar gulped down, eyes wide in fear and mouth dry, and looked at Rachel again - just a glance, but she noticed anyway.

"Tell him." she encouraged him softly. Gar nodded once and took a deep breath, bracing himself.

"Um, yesterday when… when we were at the mall, me and Rach passed by these guys in SFSU jerseys. Six of them, I think." he started, stumbling through the words. His fingers fumbled nervously with the hem of his t-shirt but he bravely held Dick's gaze as he spoke. "They started catcalling Rachel, saying some gross stuff I am not willing to ever repeat and… and I had to step in."

At first all Dick could hear was static after what he just heard. Then the sense of Gar's words slowly started coming to him and he staggered back.

"What?"

Now it wasn't just protectiveness, it was pure fire raging through Dick's veins. Rachel… getting catcalled? That was unacceptable. Unfathomable. It wasn't just crossing the line, it was breaking it like a dry twig and setting it on fire and whoever did that was really fucking lucky Dick wasn't there to hear it. He let go of Gar's chin and set his hand on his shoulder instead, trying to keep himself from shaking. His other hand already formed into a fist, fingers curled so tightly his knuckles turned white. He instantly looked at Rachel, searching for any signs of something being wrong, a series of questions already forming on his tongue, but she beat him to it and quickly shook her head.

"I'm okay, I swear. Nothing happened."

"You sure?" he insisted, his gut gnawing at him to learn more because maybe they are not telling him everything. "They didn't do anything? You're not hurt? Because I swear to God, if-"

"Dick, I'm okay." was her only reply, soft, quiet and calming.

"She wanted me to ignore them but they were very pushy." Gar continued, his gaze darting between her and Dick. "They surrounded us, one of them got too close to her and got… grabby, so to speak so I punched him."

Grabby? As in… no, that was too much. His fists were now itching to meet that person's face. To rip their insides out and wrap them around their neck. No one dares to lay a damn finger on her. No one.

"Fucking assholes." Jason muttered under his breath, shaking his head. He sent Rachel a sympathetic look and she smiled back at him, thanking silently.

"I would have been fine, I know how to handle myself." she insisted to Gar as she got up from her seat and walked up to him to lay a hand on his shoulder. He instantly turned to her.

"I know, but what was I supposed to do? Just stand there and do nothing? We're Titans now, remember? Men and women not doing nothing."

Dick honestly wanted to hug Gar in that moment, his chest filling with an insane amount of pride. He stood up for her, protected her, even if he got his ass kicked in the end. They can work on that and after what Dick just learned he will make damn sure that they will, but the intention was what mattered the most right now.

He squeezed Gar's shoulder gently and when the boy turned back to him, Dick leaned in to look him in the eyes.

"That was very brave of you, thank you. I'm proud of you, buddy." he said, noticing how Gar's eyes glazed over with tears after hearing the words. The boy chuckled softly, nodding in response. "But how did you get this?" He asked, pointing at his forehead.

"Well, that asshole punched back." Gar stated bluntly, his hand reaching up to scratch the back of his neck. "He knocked me down pretty hard, I hit my head on the edge of a fountain, y'know that giant one in the main hall. I saw stars, for a moment I couldn't move-"

"You scared the hell out of me." Rachel whispered, sliding her arm around his shoulders.

"Sorry." Gar replied, bumping his head with hers. And immediately regretted it, flinching at the pain it caused to his forehead. "Anyway, after that they left us alone, walked away laughing. And before you ask-" he pointed his finger at Dick, seeing that the man was already gearing up to ask questions. "No, I don't know their names and no, you can't go find them and beat the shit out of them. I know you want to."

Dick snickered and shook his forehead.

"Is it that obvious?"

"Dude, you're basically vibrating with fury right now." Jason told him, crossing his arms over his chest. "Ooof, I wouldn't want to be on the other end of that wrath."

Dick decided to ignore his younger brother's remark, but couldn't deny the truth behind it - the fury he felt right now, if unleashed, could be deadly. It pulled a delicate string, knocked on a door he locked when he brought these three kids to San Francisco. It reminded him of the rage and violence of his Robin days. Dick wanted to put it away for good but to be honest it would really come in handy right now.

"I'm sorry," Gar suddenly whispered, which brought Dick back to the present - and caught completely off guard. The boy bowed his head down, letting the hair fall back on his forehead and cover the cut.

"For what?" Dick asked softly, moving his hand to the nape of Gar's neck.

"I should have done more. I would have but the Tiger started showing and… I couldn't risk it so I had to back down."

At first Dick just stared at him, same as Rachel, completely taken aback. Then he opened his arms and smiled at the two teenagers.

"Come here, you two."

He pulled them into his arms, pressing them tightly to his chest. Gar froze at first, surprised but then tucked his face into his shoulder and breathed deeply. Rachel nestled into his other side, he could feel her smiling against his neck when her arms circled his middle. He put his hands in their hair, cradling their heads and pulling them closer as he spoke.

"Gar, you have nothing to apologize for, okay?" he insisted, turning his face to the boy. "You did the right thing. I'm proud of you and you have no idea how happy I am that you were with her back then." When Gar nodded, Dick turned to Rachel and she lifted her head to look at him. "And you. I'm glad you're okay. To be honest, I was scared something like this would happen someday but thankfully Gar was with you. But if it ever happens again, you go straight to me, got it? You shout, you call, whatever means necessary. I'll be there in a heartbeat."

Rachel gave him a single nod, a soft smile turning her lips upwards.

"Yes, sir."

"Good." Dick sighed, finally feeling his anger subsiding and disappearing completely. He pulled back, brushing his palms over the kids' cheeks. He turned to Gar, who again was fiddling with his bangs and reached out to tuck it behind the boy's ear, laughing. "Alright, now let's get you properly patched up, huh? I'm sorry, but whoever did this-" he pointed at the plasters that were barely holding onto the skin. "-did a terrible job."

Jason scoffed, rolling his eyes.

"Ouch, harsh."

[liquidthedefunctblog]

Oh yes, we’re still jumping those sharks. This time Rtas ‘Vadum is serving Shinji Ikari at Burger King.

——————————————————————————————————————————–

The Half-Jaw Rtas ‘Vadum settled at his desk, a mass of paperwork looming over him. He would be lying if he claimed that the Arbiter’s entry of the Swords of Sanghelios into the fast food industry had been any less than a tremendous success. The icy relations between the sangheili and their human counterparts had slowly but surely begun to thaw, and the restaurant had even begun to attract customers from outside of the local area. It truly was incredible what devious marketing could do to make even the simplest of human meals seem like ‘exotic sangheili cuisine’, the Half-Jaw thought. Today alone they had served a group of tourists, a local politician attempting some kind of disingenuous public relations stunt to boost his chances at re-election, and a briefcase carrying older gentleman who managed the impressive feat of simultaneously appearing both frighteningly unseemly and superbly proper. So successful had the venture been that the Arbiter had even seen fit to provide ‘Vadum with additional staff, at least after weeks of pestering from the Shipmaster. ‘Vadum picked a pen from the pot on his desk. An Earth-made pen of course. At first he couldn’t entirely wrap his head around the diminutive instruments, but he was getting used to them. He actually had time to get used to them now that he had other workers to deal wit-

“Shipmaster!”

Other workers like the veteran sangheili blademaster who seemed to have selected ‘Vadum’s office door as his latest victim. The Half-Jaw sighed as the Blademaster’s pounds continued.

“You may enter, Blademaster.”

The door slammed into the wall, chipping the paint slightly. In its place stood an aged sangheili blademaster, his golden armour dulled from years of usage. However the weariness of his armour and body did little to conceal a ferocity in his eyes that would strike fear into even the most hardened of men. This was Vul ‘Soran. The former second in command of 'Vadum’s assault carrier Shadow of Intent, in his prime 'Soran had been a warrior without equal. Even entering his elder years, he had dispatched many of those foolish enough to try and cultivate a reputation through his defeat. Following the end of the Human-Covenant war, the Arbiter had made sure to appoint the legendary warrior to a position fitting of his stature. Assistant manager at a Burger King run by his old shipmaster. The belligerent commander let out a huff, clearly trying to attract said shipmaster’s attention.

“Yes… Blademaster?” the Half-Jaw questioned, his head resting against his hand as though to indicate that he had resigned himself to his fate. 'Vadum held 'Soran in the highest regard imaginable, he genuinely did. This did not mean however that he had to be pleased with his performance as assistant manner. In his short period of employment the veteran had already evicted two customers for what he deemed to be overuse of the condiment dispensers, attempted to fine another for spilling some water, and threatened at least three with his sword for some other vaguely defined offences. Were it not for the humans present one might have mistaken the situation for an evening on the bridge of Shadow of Intent. At the very least this was certainly how 'Soran seemed to interpret his job.

“A young human has been loitering at the window seat. I was prepared to deal with him myself, but Scion 'Juran reminded me that after the last loitering incident you wanted to be consulted on such issues before disciplinary action was taken.”

'Disciplinary action’. That settled the argument about what job the Blademaster thought he was doing then. 'Vadum tapped his helmet in a manner that seemed to suggest he had experienced such an inordinate degree of frustration lately that his mind was simply no longer capable of processing the feeling. At any rate, he would have to remember to thank 'Juran later. She may well have saved that human’s life. At the very least she had saved his limbs.

“Take me to this human, Blademaster. I will make a judgement from there.”

“As you command Shipmaster. Follow me.”

The golden armoured commander turned around and left the office. 'Vadum thought about leaving him to it, but he really couldn’t afford to let 'Soran cause another incident. God only knows what consequences his establishment would already have faced for the Blademaster’s behaviour if its proprietor didn’t have access to a glassing beam. He clenched his hand for a moment before following his assistant manager.

The pair made their way into the public section of the restaurant, and 'Soran gestured to indicate a small human male with a white shirt and black trousers sat at one of the window tables. He seemed uncomfortable, disturbed even, alternating between gazing out the window longingly and staring down at his feet as though attempting to hide his own existence from the outside world.

“How long has passed since his arrival?”

“An hour at the very least.”

“And during that time he has done what? Has he made any purchase at all?”

“Not even a thing. The human arrived, sat down, and hasn’t made a move since. Shall I remove him from the premises now?” the Blademaster growled, reaching for his energy sword. Vul 'Soran was never known for his patience with those who would go against protocol, and the end of the Great War had done little to dull this trait of his. The Half-Jaw knew that there would be no hope of defusing the situation peacefully so long as 'Soran was around.

“Stay your hand Blademaster, I will deal with the human. In the meantime I need you to make a call to some of our suppliers regarding shipments. You’ll find everything you need to know on my desk.”

'Soran grunted bitterly as he began his return journey to the manager’s office.

“I trust that you’ll inflict a punishment on the human befitting of his infraction?”

“I shall do whatever it is that I need to, Blademaster. Now go. I anticipate that the supply dispute will be solved by tomorrow.”

Now that 'Soran had gone, and taken the threat of a bloodbath with him, the Half-Jaw finally saw fit to approach the loiterer. It was a simple procedure really. The physical threat of an almost eight foot sangheili warrior combined with a commanding tone of voice was usually enough to get most disruptive customers to either cease their violations or leave. Despite what his assistant manager seemed to believe, the ignition of an energy sword was not something that needed to be done often. 'Vadum approached the human, who on closer inspection looked to be almost half his height. He didn’t expect a drawn out confrontation here.

“Human. You may make a purchase, or you may leave, but do not continue to abuse our hospitality.”

The human made no clear acknowledgement of the sangheili commander’s words, instead continuing to take in the beautiful view of some cars and a bush that could be seen through the window.

“Human!”

“Huh?!”

This second, firmer address was evidently finally enough to snap the human out of whatever train of thought he was on, and he turned to face the towering sangheili.

“As I have made clear. You may make a purchase, or you may leave, but your continued loitering will not be condoned.”

The panic-stricken male seemed paralysed in fear for a moment, but it was not long before he stumbled around his chair for a bit before lowering his head back towards the ground.

“S-sorry…”

The Shipmaster stood in thought for a moment, crossing his arms. Perhaps he had been too harsh on the human. He had meant to appear firm, not threatening. Besides that, the restaurant’s manager threatening what appeared to be a teenager would be a worse public relations disaster than anything Vul 'Soran could manage. He sighed in frustration before crouching down to the human’s level.

“I am truly sorry if you feel threatened human, that was not my intention. However these tables are reserved for paying customers. Do you or do you not intend to make a purchase?”

“I- No… sorry.” The human said, continuing to shamefully look between at the floor tiles.

'Vadum couldn’t help but feel curious about the young human’s motivations. Most loiterers came in groups, with the goal of disrupting actual customers or simply abusing the staff in some misguided search for retribution regarding the Great War. This one simply sat alone, away from the other patrons and making no attempt to draw attention to himself.

