#it makes me feel like it looks bad 😭😭

[hereforuconnwbb]

The Study of Us - CHAPTER 5

paige x azzi (pazzi)

au fic!

word count: 10k

warning: language

hey guysss !! i was planning to edit this tmrw after finishing my schedule, but honestly thats probably gonna take forever and tmrw is gonna be a long day for me 😭 so i js pushed through the drowsiness and edited the chapter now to finally post it. i feel bad for delaying releases so much lately 😓 its almost 12 rn while im writing this note but im scheduling this to post at 12:30am not like that rlly matters but if there are any mistakes or parts that dont add up, js um pls ignore them—i am half asleep while doing this ABSAHHSA anywayssss i hope you guys enjoy and tysm for being patient 🫶🏽

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There were very few things Azzi enjoyed more than sleeping in on a Friday morning, especially when she didn’t have class. No alarms. No deadlines. Just her, her pillow, and a peaceful, dreamless sleep.

That is until her door nearly exploded.

BANG BANG BANG

���AZZIIIIIIII. OPEN UP. I KNOW YOU’RE IN THERE.”

Azzi groaned, yanking her comforter over her head. “Goddamn, Caroline…”

BANG BANG

“I SWEAR TO GOD I’LL PICK THE LOCK. YOU KNOW I KNOW HOW—”

Azzi flung the blanket off, shuffled out of bed with all the grace of a sleep-deprived zombie, and opened the door with a slow, dramatic pull.

Caroline stood there, too bright-eyed for someone who had clearly been awake for hours, wearing leggings, an oversized UConn hoodie, and a knowing-ass smirk. Phone in one hand. Coffee in the other.

“Good morning, my beautiful sunshine,” she sang, stepping inside without waiting for an invite.

Azzi scowled and shut the door behind her. “You’re psychotic.”

Caroline beamed, completely unbothered. “Aubrey texted me.”

Azzi froze mid-turn. “…About what?”

Caroline dropped herself onto Azzi’s desk chair and spun in a half-circle. “About you. And Paige. And about the—what was it? 3 hours? Yea I think 3 hour tutoring session you had last night. And the pizza. And the Uno.”

Azzi sighed, dragging her hand down her face. “It was not 3 hours—”

“Azzi. It was 3 hours,” Caroline deadpanned.

Azzi flopped back onto her bed, pressing a pillow over her face. “Why is everyone making this such a big deal?”

“Because,” Caroline said, crossing her legs, “you never hang out with anyone that long. You barely even tolerate me for 3 hours.”

“True.”

Caroline glared. “Rude.”

Azzi cracked a smile under the pillow.

“So?” Caroline said, kicking Azzi’s foot. “How was it? What happened?”

Azzi lifted the pillow just enough to breathe. “We ate. Talked. Played Uno. Studied.”

“And?”

“And… that’s it,” Azzi shrugged.

Caroline gave her a look. “You’re being vague on purpose.”

“I’m not.”

“You are,” Caroline said. “Because I know you. You never just talk to people. You don’t really talk to anyone unless you’re comfortable. And you’re not exactly the ‘let’s play Uno and bond over pizza’ type unless something’s different.”

Azzi stared at the ceiling.

Caroline smirked. “Is it still awkward?”

Azzi hesitated. “Less.”

“Oh ?” Caroline leaned forward dramatically.

Azzi sat up, running a hand through her messy morning hair. “It was awkward at first, but… not in a bad way. I don’t know. She’s actually different in person.”

Caroline raised her brows. “Different how?”

Azzi didn’t answer right away. She thought back to Paige last night, curled up with her hood down and glasses on, talking about her siblings, quietly listening when Azzi talked about her family and basketball. The way she’d smiled when Azzi joked about beating her in 1v1. The way she laughed when she lost in uno and threatened to throw the whole deck.

“She’s just… more real than I thought,” Azzi said quietly.

Caroline tilted her head. “Real like…?”

Azzi rolled her eyes and got up, walking over to her dresser. “Why are you analyzing everything I say like I’m on a therapy couch?”

“Because I’m your best friend and this is so much more interesting than scrolling on insta.”

Azzi huffed a small laugh.

Caroline grinned. “So? What do you think of her?”

Azzi glanced over her shoulder.

Caroline’s grin widened. “You like her, don’t you?”

Azzi turned back around quickly. “We’re just getting to know each other.”

“That’s not a no,” Caroline sang, giddy.

Azzi didn’t respond. Her heart felt annoyingly warm and fluttery and she hated that Caroline could see through her like a glass door.

Caroline leaned back in the chair. “It’s just funny how every time I ask you to come to a game, you’re suddenly busy or you have ‘homework’ or you’re too tired. But Paige asks? Boom. You’re in.”

Azzi crossed her arms. “I was gonna say no.”

“But you didn’t.”

Azzi rolled her eyes again, cheeks faintly pink.

Caroline sipped her coffee with a smug look. “You know, it’s kind of hilarious. You’re usually the most unbothered person I know. But now? Look at you. Blushing and awkward.”

“I’m not—”

“You are. Fully.”

Azzi sighed dramatically and sat down on the bed again. “Whatever.”

Caroline softened a little. “So you’re really coming?”

Azzi nodded. “Yeah. I said I would.”

Caroline smiled, this time less teasing, more genuine. “Good. It’ll mean a lot to her.”

Azzi blinked. “You think?”

“I mean even though Aubrey and I asked her to tell you, do you really think Paige just invites anyone to her game?” Caroline said

Azzi didn’t have an answer to that. Instead, she grabbed the pillow again and hugged it to her chest.

Caroline stood and headed for the door. “I’m telling Aubrey you’re officially down bad.”

Azzi groaned. “Don’t you dare.”

“Too late.”

“CAROLINE—”

The door slammed shut with Caroline’s cackling echoing down the hallway.

Azzi sighed again, falling back on the bed.

—---------------------------------

The second the doors to Gampel opened and that familiar blast of cold air hit her face, Paige felt her brain officially switch to game mode.

It was 2 pm. 3 hours to tip.

She walked in with Caroline and Aubrey, all of them still in sweats and slides, bags slung over their shoulders. They didn’t say much, didn’t need to. The place just had a vibe on game days. Everything buzzed.

The second they pushed open the locker room door, the noise hit.

Ice and KK were playing some weird game of reflex catch with a rolled-up pair of socks. Sarah had both legs up on the wall doing stretches while scrolling on her phone like she wasn’t upside down. The others are doing their stretches.

Caroline took one look and muttered, “Circus.”

“No place like home,” Aubrey said, grinning as she kicked her slides off.

“Yo, Jana,” Paige called, already unzipping her bag.

Jana looked up.  “You ready?”

“Yep.”

Jana grabbed her comb and stood behind her, already parting Paige’s hair.

Paige sat still, phone in her lap, as Jana’s hands moved. She always liked getting this part out of the way early. Hair done. Locked in. No distractions.

Ayanna walked past and clapped Paige on the shoulder. “You better show out tonight. Geno’s already in his pacing era.”

“He’s pacing at 2?” Caroline said.

“Full-on hallway laps,” Ayanna  replied. “He yelled at Ice for chewing too loud.”

KK snorted from across the room. “It was one cheeto bro.”

“Yall are cursed,” Jana muttered, finishing the last braid and tying it off. “Okay. You’re good.”

“Bless you,” Paige said, standing and stretching her neck. “I’m gonna go sort out that ticket thing real quick.”

Caroline raised an eyebrow. “For Azzi?”

Paige froze mid-step. “…yeah.”

Aubrey immediately perked up. “We’re coming.”

“No you’re not.”

“Yes we are,” Caroline said, already pulling her sweatshirt back on. “We wanna witness.”

Paige groaned. “It’s literally just a ticket.”

“You’re personally escorting her to the bench,” Aubrey said dramatically.

“I’m making sure she doesn’t get stuck in the student line.”

“Mhm,” Caroline said. “So romantic.”

“Can’t believe we’re third-wheeling to the box office,” Aubrey muttered as they walked out.

“Y’all need help,” Paige said, but she didn’t stop them from coming.

They crossed the main hallway and turned into the little hallway where the ticket box was set up for player comps. It was quiet, just one event staff guy at the desk.

He looked up and smiled. “Hey, Paige.”

“Hey,” she said, stepping up. “I just wanted to make sure a name got added. Azzi Fudd.”

He scrolled through his list. “Yep. She’s on here. One comp ticket. You want her behind the bench?”

“Yes, please.”

“She need a pass for tunnel entry?”

“Yea.”

“Got it. I’ll leave it at security.”

“Thanks,” Paige said.

Behind her, Caroline stage-whispered, “Wow. Behind the bench and a tunnel pass.”

“She’s so special,” Aubrey whispered back.

“Ok, shut up,” Paige muttered, cheeks warm.

As they walked back toward the locker room, Paige pulled her phone out and typed fast.

Paige: ur all set—come thru the player entrance & tell them ur name. theyll give u a pass n walk u down. u will be behind the bench

The reply came quick.

Azzi: ok cool ! thanks i cant wait ☺️

Paige stared at her screen for a second too long, smiling like an idiot.

“Did she text back?” Caroline asked, peeking.

“Mind your business.”

“She did,” Aubrey said. “Look at her face.”

“She’s blushing.”

“I’m not.”

“Azzi’s got you in a chokehold,” Aubrey said, grinning.

“She does not”

“She does,” Caroline said. “And honestly, it’s kinda adorable.”

Paige shook her head and pushed open the locker room door again.

“Y’all are worse than Geno.”

“Geno doesn’t call you out when you get all heart-eyes,” Aubrey said. “We do. You’re welcome.”

“I hate both of you,” Paige said, dropping back onto the bench.

She didn’t. Not even a little.

—---------------------------------

Azzi backed away from the mirror and stepped into her baggy jeans, loose and frayed a little at the knees, then slipped on her fresh white AF1s. Classic. Reliable. A little creased but still got the job done. She looked down, gave her outfit a quick once-over in the full-length mirror on her door. Oversized hoodie, chill jeans, clean kicks. Comfortable but not sloppy. Casual but… ok, maybe a little cute.

But whatever. It wasn’t for anyone. She was just going to a game. A basketball game. Just to watch. That’s it… Well, maybe there is a reason.

She grabbed her small crossbody bag, double-checked that her student ID and phone were in there, then slipped in her lip balm and airpods for good measure..

A small little jittery feeling crawled under her ribs as she walked out the door.

—---------------------------------

The closer she got to Gampel, the louder everything became—students yelling across the sidewalk, music from somebody’s speaker, the steady hum of gameday energy. It was barely 4, and the lines outside the arena were already long, stretching past the fencing with people buzzing about seats and rankings and starting lineups. She could see the security checkpoint from the road. The air was cool but not cold, and people were already filing in through the main entrances.

Azzi bypassed the crowd, headed toward the smaller side door—the one Paige told her to go to.

She had to show her ID twice, and the security guard looked skeptical until she said her name.

“Oh,” the woman said, flipping through a clipboard. “Fudd, right? Got you here. You’re with player comps. You’re good.”

She handed Azzi a pass on a lanyard and pointed toward the tunnel.

“Just walk straight down. Someone will meet you at the end to bring you to your seat in the section behind the bench.”

“Thanks,” Azzi said, slipping the lanyard over her hoodie.

She followed the path inside, the noise of the crowd behind the walls growing louder with every step. She passed volunteers setting up last-minute signage and workers wheeling coolers and towels toward the team hall. Everything looked busy. Real. Like a behind-the-scenes of a movie, except everyone had a job and no one was pretending.

As she reached the mouth of the tunnel, she slowed down.

The court was right there. Empty for now—no players, no layup lines, just a few staff in polos walking around, checking things off clipboards. The arena lights were already blazing, bleachers half-filled and still moving. Students were trickling in. Families and season ticket holders were already chatting and pointing. One little kid in a No. 5 jersey ran past, trailed by a tired-looking dad with a soft drink in each hand.

Azzi stood off to the side, unsure if she should keep walking or wait. A staff member spotted her and walked over.

“You Azzi?”

“Yeah.”

“Right this way. You’ll be just behind the bench. You’re early, but that’s good. It gets crazy in here fast.”

Azzi followed, heart thumping way harder than she expected. It wasn’t nerves, she wasn’t nervous. Not really. Just… out of place.

The staff guy pointed her to a seat directly behind the team bench.

Azzi sat slowly, eyes scanning the whole space. Gampel looked different from down here. Bigger. Brighter. Louder, even though it wasn’t full yet. She rested her hands in her lap, curling her fingers around the fabric of her hoodie sleeves, and tried not to smile too much.

Behind the bench. Just like Paige said.

She let her eyes wander the court again, then up toward the tunnel on the far side.

Still no players out.

But soon.

—---------------------------------

5 minutes later, the lights dimmed just slightly and the music shifted to something deeper, bass-heavy. The student section roared.

South Carolina jogged out first, shoes squeaking loud as they fanned out into layup lines. The cheers were mixed—loud, but not for them. More like respectful hype. Some boos too, mostly from the students already fired up.

Azzi leaned back in her seat, watching. They looked sharp, no doubt. Big. Fast. Focused.

And then exactly five minutes after the place exploded.

Cue the hype music. Cue the lights shifting again. Cue the announcer’s voice booming over the speakers.

“HERE COME YOUR UCONN HUSKIESSSSS!”

The tunnel across the court erupted, and the team ran out in a wave—Paige leading the team, followed by Ice, KK, Caroline, Aubrey, and the rest. The noise was unreal. Azzi flinched at how loud it was down here.

She stood halfway, not sure if she was supposed to. Paige hadn’t even looked her way yet—none of them had. They were all in that pregame zone, clapping, calling plays, running straight into warm-up drills. It made her grin. They moved like they belonged. Like they owned the place.

A few minutes passed then Caroline glanced over mid-drill and did a double take. Her whole face lit up.

She jogged over first, grinning and breathless. “Ok, you’re officially the most committed tutor I’ve ever seen.”

Azzi laughed. “Gotta keep my clients in check.”

Aubrey appeared a second later, pulling up beside her with a grin. “You look good! Not, like—you look good—like you look good here. This is so cool.”

Azzi raised an eyebrow. “Uh huh. You almost stuck that landing.”

“Shut up,” Aubrey said, bumping her shoulder. “She’s coming. Brace yourself.”

Azzi didn’t have to ask who.

Paige had peeled off from the group, jogging over with a slight smirk, ball tucked under her arm

“Hey,” she said, voice a little breathy from drills.

“Hey,” Azzi said back, smiling.

They hesitated for half a second then Paige leaned in, and Azzi hugged her. It was quick but warm, familiar. Paige held on a beat longer than necessary.

