#it also makes me giggle though because thus far

[crimeronan]

tonight i found out that the woman in my irl writing group who clocked that devin is trans several months back actually has an adult trans daughter of her own! and i got way too excited about it. me out here flapping like omg omg omg did you know i love trans women and being gay So Fucking Much. (as if..... this wasn't obvious already.)

anyway writing group knows i'm a she/they now.

[hysteria-things]

can you do a nate fluff w/ some smut where it's him and the triplets little sister and theyre dating and he keeps wanting to be close to her in but they're in a video so he has to wait and the fans notice when the video comes out? this wasn't specific at all so sorry 😭

SNEAK AWAY (part one)

read part two here

𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠: soft dom!nate x sls!reader

𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: six of you are on a trip in hawaii! the only downside is that your triplet brothers don’t know you’re dating their best friend.

𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬: SMUT, FLUFF, swearing, praising

𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 1,208

𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫'𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞: i need this man (biblically)

ALSO i have not forgotten about promise it’ll be continued i just want to get through some of my inbox first!

hawaii is a beautiful place. you truly never want to leave.

this trip is for madi’s eighteenth birthday, and you were practically begged to come. not only you, but nate came along, too.

the thing about nate is that you’re in love with him. literally.

you guys have been dating for roughly seven months, and nobody knows about it. it’s only a thing between you and him.

it genuinely feels nice for it to be you and his thing, but it does get annoying because you have to sneak around.

personally, you wouldn’t mind if your brothers never found out. they can’t kill you, but they will hawk nate and kill him.

glancing around the store, you fidget with the straps of your tank top. “nate, come on.”

he glances at you and then back at the condom boxes. the triplets are vlogging the trip thus far, and you guys walked away to come over to this section.

“nathan.”

he sighs, grabbing a box. “you worry about them too much, baby. we’re fine.”

“they can turn down one of these aisles any second and we’ll be busted.” you whisper-yell, pointing around the store.

he chuckles, leaning down to kiss your cheek. “they’re loud. i’m sure we’ll hear them coming before something bad happens.”

he continues to look at you and smiles.

you cross your arms, bumping a hip out. “what?”

“you’re cute when you’re mad.” he takes his finger and flicks it under your chin before the two of you walk over to the counter and place the condoms on it. you’re still looking around, but there are no same-faced people in sight.

the woman working eyes the both of you, a subtle smirk on her face before scanning the box and putting it in a bag.

he pays for it, and just as you guys turn around you hear voices. “hey guys.” nick greets, looking down at the bag. “what’d you get?”

“some deodorant. i forgot mine at home.” nate answers, nudging your arm softly.

the man-children are recording themselves playing with a ball in an open grass area by the hotel, you and madi watching them from afar. you sigh annoyingly, looking down at your watch.

“i’m going to go up to the room,” you yell, cupping your hands around your mouth so they can hear. they stop playing, focusing now on you. “need to go to the bathroom.”

they give you the okay, and before you know it you’re walking into the hotel suite.

you scroll on your phone, a few minutes passing by before the door opens. you grin widely, nate shutting the door behind him.

he comes over to you and snakes his arms around your waist to pull you close. “i missed you.”

you giggle. “you just saw me.”

sighing, he pulls you into a kiss. the way your mouths move in sync has you craving more. this is the first time you guys are alone, let alone a kiss that’s not a millisecond long.

he pulls away and lifts you, your legs dangling on his sides so he can take you to the bed he’s sharing with chris.

sorry in advance, chris.

he lays you down, kissing your jaw before taking off your shorts. “how much time do you think we have?” you ask.

he shrugs. “like i said before, they’re loud. we’ll hear them coming.”

you blush at his boston accent, one much stronger than yours and your brother’s. even though you’ve heard him talk a hundred times, it’ll always make your heart flutter.

he leaves wet kisses up your chest and neck while he pulls down his bottoms. his kisses finalize on your lips. “i love you a lot.”

you bite your lip, smiling. “i love you too.”

he reaches into the plastic bag he put on the nightstand and grabs the condom box. he rips off one of them and opens it, putting it on when he throws the wrapper somewhere on the ground.

your hands run along his back as he starts to thrust into you, low moans leaving your body.

nate’s thrusts are soft and slow, but it feels more intimate and comforting. you hate the phrase ‘making love’, but it seems like you’re doing just that.

he leans down to kiss you passionately again, his hands flat next to your head. he pulls away, his nose rubbing against yours.

breathing heavily, he moves his hips at a medium pace, going deeper inside of you and just about hitting your g-spot.

your sounds are more high-pitched now, with some profanities flowing through the air as well.