“I see… Well in that case, I am afraid it is company policy that I ask you to leave the premises.”

It was this comment that finally emboldened the human to some degree. He looked directly at the Shipmaster, and it was this that allowed 'Vadum to finally see just how miserable this child was. His blue eyes looked tired, not in the physical sense but rather an emotional one. As though they had been drained of all desire to carry on existing, and were simply continuing to do so out of obligation. The Half-Jaw couldn’t help but feel a swell of pity for the human in this moment. He still didn’t know why he had chosen his establishment of all places to go, but it was now clear that he was trying to escape something, be it an obligation, a person, or something else entirely. And then the human spoke. His voice was still hesitant, but there was a new addition to his tone. Not one of confidence, but of desperation.

“P-please let me stay for a bit longer… I don’t-”

“One moment human,” the Half-Jaw interrupted, standing up and walking towards his office. He felt justified in his interruption. There was no use in letting the human publicly shame himself. He didn’t need to know what he was trying to avoid, it was already clear enough that he wanted to avoid it. 'Vadum wasn’t usually one for charity, especially not for humans. That didn’t make him void of pity however. Sending the human back out would only distress him further, and ultimately be of no use to anyone. Besides that it was late in the day anyway, so it wasn’t as though anyone was in desperate need of the extra table. He grabbed some earth currency that he kept for his own use from his desk, and headed back out. In his haste he completely ignored 'Soran, who simply glared at him in confusion while listening to the supplier waffle on over the phone. The Shipmaster didn’t intend to break company policy by allowing somebody to loiter without purchasing food, but he didn’t see much point in removing the human. He placed the currency on the counter, and looked directly at the sangheili manning the till.

“Prepare a hamburger and fries for the human.”

The other elite gave him a bemused look for a second before punching in the order.

“By your word Shipmaster. Can we have a name for that order?”

The Half-Jaw turned towards the human who had returned his gaze to the window.

“Human! Your name?”

The human turned back around, startled for a moment with an almost confused look on his face.

“Huh?! Oh uh… Shinji Ikari.”

Several hours later the Shipmaster was in the process of putting away the paperwork he had finally finished. After finally getting 'Soran to leave his office he had actually had a fairly productive few hours, and had managed to finish the whole lot half an hour before the restaurant was scheduled to close for the day. The whole operation was going unusually smoothly. At least it was until a furious Vul 'Soran appeared once more in his office doorway.

“Shipmaster! The human is still there.”

“He is a customer now is he not?”

“That was hours ago!”

'Vadum shook his head in a subtle manner. He really did wish 'Soran would stop treating the most minor of infractions as though they were capital offences.

“Do not worry Blademaster. I will have him leave the premises by closing time.”

“You made the same claim previously Shipmaster. With all due respect, should you fail to do so again I shall be forced to take matters into my own hands.”

“Yes, yes. I am sure that you would.”

The Half-Jaw passed 'Soran and left the office, partly to get away from his incessant complaining, and partly to ensure that the human went on his way before the Blademaster became violent. He walked back into the public area to see the human still sitting in the window seat. He didn’t seem quite as despaired as before, and had evidently stood up at least once to dispose of the packaging from his lunch. Perhaps this wouldn’t be so difficult after all.

“Ikari was it? The establishment is closing for the day in half an hour; I would suggest that you leave soon.”

Shinji turned to look at him, nervousness once more overtaking his face as he realised the time.

“Y-yes sir. I’ll be sure to leave by then. Can I please just stay for a little bit longer?”

'Vadum considered bringing up the loitering policy, but figured it wasn’t worth it. There was only half an hour left anyway. He would solve the issue as he had done before.

“'Rodam! Prepare a basic ice cream for the human. We need to get some use out of the machine anyway.”

“Thanks… for the lunch too.” Shinji said, quietly and nervously.

“Do not concern yourself with it. I must ask though; why are you so eager to remain here?”

“It’s uh… it’s nice here. There’s nobody around an-”

“Does the human mean to insinuate that we are a failing establishment?” cried out Vul 'Soran, who was currently busy cleaning unoccupied tables, though seemingly more so with listening in to Shinji and 'Vadum’s conversation. The human male’s face turned red with embarrassment and a hint of fear.

“N-no sorry that’s not what I was saying…”

“Ignore him,” said the Half-Jaw. “You may continue.”

“I meant that there’s nobody here I know. I don’t have any responsibilities here, and nobody feels responsible for me.”

“And how did you find yourself here to begin with?”

“I uh, I ran off… Everyone there hates me anyway, so I figured they’d be better off if I left.”

“I see… and what drove you to this conclusion?”

“I uh- I mean I never did anything for anyone else. Whenever they had problems I just hid away until they figured it out themselves. I guess that’s my solution to most problems. Avoid everything until it goes away.”

“So Ikari… I believe the point you are trying to convey is that you hate yourself?”

“I… I guess so. But it’s justified hate right? I’m a terrible person. All I do is use other people to make me happy. I try to force them to love me because I can’t love myself, but then as soon as something happens to them I just run away. I don’t deserve to exist…”

“Perhaps that is so, human. But have you made any effort to solve that problem?”

“I- no, I just told you that. All I do is hide…”

Shinji buried his head between his arms and his legs. Sobbing noises came from within. The Half-Jaw decided to soften his approach, to an extent at least. He didn’t endorse Ikari’s attempts to avoid any meaningful interaction with others, but he wasn’t cruel enough to attack him for it.

“You know Ikari, for thousands of years the title of 'Arbiter’ has been bestowed upon certain Sangheili of great significance. The first Arbiters were the most wise and skilled warriors of all Sanghelios. Part king, part judge, they led the species through even the most turbulent of times. The title in this state lasted even after the formation of the Covenant. It was the very highest badge of honour imaginable to our people. That is until Arbiter Fal 'Chavamee rejected the lies of the prophets. 'Chavamee was branded a heretic, and upon his death the prophets saw fit to remould the role of Arbiter. From then on it would granted only to those deemed heretics. These 'heretics’ would be expected to redeem themselves by giving their life in battle for the Covenant.”

Shinji’s sobbing grew even more frequent. 'Vadum assumed that he had misinterpreted the story to be his way of saying that he could only find redemption in death. Perhaps it was a poor decision to tell this story at all, especially with the wounds of the Great War still fresh in humanity’s mind. But the point of no return was long past.

“That was not the point I was making Ikari. If you would allow me to finish the story, I was going to tell of Thel 'Vadam, the present Arbiter and leader of the Sangheili. I served in 'Vadam’s fleet for some time before his appointment as Arbiter. His faith in the prophets was unwavering, and his campaigns on their behalf were ruthless. I can only imagine how he felt when he was branded a heretic and stripped of his positions. As you may have guessed, 'Vadam was appointed Arbiter. He was expected to die in service of the prophets, as his predecessors did before him. But with time 'Vadam saw through their lies. When the prophets betrayed the Sangheili it was him who led us to join with humanity. Since the war he has made every effort to push for unity. Not only between the divided Sangheili factions, but with humanity and the former species of the Covenant. The Arbiter overcame the worthlessness that had been put upon him by the Covenant, and in doing so he restored the honour to his title. Do not assume that sacrifice is the only path to redemption Ikari. Find your own purpose; do not rely on those around you to give you one. Then you can open yourself to the viewpoints of others. Assist them with their struggles, do not push yourself away. There is pain to be found in forming relationships with others. Even the Arbiter could not unify all the people of the galaxy. But there is no joy to be found in wallowing in your failures, and you will never achieve true satisfaction until you grant those around you a glimpse into your true feelings, and allow yourself to take a glimpse of theirs. Fulfil your responsibilities, both to yourself and to them, and perhaps then you will find that yes, you do deserve to exist.”

Shinji raised his head and looked at the Half-Jaw.

“You- you really think so? But I can’t do that.”

“You will have to. Open yourself to others. Allow yourself to engage in meaningful interaction. Then, and only then, you will find worth in your existence. And besides that, I do not believe that you cannot. After all, you did here did you not?”

“I- I guess so…” Shinji said. He wiped his eyes on his arm, and stood up. “Thank you.”

The Half-Jaw nodded at the boy, slightly proud that his tangential story had made any positive impact at all.

“Think nothing of it. Now return to wherever it is you came from. Take your responsibilities head on, and open yourself to your fellow humans. Farewell Ikari.”

“I- yeah… Thank you.”

And with that the human boy left, placing the wrapper from his ice cream cone in the bin as he did so. The Shipmaster on the other hand turned and headed back to his office to finish the filing. Perhaps this fast food business wasn’t as pointless as he had thought.

————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Yup, now it’s a Halo and Evangelion crossover nobody wanted.

[starlxghtmoon]

Spread Your Wings || Chapter One

Pairing: Hawks x Reader || Tangled AU

Warnings: None!

Word Count: 2,000+ words

A/N: I’m super nervous about this, but excited! Sorry if this first part is boring, it’s supposed to act as an introduction and I tried to add more feeling to it than just happiness all around ajbfkjabkjawoifn but whoever reads this shitty fic of mine, I hope you enjoy!

Disclaimer: I do not own BNHA or Tangled, both and all characters except OCs [Mimi the cat] belong to their respective creators. This is purely creative fun.

Chapter Two

Masterlist

An elderly hooded woman approached the shrub with caution, looking around to see if anyone had followed her before pulling back her hood and uncovered the mysterious object. Underneath sat a golden flower, it looked ethereal with the way it softly glowed in the night; many tales have been made about this flower, some say it bloomed from a droplet of the sun that fell to the earth and could cure any illness, heal any wound. But the woman who was selfishly hoarding it, used it to stall her own time with a simple song.

“Flower, gleam and glow.” 

The flower began to glow brighter as she sang her song in her old worn voice.

“Let your power shine.

Make the clock reverse.

Bring back what once was mine.

What once was mine.”

As she finished her song, her aged voice grew rich and light, a satisfied smile tugging at her lips as her appearance shifted back to her younger days, gray going black. But the sound of shouts and flickering lights interrupted her serenity and in her rush to hide the flower once more and hide her own identity, she knocked over the shrub disguise, uncovering the flower for the guards approaching her spot to find.

“We found it!” A guard called out, commencing the uprooting of the magical flower, bringing it to the ill queen and healing her sickness. Soon after a princess would be born with snow white hair and e/c eyes.

However one evening, that same woman would sneak into the king and queen’s quarters where the baby peacefully slept, needing the flower’s magic to stall her mortal time once more.

“Flower, gleam and glow.”

She began to sing again in her croaky voice, the baby girl’s hair, white as snow began to glow a soft f/c. The woman leaned in, reaching out for a strand of her pure white hair, the effects of the magic flower already doing it’s work on the woman’s body. 

“Let your power shine.

Make the clock…”

The woman cut a strand of her hair as it glowed, but it immediately lost its power, the strand of hair changing from stark white to h/c. And since she’d cut her own song short, the magic didn’t take, reverting her back to her aged self. Gasping out of shock, the woman had no other choice than to take the baby.

As the child let out a cry, the woman scooped up the baby and made her escape, the sound of the baby’s cries awoke the king and queen, sending them both into a panic as the woman stole away the baby, disappearing into the night.

Restlessly, the kingdom searched and searched for the princess, but deep in the forest, hidden away in a tower, the woman would raise the girl as her own. Determined to keep her new flower hidden.

However, as well as the woman could keep the girl hidden, she couldn’t hide the outside from her as each year on her birthday, lanterns would be released into the night sky in hopes that the lost princess would return. And that lost princess was...you.

The shutters of the tower were swung open, as you grinned mischievously and looked around out the window. In the corner of your eye, you caught sight of a fluffy black tail swishing around behind one of the potted plants. You slapped a hand over your mouth and snorted softly before getting an idea and a mischievous glint to your eye. Straightening up and crossing your arms, you nonchalantly shrugged and looked away.

“Well, I guess Mimi isn’t out here.” You spoke, easing the midnight creature outside your window, making her let her guard down before suddenly she was yanked up by her tail, letting out a distressed meow. “Gotcha!” You exclaimed with an amused laugh. Letting the cat down from your trap of hair, you began to add on, “That’s 22 for me. How about 23 out of 45?” The cat grumbled in response, “Okay. Well, what do you wanna do?” The cat perked up at that question, letting out a gleeful meow and turning to the outside of the window, pawing out with a suggestive nod. “Yeah. I don’t think so.” You picked up the cat and swung your legs around to dangle out the window, placing the ball of fur in your lap. “I like it in here, and so do you.” Pointing at the cat, she stared up at you unimpressed. “Don’t look at me like that, you’re literally a cat. You should like being inside with me.” Mimi’s ears drew back in distaste. She did like being inside, but she also adored you and wanted you to have a taste of the outside world too. You've been cooped up in this place for 18 years straight, c’mon! “Oh, come on, Mimi. It’s not so bad in there.” You scritched behind her ear, eliciting a purr from deep within the cat’s chest before you pulled the cat into your chest and slid back inside.

