#is that thunder in the distance or is it the sound of me running away after making you all wait 4 days for this trash?

[stardancerluv]

What the Emperor Wants

Part Twenty - One

Summary: Continuation of Geta and reader’s wedding day. Time jump to a few months later.

Warnings/Notes: 18+ only! Long chapter ahead with time jumps. Dated views on marriage…a woman’s place in society…conception…pregnancy. So there is mention of pregnancy & monthly cycle/period. Consensual P in V intercourse, light fingering.

Violence in the arena mentioned (didn’t make it gruesome!) Mention of the Caracalla baths (we were robbed a bath scenes in the movie), Juno: Roman goddess of marriage, Virtus: Roman god of strength.

❤️s, notes, feedback & reblogs are so welcome. 💐 Thank you so much for reading. 🫣 sorry about the delay in posting!🫣

As he did you moved easily down the steps to edge of the royal box. Following his lead, you watched as Geta waved; you did the same.

Shouts, cheers and the sound of the trumpets filled the air.

“And our beloved, Caracalla is also in attendance with his new sister.”

Glancing to your side Caracalla walked up and waved as you had seen him do several times prior. The cheers and shouts once again filled the air.

“The gods, goddesses have bestowed her upon us.”

Geta, wrapped his arm tighter around you and brought you closer to the edge of the royal box, all you could see were people. You inwardly trembled. Glancing at Geta, you saw a huge, smile that was a cross his face.

His name, yours were chanted by the people. You placed a hand on your chest, gently bowing your head. The hard pounding of your heart, made it hard to breathe. It felt as if you had run a great distance.

“Citizens today’s celebration of my marriage,”

Geta rich, deep voice filled your ears and caused all those in attendance to fall silent.

“is tempered. In the midst of our wedding ceremony assailants attempted to steal her away from me, from all of you. They wanted to deliver her to the underworld before she could be welcomed and embraced by Roman.”

His eyes narrowed as he looked over the crowd. He glanced at you before he looked back and continued.

“The punishment for this has got to be swift, severe.”

There were rumbles from the crowd.

“Today,” His voice thundered. “the world will see what happens if you try and take my wife from me.”

He swallowed. “Bring forth the traitors of Rome.”

There was some screeching and grinding of metal as a gate not far off in one of the curves the arena opened.

“From the north gate, Praetorian guards, Faustus and Aelius are escorting the two whom wished to spill the blood of our empress.“

You watched as two Praetorian Guards escorted out Tertia and her conspirator. Just the sight of them made you ill.

More rumbles from the crowd grew. A few boos, and other negative sounds broke through the hum of the people.

“From the south gate, from the stable of Emperor Geta and his brother Caracalla, the undefeated Gylceo the destroyer is delivering the gods and goddesses earthly tools of punishment.”

Another gate clanked and screeched, groaning even as it open. A broad, ruddy faced gladiator holding strong leather straps, walked out of the shadows. You were certain you had seen him a handful of times. You swallowed, at the end of the leather straps was a bear and tiger.

The bear plodded out and took a swipe at the sand creating a small cloud. Cheers and roars of excitement rumbled from the crowds. The tiger had shaken itself off and without not much of a warning, it crouched low and let out a low growl. You held on tighter to Geta.

“You’re safe here blossom.” He murmured softly to you. “Tiger or bear?” He asked softly.

A tremble went through you. “What say you?”

“Tiger or bear for their punishment, your first decision as empress.” He smiled, a twinkle sparkled in his eyes.

You nodded. “Oh, um.” Chewing on your bottom lip, you glanced back into the arena at the two. “Tiger.”

He smiled, nodding. He rose his other hand, he reached into the air before brining his hand down forming a fist.

In voice, clear and robust he shouted.

“The gods feel a tiger, will be there punishment today.”

“The gods will it. The emperor and the empress will it. May the tiger deliver justice today for the laws you have broken.” The herald announced.

You don’t exactly remember if anything else had been said, but soon you found yourself sitting on your very own throne beside Geta’s. The pillow did provide some comfort.

Looking into the arena, one of the Praetorian guards handed the man a wooden shield. It would do little against the ferocity of a tiger. Tertia, immediately fell to her knees she tugged one of the scarlet cloaks. He shook her off, as he began to move away from the two.

Her words, her screams were barely understandable, perhaps you were beyond caring to want to understand. Perhaps, it was words from her native tongue.

“That could have been you.” Caracalla said, in a low voice.

A chill swept over you. You had thought those moments were behind the two of you. A breath later, a loud cheerful giggle came from him.

“But Dundas saw you and I saw you.” His smile was crooked and bright across his face. “And now I am happy that you are my sister.”

You swallowed, “I am grateful you are my brother.” You replied.

A loud roar cut through the air. You looked just as the gladiator released the tiger. He backed up.

Geta stood, his hands on the edge chimera’s head on his throne. His slender fingers taunt on the aged metal that formed that fearsome creature. His rings were brilliant and colorful like a flowers in a garden. You could practically feel his fingers as they took a hold of you. You longed to feel them again.

There was a snarl that cut through the growing heat of the day.

You watched as the tiger sunk backwards and leapt. Instinctively you jumped back, gasping at the metal meeting your back. Your eyes opening wider as you saw the tiger clash with the wooden shield. It shattered.

The crowd immediately erupted in cheers and screams. The tiger was only momentarily thwarted, it shook itself once more but this time, you could see a fury in the beast. Dust and sand plumed around it. You watched as they both turned and ran.

Geta beckoned to you. “Come wife, stand with me. Let us enjoy the spectacle of justice being served.”

“Yes, husband.” Inwardly your stomach knotted. You had never paused and watched. You had only ever heard swords being brandished or distant screams followed by the roars of the beasts or crowds alike.

Caracalla, to your other side stood. “Get them! Kill them.” His screechy, scratchy scream burst from him. “Hunt them down!” Another chuckle bubbled from him.

The tiger nabbed both. But the man you saw wiggle, slide away. He took one swipe at first, there was carnage and she no longer moved. Tiger moved fast and soon did the same to the man. Dark pools began to form in the sand near them. The tiger appeared pleased, he stopped and licked at one of his large paws.

The trumpet sounds filled the thick air. Cheers followed. You swallowed.

“Wine, fruit.” Geta’s tone was sharp.

You tried not empty your glass moments after it was filled but you had at least half, the girl was good. Attentive, you had seen her a few times but had never spoken. She filled it silently.

The herald, easily spoke of justice and now of the celebratory fights. Distantly, some unnamed people escorted their bodies away. Once again you found yourself sitting besides Geta and nibbling one some fruit. You felt calmer.

Gazing down your eyes caught sight of Geta holding his glass. You felt an eagerness to touch him. You were not sure if that was proper.

“Wife, my empress are you well?”

Blinking , you were met with Geta’s face a mixture of concern and something you couldn’t read.

You nodded. “I guess it’s over now.”

He nodded. “Yes.” He gestured to the arena. “You never peaked in there did you?”

You nodded.

“You only risked treason by glancing at me.”

You flushed. “Yes.”

“You will get used to it. Today was a good day. Normally, it gets boring and tedious.” He shrugged, then added in a quieter voice. “I’m glad you risked treason.”

You finally smiled since what had unfolded in the area before you. “I am too.”

******

He held you to his chest as he absently ran his fingers through your strands. A light dew of your passions clung to the two of you, on their first night of emperor and wife.

“You will have to grow accustomed to those sights. There are many fights, I have to oversee, judge and rule over. I will need you by my side.”

“Truly?”

You were as soft and gentle as the flower petals you reminded him of. He gave you a squeeze.

“Yes.” He tilted your face up, to look into your eyes. His thumb caressed your jaw.

“The next few days they will be more entertaining, a few choice battles won by our very own General Acacius and perhaps one or two naumachiaes.”

Your eyes grew. “I never saw those when I came to work in the royal box.”

“Well, not only will they you see them but you can enjoy them from the comfort of our thrones.”

“Can I get an extra pillow?”

A chuckle bubbled from him. “One day being an empress and you already want another pillow.” He caressed your cheek.

“Is that ok?”

“It’s more than ok. It’s expected.”

“Oh.” You smiled, your cheeks growing pink once again.

His thumb grazed the line of your cheeks. “I do believe we made Juno happy today.”

“I think so as well. But Virtus was along side of you today. When you rescued me, I had been so afraid.”

He could feel tremors go through you. He would not tolerate any malady plaguing you.

He eyed the lines and curves of your face. “I will never tolerate that, blossom. No one shall ever cause you any hard, distress.”

He kissed you. A soft muffled sound came from you but you allowed him to easily deepen the kiss. His heart began to beat harder once again.

“Lay back towards that end of the bed,” He gestured to the portion behind you. “I want to see the stars, the great Luna as our passions make us one while pleasure wraps around us as assuredly as our limbs do. I want my wife, Roman’s empress in their magnificent light.”

“Yes.” You replied softly.

He loved watching how you loved. You did like no other. Easily he crawled over and was half on, half off of you. He ran a hand along your soft side.

“The gods blessed us.” He murmured as he kissed you, a soft coming deep within him as he felt your fingers nestle in his strands.

*******

Your heart had quickened, your breath had shortened. Reaching up, you nestled your fingers into his fiery strands. Bliss was all you could feel. The attack, the tiger long forgotten. It was just him and you, this joy reminded you of tales of the joy the gods, goddesses had.

A pleasurable tightening in your stomach once again knotted as he moved to between your legs. Distantly, as new as this all was. You hoped your body tightened and would take his seed. You were eager to give him a child, a future.

“Geta.”

You moaned softly as you took him all in. He was truly a living breathing work of art. He pulled a whimper from you, feeling his fingers gently graze your center. A smile curled his lips.

“Want to feel me again, blossom? Will you part these petals for me once again tonight?”

“Yes, I need you.” You opened legs wider to receive him. How he appeared settling above you, made your heart squeeze.

“I shall no longer deny the two of us.”

Easily, he slid in till once again you were filled by him. You trembled as his fingers tightened their grip on your hip.

“You are exquisite.” His voice hoarse with pleasure.

All you could do was moan, it was an attempt at his name. He knew and the flame in his eyes grew stronger. As he began moving above you, your walls met him, squeezing him just as your legs wrapped around him.

Feeling him pause you opened your eyes not having realized you had closed them.

“Geta?” You were greeted with anger in his eyes you had not expected after the delicateness he had showed.

“Geta?” You repeated.

His lips formed a line, his thumb gave your hip a gentle, a vague caress before his fingertips grazed the still angry mark that had meant to pierce your heart. Your wedding stola had not been strong, he’d be preparing your funeral.

“Never will anyone ever get that close again. The streets will run red with blood before I allow that.” He murmured.

“And you took care of it. People know how you care for me, for their empress.”

It felt weird, saying that aloud about yourself. You had always been simply a young girl who had the wilds of nature under her feet and the sound of waves on occasion filling her hears. You had never thought anything higher than wife would be your title.

“They will learn if they did not today.”

Shifting still deep inside of you, he gripped the sheets that were already rumpled from earlier and it was not long before the two of you gave up to the passions you both felt. Your moans mingled and became one like your bodies.

******

Stirring, the sky was still a deep purple dawn would be upon Rome soon. Realization, came over you that you and Geta were a tangle of sheets and your own limbs. A softness had claimed Geta in his sleep, his hair ruffled and messy; some errant strands stuck to his forehead.

You brushed that aside. “I will love you to my dying day.” You whispered, and pressed a kiss to one of his cheeks. Your new life was ahead of you.

*********

You laid on the carpet of a leopard pelt, at least that is what you thought Geta had called the beast it had come from. It was soft made you forget the stone that was just underneath it. You glanced up at the cool, blue sky. The warmth of summer was drawing to a close. It would not be long before you could not lounge such as this in the gardens.

You had taken Geta’s advice and fully embrace being an empress. You had not been shy when a pillow, a blanket was needed or when you were terribly tired of being pricked by pins when clothes were made for you. Your voice rose a few times.

You were still not terribly demanding, since life had not always been so easy for you. Yet, in the short month, you had just been his mere possession; had made it easier for you to grow accustomed to be served. There still remained moments that still cloyed at you. There was limitations placed upon you that you had not entirely expected. You brought a hand up to rest your cheek as you remembered a moment that reaffirmed your new place in life.

In a cloak, with the hood up you were not completely unmindful of your place; when you ventured out to the markets. You missed the bartering of little possessions and the like. You had gotten a very good back and forth with one of the merchants when a guard arrived, Gallus. The man’s eyes grew and immediately fell to his knees, he pushed forward the beautiful scarf that had caught your eye; he mumbled about allowing you anything else you wished.

Before leaving with the scarf, Gallus was in tow but not before he snatched up an apple and contently took a loud crunching bite.

Aelia greeted you and mumbled of Geta’s ruffled mood before he had come in like a storm cloud.

In the last couple of months, when you did leave; guards remained in your shadow. You did hate upsetting Geta but you did miss the freedom to go and move around as you pleased. Well, at least when had been a good time to do so.

“Empress,” Aelia soft voice broke through your thoughts.

“Aelia.” You sat up, pushing yourself up from the soft fur. “Just like Geta, what did I tell you of this?”

She bowed her head. “I am sorry.”

“I was not long ago as you.”

“The gods have always held you higher.”

You remained silent. You had not felt like you had the particular energy to have this discussion once again with her.

“How are you feeling today?”

“A tiredness is still lingering.”

“Once again would you like me to look at you?”

“I wish my mother was here.”

On soft steps, she drew closer. “I know.”

*******

“This could deliver the distraction to move their attentions away from the empress.”

The senator gently touched a corner of the plans for the baths that Caracalla had been speaking of.

“Only so many battles in the arena will.” The senator continued softly. As he gestured to Caracalla’s plans before him.

Geta paused in his pacing, he slammed a fist down on the table. Dondas, went from one Caracalla’s shoulder to the other.

“They should love their empress, as I do.”

Geta twisted one of his rings, his eyes narrowed as he looked at one of the few senators, that didn’t rankle him like the others. The man remained silent.

“They had said I, Caracalla;”

He gestured to his brother who remained sitting. A pleased, lop sided smile was on his face. He was happy to see that plans had been drawn up.

“Had gone far away from the Roman ideal.”

Geta, mimicked a citizens voice.

“Their empress not terribly long ago had been like one of them; did they forget?”

His lips winkled in his annoyance.

“There are whispers, that it had been a ploy; a story.”

“I do not care to appease them on this manner. I will continue to lavish all the best upon her.”

“What if one chooses to rise up against you because of her?”

Geta turned to the man, he shifted where he stood and looked down. Easily the closed the distance. “They will meet their end in the arena.”

“They wouldn’t dare.” Caracalla’s mouth dipped on one side.“Then maybe we really should move forward with the baths.” Caralla quickly added.

Geta smiled. “Brother, I truly believe you have an idea we can all support. It will be a good distraction since General Acacius is still away and fighting.”

******

The soft fabrics peeled away easily. Her warm, dry fingers drift over your stomach. “I have noticed your appetite has grown. Do you feel the need to eat is greater?”

You nodded. “I have no bled for two months.” You glanced at her and as if for the first time did notice that there was a gentle swell of your stomach.

“That is surely a sign, were you not even told this by your mother?”

"I was only as a child, when she fretted over my brother’s wife.”

You heard her mutter about the plague, that brought their end. “I feel you are mostly certainly with child. Have you not had any nightly visits?”

“I mused they were hopes, wishes of a newly married girl.”

The woman shook her head, easily her fingers placed your clothes back as they were.

“I do not whispers to reach him before you get to speak to him. He will want to know.”

“Now?”

“Before the gathering tonight. Perhaps, it can be something to rise the spirits besides the food and drink.”

“Oh, yes.”

Excitement fluttered in you.

“We will have to create a new alter, one to show my gratitude to Juno and the goddesses to bestowing a child upon me.”

“I will get that in order.”

*****

Going to chambers you sat down on the table that now held some beautiful treasures Geta had been giving you. You smiled as you glanced at the bracelet he first gave you, you would never remove it from your wrist.

@honey-eyed-munson @amethyst-serenade @laura-naruto-fan1998 @screaming-blue-bagel @kitkat80 @blondie324 @alyisdead @hellomadamebutterfly @helsa3942 @marrowfrog00 @misspendragonsworld @therealjomarch @deliciousfestsalad @aspiringwhore @justalittlebitshy @littlemissholy @ruinedbythehobbit @bib200 @yes7686

[minniesfiles]

AREN’T YOU FORGETTING SOMETHING?

when you pretend to forget the morning kiss before leaving for work.

❧ PAIRING; soonyoung x reader

❧ GENRE; fluff

❧ TAGS/WARNINGS; drabble, fluff, established relationship, prank

❧ WORDCOUNT; 0.5k

𐚁₊⊹

It was a ritual, every morning, that you and your husband exchanged a goodbye kiss by the door before leaving for work. Today, however, you had a different plan. Soonyoung was never the one to miss no matter how mad he would be at you, but you wanted to test how he’d react if you did.

As you stood in the entryway, Soonyoung leaned in for your usual goodbye kiss. His eyes were soft and lips curved into a faint smile. He tilted his head slightly and expected you to respond. But before he could close the distance, you turned abruptly and grabbed your bag from the counter.

“Bye babe!” you chirped. You waved over your shoulder without a second glance, and your heels clicked against the floor as you darted out the door.

Soonyoung froze, his lips still slightly puckered, blinking in confusion. “Huh?” he muttered as his brows knitted together.

Slowly, he lowered his head, and the warmth of his usual smile was replaced with a bewildered frown. He stood rooted in place as he stared at the door you just breezed through. He tried to comprehend what just happened.

You, on the other hand, were already halfway down the driveway, giggling under your breath. You could barely contain yourself as you glanced back at the front door to see if Soonyoung had moved. When he didn’t appear immediately, your laughter spilled out in full.

You thought you had gotten away with it — until you heard the sound of the door opening behind you.

“Y/n!” your husband’s firm voice rang out, but you could detect a playful edge in his tone at the same time. Your giggles turned into an outright cackle as you picked up your pace to run towards your car.

“You’re not leaving me like that!” he called after you, and you could hear his footsteps thundering down the driveway.

You turned your head mid-sprint, your long wavy hair bouncing with every step, and saw Soonyoung hot on your heels. His tie flapped against his chest as he ran. “Catch me if you can!” you teased, sounding breathless with laughter.

Soonyoung grinned as his earlier confusion melted into amusement. “Oh, don’t worry, I will!”

In just a few strides, he closed the gap between you. You squealed as Soonyoung wrapped his arms around your waist and spun you around like a victorious hunter capturing his prey.

“You thought you could just skip our kiss and get away with it?” he asked, his voice mock-stern, though his grin said something else.

“Maybe!” you continued to tease, still laughing as you wriggled in his grasp. Soonyoung shook his head and pulled you closer.

“Nice try.” Then, without waiting for your permission, he leaned in and planted a kiss squarely on your lips, leaving you breathless in a completely different way.

As he set you down gently, your cheeks flushed. “Fine, you win” you admitted with a smile.

Soonyoung smirked, smoothing his tie, “you should know by now, I always do.”

[thestarsaboveme]

this was a request from a kind anon.

summary: angst with comfort, reader and lads men having a misunderstanding because reader is overthinking that they’re cheating on her with the mc since they always spend time with the mc and spending less time with the reader.

xavier ver. | rafayel ver. | sylus ver. | caleb ver.

zayne x reader | angst/comfort

It started with unanswered messages.

Then missed calls.

Then the quiet shift in your routines. Zayne showing up later, leaving earlier, his brow constantly furrowed voice always tired.

You told yourself it was just the workload. He was a doctor, after all. A man carrying the weight of every life that depended on his hands.

But lately…he'd been carrying that weight with someone else at his side.

MC.

And you couldn't stop the spiral that followed.

-

''Patient priority,'' he'd said the last time you made dinner. ''MC and I are working together all week. Critical cases.''

He barely touched the plate you'd made him.

You nodded and smiled, like you always did, telling yourself not to be petty.

But how could you ignore the fact that she was always there? That they moved like two parts of the same instinct in the hospital? That when he finally did respond to your texts, he'd said things like ''MC just understands.''

As if you didn't.

As if you weren't enough anymore.

The worst part? Zayne wasn't the type to flirt. He didn't slip up. So if he were developing feelings for MC, it wouldn't be obvious. He'd just…pill away.

Like now.

Like this.

Your hand hovered over your phone as you sat curled up on the edge of your bed, cold dinner on the nightstand beside you.

You typed the message three time before finally sending it.

I need to see you tonight. Please. It's important.

His reply came twenty minutes later.

I'll be there in an hour.

You weren't sure whether the ache in your chest was relief or dread.

When he arrived, the weight of his presence filled the room the way it always did. Like quiet thunder wrapped in a white coat and tired eyes.

He removed his glasses silently, posture taut. ''You sounded upset.''

You nodded, swallowing the knot in your throat. ''I am.''

He studied your face for a moment, sharp eyes scanning like they always did in the emergency room. Searching for signs, symptoms, the source of pain. You wondered if he'd even recognize that the wound this time was him.

''I need to ask you something,'' you said, barely above a whisper. ''And I need you to be honest.''

''I always am.''

''Are you cheating on me…with MC?''

The words fell like stones into a bottomless well. Heavy. Final. Loud in their simplicity.

Zayne froze.

Not visibly. But you knew him too well. It was in the slightest shift in his breathing, the way his shoulders straightened a fraction too sharply.

''No,'' he said, voice even.

''Then why does it feel like I'm losing you?'' you whispered.

His jaw clenched. ''You're not.''

You stood up, heart pounding. ''Then explain why you're always with her. Why your attention's always on her. Why when we do speak, all you talk about is MC. Her instincts, her decisions in the field. It's like you admire her more than me. Like I've become…invisible.''

Zayne looked at you like your words had struck deeper than any scalpel ever could.

''I didn't realize you felt that way,'' he said.

''That's because you've been somewhere else, Zayne. You've been hers. Emotionally, mentally. And I'm here, sitting with every meal you missed, every plan you forgot, wondering what I did wrong.''

''You did nothing wrong,'' he said. Sharper now, not with anger, but something more desperate. Urgent.

You looked away, blinking against the sting behind your eyes, ''Then why does it feel like you don't want me anymore?''

A long silence followed.

Then.

''Because I'm afraid I'm going to lose you.''

Your gaze snapped back to him. ''What?''

Zayne stepped forward, closing the distance with the same quiet certainty he used in the OR when time was running out.

''I've seen what happens when someone becomes your everything,'' he said. ''When you stop thinking clinically. When fear clouds your judgment. When love makes you hesitate. And that hesitation costs lives.''

You blinked, stunned.

''I thought if I kept things efficient,'' he continued, ''if I buried myself in work and leaned on MC for tactical decisions, maybe I could keep you at a safe distance. Protect you from this life. From me.''

You stared. ''You were pushing me away on purpose?''

''Not to hurt you,'' he said, softer now. ''To protect you. But I see now I've only hurt you more.''

You shook your head, stepping back. ''You don't get to make that choice for me. You don't get to decide I'm better off without the truth.''

Zayne's voice cracked, barely, but enough.

''I didn't mean to make you feel like you weren't enough. You are. Every time I see you, it's like the noise in my head quiets. And that terrifies me, because if I lose that…''

He couldn't finish.

''You thought loving me made you weaker,'' you whispered.

''I thought loving you made you a liability,' he said quietly.'' he said quietly, ''Not because you are. But because I am. Because I'd choose you over protocol in a heartbeat. And people get hurt when you put your heart before your duty.''

You let out a shaky breath. ''MC isn't the one I'm jealous of because she's special to you. I'm jealous because she gets the part of you that I'm supposed to have. The honest part. The present part.''

Zayne stepped closer again, his hand rising, but stopping just short of your face. Hesitant. As if he thought he'd already lost the right.

''You're right to be angry,'' he said. ''And you have every right to walk away.''

You searched his eyes. The same eyes that used to make you feel safe. Now, they look tired. Scared.

''Is that what you want?'' you asked. ''For me to leave?''

''No,'' he said immediately. ''But I'll accept it if it's what you need.''

The silence stretched between you.

''I don't want to leave,'' you said at last. ''I want you back. The man who used to stay up with me after long shifts, who whispered about what constellations mean in ancient texts. The man who looked at me like I was worth fighting for, even when he had nothing left.''

Zayne closed his eyes for a moment, like your words were a wound he'd been waiting to feel.

Then he reached for you. Slow, reverent.

You didn't move away.

You leaned into his touch, letting the warmth of his skin soothe the cold that had been in your chest for days.

His fingers brushed your jaw, then settled there gently.

''He's still here,'' he said, voice thick with emotion. ''No more protecting you by erasing us.''

''I don't need you to be invincible, Zayne,'' you murmured. ''I just need you to be you. With me.''

''I can do that,'' he whispered.

And when he held you this time, it wasn't as a doctor shielding someone from pain.

It was a man choosing to stay.

To feel.

To love.

[bangchangbinnie]

A love not recalled l.mh

Lee Know x reader

After an argument that should have never happened, Lee know is left regretful, not realizing he’d need a lot more than apologies to fix the pain

Genre: Heavy Angst, Hurt/Comfort

Warnings: Car accident, memory loss, emotional distress, breakdown

The morning was slow, quiet, a gentle hum of normalcy before the storm. Sunlight filtered through the thin curtains of the apartment you shared with Lee Know, casting soft golden hues over the wooden floors. You had woken up before him, padding into the kitchen with bare feet, rubbing the sleep from your eyes as you prepared coffee. The soft bubbling of the pot filled the silence, and you allowed yourself a small smile.

Lee Know had been distant for weeks, his temper short, his patience nearly nonexistent. He came home late, barely spoke to you, and when he did, it was as if he was forcing himself to engage. You told yourself it was the stress of work, the exhaustion that came with constant rehearsals and performances. But deep down, a small voice whispered doubts—doubts that had been growing, festering beneath the surface like an untreated wound.

Still, you had hope. Maybe today would be better.

When Lee Know finally emerged from the bedroom, hair messy from sleep, he barely spared you a glance before reaching for his phone. His movements were robotic as he poured himself a cup of coffee, standing at the counter, scrolling.

“Good morning,” you greeted softly. He grunted in response.

You sighed but didn’t push. Instead, you leaned against the counter, watching him. “Are you working late today?”

“Probably,” he muttered.

“Want me to bring you dinner later?”

He finally looked up, and for a moment, there was something in his eyes—something weary. But it was gone just as quickly. “I don’t know, Y/N. I might not even have time to eat.”

The dismissiveness in his tone stung more than it should have. Lately, every attempt to reach him felt like knocking on a locked door.

You nodded, swallowing down the disappointment. “Okay.”

-

By the time the late afternoon rolled in, the sky had turned a sullen shade of gray, and rain drummed steadily against the apartment windows. The air inside felt thick, heavy with unspoken words and lingering tension, mirroring the storm outside. The occasional roll of thunder rumbled in the distance, a low, warning growl that seemed to echo the unease between you and Lee Know.

You sat on the couch, absently watching the raindrops streak down the glass, your fingers tightening around the blanket draped over your lap. The warmth of the coffee in your hands did little to thaw the cold weight settling in your chest. Lee Know had been on edge all day, his responses clipped, his frustration simmering just beneath the surface. You had tried to be understanding, reminding yourself that he was stressed, that this distance wasn’t intentional—but after weeks of this, of feeling like you were talking to a stranger, the patience you had been clinging to was wearing thin.

The steady patter of rain filled the silence as he moved around the apartment, gathering his things with rigid movements. The sound of his duffel bag being zipped up made your stomach twist. You knew he was leaving for practice, but it felt like he was walking away from something much bigger than just an evening out.

The tension was thick as you watched him from the kitchen, his movements mechanical as he tied his shoes by the door, getting ready to leave.

“Do you want breakfast?” you asked softly, hoping to break the silence.

“No,” he answered flatly, not even looking up.

Your grip on the coffee mug tightened. “You barely ate anything last night.”

Lee Know sighed, running a hand through his damp hair. “I’ll eat later.”

The dismissal stung, but you swallowed it down, forcing yourself to keep your voice steady. “Are you mad at me?” Lee Know finally looked up from his phone, his gaze sharp and unyielding. “What?”

“You’ve been avoiding me,” you said, voice softer than you intended. “Barely talking to me. If I did something wrong, just tell me, Minho.”

His expression darkened, frustration flickering across his face like a gathering storm. His fingers clenched slightly, his shoulders stiff. “Not everything is about you, Y/N.”

Your stomach twisted. “I never said it was.”

“Then stop acting like I owe you an explanation for every little thing,” he snapped, his tone edged with impatience as he stood abruptly, shoving his phone into his pocket.

Your breath hitched. “I just want to understand. I don’t get why you’re shutting me out—why you act like you don’t even want to be here anymore.”

A bitter scoff left his lips, his head shaking as he ran a hand through his hair. “Maybe because I don’t.”

The air was sucked from your lungs. Your heartbeat pounded in your ears, the weight of his words crashing into you like an unforgiving wave. For a moment, the world seemed to tilt, your vision blurring as you searched his face for any sign of regret. But there was none. Only indifference.

“You don’t mean that,” you whispered, barely able to force the words out.

His eyes were cold when they met yours. “I do.”

The finality in his voice was worse than if he had screamed it. Your throat closed, your entire body going rigid. Every single moment you had spent by his side, every night you had waited up for him, every sacrifice you had made—was all of it meaningless to him?

Something inside you splintered. The exhaustion, the loneliness, the feeling of constantly fighting for a place in his life—it all boiled over into something raw, something sharp.

“You’re such an asshole, Minho,” you said, voice trembling. “I have done nothing but try to love you, try to be there for you, and all you do is treat me like I’m some burden.”

His gaze flashed, something unreadable flickering in his expression before it hardened again. “Maybe you are.” The words struck like a knife, cutting so deep you felt it in your bones. The silence that followed was deafening.

Your hands clenched at your sides, nails digging into your palms as you struggled to keep your voice steady. “What?”

“You heard me,” he said, his voice void of warmth. “You’re always clinging. Always wanting more from me. Always needing reassurance. It’s exhausting, Y/N.”

Tears burned at the back of your eyes, but you refused to let them fall. Your chest ached, the weight of his words pressing down on you like a crushing force.

“I’m exhausting?” you repeated, voice barely above a whisper. “You know what’s exhausting, Minho? Loving someone who makes you feel like you’re never enough. Giving and giving until you have nothing left, only to be told that you were too much all along.”

His bitter laugh was sharp, almost cruel. “If you were enough, we wouldn’t be having this conversation.”

The final blow.

A strangled breath escaped your lips, your vision swimming with tears. The room felt too small, suffocating. You took a shaky step back, your heart pounding so violently it hurt.

You had loved him. Completely, recklessly. You had stayed when things got hard, had given him everything you had to give. But in the end, it still wasn’t enough for him.

And maybe it never would be.

Your hands trembled as you grabbed your coat from the hook by the door, your vision blurred by the tears you refused to shed in front of him. He stood there, unmoving, watching you with that same cold, detached expression.

“I hate you,” you choked out, your voice raw, stripped of all its strength. “I hate you so fucking much.”

And then you turned, storming out of the apartment, leaving behind the shattered remains of everything you had once believed in.

-

By the time you got behind the wheel, your entire body trembled with the force of your emotions. Your hands shook violently as they tightened around the steering wheel, your knuckles whitening from the pressure. The air in the car felt suffocating, thick with the remnants of your sobs, but no matter how much you tried to steady your breathing, it remained ragged—uneven, like the broken pieces of your heart.

You’re always clinging.

You’re exhausting.

Maybe you’re not enough.

His words echoed relentlessly in your head, searing through your chest like an open wound, each syllable sinking deeper, cutting sharper. No matter how many times you tried to shake them away, they lingered, poisoning your thoughts, feeding the storm inside you.

Rain pounded against the windshield in relentless sheets, distorting the glow of streetlights and headlights into a blurry, surreal mess. The rhythmic slap of the windshield wipers barely kept up, struggling to clear the cascading water from your line of sight. But you didn’t care. You barely registered anything beyond the suffocating weight in your chest, the sting behind your eyes, the erratic rise and fall of your breath.

You forced yourself to focus on the road ahead, but it was impossible to think straight when every nerve in your body was screaming, raw from the argument that had just unraveled the very fabric of your relationship.

Tears streaked down your cheeks, hot and unrelenting, mixing with the cold sweat that clung to your skin. A sob built in your throat, but you swallowed it back, your jaw clenching painfully. You had cried enough. You had begged enough. And for what? For him to tell you that you were a burden?

Your heart clenched painfully at the memory, at the way he had stood there, unmoved, unbothered, as if he hadn’t just shattered everything between you.

Your vision wavered. You tried to blink the tears away, but they only seemed to come faster, burning as they fell. Your chest felt tight, constricted, as though you were gasping for air that refused to come.

And then—

Blinding light.

A pair of headlights surged into view from the corner of your eye, piercing through the rain and darkness like an unforgiving force of fate.

Your breath caught in your throat.

A horn blared through the storm, long and sharp, the sound slicing through your muddled thoughts, forcing a split second of clarity.

Too close. Too fast.

Your hands yanked the wheel instinctively, but the tires skidded against the slick pavement, sending your car spinning out of control. The world tilted violently, your stomach lurching as your body was flung forward against the seatbelt. The sheer force knocked the air from your lungs, your head snapping sideways as the sound of screeching brakes, twisting metal, and shattering glass filled the air.

For a moment, everything felt suspended in time. A cruel, agonizing pause where pain had yet to register, where your mind barely had the chance to process what was happening.

Then—impact. A violent jolt. A deafening crash.

Your body slammed against the restraints, the seatbelt digging into your chest with bruising force. Your skull struck something hard—the window, the dashboard, you couldn’t tell. Stars exploded in your vision, blinding white-hot pain searing through your head as glass rained down like fractured ice.

A strangled gasp tore from your throat.