“na—” you begin but get cut off by a gasp once that spot is hit. you throw your head back and arch, balling your hands up to fists. “oh my god.”

“wait just a second, okay?” he rasps out, followed by a groan of his own. “you’re so fucking pretty.”

he hits inside you harder since he’s close to his orgasm and you whimper at how good it feels.

“i’m cumming, baby,” he says before jutting his hips one last time and releasing into the condom.

one last moan and you’re spilling around him. he pulls out, laying on top of your chest as you guys breathe in sync. “imagine they walk in right now?” he jokes.

you slap him on the chest. “better knock on wood, nathan, or we’re going to have some serious issues.”

madi’s birthday rolls around the next day, and it’s the late morning as you guys sit on the couch. your legs are crisscrossed as madi is on her knees.

the four boys are doing some activities outside before all of you go out later for birthday dinner, but you girls want to stay inside in the cool air.

face masks are on your faces, still dressed in pajamas as you guys also paint your nails. “i’m so happy to have another girl around. growing up with four older brothers was not easy.”

she looks up from her painting and gives you a toothy smile before she clears her throat. “can i ask you something?”

“sure.”

“are you sleeping with nate?”

you pause mid-stroke, now looking at the girl across from you.

you chuckle nervously, putting the brush back into the polish. “why do you ask?”

“by the way he ran after you yesterday when you were going back to the room, i knew something was up.”

you hesitate, but you have to tell at least one person. madi you can trust with anything. “not… entirely.”

“what?” her eyes bulge out of her sockets, not expecting you to admit it. “are you like in love with him or something?”

you try to hide your smile, but your face turning beat red gives you away.

her mouth hangs open. “no. way.”

“we’re dating.” you start. “we have been for about seven months. we started talking on my birthday last year, and it escalated from there.”

“omg!” she squeals. “this is the best birthday gift i’ve ever received and it doesn’t even involve me.”

you laugh. “please don’t tell my brothers. they’ll have a heart attack if they find out.”

she zips her lips and throws the key. “my lips are sealed, unlike your le—”

“quit it.”

𝐭𝐚𝐠 𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭!

@bunbunbl0gs @lexisecretaccx @thy-mission @angelic-sturniolos111 @sophssturn @mattsneezing @janiellasblog @blahbel668 @meg-sturniolo @hearts4chris @mattslolita @sturnbaby @imwetforyourmom @tillies33ssss @sturnifyed @mayhem-72 @ripmattitude @p1xieswrld @alorsxsturn @txssvx @sttzee @multiluvr @delilahprentiss @matthewsspecial @sturnolio-luvs @sturniolho @suga-daddy-69 @tworosesblackthorn @luckistar-posts @gnxosblog @junnniiieee07 @sturnioloslurps @tylerthecreatorsrealwife @flowerxbunnie @imaslut4kehlani @sturniolosandmoree @hertvgirl @whoreforchrissturniolo @r4iyaa @sturniolotriplettoplover @mattybswife @freshsturns @loverrsposts @saturncanyon

[dailykafka]

Okay… here is what I meant about the "Franz Kafka night time fantasies" thing.

Ugh, this is going to obviously be horrible, but I just want to share it, get it off my chest.

Every night, for almost two months at this point, I’ve been imagining myself as this deranged, self-hating femcel who ended up swooning over Franz Kafka, simply because of his stories, to which I felt they somehow "touched my heart".

But because imaginary me is a femcel with lots of hatred towards men because of my supposed past, I do not like the fact that Franz Kafka is a boy. Oh—and also, in my head, Franz Kafka would also be a suicidal, self-hating, body dysmorphic hopeless romantic as well.

The reason why Franz Kafka agreed to date me is because he is a lonely touched-starved man, who desperately wants the touch of a woman, and I’m the only person who gives him attention. Also that Milena has not responded to his letters in 2 days, and it has caused him severe distress and feeling of great emptiness.