You climbed up onto the roof beams, preparing for the morning and opening up the ceiling shutters before swinging back down with your hair. You then glanced over at the clock on her wall and began your day with your usual routine.

“Seven a.m. the usual morning lineup.”

Fetching the broom, you started with sweeping up the floors.

“Start on the chores and sweep till the floor’s all clean.”

Next, you equipped yourself with a mop and scrubbers to continue on with your chores. If you didn’t, you’d surely die of boredom. Not that you didn't already suffer from basically being a bird trapped in the cage you called home.

“Polish and wax, do laundry and mop and shine up.”

At least you had Mimi there to keep your spirits up as you swept around the tower again, checking the clock again with a slight roll of your eyes.

“Sweep again and by then it’s like, 7:15.”

It only took you a good 15 minutes to do all that? Sighing a little, you continued on with busying yourself. What a drag.

“And so I’ll read a book or maybe two or three.

I’ll add a few new paintings to my gallery.”

You knew you were running out of space on the walls, but you could always find nifty places and open spots to paint. One day you might run out of room and as morbid as it sounded, the thought did cross your mind that you’d even expire here. But you hoped you wouldn’t, you stayed optimistic that you’d be able to leave the nest and fly. Until then, you’d continue busying yourself around the tower, counting the hours and days… maybe even years. Hopefully your activities would help distract you from those spiraling thoughts as well, it was for the better that you were stuck here, right?

“I’ll play guitar and knit and basically,

Just wonder when will my life begin?”

As you pulled a freshly baked pie out of the oven, you spotted the perfect spot to paint on the wall, measuring it up with your hands. 

Busting out your paint, you shoved the decorative piece aside and began painting. Filling the spot with soft blue paint as a base and planning out what you'd put there.

“Then after lunch it’s puzzles and darts and baking.

Papier-mache, a bit of ballet and chess.”

At this point, you were just annoying Mimi with your various different hobbies you picked up. Internally cackling at her torment. But none of it was malicious, Mimi loved you and you loved Mimi, she was your only solace here. One would never abandon the other. Your bond was unbreakable. 

“Pottery and ventriloquy, candle-making.

Then I’ll stretch,

Maybe sketch,

Take a climb,

Sew a dress.”

Mimi was absolutely over it and exhausted when you put her in a minidress resembling yours. She lowkey loved it, but it just wasn’t right. Cats weren’t supposed to wear dresses, but Mimi sure looked adorable in one!

“And I’ll reread the books if I have time to spare.

I’ll paint the walls some more

I’m sure there’s room somewhere.”

Now you were really getting stuck, looking for spots was slowly becoming more and more impossible. You sighed a little, slowly the same old same old was beginning to eat away at you. Grumbling a little, you decided to instead distract yourself with brushing your lengthy hair.

“And then I’ll brush

And brush and brush

And brush my hair.

Stuck in the same place I’ve always been.”

Finishing up brushing the ends of your hair, you sat there for a moment, breathing out a puff of air. You looked around from your seat upon the beams of the roof. The space was big and anyone would be comfy in a home like this. Right, a home, not a tower. You were a caged bird. And you certainly had the ability to leave, you could do whatever you wanted with your 70 foot long hair... but would you? Probably not, you wouldn’t dare betray your mother. Besides, the world was a dangerous place, your mother said so multiple times. But… you longed for something more. To feel the grass on your feet, feel the wind flow through your hair, swim in the water, explore the world and… see the floating lights that never failed to appear on your birthday every year.

"And I'll keep wondering and wondering

And wondering and wondering

When will my life begin?"

You approached the open window of the tower, longingly looking out at the scenery before you and sighing softly. Tomorrow you'd turn 18. For a moment, you wondered how many more birthdays you'd have to spend locked away, with so many questions and curiosities.

"Tomorrow night the lights will appear

Just like they do on my birthday each year."

You rested your cheek within your palm, leaning on the window sill as your gaze swooped around the trees and hills surrounding the tower. Your heart ached for more than what you had here and in a way, it made you feel guilty. Your mother did everything for you, she sheltered you, she fed you, she gave you a home and unconditional love. Sure, she was harsh and brash sometimes, but she only wanted the best for you, she wanted to keep you safe. She was protecting you and your gift. You wouldn't survive without her. At least, that’s what you believed.

"What is it like out there where they glow

Now that I'm older.

Mother might just let me go."

You put the finishing touches on that painting you'd been working on, you were jealous of your own artwork. The depiction you'd made of yourself watching the floating lights with pure amazement and wonder. You placed your hand on the dry paint, brows furrowing in frustration. Why do you feel so guilty for something you want?

"Wow, I could get used to a view like this." His stop on the roof caught the attention of the two men with him. The dark haired one of the two rolled his eyes in annoyance.

"So could I-! I've seen better." The masked man with them commented, switching from amazement to stuck up. His outburst made the dark haired one immediately hush him, the masked man slapping his hands over his mouth.

"Do you wanna get caught or something?" 

"Sorry, Dabi." He spoke lower this time, making Dabi shake his head a little in dismissal before redirecting his attention to the other man with them who continued to stare at the view. 

"Hawks. We gonna do this or what?"

"Hold on." He made him pause, Dabi rose a brow, heavily annoyed and completely fed up with his antics. "Yep. I'm used to it. Guys, I want a castle." Hawks placed his hands on his hips, still admiring the view.

"We do this job, you can buy your own damn castle. Yeah?" Dabi stepped forward, grabbing the blonde by his collar and yanking him back.

Dabi and Twice securely held onto the rope, carefully lowering Hawks down into the crown room. If it were up to Dabi, he would've dropped his ass for the guards to take, but they needed that damn crown and he was gonna get it. 

One of the guards sneezed and Hawks let out a mocking groan, "Hay fever?" The guard looked over his shoulder, not noticing that he was there.

"Yeah." He looked back in front of him before realization dawned on him, "Huh?" He whipped around, the crown and Hawks gone. His gaze darted up, but they were already gone and so was the lost princess's crown.

"Can't you picture me in a castle of my own? Cause I certainly can." The trio sprinted away from the castle, Dabi ignoring Hawks with a roll of his eyes as Twice switched back and forth between approval and disapproval. "All the things we've seen and it's only eight in the morning! Gentlemen, this is a very big day!" 

"Would you shut up already!"

"Yeah, shut up, Hawks! No! Be louder!"

"Ugh…"

[salvejoon]

Life is Beautifully Ugly (At Times) - pjm | 01

⇒ Warnings for this chapter: Death of minor characters, mentions of a car accident, losing a loved one, a child being orphaned, cursing, Jimin being an ass, reader being a bitch.

⇒ A/N: Hey lovelies! I’m back-ish! I’ve been working on this project for months now and I’ve finally found my muse again and so I got to writing more and more chapters for this. Please enjoy the first chapter of hopefully my first series (but not my last). xoxo

“Imo!” Your head shot up at the happy squeal and you bent down to one knee, opening your arms, almost toppling over at the force your niece ran into you.

“Oof!” Your arms closed around her and she buried her nose in your hair as her arms went around your neck, “Hello my pretty little flower.” You drew back and nuzzled her nose with yours to which she frowned. 

“I’ve grown 1 inch so I’m not little anymore.” 

“You’ll always be my pretty little flower, Hyejin. No matter how tall you get.” You picked her up as you stood, groaning briefly as you adjusted her on your hip, “But you are getting a little bit heavy.”

Hyejin giggled, “Appa also says I’m getting heavy. Says his back hurts.” 

“That’s because your Appa is getting old.” 

A hum came from the doorway and you saw Han, your brother-in-law, standing there, looking dapper in a black and white tux, his natural black hair swept back from his face, “You’re the one to talk, Y/N. You’re closer to 30 than I am.” 

You rolled your eyes, “No need to remind me, Han.” You said just as your younger sister, Charlotte gently pushed Han out of the doorframe, looking a little bit frantic, “Missing something?” You asked her as she walked over to the vanity, opening several drawers.

“My watch.”

“The one laying right in front of you?” 

Charlotte sighed heavily as her eyes landed upon her watch, “Thanks.” 

“What would you do without me?” You smirked as she walked over to you and took Hyejin from your arms and her daughter protested with a small whine.

“Can’t I go with you, Eomma?” She asked and glanced longingly at you and her father, “I also want to go to the ball and look pretty.” 

Charlotte chuckled and kissed her forehead, “Another time, baby. This is for grown-ups only.” 

“Why is it always only for adults? I want to go too!” She protested loudly, crossing her arms and pouted.

You ruffled her hair, “How about you and I play dress-up tomorrow, hm? How does that sound? I’ve bought new shoes you can try.” You winked at her and Hyejin’s pout slowly vanished. 

“Can I put make-up on you, Imo?” 

“Sure.” 

Charlotte put her down and bent down just as the doorbell rang, gently wiping her daughter’s hair back from her face, “You be good to Mrs. Shin, okay? We’ll be back before you know it.”

“Yes, Eomma.” 

You absentmindedly stared out the window as the limousine drove through one of the high-end districts of Seoul. Closed off ground containing High-Rise buildings towered the streets and in between, they were grand mansions. 

You felt out of place here, in this part of town.

You preferred Han and Charlotte’s apartment in the more affordable part of Seoul. 

“Y/N.”

You hummed at the sound of your sister’s voice.

“Promise me you’ll be nice.” 

You shifted your gaze to her and raised a brow, “When am I not nice?” You asked and shook your head when Charlotte sent you a knowing look, “Oh please. Just because he’s going to be there doesn’t mean I won’t be nice.”

Han snorted, “The last time you saw each other, it ended up in the tabloids.” 

You glared at him and tch’ed, “Your brother called me - me - a prude, and I simply wanted him to teach him some manners.”

“You don’t teach someone manners by threatening them, Y/N.” Came the rational voice of Charlotte. 

This time you snorted and rolled your eyes, “Wow, you two really take his side.” 

“We are not but you two should bury that hatchet, whatever it is. He is actually nice once you get to know him.” 

“He’s a conceited asshole that needs to be beaten down a peg or ten. There is nothing nice about him.”

“Y/N…”

“Yeah, yeah.”

There was once a time where you would have taken in the beautiful surroundings of the ballroom with all it’s marble and gold, tall doors, and crystal chandeliers and would have felt like a princess. 

But this wasn’t your first rodeo at a gathering such as this nor would it be your last. 

You hated them now. Well, not hated but found them so superficial because all it was was rich people prancing around with their noses in the air while they had a pissing contest of who had the most money, the fastest car, the grandest of mansions, or the youngest wife.

“Smile.” Charlotte noted as she sat down next to you, followed by Han who had finally managed to break free of one of the old ladies' claws, no doubt talking about finances.

You plastered on a fake smile but said smile quickly vanished when you spotted a familiar face approaching the table. 

You tried to hide your scowl as the man came up to the table, dressed in a burgundy-colored suit that cost more than what you earned in a year, his ears adorned with silver dangling earrings with matching diamond rings on his fingers. The last time you had seen him, he’d donned blonde hair but now it was gray and it was swept back neatly, showing off his face. 

And he had a new chick on his arm.

No surprise there.

Park Jimin was one of the biggest fuckboys you knew, if not the biggest. 

He dragged his eyes from his date to you and a knowing smirk spread on his lips when he saw your scowl. No doubt he was already planning various ways to piss you off. 

“Jimin. Nice of you to show up…” Charlotte glanced at her wristwatch, “20 minutes later than we agreed upon but it’s better than an hour like last time.” 

Jimin removed his eyes from you and looked at your sister with an innocent smile, “I apologize, Charlotte. Things dragged out at the board meeting.” The woman on his arm tugged at it, “And may I introduce Jisoo. My date.” 

Han bowed his head and your sister smiled sweetly at her and you… Well, you ignored them. 

That was until Charlotte jabbed you in the ribs, “Ow! Hi, whatever.” You grumbled, glaring at her before meeting Jisoo’s smiling face and forced your lips upwards. 

“As formal as ever, Y/N.” Jimin drawled before sitting down across from you, his smirk back on his lips, “Where is your date?” 

“I came alone.” You answered stiffly. 

He scoffed and leaned back in his chair, “As usual.” 

Arrogant asshole. 

“At least I’m not fucking my way through the female population of Seoul.” 

Jisoo opened her mouth to object but a tap on the mic shut all of you up and you just aimed a glare at him. He met you with one of his own. The tension rose at the table and you heard your brother-in-law sigh softly. 

“It’s going to be a long evening.” You heard him murmur. 

The hours dragged on and so far you’d listened to four long speeches, three performances by some musicians you had never heard of, and had Charlotte remind you of your promise ten times.