Pain. Sharp, unbearable, overwhelming.

Your fingers twitched, trying to reach for something—anything—to ground yourself, but the world was slipping through your grasp. The chaos of sound began to fade, muffled as though you were sinking underwater. The storm outside raged on, but it was distant now, a world away from where you were.

Your eyelids grew impossibly heavy. Your limbs refused to move, weighed down by something you couldn’t fight against.

Cold crept in, numbing, swallowing everything.

And then—

Nothing.

-

The vibration of his phone against the wooden table barely registered in Lee Know’s mind. He had been staring at the screen for the past few hours, waiting for a message—any message—from you. But there was nothing.

Not a single call. Not a single text.

Just silence.

His jaw clenched as he threw his phone onto the couch beside him, rubbing a hand over his tired eyes. You were being dramatic. That’s what he told himself, over and over again. You were punishing him by ignoring him, waiting for him to be the one to reach out first.

But even as he tried to convince himself, a nagging unease settled deep in his gut.

Two days.

It had been two days since you walked out of the apartment. Two days since he had let his anger get the best of him, let cruel words spill from his lips—words he never should have said.

He had expected you to call. To yell at him, to cry, to make him feel guilty the way you always did when you fought. But you hadn’t.

And the longer the silence stretched, the more restless he became.

His pride kept him from dialing your number, but it didn’t stop his mind from racing with possibilities. Were you staying at a friend’s place? Had you gone back to your family’s house? Had you—

His phone buzzed against the couch.

Lee Know exhaled sharply, snatching it up without thinking. His chest tightened as he saw the caller ID. Chan.

Not you.

Disappointment flickered in his chest, but he pressed the answer button anyway. “What?” he muttered, his voice rougher than intended.

There was silence on the other end. Too long, too heavy. A bad feeling settled deep in his bones.

Then, Chan’s voice came through the line, quiet and grim.

“She got into an accident.”

The words didn’t make sense at first. They hung in the air between them, sharp and disorienting, like a slap to the face. Lee Know sat up straighter, his grip tightening around his phone. “What?” he asked, his voice hoarse.

Chan exhaled slowly, as if preparing himself to repeat it.

“It happened two days ago,” he said, each word falling like a stone in the pit of Lee Know’s stomach. “She’s in the hospital.”

The entire room blurred.

His ears started ringing, his vision tunneling as his mind tried—and failed—to process the information.

Two days ago. The same night she left.

The same night he let her leave. His heartbeat pounded against his ribs, erratic and painful, like it was trying to escape his chest.

He had sat here for the past forty-eight hours convincing himself that you were ignoring him, that you were fine, while you had been lying in a hospital bed.

Hurt. Alone.

His breath came in short, shallow bursts. “Where—” His voice cracked. He swallowed, forcing his throat to work. “Where is she?”

“Seoul General,” Chan said immediately, his voice careful, like he was waiting for the moment Lee Know completely unraveled. “Minho, listen, there’s something you should know before—”

But Lee Know was already grabbing his keys, shoving his feet into his shoes. “I’m on my way.”

“Minho—”

He hung up.

The drive to the hospital was a blur, his fingers gripping the steering wheel so tightly they ached. His mind replayed every second of the argument, every harsh word he had thrown at you.

You’re exhausting.

Maybe you’re not enough.

His own words rang in his head, cruel and venomous. His stomach churned violently. Had those been the last things he ever said to you? What if—

No.

No, he couldn’t think like that.

His foot pressed harder on the gas, ignoring the honking cars and blaring traffic lights as he raced through the city. He didn’t care if he got pulled over. He didn’t care if he wrecked his car.

The only thing that mattered was getting to you.

Because he should have been there. He should have been the one to call you, to go after you, to make sure you were okay. Instead, he had let you walk out into the rain—into this.

And now, he didn’t know if he would ever forgive himself.

-

When he stormed into the hospital, his mind was a blur of panic and dread. He barely heard the receptionist’s words as she directed him to your room. The sterile scent of antiseptic filled his nose, sharp and overwhelming, making his stomach churn.

His hands were clammy as he reached for the door handle, but nothing could have prepared him for what was on the other side.

And then he saw you.

The sight of you nearly stole the breath from his lungs.

You were lying against the stark white pillows, the hospital bed swallowing your small, fragile frame. An IV was attached to your arm, the machine beside you beeping steadily. A bandage was wrapped around your forehead, and deep bruises bloomed all across your body, a cruel contrast against your fragile, pale skin. You had a nasty black eye and a cast on your arm.

His chest tightened painfully, his heart hammering so hard that he thought it might break through his ribs.

But it wasn’t the injuries that destroyed him. It was the way you looked at him. Not with anger. Not with resentment. Not even with sadness.

Just blank, unfamiliar confusion. You frowned slightly, tilting your head. “Who… are you?”

Lee Know’s stomach dropped.

His mouth opened, but nothing came out. His body felt frozen, his breath caught somewhere between his lungs and throat. You didn’t know him. You didn’t recognize him.

The weight of it crashed into him all at once, a cold, suffocating wave that stole every ounce of strength he had left. His entire world tilted off its axis, leaving him grasping for something—anything—to keep himself from breaking.

His worst nightmare had come true.

He forced himself to take a step forward, even though every part of him wanted to collapse.

“I’m Minho,” he whispered, his voice barely holding together. “I… I’m your boyfriend.”

Your brow furrowed, something like sympathy flickering in your expression. But it wasn’t recognition.

It wasn’t love.

“I’m sorry,” you said softly, your voice tinged with uncertainty. “I don’t… I don’t remember you.”

The words sliced through him like a blade.

A sharp, broken sound escaped him—something between a gasp and a sob. His hands trembled at his sides, his fingers curling into tight fists as his entire body shook.

This couldn’t be real. This wasn’t how this was supposed to go.

He was supposed to come here and apologize. He was supposed to tell you how wrong he had been, how much he regretted everything he had said. He was supposed to beg for your forgiveness, to make you see that he never meant a single word of the venom he had thrown at you.

But now—

Now, you didn’t even know who he was.

His throat tightened as his vision blurred, hot tears spilling down his cheeks before he could stop them. His breath came in short, uneven gasps, his chest rising and falling erratically as the crushing weight of his mistakes pressed down on him.

You were right in front of him, but you were gone.

Lee Know sucked in a trembling breath, lifting a hand to his mouth as if it would somehow hold in the emotions threatening to tear him apart. His legs felt weak, barely able to hold him up.

His voice cracked when he finally spoke.

“You don’t remember me at all?”

You hesitated, looking down at your lap, fingers twisting in the thin hospital blanket. “No… I’m really sorry.”

He let out a quiet, shaky breath, a humorless laugh slipping past his lips. “Don’t be,” he murmured, wiping at his wet cheeks. “I think… I think that’s my punishment.”

Because he had been cruel. He had let his anger and pride destroy everything you had built together. He had told himself you’d come back.

But now, the universe had punished him in the worst way possible. You couldn’t come back.

You didn’t even remember what you were coming back to.

[heizlut]

Closing the Distance

ꕀ cw: mention of blood/injury (nonsexual related)

ꕀ tags: fem!reader, inexperienced and possibly ooc!calcharo, oral f!receiving, first-time sex, breeding kink, creampie, mostly proofread

ꕀ nsfw under the cut

ꕀ m!list here

Calcharo didn't expect this at all. He only agreed to help you find and fight against the tacet discords that had sprung up from a particularly strong tacet field. But here you were, laying underneath him and looking up at him with big eyes, your chest heaving with heavy breaths and your lips looking quite inviting.

All he was trying to do was get you out of harm's way by practically tackling you to the ground and caging you in with his own body as the final tacet discord emitted an explosive energy as it was struck down. It wasn't anything special, he swears it's not.

You clear your throat awkwardly, blush evident on your cheeks, "You can uh... get off me now..." You avert your gaze, unable to properly look him in the eyes, not now, and not since you felt something particularly...hard brush against your stomach. Your words snap Calcharo out of his daze, heat rising to his own pale features, "Ah, y-yes. I apologize..." He moves off of you and stands up, extending his hand towards you to help you up as well.

You take it, pulling yourself up and let go abruptly, "Thanks for your help today." Calcharo looks down at his hand where the warmth of your touch still lingered, then curls it into a fist, "It was no problem." The air felt heavy and awkward. There was something bubbling up inside of him that felt wholly unfamiliar. He rolls his eyes at himself and he turns away from you. Why was he acting like this? As if he's never seen a pretty girl before... How pathetic.

He peeks over at you as you absorb the echoes, taking in your strong but soft form. Calcharo could at least admit he found you to be a strong fighter, you were part of the Ghost Hounds after all. He was familiar with you, so why was he feeling like this now. He's never had time to form a romantic relationship with anyone nor has he ever felt the need to. He had more important things to worry about than getting his dick wet and being all soft with someone.

You meet he gaze, noticing that he's staring at you again with his intense blue-grey eyes. You raise a brow as you walk back over to him, "What's the matter with you today? You seem off." Calcharo huffs, looking annoyed as he turns his face away from you and crosses his arms, his voice deep and monotone as usual, "I'm fine." You study him for a moment and then shrug, "Whatever you say. Let's get going." As you move past him, Calcharo notices your gait, "You're limping."

You freeze in your tracks, having hoped that whatever was bothering him would keep him distracted enough to not notice. He already did so much for you today, you wanted to handle your injury yourself. You feel his large hand on your shoulder as he stops beside you, "Why didn't you say anything?" You want to shrug off his hand, but you don't; instead you sigh, "It's not a big deal. Let's just-" "No", Calcharo cuts you off quickly, moving in front of you, "At least let me take a look."

"I don't think that's such a good idea...", you say a little softer than you had liked. Remaining stern and stoic as ever, Calcharo crosses his arms as he looks down at you, "And why would that be?" His question sounds icy and he must've realized it because he tone softens when he speaks again, "You're injured and I wouldn't be a very good leader if I didn't look out for another member." Thunder rumbles in the distance, a sure sign that a storm was on its way. You look down and then grab his arm, surprising him, "Fine. But let's not be out in the open..."

⌁ϟ༒︎ϟ⌁⌁ϟ༒︎ϟ⌁⌁ϟ༒︎ϟ⌁

If you hadn't been injured and limping, the two of you wouldn't be soaked from the rain you had gotten caught in. Slamming the wooden door shut of the run-down cabin you found in the woods, you immediately sink down onto the floor. "How did you know this place was...", Calcharo's voice trails off as his blue-grey eyes find the growing patch of blood on your upper thigh, immediately crouching down to your level.

His intense eyes take in your features, your face flushed red from a slight fever and a couple droplets of water run down your face to your neck. Calcharo's hand reaches for your wounded thigh before pausing, hovering right over the wound, "May I?" You grit your teeth and nod. With uncharacteristically shaky hands, he undoes your pants and helps you lift your hips off the ground as he lowers them. In his head, he repeats over and over that this is just to treat you. That's it!

But he can't help glancing at your cotton panties... There was nothing particularly special about them, but the way they hugged your hips, pressing close against your pussy underneath; it had him inadvertently licking his lips. Calcharo shakes his head and looks to the open cut on your thigh. He does his best to make sure his voice comes out even as he speaks, "It's not too deep. There's just a lot of blood from straining yourself." You point to your bag, "There's a first aid kit in there..."

With a single nod, he grabs the bag and rummages through it til his fingers brush against the small first aid box. He grabs it and mentally prepares himself to give you stitches while also trying so damn hard to stop from popping a boner at the sight of you.

You were injured, for fucks sake! Now wasn't the time to suddenly sprout inappropriate thoughts that he had never had an issue with before. Sensing his hesitation, you practically snatch the kit from his hands, making him blink in shock.

Though flushed with a bit of a fever, drenched from the rain, and injured, you still have the nerve to narrow your eyes at him, "I can do it myself." His jaw hangs open for a moment but he quickly shuts it, returning to his usual cold demeanor, "Fine." He sits back, watching as you thread the curved needle and piece your own flesh as you stitch yourself up. Mentally he cringes on your behalf, but you barely react as your skin closes with the thread.

If anything, seeing just how strong you are, not just physically, but mentally, it makes things even harder for him, quite literally. His cock throbs in his pants and he presses down on it, willing it to just go the fuck away. After tying up the thread and cleaning off the remaining blood, you look his way, noticing his hands pressing down in his lap and you raise a brow, a weak smirk playing on your lips, "Are you seriously hard right now?"

Calcharo's eyes flick to yours, all wide-eyed as he looks at you, then he frowns and looks away, "No, I'm not." You breathe out a laugh that does nothing to help the ache in his pants, "Really? Then move your hands." Calcharo grimaces, his nose scrunched in what looks similar to a snarling dog, "I don't want to." You just shrug, looking amused albeit still a bit weak from your condition, "Suit yourself then. It just looks like you're having a bit of a rough time."

He turns his body away from you, not wanting to listen to anymore of your teasing. "It wouldn't be very nice of me to not show my gratitude to my leader for helping me so much today...", you trail off with a teasing lilt in your voice. Calcharo straightens up and peeks at your over his shoulder, "What do you mean...'show your gratitude'?" Hook, line, and sinker. You put on a more nonchalant look and sigh heavily, "I'm simply saying that since you helped me out..." You look into his eyes again, "I could help you out as well."

Too many thoughts race through Calcharo's mind. How could he even take you up on that offer, especially when you're injured. Especially since he shouldn't be having thoughts like this. Especially because you were special to him. Wait... You were... special to him? When did he feel this way towards you? I mean, sure he always went with you whenever you were itching for a fight and he did talk with you a little more frequently than the others, albeit not too much.

You can tell his mind is racing, so you lean forward, ignoring the bit of pain in your wounded thigh, and place your hand on his shoulder, "Just quit thinking, Calcharo." Your hushed voice and hot breath fan across his ear, sending tingles straight down to his cock. Fuck it. He turns around and faces you once more, his face close to yours as he speaks low and deep, "I don't want to hurt you." His eyes are on yours, but yours are on his lips as you speak again, "You won't."

Before he can protest again, your lips are on his in a soft, but demanding kiss. Calcharo is frozen for a moment, having never done this before. Hell, he's never done anything romantic or sexual in the past. But the plush softness of your lips on his has him beginning to melt. He returns the kiss hesitantly at first, but once he finds the right rhythm with you, he finds himself leaning into you more. His hands are on your flushed cheeks and your heat radiates into his palms.

Your tongue prods his lower lip, begging for entrance to which he allows, parting his lips as you tongue slips in and moves against his. It's a slippery feeling, but you taste so sweet.

Without having realized it, Calcharo has you caged in underneath him yet again, although this time is was special. Your legs are spread to accommodate his body between your legs and your fingers are tangled in his wet, but long silver hair.

Your lips brush against his, "As much as I'd like to help and take things over, my injury-" Calcharo cuts you off with a kiss, "I know. Tell me what to do and I'll do it." His voice sounds husky and breathless, needy for more of you. You grab his hand and place it on your breast, making his breath hitch, "You can touch me."

He looks down at where his hand rests on your breast, taking in the way it fills his palm so perfectly, and he squeezes lightly. Truthfully, he wants your shirt off so he can feel the soft skin against his own calloused hands.

Calcharo's eyes go to yours and his fingers hover over the buttons of your shirt, "May I?" You chuckle a little at his formality, "Please do." With your affirmation, he unbuttons your shirt, tugging the material gently down your shoulders. He takes in the sight of you under him in just a bra and panties. You truly were a sight to see. Without asking for permission again, he fumbles with the clasp of your bra before eventually unhooking it and sliding it off.

Calcharo licks his lips again when he finally sees your bare breasts, so round and perfect. His hand makes its way back to your breasts, gently palming them. His thumb flicks over your nipple, making you draw in a breath. His gaze break away from your chest and back up to your face in alarm, "Did I hurt you?" You smile tiredly at him and shake your head, "No, it felt good." Calcharo visibly relaxes and returns his attention back to your chest.

Leaning down, he captures one of your nipples in his mouth, his tongue sliding over the pert bud as you let out a soft sounding moan. His eyes flit up to watch your reactions as he continues with his ministrations. All he wants is for you to feel good even if he's not entirely sure what he's doing. But from the look on your face, your lips parted and brows knitted together, he can tell he's doing well so far and that's all he needs to know to keep going.

Calcharo presses little kisses from your breasts, to your stomach, then pauses above your covered cunt. Without a word, you shakily raise your hips, signalling him to remove your panties and continue on. He bites his lip, nervous as hell, but he didn't know when he would get an opportunity like this again. So he slides your panties down, ever so careful to not have the material rub against your wound on it's way down your legs.

With you panties off and your pussy now exposed to him, Calcharo feels like he's in a daze. You raise your hips yet again with a raised brow, "Well? Haven't you done this before?" Calcharo looks away from you, not wanting to confirm nor deny, feeling too embarrassed to say you were his first everything.

Your sweet voice pulls him back in, "You're so unlike yourself right now. Where'd my confident leader go, huh?" You were only half teasing as you spoke, just wanting him to move on from your first quip.

Hearing you call him your leader stirs something inside of him. Calcharo feels like he has something to prove. You were right, he did everything with a cold confidence, so he could certainly do this. Calcharo lowers himself to your pussy, his lips so close to touching. With a quick look back up to you, he lightly licks at your clit. It's experimental at first, just small little licks to test out your reaction. But once he sees how turned on you are, he dives right in.

It's sloppy and wet, but Calcharo has no intention of stopping now. His tongue prods and licks at your entrance, lapping up your arousal as it coats his tongue. His cock twitches as he mindlessly grinds against the floor. Your beautiful moans and shaky breaths only spur him on and make him feel even more brave. His calloused thumb rubs at your clit in time with his tongue lashing between your folds.

Your hands fly to his hair, pressing his mouth further into your pussy as you cry out his name, "C-calcharo! 'm cumming-ngh!" The taste of you flooded his senses and he simply could not get enough. He grips your hips, keeping his mouth latched onto your soaked cunt as though it was his first and last meal he'd ever have, groaning as if he were the one on the receiving end. You try to push his face away, "S-stop! Too much-ngh!- 'm sensitive!"

Calcharo knew he should stop, but your moans and the way your arousal flowed from you was way too delicious. His tongue flicks over you clit once more, making your legs shake as you moan loudly, releasing on his tongue once more. Finally being merciful, Calcharo removes his mouth from your pussy, your juices and his own saliva glisten on his lips and chin, but he doesn't have a care in the world right in this moment.

Your breasts move in time with your heavy breathing and you narrow your eyes up at him, "You're so lucky I'm injured right now..." Calcharo's eyebrows furrow, cocking his head to the side slightly, "But you liked it." You can't keep your glare when he's looking at you like some confused puppy, although quite the scary looking puppy... You look down, spotting the wet patch on his pants, "Just take your pants off. It looks like your cock is ready to burst."

Calcharo's eyes widen at your straightforwardness, but he immediately schools his expression, "...Right." He undoes his belt harness, letting it drop to the floor with a soft clank of the metal. Next, he pops open the button of his pants and lowers the zipper, tugging his pants and briefs down just enough to free his cock. His cock springs forward, large and veiny, twitching and leaking profusely.

You're in awe of his size and if you had known he was packing that much down there, you would've intentionally tried to get yourself in this situation much sooner. With one hand, he holds his aching cock and covers his face with the other, "Why are you staring so intensely?" Seeing the state he's in makes you laugh. The sound of it makes his length twitch and he peeks at you through his fingers, sounding a bit annoyed, "What's so amusing to you?"

You give him a genuine, yet cheeky smile, "I just... Never thought I'd see such an intimidating guy like yourself get so flustered." Calcharo groans at your teasing remark and lowers his hand from his face, his other hand absentmindedly stroking his cock, "Enough of your teasing."

You spread your legs a little more, careful not to strain your injury, "By all means, please continue. I promise I won't tease you anymore." "Hmph...", Calcharo does his best to look displeased, but there's too much longing and desperation in his eyes for it to be even remotely convincing.

He lines his leaking tip up with your awaiting entrance, but pauses, "Just tell me if it's too much, alright?" With a nod from you, pressure begins to build as he pushes his length slowly inside of your tight, wet cunt.

Cacharo's face scrunches with pleasure and he sucks in a breath, the feeling of being inside of you, inside of anyone for the first time has him struggling not to cum right then and there. You wrap your arms around his neck, pulling him down to you, speaking softly, "It's okay. You can move now."

He whines at the affirmation and begins to thrust slowly, trying to keep himself calm so as to not cum immediately or hurt you from going too hard too fast. His muscular arms cage you in and his silver hair cascades over his shoulders.

His blue-grey eyes lock on yours as he keeps his steady pace. Calcharo's voice is strained when he speaks through gritted teeth, "This feels too good..." He groans as his hips make contact with yours, his cock pressing deep inside of you.

You press a kiss to the corner of his lips, whispering against them, "Then keep going." Calcharo's cock jumps inside of you and he starts thrusting a little faster, a little harder, "F-fuck..." He kisses you deeply, his tongue tangling with yours as his cock fucks into you. All you both can do is whimper and moan between relentless kisses as he comes closer and closer to orgasm.

His thoughts are only on how fucking good you tight pussy feels squeezing around his cock and how badly he wants to breed you with his cum. Gods, what he wouldn't do to see your stomach growing round with his kids.

Fuck, what the hell is even thinking right now. He can't even own a dog, let alone raise a kid, it was too dangerous. But your pussy and your hold on him was way more dangerous to him. He had to keep going.

Calcharo growls out a low groan, "I'm gonna cum -fuck- take it all. Please, please take it -ngh- all!" With a harsh, deep thrust, he releases his warm seed inside of you. His cock throbbing as his cum pours from his tip and the excess drips down to the floor.

He presses his sweaty forehead against yours, the heat from your fever seeping into his skin. Fuck, you had a fever and were injured... He pulls out of you, making you whimper at the feeling of emptiness.

His eyes flick over to your stitched wound, eyes wide as he sees some of the stitches had popped open and fresh blood was trickling down the side of your thigh, "I-I apologize. I shouldn't have-mmph!" Your lips on his shuts him up and when you pull away, you only smile tiredly at him, "I'm fine. Quit worrying about me." Calcharo's expression shows just how much he's struggling with all of this. The last thing he wanted to do was hurt you or make anything worse.

You tug a strand of his long, silver hair, bringing his attention back to you, "If you really feel that bad then I guess you'll have to make it up to me another time." Calcharo's eyebrows furrow, but then his expression softens slightly, "Of course. As your leader, I-" You cut him off quickly, "No, not so much as my leader. But as my partner. How does that sound?"

He's stunned for a moment but then clears his throat, trying to keep his typical brooding expression, "We can't. I don't want you to get hurt." You roll your eyes and look up at him, speaking in a resolute tone, "This is different. I'm not just some civilian, I'm part of the Ghost Hounds just like you. I can handle whatever danger comes my way or else I wouldn't be here right now." Calcharo processes your words for a second, then sighs, "Fine. But don't say I didn't warn you."

Your expression brightens, "I'm pretty sure that's similar to what you said to me when I first joined." Calcharo rolls his eyes as he gathers your clothes and his, "Whatever. I meant it as much then as I do now." You just breathe a small laugh, "Of course. I think we'll be just fine."

⌁ϟ༒︎ϟ⌁⌁ϟ༒︎ϟ⌁⌁ϟ༒︎ϟ⌁⌁ϟ

a/n: calcharo is a cutie patootie under that tough exterior, i just know it🥺

[demonic0angel]

Anger management is in deep trouble with the villain of the week. Jason is trying to recover from being thrown through a couple of walls and plan out his next step when Jazz calls for her brother. Danny comes running full eldritch form.

Jason grit his teeth and tried to think of what to do next. His head was spinning and his back was sending him flares of pain that reached into his brain, only increasing his headache. His eyes drifted to Wolf, who was similarly woozy and injured as she stood on shaky legs, trembling like a newborn fawn.

“W-Wolf…!” He grit his teeth. “Run! They— They want me so—”

“If you think I’m going to run and leave you here, you probably have brain damage,” was her scathing reply. Jason choked on a laugh, his bones literally feeling as though they were creaking in his skin.

She approached him and gently brushed gloved fingers under his exposed eye from his broken helmet. Jason closed his eyes for a moment and then reopened them. Her other hand was fumbling for her gun, and realizing that she couldn’t find it, having lost it in the previous fight, she cursed softly. Jason watched her with half lidded eyes, still trying to think of a plan.

A roar from their previous assailant, who was extremely close, echoed through the air with a terrifying timbre and interrupted his thoughts.

Jason’s eyes widened. “Wolf!” He hissed again. “Please, I mean it, just run! Go! If you can get away, maybe you can get reinforcements—”

“I’m not leaving!” She snapped. She hugged him protectively, pulling his broad body into her arms as gingerly and quickly as she could. “I have a plan. Can you trust me?”

Jason blinked again. Well, he’d done crazier things with people he trusted even less than her.

“Of course. I trust you with my life.”

He couldn’t see her face through her helmet, but she seemed happy, before she took in an audible inhale.

And then— “DANNYYYYYY!!!”

The air seemed to still after her shout and then the creature that had beaten them roared again and thundering footsteps ran in their direction. Jason swore heavily but didn’t move as Wolf hugged him, pressing his face against her chest. Just as he could feel the ground shake and the huffing breaths of the monster, there was a bright green portal opening up some distance away from them.

Jason’s mouth dropped in both bafflement and shock as a white blur ran out and then tackled the beast that didn’t even get a chance to growl before it was crushed to a pulp. There were green and white flashes, incomprehensible body parts, and maybe even tentacles, and a very loud, drawn out scream from the dying monster before there was silence again.

Then there was the sound of slurping and crunching sounds like bones being crunched by teeth.

Jason stared and listened with horror.

“W-What the fuck was that?!”

Wolf sighed and stroked his back soothingly. Jason had a brief thought to mourn the fact that they were both clothed and armored so he couldn’t feel her warm skin, before he was back to being horrified as she replied nonchalantly with a large amount of fondness, “That was my little brother.”

“… you’ve gotta be kidding.”

“No. He comes when we call. Oh! There he is now! Hey, Danny!”

Jason turned around slowly, only to meet bright glowing eyes like two green suns staring at him with a terrifying amount of irritation.

“G̴̡̧̼͎̗̰̰̬̔̾̈́̊̇̎ė̵͕͔̝̱̖̗͆̂̆͌̈́͘͜t̴͕͓͚͕̥͚̂̂͐̍̂̀͊ ̷̝̎a̸̢̩̫͖̘͙̝̪̒̑̊̇ẃ̷̼̩̭̰̰͓̠̦̏̽̈̚ḁ̸̡͓̦̗̍̀̎͘͘͜y̴̧̖̫̰̮͒̊͛͜͠ ̸̩̝̬̥͉͇̇f̶̺̑͛̿͊̋͘͠r̴̜̪̥̓ó̵̥͐̍͐̎̇̆m̷̡͈̳̥̰̙͒̊̑͌̄ ̴͔̾̂̓ṁ̵̩̏̇̚ý̴͇͊ ̴̡̟̺̭̋s̶̠̰̦̦͑́̅̈́̋̍͝͝i̴͍̫̻̰͛͌̃̑̈́̃̔͝s̷̨͎͚̈̿̈́́͊̃͝͠t̵̘͇̔͑̾́͐̎e̴͔̯͔̪̮̝̫͌͑̊̃̎r̴̢̥̭̥̱̚.̶͓̲̮͋͌͋͊̄͠”

(Note: that last part is Danny saying “Get away from my sister.”)

[brunchable]

Winter Prince, Part One: I Was Enchated To Meet You

Pairings: Prince, Soon to be King AU Bucky Barnes x Out of place, Princess Reader Words: 4.5K Themes: Regency Period AU, Instant attraction, Arranged Marriage, Eventual Smut. Summary: Trapped in the palace gardens, Y/N’s escape attempt is interrupted by a mysterious charming man who offers to help. Little does she know, the man she’s avoiding is the one lifting her over the wall. A/N: You're damn right I took inspiration to Queen Charlotte. Let's call this a "retelling" Bucky will still have his metal arm in this to keep it interesting.

The sound of hooves echoed in the distance, the rhythmic gallop of a horse cutting through the stillness of the early morning. You clutched your dress tighter around you, the fabric tangled in your fingers as you stood before the towering stone wall, your heart pounding. You were almost free—almost—but the moment stretched painfully, as if the world itself held its breath with you.

You glanced over your shoulder, the imposing silhouette of the palace barely visible through the mist. It loomed behind you, a symbol of everything you were bound to—everything you were trying to escape.

Your breath hitched as the soft thudding of hooves grew louder, and you turned back to the wall. Climbing it had seemed easy in the few moments of adrenaline-fueled desperation, but now, standing before it, you realized how futile it was. You couldn’t do it. You couldn’t scale the stone, couldn’t flee the life that had been thrust upon you.

The horse slowed, and you heard someone dismount, the creak of leather and the solid thud of boots hitting the ground. Your fingers trembled as you placed them against the wall, ready to make one final, frantic attempt. But before you could take another step, his voice cut through the mist.

“Running away?”

You froze, heat rushing to your cheeks. His tone wasn’t harsh, nor was it amused—just… curious, and that only annoyed you more. 

Slowly, you turned toward the voice, expecting to see one of the palace guards ready to drag you back inside. Instead, a man stood before you, taller than you had imagined, with dark hair tousled by the wind, his sharp features softened by the morning light. He was dressed in simple riding attire, a cloak draped over his broad shoulders, but there was an elegance about him. Certainly not a guard, then?

“Are you going to stop me?” you asked, your voice breathless, daring as your fingers tightened against the stone. Your heartbeat thundered in your ears.

He chuckled softly, and the sound sent a strange warmth curling through you. “I don’t know,” he mused, a playful glint in his eyes as he stepped closer, “Should I? You seem to be doing a fine job of stopping yourself.”

Your mouth parted in disbelief, heat rising to your face again. “Excuse me?”

He nodded at the wall. “Well, you don’t exactly look like you’re about to make it over, do you?”

You scowled, crossing your arms over your chest. “I didn’t ask for your commentary.”

The man raised a brow, his lips twitching into a smile. “I’m just saying, climbing walls isn’t for everyone. Especially not someone in a gown.”

“I wasn’t aware I needed your approval to escape,” you shot back, glancing at the wall again and then back at him, frustration bubbling inside you. “Why don’t you just go about your business and let me fail in peace?”

His grin widened, and he crossed his arms, his posture too relaxed for someone who’d just found a would-be escapee. 

“I could help you.”

You blinked at him, caught off guard by the offer. “Help me?” you echoed, suspicion lacing your words. “Why would you help me?”

“Maybe I like seeing people succeed at impossible things,” he teased, the smirk never leaving his face. “Or maybe I’m just curious to see how far you’ll get.”

You narrowed your eyes at him, crossing your arms tighter. “I don’t trust you.”

“Smart,” he said with a laugh. “But if you want to get over that wall, you’re going to need more than distrust.”

You looked up at the towering stones again, dread gnawing at you. He was right, as irritating as that was. But still…

“And what do you get out of this, then?” you asked, glancing at him warily.

He leaned casually against the wall, watching you intently. “A conversation,” he said, his voice suddenly softer, less teasing. “Tell me why you’re running.”

You scowled at him, the heat rising in your cheeks again, and turned your gaze back to the wall. Frustration bubbled inside you, and you began pacing, sizing up the towering stones as if staring at them hard enough would magically make them easier to climb.

“I don’t need your help,” you muttered under your breath, though you weren’t sure if you were talking to him or the wall at this point. 

You glanced back up at the impossible height of the stone barrier, chewing on your lip as you tried to mentally map out some kind of strategy—any way to make it work. You huffed, planting your hands on your hips, and shifted from foot to foot, casting the man a glare every now and then. He just stood there, arms crossed, watching you with an amused expression, as if you were the most entertaining thing he’d seen in a long time.

After a few moments of pacing and staring—then pacing some more—you let out an exasperated sigh and kicked a small stone out of your path, turning back to face him, arms crossed.

“Well?” you asked, your voice a little more breathless than you’d have liked. “What’s so funny?”

He shook his head, but the grin he was trying to hide betrayed him. 

“Nothing,” he said, the words dripping with humor. “Just… you look like you’re trying to intimidate the wall into letting you pass.”

You glared at him, heat flooding your cheeks. “Maybe I am. Maybe it’ll work.”

His chuckle turned into full-blown laughter, and the sound of it—rich and genuine—sent a strange warmth curling through you, despite your annoyance. He had that kind of laugh that you hated admitting was contagious, and you found your lips twitching upward before you could stop yourself.

“I’m serious!” you huffed, though the playful tone was creeping into your own voice.

He rubbed a hand over his jaw, still chuckling softly as he shook his head. “You’re something else, you know that?”

You narrowed your eyes at him, a mix of frustration and embarrassment bubbling up inside you, but you couldn’t help the flutter in your chest at the way he looked at you.

“Are you just going to laugh at me the whole time, or are you actually going to help?”

He raised his hands in surrender, his grin still firmly in place. “Alright, alright. I’ll help.” 

He took a step closer, the playfulness still in his eyes as he lowered his voice, leaning just a fraction nearer. “But only because I want to see how this goes.”

“Fine,” you muttered, stepping back toward the wall. “Just… don’t get in the way.”

Behind you, you could hear him chuckling softly to himself again, and though it made your frustration bubble over, there was something undeniably magnetic about the way he seemed to find you so… endearing.

And as you started pacing again, casting glances at the wall, trying to figure out just how on earth you’d manage to get over it, you caught him out of the corner of your eye—his gaze still fixed on you, the smile never leaving his face.

You huffed to yourself, kicking at another stone. Of course, the man who found you trying to escape was now laughing at you, and somehow, it didn’t feel as awful as it should.

“How long will you keep pacing around like that?” 

“I’m not pacing,” you grumbled, though you absolutely were.

“Oh, you are,” he countered with a grin. “You’re doing laps. Like maybe if you circle it enough, the wall will shrink. Or get tired of you and let you through.”