Because I don’t like Franz Kafka as a boy (imaginary-me has boy trauma), I would only give him attention if he were to metamorphosise into a girl for me. He agrees, though not without that timid hesitation.

But afterwards, I would go onto dress him up like he’s a pretty doll, let him wear pretty pink dresses, croquette butterfly hair clips, lace shoes, high white stockings, and I’d style his hair. I would tell people I’m a "lesbian" and let them look at my girlfriend, Franz Kafka. We would go out and picnic like girls, play with dolls, drink tea, lie in a field with lovely tulips, and giggle at our favourite short stories.

But all this, of course, would not go down without causing the author himself lots of embarrassment. His father reams at him daily for his sudden feminine metamorphosis, his sisters began to mock him, and people at his work make fun of him. Yet, Franz Kafka is far too emotionally attached to me to ever let go of me, or even let go of being a girl. though he does hate his life even more and wants to die. Clearly he is not mentally okay.

However, in these turn of events, his best friend Max Brod finds out about Franz Kafka sudden metamorphosis into a girl, and… falls in love with him. Franz Kafka is not gay, so he shyly rejects him, but Max Brod is insistent, and thus begins to stalk him, grossly infatuated with the feminine author.

It would come to a point where suddenly, as Franz Kafka walks down a street, all alone as a defenceless girl, suddenly Max Brod would come out to kidnap him, drag him into the basement and perform some terrible kafkaesque things to him. Kafka would plead and sob for him to stop, but the hell would not end.

I am in awe of your rich inner world…

Several responses that came to my mind while reading this:

Okay soo this is insane

Okay, this is fascinating

I think you should check your house for mold poisoning

[miyuhpapayuh]

butterflies.

After their close friends and family received the news about them being invited to the most anticipated event of the creative world, Mya, Isaiah and the rest of the group began planning for their awaited, highly anticipated trip.

The pair have also gotten closer over the last couple of weeks. Going out to dinner after work, drinks on the weekend, and her new favorite, sharing ice cream at Maggie's diner.

“Ooh!” 

Currently sifting through the dresses that her mama had sent her, she lands on a red hot number with a slit up the thigh.

“I don’t know what event mama thinks I’m goin’ to, but…” she trails off, laughing to herself.

Pulling it off the hanger, she lays it across her bed and begins to tug at the bottom of her shirt when her music abruptly cuts off, followed by the ringing of her phone.

Peering over at it on her dresser, she smiles. “Oh, boy.”

Answering the call, she watches his handsome face come into view. His wide smile showcases itself, almost mirroring hers.

“I’m starting to think you’re watching me,” she jokes, keeping the top of her head in view as she reaches for the dress.

“Why?” he asks.

“Because you always call me when I’m in the middle of something,” she laughs.

“What’s so important, this time?” he mocks as she laughs.

“My mom sent me a bunch of dresses to try on for this damn ball, and I’m about to lose my mind, because I can’t decide on one,”  she sighs.

“You need some help decidin’?” he asks, his chin in his palm as he stares at the partial view of her face and the ceiling.

“Uh…sure! Give me a second.” She moves away from the camera and begins to pull her shirt over her head, grabbing the dress and sliding into it.

“You cut my favorite song off this time. I just want you to know”, she grumbles, fidgeting with the dress.

“And what song was that?”

“I Think About Lovin’ You by Earth, Wind and Fire.”

“Hm. Don’t think I’ve ever heard it.”

“No worries. We’ll fix that,” she says, before picking her phone up from the dresser.

“Okay, you’ve fattened me up over the past couple of weeks, so don’t be too harsh.”

He chuckles. “I would never do such a thing.”

“Okay,” sitting it back down in an upright position, she pulls her hair away from her face and poses, “how do I look?”

“Wow,” his eyes wander over her curves, committing them to memory..

“You look so good.”

Her brows raise, the butterflies in her stomach doing somersaults.

“Really?”

“Absolutely,” he nods enthusiastically, making her cheese wide.

“Can I get a spin?” He asks, poking his lip out.

“I'll oblige you, this time.” She winks, taking her time twirling like a doll on display, giggling at his whistles.

“Damn girl,” he shakes his head.

“Alright, alright, let me go try on another one!” She says, moving out of frame to silently squeal and slip into another dress.