Behind them, Caroline immediately made a sound like a dying seagull. “Awwwwwwwww”

“Tragic,” Aubrey added. “She’s down bad.”

“I am not,” Paige said, pulling back but very much still standing way too close.

KK appeared like she’d been summoned by the drama, spinning a ball on one finger. “Ooooo we really doing hugs now? That’s cute.”

Ice showed up behind her, sipping from a Gatorade like it was tea. “What’s next? Matching jewellery?”

Paige groaned and stepped away, dramatically throwing her hands up. “Y’all need to worry about your own business.”

“We are, that’s why we’re invested,” Ice said.

Azzi laughed.

“Okay, okay,” Caroline said, backing up. “We’ll leave you alone now. Just don’t make out in front of the children.”

KK saluted Azzi as they trotted back toward drills. “Good luck, scholar. You’re doing the Lord’s work.”

And then it was just Paige and Azzi.

Paige rubbed the back of her neck. “Sorry. They’re… always like that.”

“I kinda love it,” Azzi said. “Feels like a sitcom. A slightly chaotic one.”

Paige chuckled. “Yeah. Welcome to the show.”

Azzi tilted her head. “So. You remember what I said last night?”

Paige blinked. “Uh… which part?”

She crossed her arms, mock serious. “If you play shit, I’m not tutoring you anymore.”

Paige put a hand to her heart. “Wow. Cold.”

“But…” Azzi’s eyes sparkled a little. “Put on a masterclass…”

Paige’s grin turned smug. “And we hang out after the game.”

“Exactly.”

“Define your version of masterclass.”

“Score a bunch. Flashy passes. Maybe make someone fall. I want drama.”

Paige nodded solemnly. “Say less.”

Azzi lifted her brows. “No pressure or anything.”

“Oh, I’m pressure-proof,” Paige said, backing away toward the court. “Just wait.”

Azzi watched her jog back into the drill line and shook her head, still smiling.

—---------------------------------

The pregame announcements came and went in a blur of thunderous applause, blinding lights, and player-by-player videos flashing across the screens. UConn’s starting five had been called—Kaitlyn, Paige, Ashlynn, Sarah, and Jana—each jogging out to their own roar, each moment louder than the last.

Now, the energy in Gampel had hit that strange, electric stillness that always came right before tip-off. Like a held breath.

The court was polished to a shine, the reflections of the overhead lights rippling off the hardwood in slow motion as the players took their positions. South Carolina huddled near their bench, focused and bouncing on the balls of their feet. UConn mirrored them.

Azzi sat forward in her seat, elbows on her knees, eyes locked on the court. Or more accurately… on Paige.

She was in her element now—shoulders rolled back, stance low and ready, head slightly tilted like she was listening to something only she could hear. Her jersey fit perfectly. Obviously. But something about the way the lights above caught her arms, casting shadows under each line of muscle, made Azzi’s thoughts derail for a second. Maybe even longer than a second.

She wasn’t trying to be dramatic. Really. But the lighting in this arena? Insane. She could practically sketch out the definition in Paige’s arms just from the way the overheads hit them. Her arms were flexed, loose but brimming with potential energy, the way athletes looked when they were seconds from exploding off the ground. Even the veins on her forearms were visible, subtle but right there, and Azzi had to drag her eyes away before her brain gave up entirely.

Unfortunately, she didn’t drag them fast enough.

Caroline, perched at the end of the bench just a few feet away, half-turned and caught the look on Azzi’s face.

“Oh my God,” she said under her breath but not quietly enough.

Aubrey leaned over behind her. “What?” she whispered back, eyes scanning and then landing right on Azzi’s very, very red face.

“Oh my GOD,” Aubrey repeated, laughing this time.

Azzi’s head snapped around, lips already parting in protest. “Don’t.”

“No, no, it’s cute,” Caroline whispered, clearly not about to stop. “That was a full-on thirst face. Like, textbook.”

“I was not—” Azzi’s voice squeaked, which didn’t help her case.

“She was admiring the… ‘lighting’” Aubrey said, using air quotes and everything.

“It’s excellent lighting,” Azzi muttered, tugging her hoodie sleeves over her hands like they might hide her mortification.

“It’s ok,” Caroline said, barely holding in a grin. “I stare at her arms in practice all the time. It’s healthy. Builds character.”

“Yea same” Aubrey added.

Azzi buried her face in her sleeve.

“God, yall are terrible,” came in Ice, from two seats down, who must’ve caught enough of the exchange to weigh in. “Let her blush in peace.”

“She’s got front-row view of the gun show, what do you expect?” KK added from beside her, sipping from her Gatorade again.

Azzi didn’t answer. She couldn’t. She was too busy trying not to pass out from secondhand embarrassment.

And then the ref blew the whistle for tip-off.

A ripple of noise surged through the crowd, a wave of cheers rolling up from the student section like thunder. Kaitlyn stepped to center court for the jump, crouched, poised. Paige was already bouncing on the balls of her feet, smirking at her matchup like she was born for this.

Azzi peeked up through her fingers.

Paige glanced toward the bench and for a split second, their eyes met.

Azzi wasn’t sure if Paige could see her blushing from there, but the little smirk that tugged at her mouth?

It said yes.

The ball was tipped, and the game began with a burst of adrenaline that pulsed through the entire arena. Jana got her fingers to it first, tapping the ball back to Paige, who immediately corralled it and pushed up the court to a roar from the crowd.

Azzi sat on the edge of her seat, practically vibrating.

From the jump, South Carolina came out locked in. Their defense was tight, switching everything, bodies quick to rotate, hands always in passing lanes. UConn’s offense opened a little jittery—hesitations, missed timing on cuts, a rushed shot or two. And Paige… Paige looked like she was pressing.

Azzi noticed it instantly.

She still looked good, poised, focused, but there was something off in the rhythm of her game. A half-second delay in decisions. A loose dribble here. A contested pull-up that bricked long. Not bad, just… not her usual smooth.

By the third possession, Paige had missed 2 jumpers, both slightly off-balance. She passed up a look from 3, choosing instead to drive and kick to Aslynn in the corner who missed.

South Carolina was capitalising early, too. A fast break off a turnover turned into a clean and-one finish, and UConn trailed 9–3 before they could get settled.

Geno stood with arms crossed, deadpan. “Let’s settle, huh? Find a flow. Let the game come to you.”

Paige nodded, but Azzi could tell—she was in her head.

She kept glancing toward the sideline. Not overtly. Just little looks. Between free throws. After a whistle. That barely-there flick of her eyes toward the bench and just past it.

Toward Azzi.

Azzi flushed every time it happened, like she’d been caught eavesdropping on a secret.

Caroline, now seated two down from Coach, leaned back during a break in play and whispered to Aubrey, “She’s tight. You see that?”

“Yeah,” Aubrey said. “She’ll settle. She’s just trying to act normal with her here.” She tilted her chin toward Azzi without looking.

Azzi caught it. She pretended not to.

Midway through the first quarter, UConn had made some changes. Still, the Huskies couldn’t get their rhythm right. The passes were clean, the movement was there, but it didn’t click yet.

By the end of the first quarter, the score was 16–12, South Carolina up. Paige had just 2 points on 1 of 5 shooting.

Second quarter, it started to shift.

Not all at once but in moments. 

Paige called a high screen and crossed over into a hesitation step-back, nailing a mid-range jumper over the outstretched arms of the defender. She didn’t celebrate but she looked straight to the side of the court again.

Right at Azzi.

Azzi raised her brows. Smiled. Gave her a small nod.

Paige cracked the tiniest smirk before turning and jogging back on defense.

It built from there.

A backdoor cut caught South Carolina off guard, and Paige hit Kaitlyn on a dime with a no-look bounce pass for an easy two. The crowd roared.

On the next possession, Paige pushed in transition, split two defenders with a lightning-quick change of pace, absorbed contact, and threw up a scoop off the glass—

Whistle. Bucket.

“AND FUCKEN ONE!”

The scream cut through the arena like a blade. Paige banged her fist into her chest once, fire in her eyes. The student section lost it.

Azzi blinked, caught between shock and—yep. That was hot.

Caroline turned halfway around, caught the expression again, and just snorted.

“Pray for her,” she murmured to Aubrey. “She’s a goner.”

UConn closed the quarter strong. Ashlynn hit a corner three off a skip pass. Paige pulled off a slick behind the back dribble that had her defender stumbling. The bench exploded. Even Coach Geno surprisingly cracked a small smile as the lead trimmed to two before the half.

Halftime score: 34–32, South Carolina still ahead.

But momentum? Shifting.

The third quarter opened like a different game.

Paige didn’t hesitate now.

She wasn’t thinking anymore, just hooping.

She blew past her defender early in the quarter with a hard right drive, finishing with a reverse that spun off the glass and went in perfectly. The next trip down, she sized up a slower defender in isolation and drilled a stepback 3 with a hand in her face. Bang.

The crowd went absolutely wild.

Paige smirked, holding up 3 fingers as she backpedaled.

Azzi jumped to her feet without even realizing it.

By now, the bench was up on every play. Morgan and Aubrey waving towels, Caroline yelling, KK throwing up 3 fingers after every 3 point shot Paige hit.

Which kept coming.

A fast break? Paige picked the pocket clean, weaved through 2 defenders, euro-stepped around a third, and finished with finesse.

Then, late in the quarter, a hesi-crossover-spin move that left her defender frozen. Paige went up strong through contact, landed awkwardly but the shot dropped.

Whistle.

She didn’t say a word—just smirked, rolling her shoulder forward in a slow, deliberate flex. Then she pounded her chest twice, her eyes saying everything her mouth didn’t.

Azzi just about melted into her chair.

Caroline didn’t even try to be subtle. She turned full-body and said, “Be honest. You’re making out with her later, right?”

Azzi covered her face. “Caroline!”

“Just checking.”

Paige ended the third with 24 points and counting.

4th quarter?

A clinic.

She was everywhere. Her footwork was surgical, her vision insane. She skipped a pass through 3 defenders for a layup, then came down and hit a transition 3 in rhythm off a kick-out from Sarah. The team was cooking.

Geno didn’t sub her once. He didn’t need to.

Final minute, Paige hit a deep 3 from the top of the key to seal it.

32 points.

Gampel was shaking.

The buzzer sounded, and the final score lit up: UConn 74, South Carolina 65.

Paige stood near mid court, hands on her hips, chest heaving, the crowd roaring around her. Her teammates mobbed her—chest bumps, shoulder slaps, screams.

But once the initial chaos died down, she pulled away gently. Walked toward the sideline.

Toward Azzi.

She looked nervous now, like the adrenaline had dropped just enough to let the rest of her rush in. Her hair was damp, sweat still clinging to her neck, but she had that grin. That stupid, crooked, overly confident one that almost hid how unsure she really was.

She stopped in front of Azzi, still catching her breath.

“So…” she said, voice light but a little unsure. “About that hangout. Or… what do you think?”

Azzi smiled, heart thudding in her chest. “I think you earned it.”

Paige’s grin went bright.

Before she could say anything else, Caroline popped up between them like she’d been waiting. “Okay lovers,” she gestured toward Aubrey and Ice, who were now approaching too,  “we’re all hitting Ted’s after. So she,” she pointed to Azzi, “is walking with us to the locker room, and you,” she turned to Paige, “are gonna meet us outside.”

“Wait, me?” Azzi blinked.

“Yeah, we’re just grabbing our stuff. Be quick,” Aubrey added. “You can wait by the tunnel. VIP access.”

Azzi hesitated, then nodded. “Ok, yea. Cool.”

“Cool,” Paige said, clearly trying not to look too pleased. “See you soon.”

Caroline pulled Azzi along with them toward the tunnel, throwing a wink back at Paige as they walked.

Paige stood there, wiping her wrist across her forehead, still riding the high of the game, the crowd, the win.

But her eyes?

They were only on Azzi.

—---------------------------------

The locker room buzzed with chatter and laughter as the team's victory sunk in. The players were all talking, half-showered, still catching their breath from the frenetic pace of the game. Paige, however, was in her own little world, the high of the game still pulsing through her veins. Her teammates had already started to scatter, some heading straight for their things, others lingering in the hallway.

She quickly finished wiping down with a towel, the heat from the shower clinging to her skin, but her mind was elsewhere on Azzi. The idea of spending time with her after the game had her stomach doing backflips. She couldn’t explain why she was suddenly so nervous, considering she had just put up 32 points in a game that felt like a war. It was almost funny how her brain switched gears so fast—one moment, she was locked in the zone, the next, she was just a girl hoping Azzi would say yes.

As she walked to the locker room exit, she found Caroline talking to Azzi near the tunnel, laughing and chatting. Caroline gave her a knowing look, a smirk pulling at her lips. “You two better make it quick,” she said, as if she had orchestrated this entire thing.

“Don’t worry, I got this,” Paige said, trying to sound cool, but there was no hiding the excitement under her voice.

Azzi smiled as she approached, still in her game-day hoodie, her hoodie strings pulled tight against the slight chill of the hallway. “You did great out there,” Azzi said, her voice calm but sincere.

“Thanks,” Paige said, her grin spreading. “I had a slow start, though. Just needed to get into a rhythm.” She shrugged, hands on her hips as they made their way outside the arena, the cool night air hitting them.

Azzi raised an eyebrow. “Slow start? That’s one way to put it. But you definitely found your groove. I was impressed.”

“Hey, I’m not perfect,” Paige said, rolling her eyes. “But you know how it is. Nerves. Playing in front of everyone with… you know, you in the crowd.” She didn’t really know how to say it without sounding like a total mess, but Azzi just nodded like she understood, no big deal.

They made their way down the street, with Azzi walking just a little bit ahead of Paige. Azzi was quiet, observing the world around her with the calculated calm she always carried with her. Even now, after watching Paige play, she was still analyzing, assessing.

“So, yeah,” Paige started, trying to fill the silence, “what did you think of my shooting tonight? I felt like I missed a bunch early, but I found it eventually.”

Azzi glanced over at her, her lips curling into the smallest smile. “I mean, you were taking shots from everywhere. Some of them were a little rushed early on, but you adjusted. Your footwork on that step-back three was solid. You just need to stay patient and trust the shot.”

Paige felt a little relieved, hearing Azzi’s constructive take on it. She didn’t want to come off like she was fishing for compliments, but it felt good to hear that the tweaks she’d made in her head were obvious to Azzi.

“Yeah, I was thinking too much,” Paige admitted, rubbing the back of her neck. “Once I stopped caring so much about… I don’t know. I could just play. It’s like something clicked. Then, I couldn’t miss.”