Your jaw tightened as heat rose to your cheeks. “I’m sizing it up,” you snapped, planting your hands on your hips as you glanced back at the wall, your frustration bubbling over.

He wasn’t even trying to hide how much he was enjoying this, and it only made your chest tighten with frustration. Why did he have to look so effortlessly amused by your struggle?

“Well?” you demanded, trying to maintain some semblance of authority in the situation. “You know you’re actually not helping?”

“Forgive me, but watching you intimidate the wall might be the most entertaining thing I’ve seen all week.”

You let out an exasperated huff, resisting the urge to stomp your foot in frustration. “I wasn’t intimidating it, I was—”

He cut you off with a light chuckle, waving his hand dismissively. “Sizing it up. Right.”

You were too stunned to respond. The man was infuriating, no question about it, but the warmth in his voice, the look in his eyes—there was something about him that softened the edges of your frustration, made it feel less like a confrontation and more like… banter.

You shook your head, forcing yourself to focus. No, this was not the time to get distracted by some smug, arrogant man who was finding far too much joy in your struggle. You turned back to the wall, determination flaring inside you.

“If you’re going to help, do it already,” you muttered, planting your hands on your hips again.

“Let’s see how far you can get with a little help.” he said, his voice low and teasing.

He stopped in front of you, eyes gleaming with amusement as he glanced at the towering wall. “You ready?”

You crossed your arms, lifting an eyebrow at him. “Do I have a choice?”

He smirked, leaning down slightly. “Not if you want to get over that wall today.”

You eyed him warily, but there was something in his smile, something disarmingly warm beneath all that arrogance. Before you could talk yourself out of it, you sighed and placed your hand in his.

His grip was firm, strong, and you felt the warmth of his palm seep into your skin as he stepped even closer. The flutter in your chest deepened, but you swallowed it down, ignoring the strange thrill of having him so near.

“Alright,” he said, crouching slightly and motioning toward his shoulders, “Put your foot here, and I’ll lift you up.”

You blinked at him, a sudden rush of heat flooding your face. Wait, what?

“I’m going to boost you over,” he explained, clearly amused at your hesitation. “Unless you’d rather keep pacing around?”

You huffed, your cheeks burning. 

“Fine,” you muttered, carefully lifting your foot toward his shoulder. “But—” You paused, biting your lip as another wave of heat rushed through you. “Don’t look up.”

His grin widened, but he managed to keep his voice steady. “I wouldn’t dream of it.”

You gave him a skeptical look, your heart thudding loudly in your ears as you gingerly placed your foot on his shoulder. 

“Don’t look up,” you reminded him, your voice sharper, but the flush in your cheeks was impossible to ignore.

“I heard you the first time,” he chuckled softly, keeping his gaze firmly straight ahead.

He hoisted you up easily, his hands firm at your waist, but as soon as you tried to gain some leverage, the fabric of your gown bunched awkwardly around your legs, trapping you mid-air. Your heart pounded as you wobbled, your foot slipping slightly, and for a moment you flailed, trying to catch your balance. The wall still seemed impossibly high, and every move made your gown twist tighter around you, making it harder to gain any footing.

“Careful,” He grunted, steadying you with his grip. “Got it?”

You didn’t. Not at all.

“This is ridiculous,” you muttered, your voice strained with effort as you tried to move again. The fabric pulled tighter around your legs, making it impossible to lift yourself further. “This dress—how do women escape anything in these things?”

He laughed, and you could feel the vibrations of it under your hands. 

“You’re doing great,” he teased, clearly biting back more laughter. “But if you keep kicking like that, I might not be able to hold you much longer.”

You shot him a glare over your shoulder, heat flooding your face. “This isn’t funny!”

“Oh, it’s very funny from down here,” he said, still chuckling, though his grip on your waist stayed steady.

Another attempt to maneuver only resulted in more tangled fabric. You groaned, realizing that this wasn’t going to work. No matter how hard you tried, the dress wouldn’t let you lift your legs high enough to get over the wall.

“Alright, alright,” you sighed, feeling thoroughly embarrassed as you gave up. “Put me down.”

“You sure? You were making great progress,” he teased, but his hands were already lowering you back down to the ground, the warmth of his touch lingering even as your feet found solid ground again.

As soon as you stood, you stepped back, brushing dirt from your gown and trying to ignore the way your heart still raced, both from the failed climb and from how close he had been.

“Well,” you muttered, more to yourself than to him, “that was a disaster.”

He leaned back on his heels, his grin wide and playful. “Not a total disaster. I got a front-row seat to the best entertainment in town.”

You crossed your arms over your chest, glaring at him, though the blush creeping up your neck betrayed how flustered you were. 

“You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?”

He chuckled again, crossing his arms to mirror you. “Can’t say it’s not entertaining.”

You sighed and looked around, now you owed him an explanation as to why you’re trying to run away.

“I don’t want to marry a stranger,” you whispered, surprising even yourself with the truth. “I don’t want to be locked away in that palace for the rest of my life, tied to someone I’ve never met.”

He didn’t speak for a second, his expression softening as he studied you. Then, in a gentle tone, he asked, “And who is this stranger you’re so desperate to avoid?”

You sighed, casting a quick glance around as if the mist might swallow you whole. 

“Prince James,” you admitted quietly, your words barely louder than the mist. “I’ve never seen him, never even heard his voice. I don’t know if he’s kind or cruel, if he’s young or old. For all I know, he could be—”

“Hideous?” the man supplied, a glimmer of amusement flickering in his eyes again.

You gave a small, reluctant smile despite yourself. “Or snotty. Cold. Aloof. Traits that I most certainly cannot stand nor find attractive.”

The man chuckled softly, shaking his head as he took a step closer. “Snotty, huh?”

“Well, royalty,” you said, with a little shrug. “They tend to be.”

He studied you again, something like amusement flickering across his face, but there was no mockery in it, just something warm and knowing. 

“You could say I’ve met him a time or two.”

Your brows furrowed at his familiarity with the prince. “Then what’s he like?” you asked, searching his expression for any hint of truth. “Is he… good?”

He seemed to consider your question, his gaze turning thoughtful as though weighing each word. “He’s... complicated,” he finally said, his voice softer, almost wistful. “Not the man people expect him to be.”

You frowned and sarcastically you said, “That’s really comforting.”

But before he could answer, a loud shout echoed from the palace grounds, and you both turned, startled. Your stomach lurched in panic.

“I need to go,” you whispered frantically, your pulse racing as you prepared to bolt.

His hand caught yours before you could move, the warmth of his skin against yours sending a jolt of something startling through you. You looked up at him, breathless.

“I could still help you,” he murmured, his thumb brushing the back of your hand. His eyes held yours, deep and unreadable, as though he were making a decision only he could understand.

But there was something in his gaze now, something almost… regretful. 

“Speak what you need to say.” you whispered, the realization dawning on you in slow, staggering pieces.

He didn’t answer immediately, his eyes searching yours like he could read the thoughts swirling in your head. He let out a soft sigh and tilted his head, a playful sparkle returning to his eyes.

“What if…” he began, his voice low, “what if the prince isn’t some distant, unfeeling man? What if he’s just a person who hates the cage he’s been placed in as much as you do?”

You blinked, confusion tightening your chest. “What are you talking about?”

He took a step closer, his thumb still grazing the back of your hand, sending that maddening warmth through you. “What if Prince James isn’t the man people whisper about? What if he’s spent his whole life wondering if anyone would see him instead of the title?”

Your breath caught in your throat. The weight of his words settled like stones in your chest, and you stared at him, trying to make sense of what he was saying. “Why would he care? He’s a prince—soon to be King. He’s powerful, he has everything.”

He gave a small, almost sad smile. “What if the power isn’t worth much if it means living a life filled with expectations instead of choices?”

You frowned, shaking your head. “But he could change things if he wanted to.”

James—because you were sure of it now, he wasn’t just some rider—tilted his head, amusement playing at the corners of his mouth. “What if it’s not that simple? What if the weight of the crown is heavier than it looks?”

Your heart raced as the pieces slowly started to click together. He was still toying with you, but now there was a seriousness beneath it, something deeper. You could see the flicker of emotion behind his blue eyes, like he was daring you to understand.

“What if…” he continued, leaning in slightly, his voice dropping to a whisper, “the prince is standing right in front of you, hoping you’ll see him?”

The world tilted beneath you. The way he spoke, the familiarity in his tone, the way he carried himself… it all made sense now. And suddenly, the puzzle that had been scattered before you came together in a startling rush of clarity.

“You’re—” The words stuck in your throat as your heart pounded harder, realization hitting you with full force. “You’re Prince James.”

He smiled, a mixture of apology and relief in his expression. “I suppose I am.”

Your mind reeled, his confession crashing over you cold bucket of water. Prince James. The man you had been speaking to, was the very one you were trying to escape. The very one you had feared. Your heart pounded, your pulse a frantic beat in your ears as you looked up at him—really looked at him—for the first time.

Prince James.

"Hello, Y/N." He smiled earnestly, taking your breath away.

You took a step back, your breath hitching in your throat as your gaze swept over him. The dark hair tousled by the morning breeze, the sharp features softened by the mist, the broad shoulders, the casual strength in the way he stood. How had you not realized before? How had you missed it?

Your mouth opened, but no words came. You were speechless. Absolutely, utterly speechless.

His lips twitched in that same infuriating, knowing half-smile, the one that had seemed so harmless before but now felt charged with meaning. 

“I suppose I’m not what you were expecting,” he murmured, his voice low, almost apologetic.

You shook your head, still trying to find your voice, but it was like the words had fled, leaving only the rush of your thoughts, jumbled wildly together. He’s the prince. The one you had dreaded. The one you had tried so hard to avoid.

But he wasn’t at all what you imagined. He wasn’t cold, or distant, or cruel. He was standing here, watching you, his expression open, almost vulnerable, as if he was waiting for your reaction, for you to decide what came next.

Your eyes darted over him again, taking in every detail as if seeing him for the first time—the way his cloak clung to his broad frame, the way his eyes, intense and unwavering, seemed to burn through every wall you'd built around yourself.

And then the shouts echoed again, louder this time, and your stomach clenched with a fresh wave of panic. The palace. The guards. They were looking for you.

His gaze flickered toward the sound, the slightest crease forming between his brows before his eyes were back on you, sharp and unrelenting.

“You need to go,” he said, voice low but urgent. Like the moment itself was slipping away.

“I—” You swallowed hard, your words tangled with the storm raging inside you. You—him—everything felt too much, too fast.

He stepped closer, his hand lifting as if to touch you—like he had to—like he needed to—but stopped just short, his fingers lingering in the air, his breath mingling with yours. 

“I felt the same,” he said, his words rushing out, fierce, quiet. “Curious about you. Wondering if you were like the rest of them, if you were cold, detached. Wondering if you were trapped like me.”

You blinked, caught off guard, your pulse roaring in your ears. What?

“I was afraid,” he continued, his eyes searing into yours. “Afraid you were someone I wouldn’t want to know. Someone I couldn’t stand to look at. I was afraid of you.”

His words hit you like a thunderclap, stealing your breath, your heart stumbling in your chest.

“But gods,” he breathed, his voice dropping to a whisper, “I was wrong.”

You stared at him, utterly speechless, the air thick between you. Your heart was pounding so hard you were sure he could hear it.

He took another step closer, his eyes wild, full of something unnameable. “You’re everything I didn’t dare to hope for. You’re bold, you’re brave, and you’re—” His voice broke off, and you watched as his gaze dropped to your lips, then snapped back to your eyes, something fierce and desperate flickering there.

You couldn’t breathe. You couldn’t think. His words slammed into you, your mind reeling, your heart racing as his admission hung between you, fragile and powerful all at once.

The shouts echoed again, and your body jolted with the reminder of reality crashing back in.

“I need to go,” you whispered, your voice trembling as the world swirled around you.

But before you could move, his hand finally touched yours—fingers brushing against yours, sending a spark through your skin that made you freeze.

“I was wrong about you,” he murmured, his gaze locking with yours, eyes blazing with a heat that made you want to lean into him, to forget the world. “So wrong.”

You swallowed, every nerve in your body alive, humming. His hand slid up, cradling your wrist, his thumb brushing the delicate skin, like he couldn’t stop touching you. 

“Go,” he whispered, his voice barely more than a breath. “Go before I make you stay.”

Your feet refused to move, your heart slamming against your ribs. But you nodded, turning to slip back toward the palace, your body buzzing with his words, the intensity of his gaze.

But before you could disappear into the shadows, you heard him call out—his voice loud, clear, commanding.

You froze, crouching behind the tall hedge, heart hammering against your ribs as you peered through the mist. The guards had gathered around him now, their faces tense with focus as James, with that steady authority in his voice, pointed them in the wrong direction.

“She went the other way—toward the east gate!” His voice was sure, a lie delivered with the ease of someone accustomed to being obeyed. And just like that, the guards nodded, falling in line with his instructions as they turned, their heavy footsteps fading in the opposite direction.

Your pulse thrummed in your ears as you watched them leave, your body still coiled with tension, waiting for something to go wrong. But James remained still, standing tall as the mist curled around him, his face calm, unreadable. And when the last of the guards disappeared into the distance, he did something that made your breath catch.

He glanced back over his shoulder—directly at where you were hiding.

His gaze found yours through the thick hedges, that same intense, burning look he had given you earlier, and for a brief moment, the world stood still. He didn’t move, didn’t say anything, but his eyes held yours with a weight that made it hard to breathe, the unspoken connection between you hanging in the air.

Then, with a slow nod—so subtle you almost missed it—he turned, walking away, his figure swallowed by the swirling mist.

You exhaled, finally letting out the breath you’d been holding. Your entire body was trembling, your mind reeling from everything that had just happened. He had protected you.

Prince James, had lied for you, bought you time, and now the palace loomed ahead, quiet, waiting. Your fingers tightened around the fabric of your gown as you stood up, pressing yourself against the stone wall, making your way back toward the safety of the palace.

You moved silently, your steps soft against the cobblestone as you slipped through the garden paths, every corner casting long shadows. You had to be careful. You couldn’t risk being caught now.

Reaching the palace doors, you hesitated for a moment, glancing back toward the mist-shrouded garden. James was gone now, but his presence lingered, the promise of his words still echoing in your mind.

With one last breath, you pulled open the door, slipping inside the familiar corridors of the palace, the warmth of its stone walls closing in around you. It was quiet here, the rest of the palace still asleep, unaware of the storm that had passed just outside its walls.

As you hurried back to your chambers, your heart finally began to slow, but your mind buzzed with everything that had just unfolded. James hadn’t just protected you; he had seen you—really seen you. And now, there was no denying it.

You weren’t running from him anymore.

You were walking straight back to him.

[formulakracing]

“so soon” — d.r.

pairing -> fem!reader x daniel ricciardo

word count -> {typed this on my phone… oopsies!}

warnings -> fluff, light cursing, mentions of loneliness, mentions of long distance, excessive pet names

a/n -> currently suffering because my favorite driver isn’t even a driver anymore. this is my coping mechanism.

“you look so silly right now.”

the corners of his lips twitch, curling into a quaint smile. dimples follow in suit, his eyes squinting ever so slightly. in the low light, you catch the sparkle twinkling in his eye as he pans the camera down, showcasing his full outfit.

“do i really?”

headphones rest on his ears, paired with a black embroidered beanie. a windbreaker spans across his chest, the hue matching the beanie. it’s a shade or two lighter, but it complements his curls. the neon yellow drawstrings are tied together tightly, to shield him from the elements.

he’s wearing shorts, ones you wish you could see in person, the hem hitting mid thigh. his tattoos poke out, only reminding you of what was underneath. what was for your eyes only.

he’s prepping for a run, setting you on the island in the kitchen as he performs a few stretches, carefully preparing his calves for what was to come.

a giggle bubbles up in your throat as you snuggle into your pillow, nodding along.

“yes, you look a tad bit ridiculous.”

his brow furrows, accept seeping through his words as he shakes his head.

“no way.”

“you actually look extremely sexy right now,” you exhale, feeling a frown form, “if only i was there with you.”

“we’d be hitting cardio right now if you were,” he shoots you a wink, chuckling as you roll your eyes, “c’mon my love, that was funny. admit it.”

“i guess,” you huff, pulling the pillow against your chest even closer, “i miss you.”

“i miss you more,” you watch as his shoulders slump slightly, “did you do anything fun today?”

“not really,” you mutter, feeling your throat tighten as he tilts his head, gaze fixated on you, “i just went to the store to get a some things. that’s it.”

the lust laced in his tone has now dissolved completely, the australian’s words barely a whisper.

“i know how hard this has been on you, and i’m sorry. i just want to make sure that you’re still getting out and—“

“you don’t have to be sorry,” you voice trembles as your vision blurs, “it just fucking sucks. that’s all.”

“not too much longer now, yeah?” plucking the phone from the table, he brings the camera to face-level, so that your eyes meet with his.

“only two more weeks until i get to hold you. only fourteen days until you get endless kisses. only about three hundred and thirty-six hours until i get to tell you i love you a million times.”

you start to speak, yet you’re cut off by the sound of rain as it patters against the window-pane. a singular tear rolls down your cheek, your attention focused on the streams that slither down the glass, the rumble of thunder sending a shiver down your spine. you can feel him watching you, taking in the way the candlelight bathes your features.

“look at that,” he murmurs, “it’s raining here too. a little reminder that we’re under the same sky. the same sun, moon, and stars. we’re not as far apart as you think, baby.”

“c-can you show me?” you sniffle, wiping away your tear.

“of course baby,” he dips his head, tapping on the screen.

the camera angle flips, adjusting momentarily. he has it angled towards his skylight, the dull roar of the rainstorm flooding your ears. there’s a coziness that seeps into your chest, embracing your heart as your lids droop.

“see?” he comes into the frame, flashing you a dazzling grin as he gestures upward, “we’re not as distant as you think, sweet girl. same rainstorm. just a few states apart.”

situating your phone against your spare pillow, you burrow underneath your comforter, soaking in the warmth, “i love you.”

“and i love you,” he coos, “do you want me to stay on while i run?”

“yes please,” the words are a little slurred, exhaustion taking a hold, “this damn storm is making me sleepy.”

“good,” he chirps, “my pretty girl needs her beauty rest.”

“and my pretty boy needs to be here with me.”

“so soon pretty baby,” his voice is soothing, only encouraging you further and further into slumber, “so soon we’ll be underneath the covers, watching our favorite movie. we’ll be skin on skin, all comfy and cozied up. i’ll be showering you with endless kisses, and all of my love.”

“i can’t wait,” you mumble, lashes fluttering as the door to his apartment creaks, “be safe on your run, danny.”

“of course,” heat flourishes into his cheeks as he glances down at his phone, relishing the sight before him.

you’re buried underneath your comforter, half of your face shielded by swath of fabric. luckily, you blew your candle out, so he didn’t have to fret over that. he was more concerned with the fact that he was not there to hold you, to comfort you.

as he adjusts his headphones, he clicks his volume up, the sound of your breathing coming in through the ear pieces. sure, he could be listening to music. he could turn on a podcast, or find a youtube video so that he could reminisce on the days of the past. weekends spent on the track, dreaming of the taste of victory.

but nothing compared to the sound of you.

you could be doing anything, and he would listen, soaking in every second.

and fuck, how could he ignore how beautiful you were? so at peace. so content as you dozed off. if only he was there to brush the strands from your forehead, to ensure that you wouldn’t be disturbed from your slumber.

he hoped that he wormed his way into your dreams, just so that you knew there wasn’t a minute that passed by where he wasn’t thinking of you.

as his feet hit the slick pavement, the cool air flooding his lungs, he tucks his phone into the pocket of his windbreaker. there was no way he was going to let you get all soaked in rain. especially while you were sleeping. that just wouldn’t be fair.

sure, it was a little childish. a little trivial.

but as long as you were happy, it didn’t matter.

and as his pace quickens, he can’t help but let his mind wander.

of course, it only wandered to you.

oh, how he was ready to see you. his heart ached the thought. he yearned to touch you. to kiss you. to wrap you up in his embrace.

he could though, oh so soon.

he was anticipating that moment. the moment where he would get to sweep you up off your feet, lost in your own little word.

he would get to soon enough.

oh, so soon.

[lunaticgf]

sevika x fem reader

Forced Attraction.

Tags : Captor!Sevika x Captive!Reader , kidnapping , dubious consent , very dubious , stalking , mindbreak , Dom!sevika , victim!reader , sevika is a creep , psycho even , reader is a freak tho , pain slut even , dark fic , violence , threats , Stockholm syndrome , manipulation , fingering.

Summary : You don’t remember how you ended up here.

Note : yeaaaah. I needed to write this one for my soul. In my defence… yeah I got nothing LOL. Enjoy degens. This is probs very ooc but ic if you squint hard enough.

Sevika followed you from a safe distance, making sure to stay hidden. Her keen eyes observed your every move. She observed the way you talked to others, the way you smiled, the way you walked. She memorized every little detail, committing it to memory so she could replay it in her mind later.

Sevika watched you with a mixture of fascination and obsession, her gaze never leaving your figure. She stalked you every day, always watching and waiting for the right moment to make her move.

The cold night air stung your face as you walked home from a late night shift, the dimly lit streets feeling eerie despite the city bustling with life. You couldn't shake off the feeling that eyes were on you, following your every move. As you quickened your pace, feeling increasingly uneasy, the sound of footsteps echoed behind you. You turned around, but there was no one there. Shrugging it off, you continued your walk, telling yourself you were being paranoid. However, the sense of being watched persisted, and you couldn't shake off the feeling that someone was actually there. As you walked, you started to notice small things out of place, a shadow darting behind a building, a sound of footsteps trailing just a few steps behind you. The feeling of being followed increased, making your pulse race. You could sense someone's presence, but whenever you turned around, there was no one there.

Fear gripped your heart as you quickened your steps, desperate to home and away from the unseen pursuer. You glanced over your shoulder once more, and this time you saw a figure disappearing around a corner. This only confirmed your suspicions. Panicked, you picked up the pace, jogging now towards your house, the fear of the unknown presence behind you outweighing the fatigue. Every step you took felt like an eternity, your heartbeat thundering in your ears as adrenaline coursed through your veins. You desperately longed for the safety and comfort of your home, away from the stalking figure lurking in the shadows.

As Sevika watched you run, excitement and anticipation coursing through her veins. She could almost feel your fear, smell it wafting through the air. She couldn't let you escape, not when she'd spent so long observing and planning. And that’s why she had a plan.

You spot Sevika in the distance ahead, a wave of relief washed over you. Her familiar face was like a beacon of safety in the darkness, and your tense shoulders softened as you jogged towards her.

"Sevika!" you called out, your breaths coming out in ragged gasps. "Thank goodness, I thought... I thought someone was following me."

Sevika feigned concern, her expression masking the fact that she was the one who had been following you. She stepped closer, her eyes scanning your face, taking in your disheveled appearance.

"Why would someone be following you?" she asked, her voice gruff but gentle. "Are you alright?" Hiding the excitement that was building up in her. She's enjoying this, the power she has over you, the trust you place in her.

"You know, I've been worried about you. You've been so distant lately, and I couldn't help but wonder what was going on in that pretty little head of yours."

Sevika's grip tightens on your shoulder as she pulls her in closer, her breath hot against her ear. Your heart races, a mix of relief and something else she can't quite place. Sevika's words are laced with concern, but there's an undercurrent of something darker, something predatory.

"You've been through so much, haven't you? All alone, trying to navigate these treacherous streets. It must be so hard, not knowing who to trust." You felt a strange mixture of relief and unease at Sevika's words. They were comforting, yet there was something in her tone that sent a shiver down your spine. You couldn't deny that she made you feel safe, but her possessive nature was beginning to worry you.

"You trust me, don't you? You know I would never let anything happen to you." Her thumb brushes against your cheek, and she sees the way your eyes flutter closed, a soft sigh escaping your lips. "That's right, you can rely on me. Always."

As your eyes flutter closed, Sevika takes advantage of the moment. She slips a small vial from her pocket, the contents within glinting in the dim light. She uncorks it swiftly, the faint scent of bitter almonds filling the air.

"W-wait, what is that?" you asked, a sense of alarm rising in your chest. "I don't-"

But your protest was cut short as Sevika's hand pressed more firmly against your lips, the cold glass of the vial resting on your chin. Her gaze held yours, an unspoken command in her eyes that brooked no argument. "It'll make everything easier, trust me," Sevika coos, her free hand stroking your hair softly. You comply, lips parting to accept the liquid. Sevika watches as she swallows, your eyes still closed, completely unaware of the betrayal unfolding.

The bitter liquid slid down your throat, leaving a strange, almost metallic taste behind. A rush of dizziness washed over you, vertigo stealing your sense of balance and making you swoon. Sevika caught you, her strong arms encircling your waist, pulling you against her body as you stumbled. As the drug begins to take hold, Sevika's eyes gleam with a twisted satisfaction. She leans in, her breath hot against your ear as she whispers, "That's my good girl." Those words send a shiver down your spine, but your body is too weak to react.

Sevika's hands roam over your body, her touch lingering in places it shouldn't. She traces the line of your jaw, her thumb brushing against your lips. Her fingers slide down your neck, her grip tightening slightly as she feels your pulse fluttering beneath her touch.

"You're so beautiful when you're like this," she murmurs, her voice taking on a dark, hungry edge. "So helpless, so vulnerable."

Her hands move lower, her fingers tracing the curves of your body. She leans in, her lips brushing against your neck, her tongue darting out to taste your skin. You let out a soft moan, your body responding despite your mind screaming in protest.

"You like that, don't you?" Sevika growls, her breath hot against your neck. "You like it when I touch you like this."

Her hands move to your thighs, her fingers digging into your flesh as she spreads your legs further apart. She leans in, her lips finding yours in a harsh, demanding kiss. You can taste the bitterness of the drug on her tongue, the metallic tang of her lipstick. But you're powerless to stop her, your body betraying you as it responds to her touch.

"Mine," Sevika hisses, her eyes locked onto yours. "You belong to me now."

Sevika's grip on your thighs tightens, her nails digging into your flesh hard enough to leave marks. She pulls away from the kiss, her lips curling into a wicked grin as she sees the haze of confusion in your eyes.

"What's wrong, love? Don't tell me you're already missing me." Her voice drips with mock concern, her fingers trailing up your body, leaving a trail of goosebumps in their wake. "I'm right here, after all."

She leans in, her lips brushing against your ear as she whispers, "And I'm going to be with you every step of the way, from now until forever."

Her hands move to your wrists, her grip firm as she pins your arms above your head. She leans back, her eyes raking over your body, drinking in every curve and every inch of exposed skin.

"You're mine now," she growls, her voice low and possessive. "And I'm going to take what belongs to me."

She leans in, her lips finding yours in another bruising kiss. Her tongue pushes past your lips, claiming your mouth, your breath, your very essence. She swallows your moans, your whimpers, your pleas for mercy. She consumes you, body and soul, until there's nothing left but her.

"Say it," she demands, her lips hovering just inches from yours. "Say you're mine."

She waits, her eyes boring into yours, her grip on your wrists tightening. She won't let you go until you give in, until you submit to her will. And you know, deep down, that you will. That you'll say anything, do anything, to make the pain stop, to make the hunger in her eyes fade away.

"Say it," she growls again, her voice a low, dangerous purr. "Say you're mine, and I'll make it all better. I'll make you forget about everything except me."

She leans in, her lips brushing against your ear. "All you have to do is say the words.”

Your lips part slightly, a soft whimper escaping as Sevika's grip on your wrists tightens further. You can feel the pain radiating up your arms, but it's nothing compared to the dread and fear that consume you. Her eyes bore into yours, their intensity unyielding, demanding.

"Please..." you whisper, your voice barely audible. The drug has left you feeling groggy and disoriented, your body responding in ways that seem foreign and uncontrollable.

"Please what?" Sevika taunts, her lips curling into a cruel smile. "Please make it stop? Please take you away from this place? Please...what?"

She leans in, her breath hot against your cheek. You can feel the heat radiating off her body, her scent enveloping you—a mixture of sweat, leather, and something darker, more primal.

"You know what I want to hear," she murmurs, her voice a low growl. "Say it, and I'll make everything better. I'll make the pain go away. I'll take care of you like no one else ever has."

Your heart pounds in your chest, your breath coming in shallow gasps. You can feel the tears welling up in your eyes, a desperate plea for mercy.

"I...I'm yours," you manage to choke out, the words tasting bitter on your tongue. It's a surrender, a capitulation to her dark desires. And as the words leave your lips, you see a wicked gleam in Sevika's eyes, a triumphant smile spreading across her face.

"Good girl," she purrs, her grip on your wrists finally loosening. She leans in, her lips finding yours in a soft, almost tender kiss. But the tenderness is fleeting, replaced once again by a hungry, possessive desire.

"Now, let's get you somewhere safe," she whispers, her voice laced with a dark promise. "Somewhere where no one can ever hurt you again."

She helps you to your feet, her arm wrapped tightly around your waist as she guides you out of your old home. The world outside is a blur. Sevika keeps a firm grip on your waist, her stride quick and purposeful as she leads you through the winding alleys and shadowed streets of Zaun.

"Where...where are we going?" you manage to ask, your voice barely above a whisper. Your legs feel like lead, each step an effort as you struggle to keep up with Sevika's relentless pace. She doesn't answer, her expression hard and unreadable as she focuses on navigating the treacherous path ahead. The streets are filled with the usual sights and sounds of the undercity—shouts and laughter from nearby taverns, the distant hum of chem-works, the occasional scuttle of a chem-rat—but they all seem muted, distant, as if seen through a thick fog.

Eventually, Sevika slows her pace, guiding you towards a nondescript door set into the side of an old, crumbling building. She knocks a quick, rhythmic pattern, and the door creaks open, revealing a dimly lit staircase leading down into darkness. "Home sweet home," she murmurs, her voice echoing in the narrow space. She ushers you inside, her hand on your back pushing you forward. "Welcome to my little sanctuary."

You descend the stairs, your heart pounding in your chest as the door slams shut behind you. The air is damp and musty, the scent of mildew and chemicals filling your nostrils. Sevika leads you through a labyrinth of tunnels and corridors, the walls lined with makeshift beds, crude workstations, and stacks of crates and supplies.

"What is this place?" you ask, your voice barely above a whisper. The drug is wearing off, the edges of reality beginning to sharpen once more. Sevika turns to face you, her eyes gleaming in the faint light cast by the flickering chem-lanterns. She reaches out, her hand cupping your cheek, her thumb brushing softly against your skin.

"This is where I bring my special gifts. And you, my dear, are my most prized possession." Her hand trails down your cheek, her fingers intertwining with yours. She pulls you deeper into the heart of the underground complex, the sound of your footsteps echoing through the narrow tunnels.

Finally, she stops in front of a heavy metal door, the kind of door that's meant to keep secrets locked away. She withdraws a key from her pocket, the metal glinting in the dim light as she unlocks the door and pushes it open. Inside, the room is bathed in a soft, eerie glow. The walls are adorned with photographs—photographs of you. Snapshots captured in various moments throughout your life, some taken without your knowledge, others seemingly staged to capture specific emotions. You gasp, your eyes widening as you take in the sight. There you are, laughing with friends at a café, lost in thought as you walk along the riverbank, asleep in your bed, completely unaware of the camera trained on you. There are dozens of them, each one a window into a different moment of your life.

Sevika stands behind you, her breath hot on your neck as she whispers, "Isn't it beautiful? A chronicle of your life, all laid out for me to admire."

You turn to face her, horror etched on your features. "How? How did you...?"

A cruel smile plays on her lips. "I have my ways. I've been watching you for a long time, my dear. Long before you ever knew I existed."She steps closer, her eyes never leaving yours. "You're mine now. Every moment, every memory, every breath...it all belongs to me."

Her hands reach up, cupping your face, her thumbs brushing away the tears that have begun to stream down your cheeks. "Don't cry, my love. This is just the beginning. We have so much time together, so many memories yet to make."

Her hands remain cupped around your face, her thumbs tracing the line of your tears, her fingers tangled in your hair.

"You're so beautiful when you cry," she whispers, her voice a low, husky purr. "So vulnerable, so weak."

Her grip on your hair tightens, her fingers digging into your scalp as she tilts your head back, forcing you to look up at her. Her eyes are wild, hungry, the predator within her unleashed.

"But I don't want you to be weak, my dear. I want you to fight. I want you to scream." Her lips curl into a cruel smile as she leans in closer, her breath hot against your skin.

She leans in, her teeth grazing your earlobe, sending a shiver down your spine. Her voice drops to a low growl as she whispers, "Scream for me, my love. Show me how much you want this."

Before you can respond, her hand moves from your hair to your throat, her fingers wrapping around your neck. She squeezes gently, just enough to make you gasp, to remind you of the power she holds over you.Her other hand moves down your body, her touch rough and demanding as she grabs your breast, squeezing it hard enough to make you wince. You let out a soft cry of pain, and Sevika smiles, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction.

*"There it is," she purrs, her voice laced with dark pleasure. "That's what I want to hear."

She tightens her grip on your throat, her fingers digging into your flesh as she leans in, her lips brushing against your ear. "Scream for me, my love. Scream until your voice is raw." Her hand on your breast twists, pinching your nipple hard enough to make you cry out again. The pain is intense, overwhelming, and you can't help but let out another scream, your body bucking against hers.

Sevika laughs, a low, dark sound that sends a chill down your spine. "That's it, my dear. Let it all out. Let me hear your pain, your fear, your desire."

Her hand moves from your breast to your stomach, her fingers digging into your flesh as she pushes you backwards, towards the wall. She pins you against it, her body pressing against yours, her hand still wrapped around your throat.

*"Say it," she demands, her voice a low growl. "Say you're mine. Say you belong to me."