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

After an hour and a half of making the object of her affection blush, Mya decides to have lunch with her mother at their favorite spot, Shoney’s.

As the chimes on the door ring, her mother looks up from her coffee and motions her over.

“Hey, baby.” She greets her daughter with a kiss on the cheek as she files into the booth seat, removing her jacket.

“Hey, ma. Man, it’s chilly out there today.”

“That’s why I texted you about a jacket even though you swear you don’t get cold.”

“Well, if I tell you that you’re right about me being cold, you’ll just gloat about it until you die so, no. I’m not cold.” She blinks.

“You are your father’s child.”

“That’s what the birth certificate says, yes.”

“Anyways, I brought you here to talk about all of your success, thus far. I’m very proud of you. How do you feel?”

A genuine smile spreads across her lips.

“Thank you! I’m so happy, honestly. I knew Savannah believed in me, but I won’t lie and say that I knew this was coming!”

“The Gold Ball is definitely a once in a lifetime experience, but you deserve it! You’ve been working hard for the past three years at Abstraction. It’s about time that your hard work paid off.” Her mother stresses.

“Yeah, I’ve heard that a couple of times. I believe it, I’m just still processing it all.”

“Well, good. Now, do I get to hear about this boy that’s got you all giggly, yet?”

 Mya sighs, knowing it was coming.

“All of a sudden, I’m hungry. I’ll be right back.” She gets up from the table and heads towards the buffet line to fill her empty stomach.

With her mother being the relentless soul that god put her on earth to be, she heads over and behind making her own plate, all the while poking for information.

“Oh, come on! I’ve been patient with you, Nicole.”

“Ma, not the middle name. Don’t be dramatic.”

“I’m not being dramatic. You’re holding out on me.”

“I just wanna eat, ma. Let me eat and then I’ll tell you. Okay?”

“Fine.”

Twenty minutes, an entire rundown and a full stomach later…

“He sounds like a good ol’ southern gentleman. Is he cute?”

“Ma,” Mya grabs her phone off the table and goes to his contact picture. “Cute isn’t an accurate description.”

Sharing the phone, her mother’s brows lift. “Oh, wow. He’s one beautiful man.”

“I know!” She agrees with her eyes closed, making her laugh.

“So, you really like this one?”

“I’m starting to, yeah! Besides him being pretty, he’s such a sweetheart and he’s a computer nerd like myself. What more could a girl ask for?”

“Babies.” She answers.

Mya almost chokes on air.

“Huh?!”

“What?? I’m not getting any younger.. neither are you.”

“I’m only twenty-seven. I’ve got time, and your first candidate for me shouldn’t be a man that I’ve only known for about a month! Relax a little, please.”

“Is he going to the seminar, as well?” She asks, completely ignoring her daughter.

“Yes.” She purses her lips together, not letting it slip that he was also invited to the Gold Ball, knowing her mother would just get amped up all over again.

“Well, you’ll have some eye candy while you listen to those white people tell you about success.” She snorts.

“And you said my father was harsh on white people,” Mya laughs. “I think you took it over, ma.”

“Your father is a fool.”

“That’s a conversation for another day.”

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

“You guys!”

Taylor kisses Mercedes’ and Mya’s cheek before sitting in the available seat, slinging her jacket over the back of the chair.

“Usually, I’d say you’re being dramatic with the kisses and shit, but it has been a minute.” Mercedes comments, sipping on his long island iced tea.

“It really has! I missed y’all.” Mya chimes in.

“Mhm. You been all hugged up with strong arms. I might even be a little jealous.” Mercedes says, making Mya’s cheeks flush red.

“Jealous? I thought you and Mark were kickin’ it?”

Taylor snorts. “Mark was just that. He couldn’t even protect ya girl!”

“I missed something??” Mya asks, both of them nodding at her, quickly.

“Chy, how ‘bout we went to the movies, last weekend and this big mountain of a man gets in ol’ boy’s face, tryna check him on some I’m more of a man than you are type of shit and Mark just stood there. Now, you know me! I was like you ain’t gon check him?? He lookin’ at me like it was my fault, cause then they start goin’ at it and that big bitch started callin’ me out my name and the motherfucker still just stood there! Lookin’ like he was about to fuckin’ cry. So I left.”

Mya’s jaw was on the floor.