Azzi nodded. “That’s how it goes. Sometimes you’ve got to let go of all that extra stuff and just play.”

They arrived at Ted’s, the place where their team frequently hung out after big games, and Paige immediately ordered hot chips for the table. It wasn’t even a question—she just knew Azzi liked them. She didn’t need to ask. They slid into the booth, a comfortable space, away from the chaos of their teammates who were already deep into drinks and dancing.

Azzi slipped her hoodie off, revealing the black cropped tank beneath. Her arms were toned, and the cool air inside the restaurant made her look effortlessly chic. She adjusted her seat, her gaze falling on the other girls as they shouted and laughed at the bar.

Paige grabbed a shot, but as she took it, Azzi raised a hand. “I’m not drinking,” she said lightly, and Paige immediately set it down, her expression flickering with surprise.

“Alright, no drinks for me either,” Paige said with a shrug, pushing the shot glass away. “Guess we’re just here for the chips then,” Paige added, giving her a wink.

Azzi snorted, looking over at the table as the drinks continued to flow. “You sure about that? Because it looks like half the team is planning on taking shots ‘til they pass out.”

Paige laughed, leaning back in the booth and trying to get comfortable, even as her teammates got more rowdy. “I don’t need to be that wild. Maybe I’ll just have a few more chips instead.”

“Right,” Azzi said, sipping her water. “Because chips are so much better than shots.”

The server came over, bringing the massive bowl of hot chips to their booth, and Paige eagerly grabbed a handful. They ate in quiet contentment, the conversation ebbing and flowing, sometimes about the game, sometimes about nothing at all.

The team’s energy was infectious, but Azzi and Paige were perfectly content in their little bubble. Paige’s arm found its way over Azzi’s shoulders, a natural motion, something unspoken, as they both relaxed into the quiet moment, watching their teammates in the distance.

Azzi leaned in a little, her cheek resting against Paige’s shoulder, the gesture so simple, but it felt like they had been doing it forever. Paige’s heart fluttered at the gesture, but she didn’t overthink it. She simply put her arm around Azzi like it was the most natural thing in the world.

—---------------------------------

As Paige and Azzi continued to settle into their little corner of the restaurant, the noise from the team started to blur into a distant hum. It felt like they were in a bubble, just the two of them, a quiet, contented space that Paige had no intention of leaving anytime soon. Paige’s arm was still casually draped over Azzi’s shoulder, and the contact felt so natural, like it had always been this way. Azzi had leaned into the touch, her head resting lightly against Paige’s shoulder, the faintest hint of a smile on her lips.

The clinking of glasses and laughter from the rest of the team rang out across the room, but it felt like they were in a world of their own. Paige’s heart raced a little faster every time Azzi shifted slightly closer, and she had to stop herself from overthinking it.

Just as Paige was about to say something, Caroline’s voice cut through the cozy atmosphere, full of energy and more than a little tipsy.

“Hey, you 2!” Caroline’s words were a little louder than intended, and her presence swayed across the booth like a gust of wind. She was grinning, clearly enjoying the drinks she’d had so far. She leaned in toward the 2 of them, practically collapsing onto the table with a half-laugh, half-giggle. “What’s going on over here, huh? You 2 lovebirds look way too cozy.”

Paige immediately felt her face heat up. She was trying so hard not to overthink it with Azzi, but now Caroline’s teasing was making it ten times worse. “What are you even talking about?” Paige’s voice was a little higher than usual as she glanced at Azzi, who remained leaned against her shoulder.

“I mean, look at you two,” Caroline teased, waving a hand around dramatically, her eyes sparkling from the alcohol. “You’re, like, totally in sync right now. This is a new level of cute. Someone get the cameras, I’m shipping it.”

Azzi, though her face was flushed from the warmth of the moment, just rolled her eyes with a tiny smile. “You’re drunk, Caroline.”

“Am not!” Caroline retorted immediately, before bursting into a fit of giggles. “Okay, maybe I am. But seriously, you 2? This is precious. It’s like you’re both the same person but in different outfits, you know?” She looked between them, giving them a knowing wink.

Paige couldn’t help but laugh. “You’re insane, Caroline,” she muttered, but the smile on her face betrayed her.

Caroline leaned forward, elbows on the table, her eyes twinkling mischievously. “No, I’m right, Paige. I know exactly what’s going on here. I’ve seen this movie. You’re, like, one step away from making it official. I’m here for it.” She raised an eyebrow, clearly proud of herself for her “wisdom.”

Azzi, still tucked into Paige’s side, let out a soft laugh. “Well, you’re wrong, but thanks for the insight.”

Caroline tilted her head dramatically, as if considering this. “Ok, ok, I get it. No labels. Yet.” She sat back, pouting slightly before giving Paige an exaggerated wink. “But you gotta admit, it’s pretty cute.”

Before Paige could respond, Aubrey came swaggering over, clearly on a mission. She was holding a tray full of shot glasses in one hand, her other arm draped over a teammate who was stumbling behind her. “Shots, anyone?!” Aubrey announced loudly, her voice booming across the table.

She slid into the booth beside Caroline, her grin mischievous. “Paige, I know you usually don’t pass up a drink after a game, what’s up with you tonight?” She eyed the untouched beer in front of Paige with a raised eyebrow. “You’re not telling me you’ve gone soft on me now, are you?”

Paige’s lips parted, unsure how to answer, but Azzi’s voice cut in before she could. “She’s just here with me,” Azzi said with a shrug, a soft smile playing at her lips. “No need for the shots.”

Aubrey raised an eyebrow, glancing between the 2 of them, clearly sensing something more than. “Ohh, I get it now,” she said with a teasing tone, but she was far too drunk to make it anything more than a playful remark. “You 2 are real cute. Alright, no shots for you then.”

Caroline laughed and stood up, wobbling a bit. “Imma go join the others,” she said, clearly not paying attention to the fact that she was still holding onto a shot glass. She waved, drunkenly tipping over to another table. “Enjoy,” she called out, giving them both a cheesy wink before stumbling away.

Aubrey lingered for a moment longer before turning to Paige with a raised glass. “Don’t forget, you’re still my partner in crime, alright?” She smiled and then wandered back into the mix of the team, disappearing into the crowd.

As soon as the noise of the bar filled the space again, Azzi finally leaned back into Paige’s side, her cheek resting lightly on Paige’s shoulder once more. Paige smiled down at her, her heart still racing from the attention, but also grateful for the quiet.

“So,” Azzi said, her voice soft but clear. “What do you think? Ice cream?”

Paige blinked, momentarily caught off guard. “Ice cream?” she asked with a smile, still processing the energy of the last few minutes.

Azzi nodded eagerly, her excitement apparent. “Yeah, I’m craving some. I don’t know why, but I can’t stop thinking about it.”

Paige grinned, feeling a spark of energy at the idea. “Well, if you’re craving it, I’m definitely down.” She gave a quick look to her teammates still sitting at the table—Sarah, Allie, and Morgan—who weren’t drinking and were busy having a quieter conversation. Paige stood up, grabbing Azzi’s hand with a soft tug. “Let’s go tell them, make sure they’re cool, and then we can head out.”

Azzi looked up at her, her eyes lighting up at the idea of leaving the craziness behind for a little while. “I’m so down.”

Paige waved to the table of freshmen, who were all sitting together, and walked over to them with Azzi at her side. She leaned in and whispered, “We’re heading out for ice cream, you guys good here? Make sure everyone else is fine, alright?” She glanced back at the table full of noise and chaos.

Sarah, Allie, and Morgan looked up, nodding with understanding. “Yea, we got it,” Sarah said with a grin, her eyes glancing over at the wild energy of their teammates. “Go get that ice cream, we’ll make sure the rest of them don’t do anything stupid.”

Paige smiled and gave a quick nod before turning to Azzi, her heart racing with excitement. “Alright, let’s go.”

Azzi gave her a smile that made everything feel even better. “Let’s get ice cream.”

The night air hit them as soon as they stepped outside, crisp and cool against their flushed cheeks. The sky was a deep navy, scattered with stars barely visible against the glow of the campus lights. Paige immediately reached for the zipper of her jacket, tugging it up just a bit, but next to her, Azzi shivered slightly.

Without a word, Azzi pulled the same hoodie she’d worn earlier and slipped it back on. Her fingers worked quickly, tugging it over her head before she stuffed her hands into the front pocket with a little sigh. The hoodie was a bit oversized, the sleeves just brushing her knuckles, and it made her look even cozier. Paige glanced over, smiling quietly to herself.

“Cold?” Paige asked, even though it was obvious.

Azzi nodded, blowing out a puff of air that hung briefly in front of them like fog. “I thought it was gonna be warmer tonight. Rookie mistake.”

“You were inside a packed restaurant full of drunk 20-somethings,” Paige said, nudging her lightly with her elbow. “It probably felt like summer in there.”

Azzi gave a soft laugh, bumping her back gently. “Yea, well… my body regrets that confidence.”

They started down the path toward the main strip near campus, their steps naturally in sync without either of them trying. It was one of those peaceful silences, the kind that didn’t need to be filled. Paige kept glancing sideways at Azzi every now and then, not even meaning to—just checking in, like her brain hadn’t caught up to the fact that they’d actually left together. Just the 2 of them.

“You ever notice how food cravings hit way harder after games? How I felt back in my basketball days.” Azzi asked suddenly, her voice casual.

Paige grinned. “Literally every time. I’ll finish a game, chug half a Gatorade, and 10 minutes later I’m like, ‘You know what sounds good? 17 pancakes.’”

Azzi snorted. “You would eat 17 pancakes.”

“If the stakes were high enough? Hell yea.”

“What stakes would require 17 pancakes?”

“World peace. Or, like… if someone dared me.”

Azzi laughed, the kind of laugh that crinkled her eyes and made Paige’s chest feel a little too tight for a second.

They turned the corner toward the strip of late-night food spots, the ice cream place glowing warm and welcoming. It was mostly empty inside, just a couple people scattered in booths. Paige held the door open, letting Azzi step in first, and they both headed straight to the counter.

“I’m going mint chocolate chip,” Paige said confidently. “I need that refreshing hit. Cleans the soul.”

Azzi gave her a look. “It tastes like toothpaste.”

“That’s slander. You’re just uncultured.”

Azzi raised her eyebrows. “Uncultured? I’ll have you know I’m a chocolate traditionalist.”

“Boring,” Paige muttered, grinning.

Azzi stuck out her tongue. “Delicious.”

Paige paid for both of them and got their cones and walked back out into the night. The cold air was a little sharper now, but it was quiet, peaceful. They strolled aimlessly, just enjoying the calmness.

About halfway through her cone, Paige paused. They were walking near the rec center, and just beyond the sidewalk, the outdoor court sat under the dim glow of overhead lights. It was deserted at this hour, just the faint echo of music from someone’s speaker in the distance. And right there, abandoned like it had fallen from the sky, was a basketball.

Paige’s eyes lit up.

“Ohhhhh,” she said, already veering off the path. “Look at that. Fate.”

Azzi followed her gaze. “What, the ball?”

“Yep.” Paige scooped it up with one hand, spinning it in her palm. “You know what this means.”

Azzi raised an eyebrow, licking her ice cream. “That some rec bro forgot his ball?”

Paige pointed the ball at her dramatically. “That we have been chosen by the basketball Gods to honour this sacred space.”

Azzi gave her a look that was about 90% amusement and 10% fake disbelief. “You’re such a dork.”

Paige smirked. “A dork who can cross you up in one try.”

Azzi took another bite of her ice cream and said with the straightest face possible, “Let me finish this chocolate masterpiece, and then you can embarrass yourself.”

Paige laughed and bumped her gently with her hip, careful not to knock her cone. “You’re lucky I’m letting you warm up first.”

They wandered toward the edge of the court but didn’t step on it just yet, choosing instead to sit on the bench nearby and enjoy their cones. Paige took a dramatic bite of her mint chocolate chip, shivering exaggeratedly like she’d just ascended to flavor heaven.

“Tell me that’s not the most refreshing thing ever.”

Azzi stared at her. “It’s literally minty milk.”

“It’s rejuvenating,” Paige insisted, licking the drip that slid down the side.

Azzi grinned, taking a bite of her chocolate. “You know what’s rejuvenating? Something that doesn’t taste like mouthwash.”

“You’re so wrong it physically hurts me.”

They both laughed, their knees lightly touching where they sat side by side. Neither moved away.

Paige leaned back slightly, balancing the basketball on her knee. “You know, this night didn’t suck.”

Azzi gave a quiet hum of agreement. “Yeah. It really didn’t.”

Paige looked over at her. There was a peace about her right now, something soft and grounded. Paige looked away before she could linger too long.

“You still good for balling after this?” she asked, trying to sound casual.

Azzi licked the edge of her cone, then gave her a sideways glance. “I was born ready. I just didn’t know I’d be playing in a hoodie and jeans.”

“I mean, I’m in Jordans and vibes. We’ll survive.”

Azzi snorted. “Jordans and vibes? That should be your next Instagram caption.”

“Please, like I’d waste that level of genius on a random post.”

They sat in companionable silence for another minute, each of them working through the last of their cones. Paige’s fingers were a little sticky, her mouth tingling from the cold. Azzi was licking the last bit of chocolate from the tip of her cone with a soft hum of satisfaction.

“Alright,” Paige said, standing up and tossing her napkin into a nearby trash can. She spun the ball once in her hands and looked down at Azzi, a playful glint in her eyes. “Game on?”

Azzi stood slowly, brushing the crumbs from her hands, hoodie sleeves flopping slightly over her fingers. “Game on.”

And with that, they stepped onto the court, just two silhouettes under the glow of the campus lights, still riding the warmth of laughter and sugar. The night wasn’t over just yet.

The basketball echoed softly against the court as Paige bounced the ball a couple of times, her eyes narrowing playfully at Azzi. They’d gone from laughing and joking to this, a one-on-one game. Azzi was looking at her like she was about to put up a fight, and that… that was exactly what Paige needed.

“You sure you’re ready for this?” Paige grinned, dribbling the ball between her legs, flashing a quick, confident look at Azzi. “I warned you, I’m in elite form tonight.”

Azzi crossed her arms, leaning back against the court’s outer boundary, watching Paige with a mix of amusement and skepticism. “Elite, huh? We’ll see how ‘elite’ you are when you can’t keep up with me.”

“Oh, it’s on,” Paige said, eyes locking onto Azzi’s with playful intensity.

The first point was quick. Paige faked right, then spun left, finishing with a smooth layup. “Boom. 1-0, me.”