Your body presses against the cold, unyielding wall, trapped beneath Sevika's overwhelming presence. The pain and fear coursing through you mingle with a dark, perverse desire—a craving for more, for her to push you further, to break you completely. Sevika's eyes narrow, a wicked gleam dancing in their depths as she senses your silent plea. She leans in, her lips brushing against your ear as she whispers, "You like this, don't you? You like the pain, the fear, the control."

Her hand tightens around your throat, cutting off your air supply for a moment before releasing, allowing you to gasp for breath.

"Say it," she growls, her voice a low, dangerous purr. "Tell me you want this. Tell me you need this."

You swallow hard, the words catching in your throat, but you manage to choke them out, a desperate plea in your voice. "Yes... I-I want this.. I need this.. I need you, Sevika."

A wicked smile tugs at the corners of Sevika's mouth. She leans in, her lips finding yours in a brutal, punishing kiss. Her tongue invades your mouth, claiming every inch of you, tasting every tear, every gasp, every whimper. Abruptly, she breaks the kiss, her hand pulling back. Before you can react, her palm connects with your cheek, the force of the slap sending shockwaves of pain and pleasure coursing through your body. You cry out, your head snapping to the side, but you don't pull away.

Sevika's eyes blaze with a primal intensity as she watches the red handprint bloom on your cheek. She leans in, her voice a low, menacing growl.

"You like that, don't you? You like the sting, the burn. You like feeling used, abused, owned."

Her hand raises again, and this time, her palm crashes against your other cheek, the force of the blow sending you reeling. You let out a choked sob, your body trembling against the wall, but you don't turn away. Instead, you meet her gaze, a silent plea for more. There is such a pathetic needy look on your face.

Sevika's lips curl into a cruel smile, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "Good girl," she purrs, her voice laced with dark approval. "You take it so well. You take everything I give you and beg for more."

Sevika's hand raises again, poised to strike. The anticipation hangs heavy in the air, a tangible force that crackles between you. She leans in, her lips brushing against your ear, her voice a low, menacing whisper.

"Count them," she commands, her tone leaving no room for argument. "Count every blow, every slap, every mark I leave on your skin. Let it be a reminder of who owns you."

The first slap comes without warning, the sharp sting of her palm against your cheek making you cry out. "One," you gasp, your voice very unstable. Like your mental.

Sevika smirks, her hand raising again. "Two," you choke out as the second blow lands, the pain blossoming across your cheek.

She continues, each slap harder than the last, each one leaving a vivid red mark on your skin. You count them, your voice growing hoarse and ragged with each number. By the time she reaches ten, your face is a mess of tears and bruises, your body trembling beneath her touch. Sevika steps back, her eyes raking over your form, drinking in the sight of your battered, broken body. She leans in, her hand cupping your cheek gently, her thumb brushing away a stray tear.

"Beautiful," she murmurs, her voice barely above a whisper. "You look so fucking beautiful like this."

Her thumb traces the line of your jaw, her touch surprisingly tender despite the brutality that preceded it. You shiver, your body responding to her touch even through the haze of pain and tears.

Sevika's eyes darken, her pupils dilating as she notices the subtle shift in your body. She leans in, her breath hot against your ear as she whispers,

"You're wet, aren't you? All this pain, all this fear...it's turned you on."

Her hand moves from your cheek, trailing down your body until it reaches the dampness between your thighs. She presses her fingers against you, a low growl escaping her lips as she feels your arousal. "Filthy little slut," she murmurs, her voice laced with both contempt and desire.

She steps back, her eyes never leaving yours as she begins to unbuckle her belt. "Turn around," she commands, her voice stern. "Hands on the wall, ass out." You hesitate for a moment, a flicker of defiance in your eyes, but it quickly fades. You turn around, your body shaking slightly as you press your hands against the cold wall, your ass sticking out obediently.

Sevika watches you, her eyes gleaming with anticipation and darkness. She finishes unbuckling her belt, the sound of leather against denim echoing through the room. She steps closer, her body brushing against yours as she leans in, her lips finding your ear.

"Good girl," she whispers.

Her hand reaches around, her fingers brushing against your wetness before she plunges two fingers deep inside you. You let out a sharp gasp, your body tensing at the sudden intrusion. Sevika chuckles darkly, her other hand gripping your hip tightly.

"Relax," she commands, her fingers moving slowly, deliberately inside you. "Take what I give you."

She begins to move her fingers, her thrusts slow and steady at first, but quickly building in intensity. You can hear the wet sounds of your arousal, the slap of her hand against your flesh, and her low, dark growls of pleasure and dominance.

*Sevika leans in closer, her body pressing against yours as she whispers in your ear, "Who do you belong to, my dear? Who owns this pathetic little cunt?"

She punctuates each question with a sharp thrust of her fingers, her voice a low, menacing growl. "Answer me," she demands, her grip on your hip tightening even more.

Your mind reels with the intensity of it all—the pain, the pleasure, the overwhelming sense of Sevika's complete control over you. You know the answer she wants to hear, the words that will appease her dark desires. With a shaky breath, you manage to choke out,

"You...you own me. My body...my mind...everything belongs to you."

Sevika lets out a low, satisfied growl, her fingers still moving inside you, her palm pressing against your clit. She leans in, her teeth grazing your ear, her voice a dark, hungry whisper.

"That's right, my precious doll. You're mine, all mine. This tight little cunt, these perfect tits, this pretty face...it's all for me."

She punctuates her words with a particularly hard thrust, her fingers curling inside you, hitting that sweet spot that makes you see stars. Your body bucks against hers, a desperate moan escaping your lips as you feel the pressure building inside you.

"Don't cum," she growls, her voice a commanding snarl. "Not until I say so. You don't get to cum until I'm satisfied."

She continues her relentless assault, her fingers moving faster, harder, driving you closer and closer to the edge. Your body is on fire, every nerve ending alight with pleasure and pain, your mind consumed with thoughts of her, of how badly you need her.

"Please," you beg, your voice a broken whisper. "Please, I need...I need..."

Sevika chuckles darkly, her hand coming down on your ass in a sharp slap. Need what, pet?" she taunts, her fingers stilling for a moment before resuming their relentless thrusts. "Need my cock? Need my cum? Or do you just need more pain?"

Your body tenses at her words, your breath coming in short, desperate gasps. You're so close to the edge, so close to giving in to the pleasure that threatens to consume you.

She leans in, her lips brushing against your ear as she growls, "Beg for it, my sweet victim. Beg me to let you cum. Show me how much you want it."

"Please," you beg again, your voice barely above a whisper. "Please, I need...I need to cum. Please, Sevika, please let me cum."

She hums in approval, her fingers moving faster, harder. You can feel the orgasm building, the tension coiling in your body like a spring ready to snap.

"Cum for me, my pet," she growls, her voice laced with dark satisfaction. "Let go, let it all out. Show me how much you belong to me."

With a final, desperate thrust of her fingers, you tumble over the edge, your body convulsing as the orgasm rips through you. You cry out, your voice echoing through the room as wave after wave of pleasure crashes over you, leaving you gasping and spent. Sevika holds you tightly, her body pressed against yours as she rides out the storm with you. When the last of the spasms finally subside, she leans in, her voice a low, satisfied purr in your ear.

"Good girl," she murmurs. her fingers slowly slipping out of you. "Now get on your knees and show me how grateful you are."

You comply immediately, your body still shaking as you turn around and lower yourself to the ground. You look up at Sevika, your eyes filled with a mix of gratitude, fear, and desire.

She stands before you, her pants still unzipped, her shirt partially unbuttoned, revealing glimpses of her muscular chest. She reaches down, her hand wrapping around your hair as she guides your face towards her crotch.

"Show me what a good little slut you are," she growls, her voice laced with dark hunger. "Make me cum with that pretty little mouth of yours."

You tentatively reach out, your hands trembling as you grasp the waistband of her pants. You pull them down, revealing her toned thighs and the bulge of her chemtech prosthetic. You look up at her, a silent question in your eyes.

"Don't worry about that," she says, her voice harsh. "Just focus on making me feel good. That's all you need to worry about."

You nod, your breath coming in shallow gasps as you lean in, your tongue darting out to taste her. You can feel her tense under your touch, her body responding to your ministrations. You redouble your efforts, determined to please her, to show her how grateful you are for the release she's given you.

As you work, you can hear Sevika's breath coming in short, sharp gasps. Her hand tightens in your hair, her hips moving in time with your movements. You can feel the pressure building, the tension coiling in her body like a spring ready to snap.

"Fuck," she growls, her voice a low, guttural sound. "You're so fucking good at this. Such a good little slut."

The words send a shiver of pleasure and shame coursing through you, spurring you on. You continue your work, determined to bring her to the edge, to make her cum just as hard as she made you.

As Sevika's body tenses and her breath hitches, you can feel the moment of her climax approaching. Her grip on your hair tightens, her hips thrusting harder, faster. You take it all, your lips and tongue working in harmony to bring her to the edge.

"Fuck, yes," she groans, her voice a low, desperate growl. "You're so good, my little slut. So fucking good."

Her body convulses, a guttural cry escaping her lips as she finds her release. Warmth fills your mouth, her essence spilling over your tongue. You swallow, your eyes watering as you continue to suck, determined to take every last drop.Sevika's breath comes in ragged gasps as she rides out the waves of her orgasm. Finally, she pulls away, her hand releasing your hair as she steps back, her body trembling with the aftershocks of her climax.

"Good girl," she whispers, her voice hoarse with satisfaction. "You did so well."

You look up at her, your eyes filled with a mix of pride and exhaustion. You've pleased her, and in this moment, that's all that matters.

Sevika extends a hand to you, helping you to your feet. She looks you over, her eyes roaming your body, taking in the bruises, the marks, the signs of your submission.

"You look beautiful," she murmurs, her voice softening. "Like a work of art."

She leans in, her lips brushing against yours in a gentle, almost tender kiss. It's a stark contrast to the rough, brutal passion that came before, and it leaves you feeling cherished, wanted, and utterly belonged to her.

"Clean yourself up," she says, stepping back and gesturing towards a nearby sink. "Then come find me. I have...other plans for you."

You nod, a shiver of anticipation and fear running through you as you move to do as she commands. Whatever she has in store for you next, you know one thing for certain— You belonged to Sevika.

❥・・ ┈┈┈┈┈‪༚༅༚˳ . ୨୧ . ˳༚༅༚┈┈┈┈ ・・❥

Wow you stayed until the end… freak. Heh I hope you enjoyed ^^ MIGHT make a continuation someday. <3 Be sure to take care of yourselves!!

[bwskj]

Keeping You Safe…

leon kennedy x reader r18 smut:

synopsis | leon kennedy, a government agent ordered to rescue you, keeps you safe while waiting for the storm to die down in an old abandoned cottage.

tags l backstory, rough, intimacy, cream🥧, soft

word count: 6763

fic is mine alone, no repost~

—— enjoy! ——

The sky is dark and thunder echoes from high above. With hands over your ears, you follow the steps of the agent who was sent to rescue you. You feel your body jolt every time he shoots or knifes one of the monsters along the way. Uneasy, you take a look behind you; thankfully, there’s nothing and nobody there.

The sound of static pulls you back to face ahead of you. Leon is holding a talking device close to one side of his face. “Yea, like I have any other choice. I’ll give you an update when I find one.” There’s a pause while the person on the other end replies. No matter how hard you try to pick out the sound, the strong wind and rustle of leaves overpower the caller’s voice. “I’ve been doing this job for years. You don’t have to tell me again… Copy that. Condor one out.”

Though shivering and slightly numb, you muster up some strength to close the small distance between you and Leon. “What’s happening?”, you ask.

“Chopper can’t land because of the incoming storm. We’ve gotta find some place to stay and wait. Come on, just stay close behind for now.”

Your stomach twists when you hear this. How long do you have to endure this?! How long do you have to be afraid? You watch as Leon carefully treads the path, hands gripping around his revolver, ready for any enemy. It surely is going to rain soon, you think, as you look up at the sky which seems even darker now than earlier.

Luckily, as the both of you slowly make your way down the path, there aren’t as many monsters needed to be dealt with. Most of them were found alone so Leon was able to easily sneak up behind them and stab them in the throat. Soon enough, your sights stumbled upon an old wooden and stone cottage. For a second, you feel relief. You’ve been running away from the monsters for a long while. You’ll finally be able to get some rest—try to, at least.

Leon tells you to stand still, and so you do, arms now wrapped around yourself. You watch as he goes around the house, checking to make sure there aren’t any monsters lurking nearby. When he’s done clearing the property, he goes up to the front porch. Once again positioning his handgun, he slowly opens the door to check the inside. The moment Leon’s body vanishes in the house, fear starts to bubble up within you. But it isn’t long until the door opens wider and Leon comes out.

“It’s safe. Come in.” He says, gesturing with a nudge of his head.

You don’t wait a second before you’re making your way up the porch and into the cottage. It’s definitely much warmer in here so you loosen the tight grip you have around yourself. There’s a musty smell to it but it’s probably because of the wet wood. There’s a table, a sofa chair, a chimney, a sink, a bed… everything a human would need to live decently, except there was no more human living in it.

“Make yourself at home,” Leon says, waving over to whatever still exists in the house.

“It’s not your home,” you say.

“Well, finders keepers.”

You sigh, which seems to help warm you up even more. Leon’s making some noises again and when you turn to look, he’s busy rummaging through his things on one of the work benches.

Walking over, you peer from behind him and watch as he starts mixing some ingredients together. “What’s that?” You ask.

“Medicinal herbs,” he replies, “If you mix them they become more potent and effective.”

He stuffs the mixed vials back into storage. Then, he takes some other stuff and starts forging them together. “And that?” You can’t help but ask.

Leon huffs a sigh. You think he might be getting annoyed, but he replies, “I’m making more ammo. In case, they get in here.”

You freeze up and from his peripheral, Leon notices. “And for the journey ahead,” he adds, “Don’t worry. I won’t let them hurt you.”

Unfortunately, his words don’t reassure you. Instead your stomach turns even more, now with a growing guilt. You’re helpless, just a maiden in need of rescuing.

“Do you think, maybe, you can give a me a gun to use?”

“Just keep doing your thing, princess. I don’t want to have to worry about being accidentally shot by the one im protecting.”

You grumble a, ‘im not that stupid’, under your breath but secretly you know Leon’s right to worry about that. And, princess? Really? You’re capable of handling yourself, to some extent. Surely, if only your opponent weren’t flesh eating monsters and cultish mutation-obsessed maniacs.

Leon turns to look at you after setting the ammunition he just made down on the table, “You should go get some rest. I’ll be awake so you can rest easy.”

Your eyes lift to look at his face. You’ve never been directly in front of him like this before. It’s also the first time you ever saw him clearly. You already knew he was a handsome man, just from his build alone, but even his face is good looking. Chiseled jaw, tall nose, and with sharp piercing eyes. Silver, almost overgrown, strands of hair frame the sides, which was probably why you never certainly saw his face. You flinch, spotting the still open gashes and scratches on his face.

“You’re hurt,” you start as your hand reaches up to his face. But Leon grabs your wrist, stopping you from going any further.

“I’m fine. I’ll be healed sooner than you think.” He lets go off your arm, but your limb still hangs in the air. Leon brings his attention around the room, looking for something that you can rest on. Again, you watch as he searches through drawers and cupboards until he finds a soft piece of cloth—for sleeping or for the table, you’re not sure.

“You can lay on these,” he points to some rice bags in the corner, “and use this to keep yourself warm,” he hands you the cloth he found.

“Thanks,” you manage to say. The cloth in your hands doesn’t feel as dusty as you thought it would. It’s probably because it was kept shut in a cupboard. Might be even better to hide in a cupboard forever rather than face those monsters again, you think.

You walk over to the pile of empty rice sacks in the corner of the room. Those look dusty. You look back over at Leon but he’s back to being busy with his stuff again. As you crouch down and plop yourself onto the floor by the bags, you start to feel the exhaustion truly set in. Your feet and legs burned in soreness. Your shoulders drooped and your eyelids grew heavy. You lay on the sacks and you aren’t even able to fully cover yourself with the cloth before you fall into a deep sleep.

——

The monsters are heading towards you. And that powerful man, floating, he’s coming from the opposite way. And what are those? More of them screeching with what looks like tentacles sprouting from their heads.

You run, run as you fast as your legs can take you. But they are feeling sore and your heart can’t seem to catch up. You have to run, but you can’t breathe well. As you stumble, you take one look at your arm which terrifies you even more to your wits end. Your veins are turning a deathly black. It’s the mold.

“yn!”

Quickly, your head turns. “Leon!” You cry out.

Where is he? Where’s Leon? Your head feels like it’s spinning as you try to look around the fog and the hoards of scary things coming your way. His voice calling out to you echoes in every direction. You can’t find him.

Until you do, and he appears almost entirely consumed by the same mold as the one creeping up your arm. And all of a sudden, the monsters aren’t right behind you. They’re charging straight towards Leon, running right past you with a speed so quick that wind almost knocks you over. You know that he can no longer run.

“Wait, no! Leon!” Your cry is louder, clearly ringing in your ears this time, and your eyes snap awake. Breathing fast and heavy, your hands try to reach for your face but somebody else’s beat you to it. Leon is sitting next to you with a grip on your arm with one hand while the other is muffling out the sound of your voice.

“Hey, hey, shh it’s a dream. It’s a dream.” Your eyes twitch around until it finds the surprisingly soft gaze in Leon’s own pair as he holds you and your face in his hands.

As you quiet down, Leon slowly removes his hand from over your mouth. You start to gasp and hiccup, feeling tears welling in your eyes. “Leon…” you say and you throw your arms around his neck because you thought he had died just seconds ago. “You’re here.” You try to sniffle up your tears because you don’t want them to fall and wet Leon’s shirt.

“Of course, I’m here.” Leon says, pushing past his surprise at your sudden action of skinship. His arms which hung awhile in the air in hesitation, begin to softly pat and rub your back in an attempt to console you.

You hiccup some more, burying your face into Leon’s shoulder. There’s no way his shirt isn’t getting a little damp. His big hands rubbing on your back feel nice, and you can already feel your heart rate calming down.

“Don’t you ever think about yourself?” You mumble against him.

“What are you talking about?”

“In my dream… you were going to die. You had no chance. You were dead.”

You feel his chest rise and fall beneath you. “That’s not gonna happen. It’s my job to keep you safe until I get you home. I can’t do that if I’m dead.”

You pull your teary face away from his shoulder, looking straight into his determined eyes. Your heart skips a beat, you think. “You’re going to stay alive for the sake of this mission.”

“Yes, I don’t plan on failing any of my missions.”

You chew on the inside of your lip and stare at him before saying, “Promise you won’t die. Or get fatally injured. Or injured at all.”

Leon frowns, wondering where the hell these words are coming from. “I can’t promise that. What i can promise is that I’m going to get you home, no matter at what cost.”

This time it’s you who frowns. He can’t seem to stop thinking about fulfilling his mission and keeping you safe. But what about him? How is he faring with all these wounds and having to worry about himself and you at the same time?

Leon notices your stare spacing out so he knows you’re thinking about something. Are you still not reassured? “Try to get some more rest. The rain hasn’t stopped,” he says.

It’s only now you notice the strong pitter

patter of rain outside. The wind blows as equally intense. “I can’t,” you say, because you’re scared the nightmare will happen again and you’re scared that when you wake up, the nightmare would have come true while you were sleeping.

You stare at your hand that is resting close to Leon’s chest, now only realizing how close the two of you are. It’s been a while with the both of you like this and Leon’s hand is still on your back. Does he have no intention of pulling away? Suddenly, your heart feels warm, not only because of Leon’s body heat creeping over to you but because he most definitely cares. He’s intent on keeping you safe.

“Thank you, Leon… for doing all this.” You position your head on his chest this time. Before he could open his mouth to tell you that it’s his job, you continue, “I know my father paid you to do this, but still… it must be difficult.”

You feel him breathe deep again. “You’re welcome,” he says, and you smile softly to yourself.

For a while, the both of you sit still and close. The rain continues to pour outside but you both can hear each other’s breathing. It’s so calming you can almost forget the nightmare you just had. You take a large breath in; Leon smells like dirt—the good kind. You watch, hypnotized, as your finger draws small imaginary circles on Leon’s shirt. When falling out of the trance, you shift your head up to check on how Leon is doing.

He isn’t looking at you or particularly anywhere. His expression is the same cold one he usually wears, but he appears less guarded and distressed. The cuts on his face are still open but he’s wiped off the dried blood and dirt surrounding them. He huffs out another deep sigh. You lightly frown before saying, “Are you comfortable like this?”

Leon’s gaze flicks over to you. You realize you’re so close to him you can even notice the slight twitch at the front of his brow.

He clears his throat, takes his hand off your back, and moves you off him. “Rest. I should get back to keeping watch.”

He pushes himself off the floor leaving you on the ground. Not even a few seconds of him away from you and you feel a shiver run through you. “Wait, don’t go!” You say, grabbing onto his leg because that’s the farthest you could reach. “Did you not like it?”

Facing you, he looks at your hand grasping his pant leg and then back to your concerned face. “I need to stay alert for our safety.”

Your eyes fall to the ground, but you don’t let go of him just yet. You look at his pants and catch sight of his pockets. “Can’t you just keep watch while you’re beside me. You have a gun in your pocket anyways.”

“Gun? I don’t have any with me right now. They’re all on the workbench.”

Huh? You think, and your head snaps up to look at him… then down to his pockets. That is not a… gun?

“I’ll just be by the door,” Leon says and he starts to move to step away. You’re clinging on strong, however, and you try again, “No! Just bring a gun with you here and stay here. Please, I still don’t feel safe being by myself.”

“I will only be a few feet away,” Leon states, like that isn’t obvious.

“Still…” you mumble, “you know what i mean.”

Leon sighs for the nth time and gives you a disapproving stare before saying, “You’re really a princess, aren’t you?”

You open your mouth to argue but Leon tugs his leg away (apparently you weren’t holding strong enough), grabs a rifle gun and revolver from the workbench, and tosses it on the floor beside you. In seconds, he’s back on the ground with his back leaned on the wall. “Better?” He says with those sharp eyes again.

You feel a blush heat up your cheeks. You didn’t think he’d actually give in… and without much argument. You stayed sitting upright, however. You aren’t sure if you could just resume the position the both of you were in earlier. Leon’s squinting out the window on the opposite end of the room. He sure is keeping watch.

Then a shiver runs up your body again. It must be the rain making the air so cold. You take your makeshift blanket and put it around yourself, eyeing Leon as he grabs his weapons and starts pulling some levers and fitting pieces of metal in.

With him busy, you keep on looking. At first, you were locked on the sight of his arms, a vein peeking out whenever he exerts a certain amount of force. But then your eyes wander and it lingers at the thing you saw in his pants. That isn’t a gun, you remind yourself, and you feel a little bit of warmth wave over you for a second. It’s huge… or is it because he’s wearing tight pants. Something faintly pulses inside you and you bite on your cheek, knowing what it means.

You shiver again. The cold isn’t being fought off. You press your hands together, trying to eliminate the chill in your fingers.

Leon, noticing this, says, “Are you okay?” There he goes being concerned again.

“Yea, just…” your words trail off as Leon puts down his weapons and reaches for your arm under the cloth. His fingers run up and down your arm as he inspects for any sign of mold. You blush as his fingertips tingle on your skin. His hands are quite big too, probably almost twice as big as yours.

He looks up at your face. “Do you feel sick? You’re face is red,” his hand moves to check the temperature on your face. It’s warm alright. He takes your chin and moves your head up and around.

“What are you doing?” You say, finding it a bit too hard to keep a calm composure.

“Just checking,” He says.

He won’t seem to stop pushing your face in different directions, checking on and behind your neck, so you grab to stop his arm.

Something twitches on his face in what seems like surprise. “You’re cold,” he says, and he in turn takes your hand off his arm. He encloses both your hands around his, and almost immediately it warms your fingers up.

How is he so warm? He doesn’t even have a jacket on. “Don’t want you getting hypothermia,” he says, and you feel like scoffing. Great, another way you could die.

Just as he says this, you shiver for the third time, and you wonder if he noticed. Even if he did, he doesn’t say anything and sits still holding your hands in his. A shiver for the fourth time comes by, then, all of a sudden, Leon lets go, and he puts his arm around you to pull you close to him.

“Leon!” You exclaim in surprise.

“Just stay still if you want to warm up,” he says. With one hand wrapped around you rubbing heat, he fixes your blanket, making sure it’s covering you well, over your head, shoulders, and half your face. When he’s done, you’re snuggled up under the cloth and in Leon’s arms. For the first time in a while, you’re so comfortable.

Like this, you feel even more grateful for Leon. It’s like every part of you is warm now: your heart, your face, and your body. Leon’s still soothing you when he asks, “How is this?”

“Better,” you mumble into the cloth hovering over your mouth.

Leon sighs, and you think it sounds like one of relief. This would be the perfect time to fall asleep again, but for some reason your eyes won’t stay closed. Looking off in front of you, your sight is directed towards the floor, and how conveniently (lol) at Leon’s crotch. Is it just you or did it grow even bigger?

After a while more of staring, you come to the assumption that he is… hard. No man just exists with that big of a…

Leon clears his throat, causing u to jolt a little. You shift your head to look up at him. You seem to be looking up at him a lot of the time. The blanket on your head falls out of place.

You make eye contact, but you can’t tell what Leon is thinking. The both of you hold your gaze until it’s been too long and a tension snaps you both out of it. Your eyes fall back down, and you think… maybe, if he would like…

“Leon,” you say, and your hand thats all warmed up peeks out of the cover of your blanket. It hovers lightly somewhere on Leon’s chest. “Could I, maybe, show you how thankful I am?” Your finger lands on his chest, and slowly, cautiously, you start tracing a random path down his torso. His stomach softly rises and falls.

You don’t dare to look up to see Leon’s reaction just yet. But surely he knows what you mean, right? And you know he can stop you if he doesn’t want this.

“Show me?” You hear his voice, low, almost like he’s hesitant to speak.

You get to the end of his shirt, your fingers lightly picking at his belt. The bulge in his pants is only inches away from your touch. Your heart beat is speeding up with every second that passes in which Leon hasn’t pushed you away.

Mustering up courage, you pull your face up to meet his eyes again. Leon is staring back, and you try desperately to tell him what you mean with your own. You notice Leon shift his jaw, exhaling a breath through parted lips. You bite down on your lower lip as you start to feel that pulse again. He still isn’t moving away.

It’s now or never. You push yourself up with the hand on Leon’s belt, and it doesn’t take more than a second for you to lean in and put your lips on his. Your nerves freaking out at what you just did almost makes you yourself pull away but then Leon presses his mouth willingly onto yours and kisses you back.

He’s found a hold on your lower back as the two of you are kissing, the pulse inside growing stronger when you sense Leon’s obvious desire for your lips. His breaths in between every kiss is causing an electric feeling to run across your skin. It’s exciting you more that it really should. Well, this all shouldn’t be happening in the first place, but how can you stop yourself now.

Like Leon magically heard your thoughts, he pulls himself away. You guess it’s because he’s thinking exactly about that. “This,” his chest rises and falls quick as he tries to catch his breath, “We shouldn’t be… your father is not going to like this—“

“Of course he won’t,” you quickly say, “But why would we even tell him.” You don’t want to make it out to be but you’re desperate to feel him again.

“You’re my client.” He says with a frown. Who is he trying to convince?

“No, my dad is your client,” You reply, “I’m… I’m the one you’re trying to keep safe.” You go to hold his face in your hands, meanwhile his stare is still unsure, so you say, “And I need you to make me feel safe… right now.”

You can feel his hand scratching lightly on your back. With the way he was kissing you, he must want this as much as you do.

“You feel unsafe,” he asks but it sounds like a statement.

“Very…” you almost whisper as you slowly lean back in. His hand on your back squeezes you lightly. “So kiss me”

There’s a spark in his eyes before he does, closing the gap in between both your lips. This time his kiss is stronger, as if he doesn’t wish to think about anything else anymore. He pulls you in even closer and his hands feeling you up brings a good shiver up your spine. As the both of you move to respond to one another’s lips, the blanket becomes a bother so Leon rips it away. Your skin is now only separated with the cloth of your fitted blouse.

You try to push yourself closer because he tastes exceptionally good and you want more. When you start to get up on your knees, still kissing him and playing with the hair at the back of his nape, you feel Leon hooking an arm below your thigh to lift you over and on his lap.

“Leon,” you gasp because you’re sitting on him, and you can feel his rock hard dick beneath you.

“Don’t worry,” Leon says as he starts to move his kisses to and under your jawline, “I’ll keep you safe.”

You can’t help but lean your head back so Leon can kiss you even more. Your fingers are intertwined with his silver locks just above his nape. You can’t stop either from starting to shift against him, especially when Leon’s teeth grazes your skin. He knows what he’s doing, you think as you feel yourself flush in warmth, because as aggressive as he was from the start, his touch on you is also gentle and careful.

Leon’s hand slips under the back of your blouse, inching towards the clasp of your bra. It rests on top of it and you anticipate it to come loose, but it doesn’t and you look down at Leon, though all you see is hair.

Thinking he’s wary, you tell him, “You can… take it off.”

That’s all Leon needs to hear and he unclasps your bra with a tug and flick. Cool air seeps onto the skin under your shirt and you don’t even have time to gasp before Leon’s got hold of your breast.

“Ah, Leon,” you say, because Leon’s big hand feels warm and perfect on your cool chest. He squeezes and his mouth on your neck kisses you like he has to make sure he’s got every spot.

You can’t hold back any longer and your intently moving your hips against his big boner. There’s a low growl from Leon and you feel the vibrations of the sound on your skin. He grabs you from behind your neck and puts his lips back on your mouth. When he caresses the surrounding skin around your nipple, a louder moan accidentally slips from your lips. With your mouth opening, Leon takes advantage, trying to kiss deeper and on your tongue.

Noticing that you particularly liked that, Leon continues to play with the center of your breast. You’re breaths grew more ragged the gentler he touched you. When your lips disconnect to take a moment to breathe, you can’t take any more of Leon’s shallow teasing.

Grabbing onto Leon’s wrist under your shirt, you push his hand onto your chest, your nipple sitting in between his 2 longest fingers. “More,” you breath out.

You gasp as Leon listens, touching you there more purposely. Your back straightens as you try to push your chest closer to his hand while your clothed cunt still rubs on his erection. With eyes closed, pleasure courses through your whole body and you can already feel yourself dripping wet in your pants. You want to get them off.

You open your eyes, and look at Leon. His gaze is locked on you while you breathe heavily and rock back and forth on him. Somehow, him looking at you like this made you feel even better, and even when you close your mouth, you can barely stop the moans from sounding out.

“Ha..” Leon exhales, his hand that found it’s way to your waist squeezes the side of your stomach. You only notice now how his own breathing is rough too. He’s definitely feeling good.

“Leon,” you call his name again because just saying it alone feels amazing.

“yn.” hearing your name in that breathy voice of his makes your stomach flip. You feel Leon put pressure on your waist, likely trying to bring you closer to his dick. This is enough to drive you crazy.

“Leon, I can’t,” you say, “I need…” you don’t know how to say it.

“What yn?” Leon lightly puts his face in your neck again. You feel him breathe you in.

“I… I need you inside me,” hearing yourself actually say it out loud felt insane.

Leon exhales, “Take this off?” He runs his finger in between the rim of your pants and your soft tummy skin.

“Mm,” you move to work quickly with your zipper but you can’t get the button out. Leon helps you with that and you kneel up a bit to get your pants off.

“Is it cold?” Leon says as you sit back down, his big hands running over your exposed thighs.

“No, it’s okay.” You kiss him before he could worry even more.

Leon gladly reciprocates, trying to get his tongue in your mouth again. Leon’s hand on your thigh moves it’s way to your front. He softly circles your clit over your wet panties and you moan, feeling more of your juice spill out.

You grind, this time seeking more pleasure from his hand. “More,” you whisper on his lips.

Leon scoffs as he pulls away to look at you. “Needy, princess.” Surprised, you’re about to say something in retort, but then he slips his hand down your panties and his fingers start touching your bare pussy, and you forget what you want to say.

“You’re so wet,” Leon says under his breath. At this point, you think you might actually go crazy. Your moans start to sound more like needy whimpers the more Leon lingers only outside your pussy lips. You push your cunt down onto his hand and he knows you can’t wait any longer.

Leon is immediately able to put two fingers in. You gasp as it shoots right at your g spot. “Ah fuck,” you let out as Leon starts moving his fingers in a circle inside you. Gripping onto his broad shoulders, you steady yourself as he then pulls his fingers out before pushing it up inside you again. As he finger fucks you like this, you can’t control your moans, and you’re quite out of it that you don’t realize Leon focused on your lewd expressions and subtly rubbing himself outside his pants with his free hand.

The longer he fucks you the more you feel your muscles relaxing, and soon, even clenching against his fingers didn’t make you feel as filled up as you like. Your g spot feels good with every thrust of his fingers but you know you need more.

“Leon,” you ride on his fingers and go to kiss his neck this time. “It’s not enough,” you mumble, because you might be starting to feel shy.

“I need you… inside me,” your hand feels behind you until it meets his hand which has been palming his own boner. The cloth on this part is damp from precum.

Leon, alarmed, pulls you off his neck to look at you. “I… don’t have contraception.”

“I don’t care,” you say, and it’s mostly true. How do you tell him it’s even better for you when it’s raw and pounding inside you? How do you tell him you might be fine with risking it just to know how it feels to have his hard and big dick filling you up.

“This isn’t…” Leon starts, and you know he’s trying so hard to hold back.

“Please,” you say, giving him your most persuasive pair of eyes as you start softly palming his hard on in his pants, “Please fuck me.”

“You always get what you want, don’t you.”

You shyly look away because he’s right, being a daughter of a high official, you’re used to things going your way. You’re not that surprised when Leon starts unbuckling his belt and unbuttoning his pants. You blush as you watch him do so underneath you, flushed as red and as excited.