“You gotta be kidding me! Has he tried to contact you?”

“Several times!” Taylor laughs.

“It’s not funny, Tay! That shit was embarrassing.” Mercedes grumbles. “But, yeah, so I’m single again. Maybe, for a while longer cause that was just too much for me.”

“Man, I’m sorry I missed that. I’m sure you could’ve used an extra shoulder to lean on,” Mya frowns. “Maybe, an extra crowbar.” She cracks.

“Girl, you’re fine, I want you to enjoy all you can of ol’ thick neck. When do we officially get to meet him, by the way?”

“As soon as you can call him by his name.”

“We know his name, girl. Mister muscles!”

“You play too damn much, Cedes. But, uh… how about this weekend? We can all go out for drinks or something.” Mya suggests.

“Ooh! There’s a new spot, uptown!” Taylor snaps her fingers, trying to pull the name of the place out of thin air, “Flavor! It’s so cute. They got great food, an open bar,” she nudges Mercedes, “and a lil common area, if you wanna dance a little.”

“Sounds like the spot!”

“I’m down.”

“What time? Seven sound good?” Mya asks.

“Yeah, that should be fine.”

“I’m so excited to harass your man.” Mercedes rubs her hands together like Birdman.

“Two things. One, he’s not my man,”

“Yet,” they both chime in, cracking up.

“And, two!! Don’t embarrass me, please.”

“We would never,” Taylor smiles.

“Oh, boy.” She shakes her head.

“No, but seriously, how are things with him?”

“He’s so dreamy, you guys.” She gushes. “These last few weeks have been some of the best. We just sit and talk or we’ll go dancing or we’ll take a walk in the park or we go out to eat— did I mention that he’s fine!?”

“We’ve seen his hunky ass, girl!” Taylor nods. “That’s so cute! You deserve it, honestly.”

“Yeah, those duds you were runnin’ with, back in the day couldn’t even hold a candle to Isaiah.” She smirks.

“It’s so refreshing to hear you not call him swole arms.” She playfully rolls her eyes. “And thanks, girl. Them whores weren’t good for anything besides a dick drop off.” The trio crack up.

“Hell, at least they could do that right!”

“That, they did.” She snorts, the memories flooding back to her brain, making her shiver a little. “Whew!”

“You stupid, man.” Mercedes pokes her in her side. “But, you just tell swole arms that we don’t play bout our Mya paya, okay?”

“Got it.”

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

Sitting across from one another in the dimly lit ice cream shoppe, the pair share a double scoop of vanilla and good conversation.

“They’re gonna tear me up, aren’t they?” He asks.

“I told them to behave, but Mercedes takes that as a challenge.” She shakes her head, eating a spoonful.

He laughs.

“Well, they’re just making sure you’re in good hands.”

“And, am I in good hands?” She questions.

“Like Allstate.” He says, making her giggle.

“I knew it was corny, but I like making you laugh.” He smiles.

“It was cute,” she laughs, eating another spoonful. “Like you.”

“Damn, that’s a bump down from pretty.” He frowns, pretends to be hurt.

“Aw,” she sits her spoon down and rubs the back of his hand. “You are pretty, 'saiah!”

“Mhm.” He plays with her fingers. “Not as pretty as you.”

“I don’t know,” their fingers intertwine, “I think you have me beat.”

“No, no. I’m only this pretty with some scruff on my face. You’d change your mind if you saw me without it.”

“Shut up,” she laughs, ���you mean your beard?”

“It barely qualifies, since it's growing back in.”

“C’mere lemme get a better look.” She motions him towards her, so she can take a closer look at his handsome face.

She chances, softly gripping his chin, and turning his face in her hand to better inspect him.

“Looks good to me.”

“Yeah? Come a little closer.”

She obliges, chewing on her lip. Their faces are just a few inches away from each other. Squinting, she nods, grazing his “scruff” with her thumb.

“Still looks good to me.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah,”

Grasping her chin with his free hand, he closes the space between them, kissing her like he’d been wanting to all day.

Melting into the kiss, their lips mold together as if they were long lost lovers.

Pulling away, he licks his lips. His hand still cupping her chin, her eyes reopening to find him already looking at her.

It was her turn to be flustered.

“What was that for?”

“I’ve wanted to all day. Thought it was the right time.”