Azzi didn’t miss a beat, bouncing the ball with a practiced hand. “Yeah, you’re real smooth. Let’s see if you can keep that up.”

The game quickly turned into an all-out battle. Paige was fast and agile, but Azzi wasn’t letting her off the hook. With every move, Azzi made Paige work harder. At one point, Paige tried to fake a jumper but Azzi was right in her face, her hand up, challenging her to make the shot.

“Oh shit, you’re not gonna let me get anything easy, are you?” Paige grunted, trying to slip around Azzi’s defense but failing as Azzi’s hand swatted the ball away.

“Not a chance,” Azzi grinned, stealing the ball and dribbling it down the court with fluid ease, taking her own shot for 1-1.

They kept exchanging points like that. Paige, despite all the cocky smirks and back-and-forth banter, couldn’t deny Azzi was holding her own. 

The score was tied at 8-8, and Paige was starting to feel the burn.

“Fuck,” she muttered under her breath, wiping a bead of sweat from her forehead. “I’m sore as hell. My legs are still feeling that game earlier.”

Azzi, not buying the excuse, shot her a sly look. “Sore, huh? You seem fine to me.”

“I’m telling you,” Paige huffed, bending slightly at the waist. “If I’m not careful, I’ll pull something. Might even tear my hamstring.”

Azzi rolled her eyes. “Uh huhhhh. Sure.”

“Ok, look,” Paige said, stepping back to reset, “Maybe a little hamstring tear will help with your defense.”

Azzi smirked, taking a deep breath before getting back into position. “That so? Bring it.”

It wasn’t long before they were back at it, and Paige, feeling the heat of the competition, decided to pull out some tricks. On the next possession, she faked a shot and instead went for a quick spin to the right, aiming for an easy drive to the basket.

But Azzi, as usual, was right there, her hand shooting up to contest the shot. They collided, their bodies pressing together in defense, and Paige let out a surprised laugh, nearly losing her balance. “Damn, Azzi, no need to get so handsy.”

Azzi shot her a knowing grin. “What can I say? I play d like a pro.”

They were up to 12-12 now, and Paige was starting to feel the pressure. Azzi wasn’t giving her an inch, and Paige’s energy was starting to flag.

She came up with an idea—tickling. As Azzi came at her with her signature defense stance, arms wide, Paige couldn’t help but smirk.

As Azzi lunged to block, Paige slipped a hand under her ribs, giving a quick poke. Azzi jumped, her posture faltering for just a second, which was all Paige needed. “Gotcha!” Paige yelled, driving for the basket and scoring easily. “That’s 13-12, baby!”

Azzi shot her a playful glare, shaking her head as she bounced the ball. “You are so lucky that was a game move.”

Paige laughed, throwing her hands up in mock victory. “I’m just that good.”

Azzi came back with a vengeance, charging at Paige like a freight train. “Oh, you think you’re good?” she teased, getting in Paige’s face, her arms up in perfect defensive form. Paige stepped back, trying to pull off another quick move, but Azzi stayed glued to her like a shadow.

Paige could feel her exhaustion creeping in, her muscles sore from the earlier game, the endless dribbling, and now the added pressure of Azzi’s perfect defense. “Shit,” Paige grunted, trying to push past her. “No way. I’m not losing this.”

Azzi grinned. “We’ll see. It’s 16-15 now, so you better pull something out of your bag of tricks.”

Paige wiped her forehead again, eyeing the ball. She was getting cocky, maybe a little too cocky. “Watch and learn,” she muttered, then launched herself into a spin move, faking a pass to her left and then driving right.

Azzi wasn’t fooled. She blocked the shot cleanly, sending the ball flying off toward the side. “Not so fast, superstar,” she taunted, scooping the ball and taking it to the hoop. She finished the layup, making it 17-15.

Paige’s jaw dropped. “What the hell? That was supposed to be my shot!”

Azzi shrugged, clearly pleased with herself. “Guess you’re not as elite as you thought.”

Now Paige was scrambling. “Oh, it’s on, Azzi. I’m about to turn this around.”

But it was too late. Azzi, cool and composed, didn’t let up. With every move, Paige felt herself getting slower, her excuses sounding weaker. Finally, after a contested shot, Azzi knocked it down to make the score 19-15. The game was almost over.

“You good?” Azzi teased, eyes sparkling with playful victory. “You sure you don’t want to just give up now?”

“No fucking way,” Paige snapped, trying to dig deep, but it was clear the fight was out of her.

Azzi crossed her arms, leaning against the hoop with a smug grin. “1 point left. You ready to admit defeat?”

Paige put her hands on her knees, out of breath and just a little defeated, but still smiling. “Alright, alright. You’re gonna make me do the walk of shame, huh?”

Azzi raised an eyebrow. “Yup. And when you do, you can call me ‘the one who took you down.’”

Paige scoffed, trying one last desperate shot, but Azzi was right there. She grabbed the ball and bounced it once before driving to the basket and finishing with a smooth layup.

The game was over.

“20-15,” Azzi said, grinning. “You didn’t even come close in the end.”

Paige sank to her knees dramatically, holding a hand to her chest like she’d just played the game of her life. “Alright, you win. But next time? I’m going all out. No excuses.”

Azzi laughed, offering a hand to Paige to help her up. “I’ll believe it when I see it.”

Paige grinned and grabbed her hand, pulling herself up. “You’ve been warned. I’m gonna get you back for this.”

Azzi raised her eyebrow, chuckling. “I’m looking forward to it.”

The sound of their heavy breathing slowly filled the quiet space between them as they both collapsed onto the bench, feeling the cool night air wrap around them like a soft blanket. The basketball court lay empty now, the only sound being the occasional squeak of their shoes shifting as they stretched their legs, their bodies sore from the intense game.

Paige wiped her forehead with the back of her hand, breathing in deeply, trying to catch her breath. She couldn’t help but chuckle at how worked up they both had gotten. The whole game had been a battle, but somehow, the competition had felt like nothing more than a way to spend time with Azzi. They were both sweaty and exhausted, but there was something calming about the stillness now that the game was over.

Azzi, sitting beside her, leaned back, staring up at the stars. The light from the nearby lampposts bathed their surroundings in a soft, golden glow, making everything seem peaceful. Azzi’s gaze drifted to the sky, her face a little more relaxed now that the adrenaline was fading.

“You know,” Paige said, breaking the silence, “I don’t think I’ve ever had a game quite like that. You actually made me work for every point.”

Azzi tilted her head slightly, a smile tugging at her lips. “I told you, you weren’t gonna get anything easy tonight.”

Paige grinned, leaning back on the bench, her eyes following the stars as well. “Yeah, you sure weren’t kidding. I’ve got to give it to you, Azzi. You’ve got some serious game.”

Azzi shrugged, her eyes still locked on the stars. “It’s nothing, really. Just the usual. I’ve played for a  long time.” She paused, and for a second, her voice softened. “But you… you’ve got a real competitive streak. I can’t say I didn’t enjoy it.”

Paige’s heart skipped a beat at the sincerity in Azzi’s voice. She wanted to say something more, to ask her what she meant, but instead, she just nodded, taking in the peacefulness of the moment. They sat in a comfortable silence for a while, just staring up at the vastness above them, listening to the occasional rustling of the trees in the distance.

A few moments passed, and Paige couldn’t help but feel a pull to Azzi. She looked over at her, noticing the soft curve of her neck and the way the moonlight seemed to highlight her profile. Without really thinking, Paige shifted a little closer, her leg brushing against Azzi’s, the faintest of touches.

Azzi didn’t pull away. Instead, she subtly leaned into Paige’s side, her shoulder gently bumping against hers. Paige’s pulse quickened slightly, but she didn’t move away. She wanted to stay right there, close to Azzi.

After a beat, Azzi shifted even closer, her head resting gently on Paige’s shoulder. Paige’s breath caught in her throat, and she could feel the warmth of Azzi’s presence seeping into her. It felt natural, easy, like they’d been sitting this way for years.

Paige’s arm moved instinctively, draping over Azzi’s shoulder. Her fingers brushed lightly against the soft fabric of Azzi’s hoodie, then lightly caressed her, almost as if to reassure herself that this was real. It was a small gesture, but it felt significant, as if it were something more than just a casual touch.

Azzi let out a soft sigh, her eyes fluttering closed as she settled deeper into Paige’s side. “I’m a little tired,” she admitted, her voice quieter than usual. “But… I don’t really want to leave yet. This is nice.”

Paige’s heart fluttered, a small smile curling at the corners of her lips. She couldn’t explain why, but hearing Azzi say that, in that tone of voice, made her feel… warm. Safe. She felt her own exhaustion creeping up on her, but she wanted to savor this moment just a little longer.

“I get it,” Paige murmured, her voice low and soft. She tilted her head slightly, resting her cheek gently on the top of Azzi’s head. Her hair was soft against Paige’s skin, and the feeling of Azzi so close made Paige’s chest tighten in a way that was almost unexplainable.

Azzi shifted slightly, her breath even and calm, and Paige’s heart fluttered again at the closeness between them. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d felt so… connected to someone like this. There was something about Azzi that made her want to protect her, to keep her close, and it wasn’t just the competitive edge that had drawn her in during the game. No, this felt different. Something deeper.

The two of them just sat there in the quiet, the only sound was their breathing and the faint hum of the world around them. Paige didn’t want to break the silence, not yet. It felt perfect. Just being with Azzi like this, in this moment, was all she needed.

—---------------------------------

The night had grown even quieter, the sounds of the world fading into the background as the two of them sat there, still and content. Azzi’s breathing had become slower, more even, and before Paige even realized it, Azzi’s head had tilted slightly, resting more comfortably against her shoulder. Paige noticed the softness of Azzi’s breath against her skin, the way her body had relaxed completely, sinking into the warmth of their shared space. Azzi was falling asleep.

Paige’s heart fluttered again, but this time, it was with an overwhelming sense of protectiveness. She watched her for a few moments, unable to tear her eyes away from the peaceful look on Azzi’s face. She almost didn’t want to disturb her, not when things felt this good, this right. But as time passed, Paige felt her own exhaustion creeping back in, and she knew it was time to head back to their dorms.

She carefully shifted, adjusting her arm around Azzi’s shoulder, and gently nudged her. “Hey… Azzi,” she murmured softly, a little hesitant, not wanting to disrupt the calm atmosphere they’d settled into. “You should get some real sleep. You can’t just crash here.”

Azzi stirred, blinking sleepily. She rubbed her eyes, groaning softly as she adjusted herself, her face still nestled against Paige’s shoulder. “Mmm… it’s fine,” she mumbled, her voice thick with the remnants of sleep. “I’m good.”

Paige smiled softly, amused by how stubborn Azzi could be. “I know you’re good, but I’m walking you back to your dorm,” she said, a gentle firmness in her voice. “Come on, let’s go. It’s just a 10 minute walk.”

Azzi gave a half-hearted sigh but didn’t argue. “You really don’t have to—” she started, but Paige was already standing, pulling Azzi to her feet with a gentle hand on her back.

“I know, but I want to,” Paige said, grinning. “It’s just a short walk. Plus, I get to spend a little more time with you, so I’m good.”

Azzi chuckled softly, adjusting the sleeve of her hoodie, but let Paige guide her toward the path that led to her dorm. The walk was quiet but comfortable, the night air still warm enough for them to walk side by side without shivering. Paige kept glancing at Azzi, noticing how tired she looked but also how content. It made something inside Paige stir, something she couldn’t quite place but knew she didn’t want to let go of.

—---------------------------------

When they finally reached Azzi’s dorm, Paige stopped at the entrance, her hand resting on the doorframe. Azzi turned to face her, eyes still a little heavy from sleep, but a soft smile tugged at her lips.

“Thanks for walking me back,” Azzi said quietly, her voice low but sincere. “And for the game tonight. It was… fun. I really needed it.”

Paige smiled, her heart doing a little flip at Azzi’s words. “No problem,” she said, voice soft. “Thanks for coming out, Azzi. It was… honestly one of the best parts of my day.”

Azzi looked at her for a moment, her gaze lingering, and then, without saying anything more, she stepped forward and wrapped her arms around Paige in a slow, steady hug. Paige froze for just a second, her arms instinctively going around Azzi’s back. The warmth between them felt different this time. Deeper. Something unspoken passed between them, something soft and vulnerable.

Azzi held the hug a little longer than usual, her cheek resting gently against Paige’s, and Paige couldn’t help but feel a rush of emotions swirl in her chest. When they finally pulled away, Azzi gave a small, almost shy smile. “You wanna come over tomorrow?” she asked, her voice casual, but Paige could hear the quiet invitation behind her words. “Just to hang out. Not for tutoring or anything. I’ll make you coffee, or whatever.”

Paige blinked for a moment, surprised by the offer, but the thought of spending more time with Azzi made her pulse quicken. “Yeah,” she said, her voice soft but certain. “I’d like that.”

Azzi smiled again, a little more brightly this time. “Cool. I’ll text you when I wake up.”

Paige felt a warmth spread through her chest, and for a brief moment, she didn’t know what to say. She just stood there, looking at Azzi with a soft smile, her heart pounding in her chest.

Azzi, still blinking a little, smiled back, a quiet but genuine expression on her face. There was something in the way they stood there, something that made Paige feel like this moment was more than just a goodbye. It was the kind of silence that said everything and nothing all at once.

“Well,” Paige started, clearing her throat, “I guess I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Azzi nodded, her smile still lingering. “Yea, tomorrow. Goodnight, Paige.”

“Goodnight, Azzi,” Paige replied softly, giving her one last lingering glance before Azzi walked back into her dorm.

As she made her way down the path, she could feel the warmth of their moments still radiating through her chest. It wasn’t much, but it was enough. A spark of something she couldn’t quite name, but one she was more than willing to explore.

And as she walked, Paige couldn’t help but think—tomorrow was something she was already looking forward to. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[l1tw1ck]

Compromised

Bottom!FTM Peter Parker x Top!Villain CEO!Masc Reader

🕸️ Word Count: 1,226 🕸️

AFAB Language Used | this *might* become a multi-chapter fic but this part won't be canon, i changed my mind after i started the second chapter and this wouldn't fit 😭 so just treat it as a oneshot

CW: Non-Con, Kidnapping, Drugging, Blood, Virginity Loss, Cunnilingus, Creampie

Peter looks up at you with blurry vision, his body bruised and bloody. He can barely move.

You rip off his mask. “Aren't you the one who works for Jameson? I always knew your pictures were too good.” You chuckle. “You are cute though.”

He's fading in and out of consciousness, he can barely comprehend your words.

“I’ll be taking you home with me.”