“I’m going to fuck you then since you want it so bad,” he says and he lifts your body up with one hand, surprising you with how easily he does so, before slipping your panty to the side and positioning his raw cock right at your entrance.

You don’t have time to say anything as he helps you fit his cock inside. You can only gasp and shake when you realize the size and length of what was about to fuck you.

“Fuck,” Leon moans and you say “shit” as well because how the hell does it feel like there’s three fingers inside you. When you push down and his dick hits the end of your pussy, you exclaim and Leon has to put his hand over your mouth again.

“Quiet,” Leon shudders, “They might hear us.”

Suddenly, you remember the reality you are in. You’re not fucking Leon in a safe place. You were just running from mutated monsters hours ago. What would happen if one of them came in here while this was happening? Your heart rate speeds up at the thought, but you can’t keep it there as you get distracted every time Leon’s dick hits deep inside you again.

You continue this slow and steady pace of riding his cock. Just a bit more up and downs and you know you’ll get used to it. You breathe shakily as his thick member stimulates the nerves on your walls.

“You’re squeezing tight,” Leon exhales.

“N-no,” you stutter, “you’re just big.”

“Are you okay?” He asks in between heavy breaths, sweeping a strand of hair away from your face.

You nod, “I’m okay. It… It feels good, Leon.”

Just like you thought, it’s starting to become easier along the way, and before you know it, you were heading towards bouncing up and down his dick. As much as you try to keep your moans down, it was difficult since Leon is filling you even better than you thought he would. Every time you think he’s hit the deepest part, the next stroke goes even deeper. Though after a while, your pace starts to slow down. The position you are in is starting to bother you.

“Leon.”

“Do you need help?” he asks. Can he actually read your mind? You give him a nod and he grabs you by your waist again. “Lean on me,” he tells you. You lean forward wrapping your arms around his neck before kissing him softly.

Leon starts moving on his own, pushing his whole length into you. At first its slow, and you can keep most of your voice down. But he’s gradually speeding up, making sure to not leave any feeling of emptiness in your cunt while also directly hitting your gspot. It must be the position you two are in. The lack of rubber between your parts made Leon’s movements feel smooth and hot. Is this what heaven feels like?

“Fuck fuck fuck,” you mutter under your breath as he fucks you hard while squeezing and spreading your ass apart. It’s so good you can feel your eyes rolling back. It’s so much better than when you ride it on your own. Leon accompanies your moans with soft grunts and sharp exhales of air.

As you feel your muscles clench on his dick, you know you’re going to cum soon. Leon lifts up your shirt and puts his head under, finding your nipple and sucking on it. Caught off guard, you quickly cover your mouth with your own hand, muffling out the sound of a lewd moan.

“Fuck, Leon, I’m gonna cum,” you say in a loud whisper. Picturing in your mind how Leon’s dick pounding inside you would look like pushes you even more to the edge of an orgasm.

Hearing this Leon sucks and kisses on you harder, one hand going under to play with your other breast before going down to press below your stomach. Seconds later, you’re moaning messily into the palm of your hand when you orgasm all over Leon’s lap. As your legs quiver, you grab on tightly to Leon, the pleasure overwhelming you.

“Ha… Leon,” you say. Leon’s face appears from under your shirt, lips a little swollen and hair ruffled up. In what seems like a blink of an eye, Leon picks you up again, this time off his dick. He grabs both your arms with one hand and turns you around, before knocking you over to lay on your hands and knees.

“Hey! L-Leon!” You exclaim, as he pulls your panties down and shoves his cock back inside. “Ah!” You throw an arm over your mouth to shut yourself up.

“That’s right. Be a good girl and stay quiet.” Leon says, looming over you with every new thrust. “I’m not done.”

Just like that, pleasure shoots up through your cunt again. So good you can somehow feel it in your stomach. Your cum made fucking even easier and you can hear the slap of his skin and the clang of his belt against you. ‘Fuckk, Leon’ you drawl against your arm, saliva heavily wetting it.

Leon groans as he grabs on to the back of your neck. At this point, you’re not even sure if he remembers he’s fucking a person. But even if it’s for his own pleasure, you feel like your mind is in a haze. Dizziness passes by the harder he fucks you and you don’t even remember how many times you’ve come in the past 3 minutes. As far as you know, he hasn’t even slept. How does he still have this much energy?! In the back of your mind there’s an intrusive hought that thinks maybe you shouldn’t care anymore. Fuck those monsters. All you want is to let yourself freely express how good you feel.

“Fuck.. ah,” Leons voice is bordering on whimpering. You can feel him getting close by how hot it feels inside your pussy. “Shit.”

“Leon, nghmm… cum inside, please inside..” you’re a mumbling mess.

Leon unsure of what he heard, pulls you up from the floor by a big tug on your hair. He presses your back onto his chest and holds you as he slows his pace a bit.

“What did you say? You want me to cum inside?” Leon says right next to your ear. “Is that what you want? Is that why you were so desperate to be fucked raw? You don’t care what daddy will think, don’t you. You don’t mind if I cum inside and get you pregnant?”

Leon’s sudden and harsh attitude is so unexpected it turns you on drastically and you feel like cumming again. “I-I never…,” he squeezes your breast again as he kisses your shoulder.

Father will understand, you faintly think.

“Yes, Leon, please cum inside. Fill me up. I need it so bad.”

Leon turns you over for another time and lays your back on the floor. He interlocks his fingers with yours and pins your hand down by your head leaning in to kiss you again. You don’t think you’ll ever get sick of this.

Leon’s thrusts speed up back to his usual pace. He’s panting and groaning in between kisses. Eventually, his pleasure intensifies to a point that he cant even properly kiss you anymore. You cup his face with your free hand and look up at the sight of Leon’s flustered and pleasure filled expression.

“Gonna cum,” he says and he presses down on your stomach again. You gasp as whats left of another orgasm flows through you. You make sure to keep your eyes open to watch Leon as he finishes. When he does, his body jerks and he lets out a couple more short moans. You let out one of your own which merges into a sigh as you feel his member twitch inside yours and a warm liquid settles.

Leon slowly pulls himself out and plops down on the floor. He’s catching his breath. Meanwhile, you lay on the ground in a euphoric state, staring off at the ceiling as you feel his ejaculation drip out of you.

All you hear is soft rain from outside when static suddenly enters the air. “Hello, condor one, are you there? I repeat, condor one, do you hear me.”

Leons head flings towards the workbench. Scrambling to his feet and almost losing his balance, he tries to stuff his dick back into his pants before grabbing the talking device that was speaking.

“Yes, I’m here,” he says with a clear of his throat.

“Where have you been?! I’ve been trying to contact you for 30 minutes now!” The caller’s voice is so angry you can hear her from where you’re laying. “Please tell me you still have Blue Lily.”

“Yes, she’s here. We just… had a little trouble, but we’re fine,” the volume of the callers voice fades out, “and i’m fine, thanks for asking by the way,” he continues with a sarcastic tone.

“Okay, got it. We’ll be there as soon as possible… alright! 10 minutes… 7… Condor one out.”

A beep sounds and Leon puts the device down. “Come on, princess. I know you’re tired but aftercare has got to wait. We’ve got to get you out of here.”

——

a/n: thank u for reading! im still getting better at r18 fics so leave ur comments/criticisms <33

[swiftiethatlovesf1]

The assistant p.2

Heyy guys, I hope you enjoy this one shot of Lewis x assistant, thanks for all the support on this story :) If you want to read more stories of mine here's my masterlist.

Lewis had been avoiding me since that night.

The moment he pulled away and told me to go home, something changed. The next day, he was distant, professional, as if nothing had happened. Every time I entered a room, he made sure to already be leaving. Every time our hands almost brushed, he pulled away. Every time I dared to look at him, he refused to meet my gaze.

But I couldn’t stop replaying that night in my head. The heat in his eyes, the way his fingers lingered on my skin, the tension so thick it felt like a thread about to snap. What would have happened if I hadn’t walked away? If he had given in?

Now, he wouldn’t even give me a chance to find out.

Tonight, the storm raged outside, rain slamming against the windows of the Ferrari headquarters. The building was nearly empty, most people gone for the night, but I was still there, finishing up some reports for Lewis. I told myself it was just work, but the truth was, I was hoping to run into him. Hoping to see something—anything—that told me I wasn’t imagining all of it.

I fumbled with the stack of papers on my desk, nearly knocking over my coffee in the process. "Oh, for—" I muttered, barely catching it before it spilled all over the reports. With an exasperated sigh, I gathered my things, shoved them into my bag, and made my way toward the lift, already picturing my warm bed and maybe some ice cream to soothe my restless thoughts.

The doors began to close when—

A tattooed hand slid between them, stopping them at the last second.

My breath caught in my throat as Lewis stepped inside. The air instantly felt charged, the space suddenly much smaller.

He hesitated, looking as if he was about to turn around and take the stairs, but then—

He didn’t.

Instead, he exhaled sharply and took his place beside me. Silence wrapped around us, thick and unbearable. The soft hum of the elevator was the only sound between us.

Until it stopped.

The lights flickered, the entire lift jolting to a halt. My chest tightened as I slammed my palm against the control panel. Nothing. I pressed the emergency button. Still nothing.

My breathing quickened. My heartbeat pounded in my ears.

“Hey, it’s alright,” Lewis said, instantly pulling out his phone. “I’ll call for help.”

I tried to stay calm, but the walls felt like they were closing in. The storm outside only made it worse—the flickering lights, the low rumble of thunder in the distance.

Lewis cursed under his breath. “No signal.” He tried the emergency intercom. No response.

Panic clawed at my throat. My breathing turned shallow and erratic.

“Breathe,” Lewis said, turning to me. “Look at me, Y/N.”

I couldn’t. I was too far gone. My hands were trembling, my chest too tight to take in enough air. “I—I can’t—I’m claustrophobic,” I choked out.

His hands came up to my shoulders, firm and grounding. “You need to slow your breathing. Focus on me.”

I tried, I really did, but my body wouldn’t listen.

Then, suddenly, Lewis cupped my face in his hands—and kissed me.

The shock of it stole the breath right out of my lungs. His lips were warm, firm, desperate. It was nothing like I imagined—it was more. So much more. His scent, his touch, the way he exhaled softly against my lips, as if he had been holding back for too long.

When he pulled away, my breathing had steadied, but for an entirely different reason.

“Lewis,” I whispered, my voice shaky but no longer with fear.

His forehead rested against mine, his hands still framing my face. “I shouldn’t have done that.”

“Then why did you?”

His jaw clenched, his thumbs tracing the curve of my cheek. “Because I can’t stop thinking about you. And I hate myself for it.”

My heart stuttered. “Why?”

“Because I’m older. Because I’m your boss.” His voice was raw, strained. “Because I should be better than this.”

I swallowed, my hands sliding up to grip his wrists. “Do you want to be better than this?”

His eyes darkened. “No.”

And then, all restraint shattered.

His lips crashed against mine, stealing the breath right from my lungs. This wasn’t careful or hesitant—it was raw, hungry, consuming. He pressed me against the wall of the elevator, his hands roaming, exploring, as if he had been starving for this for far too long.

I gasped against his mouth, my fingers tangling in his hair as he trailed kisses down my jaw and neck. His hands slid beneath my blazer, pulling me closer, his breath hot against my skin.

“Tell me to stop,” he murmured, his voice thick with need.

I pulled him closer instead. “Don’t you dare.”

His hands gripped my hips, his lips trailing lower, his fingers making quick work of my blouse. Every touch was intoxicating, every press of his body against mine unraveling me further. My breath hitched as he nipped at the sensitive skin of my collarbone, his hands tightening around my waist as if he couldn’t get enough.

The world outside ceased to exist. The storm, the lift, the rules—all of it faded into irrelevance. There was only him. Only us.

By the time the emergency power kicked in and the lift jolted back to life, I was a breathless mess, clinging to him as if letting go would send me spiraling.

We barely had time to straighten our clothes before the doors slid open, revealing a security guard looking mildly confused at the sight of us standing so close.

I stepped out first, my legs unsteady, my heart still racing. I turned back to look at Lewis, his lips swollen, his breathing still uneven.

Everything had changed.

And there was no going back.

@rageshots, @krltkselsl, @mmm777mmm777

Part 3

[moody-alcoholic]

Cross My Heart

Part 14 - Dirty Work

Summary: eventual poly141 x reader. Enemies to lovers, mini fic. CW: Death, use of weapons, little bit of torture, violence, military inaccuracies.

Previous parts - masterlist - next AO3

Enjoy <3

You make it down the stairs last. Johnny came to wake after what felt like no time at all. You really need to get a good night's sleep soon. You have a feeling that won’t be happening though. When you make it to the dining room things feel different. Johnny is standing next to Gaz and Ghost looks almost like he’s sulking in the corner of the room. 

Price is leaning over the table looking at images of a compound. “We split into 2 teams, you three go round the back me and Ghost will go in the front.” He says before looking over at you. He frowns before standing up straight and crossing his arms. 

“The building should be running with the night staff. Al Qatala only, we’ll need to disable the alarms, you should be able to cut the power directly from a room at the back of the building.” Price says pointing at one of the photos. “After that make your way up to the top floor, that's where the main control room is, if Makarov is anywhere he’ll be there. If not, it's where we’ll find out where he is.” 

“Makarov will know we’re here is as soon as we take the place.” Johnny says. 

“That's why we have to act fast, as soon as we know where he is we move.” Price says.

“Unless he’s there.” Gaz says.

“He won’t be there.” you say. Price’s head snaps over to you. “I’ll be the pessimist.” You shrug. 

“We plan for the possibility he is there.” Price says.

“And the possibility he’s not.” Simon says. Looking at him now looming in the shadows. The person you saw in the bedroom just a few hours ago seems like a completely different person then the one hiding in the shadows right now. Ghost is a fitting name.

“Capture or kill?” Johnny asks, stepping forward. 

“Kill. He’s not getting away again.” Price says. Johnny likes that nodding at him and turning back to Kyle. You look round the room, they've been after this guy for a while. 

“Get ready, we’ll be leaving soon.” Price says, crossing his arms. Everyone starts to move and he looks over at you. “A word?” You swallow hard, nodding and walking round the table to him while everyone leaves the room. You’re nervous all of a sudden.

“Are you ready for this?” He asks quietly, bending down to speak to you closer. 

“Yes.” You say holding your ground. 

“It’s going to be dangerous, you could get hurt.”

“Are you trying to talk me out of this?” 

“No. I just need to know you’re ready.” he asks, you look up in his eyes.

“I’m ready.” You nod. He smiles for a second and you move to walk past him. He grabs your arm tight. “You do anything to hurt them and I swear to God I'll put a bullet in your head myself.” You look back digging your eyes into him. Why is he saying this now? Does he know? You pull your arm out his grip. 

“You wouldn’t be taking me if you didn’t trust me.” You say. He smiles. 

“Yeah, you’re right about that.” 

…

There’s thunder in the distance, a chill in the air. You’re all laid on a hill looking down at the back of the compound, there are lights on but no personnel. 

“Soap, we’re in position. How’s it looking on your end?” Price’s voice calls in your ear. 

“All clear Cap, we’re ready to move in.” Soap replies. The comps still sound strangely formal to you. 

“Okay, keep coms open, let us know when you’ve cut the security.” Price says as you all get to your feet. 

“Copy.” Soap says. You have an AR again, you’re still not used to the bigger weapons. Price’s warning is still ringing loud in your head. Why did he choose to say that now. Does he know what happened between you all? He is the captain, maybe he does. You follow Gaz and Soap down the hill to the back door. Gaz's foot slams into the door and it swings open. Soap goes in first and you follow behind him, you’re almost good at this now following his movements cleaning rooms like you’ve done it a hundred times before. 

Soap opens a door to another room, it’s warm you follow him inside. It looks like a maintenance room. Gaz comes back and stands in the doorway as Soap walks over to a control panel. You watch as he opens what looks like a fuzebox, he takes wire cutters off his vest and get's to work.

“Price, security systems are offline.” Soap’s voice comes into your ears as he closes the box.

“Copy, we’re moving in. Make your way to the control room.” Price says. You follow Gaz who leads, Soap following behind you. You run into people on the way but Gaz takes them down, the smell of gunpowder and blood is just something you need to get used to. You make it to the next floor, Gaz calls out your location as you move through the building. 

Each floor you go through you find more people. Gaz and Soap take them down, they’re way more confident firing off at people compared to your hesitation. You all turn the corner and run into Price and Ghost. They stack up on the door, this is the last place you need to check, if Makarov is going to be here he’s behind the door. 

Price nods and Ghost kicks the door open, it all happens quickly, voices ring out, shots ring out too. There's a pained groan as everyone goes into the room. You go over to the computer in the room, as soon as you move the mouse you see how corrupted it is.

“The whole thing’s been wiped.” You say. You turn to see Ghost and Price pull the man to his feet and throw him down in a chair. The man is shouting in Arabic through gritted teeth. You turn to start looking through papers with Soap trying to find anything you can to help. 

“Where’s Makarov?” Price asks. 

“Go to hell!” He shouts in English. You turn to see Ghost tying him to the chair. 

“Where is Makarov?” Price asks again. The man spits blood out on the floor, you see the wound on his shoulder. 

“I’ll never say!” Price sighs and Ghosts fist meets his face. It’s all starting to feel a little deja vu. You stick to what you’re doing, looking through the papers for anything useful.

“This was dated today. What does it mean?” Soap asks handing you a piece of paper. 

“It’s a termination order. They’re storing something here, it’s in the garage. Whatever it is, is being picked up tomorrow then the post will be shut down.” You say turning to look over at Price and Ghost. 

“What’s being stored?” Price asks. 

“It doesn’t say.” You reply, putting the paper down on the table.

“Okay, the three of you go check the garages.” Price says. Gaz leaves the room first and you follow him back through the building. Now it feels weird walking back through this place and over bodies, there weren't that many Al Qatala and now you know why, they probably got sent home days ago. 

“I thought you guys were keeping an eye on this place? You didn’t see them moving anything into the garages?” You ask Kyle ahead of you.

“No, only people moving in and out.” He replies. When you make it outside it’s starting to rain and the thunder sounds closer. 

“When did the message say they were coming?” Soap asks as tests the handle on the door, it’s locked.

“Tomorrow morning, it didn't have time.” You say.

“Strange.” Soap says, you frown looking over at him as Gaz kicks the door. 

“Why? There could have been multiple messages, we only found one.” You say shrugging. 

“Why though? They did such a good job at wiping the computer, shredding everything else why leave that one message?” Soap says. A pit forms in your stomach. You turn to look at him. 

“Probably just didn’t have time before we got there.” You swallow it away looking back at Gaz who gives the door one last kick and it swings open. Maybe he’s right, maybe you’re being too blasé about the whole thing, they are more experienced with this kind of stuff. 

You watch Gaz walk in and you move to follow him. 

“Holy shit.” You say when you walk in the room, the wall separating the two garages has been knocked through, there’s 2 trucks both of the beds look full and have been covered with tarp. It’s the ones you recognise from the CCTV footage Gaz showed Farah, the ones that came over the border a few days ago. 

Gaz walks over to one and pulls the tarp off to reveal missiles. 

“Holy shit.” Soap says. His hand runs over the American flag stamped on the metal. 

“American? These are ULF missiles.” You say.

“Were.” Gaz corrects you. 

“Price, we’ve got trucks full of American missiles here.” Soap says over the radio. There’s no reply, Gaz looks over frowning. 

“Price. Come in Price.” Soap says, you’re all already moving to the door before Soap even has a reply. 

“Ghost, Price come in.” Soap calls as you all jog back over to the main building. Now the pit in your stomach is back. What if they’re hurt? Fuck what if they’re dead? Soap and Gaz keep trying to call them as you sprint up the steps.  

“Price!” Gaz shouts as he sprints into the room. You make it in just after him, Price is rubbing his head using the chair to get back to his feet. The place looks like even more of a mess than before, stuff thrown everywhere a lamp knocked off the desk flashing on the floor. There had clearly been a struggle. 

“Where's Ghost?” Soap asks. 

“He went after him.” Price says, Soap rushes out the door.

“Go with him.” Gaz says, you nod following Soap down the hall. You have no idea where he could be but you follow Soap back down to the ground floor. You both freeze for a moment. Soap putting his hand up to stop you. You’re listening for noise. Soap is scanning down the corridors looking out the windows. 

You hear a gunshot.

“This way!” Soap shouts and sprints down a hall. It’s dark and there are no lights on. When you turn a corner you see an open door. The rain is coming down hard now, the thunder sounds like it’s right on top of you. 

You make it out and see Ghost wrestling with the guy on the floor. Soap slowly walks towards him with his weapon trained on them. You follow what he’s doing, keeping your distance, they’re rolling around on the floor, you can’t tell who has the upper hand. The man is clearly putting up a good fight. 

Soap looks like he wants to intervene. You hear a rumbling sound and the almost deafening sound of the rain on the garage roof. You’re not sure what to do, Ghost manages to push the guy off him and they end up on their sides. You think that's it Soap steps up to them until you see the glint off a knife. You don’t get chance to call it out the sound of crashing metal distracts you, you turn to the source of the noise seeing a truck barreling towards you. 

“Move!” Soap shouts as he grabs your vest pulling you out its path. You both fall to the ground as the car drives past, it stops just before crashing into the garages. Soap is firing at it before he’s even stood up. You get to your feet and click the safety off your weapon as people jump out the car. You see the weapons in their hands, you don’t care about shooting them now. It’s kill or be killed. 

Your shots are not great, you can see some of them hitting the car instead of people, you’ve only ever shot an AR once in basic training. It comes back to you though surprisingly, like riding a bike. You see someone fall to the floor, you hear shouting behind you and turn quickly to see Price and Gaz coming out the building. 

You breathe a sigh of relief at least it’s not all just down to you and your shit aim. You fire off another shot, this one actually hits one of their shoulders and he falls to the ground. You look over to where Ghost was fighting that man they’re not there anymore. There can’t be many more guys left, the car only has 5 seats. 

The shots stop, you follow behind Soap as he moves closer to the car. Its engine is still running, the doors swung open. You make it over, Soap kicks the bodies of the people on the floor. You make it round to the other side of the truck and Soap leans in, turning the engine off.

“Where’s Ghost?” Price asks. You look around, maybe he got up and hid from the gunfight. You don’t see the guy he was wrestling with either. There’s another gunshot. You all turn, raising your weapons towards the source. Price and Gaz sprint off in the direction first and you follow behind them. 

You rush round the corner of the garages and see Ghost stood there over a body putting his pistol back in its holster. 

“You solid?” Price asks as Ghost turns. He nods, you see him reach down pulling a knife out the mans shoulder, he wipes it on the grass before putting it back in his vest.

“What do we do now?” Soap asks.

“They know we were here, they will have told Makarov already.” Price says. You can hear the frustration in his voice. 

“They probably still want those missiles though.” Gaz says. You shiver, the adrenaline has worn off and you’re drenched. There’s a crack of thunder and the rain seems to pick up even harder. 

“Gaz is right. Even if they managed to get word out to Makarov, it’s a big stash he has just sitting here. He wouldn't want us taking it back to the ULF.” Soap says. 

“Okay. We’ll stay here tonight, follow them in the morning.” Price says. “Chances are they lead us straight to Makarov.” 

“And if they don’t come?” You ask. 

“They’ll come. They’ll want those missiles.” Price says. He sounds sure about it as he walks past you back to the building. You look over and see Ghost reaching down to pick the body up off the floor. Price orders you all to clear the place up. In case they didn’t manage to get the word out to Makarov, you don’t want to spook whoever is coming in the morning. 

It feels kind of pointless but you follow the orders nonetheless. When you’re done you wish you could take a shower, dry your sodden clothes. You’re not that lucky though, everyone seems to fall into a routine when you’re back inside and somewhat dry. Ghost collects everyone's weapons, he takes his time taking them apart and cleaning them like he’s done it a million times. He probably has. 

Gaz and Soap end up on clothes drying duty laying everything on radiators and cranking the heat up in the building to an almost uncomfortable level. You decide to go back up to the main control room and search the place for anything useful. It’s a longshot but you would rather be doing something then nothing. 

You end up trying to organise things, for some reason it makes you feel better. Most of the paperwork is out of date or they have done their best to censor or destroy everything. It’s probably fruitless until you come across a locked drawer. Now you want to get it open. There has to be a way to brute force it open. You take your knife out and jam it between the draws. You kneel down on the floor angling the knife down then pulling it towards you. 

It doesn’t seem to be doing anything. You try again using more strength growing out, pulling until it hurts. You let go of the knife now stuck in the drawer huffing and letting out a breath. 

“What are you doing?” Price asks. You look up over the desk at him. 

“There’s a locked drawer here.” You say pointing even though you know he can’t see. He comes in walking round the desk to see what you’ve been up to. You hear him chuckle when he sees the knife sticking out the drawer. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a small key.

“What you just had that this whole time.” You say tutting and reaching up to take it out his hand. 

“Ghost found it on his body.” He shrugs. You open the drawer pulling your knife out. You see the laptop straight away. You stand up, putting it on the desk and opening it. It turns on and there is no login. 

“What is it with all these people and never using passwords?” You say out loud. 

“Makes our job easier.” Price says. 

“Yeah also probably means there’s probably nothing important on it.” You say opening the documents folder. You sort them by most recent and open it. 

“What is it?” He asks as you scan over the document.

“Something about new orders. They’re moving, they know you’re after them.” You say as you continue reading. “They’re planning something too, something big.” 

“In Urzikstan?” He asks. You shake your head opening another document.

“It doesn’t say, this is a shipping manifest by the look of it. Sent from Moscow.” You close it down looking at the list. “There’s a lot here, it could take hours to sift through all this.”

“Can’t you do a keyword search or something?” He asks. 

“I don’t really know much about computers.” You sigh. 

“Gaz does, c’mon.” He says. You close the laptop lid, you expected him to have moved but he’s just stood there looking at you. You feel your heart pick up speed, he’s frowning at you for a second then his expression goes soft. 

“You did good today.” He says. You swallow the nerves.

“You don’t have to tell me that every time.” You say trying to lighten the mood. He hums, pressing his lips together and angling his body closer to you. 

“How was your time with Soap at the ULF base?” He asks, raising an eyebrow. He knows, he definitely knows and this is a test. Or maybe he doesn’t and he wants you to confess so he can send you back home. 

“Good.” You manage to say. You won’t say anything, you don’t want to get them into trouble. 

“I heard it went more than good.” He says in a low voice, his hand lands on your hip. You freeze in place, his touch is nice, his eyes are blue like Johnny’s, a deeper blue though. Maybe Johnny had already talked about what happened, he did say they were all together. You don’t know if you’re upset or relieved he maybe spoke about you. Price doesn’t seem mad, his eyes scanning round your face is body inching closer to you. 

“I’m only slightly annoyed,” he says. Great, here it comes, this is it, this is where he tells you to leave. You open your mouth ready for the string of apologies to come out. You don’t get a chance though as he leans down to kiss you. 

He takes your breath away, literally. His kiss is deep, his hands gripping your hips and pulling you close to him. You almost can’t believe it’s happening, his kiss is soft like Johnny, he’s slow too letting you control the speed. His beard tickles your face, you don’t mind though. Before you can help yourself your hand runs up his arm. 

He breaks from the kiss first, your heart is still pounding in your chest. He smiles at you. 

“You said you were annoyed.” You say swallowing, he chuckles, his hand coming up to cup your cheek.

“Yeah, that MacTavish got to you first.” He smiles.

next

Banners by plum98

[fixtionalpromises]

DISTANCED HIGH ۫ ⭒ׄ ⟡  𓈒 ⚜️🌸💨

Word ct: 1.4k𐙚

MDNI⦂| WARNINGS -> 𝒎𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒂𝒍 𝒎ᰔᩚ𝒔𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒃𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 |𝒇𝒆𝒎𝒂𝒍𝒆 𝒐𝒄 | 𝒎𝒂𝒍𝒆 𝒐𝒄| 𝒔𝒒ᰔᩚ𝒊𝒓𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 | 𝒘𝒉𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 | 𝒅𝒊𝒓𝒕𝒚 𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒌| 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒔𝒆 𝒌𝒊ᰔᩚ𝒌 | 𝒅𝒓𝒖ᰔᩚ 𝒖𝒔𝒆 -𝒘𝒆ᰔᩚ𝒅-| 𝒑𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒔ᰔᩚ𝒙, 𝒎ᰔᩚ𝒔𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒃𝒂𝒕𝒊ᰔᩚ𝒏 | 𝒄𝒍ᰔᩚ𝒕 𝒓𝒖𝒃𝒃𝒊𝒏𝒈 | 𝒄ᰔᩚ𝒎 𝒕𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 | 𝒔𝒐𝒍𝒐 | 𝒇𝒆𝒎| 𝒎𝒂𝒍𝒆 𝒅𝒐𝒎| (𝒑𝒐𝒄'𝒔) 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒄𝒓𝒊𝒑𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏, 𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔

Krystal watched as her boyfriend’s fingers moved rapidly across the black controller in which he held, tongue running across his bottom lip as he focused intently on his game. She couldn’t help but let her eyes plunge to his shirtless frame, mind drifting as she stared at the now healing scratch marks trailing down his chest.

She smirked slightly at the purple hickeys cluttering his collar, eyes charting each and every one of his tattoos, even though she’d seen them plenty of times before.

A low pulse fluttered beneath her lower stomach, butterflies gliding throughout her body as her mind veered. She bit her plush lips, gingerly, pencil stilled against the white paper laying on her desk.

As the match ended, Messiah glanced toward the camera, his view sweeping down the path of her neck, across the soft curve of her breasts, toward the smooth arch of her full thighs, a veined palm running across his waves while noting Krystal’s zoned out stature.

Messiah muzzled a groan, chuckling faintly at the memory of what had happened three nights before, while the soft sound of Janet Jackson’s: Would You Mind, played from their connected Spotify accounts.

Seeming to hear his low, alluring chuckle, Krystal’s eyes jerked back to the screen, lips pulling to the side to hide her smile.

“Tell me what you thinking bout baby”. His baby brown eyes glared into hers, fingers lifting to take another hit of the fresh blunt he’d lit without taking his eyes off her pretty brown frame.

Krystal licked her lips, eyes snapping away as she cleared her throat, clearly flustered.

Messiah leaned his head back, casually swirling the smoke from his nose before releasing a low chuckle.

Her thighs clamped, the previously weak pulse between them swelling in volume.

“I was just thinking about… — her slightly pudgy fingers encircling a black, sharpie pen, tapped against the desk — the amount of work I have left to do for this class,” She spoke meekly, eyes still fixated keenly on him as he took another drag of his blunt.

Messiah ran his eyes down her body, peering at her clenched thighs as he adjusted himself on the gaming chair he sat on. The thin, silver chain he wore shifted slightly, pulling her eyes toward it.

“Lemme see you, baby,” he spoke, swiping his tongue across his lips.

Without hesitancy, she pulled her thighs apart, relishing in the way he marveled at her body before pulling her baby pink, bow cladded panties to the side.

“Mmm”, a low grunt sailed through the mic, further encouraging her to widen the spread of her legs.

“Play wit it for me, pretty,” Messiah’s velvety baritone voice thundered through the mic, the blunt now gone as he effortlessly slid his bottom lip in his mouth, a single palm reaching down to grip the swelling bulge displayed in his sweats.

Krystal’s eyes dipped, hands moving swiftly to push all the notes on her desk to the side, chair scampering back before positioning her ankles atop of her desk.

Deep Brown eyes flickered around her dimly lit, pink stained room, thighs closing slightly as the cause of her ongoing mayhem studied her intently.

Cute.

“Don’t be shy mama, lemme see you”. Her legs widened again on impulse. Krystal didn’t know why she was nervous, especially since this was nowhere as sinful as the many things she’d done with him many times before.

Maybe it was due to the fact that her roommate, who was asleep in the suite across from hers, could parade in at any moment, requesting to borrow her notes from the week prior.

Her teeth seized grip of her lower lip at the taboo notion of being caught.

Baby pink, French tipped nails, trailed teasingly toward her inner thigh, breath deepening as she drew them up toward the large t-shirt that belonged to the man present on her phone, the homey cotton material bunching up as she tugged it up and tucked it beneath her chin.

Krystal’s right palm shifted toward her face, middle, and index finger curling forward as she stuck them both in her mouth, tongue rolling around them as if it were something else, as if it belonged to someone else.

Her eyes flickered toward the screen, watching as Messiah’s head reclined back in bliss while he grasped his clearly hard dick.

“Mm”, a small but guttural whine left her throat as she continued sucking her fingers, forcing them deeper before drawing it back in rhythm, until both fingers were dripping wet.

Not wasting anymore time, she reached downward, fingers swirling gently atop her engorged clit before descending downward to pull her pussy apart. She nibbled her lips, brows furrowing in pleasure as she gawked desperately at her boyfriend; Waiting, watching, praying…He could see her desperation and come over.

“Shittt baby, play wit ha’ fa’ me.” The coarse but intimately hoarse voice sent her mind into overdrive, fingers passing back up to circle stiff but slow swirls around her clit, just like he taught her, as she sighed. Krystal’s left hand reached up, palms grasping her heavy breasts as she squeezed, wishing it were the weight of someone else’s.

Shameful euphoria embraced her body, mouth hanging open as her eyes rolled back. She could barely gather the sound of anyone around her except the repetitive sloshing of her arousal and the rich groans of the man she wished were below her.

Her mind veered, fingers reaching down toward her slick entrance as she nudged them inside of herself before fucking herself with them.

A heavy pant escaped her lips, eyes fighting to stare at her man.

“Jus’ like that baby, lemme hear ha.”

Krystal’s intense desire for Messiah distorted her mind.

Head furnished with the image of his slick tongue between her plush thighs, soft lips embracing the fat of her pussy as he drank with so much passion, her ears rang.