You found yourself sitting alone at the table, date-less while your sister was out dancing with Han and Jimin had vanished. 

Probably aiming the money-shot between his date’s breasts.

The image of that left a bad taste in your mouth, so you focused on the dancing people on the floor.

You could easily find a willing dance partner. There were loads of young bachelors at such an event like this but they were so boring to you. You didn’t care about numbers, board meetings, or future merges. Charlotte had given up trying to set you up long ago since you scared most of them away. 

You deemed your independence a part of your charm. Charlotte didn’t agree. 

The ironic part was that the only man here, that could keep up with you, was an arrogant dickwad with a stick so far up his ass, he could pick his teeth with it. 

And he was probably fucking his date at the toilet. There you go again with those thoughts. 

“Ugh.” You shuddered and willed the images away as you picked up your wine glass and took a sip. The best thing about these events was the free booze. 

Too bad you weren’t allowed to get hammered because the last time you got shitfaced, you had dragged Jimin by his collar, trying to get him outside so you could ‘rearrange that stick’. The tabloids had a field day with that instance. It hadn’t been the first time you had threatened to kick his ass and you doubted it would be the last. 

Jimin just knew how to push the right buttons. 

“No one has asked you for a dance yet?” 

Your left eye twitched in annoyance, “No. Not yet. Are you offering?” You asked as you looked at Jimin with a raised brow. 

“No. I prefer my dance partners to be more… graceful. I don’t like getting stepped on.” 

“But I can be graceful, Jimin.” 

“Oh? When?” He asked as he sat down in the chair and crossed his legs. 

“When I step on your throat, choking the life out of you.” 

“Kinky, Y/N. I didn’t know you had it in you.” 

You scoffed and leaned back in your chair, “Where’s your date? Recovering from having your filthy hands on her body?”

“And if she is?” 

“Then tell her I know a therapist.” 

Jimin threw you a glare, one you returned with an unimpressed, bored look, “She’s in the restroom.” 

“Trying to wash away her sins, no doubt.”

“Are you jealous, Y/N? You seem oddly fixated on my sexual interactions.” 

You picked up your wine glass and shrugged, “For me to be jealous, Jimin, it would require I had some sort of feelings for you, which I do not other than absolute disgust.” You downed the rest of the wine that was in the glass, deciding you were done entertaining him, “And I’d undoubtedly get more satisfaction by watching old men dance with their young wives than having sex with you.” With that you rose from the table. You flicked a strand of hair over your shoulder as you put your bag on the table, “Now be a good boy and look after my belongings.” 

“Where are you going?” He asked stiffly. 

“To dance, of course. Might step on a toe or two but what the hell.” 

Your escape from the table hadn’t gone as smoothly as you had hoped because Charlotte and Han were nowhere to be found, the men that had approached you were either 60 and above and the bartender hadn’t seemed particularly keen on entertaining you with small talk. So you opted to venture outside instead. 

The air was chilly and you shivered a little, rubbing your arms to regain some heat as you looked up. The sky was clear and the stars twinkled while the moon showered the ground in it’s white glow. It was a pretty evening, really. You had the sudden urge to just lay down on the grass and stargaze. 

You felt something heavy being draped over your shoulders and you turned around to see a pair of dimples and a bright smile. 

You knew those dimples.

And that smile.

Those kind, warm, honeyed eyes. 

Your heart sped up. 

Before you could open your mouth to greet him, Namjoon booped your nose, “Thought I saw you dash outside. Are you avoiding me?” 

You shoved his shoulder, albeit gently with a smile on your lips, “Duh. Of course, I am avoiding you.” 

He frowned, “The sex can’t have been that bad.” He pouted.

You rolled your eyes, “It was terrible. Absolutely terrible.” 

“You really know how to hurt a man's pride, Y/N.” He chuckled and enveloped you in a tight hug, “I’ve missed you.” 

“I’ve missed you too, Joonie. I haven’t seen you in, what, 3 months?” You drew back, “I didn’t know you were attending the fundraiser.”

Namjoon kept his arms around your waist as he sheepishly smiled down at you, “I wasn’t planning on attending since I am so busy lately but when Han told me you’d be here, I had to come.” 

“Aw, my little Joonie bug.” 

He let go of you and you stepped back, “So how is the partnership coming along?” You asked, standing next to him, “Charlotte told me you’ve been super duper uber busy.” 

He sighed, “I have been so fucking busy and work has just been taking up all of my time and I am so tired of it.”

“Oh, Joonie.”

“But I can now call myself partner and a board member of Kim & Co Lawyers.” 

You squealed, your arms finding purchase around his neck as you jumped up and down of excitement, “OH MY GOD! CONGRATULATIONS!” 

Big hand engulfed your face and squished, “Thank you but calm down, sprout. No reason to entertain the whole neighborhood.”

“Buf u gos te parfership.”

“Yes.”

“lso yo ar ruinf te makuf.”

“I am fully aware of that, sprout.” 

“Le gof.”

He chuckled and let go of your face, placing his hands on your shoulders instead, “Thank you. But how are you? Charlotte told me you’d be expanding the brand soon.”

You grinned and nodded, “Yes! I am so excited but at the same time also a little sad. That shop has been my bread and butter for 4 years now but it was about time I listened to my sister and expanded… With the help of some investors, of course.” 

“Well, I am looking forward to seeing you take over the world, Y/N.” 

You snorted and grabbed his hand, “Pfft, I think I’ll just deal with getting my designs on the interwebz first and see how that goes. Now let’s go get some wine and talk shit about other people.” 

“There you are!” You and Namjoon halted your conversation as Charlotte appeared between you, “We’ve been looking for you.”

You smiled sheepishly, “Sorry, sis.”

She glared but there was a teasing glint in her eyes, “Joonie has a habit of stealing your time.” 

“I’m like the most important man in her life, what did you expect?” Namjoon rolled his eyes as Charlotte bumped his shoulder, “Not in the way you want, woman.” 

Your sister huffed and shook her head, “What do I have to pay you to marry Y/N? Seriously, you’re like the only guy that can keep up with her shit and not want to run away.”

“Who says I don’t want to run away?” 

You slapped his arm that was draped over the bar counter, “Fuck you. You love me.” 

“I do but not enough to get my dick wet.” 

“That monster you call a dick wouldn’t fit anyway.” 

“Thank you, I guess, for calling it a monster, Y/N, but I would have made it fit. Preparation is key.” 

“That’s what I keep saying. Foreplay is an important part of-”

“Alright, I clearly interrupted something here so I would just like to give you the heads up and Han and I are going home.” Charlotte interrupted you and leaned in to kiss you on the cheek, “He’s drunk and I was getting tired anyway.” 

“Sure. I’ll see you back home.” You said, wiping at your cheek before turning it towards Namjoon, “Do I have a stain?”

He shook his head before accepting a peck on his cheek from Charlotte, “Nope. Looking smooth as always.” 

“You make sure she gets home safely, Joonie.”

“You have nothing to worry about.”

“And not too late, okay?”

“Bye Charlotte! Love you!” You called as she wandered off, dragging a swaying Han with her towards the entrance.

Jimin sat at the table, Jisoo at his side. He had tuned most of her blabbering out, finding the topic ‘what shoes to wear to her friend’s wedding’ quite boring. Instead, his eyes were trained on the dance floor where not many people were dancing. 

More specifically you and Namjoon that was talking more than dancing and he saw you smile, laughing at how your dance partner seemed to trip over his own feet. 

He scoffed. 

“Are you listening to what I’m saying, baby?”

“Of course, Jisoo. The red pair of shoes sounds good.” 

His phone vibrated in his pocket and he fished it out, eyes narrowing at the number, he swiped his thumb across the screen.

“Yes?” He said. 

“Jimin, hey, it’s Seokjin.” 

“I could see on the caller-id.”

There was a brief pause and Jimin held up a hand to silence Jisoo when she yanked at his arm. Then there was a beeping sound and the sound of doors being banged open, “Jin, what’s going on?”

“Sorry about that… I don’t know how to say this but you need to come to the hospital.”

“Why?” 

“It’s your brother. Jimin, you need to come and quick.” 

His throat felt as dry as sandpaper as he stood up and hung up, eyes darting to your dancing and laughing form on the dancefloor. 

“Jimin, baby, where are you going?” Jisoo asked him as he took a step, her hands clinging onto his wrist. 

“S-Sorry, I have somewhere I need to be.” He answered, his voice shaky, “I’ll arrange for someone to take you home.” 

“Wait!” She called out as he ran towards you.

You were laughing so hard at how Namjoon had just tripped over his own two feet again when Jimin appeared, seemingly out of nowhere, grabbing your wrist, “What the fuck?” 

“Fun time is over.” Jimin said and tugged you with him as he headed towards the exit.

You yanked your wrist free, Namjoon appearing at your side, “Um no, it isn’t. What’s with you?” You asked him. 

Jimin looked at you and Namjoon, “Y/N.” You raised a brow at the tone of his voice… He sounded scared, “We have to go now.” 

“Did something happen?” You immediately grew worried because Jimin never sounded scared. 

“Seokjin just called me and… Something happened with Han and Charlotte.” 

You had never felt such fear. 

The ride to the hospital was tense and quiet. Jimin drove like a maniac through the streets of Seoul while Namjoon had tagged along as support. The two men sat in the front of the car, exchanging no words whatsoever, leaving you to your thoughts running rampant. 

Then you arrived at the hospital and everything happened so quickly.

A drunk driver collided with their limousine.

Their driver was killed on impact. 

Charlotte and Han were in critical condition.

You had no idea how much time had passed from when you had arrived to when you were sitting on the chair outside the ward, Jimin prancing back and forth like a caged animal.

Then the doctor appeared from the ward and Namjoon was quick to leave your side, going to talk to him.

You stood up, watching as they talked and you felt Jimin’s presence next to you.

Time seemed to slow down when your eyes locked with Namjoon’s, the sadness in his eyes conveying the message you had yet to receive but you knew. 

They were gone. 

You could feel someone wrap their arms around you as you tumbled to the floor, your own piercing wail deaf to your ears as you felt your chest implode on itself with heartbreak. 

Jimin struggled to keep you upright as you collapsed, your cries so very loud in his ears but it didn’t matter. He felt like he couldn’t breathe. He didn’t need to hear why you had broken down. It was clear as day by the way Namjoon looked. 

His brother was gone. Your sister was gone. Both of them were gone. 

You cried out her name and Jimin tightened his hold on you when you tried to crawl away from him. 

He might not like you and you may not like him but he knew that you should not go through this pain alone. So when you clutched his shirt so tightly in your balled fists, your cries finally lowering to whimpering and you buried your head in his chest, Jimin held you tight.

The feeling of time was lost on you when you entered Han and Charlotte’s apartment. Your mind was empty and you were pretty sure your heart had stopped beating. 

Mrs. Shin appeared as you took off your shoes and placed your purse on a small table. She looked puzzled upon seeing you, and only you, return. 

“Where is…” She trailed off as you grabbed her hand. 

“They’re gone.” Was all you said and her shoulders sagged as she moved her free hand to cover her mouth, “Is she sleeping?”

“She is.” 

You nodded and walked past her, down the hall, towards Hyejin’s room. The door was slightly ajar and you slowly opened it, finding her room dark except for a small lamp in the corner. 

She hated the dark.

Like Charlotte. 

You felt tears stream down your cheeks at the thought of your sister but willed them away. You had to be strong now for Hyejin. 

Nothing else mattered.

Hyejin woke up when her mattress shifted and she turned her head, rubbing one eye, “Eomma?” 

“No, honey. It’s me.” 

She sat up, looking puzzled, “Where’s Eomma? She always comes to kiss me goodnight.” 

You opened your arms and closed them around her tiny frame, “I know.” You placed your head upon hers and took a deep breath, “Listen, sweetie…”

[112aang]

Kataang Week 2021: Day 1- Reunion

7 days filled with 7 prompts, all about Kataang. Here is my first submission for this year’s Kataang Week, ‘Reunion.’ 

Words: 1,836

You can find my ff.net page here, where each day’s entry will be posted, as well as my other stories.

----------------------------------------

Katara stood, staring blankly out of the window into the dark, night sky of the Southern Air Temple. She watched as a few air acolytes walked the grounds, tidying up before going to bed.

She had been alone, without him, for two months and was feeling withdraw take over. They had been married for almost two years, and had decided to settle down in his childhood home after the wedding. She had to repeatedly remind herself that he was the Avatar, therefore he wouldn’t always be around; he belonged to the world, not to her. But that didn’t make it any easier on her heart.

Aang had been helping Sokka and Zuko plan and build Republic City off and on for about a year. But two months ago, he was called to the city and hadn’t returned. Katara had guessed that something came up- something that required assistance that only the Avatar could provide. She had received a message by hawk a month into his absence, stating that he would need to stay longer than originally planned, but nothing more- no explanation, and no prediction of exactly how long. She became worried; terrified that something had happened to her husband.