Peter slowly opens his eyes, still feeling dizzy and weak. He looks down and fear instantly hits him. He's completely naked and tied up. He looks around the room for anything to help him while trying to break his restraints with brute force.

The noise draws you inside.

“Yo- you-” He recognizes you. The CEO of a company that rivals Stark Industries and Oscorp.

“I have a plan for you, Parker.” You walk over to him. “I’ll let you live and I won't tell a soul about your identity. In return, you'll help me take down Stark Industries.”

“Kidnapping someone isn't really a great way to propose a partnership, you know.” He manages to keep up his persona, trying to calculate how he can get out of this.

“Well, appealing to you isn't a part of my plan. How you feel about this doesn't matter to me. You won't have a choice once my subordinate gets his hands on you.”

“Wh- what are you gonna do to me?”

You slowly untie him. “Just a little memory altering. I’d love to train you but there's not enough time…it’s too bad.” You brush his hair to the side. He tries to hit you but it's too difficult, he only grazes your cheek. You laugh at his attempt and grab his wrists. “Don't worry, I won't hurt you after today. You’ll be spoiled rotten. My special little spider.”

“No– no! Don't touch me!” He squirms around in your hold.

“I should've known a single dose wouldn't be effective enough.” You let go of him and turn to the supply cart next to him. He tries to shoot a web to stop you from whatever you’re trying to do, but only a weak spurt leaves his wrist. He then attempts to get on the ground and crawl. You ignore him and prepare his next injection. He feels humiliated as he continues to crawl towards the door. The fact that you're not even looking at him tells him that he doesn't have a chance. But he tries anyway.

He only ends up a couple inches away from where he started when you ‘catch’ him and turn him around. You use one hand to pin his arms above his head and use the other to inject a serum meant to sedate and arouse him. “Don't worry, Peter, you won't remember any of this. If that makes you feel better. I just wanna have some fun with you first.” You toss the empty syringe.

“Get- get away from me–” He tries everything he can to hurt you but his remaining strength is starting to dwindle as the serum runs through his body. You pry his legs apart and stick your head in between. You drag your tongue up his folds then lovingly suck on his dick. You bring your hands to his chest and circle his sensitive nipples. He subconsciously raises his hips and whimpers.

“No- no- no-” He shakes his head, crying. He doesn't want to lose his virginity like this, not here, not to you. “Uhn~” His toes curl. His spidey senses are going off, making it even harder to think. The drug is making the spider parts of him go haywire, it's not working properly. It's aggressively ringing all the alarm bells inside him. His webs weakly shoot out of his wrists like a deflating balloon. His head is pounding. His brain is yelling at him.

Defend yourself. Hurt them. Kill them. Call for help. Run. Give in. Give in.

Give in.

It feels so good. It feels so good.

I wanna come. I wanna come.

His hands stick to the ground, his legs spread further apart, his mouth hangs open to sing noisy, wordless praises to compliment your skill.

“Stop!” He cries out.

Don't stop. Don't stop!

Yes!

Peter gasps, his hips jerking upwards as he squirts on your face. His head presses against the floor. His body trembles. Then he calms down.

He raises his head and looks at you as you pull away from him. His eyes follow your hands as they unzip your pants. As they free your hard dick. As they direct it onto his wet pussy. Then he focuses on your cock. Your length. Your girth.

I want it.

“No-” His voice trembles. “Don't- don't put that- inside me!”

Shove it inside me. I need it. Fill me. Mold my body to fit you. Ruin me.

The head of your cock slowly breaches him. Peter’s webs shoot out like a can of silly string on its last legs. Weak little spurts continue to leave him. Both from his wrist and from his cunt. He feels weaker every time.

It hurts. It’s too big. It hurts.

“It's interesting to see how your body reacts to the drug.” You wipe the tears from his eyes. “It's too bad I won't be using it again…Although I am interested in what’ll happen once my subordinate alters your memories…maybe I’ll tell them to make you an obedient slut for me.”

Own me.

“Ple- please-” He gasps. He's not entirely sure what he's begging for. His brain is sending conflicting messages.

You lean into his ear. “Admit it, Spidey, you love how big I am and how well I fill your tight fucking pussy.”

I love it.

“I hate– ugh-” He hisses.

I'm so full.

“I’ll kill you..” He clenches his fists.

“Oh, but I thought Spider-Man didn't kill?”

“..ma- make an exception-” He loses his ability to grip, his fists come undone as you bottom out.

“Really? I’m honored, sweetheart.” You slowly pull out, stopping before you fully leave him. “You're bleeding. Guess I was too rough.” You lick your lips at the red coating on your cock.

“You're disg—uh~!” You suddenly thrust inside him and knock the wind out of him, a longer string of web leaving his body. His whimpering and gasping quickly turns into whines and moans as you fuck him. His eyes roll to the back of his head. The bandage and wound on his cheek loosens and opens up, causing blood to run down his face. His brain starts to feel like scrambled eggs.

“Doesn't it feel good, baby?”

He responds with a jumbled mess of words that are impossible to decipher. You already took a bunch of pictures of him earlier but you find yourself wishing you still had that camera with you. In this state, he's more beautiful than any of the artwork in the Metropolitan. You grab his sides, triggering the pain in his sore, bruised body. He makes a loud and erotic noise in response.

He writhes around, sobbing and trying to squirm out of your hold. He manages to say “Please–!”.

“Since you asked so nicely.” Your thrusts stop as you come inside him. You let go of him and brush the hair out of his face, then wipe his blood.

His body twitches, like a spider that's been stepped on.

[augustsblossom]

Hiii 👋🩷 I would like to request a Mark Grayson fic where he’s like unnaturally warm because he’s half viltrimite and he uses his hands as like a heating pad for reader who is suffering from cramps

Just like super fluffy cuddles and sweetness

Take your time bestie and thank you for writing for this fandom 🩷🩷🩷 (there really aren’t enough Mark fics😭😭😭) 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷

THIS IS SO CUTE STOOOPP AND thank you so much!! There fr isn’t enough so I’m rolling up my sleeve and getting to work

── ── ── ── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ── ── ── ──

˚ ༘ *ೃ⁀➷ main! Mark Grayson x afab! reader

˚ ༘ *ೃ⁀➷ a/n: I appreciate the requests you guys have been sending me! This is very self insert lowkey so if you don’t like horror movies or pumpkin scents just imagine what you do like! This also is in NO WAY reader intentionally being a bitch to the sweet boy like I said I’m projecting and I get snappy when I’m on mine </33 inbox me if you guys have ideas ily! <3

˚ ༘ *ೃ⁀➷ CW: fluff!!!, She/her pronouns aren’t used but reader does get periods lol, reader is cranky when they’re menstruating (I’m self projecting), mark just puts his hands on readers lower stomach, mark is very patient and reader feels bad lolol

˚ ༘ *ೃ⁀➷ IMPORTANT: constructive criticism is encouraged! I’m always looking to make my fics better or to make it more enjoyable for you guys so if there’s anything I can do or fix, comment or inbox me! I want to make it as best as I can for yall <3 it’s also not proofread again I’m hoping you guys can uncode what it means

˚ ༘ *ೃ⁀➷ taglist: @realmcflurry1 (lmk if you wanna be in the next one!)

── ── ── ── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ── ── ── ──

So like, imagine a semi full of bricks coming at you full speed right, but instead of crashing normally it crashes RIGHT into your lower stomach and puts it all there

Oh and with that imagine a doctor has a handful of needles and they just shove it all in your uterus…

Yeah you are DONE FOR BABEEE

But hey at least you have your super sweet geeky boyfriend to help with that right!!

It’s hard for him to be a superhero but it’s hard when you don’t have your boyfriend around!

Cecil has him working to the damn BONE and he will not give that poor boy a break!

So of course you feel bad when you start having an attitude and getting snappy at him, but no one blames you for it you’re in so much pain!!!

Mark finally had a day off where he didn’t need to be “invincible” for a day, you loved it so much but you hated it landed on a day your period started

Those cramps were KILLING you and they hit like a damn lightning drop ok it was horrid but Mark was there for you!

He recently just got back from a store trip you asked him to make, getting you chocolates, chips tampons and pads (he made the “what size pussy you wear 😂” joke and you didn’t laugh so he apologized and said it was cringe, you’re never forgetting it)

He walked in your shared room with the bags in hand a warm smile on his face

“Hey pretty” Mark says softly, sitting the bag on the bed and kissing your forehead as you’re curled up with the blanket covering to your nose

You open your eyes slowly and look at him

“Hi.” You said shortly, kind of side eyeing him but like not in a trying to in a bitchy way you’re just in pain yknow?

Anyways, he gave you a bit of a confused look then left to change into a shirt and sweats. He came back shortly and laid in bed next you

“Wanna watch something? Netflix added new horror movies!” He said with enthusiasm

“I don’t care, we can watch whatever.” You say shortly again.

Good god the patience that man had for you was INSANNEEEE. He would never be this patient with anyone else, especially Cecil and even sometimes Debbie, but he had so much for you, you just felt terrible.

He softly said okay and put on your favorite. After laying in silence for a moment, your back was still facing him when you asked

“Mark…”

“What’s up?”

“….do you hate me even though I was being mean”

Marks brows furrowed as he looked towards you

“Huh?”

You turn to look at him with literally the puppy dog looking eyes and a frown on your face

“I’m sorry. I was being so mean I just don’t feel well and everything hurts so bad and it’s not your fault and I love you so much and never want you to leave me I hate being mean I’m so-“

Okay babe you can shut the fuck up now he gets it.

He let out a giggle, pulling you closer to him and pepper kissing your face

“I understand, you don’t have to explain yourself. I can’t imagine how bad THAT kind of pain is but I don’t blame you at all for it. I also can never hate you, you’re too cute for that” he pepper kisses again

After your little giggle sesh he pulled you even closer so you were caged in, your face against his chest

“If you’d like I can help you with those cramps”

You nod slowly and he turns your entire body so now your back is facing him. He pulled you closer and wrapped his arms around you with one hand on your stomach and the other right above it

His hands were…unnaturally warm. I mean as half-Viltriumite you kinda get that but you loved when he used his powers not only for fighting enemies

The sudden warmth on your stomach made you comfortable, and it was a plus that Mark was cuddling with you too, so forget that heating pad! You have a Mark!

Mark fell asleep first (of course) and you followed shortly after. The burning pumpkin candle blew out on its own after a while, and the movies end credits rolled. The sun was setting and temperature of the room plus you and Mark made everything perfect

Mark does make the doomed week truly better.

[flwrkid14]

That story about Tim being dukes big bro had me like 😭💝💝 do you think Damian eventually gets jealous? He sees Tim taking care of Duke, help the kid with his homework, maybe even make him his favorite food when Alfreds out on a vacation. He sees Tim (Drake), who's often blunt and sarcastic to Damian, look relaxed and happy with Duke. And Damian can't help but to feel sad and resentful. He's improved so much since he first came to Gotham. He wonders why Tim can't see that he has improved, like, "why is it never enough?" But alas, both him and Tim are bad at communicating this.

hi anon !! this idea got me right in the chest.. damian’s not looking for tim’s approval—he never was. but watching how easily tim fits around duke, how natural it is between them… it makes him wonder. maybe he wants something like that, too. i couldn’t stop thinking about it, so here’s what came out. hope you like it !!

Damian never wanted Tim’s approval. not really.

Tim was just there, from the beginning—irritating and smug and sharp-tongued in a way that grated against everything Damian was raised to be. he didn’t admire him. he didn’t want his praise. they were rivals, and maybe always would be.

and for a while, that was enough. it made sense.

but then Duke came.

and Damian isn’t jealous, not at first. he likes Duke. respects him. Duke is steady and bright and disarming in a way that makes people want to be around him. Damian understands why people gravitate toward him.

but then he starts noticing things. little moments, barely there. Tim waiting for Duke outside of patrol. Tim saving him a slice of Alfred’s pie. Tim helping him with his chemistry homework, even though he never offers to help Damian with his Latin translations.

and that’s fine. it’s all fine. it’s just that—

Tim is different with Duke.

softer. warmer. open in a way Damian’s never seen from him. he catches Tim laughing one night—really laughing—over some dumb inside joke Duke made. and something in Damian... stalls.

because he didn’t want Tim’s approval. never needed it. but seeing the way Duke and Tim are with each other—comfortable. close. easy—makes something twist inside him.

maybe it’s not approval he wants.

maybe it’s connection. belonging.

because Damian has grown. he’s changed. he’s worked so hard to be better, and he knows he’s not the same furious, isolated kid who came to Gotham all those years ago. but when he sees Tim lean in when Duke talks, when he sees the way Tim calls him “kid” with affection instead of exasperation—it makes him wonder:

why couldn’t we have had that?

why didn’t we?

and maybe he knows the answer. maybe they were both too guarded. too sharp. too stubborn to ever let the other in.

maybe they said too many things they didn’t mean (or maybe they meant every one, and that’s worse) and now neither of them knows how to take them back.

Damian doesn’t regret who he is. but sometimes, when the manor is quiet and the hallway lights are dim and he hears Duke and Tim talking in the kitchen like brothers, like friends, like something he never let himself want—

he wonders if it’s too late to want it now. because he thinks he does. or maybe he just wants the option to want it.

either way, he doesn’t know how to ask for it. and Tim doesn’t know how to give it. and the silence just keeps growing between them.

[existence-is-a-pain87]

HIIII!!!

Idk if this is where you get your requests-

If it’s not, delete this and sorry!

Anyway! I wanna request for the Self-Aware Cosmo and Sprout! Or just one of the two! Maybe one or both could actually meet the reader?

I LOVE YOUR WRITING!!😭😭❤️

Guys I have so many requests now. Don't get me wrong, I'm thrilled to have people want me to write more, but I'm a wee bit startled by all of this, lol.

So this one is gonna be a bit shorter, lol. (Don't worry I love fulfilling requests! Feel free to send in more!)

Anyways, here's a drabble on Sprout and Cosmo in the self-aware AU from They Hear You!

Friends You Never Knew

Yandere!Self-Aware!Sprout x Reader; Yandere!Self-Aware!Cosmo x Reader

Warnings: Obsession and other general yandere behaviors

--☆☆☆☆☆--

Both were skeptical of you at first. Especially Sprout.

After all, hearing a player speak was completely new. Sure they could see the dialogs sent in the chat, but they never heard anyone's voice.

And when you played as Cosmo? Sprout was not happy.

But then you kept being so happy to play as Cosmo, occasionally rambling about how you'd like to bake with him and Sprout sometime.

So you baked? Hm... maybe you weren't that bad.