“Hm… your timing is impeccable.”

“Yeah?” His brows raise.

“Mhm.” She smirks.

“Another pat on the back for me?”

“Shut up,” she laughs.

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

Sprawled out on his couch, the pair sit up under one another, watching a movie.

“Are you comfortable?” He asks, his hand is at the base of her neck, strumming soothing circles with his fingertips. She’s nestled comfortably between his legs while his heartbeat drums a lullaby against her ear.

“This TV’s gonna be watching me in a minute,” she says, her eyes getting lower and lower. His low chuckle vibrates through her before she continues. “I saw my mama today, by the way. We talked about you.”

His ears perk up at the new information.

“Oh did you, now? What y’all say?”

“Said you're cute, you better treat me right and then something about grandchildren.” The end makes Isaiah sputter out a cough, and she barely conceals her laughter. “I’m not sure, I kinda tuned her out at that point.”

“Well, she doesn't have to worry about me treating you right, I'd be an idiot not to,” he says, tickling her neck, making her immediately scrunch up.

“Stop!,” she squeals, reaching back to smack his hand, “she also said she’d like to meet you. I politely told her to slow her roll.”

“I don’t know, mama. I think I’d like to meet the lovely woman that raised my favorite girl.” Her cheeks heat up, and she’s grateful she isn’t facing him.

She faux muses for a moment before responding. “Well in that case, I may be able to get something arranged.”

The conversation makes Isaiah aware that he needs to spend some time with his own mother. He makes a mental note to call her come morning.

The rest of their evening is spent with more playful teasing between binging reruns of Living Single.

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

Isaiah makes good on his promise to call his mama that following morning as soon as he settled in at work. They made plans to meet up with each other that same day during his lunch break.

“I’ll miss you, swole arms. We’ve been having lunch together for months now.” Mya jokes before they part ways for the hour.

“Wait, what—” he stops mid thought before answering his own question. “Mercedes and Taylor, huh?”

“Mercedes and Taylor,” she confirms with a laugh.

“You know I haven’t officially met those girls, and I don’t think I like ‘em too much,” he teases with a laugh.

“They’re harmless for  the most part. Anyway, have fun with your mama. I know she misses her boy.”

“Thanks, Mya.” He catches her off guard by stealing a quick kiss to her lips while there are no eyes on them. 

By the time she can get her bearings, he’s gone, and she has to flush the blush away from her cheeks before anyone could grill her about it.

A five minute ride later, and Isaiah is seated across from his mother at Lorraine’s, a soul food staple in the neighborhood.

They’re catching up over fried catfish, greens, and yams.

“Honey, I thought the Lord was gonna come down on his gold chariot and snatch us up before I got to see my baby,” she teases.

He can’t help laughing at his mother’s dramatics. “I know it’s been a minute since we’ve seen each other, mama. I’m sorry.” He puts his free hand over hers, having genuinely missed her.

“Oh baby, it’s alright. I know you’re at that big, fancy company living out all your dreams and making your mama proud. I couldn’t ask for more from you.”

Emotions he didn’t plan on feeling on a Friday afternoon caused his throat to become tight. He cleared it, gently squeezing her hand. “Yeah,” he agrees softly, so his voice doesn’t betray him.

“So,” she starts, switching topics, “tell me more about this girl you were going on about earlier. Mya, right?”

“Yes, ma’am.” He smiles with his whole face.

“Hmm. The way those eyes lit up like Christmas when I said her name just now tells me she’s special, ain’t she?”

“You can definitely say that.”

“Special enough for a couple grandchildren? You know I just hit 35 and the clock ain’t tickin’ backwards.”

He’s so stuck by that “grandchildren” word, he completely misses that she subtracted roughly 15 years from her actual age.

“Boy, close your mouth before you catch a fly. I’m just messing with you. A little bit.”

“Mama, you are entirely too much. Let me get to know her first, maybe learn more than her favorite flower, before you start talking about kids.”

“Fine,” she says, rolling her eyes jokingly. “But tell me what you do know about her.”

“Well,” he takes a moment to gather his thoughts together, “she’s so pretty, mama. I tell her that all the time. Maybe too much, but she doesn’t seem to mind. She’s really sweet. I mean, give you a cavity kind of sweet,” he pauses, chuckling at how corny that sounded, even to his own ears. “She makes me laugh.”