As she looked out into the darkness, her gaze rose, falling on the almost full moon. She thought of Yue, and of her brother. Katara’s mind hadn’t gone that direction in years, but in that moment, she wondered how much Sokka missed the white-haired woman. Of course, he had been married to Suki for almost five years, but did he ever think about Yue? About his first love- the woman whom he couldn’t have.

She sighed, lowering her gaze again, setting it on the stars. Katara loved the Southern Air Temple and the views it provided, especially at night. Their bedroom was at the top of a tower, overlooking the entire temple. From her window, she could see everything- from the courtyard, to the bison resting platform, to the air ball court. The waterbender smiled wistfully, thinking of Aang, and of the first time she had seen the temple.

At first glance, it looked shattered, forgotten in time. But as her eyes fell on the young airbender, she could see the liveliness that had once been, laying under the rubble. His energy radiated off the fallen walls and broken concrete, almost patching them up completely.

When he had asked her if they could settle in the home he once knew, she didn’t even have to think twice about her answer. The air acolytes had been occupying each of the temples, restoring them to their former glory as they learned about the nearly forgotten Air Nomad culture.

Katara could see Aang’s beaming smile in her mind and wished she could go back to that moment, just to see his face again. She absentmindedly placed a hand over her lower abdomen, still staring into the sky.

Aang didn’t know- he couldn’t have known. She had only learned of the baby a month ago, and chose to leave the news out of the returning letter to her husband. They had spoken about children many times throughout their relationship, even before the wedding. Katara knew, as well as Aang, his duty to the world regarding the Air Nation. Being the last airbender, he was responsible for restoring the lost civilization. This task had been looming over his head like a dark cloud since the end of the 100-year war, despite his young age at the time.

The world leaders, including his best friend, Zuko, had been on his case about the subject for years. They had even gone as far as to suggest having multiple surrogates carry his children, in hope of enhancing the chance of producing an airbending child. Aang had shot down that idea immediately, not wanting the idea even on the table. He had chosen Katara and was not going to have children with anyone else, nor was he going to have children solely for the restoration of the Air Nation.

Katara knew what was expected of Aang, but it didn’t turn her away. She loved him and was willing to do whatever it took to help him fulfill his duty to the world.

After telling him, he had put the idea out of her head as quick as it left her lips.

“I want to have children with you because I love you, not because I have to,” he had told her, making her smile.

She had protested slightly, but after much conversation with Aang, she had eventually given in. After all, she also wanted to have children with him for the same reason.

Katara looked down, eyes on her stomach and smiled tenderly, placing both hands on the barely noticeable bump.

She spoke softly, “you are already loved more than you know, my little one.”

Growing up in the South Pole, she had helped her Gran Gran deliver many children, and being a master healer, she had assisted many women with their pregnancies over the years. But feeling a child within herself was a different sensation altogether, and she relished in every facet of it. She didn’t mind the morning sickness, or the cravings- not even the beginnings of swollen ankles and the forgetfulness that she knew accompanied some pregnancies. She only wished Aang were there to share the moments with.

Katara found herself missing him more than she thought she would, but inevitably blamed it on the hormones accompanying her new pregnancy. She had gone months without him before, but had never felt as alone as she did in this moment.

She would often lay awake at night, turning sideways in their bed, imagining him there, next to her. At one point, she had decided to sleep in a guest room, thinking that maybe a change of scenery would help her fall asleep. Sadly, it was all in vain; each time she would close her eyes, Aang’s smiling face was the only thing she could see.

Tonight, however, Katara had decided to give into the insomnia. She remained by the window, staring into the darkness, imagining Appa flying in the distance. She imagined Aang finally coming home to her after two long months.

The waterbender watched as the few remaining acolytes made their way inside, making Katara wonder whether they missed their teacher as much as she missed her husband.

He had been teaching them Air Nomad customs and ways of life for years now, and was relishing in it. She adored seeing him in his natural habitat, educating others about his people.

Katara smiled sadly as a single tear streamed down her face. The waterbender closed her eyes, hugging herself gently. She silently prayed to the spirits for them to bring Aang home- to bring him back to her.

As if they heard her silent pleas, her airbender walked into the bedroom a moment later, utilizing his light footsteps as not to frighten her. His eyes were soft as he watched her form in the window, her back to him. Aang smiled longingly and walked up to her, stopping a few steps short.

“Katara?” he spoke softly, making her eyes open slowly.

She turned around hesitantly, hopeful that it wasn’t an imagination. As her eyes fell on him, she placed a hand over her mouth, tears beginning to cascade down her face. Katara lunged at him, throwing him off balance for a split second until he stood firm, wrapping his arms tightly around her waist.

The waterbender clung to him, digging her face into Aang’s chest, holding on for dear life, as her tears flowed. His own tears began to fall as he hugged her tighter, not wanting to ever let go.

They didn’t speak- they didn’t need to. The two benders clung to each other, eventually sinking to the floor, never letting go.

After what seemed like an eternity, the sobs calmed to slight whimpers between the two, and she kissed him. He returned her kiss with much fervor, holding her face in his hands while she gripped his robes and pulled him closer. After a few moments they reluctantly pulled away, resting their foreheads together. Katara was catching her breath, smiling uncontrollably as Aang did the same. He looked into her blue eyes with his grey ones, tears still slowly falling.

Katara kissed him again, this time short and sweet. He pulled his face from hers and rubbed his thumbs across her cheeks, love emanating from his eyes into hers.

“Aang…” she started, placing her forehead against his once more. “You’re back.”

He smiled, “I am.”

“I missed you,” she pecked his lips. “So much.”

“I missed you too.”

They remained on the stone floor, locked in each other’s embrace for what felt like hours, before finally moving to the bed.

Aang sat in the middle of the bed, leaning against the wall, arms wrapped around Katara as she sat between his legs, her back against his chest. Their cheeks were stained with tears, but still they wore smiles. The waterbender softly traced the arrow on Aang’s hand as he kissed the top of her head lovingly.

“Katara,” he started, quietly. “I’m sorry I was gone for so long; Zuko- “

“No,” she cut him off. “I don’t want to know.”

He started to speak again, to explain the reasoning behind his long absence, but she sat up and turned around in his arms, now facing him.

She caught his lips with hers, one hand cupping his cheek. She pulled away delicately and smiled.

“All that matters is that you’re here now.”

He smiled and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. They stayed that way for a few moments before she pulled away, ready to tell him the news.

“Aang,” she said, sitting in front of him, looking down slightly. “I have... news.”

He became slightly worried, waiting patiently for her to explain further.

She moved a hand to her lower abdomen and looked at him, love apparent in her eyes. His eyebrows raised slightly, mind wandering.

“I’m having a baby… you’re going to be a father.”

Aang eyes filled with tears and he gave her a lopsided grin, making her giggle softly as her eyes became glossy.

“You’re pregnant?”

Katara nodded and he pulled her into an embrace, holding her snug against him. Aang didn’t speak for a few minutes- he just held her close, tears streaming down his face once more as he smiled into her hair.

“I found out shortly after you left and wanted to wait until you got back to tell you.”

She pulled away and he held her face in his hands before pulling her into a passionate kiss, to which she responded with much intensity. They each smiled into the kiss as tears of joy ran down their faces.

He pulled away and rested his forehead against hers, eyes closed, still holding onto her face softly.

“I love you,” he breathed.

She smiled and pecked his nose tenderly.

“I love you too.”

------------------------------------

Next will be ‘Home.’

Thank you for reading, and I hope you enjoyed my submission for day 1 of Kataang Week 2021.

[khunfounded]

Got Me In Check

[This was done for the wonderful @tower-of-chess collab!]

It was the late afternoon, sunshine pouring in through the dorm’s cloudy windows, and Khun was pretending to pay attention to his online probabilistic graphic models lecture while actually watching BEST 2 HOUR LONG FUNNY CAT COMPILATION  in another browser. It didn’t matter anyways, he was already ahead in all of his work, and he could answer the professor’s questions without even paying attention.

Cats were a much more important endeavor anyways.

Suddenly, the door slammed open, and his roommate, Bam, came racing towards him. His golden eyes were filled with desperation, and he was panting as if he had just run a marathon. It was unfair how Bam could pull off the hot and sweaty look (with emphasis on the hot) whilst Khun was stuck with frizzy hair and blotchy cheeks anytime he went sprinting across campus.

“Khun, I’m in trouble!” Bam wailed, hands gripping the armrests of his roommate’s chair, “I need your help”.

Khun’s eyes widened with concern, “Are you okay? What’s wrong? What can I do?”

If this was another Rachel problem, Khun swore to god he was actually going to stab her this time. He couldn’t put up with how easily she manipulated his friend, leading him around by the ear. Bam insisted that she was a good person, but her actions showed the exact opposite. What kind of person constantly gaslit and negged their friends? Khun knew the answer. An absolute asshole, that’s who.

But instead of what he expected, what came out of his friend’s mouth was, “I need you to teach me how to play chess!”

What.

“What?” Khun asked incredulously. 

Bam must have realized how he sounded, because he pulled away and tilted his head down to hide a prominent blush. He bit his lip and mumbled something incoherent.

As adorable as that was, it really wasn’t helping Khun’s confusion, “I didn’t quite catch that”.

Bam looked back up and his face got even more red, the blush spreading to the tips of his ears. He fidgeted with the loose strand of his t-shirt and cleared his throat.

“You know how I’ve been wanting to make more friends?” Bam hedged.

Khun did. Bam was a social butterfly, he needed friends to thrive, but ever since they moved away for college, he had been having trouble making them. Khun’s heart ached whenever he saw Bam looking longingly at groups of people messing around and laughing on the campus green. He and Bam were best friends, and they spent almost all of their free time together, but Khun knew that that wasn’t enough. He had no idea why Bam wasn’t surrounded by people at all times, honestly. His natural charisma could fell even the most stoic man. Though maybe he was a little biased.

“Yeah?” He asked.

“And you know how you suggested that I join some clubs to meet people?” Bam didn’t stop to let him answer, voice going a mile a minute like it did whenever he was emotional, “Well I met a really cool group of people, and their club president invited me to join and I said yes”.

Khun could guess where this was going.

“But?”

Bam covered his face with his hands and groaned before answering, “I said yes without realizing that it was the chess club. I don’t know how to play chess! But I already agreed and I don’t wanna flake out and I really, really want to be friends with them”.

Bam lifted up his head and grabbed Khun’s hands, pulling them to his chest. Khun’s heart rate tripled. That probably wasn’t good. But, hey, he wasn’t a physio major, what would he know?

“I had no idea what to do but then I remembered that I know the smartest person ever, and if anyone would be able to help me it would be him”.

“You’re just saying that to butter me up,” Khun chuckled.

“Please?” Bam pouted, “For me?”

Oh god, how could he say no to that? Curse Bam for knowing that he was Khun’s ultimate weakness. He sighed.

“You’re lucky that I used to play chess with Ran, otherwise you’d be screwed”.

Bam let go of his hands, doing a fist pump in excitement, “Yes! Thank you so much!”

“But next time we go get pho, you’re footing the bill”.

They decided to get started later that evening, borrowing a chess board from the desk assistant and bringing it to their floor’s rec room. Luckily, the only other people there were Wangnan and Quaetro, who were busy trying to murder each other in Mario Kart, and Hwaryun, who was working on her laptop. Khun assumed that she was editing a video for her terrifyingly popular conspiracy theory youtube channel. He and Bam sat on the floor in the corner of the room, far enough away that Quaetro’s evil laughter was a bearable volume.

Khun took out the pieces and placed them on the chess board, explaining each of them as he went. Bam was looking at him intently, eyes full of interest. Khun had to avert his gaze just so he could be able to focus and not turn into an incoherent mess. He fondly reminisced about the days long past when he was able to pull off being aloof and cool. Bam had left his reputation in ruins.

When he got to the Queen, he said, “She can move in any straight direction as far as possible as long as she does not move through any of her own pieces. She is the most powerful piece of the game, so use her wisely”.

“So she’s like Khun!” Bam grinned brightly.

“What do you mean?” Khun asked, rubbing his thumb against the edge of the Black Queen.

Bam reached out and took the White Queen, cradling it in his palm and smiling softly, “You’re the most important, too”.

Khun felt his cheeks heat up. Was this flirting? Was Bam flirting with him? No, of course not, that wouldn’t make any sense. There was no way it could be possible, but how the hell else could he interpret that?

Khun had long accepted the fact that his crush on his best friend was hopeless and would never be reciprocated, but lately things kept happening that made it impossible for him to not get his hopes up. Bam had always been affectionate, but it had increased ten fold in the last few months. When they sat on Khun’s bed (which Bam always claimed was far superior to his own) and binged youtube videos together, Bam would cuddle right up against him like a content cat.