And you seemed to adore Cosmo. You called him 'a cutie of a cake roll' and made that poor Toon turn beet red when you weren't looking at his face.

Cosmo didn't know if he could trust you. Especially when Sprout was initially so skeptical. But... he heard how loving you are.

Is it surprising he was the first to warm up to you?

To love you?

--☆☆☆--

Sprout was surprised at how easily he gave in to the urge to love you.

It was so sudden. He was in his Twisted form, skeptical of you even as Cosmo insisted on going onto this floor to show you a medkit as you played a Scraps who was accidentally brought to one heart.

He just wanted to make sure Cosmo would be fine.

But then he heard you crying. Letting out choked sobs as you vented to Scraps about the struggles wearing down on you.

You weren't venting to him, he knew that.

But it sure felt like you were.

And it was in his nature to be nurturing, was it not?

He'd be nurturing to you, helping you grow and eventually be able to move past these struggles with ease.

And so he loved you.

He loved you so much.

--☆☆☆--

It didn't take the two too long to finally accept you were going to be a regular occurrence.

And it didn't take long for them to start to like you.

You playing became a regular occurance. You talking became a regular occurance.

And boy, did they listen.

They listened to every word you said.

And when Vee learned a strange amount of information about you and figured out how to go elsewhere on Roblox? To leave the app and see everything else you fuss about with? And when she told the other Mains?

Sprout was quick to tell Cosmo, and the two left the app.

And promptly read your search history.

They didn't know that wasn't a normal thing to do. If Vee was able to access your phone's microphone to hear and learn more about you, what's the harm in seeing the things you searched up?

They mostly focused on the recipes you searched up. And asked Vee what your favorite food was.

If Dandy was going to actually follow through on his plan...

They learnt how to make you favorite food. And your second favorite food. And your third. And they kept learning how to make foods you liked. Foods you loved.

The way to the heart is through the stomach, is it not?

Cosmo was worried you wouldn't like them. Sprout opted to disagree.

You already spoke of them highly. Why would you suddenly hate them?

You would never hate them, right?

They thought of you as their friends.

You were their friend, yes?

And they loved you.

So, of course, you loved them too!

They're the friends you never knew you had.

They love you.

<3

[airybcby]

I don't know if requests for non event things are open or not but take this as more of an idea😭😭 don't feel complied to write it if you don't want to or can't atm. I reaaaally love ur fics so far and I discovered you through the spotify wrapped event thing. Hope ur asks aren't too flooded from the event tho, it seems like a lot😅 it's rlly impressive you can write so much in like a day. I would get burnt out 😭

Anywho, I just saw a tiktok video (https://vt.tiktok.com/ZS6r5pYuM/) and thought it would be a really cute (and really embarrassing) fanfic idea. I was hoping u could maybe write headcanons or a full on fanfic about the scenario with blue lock characters. Specifically rin, but anyone will be fine if you wanna do multiple characters😋 you can change the "guy friend" bit in the video to bf if u want idrm

Sorry if it was too long😭😭

hi hi!! my asks are open for anything and everything rn (including my event that i’m running rn) tysm!! i just have some days where writing is easier than others, and i can’t stop the word vomit and ideas tbh����

AND HELLO THIS IS SO SILLY AND CUTIE IM OBSESSED

so sorry this has taken so long to get to, my inbox was FLOODED and i'm slowly trying to get through them all!

જ⁀♡⊹｡° if your first kiss goes well...

( rin itoshi x gn! reader )

♡ a/n — airy get through your inbox challenge START! I made it to where rin is your bf and it's kind of new instead of just being a friend :)

♡ word count — 430

♡ content — rin itoshi x gn! reader, established relationship (it's new), written at like midnight so it's prob bad, reader and rin are inexperienced, puppy dog love, maybe ooc rin?, not proofread

♡ synopsis — Rin Itoshi wasn't someone who crumbled. ever. So when you go to his house and hear him watching a video on how to have your first kiss? It's just a little entertaining.

── .✦ act natural, don't press too hard

It was still new, this thing with Rin.

New enough that your heart fluttered every time his hand brushed yours. New enough that when he offered you his bed with a quiet “You can sit,” it felt like more than just politeness.

His room was neat. Lived-in, but still precise—like him. He disappeared into the bathroom after a murmured “Be right back,” taking his phone with him, and you were left to take it all in.

You were just settling in, fingers playing with the hem of his hoodie you’d stolen earlier, when his speaker—still connected to his phone—came to life.

"Hi! Nervous about your first kiss? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered—"

Your eyebrows shot up.

"First, make sure you’re both comfortable. Confidence is key, but don’t worry if you’re nervous—"

You bit your lip to keep from laughing. No way.

The audio cut off a second later. Maybe he paused the video. Maybe he’d noticed the speaker was connected. Either way, you were still smiling when he came back out.

He looked calm. Composed. Like he always did.

But you could feel something different under the surface—something uncertain, maybe even shy—as he stood in front of you, hands shoved in his pockets.

You stood, meeting him halfway. “Hey,” you said softly.

“Hey,” he murmured, eyes flicking to yours.

There was a beat of silence, and then: “Do you… wanna kiss me?”

He didn’t say anything at first. Just blinked. Then gave the smallest nod.

Your heart jumped.

You stepped closer, slowly, carefully. His hands twitched at his sides, but he didn’t pull away when you leaned in, tilting your head just a little.

When your lips met, it was soft. Hesitant. A little uncoordinated, but so full of intent you thought your chest might burst. He kissed you back like he meant it—like he’d been waiting for it.

When you pulled away, his eyes were still half-lidded, dazed.

You smiled, heart racing. “Better than the video?”

“…What?”

You giggled, lifting your hand to point toward the speaker sitting innocently on his nightstand. “That. It was playing your video.”

Rin froze.

Then slowly—painfully—turned to look at the speaker like it had personally betrayed him. His ears flushed pink. “I’m sorry…” he muttered, voice tight, almost ashamed.

You couldn’t help it—you cupped his cheeks in your hands, thumbs brushing over warm skin. “I think it was cute.”

He blinked down at you, and you watched his gaze flicker—first to your eyes, then down to your lips.

You smiled.

“...Another one?”

He didn’t say anything.

Just nodded.

And kissed you again.

this is so cutie i cannot

likes, comments, and reblogs are appreciated!

❀ tags: ❀ @kenyuukissme ❀ @irethepotato ❀ @kiyy0mei ❀ @x3nafix ❀ @sugacor3 ❀ @ohagiyo ❀ @reigensuperstar ❀ @nevvynevnev ❀ join the taglist here !

⋆.˚✮ 2025 ©airybcby ✮˚.⋆

[formulaonecrumbs]

junie! osc and reader are shopping and she’s being off bc she’s in pain and he’s on high alert about it

-🧸

aisles and attitude 🛒

Oscar Piastri x PCOS!reader

summary: reader’s in pain and snappy while shopping, but oscar sees right through it and takes care of her anyway.

warnings: chronic pain, pcos mention

A/N: unedited because i’m trying to get all ur requests out!! i’ve had this written since u sent it in, so it’s not exactly proof read 😭 love u, 🧸❤️

⚘ ⚘ ⚘ ⚘

you’ve been clenching your jaw since the car park.

the lights are too bright, the store’s too loud, and every step feels like your body is actively trying to fight you. there’s this throbbing pulse low in your stomach, sharp and unrelenting, and your back’s starting to give out under it.

but you keep walking. keep pretending.

oscar’s behind you with the cart, quiet, until you suddenly stop in front of the pasta display and just… freeze.

you brace a hand on the edge of the shelf, blinking hard.

“baby?” he asks gently.

“what?” you snap, sharper than intended. it comes out too fast, too loud, too tired.

he’s quiet for a second.

“you okay?” he asks anyway, careful.

“i said i’m fine,” you mutter, already turning away.

but he doesn’t let you walk this time. steps in front of you, one hand light on your arm. “hey,” he says, voice still low, but firmer now. “you don’t look fine.”

“oscar, i’m fine, can we just get the food and go—”

“you’re limping,” he says, cutting in. “you’ve been breathing through your nose for the last fifteen minutes like you’re in labour. i know you.”

you go quiet. your lips twitch like you’re holding back a grimace, but you don’t deny it this time.

he sighs, softer now. “let me help.”

“i just—” you bite back a sound, hand going to your lower stomach. “it’s not even that bad, i can—”

“nope,” he says, already turning the cart around. “bench. now.”

you scowl. “you’re not my dad.”

“you’re right,” he says with a teasing little smile. “he probably wouldn’t be this nice about it.”

you roll your eyes but let him steer you to the front, sit you down, kiss the top of your head before jogging off to finish things himself.

you don’t even realize you’ve curled up slightly on the bench until he comes back, crouching down in front of you with concern written all over his face.

“i know you don’t like being babied,” he says quietly, tucking your hair behind your ear, “but you don’t have to push through everything by yourself.”

you exhale. your shoulders slump a little. “sorry.”

“you’re not mad at me,” he says. “you’re just hurting.”

you nod, lips pressed tight.

he kisses your knuckles. “let’s get you home, yeah?”

and even though your body still aches and your nerves are fried and your cheeks are hot from snapping at him—you nod. because he’s still here. still steady. still him.

and he never makes you feel bad for needing more.

THE END :>

[pascalscoffin]

Probably not true but if Owen had SHUT THE FUCK UP I think hearing Ellie screaming and begging Joel to get up was making Abby second guess doing that

JUST HEAR ME OUT

The look on her face right before Owen walks up to her and says “end it” SHE LOOKS LIKE SHE’S HESITATING

SHE LOOKS LIKE SHE’S REMEMBERING WHAT IT FELT LIKE TO SEE HER DAD DEAD AND SHE WAS STARTING TO FEEL BAD FOR ELLIE. SHE ALMOST LOOKS CONFUSED.

I genuinely think if Owen had shut the fuck up she might not have killed him- seriously maimed, paralyzed, beat him until he had brain damage? Sure. But I genuinely think she was starting to second guess it when she saw Ellie going through the exact same kind of pain she went through five years ago (on top of that Ellie is the exact same age she was when found her dad? PLEASE)

It was like for the briefest of seconds, even if it didn’t matter AT ALL in the end, she realized killing Joel wouldn’t actually solve anything and instead would just cause more pain and start the cycle over again SHE WAS LITERALLY PUTTING THE PIECES TOGETHER

And then Owen and his fat fucking mouth. I can’t wait for Ellie to kill him bro😭😭😭😭

[gortashs-skidmark]

Wth I’m having to block all these “ask Anya” “ask Jimmy” and it’s so vile. My favorite media is being turned into the cultishness of fnaf. HROW UP😭😭😭😭 THERES NO ONE TO SHIP. “Ask daisuke” HES DEAD. HES NOT UWU. HES JUST A CHARACTER.

I saw someone ask an askjimmy “what was it like when you had sex with Anya for the first time. Medically ;)” I think that person needs to die actually.

I truly do not think these people have gone through the media and picked it apart. If you got the message and the seriousness of this, you would have the respect not to do that. It’s okay to make silly jokes and art. But that’s too far. I don’t want people acting like the people we see in the story. That’s insane. I don’t want role play of this game. “It’s harmless” i don’t think so. You’ve skewed it so much. What happened to the message. If you wanna rp don’t pick the stories that people need to see. You’re embarrassing and no one wants to learn about rape culture through this media because you took it too far.

I don’t care how you cope. The story wasn’t “dark omg silent wolf emo you’ve never heard of this indie game”. It’s like. There’s so much to take apart, and being a feminist it really disheartens me to see people taking the piss out of the situations. Especially the men. Take something out of the goddamned story and leave it. Unless it’s art. God. I hate this fandom. I CANT SCROLL THE HASHTAG WITHOUT THIS SHIT IN MY WAY. I WANNA SEE BIBLICAL PAINTINGS AND SYMBOLISM.

Please, please. Stop. Look at yourself, feel bad, and stop. I don’t give a fuck what your excuse is. Be better. Grow up.

[loveharlow]

↷ ⋯ ♡ᵎ ANGST ALPHABET

Rafe Cameron x Fem!Reader [ more rafe content ]

SYNOPSIS & WC ‧₊˚[idk] Angst Alphabet for Rafe. I removed some letters because they were repetitive questions😭

WARNING(S) & A/N ‧₊˚ swearing, mentions of slut shaming, verbal abuse, emotional abuse, mentions of physical abuse

A— Anger (what makes them angry? How do they deal with the anger?)

It’s Rafe…anything makes him angry. Pogues make him angry. His family makes him angry. His drug dealer makes him angry. He makes himself angry. And he doesn’t really have a way of dealing with it, not a healthy way at least. His solution is coke and that honestly never helps, it just amps his anger up to 100.

B— Bad Habits (what bad habits do they have?)

Too many to list. Between his mild coke addiction and extreme anger issues, Rafe is just a walking time bomb.

C— Can’t (what can’t they do? Is it a moral thing or some skill they just never learned?)

It’s like he can’t apologize with blaming you, even in the slightest. He’ll take responsibility for the main portion of whatever the issue was, saying he’s sorry and he shouldn’t have done but then he’ll turn it around on you at the very end, always with “But you have to admit that you…”, “I’m not the only one of us at fault here…”, “Let’s not act like you didn’t…”

“I’m actually so fucking sick of you.”

“I said I was sorry. He was looking at you the entire night!”

“So, you punch the waiter? While we’re out at dinner with your father and Rose who, by the way, already think that I’m using you for money?? You don’t even see the way your father looks at me-

“You're...being dramatic-”

“-like I’m the bottom of his shoe and you? you just made that worse-”

“Look, I didn’t mean to, okay? I-I’ll talk to my dad, I’ll even go back and apologize to the waiter. Will that make you happy?”

“...Yes, actually, it would. So, you go do that.”

“...But I’m not gonna pretend you weren’t looking at him, too.”

“*scoff*...You’re such an ass, honestly. You turn everything around on me-”

“I’m just saying!-”

“Well, just don’t!”

D— Death (How do they die? With family or alone? How does their partner find out?)

The only way I see Rafe dying is if all the trouble he got into finally caught up to him. I don’t know what, exactly, but I say either the pogues either snap and accidentally kill him or he kills himself, by overdose or some dumb shit he does.

E— Embarrassed (what embarrasses them?)

Ward. 100%. The way Ward treats his son is the only thing that truly embarrasses Rafe. Especially because Rafe tries to act like as soon as Ward hits the ground, everything is going to him — the inheritance, the company, the mansion. So, whenever you would stay over and wake up after him to a cold bed just to hear Ward digging into him downstairs, deep voice echoing off the walls of the mansion, Rafe knew you could hear. He just knew that Ward’s booming voice had probably woken you up and you could hear his father yelling at him about money and drugs and his sister.