“Honey, you laugh at everything.” He’s interrupted by his mother’s gentle observation. 

“I know that, lady. But with her, it’s a deep, from the gut kinda laugh, ya know?”

She acknowledges her son with a nod, silently encouraging him to go on.

“And she’s really talented. Like, an out of the box type of talented. And ambitious. Crazy ambitious. All the time, she tells me the things she wants outta life, and I’m watching her get it in real time. I love that.” 

“Well, she’s already a country mile ahead of that last one, I tell ya that. What was her name again, Jezebel?”

He almost loses the sip of lemonade he took.

“It was Janaé, mama.”

“Ain’t that what I said? Anyway, that thang had your nose open like 7/11. I was starting to worry about you, boy.”

“Well, I like to pride myself on making better decisions now, mama.”

“Thank the Lord for small wonders,” she continued to tease him.

“I’m starting to question whether or not you love me, old lady.”

“Oh cut it out. I’m just teasing. You know I love my baby,” she says while pinching his cheek.

“Come on now, ma.” He gently removes her hand from his face, chuckling.

She sighs, looking at how happy her son looked at the moment. She debates whether or not she should relay the piece of information that could prove devastating for his progress.

“What’s on your mind, mama?” he asks before she can decide.

“ I wanna talk to you about something.”

“Is everything okay?” He sits up in his seat, concern already etching its way into his features.

“Everything’s fine. Don’t you worry.” She takes a moment to carefully choose her words. “It’s about your father.”

As soon as the sentence leaves her lips, all trace of emotion falls from his face as he sits back and downs the last of his drink.

“Hm. He finally die?” he asks coolly.

She knows she shouldn’t have been taken aback by such a response, but she found the sharp turn of his mood to be slightly jarring, even now.

“No, that’s not it.”

“Evil never really does die, I guess,” he says with a shrug.

“So what is it?” His gaze stays focused on the view outside of the large window, a technique learned in therapy to keep himself grounded.

“He’s been asking about you. Asking to see you. I wanted to give you a head’s up beforehand.”

“A head’s up?” he bites back a laugh. “I'm not gonna kill the man.”

Not that he’s never considered it.

March-ish, 2006, Dallas

A fourteen-year-old Isaiah polishes off the last of his breakfast, placing his dishes in the sink before heading off to Lincoln Jr. High. His mother isn’t there to see him off once again, having had to work her fourth double this week at Halifax Memorial Hospital, while his father had never seen him off, not once.

Third period English rolls around, and he receives a recent term paper face down. A big, red D is at the top right hand corner with a note saying “See me after class”. He sighs, rolling his eyes to the ceiling.

The bell rings, and his classmates file out, but he lags behind.

“Come sit down.” Miss Braxton motions to the empty seat nearest her desk.

He follows her instruction and plops down into the seat.

“Care to explain this unfocused, uninspired, half-attempt of an essay you decided to turn in?” she says while looking over the rim of her glasses.

He replies with a shrug of his shoulders and a barely audible “I don’t know.”

“Listen, I expect this kind of work from some of my students, but not you, Isaiah. I’ve seen what you’re capable of, and this,” she picks up the paper, waving it slightly for emphasis before continuing, “is nowhere near close. Remember, I’ve been your teacher since you were little, in the first grade always asking me for a new book to read. I see you doing big things and this lackadaisical attitude you’ve taken on isn’t going to get you there.”

A silence falls over the room as her words take a moment to run through his head.

“Um, imma be late for fourth period, so I gotta go,” he says, wanting to run far away from this conversation.

“You’re free to go. Don’t forget what I’ve said, okay?”

He nods, booking it for the door.

Harshly, he wipes at the tears just making their way down his face. He curses himself for his feelings.

“Well, if it ain’t my favorite punk ass bitch. Doing what he does best. Fuckin’ cryin’.” He’s greeted by the school bully, Darius, a thorn in his side for almost a year now.

“Your daddy ain’t teach you how to be a man yet? Oh I forgot, you don’t even know who the fuck he is. Just you and your mama. I see why you’re such a bitch.”

“Darius, don’t fuck with me today,” he warns, trying to get past the boy.

“Or what?? You gon’ run and tell mommy on me? I’m so scared. Fuck outta here,” the bully retorts, blocking his path and pushing the smaller boy in the center of his chest.