Once, when Bam had had a particularly long day at work, he had walked straight into Khun’s arms and just held him for several minutes, tears of exhaustion seeping into Khun’s shirt. Afterwards, they had sat close together on the dorm room floor and Bam spilled out all his frustration and anxiety, fidgeting with Khun’s hand the whole time.

Sometimes, when they were walking downtown together, Bam would just take Khun’s hand and intertwine their fingers, as if it was the most natural thing in the world. He wouldn’t even stop his excited rambling, just continuing on as if nothing had happened.

But something had happened between them, and Khun needed to find out what or he was going to go insane.

And in this moment, he decided that, fuck it, two could play at that game.

“So does that mean you’re my King?” He asked, smiling when Bam’s eyes widened and he ducked his head.

“If you’ll have me,” Bam murmured, biting his lip.

Were they still talking about chess? Khun wasn’t sure.

“How could I say no to that?” He said just as softly, before clearing his throat and picking up the White King, “Anyways, the King can only move one square in any direction, and he can never move himself into check”.

The moment was successfully derailed, but the electric charge of something was still in the air, even as Khun led Bam through some easy strategies.

“Now, you should make sure that you focus on the center four squares of the board,” he guided Bam, “Whoever dominates those dominates the game”.

Bam’s eyebrows scrunched up, and Jesus, why was he so cute? It should be illegal. Put him away for life.

“Okay,” he told Bam, “When you can get into a draw with me, that’s when you’re ready”.

And so began Bam’s week-long training, which he said was more intense than anything he’d ever done at Jinsung’s dojo. It was also much harder on Khun’s side, to hold himself back from absolutely decimating his friend in three moves, which Bam made sure to make fun of him for.

“I think it’s cute!” he said, “You’re trying so hard just to help me”.

“I’m not cute,” he grumbled as he took Bam’s Rook out of spite.

The entire thing was a learning experience for both of them. Bam was learning how to play chess, and Khun was learning that Bam had absolutely terrifying game rage. His eyes practically crackled with electricity and Khun heard him cuss more times in those few days than he had in his entire time of knowing him. Baby Khun would be distraught, but Adult Khun was kind of into it.

“Fuck!” Bam cursed when Khun got him in check, startling the sleeping burrito Laure, and making Khun burst out laughing. Bam stuck his tongue out and flicked Khun’s Queen, toppling her over. 

Khun moved the chess pieces back a few moves, and guided Bam’s hand to moving the Knight in a way that would have trapped him.

“This is where you went wrong,” he said, “Your instinct is good for your dancing, but you need to plan ahead with chess”.

But Bam didn’t seem to be paying attention. In fact, his eyes were glued to where their hands were touching. Khun jolted back when he realized what he had done, but Bam took his hand before he could move away, shifting so he was holding it. Khun died a little, but he was pretty sure he didn’t let it show. Relatively sure. Kind of.

They managed to play with their hands together, but Khun’s brain was mush. That was when Bam finally got a draw. Khun would have protested, but that would mean admitting why he was distracted.

As Bam was cheering and texting Isu that he was coming to the next meeting, Khun put away their pieces, trying not to feel loss. Bam didn’t need him anymore, at least not for this. He had always known it wasn’t permanent, but a part of him had hoped it would last a little longer. Khun bit his lip.

“Hey, Khun?” Bam said, voice still brimming with excitement.

“Yeah?” his voice sounded hollow. Damnit.

“I was wondering if you wanted to come, too? I just thought, you’re really good at it, and I think you’d like everyone there, and I want you to be friends with my friends”.

Khun blinked. He blurted out his answer before he could even think.

“Yeah. Yes, I would love that”.

Bam grinned, face lit up like the sun.

He reached over, hands gently cupping Khun’s face, and brought him in close. So close they were breathing the same air. Bam’s smile turned soft and he nuzzled their noses together before his sunshine eyes flickered down to Khun’s lips.

Oh god, was this happening? It was happening. Oh god. Khun’s brain stuttered and broke down. There was never a time in his short, short life where he thought that this would ever be possible, that Bam would ever think of him in this way. But Khun had always been a selfish person, he wasn’t going to take this gift for granted.

He leaned in, bridging the gap, and then they were kissing over the chess board and it was everything. Bam hummed into it, pecking Khun’s lips once, twice, three times. Khun tugged him in and kissed him for all he was worth, knocking the chess pieces over in the process. After one last kiss, Bam pulled away, giggling.

“You’re the best boyfriend ever, Khun!”

[fleetingpieces]

Everything we were CH 3

@hereforwolfstarr and @heyitssmiller thank you so much for reaching out when I wasn’t feeling too great about my writing, you’re both wonderful <3  I know this might not be what you expected but I wanted to gift something to both of you, and since I haven’t finished chapter 5 of One in a Million, I hope this one is ok <3

Love youu

Everything we were Masterlist

Chapter 3

The view of the castle from the middle of the lake took Remus’ breath away. Hogwarts was set on top of a cliff, its many towers pointing at the moon like spears, the numerous windows illuminated from the inside contrasting majestically against the night sky. Remus could almost feel the magic pulsating from it. 

The dark rippling waves reflected the golden light, gasps of admiration coming from all the boats around him. The massive game keeper, who had introduced himself as Hagrid, was a heavy weight at his back. Remus had chosen to sit with him so he could keep to himself and avoid other students, just like he had done on the train ride.

Saying goodbye to his parents had been harder than he cared to admit. Especially his Mum. Who would he talk to if not Hope? Through his lonely years of secrecy, his mother had been the one constant in his life, the rock that kept him grounded. He confided in her, and felt comfortable in her presence.

As the train had left the station that morning, he’d felt an undeniable sense of dread. He would be alone now. Utterly alone. He hadn’t met that many people before, but at least his parents had been there for him. Now he wouldn’t even have that, and instead he found himself in a train full of students whom he couldn’t trust and that would turn him away in an instant if they found out about what he was. When was the last time he had even been around any kids his age? Two years at least, and even longer before that.

But, as the city landscape had given way to green rolling hills, he also felt…excited. Like some light had been ignited inside of him, and it couldn’t be put out. He was going to learn magic. With his own wand, not just reading the books his dad brought for him. He could put up with being alone in exchange for some minimal sense of normalcy, even if he couldn't have it all. He had been so sure that he would never be able to go to school, that he still couldn’t quite believe he had been given a chance. And he was not going to let that go to waste.

So he had sat on a corner, looking through the window, avoiding the small talk the three second year hufflepuffs had tried to strike with him in the compartment.

The boat shook a bit under the mass of Hagrid, bringing Remus back to the present, and he gripped the wooden edge, scared that they would sink.

“Don’ yeh worry, this ruddy thing‘s made ter support me,” said Hagrid. “Yer Remus Lupin, ain’t ya?”

Remus jumped. “Um. Yeah. How did you know?”

“Ha! Yeh look exactly like yer dad! Great lad, that Lyall.”

“You know my dad?”

“’Course I do! Bloody interest in the Forbidden Forest, he had. Always wantin’ ter see the creatures in there, could hardly keep him out,” he huffed a laugh.

Remus had no idea what the Forbidden Forest was or what sort of creatures his dad could have been so interested in, but he didn’t want to show how little he knew about Hogwarts by asking. He thought maybe he could ask more about his father’s time at school, but then his attention was brought to the dark tunnel they had just gone in at the side of the cliff, leading to an underground harbour.

A tall, dark haired witch in emerald-green robes was waiting for them, and soon they were being led to the Entrance Hall. The stone walls were lined with flaming torches, the ceilings were incredibly high, and in front of them was a huge marble staircase that led to the top floors.

The witch guided the first years through a small chamber, facing them once they were all inside.

“Welcome. I am Professor McGonagall, deputy Headmistress and Head of Gryffindor House. We’ll be going into the Great Hall soon to start the Sorting Ceremony, to determine which house you will be in through your time at Hogwarts.” Remus knew this much, his dad would occasionally mention Gryffindor Tower and his common room, but he didn’t know what the ceremony was about. Most of the students around him were whispering excitedly and he had to look down to hide the flush that was creeping onto his face. He decided right then he would try to learn as much as possible, as soon as he was able to. The tall witch opened the door, motioning to them. “Form a line and follow me.”

While organizing themselves, a kid behind Remus asked, “What do you think the ceremony is about?”

Remus looked back to a slightly plump, blond boy. He was about as short as Remus himself, and he felt kind of relieved to know that he wasn’t the only one lost there. He shrugged helplessly, turning around to focus on what was in front of him.

Going through the door, Remus tried not to gawk, but a gasp escaped his lips nonetheless. He was pleased when he realized he wasn’t the only one. The Great Hall was enormous, stone walls lined with high windows reaching up to the ceiling. Or lack of ceiling. Remus wasn’t sure, ‘cause all he could see was the cloudy night sky above him. Must be bewitched, he decided. Thousands of floating candles lighted up the faces of the students sitting on four long tables, placed in front of the smaller staff table at the top of the hall.

Professor McGonagall led them up there so they were facing the hundreds of students, making Remus shift uncomfortably. He had never seen so many people before, let alone all of them together in one room. It felt like they were all staring at him.

No one can know.

He had to remind himself a few times that they wouldn’t be able to tell what he was just by looking at him. Still, he tugged down on his sleeves, making sure his arms were fully covered.

Remus looked down again to avoid the gazes and noticed there was a four-legged stool in front of them. On top of the stool, McGonagall placed an old wizard’s hat. Everyone’s attention shifted to it when a rip near the brim of the hat opened and it started singing. It was an eerie, dazing sound that lasted for a few minutes, and as soon as it was over the Hall erupted in applause.

McGonagall stepped forward with a roll of parchment then. “When I call your name, sit on the stool and try on the Hat,” she said, and without further ado started reading out loud.

“Avery, Enos!”

A bulky looking boy with short brown hair walked to the front. He put on the Hat, sitting on the stool, and almost instantly the Hat shouted “SLYTHERIN!”

There was a round of applause from the table on the far right as Avery went to sit with the rest of the slytherins. A couple more kids were called forward, both of whom stumbled to the front before being sorted and sitting on their respective house tables. Then McGonagall called the next student.

“Black, Sirius!”

A hushed murmur came from the Slytherin table, as a student with wavy black hair and clear eyes walked to the front with lazy elegance. Remus recognized him as the boy that had been staring at him and his mother at Platform 9 ¾. He had looked at them so longingly it had made Remus feel uncomfortable in his mother’s arms, and Remus had made a point to avoid the boy’s compartment when he’d gotten on the train.

Despite the confidence with which the dark-haired boy walked, he looked nervous as he shoved the Hat onto his head. He sat perfectly still as the seconds dragged by. The Hat was taking longer with him than it had done with the other students, and some tension was rising in the air, although Remus couldn’t tell if it was from the boy or exactly where it was coming from. Everyone seemed to be sitting still, waiting, until –

“GRYFFINDOR!”

Black stayed there as if paralyzed. After a few seconds, he took the Hat off slowly and glanced with wide eyes to the Slytherin table, but then looked away quickly. There was a moment of shocked silence before the table on the far left broke into tumultuous cheer, and Black walked to the other gryffindors as if in a daze.

The list kept going, “Derwent, Adrian!” went into Ravenclaw, and a red haired girl by the name of “Evans, Lily!” was sorted into Gryffindor as well. Remus heard someone close to him cursing: a boy with a hooked nose was looking sourly at the girl as she sent him a sad little smile. Remus saw Black move up the bench to make room for her, but Evans took one look at him, made a disgusted face, and folding her arms firmly she turned her back on him. Remus wondered if he had been staring intently at her too when she was at the station.

The roll call continued, and maybe too soon there was a shout for “Lupin, Remus!”.

A sudden fear seized his body. Remus walked to the front feeling incredibly nervous. He tugged at his sleeves again, being very careful as he put the Hat on his head and sat on the stool. He stared at the black inside of the Hat as it fell over his eyes and waited, trying very hard not to squirm on the seat, but he ended up bouncing his leg anyway.

“Well, well, isn’t this interesting? I haven’t had a werewolf in over 300 years,” a voice whispered in his ear.

Remus’ thoughts turned cold, panicked. His secret was out so quickly he didn’t even last a freaking meal. But then he remembered that the Hat hadn’t said anything out loud about the rest of the students other than their houses.

“Yes, exactly,” the Hat continued. “You have a good brain, maybe Ravenclaw would be a good fit.”

Remus clasped his hands tightly on his lap, thinking furiously, “Please don’t tell anyone.”

“Oh no, I am only here for the Sorting. It’s all here in your head, you see. I can see you’ve had to face hardships a lot of people wouldn’t even survive, but still you remain kind. Very mature for your age. Very interesting, indeed. It takes plenty of courage to be here despite your many fears, with an attitude like that you better be GRYFFINDOR!”