"You fucked up everything, Rafe! Again!"

"I know, dad, okay? I was just trying to help-"

"This is your way of helping?!"

"Dad, please, my girlfriend, she's upstairs. Can we please not-"

"You think I care about some run of the mill south side chick in your bed? She will take everything you have and run. And you're so doped up half the time that you don't even see it."

F— Fake (what do they fake? An emotion? A lack of emotions?)

He fakes every. Single. Apology. Ever. He yelled at you for something you didn’t do? He’s on his knees spewing apologies while tears run down your face even though he’s going to do it tomorrow. He “accidentally” hit you because he got jealous? He’s burying your head in his chest while you stare off at nothing knowing it’s probably going to happen again. Called you a slut for wearing something you thought was cute? He didn’t mean it. But he’s never really sorry. And you both know it.

G— Guilty (what do they feel guilty about? why?)

He rarely ever feels guilt, but during the brief moments where he’s sober — no alcohol or drugs, he can’t help but feel guilty that he can’t let you go. Those moments in the morning, where he hasn’t touched a single substance yet and his mind is clear of any negative thought, he’ll just stare at your sleeping figure and think how much better off you’d be without him but he knows he’d never let that happen. Even as he looks at the bruises on you, sexual and violent, he knows he should free you of him but he never will.

H— Heartbreak (how did they deal with heartbreak? which time effected them the most?)

Heartbreak turns to anger for Rafe. You? Breaking up with him? Had you lost your mind? Were you drunk? Had you gotten in his coke stash? Because surely you weren’t trying to leave him. 

"I don't want to do this anymore. I am miserable, Rafe. Can't you see that?"

"That's because you keep trying to fight it, fight us. So what if your friends hate me? Screw them."

"It's not my friends, it's you. You're not nice to me, you try to control me, you use me as your punching bag. Verbally and physically-"

"You know I never mean it. I just... lose it sometimes, you know that."

"And that's supposed to make it okay?"

"No, I just-...you can't leave me."

"Well, tough shit because that's what's happening right now."

"No, I'm telling you. You try and walk out that door and I will hurt you. Please, don't make me hurt you."

I— Insecure (what are their insecurities?)

Sometimes, he just thinks that he'll never be good enough in the eyes of anyone. He's spent his whole life just trying to be good enough in the eyes of his father, someone who should feel obligated to uplift and be proud of him. So, when he's constantly berated and embarrassed by the man who's supposed to treat him with gentleness and care, it really messes with his head and his overall perception of how people view him.

J— Jealous (what makes them feel jealous of others?)

Jealous? No, Rafe Cameron doesn't get jealous. He gets possessive. He knows that no one can really take you from him as long as he's still alive and breathing. He doesn't like when people get too close or touchy with you. He actually hates it with everything in him.

K— Kill (what have they killed? any people? dreams? an animal?)

Rafe has only killed one person — Peterkin. And you didn’t even know when you’d gotten with him, only finding out when it came up during a fight with the Pogues. You freaked and he spun some story about he did it for Sarah which you weren’t even sure you believed after putting some pieces of the story together for yourself. 

"They're saying you killed somebody, Rafe! They're saying you killed the Sheriff! Why would they lie about that-"

"They're fucking pogues! They lie about everything. I didn't fucking kill anyone-"

"...You're lying. Oh my god, you're lying-"

"I-...I did it for Sarah, okay?"

"I'm gonna be sick..."

L— Lost (what have they lost?)

His damn mind. Rafe is unhinged. On top of that, he’s definitely lost all self-respect and human-decency. The only real "loss" he's suffered was the absence of his mother.

M— Memory (what’s their best and worst memories?)

His best memories are when he was younger and more innocent. Rafe was still a kid that was considered "reckless" and sometimes even "mean" but he still held that child-like innocence where nothing was that serious. His red flags were just brushed off onto his parents as them not disciplining him properly. Just a "spoiled little rich kid".

His worst memories are obviously in his more recent years of life. Any moment with his father, any interactions between him and Sarah, etc.

N— Nightmare (do they have them? what are they about? Reactions?)

Surprisingly, he has nightmares about some of the things he's done. He has no remorse for them in his conscious state, at all, really. But something about his dreams seem to want to haunt him with the memories of Peterkin's Murder, Shooting & Drowning Sarah, etc.

O— Obsolete (do they feel like they’ve been replace or could/should be? Do they feel like they aren’t useful?)

Ward makes him feel replaceable at every given moment, which eventually translates to him thinking whoever you give attention to has the potential to replace him.

P— Past (how has their past change them, has it made them better or worse?)

Definitely worse.

Q— Question (do they question themselves a lot? do other question them? Do they question others?)

He questions himself when he gets overwhelmed or has one of those fleeting moments of clarity where he realizes that he's done a lot of fucked up shit.

T— Tears (what makes them cry?)

He makes himself cry for pity and it took you so long to truly realize it. To realize that he would shed crocodile tears behind empty apologies just to keep you right where he wanted you.

V— Vicious (what makes them vicious, do they try to hide it or overcome it?)

When you argue. At the start of your relationship, before he started snapping on you for real, you'd argue back and he hated it. He hated that it felt like you were against him just like everyone else. And when the arguments got too frequent, when all of his actions started getting revealed to you, his true colors started show.

X— X-Ray (what’s going on inside? Both health wise and mentally, are they okay? Do they need some help?)

This is self-explanatory. No, he isn't. Yes, he does.

Rafe Cameron Taglist in replies!

feedback is appreciated! thanks for reading.

©loveharlow

[harrietswriting]

The greasers going camping with there girlfriend's family?

an: I haven't gone camping in so long 😔 will be doing this as headcanoans!

W: some swearing I think. Gn reader

Darry Curtis

This mf definitely loves camping

He definitely loved camping as a kid

So when you asked if he wanted to come with your family, he was so excited

He played it cool tho

"Yeah sure, sounds fun." Internally: "Yippie!! 🤗🥳"

Helps your parents pitch the tent and feels so masculine 😭

He thinks it's the sweetest thing when you make a smore for him

If you don't have siblings, he feels so relaxed, this is such a vacation for him

If you do have siblings, that's okay too.

Little siblings, they stress him out a bit but he thinks their adorable. He has them help him find firewood. "Is this stick good, Darry?" "Hmm.. this one isn't dry enough. It'll smoke."

If you have teenage siblings, that's also okay!

He'll lowkey gossip with them?

He has no problem talking to your parents and charms them

Carves your initials into a tree (D + Y/I)

Then you carve a heart around it

Literally just having the best time

Sodapop Curtis

He was so excited but also nervous when you asked if he wanted to go

He's scared of bugs 😔

Helps pitch the tent and feels like he's bonding with your parents so well

If you have younger siblings, he has so much fun with them.

Tag, hide and seek, looking for sticks, skipping rocks, anything, he's playing

He'll also be entertaining them with spooky stories

Older siblings, he's cool with them too, but stays by you

No siblings, he feels a little awkward with only your parents being there with the two of you

His happy-go-lucky attitude charms them though

He's so excited for smores

He makes you a smore and feels so proud

Feels so awkward because he wants to be affectionate with you but your parents are there

He trys to teach you how to skip rocks on water

You or your sibling make a flower crown and he's so happy to wear it

Steve Randle

This mfing show off

He helps load and unload the car, carrying as much as he possibly can

If you are anyone else in your family is carrying a lot of stuff, he'll go, "Let me help you."

He's so proud of himself and will flex at you afterwards.

"Yeah, no biggie for me 💪😏" boy shut up

If you have siblings, he was not happy to learn that they'd be coming

If you have older siblings, it's not as bad

Really young siblings, okay. He'll think they're cute and help them get fire wood and mess with bugs

Around 12-15 year old siblings? He's not definitely not happy 😔

So excited to tell spooky stories around the campfire

He's not the most charming, but he's sweet enough to win your parents over

"Sir" and "ma'am"

But then he made a dirty joke too loud and your parents heard, so he got embarrassed and apologized 😔

He'll pick a flower for you and put it tuck it by your ear

Johnny Cade

He's never gone camping, but he's excited to go with you

He's so nervous about being around your parents though

But they like him, he's nice

He's actually not scared of bugs, he thinks they're cool

If you have older siblings, he'll look up to them in a way, he enjoys getting to talk to them

If you have younger siblings, he's happy to play with them

If you have no siblings, he'll probably be a little more awkward and stick to your side more

He'll pick wild flowers for you

"Here, y/n 😊" He hands you a little bouquet of dandelions and other little flowers

He accidentally catches his marshmallow on fire 😔

Wanders off with you to look for firewood and talk

Two-Bit Matthews

Before you go, you tell him that he needs to be on his best behavior

He would rather just go camping with you and/or his friends but whatever

I don't think he'd be able to charm your parents very well

But they see how happy he makes you, so it's okay

He's so excited for smores!

If you have older siblings, he'll joke with them, but still mainly hang by you

If you have little siblings, he will play with them and he will be so, so competitive

But he'll teach them how to stick rocks if there's a pond nearby

If you have a sibling close in age, he'll joke around with them too

Not scared of bugs but will curse out the mosquitoes (just not infront of your parents)

Tells you that if a bear comes, he'll fight it off

Also tells you that if a moose comes, he'll use you as a human shield, and tells you to use your siblings 💀

Dallas Winston

He has nothing against camping, but he does not want to go with your parents. It took quite a bit of convincing

Camping pro?

Puts the tent up by himself (+1 wow point from your parents)

You two "get lost" while looking for firewood (he didn't want to go back)

You talk forever

If you have older siblings, he won't really talk to them all that much, and they probably have preconceived notions about him cause he's Dallas Winston

If you have little siblings, he'll play with them a bit

Tag becomes super competitive

He'll suggest sardines (the reverse hide and seek game), just so he can hopefully hide with you and get to be close to you

If you have siblings close in age, he'll talk to them some, but mainly stays glued to your side

He'll find a nice rock and give it to you (he acts nonchalant bout it but he's like 😖🤗 internally)

He doesn't really care for smores so he might give you his

You'll go stargazing but he'll stare at you the whole time cause he does not give a fck about stars

"Look, there's the little dipper." You point at the sky. "Mhm😍" "...Dallas, you're not even looking." He'll grumble and look at the sky. "Wow🙄"

Wants to make out in the tent once your parents fall asleep.

If you say no, he suggests sneaking out of the tent.

If you say no, he'll huff and puff then suggest that you at least come into his sleeping bag with him.

An: this was so fun to write

[lowkeyrobin]

IV ; translation

summary ; translating for an awesome prog metal band didn't come with a warning that a guitarist would be so interested in you

warnings ; language

disclaimers ; reader knows both asl and bsl for plot purposes, but can still hear / isn't described as hoh or deaf but could be if you wanted to I think

word count ; 822

masterlist

he's HAD an eye on you, and for quite some time, at least a few years

he doesn't know shit about you, but he can't help but stare at you, considering you usually have a mini-stage off to his side

he loves loves lovesssss seeing how the language differs between asl and bsl, how your movements slightly change between continents when they're performing

and you do your job with such passion and emotion, like you're really singing with vessel, how you're genuinely dancing during instrumentals or swaying softly during sadder songs

you know all the words, you know all the beat drops, you dance, you actually want to be there

and it just makes iv's heart flutter to see someone love their craft like that

he lowkey starts developing a crush on you and he's never even spoken to you, let alone does he know your fucking name 😭

after a show, he asks sam "hey...what'ss the sign language translators name?"

sam giggles, "y/n. whyd you ask, iv?"

"...just asking"

he gets sad when you're put anywhere that isn't practically next to him during concerts

like no come back bro 😭

"we shouldn't perform at venues like this again,"

"??? why??"

"cause y/n the translator wasn't next to me and iii got all their attention, 'nd I didn't get to see them at all"

he starts gesturing toward you during parts of songs where he doesn't have anything to play

he actually picked up a bit of bsl to be able to talk to you during rituals

and he 'dedicates' his solos or screams (tmbte live scream, I live for you) to you

he loves imitating the language with you, like you're literally teaching him words to songs when he can

like the most during shelter, alkaline, telomeres, atlantic, rain, give, etc

he actually finds the balls to talk to you a few weeks after he went on stage with bring me the horizon

twas after a ritual when he found you backstage, phone in hand

he jogged over and tapped you on the shoulder, and you gave him the warmest, kindest smile he'd ever received

he kind of just hands the phone to you, he doesn't know what to say and is in hopes you'll just think it's to keep his identity anonymous or whatever

and its his fucking performance w bmth

you hadn't seen it, so you hold the phone close to your ear and listen, and the way your face shifts scares him for a moment

like your jaw is dropped, you're watching the video to make sure that's really his voice

he's so scared you think it's bad because he thought he looked and sounded sick as hell

"oh my fuck, is this really you?"

he nods

"dude, you're amazing!!!!"

the way you made him feel in that moment, butterflies in his stomach and shit, he knewwww he was falling for ur ass

after that, you're really paying extra attention to him on stage, and begin playfully flirting back with him when you're both able to

when he does the tmbte scream and drags the 'eden', you let it fade, then make a gesture like you're sweating

the crowd erupts in laughter afterward because you don't need to know sign to know what you're saying there, cmon

after a while of playful flirting, the fans are just jokingly shipping you now because you may as well be the new "vessel straddling iii during sugar" moment

the fanfics are slapping though holy fuck

he figures out a few of your favorite songs, and during silences or intros to songs where he starts first, he'll play the intro / instrumental to them

meanwhile, you're standing there confused because this wasn't rehearsed, then realize "omg this is one of my favorite songs"

he does get a little sad he can't be affectionate, even if platonic, with you on stage

like he wants to show and tell you himself that you're doing a good job, that you're literally a ray of sunlight to him, that all the audience members love you for a reason

he does pull you around backstage a bit too

like he loops his guitar around you and has you strum some chords while he's standing behind you, his fingers over yours as he guides you

and he does pick up more bsl to talk to you when he can or throw compliments or suggestive comments your way

he leaves likes on fanart and appreciation posts of you everytime he sees them

he has literally every picture adam has ever taken of you two saved to his phone, backed up and EVERYTHING

he shares songs he's found with you at random

and he's always finding a reason to bother you, even if he barely speaks / finds it more comforting or easy to communicate in bsl

plus it feels more intimate because only you two can understand backstage 💔

[usoinked]

I have a theory about this faction involving Jimmy but ion know if anyone tryna hear me…imma say it anyways😗…Jimmy might be the fourth man of this faction with Seth and Bron. How does this make sense? Okay let’s start with last year from Bad Blood…that was the only time we really seen Jimmy get that hug and recognization from Roman….only for it to diminish….also Jimmy showing up and helping Roman even though he along with Jey have been in situations countless times where Roman never came to there aid because he just wasn’t at work that day or off doing who knows what.