She ached for the feel of his tongue flicking rapidly against her pierced clit, spit dripping down his chin as he sculpted his name inside her with his tongue, low eyes staring up at her as if he couldn’t get enough of the taste of her, the view of her, simply her.

Her fingers curled in sync with her pretty toes, heavy pants spurting from her body as she worked to scratch the itch only one man could reach.

“Open ya eyes mama, yeahhh, keep that shit on me”, Messiah panted, jaw clamping as his head tilted to the side.

“Shitt”, she squealed, fingers pulling out of herself to pat her clit rapidly.

“Messiah”. One whisper pumped with so much meaning.

‘Come over’, ‘I love you’, ‘I’m so close’, ‘I’m yours’.

Krystal watched Messiah's hand move, lengthy fingers wrapped in vice grip around his heavy, two toned length. His fist followed the slight curve of his dick, small bubbles of precum following his hand as he twisted it gently.

“Fuckk” , He hissed, dick twitching as he tried to match the pace of her fingers.

Krystal’s left hand tweaked her pebbled nipples, eliciting a throaty cry from the depths of her stomach as she sank her fingers back into herself, sweet, euphoria blanketing her body as slick cream painted her fingers.

Her thighs strained, toes curling and uncurling, head falling back, pretty, brown eyes, crossing as she came.

Her mouth opened in a mute scream as her body shuddered, fingers moving rapidly across her clit while she forced another puddle of squirt from her pussy.

Messiah watched, deep whimpers and groans spewing from his lips as he watched his girl fall apart.

“Jus like that baby, f- fuck, look at you, so fuckin pretty for me.” His right hand moved down to squeeze his balls as if she were there, teeth biting down onto his silver chain to muzzle his pitiful sounds.

The harmonies she was performing, the view of her pretty, bare, fucked out expressions, and his name on Krystal’s tongue was just enough to spur him over the edge, chain long forgotten as it slipped back to his chest.

She watched, releasing small whimpers as her hands palmed her breasts. Ass lifting from the chair in search of the one thing that could fill her up, the one thing that could satisfy her as she plunged into the arms of yet another, orgasm, this time announcing it to the empty room in a high-pitched squeal.

“I’m gonna cumm b- baby, fuckkk, yesss.”

The squelching of Krystal’s pussy, and the deep harmony of Messiah’s moans sashayed between the barriers of each other, legs jerking shut, shirt sinking back atop her thighs as she trembled, weakened from her release.

She puffed a sigh, a modest giggle swimming from her lips as she beamed at the high and tired man on her phone.

“I can’t believe we just did that,” she giggled, drawing her fingers up to her mouth to taste the tangy flavor she’d gotten used to while her lover watched.

--𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒚𝒊𝒔𝒎𝒆౨ৎ

Tags: @ilovefanfictionsm

[littlebirdygirlywriting]

Oh my god, sorry I’m late was so cute??????

How about a Drabble to go with that from the proposal? They’re chasing a storm and everything is like always. And they’re just standing watching the storm in the distance, the wind whipping around them and he looks at her and just knows he wants to marry her so he goes just down on one knee and asks her. (It also makes an epic video for the channel and gets millions of views lmao)

“The Fans Are Going To Love This!”

Twisters Masterlist (this piece can be read as a prequel to “Sorry, I’m Late,” but it doesn’t have to be)

Pairing: Tyler Owens x Fem!Reader

Summary: Watching a distant storm together, Tyler decides he’s done waiting to ask a very important question.

Author’s Note: I just realised this now makes two Twisters fics I’ve written involving a proposal. Oops! Oh well. 😇 This is (so far) my last fluffy request before delving into some angst. But I absolutely LOVED this idea! The picture came so clearly to me, I just had to give it life. (Yes, it was heavily inspired by Tyler watching Kate in that absolute beauty of a scene… shhhh. 🤫)

Warnings: Fluff (like usual lately, lol). Reader is described as having hair long enough to blow in the wind. I think that’s it!

Word Count: 738 (send help, it was supposed to be a drabble. 💀)

———————————————————————————

Swirling grey storm clouds accumulate in the distance, thunder rumbling through the earth. Sweeping winds blow your hair wildly about your face, and Tyler is captivated.

No surprise, really. He’s been captivated by you since the first time he saw you, striding up to the team in the middle of a crowded parking lot, thermos and backpack in hand, asking to join them on a chase.

The exhilaration radiating from you at the end of that day was intoxicating, warmed further by the beers everyone had thrown back in a seedy bar a mile from the motel.

Walking you to your room, Tyler debated whether or not to say something—anything—about you joining the team more indefinitely.

He was just about to speak when your lips crashed onto his.

And the rest, they say, is history.

Your gasp drags him away from his musings. “It’s beautiful,” you murmur, camera up to your eyes, finger clicking rapidly.

Tyler smiles, taking in the sight of you before him.

He couldn’t agree more.

Sunlight frames your body like a halo, the angel come down to earth he’d always wanted, but never felt he deserved.

Affection warms his heart at the thought. Now’s the time.

“Tyler!” You cry, shouting over your shoulder, camera still pressed to your face. “Tyler, do you see—“ But your voice dies on the wind the second you turn around.

There’s a rustle from the RV behind him. Then, a gasped “Oh my God!”

Knee digging into the gravel, tiny black box cradled in his hands, Tyler watches as the shock on your face slowly drains away to disbelief.

“No… Tyler, you can’t—I don’t—“

Tears form a defense in your eyes, and you blink, battling them away.

Your name drifts off his lips, vulnerable like a prayer, his heart shaking like a leaf within his chest. Blown by the very winds around them.

He should list your strengths, your attributes, every miniscule detail he adores about you. Hell, at the very least he should use your full name. But instead, the only words to leave his lips are a desperate, “I love you. Baby, I’ve loved you since the first time I laid eyes on you. I knew then, and I know now… you’re the storm I want to chase for the rest of my life.” He fumbles with the box, revealing the small, elegant diamond Boone and Dexter had helped him pick out months ago. “Will—” his throat tightens, anxiety pounding in his blood. “Sweetheart, will you marry me?”

Your tears breach the barrier, cresting and rolling in fat droplets down your cheeks. Tyler watches as your lips tremble, mouth attempting to form words without a sound. Finally, the word he’s been holding his breath for since that first night in a seedy, run-down bar, drinks flowing and tongues wagging. The word he’s on one knee for now, praying will leave your mouth.

“Yes.”

It’s so quiet, barely audible over the ever-increasing winds. But the look on your face tells Tyler everything he needs to know.

Sweet ecstasy of relief floods his entire body.

“Yeah?” he questions, just to be sure.

A wide grin splits across your face, and you step closer, arms snaking around his shoulders.

“Tyler Owens,” you lean in close, lips inches away from his own, until he’s breathing your breath. “If you’re the last storm I chase for the rest of my life, I’ll die the happiest woman in the world.”

He pulls you into a kiss, your lips soft and supple beneath his. Your fingers tangle in the ends of his hair.

Whooping and hollering startles you both out of the kiss, the rest of the Wranglers descending like vultures. They talk over themselves, tripping over their tongues.

“It’s about time, T! What took you so long?” Dani.

“Congratulations! I dibs maid of honour!” Lily.

“The fans are going to love this!” Boone, stepping closer to the two of you, camera in hand.

Tyler turns to him, the lens now pointed directly in his face. You shift in his arms, waving shyly to the fans. A blush the colour of a dying sunset rises starkly on your cheeks.

“You think so, Boone?” Tyler grins, cheekily. Then, without thinking, he’s grabbing your chin, slowly descending into a long, deep kiss, pulling the ring out of the box and slipping it on your finger to the whoops and cheers of the rest of the gang.

[romerona]

All Y/N ever wanted to do was sing her songs and be free. Yet somehow, after offering to pay for the meal of a certain boy in a straw hat she finds herself causing havoc through the East Blue.

Masterlist - Next.

Trigger warning: canon violence. Word count: 10K

A/N: The only thing I will be describing about Y/N is her hair colour. Everything else you can imagine her as you wish.

Disclaimer: The songs I will be using in this fic aren't mine bc I have 0 creativity. I'm sorry.

If you want to know, what the melody of this chapter song is like, The River by Daisy Jones and the Six is the inspiration.

"Hit the deck!"

Y/N barely had a moment to brace herself before the thunderous explosion erupted across the deck of the Going Merry. The cannonball struck with a force that rattled her bones, the shockwave sending her sprawling as she dropped to the floor, clutching her head. The wood of the railing splintered and cracked under the impact, filling the air with the sharp scent of burning timber and saltwater. Pieces of the ship’s railing exploded outward, shards of wood spinning through the air like deadly projectiles. She flinched as one of the splinters sliced across her cheek, leaving a warm trickle of blood in its wake.

Disoriented, she felt the world tilt and sway as the ship rocked from the blast, and she struggled to get her bearings. Gritting her teeth, she pushed herself up on trembling legs.

"Everybody okay?" Luffy asked, his voice carrying over the chaos, unshaken by the cannon fire.

"I think so," Nami replied, her breath coming out a bit shaky.

Y/N wiped the blood from her cheek. "Define ‘okay.’ If it means mildly traumatized but still standing, then yeah, I'm peachy."

Usopp, on the other hand, looked like he’d just seen his life flash before his eyes. "No! Not okay! Not even close to okay!"

Luffy barely glanced at him before turning to the Marine ship in the distance, his finger pointing toward the enemy vessel with a gleam in his eye. "Usopp, fire back at them!"

Usopp’s eyes widened in horror, and he shook his head, his voice pitching. "Or, how about we sail away as fast as we can?"

Y/N nodded, jumping on Usopp’s idea immediately, "Now, that sounds like a solid plan. Strategic retreat, y’know? Let’s live to panic another day!"

Luffy looked between them, clearly baffled like they’d just suggested something completely outlandish. "Run from the Marines? No. Never! Nami, trim the… the sail thing."

"Let’s sink their ship," Luffy told Ussop who had made his way next to the straw hat boy, and both started to prepare the cannon.

Y/N's eyes widened, and she shot a desperate glance at Nami. “Are you hearing this insanity? Oh, shi- look at them!”

Nami spared her a look, it was obvious her patience was wearing thin as she glared at Luffy. "We don’t have time. They’re stealing our wind. If they pull up alongside us, we’re finished."

"You’re the navigator," Luffy said, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world, while he and Usopp continued their preparations. "Do something."

Nami, fighting to keep her composure, took a deep breath. Her eyes flashed to Zoro and then to Y/N, as if by instinct, as she ordained, "Sheet in and hard to port!"

Y/N, groaning in defeat, moved toward the ropes. “Fantastic. Nothing like outrunning doom while trying not to strangle myself with these ropes.”

"Which way is port?" Zoro asked, his brow furrowed in confusion, making Y/N stop in her tracks and give him a look that could melt steel.

She nearly burst into tears right then and there.

“It’s on your left, Zoro!” she exclaimed, grabbing his arm and hauling him toward the ropes. “You do know left from right… don’t you? Is important to me that you know that.”

Zoro didn’t even bother to answer, letting Y/N pull him along as they hurried to execute Nami’s orders. But before they could even begin to unravel the ropes, the unmistakable sound of cannonballs rolling across the deck made them freeze.

For a beat, Y/N just stared at the incoming cannonballs as they tumbled to her feet. Her mind was blank and her gut twisting into knots. Then she pursed her lips, nodding slowly. "We're fucked."

Suddenly, a deep, booming voice of the vice admiral rang out across the open sea, slicing through the chaos like a hot knife through butter.

"Pirate vessel, by order of the Marines, lower your sails and submit to my authority."

Y/N’s body froze at the sound of the vice admiral’s booming voice. It pierced the chaos around her, and for a brief, suffocating moment, everything else disappeared. Her heart skipped a beat as a familiar, overwhelming sense of dread flooded her chest. Her breath caught, shallow and rapid, as memories—unbidden and sharp—began to surface like a nightmare she couldn’t outrun.

Flashes of her childhood flooded her vision: Marines with their cold faces set in determination as they hunted down her people. The cries of her father, the way he had fought to protect her, only to be torn away. Her small hands, gripped her father’s as they fled, knowing too well that escape was never truly an option. She could still feel the harsh net, still hear their voices—shouting commands, laughing as they dragged her father to his death. Her father... she could almost feel the warmth of his hand slipping from hers as he pleaded for her to take her sister and swim away.

A chill ran down her spine, and Y/N’s vision began to blur, the salty air thick in her lungs. The tightness in her chest grew, each breath more difficult to take. Her hands trembled, and she felt like she was back there, trapped in that terrified little girl’s body again, powerless and afraid. Her body was screaming at her to flee, to jump off the ship and swim far away, away from the threat of the Marines. But that was the panic talking. That was the fear, the survivor’s instinct, clawing at her.

No. Don’t be that scared child again. You’re not her anymore.

But the weight of the vice admiral’s words felt suffocating, like a trap closing in around her. The fear was real, deep-rooted, and it pressed against her chest like an iron band. Her mind screamed at her to run, to escape, but her body refused to obey. She wasn’t sure if it was fear or the crushing weight of the past that kept her frozen in place. All she could do was fight the urge to break down, to fall apart right then and there. The panic, the memories—they were all crashing into her at once, and there was nothing she could do to push them away.

Every muscle in her body tensed, her throat constricted, and all she could do was cling to the edge of the ship until the loud shout of Luffy broke her haze.

"Never!" His voice carried across the water with unmatched conviction and defiance.

From the Marine vessel, the vice admiral stepped forward with surprising agility for his age, his steely eyes narrowing as he grabbed one of the heavy cannonballs.

With a grunt that could’ve been heard a mile away, the old marine hurled the cannonball with a surprising amount of strength, sending it rocketing through the air toward the Going Merry. The cannonball cut through the wind, heading straight for them with deadly accuracy. For a moment, Y/N froze, watching the projectile fly toward them, her heart in her throat. This is it, she thought. I'm dead.

But before she could even fully process it, Luffy, with a sudden lurch, made his stomach expand to ridiculous proportions, ballooning out until he looked like he was going to burst. The cannonball collided with his belly with a dull thud, bouncing harmlessly off him before it ricocheted off Luffy’s rubbery body and hurtled back toward the Marine ship. Y/N’s eyes widened as it made its way back to them, and with a sickening crash, it collided directly with one of the mastiffs on the Marine ship, knocking it down with a loud crash.

For a moment, Y/N could only blink, stunned into silence. Then, she exhaled slowly, her breath coming out in a soft whoosh. “How the hell...?”

"That was amazing!" Usopp exclaimed, his face lighting up with awe. "You saved us, Luffy!"

Nami, still catching her breath, gave Luffy an incredulous look. "You didn’t tell me you could do that,"

"I didn’t know I could!" Luffy admitted, right before Usopp lunged at him, wrapping him in a hug laughing and bouncing around in a strange mix of relief and victory.

“Good going, Stud!” Y/N let out an airy chuckle, the sound of it light and almost free as she finally allowed the tension to slip away, watching them celebrate their unlikely victory. She leaned against the railing, her body trembling ever so slightly as she realized how close she’d been to falling apart. The adrenaline was wearing off, and she could feel her legs threaten to give way beneath her. She closed her eyes, pressing her palms against the cool wood, taking a slow, steadying breath, taking in the scent of the sea.

“Nami, get us out of here!” Luffy called to Nami.

“On it. Let’s disappear,” Nami replied, her voice laced with determination as she took control, hands steady on the wheel.

With a swift pull, she guided the Going Merry into position, adjusting the sails to catch what little wind they had left. The ship surged forward, slicing through the waves as if it were as eager to escape as they were and headed into a misty, thick and impenetrable cloud, like a veil hiding them from the Marines.

“Hey,” came Zoro’s monotone voice, causing Y/N to flinch just a little. It was subtle, but she couldn’t hide the sharp jolt in her chest. Embarrassed, she quickly masked her discomfort, forcing a wide, confident smile as if nothing was wrong.

“Oh, Zoro, hey,” she said, her voice smooth but her heart still racing slightly.

Zoro’s eyes remained as indifferent as ever, but they narrowed just a fraction, the skepticism in them barely perceptible.

“You good?” he asked, his tone flat, but there was a hint of concern buried beneath the surface.

Y/N froze for a moment, caught off guard by his directness. She flashed him a playful smirk, hoping to deflect without showing any sign of vulnerability. “Worried about little ol’ me, hot shot? Didn’t think you had a sweet side."

Zoro’s expression didn’t change, but whatever trace of concern had been there moments ago was now gone. Y/N, half-expecting him to leave her be—because, honestly, he wasn’t exactly known for his warm and fuzzy bedside manner—thought her flippant attitude would have been enough to successfully send him packing. Yet, to her surprise (and slight dismay), he stayed. He simply crossed his arms and stared at her with that unreadable intensity.

Y/N’s smirk faltered, the confidence she wore like armor wavering under the weight of his unrelenting stare. There was something unnerving about how much attention he was paying to her but refused to let it show fully. Instead, she waved a hand dismissively, her voice light and playful. “Do not fret, it’s just a scratch. My face will be back to its former glory in no time.”

Zoro didn’t even blink. “That’s not what I’m talking about,”

But Y/N did—several times, rapid and involuntary, her mind faltering as his words struck a nerve she wasn’t ready to face. The tightness in her chest flared again, and she fought to push away the remnants of panic still twisting in her gut. It was relentless, simmering just beneath the surface, refusing to let go. The memories clawed at her mind—the sight of those Marines, the booming voice of authority—it all came rushing back too fast, too vividly, too... loud.

Her smirk faltered, morphing into something softer, a practised smile. She had perfected this act over the years. No one could know. No one could see how much of her was still haunted, how much of her was a cracked foundation barely held together by sheer will.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about, Zoro,” she said lightly, tilting her head just enough to feign nonchalance. “I’m fine. Really.”

And without waiting for an answer or even a flicker of something that could resemble an expression, she manoeuvred around him. Her smile remained firmly in place, but her pace quickened as she walked away, leaving Zoro standing there. She made her way to Nami, positioning herself beside her as though nothing had happened, knowing the proximity to the pretty navigator would steady her fraying nerves. Like her steady rock.

Soon, the Going Merry was swallowed by the dense mist, the fog thick and impenetrable, wrapping around them like a heavy shroud. The usual brightness of the open sea was replaced by an eerie stillness, the world around them muffled and grey. No one could see more than a few feet in any direction.

"How’s the ship look?" Nami asked, her voice cutting through the silence when she saw the swordsman return from checking the damage.

"Broken railing. Minor damage," Zoro said as she set herself next to her.

Y/N hums in encorgament. "Could've been worse."

"Could’ve been better," Nami muttered, her tone sour.

Usopp squinted into the dense fog, searching for any sign of the Marines. "Can’t see the Marines anywhere,"

Y/N glanced over the side of the ship, also squinting into the dense fog. "Can't see anything at all, I think you mean."

"What we need is a place to lay low and wait out any reinforcements they send after us," Nami said, her voice already tinged with frustration as she glanced down at the map in her hands. "But my charts are useless in this fog."

Y/N raised an eyebrow, her tone dry. "Great. So we’re basically sailing blind."

"What did Luffy say?" Zoro wondered aloud.

Usopp, squinting through the fog, replied, "He’s on the bow. He hasn’t said anything since we hightailed it out of there."

"Well, somebody needs to talk to him. About this and that other thing." Nami’s voice was laced with frustration as she turned to the others, clearly not thrilled with the situation.

"What other thing?" Zoro asked, confusion flickering across his face.

Y/N shot him a look—a mix of disbelief and exasperation, her expression practically screaming "Seriously?" She wondered how could someone be so perceptive and yet be as oblivious as a plank. For a fleeting moment, she even wondered if his cluelessness was some sort of elaborate act.

"Oh, gee, I wonder," Nami replied, her voice thick with dry sarcasm before she deadpanned. "The vice-admiral-of-the-Marines-is-my-grandfather thing."

Y/N pursed her lips, a mixture of emotions swirling inside her—understanding, skepticism, fear, and anger. The fear and anger tried to take root, but ultimately, understanding won out, its shadow softening the rest.

"Oh, that," Usopp said, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "Yeah, I don’t really know the guy that well…"

Y/N sighed, crossing her arms as she turned to Nami. "And let’s think that maybe there’s a reason why he didn’t tell us," she said, her voice measured, though the tension behind it was undeniable.

Nami shot her a look, her eyes narrowing in a way that could only mean she wasn’t buying it. "But he should’ve. This is something that affects all of us."

Zoro grunted, rolling his eyes. "Doesn’t seem like a big deal."

"You’re his first mate," Nami shot back, rolling her eyes. "Kind of seems like that falls under your job description, hmm?"

"Fine," he muttered, clearly not thrilled about it.

It took all of five seconds—barely enough time to blink—before he turned right back around and rejoined them. Y/N raised a brow, the corner of her mouth twitching in amusement. Now this was the Zoro she knew—the one who avoided digging deeper into anything if it required more than minimal effort. The other unsettling attentive version of him she’d dealt with earlier? Long gone.

“He seems fine to me,” Zoro said flatly, as though that was the final word on the matter.

"Did you even ask him?" Nami asks in exasperation.

“Hey!” Luffy suddenly called out, his voice cutting through their conversation and pulling everyone’s attention to him. The group turned to see him standing at the bow, sniffing the air like a bloodhound on a trail. His face was unusually focused, which immediately made Y/N sceptical. “You guys smell that?”

Y/N’s curiosity got the better of her. She hesitated, then took a subtle sniff, her brows knitting together when she couldn’t pick up anything out of the ordinary. “Smell what?

“There’s something on the breeze,” Luffy said, his voice uncharacteristically serious as he sniffed again. “Smells like… butter... Soy sauce... And meat.”

Y/N raised an eyebrow, sharing a look with the others, searching for a second opinion. “That’s… oddly specific,”

Usopp, still looking around in confusion, squinted at the air. "I can’t smell anything,"

"Think he has brain damage?" Zoro muttered under his breath, watching Luffy sniff the air like a hound on a scent trail.

Nami sighed heavily, her voice tinged with exhaustion. "I think that every day."

Usopp, ever the voice of reason- or what passed for it to everyone else- said. "Look, Luffy, playing follow the smell is fun and all, but we really gotta get out of this fog. We’re sitting ducks in here."

"I know, but I smell food, which means there’s someone somewhere cooking!" Luffy reasoned, as if that simple fact somehow made perfect sense to him. He was grinning ear-to-ear, oblivious to the crew's growing frustration.

“Seriously?” Nami groaned, pinching the bridge of her nose before throwing her hands up in defeat. “Of course it’s about food.”

Y/N pursed her lips, her gaze shifting between the thick fog and Luffy’s eager, determined expression. She let out a small sigh and turned to Nami with a shrug. “Hey, it’s better than wandering aimlessly, right? At least his nose has a purpose.”

Nami muttered something under her breath about “purposefully leading us into trouble” but threw her hands up as she headed back to the helm. “Fine, whatever- just tell me where to go."

"Five degrees starboard!" Luffy shouted confidently, settling himself on the lamb’s head like it was some kind of throne. He sniffed the air once more, brow furrowing. "No! No! Three degrees back to port."

"Add food to the equation and suddenly he knows how to navigate."

Y/N, who had been bored staring into the mist, suddenly perked up as she caught sight of something faint, something slowly beginning to take shape. She squinted, her curiosity piqued. "What is that?"

“Add food to the equation, and suddenly he knows how to navigate,” Nami muttered under his breath, earning a soft chuckle from Y/N.

Y/N, who had been idly staring into the mist with growing boredom, suddenly straightened as her eyes caught sight of something faint—something slowly taking shape ahead of them. She squinted, her curiosity sparking. “What is that?”

“Is that land?” Zoro asked, his voice tinged with skepticism as he strained to make out the blurry outline in the distance.

Nami frowned, her brow furrowing in concentration. “It can’t be. There aren’t any islands anywhere near here.”

“What’s a… Baratie?” Usopp asked, his voice a mix of confusion and awe as he read the glowing red letters that seemed to hover like a lighthouse through the mist.

The crew fell silent as the shape came into sharper focus, the mist parting just enough to reveal something massive—a grand, almost otherworldly ship. Its design was like nothing they’d ever seen, whimsical and imposing all at once.

“Is that… a fish boat?” Y/N murmured, her eyes widening as she took in the strange structure. It wasn’t just a ship; it was a spectacle.

The ship continued to take shape, now unmistakably resembling a gigantic wooden fish, complete with intricately carved fins and a tail that seemed almost alive in its fluid design. Y/N’s eyes wandered to the collection of ships docked along its sides, their masts swaying gently with the movement of the water. The group stood in stunned silence, the sheer scale and craftsmanship of the structure leaving them momentarily speechless.

As the Going Merry docked alongside the Baratie, the eerie, solitary impression they had from afar melted away, replaced by a vibrant, bustling scene. The docks were alive with movement and sound. Sailors worked with practiced ease, tying ropes and securing their ships. Merchants were unloading crates filled with who-knew-what, their voices rising above the clatter of goods hitting the dock.

The air carried the faint aroma of sizzling food mixed with sea salt, teasing Y/N’s senses as she caught hints of laughter and animated chatter drifting from the fish-shaped structure itself. What once seemed mysterious and isolated now felt impossibly alive, like the heart of some hidden, seafaring world. Y/N couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe—and a twinge of curiosity—at the liveliness surrounding them.

As the crew gathered on the deck and observed the bustling activity around the fish-shaped ship.

"Everyone's heading to that fish ship," Zoro remarked, curiosity evident in his tone.

Y/N, leaned over the railing, her awe evident as she stared at the grand fish-shaped vessel below. “It’s huge,”

“That smell,” Nami said thoughtfully, a small hum escaping her lips as the aroma of sizzling food reached her. “I think this place is a restaurant.”

"Then I know what we're gonna do next," Luffy declared, his eyes lit up with excitement.

Nami interjected, "Disguise the ship so the Marines can't find us?"

Y/N nodded in agreement. "That's a good idea."

"Sail back to Syrup Village, where it's safe?" Usopp offered, his tone equally hopeful, clutching at the last thread of safety.

But Luffy, grinning from ear to ear, announced, "Nah, let's eat!"

He turned on his heel and made to bolt toward the docks, but Y/N was faster. She grabbed his elbow, stopping him in his tracks. “Luffy, wait. We can't go in-"

Luffy turned to her, his grin faltering into a slight frown, his confusion evident as he leaned closer, their faces almost touching. “What? Why not? It’s right there—all we have to do is walk in.”

“Sure, we can,” Y/N began, her eyes flicking down to his less-than-impressive attire with a small, knowing smirk. “But not dressed like this.”

Luffy blinked, his confusion deepening.

“You’re handsome, stud, and yeah, you’ve got charm." Y/N said, patting his arm playfully, “But trust me, as a former waitress, there are places where you have to look the part. And I can tell this is one of them.”

She gestured toward the lively crowd below, some of whom were dressed a little better than the ragtag crew of the Going Merry. Luffy frowned, glancing down at himself as if only now realizing his outfit wasn’t exactly fine dining material.

“So... we’re dressing up to eat?” he asked, clearly baffled.

“Exactly,” Y/N said, smiling at his adorable cluelessness. “And trust me, it’s gonna be worth it.”

Luffy stared at her for a beat before finally shrugging, his grin returning. “Okay! As long as we get to eat after!”

"That fish better have a bar," Zoro mutters as they all make their way to their room for a scrub and a change.

Y/N slipped into a dress that felt just right for the occasion—simple, but with just enough flair to make it special. The fitted top was decorated with delicate floral embroidery that gave it a soft, romantic feel, while the flowing skirt had an uneven, handkerchief hemline that added a touch of fun. The thin straps made it feel light and easy, perfect for the moment. It was the kind of dress that hugged her in all the right places but still felt comfortable, striking that perfect balance between casual and a little bit sexy.

Y/N smirked as she caught her reflection in the mirror, tilting her head to admire her handiwork. Her white, silver hair was styled into a loose, effortless updo, with a few soft strands artfully framing her face, giving her that perfect mix of elegance and I woke up like this charm. A touch of makeup—just enough to highlight her natural features—brought the whole look together: a faint blush on her cheeks, a sleek wing of eyeliner, and a hint of gloss that made her lips look positively kissable.

“Well, don’t I just look like a walking snack,” she quipped, turning to admire the sway of the dress. “Kaya’s got taste, I’ll give her that. I owe her at least three thank-you calls and a bottle of wine.”

With that, she spun on her heel, ready to turn heads.

“You all deeply disappoint me,” Y/N announced dramatically as she joined the others, her eyes scanning their outfits with a look of sheer disapproval. Their clothes were better than before, sure, but it was painfully obvious that she was the only one who had truly put in any effort. She placed a hand on her hip, shaking her head as if she couldn’t believe what she was seeing.

“Tragic. All of you,” she added with a flourish, her tone dripping with mock indignation, before muttering under her breath, “I can’t believe I have to carry this entire group's sense of style on my back.”

Luffy and Usopp glanced down at their outfits, their frowns deepening. Luffy was wearing a red shirt and overalls—like he’d just walked off a farm—and Usopp had decided to rock pants, a coat, and, for some unfathomable reason, no shirt. Someone help me, Y/N thought. Zoro, as expected, looked exactly the same as always—zero effort given, zero surprises there. Nami, at least, looked decent. Not great, but decent. Y/N clicked her tongue, shaking her head like a disappointed mother.

Nami noticed her scrutiny and rolled her eyes, crossing her arms. “Oh, please, Y/N. This place is crawling with ugly pirates. We don’t have to look like royalty for them.”

Y/N smirked, her voice dripping with playful sarcasm as she adjusted the strap of her dress. “Sure, Nami, because when I think of my life goals, ‘blending in with ugly pirates’ is right at the top of the list.” She gave the group a once-over, then added with a mock sigh, “Listen, just because the bar is on the floor doesn’t mean I have to trip over it. Standards, darlings. Standards.”

"Can we just go now?" Zoro said to which Luffy nods excitedly.

She let out an exaggerated sigh, smoothing her hand over her dress like she was trying to gather the patience to deal with them. Finally, she gave the group a look of mock exasperation, her tone dripping with playful judgment.

“Alright, come on, let’s get this over with before I change my mind and pretend I don’t know any of you.” She started walking ahead, throwing a cheeky glance over her shoulder. "Be good, you’re all one embarrassing moment away from being disowned."

As they strolled through the bustling docks, Y/N walked with her head held high and a confident grin tugging at her lips. She could feel the stares following her, lingering longer than usual. Did it feel good to be admired? Absolutely—it always did. But she wasn’t naive; she knew exactly why they were staring. Her appearance, her aura, her very presence practically demanded attention. That’s one of her traits as a siren, after all. 

Still, the attention was something she chose to brush off… mostly. Every so often, her smirk widened just a fraction, a subtle acknowledgement that yes, she knew she was turning heads, and yes, she was enjoying it more than she’d ever admit.

“Wow, people do stare at you,” Usopp muttered, his wide eyes darting around the dock as merchants and pirates. His tone was half amazement, half bewilderment.

Y/N’s grin widened, a mischievous glint in her eye as she smoothly linked her arm with his.

“Why, yes, they do,” she replied with a playful lilt. “Care to be my arm candy for the evening, champ? Strictly for appearances, of course.”

Usopp’s cheeks flushed a deep crimson, and he let out a nervous chuckle.

“I… uh… okay,” he stammered, trying to muster a confident smile.

Y/N leaned in slightly, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “Relax, Usopp. Just think of it as adding another daring tale to your collection.”

He straightened up a bit, a spark of pride flickering in his eyes.

“Yeah, I can do that,” he said, more to himself than to her.

As they continued down the dock, Y/N couldn’t help but smirk.

“Besides,” she added with a playful wink, “who wouldn’t want to be seen with the most dashing slinger here?”

Usopp smirked, his chest puffing out as her confidence seemed to spark something in him. With his newfound swagger, he added an exaggerated strut to his step. He looked as though he’d just been crowned king of the dock.

Y/N chuckled and glanced back at Nami, who was trailing behind with Luffy, who was looking at everyone and everything all at once and Zoro, who looked like he rather be anywhere else. The orange-haired girl rolled her eyes, but there was a trace of amusement on her face that betrayed her usual exasperation. Y/N shot her a playful grin.

“Want to be my other arm candy?” Y/N teased, holding out her free arm with an exaggerated flourish. Her grin was as charming as it was mischievous. “I promise, you’ll steal just as many stares as me.”

“Pass,” she said, though the playful tone in her voice made it clear she was more amused than annoyed. “I think you’ve got enough attention for all of us,”

Y/N chuckled, turning back with a shrug. “Suit yourself, but you’re missing out on being part of the most glamorous trio this dock has ever—and will ever—see.”

She barely finished her sentence when a voice cut through the noise of the docks, calling her name.

“Y/N?”

Her entire body froze, the familiar voice making her breath catch in her throat. She snapped her head toward the source, her eyes widening in disbelief.

“Tallen?” she whispered, barely able to get the word out.

Standing a few feet away was a man with a face she’d never forgotten—dimples carved into his handsome smile, a warmth in his eyes that brought a rush of memories crashing down on her. The sight of him stole her breath.

“Oh, the stars, it’s you!” she exclaimed, a wide, joyous smile breaking across her face as she let go of Usopp without a second thought. Before anyone could react, she all but ran into the man’s arms, colliding with him like a wave meeting the shore. He wrapped her in a hug so firm and familiar it nearly brought tears to her eyes.

“Sweet Y/N,” Tallen murmured, his voice soft and steady, the way she remembered.

“It’s been too long,” she whispered, holding him tighter, her voice trembling with emotion.

“Far too long,” he agreed, his arms squeezing her just a bit more.

Y/N swallowed the lump in her throat, leaning into the hug as if letting go would break her. 

“I’m glad to see you alive,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

“I’m glad to see you alive,” Tallen replied softly, his words carrying the weight of shared history and loss. He was her fellow Siren—one of the last few, the dwindling remnants of their kind.

They lingered for a moment longer, their arms reluctantly falling away as they both seemed hesitant to break the connection. The warmth of the embrace lingered, but reality began to creep back in.