As the last word was shouted to the school, the Gryffindor table gave a loud cheer, and Remus headed over there feeling a bit queasy at the thought that a mere hat had been able to tell his secret in just a few seconds. Fair enough, it clearly wasn’t just any normal hat, but he still felt so shaken that he didn’t even notice the pats on his back or Sirius Black making space for him as Remus sat next to the boy on the bench. He looked down at his lap, frowning. He was gonna have to be extra careful if he wanted to finish his school career without being chased by a mob.

“Hello,” a tentative voice came from beside him. Remus looked up to silver eyes and a hesitant smile. Up close, he noticed how expensive Black’s clothes looked, how he held himself like he was better than the rest of them. Remus was relieved right then that he had taken the time to fix the tiny hole on his sleeves before getting on the train. Sewing was a tedious task, one he couldn’t wait to be able to do magically, but he had learnt to do it early on so he could mend his clothes, and avoid making his parents spend extra money on him. He was painfully aware that taking care of him was expensive sometimes, particularly with the few times they had had to move from town to town.

Black was looking at him funny and Remus realized he had been staring for a while without saying anything. “Um, hi.” He flushed, cursing himself. Why would this fancy boy want to talk to him? Black’s smile turned soft, but then a cheer erupted around them as a boy called Peter Pettigrew got sorted into Gryffindor as well. Remus looked up to see the blond boy from before.

Pettigrew came to sit in front of them, looking very pleased with himself.

“Can’t believe I got into Gryffindor!” he gushed to Remus, who tried to give him a small smile. Pettigrew’s eyes got wider as he contemplated Black, but the raven-haired boy had his eyes on the front as McGonagall called the next name on the roll.

“Potter, James!”

A boy with a mop of wild black hair and a huge smile walked to the stool, moving like he owned the place. Remus envied that kind of confidence, and tried to straighten his back slightly as opposed to his usual hunched posture. As the Potter lad put on the Hat and sat down, he felt Black beside him tense up, but the Sorting Hat had barely touched the boy’s head when it screamed “GRYFFINDOR!”.

Potter flashed his teeth in a dazzling smile, walking with even more confidence to sit next to Pettigrew. His smile only grew when he looked at Black.

“How great is this? Can’t believe you actually broke the tradition, mate! That’s brilliant!”

Remus was almost sure Black's cheeks had gone slightly pink, but the boy still managed to give a lazy smile. “Yeah, I was a bit surprised myself.” Then he frowned, glancing unconsciously to the table on the opposite side, “I hope it’s ok.”

“Of course it is! This is the best house to be in! And we are together!” said Potter, practically bouncing on his seat. Black smirked at that.

“Yeah, I bet you would cry if you didn’t get to share a dorm with my magnificent self.”

“Shut up.” Potter laughed. “But yeah, it would have been a bugger to get my first friend sorted into Slytherin.” He smirked back, and Black’s eyes seemed to brighten, while Remus sunk on his seat.

It’s ok, he repeated to himself, I don’t need that, it’s ok.

Every student looked up when McGonagall took the Hat away and an old wizard in royal blue robes stood at the staff table with open arms. Remus almost sprang up when he realized it was Dumbledore. He’d been so nervous about the whole ceremony, he hadn’t even noticed the Headmaster was there. Now that he thought about it, it would have been weird if he wasn’t.

Dumbledore gave a short welcome speech with an easy smile on his face, and Remus found himself smiling a real smile for the first time since he had left King’s Cross station. That is, until the Headmaster went on to the last bit of his speech.

“Lastly,” he said, “before we fill ourselves with warm food and I lose your attention completely, there’s an important announcement to make. I would like to remind you all that the Forbidden Forest is out of bounds to any student that doesn’t want to find themselves in deep trouble. And also,” he looked at Remus for just a fraction of a second, making Remus’ heart skip a beat. But then it was gone and Dumbledore was looking sternly at the students, “this year we have an addition to our school grounds. The Whomping Willow is a rare and valuable specimen that we’ve had the pleasure to receive as a donation. But I must warn you, it can be very violent, so all students are to keep away from it.”

There was a deafening silence as the words sank in, some students even gulped. Then Dumbledore smiled affably again and clapped his hands once. “Now let the feast begin!”

The dishes were suddenly piled with a wide range of delicious looking food. Everyone tucked in happily, as if they hadn’t just been given a warning about a very violent freaking tree that was on school grounds.

“But the Forbidden Forest…” Remus heard someone saying and he looked up.

Black and Potter were talking about the numerous, dangerous beasts that were rumoured to dwell in the dark Forest. Remus didn’t like the excited way their eyes were shining.

He should definitely keep away from those two.

[favefandomimagines]

Wrong Direction (p.p.)

Summary: Peter breaks up with your before your Europe trip and starts dating MJ. He realizes he made a mistake when he sees you and your little sister.

AN: i’ve noticed that almost all of my peter parker imagines are always stark!reader lol probably because rdj is my dad

Peter knew he couldn’t keep holding on to you when he lost feelings. It wasn’t fair to you after everything you’ve been through. You had just lost Natasha and your dad and were stuck taking over Stark Industries. He had unexpectedly fallen for MJ during the time you were preoccupied. And it wasn’t right to stay in a loveless relationship.

“Why?” You asked, as you avoided Peter’s gaze. “I-I like someone else.” He stammered. You scoffed as you wiped the tears off your face. “It’s MJ isn’t it?” You questioned.

Peter remained silent and that was all the confirmation you needed. “I should’ve known. The girl you told me not to worry about.” You said. You began to walk away from him when he called out for you.

“Y/N,” He started. “No, Peter.” You paused. “He’d be so disappointed in you. Not because you broke up with me but because you didn’t have the courage to do it before it got worse. So just, stay the hell away from me.” You snapped.

You knew it was a low blow. Bringing up how your father would have reacted to the news of your breakup. But you were hurt and you felt betrayed. Your boyfriend and former best friend didn’t have the courage to tell you about their alleged affair. 

The days before the trip to Europe, every encounter Peter had with Happy wasn’t a pleasant one. It was full of mean looks and not a single word was spoken between the two of them. Until the night of Aunt May’s charity event, Happy delivered the donation.

Happy went back to present the check from Stark Industries, that adorned your signature, when he knew he had to say something to your ex-boyfriend.

Peter was staring at your name on the large piece of paper and a guilty expression washed over his face. One that didn’t go unnoticed by Happy.

“I’m supposed to look out for those girls, Parker. Make sure nothing bad happens to them because they deserve nothing but happiness. And yet, Pepper and I have had to deal with Y/N sobbing in her room every night. Wondering why she wasn’t enough for you.” Happy snapped.

Peter swallowed the lump in his throat, looking at his feet. You hadn’t said a word to him or MJ since that night, rightfully so, and had gone as far as getting business release from school. Meaning, you left after second period everyday to help run Stark Industries. How could Midtown High say no to a member of the team that saved the world?

“She deserved better. You should know that better than anyone.” He added. “I didn’t know what to do, Happy, okay? I care about Y/N, I always will but it wasn’t fair to stay in a relationship that I wasn’t 100% invested in.” Peter replied. “Of course it wasn’t fair to her! That girl has been through hell and back and yet you drag her through the coals. You owe her one hell of an apology.” Happy yelled.

The room fell silent as Aunt May walked in. “Did I interrupt something?” She asked. “No. I was just leaving. I have to go tend to a broken hearted teenager.” Happy replied, sending another dig towards Peter.

May looked at her nephew and sighed. “You had to have seen this coming, Peter. The people closest to her aren’t going to like seeing her hurting. Especially with how much she cared about you.” She said. “I know, May.” Peter muttered.

He shook his head before he himself left the room.

—

Everyone had just gotten off the plane from London, after the long and grueling fight with Mysterio.

You had adorned a couple of minor bruises but you were doing just fine. Physically. Emotionally, you were crippled. Seeing Peter and MJ holding hands and being a couple right in front of you.

Not even giving your feelings a second thought. You walked behind them as you exited the airport and heard Morgan’s voice yell your name.

You were so overcome with happiness to see your little sister, you jogged right in between Peter and MJ, not caring that you bumped into them both and scooped the young girl up into a tight hug.

“Morgan, I missed you.” You said, a large smile covering your face. You set her back down after a couple of seconds and began talking to Pepper. “How are you doing?” She asked. “Oh I’m fine. The suit is a little scratched up but nothing a little TLC can’t fix.” You replied.

“Y/N, that’s not what I meant.” She said. Your smile fell, knowing well what Pepper meant. “I feel terrible. Like, I’m nothing to him now. He could care less about me.” You spoke.

Before Pepper could respond, Morgan’s voice alerted you. “Peter!” She yelled, running to your ex boyfriend. “Morgan!” Pepper called to her youngest. “I’ll go get her.” You told her reluctantly.

You went after Pepper and saw Peter kneel down in front of the girl before standing up to face you.

“H-Hey, Y/N. How are you feeling?” He asked. “Fine.” You answered shortly before lowering yourself down to Morgan’s level. “Come on, kiddo. We have a lot of Disney movies to catch up on” You smiled at her.

“And cheeseburgers?” She asked, excitedly. You laughed lightly as you nodded your head. “And tons of cheeseburgers.” You answered.

You picked her up and turned to Peter and MJ. “I’ll see you guys around.” You said in a monotone fashion, not a single trace of a smile.

Peter watched you walk away from him and everything in his body was telling him to run after you. To wrap you in his arms and kiss you and tell you he takes it all back and that he loves you.

MJ saw the way Peter was looking at you longingly. The way his face lit up watching you with Morgan. Or whenever anyone mentioned you, his whole demeanor changed.

Peter watched you get into the car with Pepper and Morgan, a large smile on your face and laughing at something Morgan had said.

He shook the feelings off before putting his attention back on MJ.

—

It had been a matter of weeks and Peter’s revelation just became stronger and clearer. He was stupid to think that there was anyone he could love more than you.

Whenever he and MJ went to a place the two of you used to go, he just thought of the dates with you. Or whenever they’d be watching the original Star Wars trilogy, he’d think of your rants about Luke and Leia. Everything reminded him of you. 

So when he had to break up with MJ, it was like a repeat of how the break up between you and him went. Except she understood.

MJ always knew that Peter was in love with you, even when she didn’t want to believe it. It was obvious that his feelings for her were just temporary and misguided. Of course she understood, but that didn’t make it hurt any less. 

“Go find her, Parker. I think she needs you.” MJ told him that night.

Peter smiled gratefully before putting his mask back on and leaving her apartment. Peter had enough adrenaline that he made it all the way to the Avengers facility.

He could see your bedroom light on from the grounds of the building and made his way up your balcony. He didn’t know whether or not he still had security clearance to get past the cameras and the alarm system but clearly he did. Considering he made it all the way to your window without FRIDAY alerting you.

Peter hesitated for a moment before he tapped on your window.

Inside, your head perked up at the sound of someone tapping at your window. Peter used to do that when you still lived at the tower but never at the facility after your relocation.

You slowly got out of bed and walked towards the double doors. Moving the curtains aside, you saw Peter, dressed in his Spider-Man suit, minus the mask.

“How did you get up here?” You asked. “I still have security clearance.” He answered. “I told Pepper to change that.” You muttered. “Y/N, I really need to talk to you.” Peter said.

You looked at him for a moment before you sighed and opened the door for him. He looked at you hopefully and walked inside.

“What do you want?” You questioned. “I’m sorry. I-I messed up. I thought I liked MJ as more than a friend but then when I saw you in London helping me after what I did and then I saw you with Morgan at the airport, you smiled and you pulled me right back in again. I love you, Y/N Stark. I always have and I’m pretty sure I always will.” Peter explained.

You stood there completely dumbfounded after you heard Peter’s confession. 

“What about MJ?” You asked. “I broke up with her. Well, more like she knew I was fooling myself by thinking I was over you. She called me out on it and told me to come find you.” He answered. “How do I know you won’t just change your mind again?” You questioned. 

You that that if he could do it once, he could do it again. And you couldn’t go through that pain again. 

“I will never make that stupid mistake again. I promise.” Peter said. You looked at him for a moment before letting out a sigh. “I’ve lost too many people, Parker. I thought I could never lose you but we saw how well that worked out,” You started. “I can’t lose you again, Peter.” You finished.

Peter took a step towards you held your hands in his. “I’m never letting you go again.” He said.

“And I’m sorry, too. For the things I said to you that night. My dad wouldn’t be disappointed in you. It’s the complete opposite probably, he’d be proud of you.” You said. “You have nothing to be sorry for, Y/N, you were hurting and you had every right to say those things.” Peter said. “And I, uh, I love you too. I guess I never stopped. That’s why it hurt so much.” You added. 