So let’s start off with the baseline right, Solo Jimmy and Jey were all traumatized during the bloodline. Solo was isolated and emotionally manipulated, Jey was physically, mentally, and emotionally abused just as well as Jimmy.

But their trauma took them on different paths! Solo becoming the tribal chief (being a mirror image to Roman), Jey overcoming the odds of being told he was worth nothing and becoming world heavyweight champ….but Jimmy…what about Jimmy…all that has come out of it was Big Jim. He was MVP of the Wargames match, has had multiple matches on Smackdown but only won like one or two (If I’m remembering correctly), but has not held any type of championship other than tag team gold while his younger twin has held IC and now world heavyweight (only one belt away from grandslam WHOO!) and Solo has at least held the North American championship from NXT, but for Jimmy nothing and right now he’s kind of in the background…not really seen. But even with the bloodline…we see Jimmy constantly be skipped over, for Jey and Solo. Jimmy was always the second option…or no option at all. What does that lead to….ABANDONMENT ISSUES ladies and gentlemen. Even as a heel, Roman picked Solo to be next in line instead of him, remember how he looked so happy only to be let down when Roman picked Solo. Levels to this.

But going forward and speaking of Wargames…remember who Jimmy talked to when trying to find a partner? Bron Breaker…Mind YOU this was the same person who took the title off Jey due to the New Bloodline trying to “help” Jey. But even still…THIS IS YOUR BROTHER’S OPP😭 anyway. Everyone’s mind immediately went to him talking to him about joining their team but not me…I always wondered what he was talking to him about, like what reason do you have to go to Bron?

But also notice while the Wargames team was forming together…Jimmy and Paul seemed to have…this sus interaction after his return. Paul winking at him and Jimmy nodding….when I first seen this I was like “what do y’all two have going on over there?” Mind you…we got a Jimmy heel run…but it wasn’t serious…and we KNOW Jimmy can be serious and that he’s not dumb at all. Constantly being picked over, abandoned, watching others around you be successful and get that recognition but all you get is a new name is…gonna get frustrating after a while. And to add onto that, no one takes Jimmy serious already and we see how even the fans skip over Jimmy….surely this can’t be done on purpose right?

But how would Jimmy of all people pull something like this off? We’ve seen Jimmy Jey Sami and Solo all have conversations with Seth. And Seth has even said Jimmy Jey and Sami are his friends. We seen what happened with Sami and Jey on Monday…but I have a feeling that Sami isn’t the only one that’s about to turn on Jey. Jimmy is going to turn too. Now will he go directly after Jey right now, I don’t think so. I think this turn could be more centered towards Roman for his constant abandonment to Jimmy and we see how the trauma has affected Jimmy in FULL FORCE. We know that Jimmy Uso has abandonment issues, Roman choosing Solo over him, his own twin choosing Sami over him, and Jimmy taking matters into his own hands to kick Jey in the face so he couldn’t leave him (he literally pushed him away out of fear he would get the title and leave him…again).

Soooo what does Jimmy do? He talks to Paul behind the scenes to come up with this plan possibly involving Seth and Bron in getting Roman to lose everything. Seth called Roman a tyrant (the tyrant he created mind you 🙄) so why would he pass up any opportunity to make Roman Reigns suffer? Plus in return it also helps put Jimmy in that light he hasn’t gotten, with Roman’s #1 OPP seeing what Roman doesn’t see in Jimmy. Not only was it easier because Punk was in the mix too, but Seth knew to take advantage of the one thing that both Punk and Roman had in common, Paul Heyman. (Paul being Punk’s best friend and Paul being Roman’s wiseman for 4 years). The last thing Roman lost that he did have, was his wiseman. Roman now has no one because the bloodline has disbanded and everyone has gone their separate ways. (Punk doesn’t really count 😭)

This is literally the humbling of Roman Reigns. I think what we could be seeing now is Jimmy’s side of things because the LAST person Roman would expect to be behind this is Jimmy. Someone who has always been loyal to him (except when he kicked him in the face but then went right back to him because he was afraid of being alone), but from Bad Blood to Wargames and a bit after (Tribal Combat on Netflix), Jimmy was there to defend Roman and be there when he needed him. We even seen in the tribal combat match, Solo VENTING his trauma to Roman as he’s hitting him. But with Jimmy, he’s never let out his frustration…like at all. While THAT is going on over there mind you (between Roman, Seth, Bron, Paul, and Punk), Jimmy is happily celebrating with Jey and Sami because the chips are falling into place. But with Jey about to be dealing with Sami soon and possibly Bron if he goes after Jey’s title, Jimmy can slip right into that faction. And I think IF HE IS the fourth member, he would reveal himself somewhere in between Sami and Bron’s feuds with Jey. Like the person you’re NOT paying attention to is the one you really should be watching out for. But this time it STILL wouldn’t be about hurting Jey, it would be about simply showing Roman that he really is nobody’s bitch. 😗

[ghoulinfuschia]

Hello, I just wanted to say that I really love how that even though Intermission got like 3 mil, it didn't make you change how you are bc I've seen that happen to people before. I really love the entirety of Intermission, especially how you gave V justice with her relationship with Uzi. And the music was so good omg. I've seen the awful comments that you have gotten recently and THEY LITERALLY NEED HELP LIKE WTH IS WRONG WITH THEM! I think you and your work are really inspiring. And I have 2 questions

1 where did you learn how to storyboard/animate?

2 what's your advice to anyone wanting to share their own stories like you?

Ok that's all bye and God bless you

THANK YOU 😭😭😭 admittedly this isn’t my first rodeo. I had a video that hit 2 mil in 2020 and that shit gave me such an ego it was so bad. I privated that biz cuz now I’m too embarrassed to acknowledge the existence of that video 💀 I learned to humble myself and not let views make me feel like some big shot.

I’m happy to hear you liked Intermission :,)))

As for how I learned to storyboard I went to an art college where that was my study focus. I devoted my 4 years of school specifically to studying storyboarding. I am also currently undergoing an informal mentorship with a storyboard artist of 10+ years. He’s taught me a lot about cinematography, how to create compositions to properly convey the emotion I’m looking for, and how to strengthen my visual storytelling clarity. On top of that I analyze shows + movies I like to understand what makes their visual storytelling successful. I gotta do more board studies…

Advice I’d give to anyone who wants to share their own stories/ideas- don’t wait to make it perfect before you put it out there. Just throw it to the wolves, even if it’s super rough and a major work in progress. One idea I had to drill into myself is that I wasn’t gonna get anywhere if I was too precious with my work. Sometimes you gotta just say “Good enough whatever” and show it to people already. More likely than not those people will give you ideas on how to improve your work anyways. The longer you put off sharing your work the harder it’ll be to get eyes on it. Perfectionism is the killer of progress.

I’m still working on getting my ideas out there and being better about connecting with others, so believe me I’m not an expert at this either. I’m very much still a noobie at all this jazz. Just trying to follow the advice of boarding vets I’ve met :3

[returnofeternity]

any headcanons for nat with a tmasc reader? :]

she likes to steal your clothes all the time (⁠^⁠^⁠) you barely have any clothes left in your dresser cause they're all shoved in hers or tucked somewhere in that pile of clothes on the bedroom floor. she chooses to wear your shirt when waking up the morning after, sometimes even your boxers. she wears your sweaters when it's cold. she uses your ripped up shirts when you help her bleach her hair again 😒

you're jealous of her voice ;-; or maybe that's just me...but she reassures you so much when you get voice dysphoria :( she gets sad when you go mute sometimes because of how bad it gets. she's kissing your cheek, rubbing your back, and knows just the right words to cheer you up. helps you voice train if you want to, or just helps you get more comfortable with your voice. always mentions how sexy she thinks it is. begs you to keep talking but if you're genuinely uncomfortable, she stops and apologizes... likes kissing your adams apple too :) if you don't have one, she likes kissing your throat and hearing/feeling you hum.

calls you a pussy for almost passing out at your monthly blood work appointments (if you hate them just as much as me) after you come out and tell her how nervous you were, but was right there in the waiting room, rubbing your arm and putting her hand on your bouncing leg to try and calm your nerves. never makes fun of you (at least not too much..) if you want her to go in with you because you feel calm and safe with her there.

nat giving you cool haircuts 😁 she has such good style that you trust her to give you a haircut. makes sure to tell you how handsome you are and kisses you until you believe it. you love when she has her hands in your hair/on your face guiding you where to look so she can cut, and she likes touching you in general ! :)

scrawny lil nat with buff or even chubby tmasc reader.... she's got some muscle, but barely. she loves the size diff tbh. loves how beefy you are and loves that tummy. she loves post-shot times where either she or you inject the T into your stomach and then loves to rest her head on your bellayyy. she loves how she can squeeze your thighs and arms and belly and cheeks and everything. also loves being carried.

singer!reader whose singing voice changes drastically on T and nat who fucking loves it. you were able to do high notes but now you can't really do them without your voice cracking... goddd she lives for your voice. starts geeking and giggling to herself when she catches you singing. requests her favorite songs always....... asks you to sing her to sleep or sing to calm her down when she's having bad days :(

nat who does ur makeup :) making your face more masculine with tutorials she found online, getting distracted by how handsome you are, and messing it up with her kisses... or if you like wearing makeup, she likes sitting in your lap and doing it. nat who always forgets to put blush on your cheeks because you're constantly red while she's holding your face so gently anyway 😭

nat who starts arguments with anyone who looks at your trans pins weirdly. if they look at you weirdly, let alone say anything, may god not have mercy on their soul... she will get into fights for you. she doesn't take that shit lightly at all. idkk. just thinking about talks with her about staying stealthy after she almost got arrested one day for assaulting someone (deserved) who was being weird to you. telling her you don't feel safe even when she confronts them and protects you :( asking if she could just leave it and focus on you. but also jokingly bumping her shoulder and saying, "i don't care what you do after, though. if they end up dead on the news, i don't know anything." and she smiles

nat buying you trans books/films. ESPECIALLY films. :D buying you gender affirming things all the time, her heart bursting at how happy you are when she gifts them to youuu

[yes-no-maybe-soo]

hi hi hi! this is @syslut :3 i just recently followed your lovely blog and i’ve always loved how passionately you talk about our dear loverboi.

on to the point: do you have any theories sylus’s upcoming main story branch?! 👀👀👀 saw your tags here :3

i am so excited and lowkey anxious; i smell angst 😭🤚

Aaaa thank you so much for your kind words ❤️ It means so much to me that you guys enjoy my yapping 💞 (love the @/syslut username btw!)

Ok so re: the main story and angst, these lines from Sylus' birthday event have been stuck on my mind for days and made me more and more anxious the longer I mull them over

(And there's also these lines from Greedy Heart)

I've consumed works of fiction since I was a wee thing and in my experience lines like these never herald sunshine or rainbows. On the contrary they often foreshadow that one or both characters are pretty much cooked... same as when a character in a show says that today is their last day before retirement. You know the dude will be dead by the end of the episode ;-; I get a similar feeling of dread here.

That is not to say that I believe that Sylus or MC will (perma) die or anything, especially not in the upcoming branch. The game is still very fresh with lots more content to come, not to mention that you can't really kill off main characters in an otome gacha (thank god). However, I do believe that the angst we will get will still be extremely painful. Paperfold are masters at the art of twisting the knife and giving us all PTSD.

My prediction is that something bad will happen to MC — she'll be abducted, injured, maybe even temporarily killed, or all three — and we will get to witness Sylus be properly enraged and afraid. We haven't seen him in either state yet, since very few things truly get under his skin. Most of the time he is nonchalant or even bored in the face of threats. He projects nigh invincibility to his opponents and even to MC. He has no discernible weaknesses... or at least, as far as his enemies are aware (for now).

But we know better. The only times we've ever seen Sylus approaching a state of anger or fear have involved MC. He gets upset at himself in battle mode if MCs health is low by the end of it, and he also yells out in alarm for her to "look out!" if he sees her about to get hit by Wanderers. And recently in his birthday card he was visibly worried for her when she fell. The writers have made the fact that MC is Sylus' weakness clear even before Sylus himself stated it outright. And now that he has, I am 99.9% certain that it will be utilized in the plot at some point. Like I've said before, the LADS writers seldom include stuff like this without some sort of intent. It's not just meant to be wholesome fluff imo. Maybe it will even lead to Sylus actually being (temporarily) defeated in order to save MC?

However, whether this will happen in the upcoming branch I am less certain about. It might be too premature for that. But I'm not ruling it out completely.

What is basically 100% certain though is that something angsty will happen, and that we will be in pain. My reasons for believing this are

The main branches for the OG3 were all angsty.

We have been fed a suspicious amount of fluff and sunshine lately. Which will make the angst hit even harder. Which, knowing Paperfold, is exactly the plan. They're lulling us into a false sense of security.

Angst or an intense situation of some sort would be a great vehicle for character development for both Sylus and MC, as well as for furher deepening their relationship.

The main story and branches have involved lore. And you know what LADS lore means right? Exactly. Emotional suffering. For both the characters and us.

It's a bit tricky to guess what said angst or lore will be though since for one we don't know at which point in time the branch will take place. Will MC still have the same opinions and feelings re: Sylus as when she left him in the main story? Or will enough time have passed that they are more intimate? Weren't the latter the case with the OG3? Or am I misremembering?

Furthermore, in the case of the OG3 their branches were based off the third anecdotes. And seeing as Sylus still doesn't have that... well, his will clearly have to be based off of something else. Unless they decide to drop the anecdotes at the same time? Please God let that be the case! We are so lore starved over here... not to mention free companion starved... 😓

My best guess right now is that the Beyond Cloudfall myth will come into play somehow. Maybe MC will regain some memories, or maybe Sylus will finally reveal his dragon form?

As for theories outside angst, I think it's pretty safe to say that we will learn more about EVER and the Eye of Aether, or at least aether cores in general. Most of all I want answers regarding what is up with Sylus' right eye. Who put the aether core there and when? His eye has clearly been special for a long time, as far back as in Beyond Cloudfall. I'm doubting we'll be getting a definitive answer for that here though. LADS likes drip-feeding its info and lore after all.

Anyway, that's really as far as I feel comfortable going with my theories and speculations rn. I apologize for the extremely long and rambling answer dhdjdfj I always get super carried away with topics like these 😅 if you guys have any theories, then please don't hesitate to add on to this ♡