That’s when it happened—a deliberate clearing of a throat. Nami.

Y/N blinked, suddenly aware of her surroundings again. She turned to see Nami standing there with an arched brow, arms crossed, and a look that was equal parts curiosity and amusement. Behind her, Usopp was gaping like he’d just witnessed the twist ending of a great story, and Zoro, as usual, looked unimpressed but faintly intrigued and Luffy who had a trademark smile on his face yet curious. 

“Oh,” Y/N said, laughing awkwardly as she brushed a strand of hair behind her ear. “Right. Uh… introductions.” She glanced at Tallen and back to them. “Everyone, this is Tallen. He’s…” Her voice trailed off for a moment, her smile faltering slightly before she finished, “He’s an old friend.”

Tallen, ever the charmer, gave a polite nod to the group, his dimples deepening as he grinned. “Pleasure to meet you all.“ 

Before anyone had a chance to properly introduce themselves, Y/N cut in, her tone light but firm.

“I’ll meet you lot inside, okay?” she said, flashing them a quick smile.

Luffy looked between them, and after a second, he nodded grinning. “Okay, I’ll save you a seat.” 

Usopp muttered something about not wanting to be left behind and followed after Luffy. Nami lingered for a moment, giving Y/N a long look before sighing and heading toward the entrance.

Zoro, as usual, barely reacted, simply grunting, “Don’t take too long,” before following the others.

“Noted,” Y/N replied with a grin, already turning back to Tallen.

Y/N’s eyes softened as she looked at Tallen, a flood of emotions washing over her. The last time she’d seen him was about three or four years ago, and while he still looked very much the same, there was a new air of maturity about him—just enough to make her realize how much time had passed.

“It’s really you,” Y/N murmured, her voice tinged with disbelief and relief, as though she still wasn’t entirely convinced this moment was real.

“In the flesh,” Tallen replied with a nod, his own expression softening. He gave her a once-over, his lips curving into a teasing smile. “You look older.”

Y/N let out a huff of laughter, lightly pushing him on the shoulder. “And you still have the subtlety of a cannonball.”

Her playful smile faltered slightly as her eyes searched his face, her voice quiet but hopeful. “What about the others? Lyan, Kiku, Ren? Are they still—”

“Yes,” Tallen interrupted gently, his tone steady and reassuring. “They’re here with me.”

Y/N let out a deep sigh of relief, her shoulders visibly relaxing. “Where?”

“Probably asleep in the room on our ship,” Tallen explained, a small, proud smile tugging at his lips. “We had a late-night performance last night.”

Y/N’s eyes widened, a grin breaking across her face. “You got a ship?”

“A small one,” he said, trying (and failing) to hide just how proud he was. “But yes, we did.”

Without hesitation, Y/N threw her arms around him again, pulling him into a warm embrace. 

“I’m so happy for you—for all of you,” she whispered, her voice thick with genuine emotion.

Tallen’s smile widened as he held her, and for a moment, they simply existed in the comfort of the reunion.

Lyan, Kiku, and Ren—like Y/N and Tallen—were Sirens. They were the lucky few who had escaped the hands of those who sought to harm or exploit them. Together, they had formed their own little family, bound by survival and shared pain. They’d taught Y/N so much in the time they travelled together, how to survive in a world that wanted them gone.

And like true Sirens, they dedicated themselves to their art—music, song, and performance—using their gifts to dazzle. She could still hear their songs in her memory—hauntingly beautiful, filled with life and defiance. They’d always been on the move, hopping from island to island, hitching rides with mercenaries or, when times were desperate, even pirates. And yes, while swimming is a faster option, the risk is bigger. Staying in one place too long was a death sentence; that was the first lesson Y/N had learned from them. And now, the thought that they had their own ship, a small but significant freedom, made her heart swell with pride.

“You’ve come so far,” Y/N said softly, pulling back slightly to look at Tallen. “You all have.”

“And so have you,” Tallen replied, his tone warm and genuine. “I’m glad we found you again. Tell me, who are those people you’re here with?” 

“They’re… uh, friends,” Y/N replied, her tone unsure as she glanced over her shoulder toward the Going Merry. She hesitated, catching the way Tallen was giving her a pointed, knowing look. Finally, she sighed and added, “It’s complicated—and a long story.”

“Well,” Tallen said with a grin, leaning back slightly, “good thing we’re leaving tomorrow morning. That gives us all night to catch up."

"Okay," Y/N nods.

“Good,” Tallen said with satisfaction, taking a step back. “See you later at the bar, okay?”

“See you there,” Y/N replied, watching him as he walked away, her heart feeling lighter than it had in years.

Finally, Y/N stepped inside the ship, and her breath hitched at the sight before her. The Baratie was nothing short of magnificent, a unique blend of maritime charm and upscale elegance.

However, before Y/N could truly take in the grandeur of the Baratie's interior, her gaze locked onto the host near the entrance. Her back stiffened instinctively, and though she kept her composure, the small, well-concealed gills along her neck fluttered. They only did that when another sea creature was nearby.

He was a Fish-man.

For a moment, their eyes locked, and the air between them seemed to hum with a quiet, unspoken tension. He knew. Of course, he knew. The thing about Sirens—unique among sea creatures—was that no matter how perfectly they blended in with humans, their presence sang to others of the sea. It wasn’t something tangible, but like a melody carried on a current, it was impossible to ignore for those born of the ocean.

It wasn’t just recognition. It was history, unspoken and heavy, carried in their shared gaze. Sirens and other sea folk—whether Fish-men or Merfolk—had always harbored a quiet animosity toward one another. Sirens had something the others didn’t: choice. Sirens had a freedom that others of the sea could only dream of: the ability to seamlessly blend in with humans, to walk on land or dive into the ocean at will, and to choose when to wear a tail and when to shed it. It was a luxury that set them apart—and not always in a good way. Resentment had festered for centuries, compounded by the Sirens’ refusal to bend the knee to King Neptune’s rule.

They were a secretive, lone species.

Yet, in the aftermath of the near-massacre of her kin, these old grudges had softened, replaced by mutual, unspoken support among the remnants of the sea's diverse inhabitants.

The host's polite smile never wavered as he addressed her. "Is there anything I can help you with, madam?"

Y/N took a steadying breath, reminding herself of the fragile peace that now existed and the necessity of keeping her composure.

“My friends,” she began, her tone calm but deliberate, “they came in here just now. Uh—one of them had a straw hat—”

“Ah, yes,” the host interrupted smoothly, a faint trace of mockery curling the edges of his voice. “The ‘future king’ of the pirates.” His words dripped with wry amusement as he turned, gesturing toward a table at which her friends were currently occupying. “It’ll be right there, madam.”

Y/N sent him a polite smile, the corners of her lips curving just enough to convey gratitude. But her eyes held a subtle, knowing look—a quiet reminder of who and what she was.

“Thank you,” she said, her voice steady and composed, before making her way towards her friends

Y/N let out a quiet huff as she descended the stairs, her heels clicking rhythmically against the polished wooden floor. Internally, she was fuming. Tallen, she thought with a simmering annoyance. After this meal, I’m slapping his dimples clean off for not mentioning the Fish-Men.

But in her mild frustration and distraction, she didn’t notice the waiter stepping out from the side with a tray balanced on one hand.

They collided.

The sudden impact caused her to stumble slightly, and she instinctively reached out to steady herself, her hand brushing against the waiter's arm. A soft clatter followed as a single glass wobbled on the tray, but before it could fall, the waiter caught it effortlessly, his reflexes as smooth as silk.

“Oh, shit. I’m sorry,” Y/N blurted, her voice a mix of embarrassment and genuine apology, a faint flush dusting her cheeks.

"No need to apologize, mademoiselle," he said smoothly, turning to face her with a charming smile that she was sure he thought could probably disarm a shipful of pirates, "If anything, I should thank the heavens for allowing me to cross paths with such a captivating beauty."

Y/N blinked at him, caught momentarily off guard by his line, but only for a heartbeat. Oh, he's one of those. Her lips curved into a sly, confident smile as she straightened her dress, effortlessly slipping into her usual charm.

"Is that so?" she teased, tilting her head ever so slightly. "Well, if fate's handing out meetings, perhaps it's my lucky day to encounter a waiter with such impeccable reflexes and a silver tongue to match."

The waiter's eyes widened for a brief moment, her words catching him off guard, but his signature charm quickly returned. He straightened his posture, one hand adjusting his tie as a smirk tugged at the corner of his lips.

“Ah, mademoiselle, you honor me,” he said smoothly, his voice rich and velvety. “But let me assure you, my reflexes pale in comparison to the elegance of your words. It seems fate isn’t just kind—it’s downright generous today.”

His gaze softened as he leaned slightly closer, lowering his voice as though sharing a secret. “And if this is your lucky day, then I’d consider it mine too. After all, it’s not every day I get to save a stunning woman from the perils of a wobbling glass.”

“Smooth,” she said and leaned in slightly, her expression mischievous, her voice dropping to a low, playful lilt. “But tell me, loverboy, is that line part of the menu, or is it just a special off-the-cuff dish you whip up for unsuspecting women?”

Sanji blinked, the faintest hint of pink dusting his cheeks, but he quickly tried to recover, clearing his throat. “I-"

Her eyes sparkled as she continued, barely giving him a chance to recover.

“Because if it’s the latter, I must say, it’s quite the treat. Though…” her eyes locking onto his with an intensity that made his breath hitch. She leaned in slightly, her voice dropping to a soft, almost conspiratorial tone. “I can’t help but wonder if you’ve got something even better in your repertoire.”

Sanji blinked, momentarily at a loss, his cheeks dusted with a soft pink hue as he struggled to regain his composure. He adjusted his tie again, swallowing hard, his usual suave demeanor slipping under the weight of her effortless teasing.

“M-mademoiselle,” he stammered, his voice still coated with charm, though now tinged with genuine fluster. “I assure you, my repertoire has no limits, and I’d be honored to… to serve you something truly unforgettable.”

Y/N took a step closer, her eyes never leaving his.

"You know," she said softly, reaching up to straighten his slightly askew tie, "flattery will get you everywhere." Her fingers lingered for a moment longer than necessary, her touch light and teasing.

The waiter's breath hitched, his composure slipping as a deep flush spread across his cheeks. "I-I... um..."

Y/N leaned in, faces ever so closely, she whispered, "But only if you can keep up." With that, she pulled back, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have friends waiting."

She turned on her heel and sauntered away, leaving the flustered waiter staring after her, his heart pounding in his chest. She couldn't help but chuckle to herself. Too easy.

Y/N made her way over to her friends, her heels clicking softly against the polished floor. She paused when she reached the table, her eyes scanning the group briefly before landing on Zoro, who was comfortably perched at the edge of the bench.

“Zoro,” she said, her tone light but teasing, “please stand up so I can sit next to Nami.”

Zoro raised an eyebrow at her, clearly unimpressed. “What’s wrong with sitting on the other side?”

Y/N tilted her head, her expression turning mock-serious as she placed a hand on her hip. “Because I prefer not to be in the splash zone when Luffy starts eating. You know how he gets.”

Zoro grumbled under his breath, muttering something about "drama queens," but he stood up anyway, shifting to another spot and letting Y/N slide gracefully into the seat next to Nami without a fuss.

She turned to him with a triumphant smile, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “Thank you, my love. Your cooperation is, as always, greatly appreciated.”

"Yeah, yeah," Zoro muttered, settling into his new seat.

Nami chuckled softly beside Y/N. "Always know how to get your way, don't you?"

Y/N winked. "It's a gift, really."

The waiter approached their table with practiced ease, balancing a tray of beverages for the group. One by one, he placed the drinks in front of the others, his movements smooth and deliberate. Just as Y/N was about to ask for hers, he surprised her by setting a bottle of wine on the table in front of her with a small flourish.

Y/N raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued as she glanced up at him. His smirk was confident, almost playful, as he leaned slightly closer.

“A fine wine for a finer ladies,” he said smoothly, his tone dripping with charm.

The corner of Y/N’s lips curled into a sly smile as she leaned back in her chair, her arms crossing casually.

“Flattering,” she replied, tilting her head. “But I don’t remember ordering this."

Y/N turned to Nami faking curiosity, "Did you, pumpkin?"

"No, just water," Nami said as she picked up the glass of water.

"I see," Y/N turns to the waiter and tilts her head. "Does it come with the compliments of the establishment or the waiter?”

“Consider it a personal recommendation,” he said, straightening slightly, though there was now a faint hint of nervousness behind his confident demeanor. With practiced precision, he poured a bit of the wine into her glass, the rich liquid swirling smoothly as it settled.

“The food will be out shortly. Enjoy,” he added, flashing one last ever-so-charming smile before gracefully excusing himself.

Y/N watched him go with an amused smirk before raising her glass. “Well, salud,” she said, the word rolling off her tongue effortlessly as she took a sip. She paused for a moment, savoring the taste, then gave a small nod of approval.

“Not bad,” she remarked, her eyes twinkling as she placed the glass back on the table. “But then again, I wouldn’t expect anything less after that performance.”

Nami rolled her eyes. “He’s got some nerve, doesn’t he?”

Y/N chuckled. “Oh, he’s got more than nerve—he’s got good taste in wine, at least.”

“So, who was your friend you were talking to?” Luffy asked, his voice muffled as he shoved another bread bun into his mouth without a care for table manners.

Usopp grinned, leaning forward with his eyebrows wiggling teasingly. “A boyfriend?”

“Gods, no,” Y/N said with a laugh, shaking her head as she took another sip of her wine. “Like I said, just an old friend. One I didn’t think I’d ever see again.”

“Why?” Nami chimed in, her tone laced with curiosity.

Y/N paused for a moment, swirling the wine in her glass as she felt their collective gazes on her. She glanced around the table, noting how everyone seemed genuinely interested—except Zoro, of course, who only looked vaguely curious in that nonchalant way of his.

“Well,” she began, her voice casual but carrying a note of fondness, “me and a few others used to travel together, performing and stuff, y’know.” She gestured vaguely with her free hand, her eyes flicking between them. “We were kind of like a troupe—dancers, musicians, storytellers. We’d go from town to town, putting on shows for whoever would watch.”

“Oh, were they your crew—” Luffy started, crumbs still falling from his mouth.

“No,” Y/N interrupted softly, her tone firmer this time, her gaze dropping to the glass in her hand. “They’re no crew. They’re family.”

She fidgeted slightly in her seat, swirling the wine in her glass before taking another sip as if it might steady her thoughts.

“They’re like an uh—” she began, then shook her head with a quiet laugh, a wry smile tugging at her lips. “Like a shoal of fish or a covey of birds. Travelling from island to island letting the ocean take them as it wishes. Never staying in one spot long enough to leave footprints.”

“Why didn’t you stay with them?” Of course, it was Zoro who asked, his tone direct, his eyes focused on her like he was cutting straight to the heart of the matter.

Y/N looked up at him, her lips parting slightly as if to answer, but then her gaze shifted to Nami, who was watching her just as intently, curiosity swimming in her eyes. Her fingers tightened slightly around the stem of her glass, and for a moment, the table felt far too quiet, far too heavy.

But as if the universe took pity on her, the food arrived at just the right moment, breaking the tension. Plates upon plates were placed on the table, filling the air with rich, mouthwatering aromas. Y/N let out a silent breath of relief, leaning back slightly as the waiter set down her dish.

She picked up her fork, her expression brightening ever so slightly as she joined in the excitement of the food.

“Finally, something to stop Luffy from eating the table itself,” she teased lightly, earning a laugh from Usopp and a grin from Nami.

The question lingered in the air, unspoken but not forgotten. But Y/N knew she wouldn’t let it resurface. The answer was too close, too raw. The past had no business here, at this table, at this moment. Not when she’d worked so hard to leave it behind.

The food was nothing short of spectacular, each bite bursting with flavor that left Y/N savoring every moment. It didn’t take long for the plates to clear—unsurprising, given Luffy and Usopp’s ravenous appetites. She barely had a chance to blink before half the dishes had vanished under their relentless enthusiasm.

Still, Y/N took her time, indulging in the meal like royalty. She filled herself to the brim, relishing every delicious bite until she leaned back in her chair, her stomach pleasantly full and her breaths coming slower. She could hardly move, but it was worth it. Every bite was a little slice of heaven, and she wasn’t about to let a single morsel go to waste.

As she leaned back in her chair, a hand resting on her overly full stomach, she let out a soft groan of satisfaction. “If I die tonight, tell the world it was the Baratie that did me in,”

I can’t eat another bite," Usopp moaned dramatically, staring longingly at the piece of cheese on his fork. "But it’s so good."

"Oh man, you said it," Zoro muttered, popping the cap off yet another beer like he was just getting started.

Nami sighed, leaning back in her chair with a hand on her stomach. "I’m not gonna be hungry for a week."

And then, of course, there was Luffy—completely unaffected. Still chewing on a massive steak, he looked up and, with the kind of unshakable enthusiasm only he could manage, asked, "Should we order dessert?"

"Yes," Y/N grunted, her voice muffled as she leaned back, trying to make room in her overstuffed stomach. She might have been at capacity, but her notorious sweet tooth wasn’t about to let her skip dessert. Priorities, she thought.

"I already got mine," Zoro said, lifting his beer meaningfully as if it was the only dessert he needed.

Luffy’s eyes lit up like fireworks, his hands clapping against the table as he finally set his steak down. "Mmm, that reminds me! We should make a toast. Come on, grab your glasses."

Y/N turned her head to look at Luffy, her expression somewhere between disbelief and amusement as she watched him grab his glass of milk. She sighed, unable to suppress a small smirk, and reached for her wine glass, holding it up lazily.

“To the best crew sailing on the sea and to our victory!” Luffy cheered, his grin stretching wide as he clinked his glass enthusiastically with Usopp’s.

“Yeah!” Usopp echoed, raising his mug like they’d just conquered the world.

Y/N, however, pursed her lips, quietly letting her glass go down. The memory of being so dangerously close to recapture by the Marines clung to her like a shadow, one she wasn’t ready to toast to. Victory wasn’t exactly how she’d describe that ordeal.

“No, I’m sorry,” Nami’s voice cut sharply through the celebration, her expression firm as she turned to Luffy. Her eyes narrowed. “What victory exactly?”

“Against the Marines,” Luffy said with unabashed excitement, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. “Our very first battle, and we crushed them!”

Nami shook her head, her frustration barely masked. “I don’t know how many naval battles you guys have been part of…”

“Two dozen, at least,” Usopp mumbled behind his beer.

“But that was a disaster,” Nami continued, her tone rising as her exasperation grew. “We were unprepared, uncoordinated. By all rights, we should be at the bottom of the sea right now.”

“We’re not, though. Luffy saved us,” Usopp chimed in, as if that single fact could erase the chaos of it all.

Y/N let out a slow, heavy sigh, pinching the bridge of her nose as she felt the tension brewing. She could already see where this conversation was heading.

"Are we really going to ignore the elephant in the room right now?" Nami deadpanned, her voice sharp enough to cut through the remaining chatter at the table.

"Nami, please..." Y/N said softly, trying to settle her down, though she already knew it was a losing battle.

"No, Y/N." Nami turned to her, her tone edged with irritation, then immediately shifted her focus to Luffy. "He didn’t think to mention that his grandfather was a Marine. And not just any Marine, a vice-admiral! I don’t know about you, but I didn’t sign up for that."

"You raided a Marine base," Zoro interjected, as if that explained everything. "Of course that’ll make you a target."

Nami swung her gaze to him, her arms crossing tightly over her chest. "If I’d stolen the map, no one would’ve even known I was there. As opposed to wrecking a base commander’s office."

Before the tension could thicken, Sanji—the waiter, as Y/N now knew him—appeared at the table with his usual calm and charm. "Your bill, sir,"

“Ah,” Luffy replied with his trademark carefree smile which took a moment to appear. He took the bill, scribbled something on it without a second thought, and handed it back. “Thank you, my good man.”

Y/N’s frown deepened as she sat up straighter, her eyes narrowing on the exchange. Her mind shot back to Shell’s Town, to when Luffy ate at Food Foo. She had a bad feeling about this.

"Luffy..." Y/N said cautiously, her voice slower now, but he didn’t seem to hear her.

Sanji glanced at the bill, and a peculiar smile spread across his face—a smile that sent a shiver down Y/N’s spine.

"No, sir. Thank you," Sanji said smoothly, his tone almost... too pleasant.

Oh, gods. As a former waitress, she recognized that smile. That was the you’re-about-to-regret-this smile. She glanced around at her friends to see if anyone else had caught on. Was she seriously the only one who understood what was about to happen?

She tried again, her voice firmer this time. "Luffy—"

But Luffy, ever oblivious, kept going, raising his voice slightly in what he probably thought was an inspirational tone. "I’m not saying it’s good that the Marines are on our tail, but we showed them they can’t just roll over us!"

Y/N pinched the bridge of her nose as her suspicions grew. Luffy, please, stop talking.

"This crew, our crew, can handle anything!" Luffy declared with a triumphant grin.

And as if fate itself couldn’t resist the opportunity for drama, a booming voice cut through the restaurant, rattling the walls and silencing the entire room.

"WHO THE HELL IS MONKEY D. LUFFY?"

Y/N groaned, her head falling into her hands. "Here we go." She looked up just in time to see Luffy look back at the head chef and raise his hand.

"Here!" Luffy called out, completely unfazed.

Y/N slumped back into her seat, muttering under her breath. "Oh, stars,"

Zeff's scowl deepened as he strode over, the crowd parting in his wake.

"You seem to be confused about the rules of the house, but Baratie doesn’t offer credit," He stopped beside their table, towering over them, glaring at Luffy, who was calmly drinking his milk. "You eat, you pay."

Luffy looked up, unfazed. "I think you’re confused."

Y/N groaned, hiding her face in her hands as she anticipated Luffy's explanation.

"The meal has already been paid for. I just haven’t given you the money yet," Luffy continued confidently.

Zeff's eyebrow twitched. "Yeah, and how’s that?"

"You can add it to my treasure tab," Luffy said with a grin.

"And what, pray tell, is that?" Zeff asked, his tone flat.

"I may not look like a big deal yet, but you’re talking with the future King of the Pirates," Luffy declared, as if that would make it all go better. "And as soon as I find the One Piece, I’m gonna come back, pay this bill in full, and with interest."

The chef let out a low chuckle. “I’ve got a better idea.”

And just like that, Luffy was unceremoniously hauled off toward the kitchens.

Y/N leaned back in her chair, exhaling a long breath of resignation as her gaze drifted off into nothingness. She made no effort to intervene—it wasn’t worth it.

“I need a drink,” Nami muttered, rubbing her temple.

“Yeah, something stronger would be nice,” Y/N sighed, her tone weary.

The four made their way to the bar located in the mouth of the fish, settling into a quiet corner. Zoro was already on his third beer, Nami and Usopp on their first, while Y/N was still trying to decide what to order. Her deliberation was interrupted when a bartender approached and set a large cocktail down in front of her.

Y/N blinked, looking up at the bartender with confusion. “Uh... sorry, I didn’t—”

“No, he bought it for you,” the bartender cut in, nodding toward an older man perched at the bar. The man raised his glass and winked at her with a grin that sent a chill down her spine.

“Oh, goodie,” Y/N muttered under her breath, though she still managed to force a polite smile in the man’s direction. She turned back to the bartender quickly. “You can take it back. I—”

Before she could finish, Usopp reached over, snatching the drink with a grin. “No, I’ll take it!” he said cheerfully, taking a big sip. His face lit up almost immediately.

“Oh, this is good!” he said, waving enthusiastically at the older man. “THANK YOU!”

Y/N stared at him, half-exasperated, half-amused, as she sighed and leaned back in her chair. “You’re incorrigible, you know that?”

Nami leaned back in her chair. “You’ve got some admirers, Y/N.”

“Admirers I don’t want,” Y/N shot back, glaring playfully at Usopp as he continued to sip the drink. “Thanks for taking one for the team, Usopp.”

“Hey, waste not, want not.” He took another big sip, completely unbothered, while Nami rolled her eyes and Zoro chuckled into his beer.

"Speaking of waste not," Y/N said with a sly smirk, reaching over to grab Usopp's barely-touched beer. "I’ll take that off your hands, champ."

Usopp, completely absorbed in savouring the oversized cocktail, simply hummed in agreement, nodding absentmindedly as he took another enthusiastic sip.

“Thanks, generous as always,” Y/N chuckled, raising the glass to her lips, watching as Usopp continued to obliviously inhale the cocktail, none the wiser.

That was until Zoro, in an uncharacteristic act of charity, warned the boy, “Pace yourself.”

Usopp paused mid-sip, looking down at the drink with a skeptical expression. “I don’t even think there’s liquor in this. It tastes just like candy.”

Y/N tilted her head thoughtfully, a teasing hum escaping her lips. “Wouldn’t be so sure,”

Zoro took a swig of his beer and added dryly, “Yeah, last time I said that, I woke up face down under a table.”

Y/N burst out laughing, her grin wide and teasing. "Oh, I would’ve paid good berry to see that."

“Yeah, I bet you would’ve,” Zoro scoffed, his gaze shifting to Nami, who was staring intently at her glass, lost in thought. He raised an eyebrow before looking away. “That glass have gold on the bottom or what?"

Nami blinked, snapping out of her trance. “Hmm?”

“You haven’t stopped staring at it,” Zoro pointed out, his tone blunt as usual.

Nami sighed, clearly debating something, before finally caving and looking between Zoro and Y/N. “You seriously don’t think what Luffy did is messed up?”

Y/N’s teasing grin faded as she glanced down at her own drink. She could understand where Nami was coming from. Truly, she did. But who was she to demand someone to share their secrets? To dig up secrets or memories that Luffy clearly wanted to leave buried? That wasn’t her place.

“Yeah, he should’ve told us,” Zoro admitted, his tone calm and matter-of-fact. He leaned back in his chair before adding, “But in case you didn’t notice, we’ve been making enemies everywhere we go. Psycho clowns, killer butlers… what’s a vice-admiral gonna do to us that’s any worse?”

Y/N lifted her glass, her voice quieter but steady. “And who are we to demand something like that out of him? I’m sure he has his reasons for keeping it to himself.”

Nami shook her head, her frustration barely contained. “No, you don’t get it. I can’t get caught. Not when I’m so close…”

Her words trailed off abruptly as if she realized she had said too much. Her lips pressed together tightly, and Y/N made no effort to pry. She wouldn’t judge—she understood the weight of secrets all too well.

After a tense moment, Nami placed her beer down and forced a casual look. “Uh, who’s ready for another drink? My treat.”

Zoro grunted in approval, a slight smirk tugging at his lips. “My favorite kind of drink.”

Y/N nodded with a smile, “Can’t say no to that.”

With that, Nami swiftly stood up and headed to the bar, leaving the trio behind at the table. The moment she was out of earshot, Usopp leaned in conspiratorially, his voice dropping to a whisper as he said, “She’s hiding something.”

Y/N chuckled softly, tipping back the last of her beer. She set the empty glass down with a gentle clink and met Usopp’s wide-eyed gaze with a knowing look.

“Aren’t we all?” she replied, her tone light but laced with truth.

Zoro glanced at her but said nothing, his expression unreadable as he took another sip of his beer.

Suddenly, Y/N felt two strong hands grab her from behind, lifting her right out of her chair with a jolt. Her heart nearly skipped a beat, but the instinct to panic vanished as soon as she recognized the culprit. Only one person would do something so ridiculous.

“But look at you!!” Ren exclaimed, his voice booming with excitement as he hugged her tightly and started walking away from the table, carrying her like a sack of potatoes.

Y/N groaned but couldn’t help the laughter that bubbled out of her.

“Ren, put me down!” she demanded, half-laughing, half-protesting.

When he finally set her down, Y/N turned and froze, her eyes lighting up as she saw Tallen, Lyan, and Kiku standing nearby, all grinning from ear to ear.

For a moment, she just stared at them, taking it all in—the familiar faces, the warmth in their smiles, the wave of nostalgia and relief that washed over her. Then, without hesitation, she let out a shriek of pure joy and jumped forward, wrapping them in a tight hug.

“Oh gods, I can’t believe this!” she exclaimed, her voice cracking slightly from the overwhelming emotion. Hugging them again felt like coming home, like a missing piece of herself had been returned. The weight of everything she’d been carrying seemed to lift, if only for a moment.

They laughed as they hugged her back, each one holding her tightly as if to make up for lost time. Tallen stood to the side, his arms crossed and a big grin plastered across his face as he watched the reunion.

“I told you she’d be here,” Tallen said smugly, glancing at the others.

Y/N pulled back slightly, her hands still on Kiku's and Lyan’s shoulders, her smile wide and genuine. “Gods, I miss you all."

“We missed you more!” Ren grinned, squeezing her back tightly.

Kiku laughed softly, her voice warm. “We thought we’d never see you again.”

Lyan, ever the quiet one, simply smiled, his eyes crinkling with the emotion he didn’t need to say out loud.

"Tallen told us you’ll be playing with us tonight…" Kiku said, her voice lilting with both curiosity and excitement as she looked at Y/N with a hopeful smile.

Y/N blinked, momentarily caught off guard, before arching an eyebrow at Tallen, who was standing nearby, grinning like he’d just pulled off the biggest scheme of the century.

“Did he now?” Y/N asked, her tone teasing as she folded her arms, giving Tallen a mock glare. "Funny, because Tallen didn’t ask me about that.”

Tallen chuckled, holding up his hands defensively. “Come on, Y/N, it’s just like old times! One night, one set—think of it as a reunion gig.”

“A reunion gig?” Y/N repeated, raising both eyebrows now. “You mean the kind where you spring it on me last second and I have no time to prepare?”

“Oh, please,” Ren chimed in, throwing an arm around her shoulders. “You could do this in your sleep. You’re Y/N—you’re never not ready.”

She sighed, her lips twitching into a reluctant smile as she crossed her arms. “You guys really don’t give me a choice, do you?”

“Not even a little,” Lyan chimed in with a laugh, nudging her playfully. “Come on, Y/N. It’ll be just like old times.”

Kiku clasped her hands together, her smile widening. “We’ve missed this, and we’ve missed you.”

Y/N sighed, looking around at their expectant faces, her faux-annoyance melting into a small smile.

“You all are impossible, you know that?” she said, shaking her head. “Fine. But only because I am amazing and don’t need prep time.”

The group burst into cheers, Kiku clapping her hands in delight. “I knew you wouldn’t say no!”

“Yeah, yeah,” Y/N said, waving them off but unable to keep the grin off her face. “But don’t blame me if I upstage all of you tonight.”

Tallen smirked. “Wouldn’t expect anything less.”

After a few drinks—just enough for Y/N to feel a pleasant buzz warming her cheeks—and some planning for tonight's performance, the nostalgia began to creep in. The laughter, the easy camaraderie of old friends… it felt like slipping back into a part of herself she hadn’t touched in a long time.

Soon, the time for the show finally came. Excusing herself with a grin, Y/N made her way to the Going Merry to grab her guitar. When she returned, the bar was alive with excitement, the anticipation practically crackling in the air.

Tallen, ever the showman, was already commanding the attention of the crowd with his infectious energy and booming voice. He stood center of the makeshift stage, Den Den Mushi in hand, hyping up the room like a seasoned entertainer. When his eyes landed on Y/N stepping into view, he broke into a wide grin, his charisma cranked up to full volume.

“Ladies and gentlemen! Pirates, sailors, and scallywags alike!” he called out, his voice booming through the Den Den Mushi. “Prepare yourselves for a treat like no other! She’s sailed with the best, dazzled the rest, and left a trail of awestruck audiences in her wake! The one, the only, the songbird of the seas—give it up for Y/N!”

The audience erupted into whistles, cheers, and applause as Tallen stepped aside, his grin as wide as ever while he gestured grandly for her to take the stage. Y/N couldn’t help but roll her eyes with a playful laugh, shaking her head at his theatrics. Adjusting the strap of her guitar, she made her way to the centre of the stage with a light skip to her step and a twist that made her skirt flare just slightly, adding her own bit of signature flair to the entrance.

Her smile widened as she took in the energy of the crowd, the cheers lifting her spirits even higher. She gave a mock curtsy, her guitar still slung across her shoulder and leaned into the Den Den with a mischievous glint in her eye.

“Alright, alright,” she said, her voice warm but teasing as the applause began to settle. “No need to go overboard—Tallen already made me sound like I’m the second coming of Gold Roger.”

The audience chuckled, and Tallen shot her wink. "Just saying it as I see it, my dear."

“Alright, folks, let me be honest with you—Tallen hyped me up so much that even I’m starting to wonder if I’m actually that good,” Y/N said, grinning. “But hey, if I mess up, just remember—you paid for the drinks, not the talent.”

She let the crowd laugh again, her timing impeccable as she adjusted her guitar. “But in all seriousness, thank you for having me tonight. I don’t usually play in restaurants shaped like fish—it’s a very niche market—but hey, there’s a first for everything.”

A few people cheered in agreement, and Y/N gave a casual shrug. “Now, let’s get to the part where I make you forget how much you spent on tonight’s drinks. If I pull that off, I’m expecting a hefty tip.”

The crowd roared with laughter, and Y/N’s smile widened as her fingers brushed the strings lightly in preparation. “Alright, enough chatter. You’ve got drinks in hand, I’ve got a guitar, and we’ve got a whole night ahead of us. Let’s make it count.”

The performance began with Y/N leading the charge, her guitar striking bright, rhythmic chords that immediately set an upbeat tone. Lyan joined in, the lively jingle of his tambourine adding a playful, danceable cadence. The two played off each other seamlessly, their chemistry sparking an infectious energy that had the crowd tapping their feet.

With a quick nod from Y/N, the rest of the group jumped in. Tallen’s mandolin brought a sharp, vibrant melody, Ren’s drums added a driving, steady beat, and Kiku’s violin soared with a celebratory tone that tied everything together. The room came alive as the music burst into full swing, blending into a rich, layered sound.