Peter’s frown turned into a goofy smile as he heard those words leave your mouth. 

“Really?” He questioned. “Yes, really.” You said with a small laugh. “Would I have let you in my room if I didn’t mean it?” You added. “No, probably not. You probably would have kicked my ass.” Peter said. 

“Most likely.” You joked. “I missed you.” He said. “I missed you too. It’s been weird without you.” You replied. “May has been asking about you. Asking how you’re doing after everything.” Peter said. 

You were silent for a moment as you looked down at your feet. “How have you been doing? I know I haven’t asked that.” He added. You and Peter sat down on the edge of your bed, your hand still in his. 

“Some days have been harder than others. Like yesterday, I was sitting in the office, trying to help Pepper with some business stuff. And, uh, I looked on the desk and saw blueprints for Steve’s new shield and a brand new Iron Man suit. It got me thinking that, he’s not going to be able to finish those things. He’s not going to be there to see me go to college, walk me down the aisle or be there when I have my first child. All of these amazing things are going to happen to me and there’s always going to be that missing piece.” You answered. 

“He’s going to be there. Maybe not physically but he’s always going to be with you. With all of us.” Peter said, using his thumb to wipe the tears off your cheek. “I just, I don’t know how people can do it. How they can go through losing a parent and be okay. I mean, look at you. You lost both of your parents and Uncle Ben and you’re the best person I know.” You said. 

“What did he tell you in that last message?” Peter asked. “That I am meant for amazing and great things. That I am going to do more than he ever could and that he’s proud of me.” You answered, choking back a sob. “Then that’s what you’re going to do. You are going to continue to make him proud.” Peter said. 

You took a deep breath and wiped the tears off your face and shook of the sadness. “Let’s just go back to being happy. We’re back together, everything’s okay and I just want lay with you right now.” You said. 

“How about we watch The Empire Strikes Back?” He suggested. You smiled widely before nodding your head. “Yes please.” You answered. 

Peter stood up and took off the suit before climbing into bed with you. “I still don’t get how they just swept the weird sexual tension between Luke and Leia under the rug. Like they’re siblings.” You added, receiving a laugh from Peter before kissing you on the head. 

“I love you.” He said. “I love you too.” You replied, as the opening of the movie started. 

[lunagojo]

The Eternal One -- Chapter One

TRIGGER WARNING: physical, emotional, verbal abuse

I'm on a roll with this, it's been so long since I've written anything substantial and it feels really good to be doing it again. Hope you all enjoy!

Chapter One

"Lunaaria!"

A sharp voice called from the floor below, causing the young girl in bed to wake with a start. She had long been used to her mother's carping, but it still didn't lessen her fear of her. Everything she did, no matter how miniscule, was criticized.

The young elf yawned widely, stretching. She swung her legs out of bed and got up, going to the window, and looking outside.

She loved where she lived, despite her situation. Quel'thalas was called the land of the eternal summer, and as such, rain was scarce, and the temperature was always warm and comfortable. In the distance she saw Silvermoon City, where a good population of the high elves lived. Lunaaria had never been within the walls of the city, and always dreamed of seeing it. She always saw the royal guards and rangers out on patrol and yearned for the freedom that they had.

Ruza'thel never allowed her out of the tower they called home.

Luna longed to feel the warm breeze, to climb the twisted ivory trees and explore the land. But all she could do was just watch longingly.

"Lunaaria, where are you?!" The sharp voice called again, and this time Luna went to her door.

"Up in my room, Mama, where else would I be?" She called back.

Ruza'thel started coming up the stairs. "Don't you be smart with me, young lady!" When she reached the top of the stairs, she gave Luna a rough shove. "That damned feline of yours ate my flowers in the garden!"

Luna looked up at the harsh face of her mother. Perhaps in another lifetime she had been quite beautiful, but the years had been cruel to her. Her thin lips were nearly always twisted in a sneer, and her hair, once a lustrous auburn, had turned dull and matted. Luna didn't see much of a resemblance between herself and Ruza'thel, as Luna had golden blonde hair and bright blue eyes, and a speckling of freckles across her nose and cheeks. Once she had mentioned this concern to Ruza'thel and the woman had insisted that Luna had inherited her father's looks.

Lunaaria had never known her father. Ruza'thel told her that he was a Farstrider, one of the rangers who had pledged to protect Quel'thalas with their lives. She told her that one day he left and never returned.

Maybe that's why Ruza'thel had such a hatred for Lunaaria. At least, that's what Luna theorized.

"How are you so sure that Loque ate your flowers? We do live in the woods, there are squirrels and other — " Luna began, but Ruza'thel interrupted her angrily.

"That fleabag does nothing but pester me! I've half a mind to get rid of him!" Ruza'thel snaps. In truth, she had tried to get rid of Loque many, many times, by selling him, chasing him off, attempting to even poison him at one point. But nothing phased the leopard in the slightest, and he always returned, as if nothing had ever happened.

Luna did not know how Loque came to be her best friend. She'd known him as long as she could remember, and whenever she asked Ruza'thel where he'd come from, she evaded the answer or changed the subject entirely. It was puzzling, but Lunaaria didn't exactly care. As long as she had Loque with her, her home life was bearable.

The thing was that Loque was never allowed inside. The only time Luna ever saw him up close was when she either went to bring in the laundry from the outside clothesline or go bathe in the big metal tub on the back end of the tower.

Luna didn't reply and allowed Ruza'thel to go on and on for what seemed like an eternity. Finally, her mother gestured down to the front door. "I woke you because I need to go into the city for a couple of days. Would you like to come with me?"

Lunaaria's eyes brightened, and she smiled eagerly, excited. "Yes! Oh, yes, please!"

"Well, it's such a shame that you can't." Ruza'thel said with a cruel smirk. "Did you really think I would let you out? Foolish girl you are." She shook her head, then pointed around. "I want this place spotless by the time I get back. You hear me?"

The young girl's heart sank when she realized Ruza'thel was playing some sort of twisted joke. She couldn't help the stinging of tears in her eyes as she nodded somberly, knowing what would await her if she didn't do her mother's bidding.

With that, Ruza'thel gathered her cloak, staff, and satchel, before leaving the tower and slamming the door behind her. Lunaaria lingered on the stairs until she heard the sound of her mother locking the door, then she sat down, burying her face in her hands. The only sound in the tower now were the soft sobs coming from her. Why? Why was her mother so intent on hurting her feelings, on beating her whenever she felt bored? She gazed down at the bruises mottling her fair arms. Pain had become such a usual feeling for her that she almost welcomed it like an old friend.

She cried for a while and then stood, wiping her eyes and nose on her sleeves. She started her chores, hoping that doing them would take her mind off of things, even just for a little bit.

Evening fell and so the crickets came out, chirping their usual nighttime tune. Lunaaria sat on her windowsill in her room, gazing out at the night as the warm lights of Silvermoon's buildings began to turn on. She wondered if maybe one day she would get out of this place, and then shook her head. She couldn't leave her mother, could she? After all, what would Ruza'thel do if she found out?

She picked up one of her few belongings nearby, something she had treasured for years. It was a Thalassian arrowhead that she had found near the bathtub outside. It was engraved with golden swirls, and the tip had long since dulled, so it didn't hurt her to handle it. She had always wanted to learn to use a bow. Lunaaria thought they were elegant, but also deadly, and admired the grace of those who could use them.

A soft 'mrowl' came from beside her and she looked outside. Loque was perched in his usual guard spot beneath her window, gnawing on a bird or small animal that he had hunted. Luna was grateful that he could take care of himself. She never had to worry about him starving.

She heard voices suddenly, coming closer. Loque's ears perked and his cyan eyes narrowed in anticipation, ready to pounce on whatever was coming.

Sure enough, two Farstriders were walking through the woods. The tower Luna lived in was way off the path that was usually patrolled, and so it was highly unusual that they would trek this far away from their route.

"No, Halduron, I heard it coming from here," One of the voices said, and after that, a hand emerged from the brush surrounding Luna's home, lifting the branches that shrouded the area. A young elven man stepped through, dressed in Farstrider green, his hair long and pale. He had narrow, handsome features and in his hand was a bow.

Another man followed him, another Farstrider, but this time with blonde hair. "Lor'themar, this is way too far off of our patrol route."

"Since when have you ever cared about the rules?" The first man, Lor'themar, asked. He paused when he saw Loque, who was growling now. The leopard looked about ready to attack when Luna called down to her companion.

"Loque, no!"

Lor'themar and Halduron's eyes went up to the window, and Lunaaria's face went crimson. She quickly ducked behind the wall, not wanting to be seen, but she had already given her position away.

"You ever heard of residents living out here?" Halduron asked, raising an eyebrow.

Lor'themar's brow furrowed, his interest immediately piqued. "No, I haven't. But who knows, there are elves everywhere nowadays." He approached the tower, minding the leopard who was still keeping a watchful eye on him.

"...Miss?" He asked, calling up to the girl hiding in the tower.

Lunaaria lifted her head, peeking out the window.

Lor'themar smiled, "Are you alright?"

She nodded quietly.

The rangers looked around, then back up at Luna.

"Do you live out here alone?" Halduron asked of her.

"N—No..." Luna replied shyly, finally standing. "My mother lives here with me."

Lor'themar and Halduron exchanged a look. Lor had noticed the bruises on her arms, and was not about to leave what seemed to be someone in need. "Can you come outside?" He asked.

Lunaaria leaned against the windowsill. "If I could be out, I would." She sighed, her gaze going to the city in the distance.

Lor'themar had a bad feeling in his gut. Nothing about this situation he and Halduron had stumbled upon seemed right. "I'm Lor'themar Theron, and this is Halduron Brightwing. Do you need some help, miss?"

"...N—No... I don't need any help." She seemed a bit hesitant.

Lor'themar frowned a bit. "Miss, you're obviously in some sort of trouble." He commented.

Luna managed a bit of a bittersweet smile. "I'm okay, I promise. I just fell." She lied smoothly, not wanting her mother to get in trouble.

The two rangers looked at each other again, Halduron sighing and relenting as he exited through the brush to go back on patrol. Lor'themar lingered, staring up at the girl's face.

"Lor! Let's go, we're going to be late getting back!" Halduron's voice called for his associate.

Luna watched him from her spot, wondering why he hadn't gone yet. He seemed worried for her, but she was more so worried about Ruza'thel finding out that she had spoken to two Farstriders while she was gone.

"...Be safe, miss," he told her, before finally moving to go back through the brush.

"W—Wait." Luna said suddenly, and he stopped, turning his head to look back at her.

"Lunaaria," she told him, and he raised an eyebrow.

"Beg pardon?"

"My name's Lunaaria." She gave him a tiny smile. "...Will...you come back soon?"

Lor'themar tilted his head and then grinned a bit back at her. "Yes. Yes, I'll come back." With that, he disappeared back through the brush as well, joining up with Halduron again.

Lunaaria waited until their voices had faded before she went to bed, unable to stop thinking about what had just happened. For some reason the pale haired ranger remained in her head. His concern for her was something she hadn't really experienced before. Ruza'thel couldn't care less about the number of bruises on Luna's skin, but this stranger did.

She wondered if all people were as kind as him, outside the walls of her tower.

"You're not thinking of going back?"

Halduron asked Lor'themar as they returned to Silvermoon. Lor'themar looked sidelong at his friend. "Did that look like a normal home life to you, Halduron?"

The other Farstrider exhaled, "I'm just saying. You know they're looking at you for alar'annalas (ranger lord), right? If they find out you've been going off your patrol path for some girl — "

"You're the one reprimanding me about breaking the rules for a girl? You?" Lor'themar gave him an incredulous look.

Halduron rolled his eyes. "I just don't want you to lose a golden opportunity. Who knows, you might become ranger general one day."

Lor'themar scoffed at that. "You know I don't care about promotions, Halduron."

They walked until they reached the Farstrider's Enclave at the far end of the city. Despite it being the middle of the night, the streets were still lively and bustling, as was the norm. Lor'themar went and sat on one of the benches within the barracks, resting his head back. Halduron joined him and they sat in silence for a few moments.

"Something tells me that no matter what I say it won't stop you." Halduron said, leaning his back against the wall.

Lor'themar looked sidelong at him, his brown eyes filled with mirth. He chuckled a bit, "I appreciate your worry, my friend, I really do. But something in my gut is telling me not to leave this issue be."

"Are you going to report it, then?"

"I doubt the Sunstriders will want to do anything about it, regardless of whether I report it or not. No... I’ll leave it be for now unless something worse happens." He didn't feel right not reporting it, but in his heart he knew that in the end nothing would be done. He couldn't shake the image of the young elven girl, no older than a teenager in their years, from his head. The look in her eyes when she told him her name, as though she was telling him a heavily guarded secret.

He needed to find out more.