The energy in the room shifted, the crowd coming alive with movement as the song picked up speed.

"I thought this path was ours to tread, But now it feels like we’ve been misled, Walking this lonely, lonely, endless shore. Your reasons crash like waves at sea, Still, here you are, still here with me, On this lonely, lonely, endless shore."

When the chorus hit, the energy exploded. The band’s instruments blended into a dynamic symphony, each member adding their unique flair. The crowd clapped along, swept up in the fast-paced rhythm. Y/N almost laughed mid-strum when her eyes landed on a drunk Usopp, who had claimed a tiny patch of open floor as his personal dance stage. With exaggerated movements and questionable rhythm, he twirled and stomped.

"If I follow you to the blue, And let my heart drift back to you, Will you stay with me forever, Or disappear like fading beams? If I give my soul to the restless tide, And let its rhythm be our guide, Will it hold us close together, Or wash away our dreams?"

As the band transitioned into the second verse, the room buzzed with vibrant energy. Y/N’s voice carried the emotional weight of the lyrics, weaving effortlessly into the lively rhythm of the instruments. The crowd was fully engaged—some clapped along, others swayed to the music and a few near the bar cheered, their laughter mingling with the lively tune. Even the more reserved patrons couldn’t resist tapping their feet or nodding along.

"You chose a path I couldn’t take, Now here we stand, the ground could break, Walking this lonely, lonely, endless shore.

Take my hand, don’t let it fall, Where does it end, if anywhere at all, Walking this lonely, lonely, endless shore."

The band played with seamless harmony—Y/N’s steady guitar leading, Kiku’s violin soaring, Ren’s drums driving the rhythm, and Tallen’s mandolin adding a playful melody, all tied together by Lyan’s tambourine. The crowd fed off their energy, with a few pirates dancing along with Usopp, turning a small patch of the floor into thier personal, chaotic dance stage.

Y/N caught herself smiling as she glanced over at her friends. Nami was bopping her head in time with the rhythm, a grin spread across her face as if she couldn’t help but get caught up in the energy of the song. Zoro, ever the stoic one, sat back with his usual indifference, but Y/N noticed the slight tap of his foot in time with the beat, betraying his enjoyment. Her fingers moved fluidly over the strings, effortlessly keeping pace with the upbeat rhythm, her smile widening as the song carried on to the last verse.

"I’m just a shadow in your light, A fleeting trace in the starless night. The ocean holds your broken vow, A love you couldn’t cherish now. I know, I know, it’s hard to bear, I lost you here, it’s just not fair. I know, I know, the tide won’t stay, It sweeps our dreams, it pulls away. I know, I know, it’s all too real, I lost you here, I’ll never heal."

With one final strum of the guitar and a unified flourish from the band, the music ended in a crescendo, leaving the crowd cheering, whistling, and stomping their approval. The energy in the room was electric, the upbeat ending turning what could have been a somber farewell into a celebration of persistence, love, and life’s tides.

Y/N laughed breathlessly, taking a small bow as the applause roared around her. Turning to her bandmates, she exchanged a wide grin with them, all of them clearly riding the high of the performance.

“Alright, drinks on you guys, yeah?” Y/N teased, her voice light and playful, carrying easily over the cheers and laughter that filled the room.

Tallen, grinned as he turned to her, his hand dramatically pressed over his heart.

“Oh, sweet Y/N,” Tallen said, his tone dripping with mock sincerity, the perfect blend of theatrical and heartfelt, “just one more ballad, yeah? Promise.”

“Oh, I don’t know, T." Y/N tilted her head, leaning back slightly as if the weight of his words was just too much to bear. "Carrying this whole show on my back is exhausting, you know.”

The crowd laughed, and Tallen didn’t miss a beat. He turned sharply to face the audience, his charisma cranked up to full volume, arms spread wide like a ringmaster addressing his adoring crowd.

“Come on, folks,” he called out, his grin dazzling and infectious. “Don’t you want to hear more? You’re not tired of her yet, are you?”

The room erupted with a thunderous cheer, whistles and applause filling the air as people shouted their agreement. Y/N raised an eyebrow, glancing at Tallen with a playful smirk as the crowd roared around them.

Leaning toward the Den Den, she gave him a mock glare, her voice dripping with teasing charm. “You really are shameless, aren’t you? Riding my coattails like this,”

Tallen shrugged dramatically, his grin widening. “What can I say? They love you, darling. I’m just the hype man making sure the masses get what they want.”

“And here I thought I was the show-off,” Her grin widened as she addressed the laughing audience, her tone light but commanding, filled with charm.

“Alright, alright, you win. Let’s give them something they’ll be singing in their sleep.” She threw Tallen a cheeky glance. “And don’t think you’re off the hook, T. I’m watching you.”

With that, the band launched into the next song, the instruments bursting to life in perfect harmony. The room came alive once more, and the audience swept up in the rhythm, completely enthralled by the magic of the performance.

Soon, the show came to an end, much to Y/N’s dismay. The applause was deafening as she strummed the final chord, giving the crowd one last radiant smile and a playful wave. “You’ve been amazing—don’t forget to tip your bartenders!” she called, earning another round of laughter and cheers before stepping down from the stage.

She was immediately met by a wave of smiling patrons, each vying for a moment of her time. Compliments poured in, one after another—people singing her praises, declaring her the highlight of their night. Some handed her Berry as tokens of appreciation, while others offered bottles of liquor, which she accepted with a bright grin and a playful “You sure know how to spoil a girl.” A few even declared their undying love, and Y/N laughed, placing a hand over her heart. “Flattered, truly. I’ll consider proposals after my second bottle.”

Her natural charm and ease kept the interactions lively, but eventually, she managed to slip away, the bottle of rum in her hand clinking softly as she met up with Tallen. Together, they wandered off to a quieter, more secluded part of the fish-ship, near the docks. The sounds of the lively restaurant faded into the background as they sat down at the edge, letting their feet dangle over the water.

“Been too long,” Tallen said, breaking the silence as he gazed out over the gently rippling water.

Y/N nodded, her fingers idly tapping the neck of the bottle. “Yeah, it has. I missed this. Missed you.”

He grinned, though it was softer than his usual showmanship, the kind of smile that reached his eyes. “You’ve done good, you know. I can tell.”

She laughed lightly, leaning back on her hands. “Still figuring it out. You know me—one chaotic day at a time, which these days seems more often than not.”

Tallen smirks in curiosity, "Whatever do you mean?"

"Earlier today, you saw the people I was with, well..."

They passed the bottle back and forth, the hum of the distant crowd fading into the background as they talked. This wasn’t the idle chatter from before—it was real, honest catching up, the kind of conversation only old friends could have. They laughed about shared memories, exchanged stories of where they’d been, and filled in the gaps that time and distance had left.

Y/N leaned back on her hands, staring up at the stars as Tallen told her a particularly ridiculous story about his recent travels. She laughed, the sound light and genuine, and nudged his shoulder with her own.

“You’re still as full of it as ever,” she teased, though her eyes gleamed with fondness.

“And you’re still the queen of stealing the spotlight,” Tallen retorted, taking another swig of rum and shooting her a teasing grin. “But damn, it’s good to see you out here again. Just like old times.”

Y/N chuckled softly, her fingers brushing the edge of the dock as her gaze drifted to the water.

“Yeah,” she murmured, her voice quieter now. “It’s good to see you too.”

For a moment, they let the silence settle between them, the kind of peaceful, unspoken understanding that only old friends could share. The gentle lapping of the waves against the ship filled the spaces between their breaths, and for a brief while, the weight of the past and the uncertainties of the future didn’t matter.

But, of course, Tallen couldn’t leave it there.

“So,” he began, his tone mischievous as always, “tell me… what happened with that boy? The one you left us for? You know, the one who made you think settling down was a good idea, all doe-eyed and dreamy?

The question hit her like a splash of cold water. Memories rushed back, unbidden, vivid and sharp. That boy. The boy. She could still see his face, hear his laugh, and feel how easy it had been to let her guard down with him. And she remembered just as vividly how that had been her downfall. The trust she’d given so freely, the love she’d thought was unshakable—it had all come apart like a house of cards in a storm.

She didn’t respond right away, instead reaching for the bottle of rum and taking a long swig, letting the burn of the alcohol drown out the ache that wanted to settle in her chest. Only when she’d numbed it enough did she hand the bottle back to Tallen.

“He was a pirate,” she said simply, her voice steady but laced with a bitterness she couldn’t quite hide.

Tallen took the bottle from her, his brow furrowing slightly as he took his own drink. He let the silence hang for a beat before muttering, “Fucking pirates.”

Y/N let out a soft, humorless laugh, her lips quirking upward just slightly. “Yeah. Fucking Pirates.”

The two fell quiet again, the weight of her words settling between them. Tallen didn’t press further—he didn’t need to. They both knew there were some stories better left in the past, especially on a night like this...

Y/N kept her gaze fixed on the water as it slipped and swirled around her feet, her toes wiggling absently in the cool waves. A quiet sigh escaped her as her thoughts drifted to a time when seeing her toes had been a rare occurrence—back when she didn’t need feet at all. The memory tugged at her, bittersweet and heavy.

“Do you ever miss… swimming?” she asked softly, her voice carrying a subtle edge, as though the question itself might shatter the fragile peace of the moment. But that wasn’t really what she wanted to ask. What she meant to say was, Do you ever miss your tail?

Tallen glanced at her, the unspoken meaning behind her words not lost on him. His fingers idly traced the rim of the bottle, his eyes flickered to the water. He didn’t answer immediately. For a moment, the ever-present charm and humor he wore like armor fell away, revealing something quieter, something raw.

“Of course I do,” he said at last, his voice low but steady. “It’s part of who I am. No matter how much I try to forget it—or hide it. I miss it every damn day.”

The words hit Y/N harder than she expected, though they echoed her own thoughts. She nodded faintly, her fingers brushing the edge of the dock as if trying to touch the memories she’d buried beneath the waves.

“Sometimes, I dream about it,” she admitted, her voice almost a whisper. “The feeling of the current, the water rushing past me. It’s like… I can still feel it, but when I wake up, it’s gone. And I realize it’s been gone for a long time.”

Tallen let out a low sigh, opening another bottle and taking a gulp before setting it down between them.

“We didn’t have a choice,” he said, his voice heavier now, laced with something darker. “They left us no choice. Staying in the water… staying as we were… it was a death sentence. Out here, at least, we have a chance. Even if it’s not the life we wanted.”

Y/N swallowed hard, her throat tightening as memories surged forward—the fear, the endless swimming, the loss of those who couldn’t escape. The oceans, once their sanctuary, had become a hunting ground, a place where survival meant running and hiding. Becoming human hadn’t been freedom; it had been desperation.

“I hate it sometimes,” she admitted, her voice trembling slightly. “I hate that we had to choose this... to give up what we were just to live. I hate that I don’t feel safe, not here, not in the water. Nowhere.”

Tallen’s gaze softened, and he reached out, his hand resting gently on hers. “We didn’t choose this, Y/N. I know it's not the life we knew, but it’s a life we can make ours. Even if we have to fight for it every step of the way.”

Y/N took another long drink from the bottle, letting the burn of the rum cut through the ache in her chest. She handed it back to him with a faint, tired smile. “It’s not fair,”

“No, it’s not,” Tallen agreed quietly, his voice tinged with a sadness he rarely let show. “But we’re still here. They didn’t get us. And as long as we’re still breathing, there’s a chance. Maybe not now, maybe not soon, but one day… one day, we’ll stop running.”

Y/N let his words sink in, her toes wiggling again as if testing the water beneath them. She wanted to believe him, to believe there was a day when the fear would fade and they could slip back into the waves without a second thought.

The two bottles of rum were emptied far too quickly, its warmth fading as the night deepened. The distant hum of the restaurant voices grew softer, replaced by the gentle sound of the waves lapping against the ship. The world seemed quieter, heavier, as though the night itself was reluctant to let them go.

Y/N let her feet dip deeper into the water, as if the sea itself could somehow anchor her to this moment, to Tallen, to the sense of familiarity and belonging she always felt in his presence. But reality was already creeping back in, tugging at the edges of her mind.

Tallen stretched his legs, giving the empty bottle a casual toss to the side of the dock, his usual bravado masking the heaviness in the air. “

Guess that’s it, huh?” he said, his tone light, but his eyes betrayed the same reluctance she felt.

“Yeah,” Y/N replied softly, her gaze fixed on the water below. She didn’t want to move, didn’t want to face the inevitability of parting ways again. But she knew she couldn’t stay. Neither of them could. “Out of rum, out of time,”

They sat there for a moment longer, both pretending they didn’t know what was coming next. But the truth was impossible to ignore. This wasn’t just a goodbye—it was a question they’d both have to carry if fate allowed them another meeting: Are they still alive?

Tallen finally stood, brushing his hands on his pants before offering one to Y/N to help her up.

“Guess we should leave it here,” he said, his voice steady but strained. “For now.”

Y/N took his hand, letting him pull her to her feet. She met his gaze, her own eyes shining with unspoken words.

“For now,” she echoed softly, her lips quirking into a faint smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes.

He slung an arm around her shoulders, pulling her into a brief, tight hug. “Take care of yourself, alright?” he said, his tone firm, almost commanding. “And don’t get into too much trouble.”

Y/N chuckled weakly, patting his chest as she pulled back. “You know me. Trouble follows, I just try to be faster.”

Tallen smirked, but it faded quickly. He hesitated for a moment, then turned toward the docks, his footsteps heavy as he began to walk away. Y/N stayed behind, watching his silhouette disappear into the shadows of the fish-ship.

She took a deep breath, letting the sea air fill her lungs, then exhaled slowly. The weight of the question lingered in her chest as she turned back toward the Going Merry. She didn’t know when—or if—she’d see him again. But for now, she had to keep moving. Because life didn’t allow for anything else.

Sirens, as creatures of the sea, naturally possess a higher tolerance for alcohol compared to humans. Their bodies, adapted to handle the intoxicating effects of fermented underwater plants and other potent marine brews, metabolize alcohol far more efficiently. That said, even a Siren wasn’t immune to the occasional tipsy stumble after two entire bottles of rum.

Y/N didn’t realize how tipsy she actually was until she began her walk back to the Going Merry, her steps wobbling as if the ground beneath her were swaying like the ocean waves. Each step was a battle to steady herself, but instead of frustration, she giggled to herself and began humming a tune, one she hadn’t even realized she’d made up on the spot.

By some miracle (or sheer luck), she managed to make it to the Going Merry without falling into the water.

“Absolutely magnifico!” she declared with a dramatic flourish as she boarded the ship.

With a triumphant grin, Y/N made her way inside, her mind now fixated on finding something sweet to snack on. Her thoughts were a delightful jumble of candy, cookies, and maybe even fruit if it was sugary enough. But before she could raid the pantry, she collided headlong into Nami, who looked positively furious.

“Woah! You okay, pumpkin?” Y/N slurred, placing a hand on Nami’s arm with a warm, lopsided smile.

Nami shoved her hand off, glaring at her with a sharpness that sobered Y/N just slightly. “Where the hell were you, Y/N?”

Blinking in surprise, Y/N tilted her head, her hazy mind trying to process the sudden shift in tone. “I… uh… wait, what happened?”

Nami’s glare intensified, her voice rising with frustration. “What happened is that Zoro is a massive idiot and is going to get himself killed!”

Before Y/N could fully process what Nami had just said, the navigator spun on her heel and stormed off, her footsteps echoing down the hall as she headed to her room.

Y/N stood there, swaying slightly as she tried to make sense of what she’d just heard.

“What…?” she muttered to herself, her voice tinged with confusion as she rubbed her temple. “What did I miss now?”

Y/N made her way into the kitchen, her footsteps lighter than usual thanks to her still tipsy state. The room was quieter than expected, and as her eyes adjusted, she took in the scene: a not-so-smiley Luffy—weird— Usopp, drunk yet clearly worried. And then there was the star of the night—Zoro—calmly cleaning his swords at the table, his expression as unreadable as ever.

As she walked in, all eyes turned to her. Well, almost all eyes. Luffy and Usopp looked at her directly, but Zoro merely spared her a quick glance before returning to polishing one of his blades.

“Y/N—” Luffy began, his voice unusually low, but she cut him off before he could finish.

“What’s this I heard about you getting yourself killed, hotshot?” she asked, her tone a mix of teasing and genuine curiosity as she made her way to the pantry, her mission for something sweet still very much a priority.

For a moment, the kitchen was silent, save for the faint sound of Zoro’s whetstone sliding against his sword. And then, as if it were nothing more than casual conversation, Zoro answered, his tone calm and steady: “I challenged Dracule Mihawk to a duel to the death. I’ll defeat him and become the greatest swordsman in the world.”

Y/N froze mid-reach, her hand hovering over a jar of honey. Slowly, she turned her head toward him, blinking as if she couldn’t quite believe what she’d just heard. That name—Dracule Mihawk—was familiar. Too familiar. The kind of name you didn’t just forget. Wasn’t he…? No, it couldn’t be. She must’ve heard wrong. Surely, she must have.

So, she laughed. A loud, disbelieving tipsy laugh, grinning as though he’d just told her the best joke of the year.

“Oh, that’s funny,” she said, straightening up and giving Zoro a bemused grin. “For a second there, I thought you said Dracule Mihawk. You know, the Mihawk, Warlord of the Sea."

Zoro didn’t even flinch. He continued cleaning his sword, his face completely devoid of humor as he replied, “Yeah, that one.”

Y/N continued to chuckle, shaking her head as she pulled the jar of honey from the pantry. “No, it’s not,”

“It is,” Usopp mumbled, his words slurred with worry.

Y/N stopped mid-motion, the jar of honey held loosely in her hands. She blinked, her tipsy mind still not fully processing the weight of the situation. Turning to Zoro, she found him looking at her, his expression unreadable, saying nothing. That, more than anything, made her stomach tighten.

With a sharp exhale, she marched to the table and all but slapped the jar of honey down, the sound sharp enough to make Usopp flinch. In that single second, the remnants of her drunken haze evaporated. Sobriety hit her like a wave, and her playful grin was gone.

She stared at Zoro with a hard, unyielding glare, the kind that could cut through stone.

“You’re joking,” she said flatly, her voice carrying the kind of edge that dared him to confirm her hopes. When he didn’t respond, her eyes narrowed as she took a step closer. “Please tell me you’re fucking joking, Zoro.”

Luffy, of all people, chimed in, his tone oddly serious—too serious for someone who is usually a ray of walking sunshine.

Y/N blinked, looking between Luffy and Zoro, trying to wrap her head around what was being said.

“Wait, wait, wait,” she started, raising a hand as if trying to stop the flood of insanity pouring into the room. “You’re telling me you actually challenged Dracule Mihawk? As in the Warlord of the Sea? The guy who could probably split this fucking sodding ship in half just for fun?”

Zoro glanced up at her briefly, his gaze calm but resolute.

“It’s what I have to do,” he said simply, his tone devoid of fear or hesitation. “If I want to be the greatest swordsman in the world, I have to beat him. That’s the only way.”

Y/N stared at him in stunned silence, her lips parted as she tried to find the words. Her anger faltered for a moment, replaced by something deeper—concern, frustration, maybe even fear.

“Zoro, you can’t just—” she started, but her voice faltered. She straightened up, running a hand through her hair as she stepped back. Her gaze flicked to Luffy and Usopp, searching for some semblance of support. Luffy, however, remained silent, his eyes distant, while Usopp looked sick.

Finally, Y/N let out a frustrated laugh, though there was no humor in it. “Unbelievable. You’re all just going to let him go through with this? No one’s going to stop him?”

“Can’t stop him,” Luffy said simply, his tone carrying a note of quiet acceptance. “This is his dream.”

Y/N’s hands clenched into fists at her sides, her nails digging into her palms as she stared at Zoro again, disbelief and frustration radiating off her in waves. She couldn’t wrap her head around it. As someone who had always fought tooth and nail for survival, it was utterly maddening to see someone willingly dive headfirst into danger like this.

“Zoro, please,” she said, her tone softer now, though the tension in her voice was clear. “Think about it for a second. I know you want this—I know how much it means to you—but this is insane. You’re already an amazing swordsman—”

“But not the best,” Zoro interrupted, his voice calm but resolute. His focus on his blade never wavered as he continued polishing it. “Not yet. Not until I defeat Mihawk.”

Y/N blinked, her chest tightening as his words sank in. She shook her head in disbelief, her voice rising slightly as she took a step closer. “Are you seriously so willing to throw your life away over a title? Is that all this is to you? Just a damn title?”

Zoro finally looked up, his gaze meeting hers with unyielding determination. “It’s not just a title. It’s everything I’ve trained for. Everything I’ve worked for. If I don’t take this chance, then what’s the point?”

Her breath caught in her throat, and for a moment, she didn’t know what to say. She searched his expression for any hint of hesitation, of doubt, but found none. He wasn’t going to change his mind. She knew that, even before she asked.

“You’re... not changing your mind, are you?” she asked, her voice quieter now, almost defeated.

“You already know the answer to that,” Zoro replied simply.

“Fine,” she said, her voice cold and clipped, her tone like a sharp edge. "Go get yourself fucked up."

Zoro didn’t flinch, his focus already back on his blade. “Noted,”

Y/N scoffed, a bitter laugh escaping her lips as she grabbed the jar of honey. She cast one last glare at the back of Zoro’s head, her frustration boiling just beneath the surface, before spinning on her heel and leaving the room without another word.

The jar of honey felt heavier in her hand than it should have, and as she made her way back to her corner of the ship, she couldn’t help but mutter under her breath, “Unbelievable. Reckless, stubborn fool...”

But no matter how angry she was, a part of her couldn’t shake the worry that gnawed at the edges of her mind. As much as she hated to admit it, she cared. And that made this all the more infuriating.

Hours passed, the tension on the Going Merry as thick as the salty sea air around it. Y/N had spent most of that time pacing, her nerves fraying with every passing minute. And now, much to her growing nervousness—and, if she were honest with herself, outright unhappiness—she found herself walking alongside Zoro to the docks of the Baratie with Luffy and Usopp, Nami was nowhere to be found and Y/N had no mind for that the moment.

The swordsman, as usual, was calm and steady, his expression unreadable, as if he were merely heading to run a simple errand rather than walking straight into a duel with one of the most dangerous men alive. Y/N, on the other hand, was barely keeping it together. Despite her earlier words, despite knowing Zoro’s mind was set, she couldn’t help herself.

“Zoro,” she said, her tone tinged with desperation, as she hurried to match his stride. “This doesn’t have to be today, you know. You could wait. Train more. Build yourself up first. Mihawk’s not going anywhere—he’ll still be terrifying tomorrow, or next week, or next year!”

“I’ve waited long enough,” he said simply, his tone steady and resolute.

Y/N groaned, throwing her hands up in frustration. “You’re impossible! You know that, right? Utterly impossible. It’s like you’ve got a death wish baked into that stubborn head of yours.”

He didn’t respond, his focus already ahead, his hand resting lightly on the hilt of one of his swords. His silence only fueled her exasperation.

“Zoro, listen,” she pressed, her voice softer now as she stepped in front of him, forcing him to stop. “You have nothing to prove. Not to me, not to the crew, not to anyone. You’re already one of the best I’ve ever seen—no one would blame you for waiting until the odds were... I don’t know, less suicidal?”

Zoro looked down at her, his dark eyes meeting hers, and for a brief moment, something flickered in his gaze. But it wasn’t doubt or hesitation—it was determination, pure and unwavering.

“I didn’t come this far to stop now,” he said firmly. “If I can’t face him, then I don’t deserve to be the best.”

Y/N stared at him, her mouth opening to argue, but the words caught in her throat. What could she say to that? What could she say to someone who was so determined to chase their dream, even if it killed them?

Y/N rolled her eyes, muttering under her breath as they reached the docks. The sight of the Baratie's empty deck and the looming presence of the infamous Dracule Mihawk in the distance made her stomach twist. She didn’t say anything else as they walked, but the tension in her chest only grew heavier with every step.

"Monkey D. Luffy," Mihawk drawled, his deep voice carrying easily over the sound of the waves. Y/N blinked in surprise, her gaze shifting to the warlord as he kept his piercing eyes locked on the boy. She followed Mihawk's line of sight, landing on Luffy, who—of course—was smiling. Smiling? Y/N thought in disbelief. She could never understand him. If a Warlord of the Sea so much as glanced in her direction, she’d have been halfway across the ocean by now.

“I’m surprised the Marines would require my services for such a small package,” Mihawk continued, his tone tinged with a subtle mockery that sent chills down Y/N’s spine. He tilted his head slightly, his eyes lingering on the Straw Hat. “Though I do like your hat…”

“Enough,” Zoro cut him off, his voice steady as he stepped forward, his eyes fixed on the warlord with unwavering resolve. “Let’s begin.”

Y/N gulped, her stomach twisting into knots as she watched Mihawk calmly remove the cross-shaped pendant from around his neck. For a moment, she was confused—was this some kind of pre-duel ritual?—but her confusion turned to disbelief when the man revealed the pendant to be a hidden blade. A tiny hidden blade.

Mihawk pulled the long part free, revealing a small knife, barely larger than a dagger. Y/N’s jaw nearly dropped. What the hell was that? She wasn’t the only one who thought so.

“What is that? I’m here for a sword fight,” Zoro deadpanned, his tone flat but edged with disbelief as he took in the Warlord’s weapon.

Mihawk didn’t flinch, his expression unreadable save for the faintest glint of amusement in his golden eyes.

“I don’t hunt rabbits with a cannon,” he replied almost mockingly, holding the tiny blade with an air of casual confidence.

Zoro, however, remained unshaken. He pulled out his two swords, their blades gleaming in the sunlight as he took a defensive stance. His voice was steady, firm, and filled with resolve. “I’m no rabbit.”

Mihawk pointed his small blade at Zoro, the move almost lazy in its precision. “That remains to be seen,” he said smoothly.

The tension between them hung thick in the air, a moment so charged that Y/N felt like she could hardly breathe. The world seemed to shrink down to just the two of them, predator and challenger, locked in an unspoken battle of wills before a single strike had even been made.

And then, Zoro moved.

With a burst of speed, he ran straight toward the Warlord, his swords raised and his expression fierce with determination. The fight had begun.

The fight was a blur for Y/N, but one thing was painfully clear—Mihawk had the upper hand from the very start. Every move Zoro made was effortlessly countered, every strike easily dodged or deflected as though the Warlord was swatting away a pesky fly.

Y/N’s hand flew to her mouth to stifle a shriek when Mihawk drove the small dagger into Zoro’s chest. Her fingers dug into Luffy’s arm as she squeezed tightly, her own breath catching at the sheer ruthlessness of the moment. When Mihawk finally unsheathed his massive blade, Yoru, Y/N grimaced, her stomach twisting with dread.

And then, as Zoro’s swords crumbled under the sheer power of Mihawk’s strike, Y/N couldn’t stop the gasp that escaped her lips. Her eyes widened in shock as Zoro, instead of backing down, willingly let himself be slashed across the chest, standing tall even in defeat. The scene left her frozen, torn between awe at his resolve and fear for his life.

"Zoro!" Luffy shouted, his voice raw with emotion as the green-haired swordsman collapsed to the ground.

Without a second thought, Y/N bolted toward him, her heart pounding in her chest. She dropped to her knees beside Zoro, her hands hovering over him, unsure of where to even start.

There it was—a massive, long, bloodied slash stretching across his chest, from one shoulder to the opposite side. The sight of it made her stomach drop. Her breath hitched as she pressed a trembling hand to her mouth.

"Oh, shit… Zoro," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the pounding of her own heart.

Monkey D. Luffy," Mihawk called out, his voice laced with a faint trace of curiosity. His sharp gaze settled on the boy, as if measuring him. "What’s your goal?"

"I’m going to become the King of the Pirates," Luffy replied, his tone uncharacteristically serious, his eyes unwavering.

"King of the Pirates, hmm?" Mihawk repeated, a flicker of intrigue crossing his otherwise stoic expression. "That’s a far more perilous path than even defeating me."

Luffy didn’t flinch. Instead, he turned to glare at the Warlord, his resolve shining through. "I don’t care," he said firmly. "It’s what I’m going to do."

Mihawk regarded him in silence for a moment, as though he were assessing something beyond words. Then, with a faint hum of approval, he nodded slightly.

"Maybe you will at that," he said, his tone carrying an unusual note of respect, "This world could use a few more wild cards."

Mihawk turned his piercing gaze away from Luffy, letting it fall to the green-haired swordsman lying on the ground, blood pooling beneath him. “Roronoa Zoro,” he said, his voice calm but commanding. “It’s too soon for you to die. Grow strong and come find me. I’ll be waiting.”

With that, and much to Y/N’s immense relief, Dracule Mihawk turned and walked away, disappearing into the distance.

Usopp hurried to kneel next to Y/N and Luffy, his face pale as he took in the sheer amount of blood pouring from Zoro’s chest.

“He’s losing so much blood,” Usopp said, his voice shaking with panic.

“He’s gonna be okay,” Luffy said firmly, though the determination in his voice couldn’t quite mask the crack of worry underneath.

“Hey, Zoro,” Y/N leaned closer, her voice trembling but insistent as she gently touched his cheek. “Can you hear me? Come on, hotshot, don’t do this.”

Luffy’s voice was softer now, he was smiling but his voice was filled with quiet resolve. “He said it’s too soon for you to die."

Zoro, lying in a pool of his own blood, let out a groan, his voice strained and heavy with pain. Every word sounded like it hurt to speak, but still, he forced them out. "Luffy... if I fail to become the world’s greatest swordsman… you’ll be disappointed. Right?"

Luffy immediately shook his head, his voice firm and unwavering. "You could never fail me,"

"Never… again. From now… until I beat him…" Summoning his last reserves of energy, Zoro gritted his teeth and unsheathed Wado Ichimonji, the sword trembling in his bloodied hand. He raised it weakly, his arm barely steady. "To become the greatest swordsman… I will never lose again!"

Y/N pursed her lips, worry etched into every line of her face as she watched Zoro’s arm falter. The sword slipped from his grip, clattering to the ground as his body went limp. He was out.

"Zoro?" Luffy’s voice broke slightly as he leaned closer, shaking the unconscious swordsman. "Zoro?! Zoro!"

"Luffy, stop!" Y/N grabbed Luffy’s arm, her voice sharp but tinged with worry. Her grip was firm, her eyes locking onto his with a quiet urgency. "Shaking him won’t help."

Luffy froze, his hands trembling as he pulled back slightly. Y/N turned to Nami, who was hovering just behind them, her face pale with concern and her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

"We need to get him inside," Y/N said, her tone steady but urgent as she glanced between Nami, Usopp and Luffy. She pressed her lips together, her mind racing. "Now!"

They all nodded quickly, their hands moving instinctively to help as they began the careful process of lifting Zoro, doing everything they could to keep him stable. The tension in the air was palpable, but Y/N’s focus remained on the task at hand, suppressing the storm of worry swirling in her chest.

They couldn’t lose him. Not here. Not like this.

A/N: I hope you enjoyed the chapter. Lots of love. Be safe.

Also, tell me if you want to get tagged.

Divider by @cafekitsune

Tags: @weirdowithaphone

[justtnat]

Through the Storm

-gojo satoru x wife!reader

-summary: while gojo satoru is the best and strongest sorcerer in the world, he is nothing without his dear wife

-warnings: none

-wc:510

masterlist

The rain hammered down on Tokyo, the relentless storm mirroring the turmoil inside the sorcerers’ hearts. The usually bustling streets were eerily quiet, only the sound of rain and distant thunder filling the air. Inside a modest apartment, you paced back and forth, anxiety gnawing at your heart. Satoru hadn’t returned yet.

He was supposed to be back hours ago. You knew the risks of his job, but the fear never got any easier to manage. Each time he left, you silently prayed it wouldn't be the last.

The door creaked open, and you spun around, hope and dread warring within you. There he stood, drenched and exhausted. His usually bright blue eyes were dim, shadows haunting his features.

"Satoru," you whispered, rushing to him. You reached out, but he flinched, stepping back slightly. Your hand dropped, the distance between you feeling like an insurmountable chasm.

"I'm fine," he muttered, his voice rough. "Just tired."

You knew him better than anyone, and you could see the weight he carried tonight was more than just physical exhaustion. "What happened?" you asked softly, hoping to coax him into opening up.

He sighed, running a hand through his wet hair. "Another mission. Another loss. I couldn’t save them all."

The anguish in his voice broke your heart. "Satoru, you do everything you can. You’re not invincible."

"That’s the problem," he snapped, his frustration spilling over. "I’m supposed to be the strongest, yet people still die. What’s the point of all this power if I can't protect everyone?"

You stepped closer, not letting his outburst push you away. "You can’t carry this burden alone. Let me in, Satoru."

For a moment, he looked like he might push you away again, but then something in him broke. He slumped forward, and you caught him, holding him tightly as his shoulders shook. The strongest sorcerer, crumbling in your arms.

You guided him to the couch, sitting beside him. He buried his face in his hands, and you wrapped your arms around him, offering silent support. The storm outside seemed to rage harder, but within your small haven, a different storm was beginning to calm.

"I feel so helpless sometimes," he confessed, his voice barely above a whisper. "I hate feeling like this."

"You’re not helpless," you reassured him, gently brushing his hair back. "You’re human, Satoru. It’s okay to feel this way."

He looked up at you, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I don’t know what I’d do without you."

"You don’t have to find out," you said softly. "I’m here. Always."

For a long moment, he just looked at you, the storm in his eyes slowly dissipating. He leaned in, pressing his forehead against yours. "I love you," he whispered, the words carrying a weight of gratitude and relief.

"I love you too," you replied, holding him close. "We’ll get through this together."

The rain continued to fall, but inside your little apartment, warmth and love began to mend the cracks. Satoru wasn’t alone, and neither were you. Together, you could weather any storm.