Without much thought, Isaiah cocks his hand back and clocks Darius directly in his eye. The blows don’t stop once he’s down though. He continues to rain blow after blow to his face while he’s crouched over his fallen form shouting profanities the entire while.

It takes two grown male teachers to finally pry him off the boy. He needs to be damn near dragged to the principal’s office.

His mother is less than pleased when she’s called out of work due to her son practically mauling the school bully.

Little did she know, that was only the beginning…

He sighs, coming back to the present moment.

“I didn’t think you would, son. I just thought it might be helpful to know,” she responds, to which he simply nods.

“Listen, whatever you decide to do, baby, mama’s got your back.” 

She places her hand over his and squeezes, which causes him to look back at her. He softens immediately, seeing his mother’s eyes shine with nothing but love and concern for him.

“I know.”

“Good.”

He uses the drive back to the office to compose himself into the man that his coworkers recognize.

Mya notices something off when he walks back into the office. To the untrained eye, he looks fine, but there’s a look in eye that she can name, being all too familiar with it herself.

After a meeting she could barely pay attention to,  she’s at the end of her workday, still consumed by what could be wrong with her normally cheerful coworker.

Deciding not to press him about it, she instead extends an offer to spend the evening with her.

“Hey,” she gently catches his attention as he’s walking toward the large, glass double doors.

He turns, giving her a smile that doesn’t quite reach his eyes.

“Hey Mya. What’s up?”

She shifts her weight, almost feeling nervous. 

“Yeah, I just wanted to ask you if you wanted to come over to my house...if you could use the company. I know I could.”

He doesn’t answer right away, and she feels her heart start to sink. 

Seconds later, though, she’s gifted a smile much more genuine than earlier and she visibly relaxes.

“I’d love that.”

Extending his arm to her, she accepts, linking them together as they walk out of the building.

 A smooth playlist curated by Mya plays in the background as the pair lounges on her porch swing.

She’s upright while Isaiah's head is in her lap.

There are no words spoken between the two of them, but the silence is comfortable. 

She uses her slippered foot to softly rock them.

His eyes are closed while she runs her fingers through his soft coils.

Her gaze, however, is focused on the group of little brown girls across the street who are out playing jump rope.

The clack of their beaded hair, coupled with their laughter brings about a feeling of warmth.

“What is it that makes a man not want to be a father?”

Her eyes darted down toward the man in her lap, whose eyes are still closed.

Her fingers continue their relaxing pattern across his scalp, unsure of how to answer that.

He continues, “It’s like they don’t know or don’t fuckin’ care about the broken pieces they leave behind when they do that. And you know what the cold part about it is?”

She remains silent, knowing the answer is coming.

“He’s not even responsible for fixing the shit. Making sure I never turned out like him was 100 percent up to me. Tell me that’s not fucked up.”

He goes quiet for a moment, but she doesn’t feel compelled to break it.

She’s stunned by this new piece of him that he’s shared with her with no provocation from her.

“My father wants to see me. Wants to talk,” he finally reveals after several more moments of silence.

“How do you feel about it?” She asks cautiously.

There’s a pause before he responds, “I don’t know.”

“Well… until you know how you feel about it, I wouldn't make any final decisions. Process it first, you know?”

A sort of huffing sigh leaves him, before silence takes back over.

The slight, late October breeze blows over them, lightly tousling her hair across her face.

She removes the random strands, still maintaining her rocking with her foot.

“How would you handle this situation?” Isaiah asks, his eyes now open and looking up at her.

Not answering right away, her rocking stops. Instead it turns into a steady bounce with the opposite foot, as she tries to conjure up words for a moment such as that.

“I wouldn’t know. I haven’t talked to my father in years. Guess I’d have to process it, too.” She laughs, but it’s far from humorous.

Her eyes stay trained on the pastel numbered boxes from the hopscotch game the girls had played earlier, keeping her emotions at bay.

“Sorry. I didn’t mean to make this about me.”

“You didn’t. It’s okay.” He sits up, his softened gaze on her reddened face.

“I guess we’re more alike than we realized.” He offers a laugh, which she returns. Yet, her slight frown gives her away.

“I’m sorry you have to go through this. It ain’t right.” She shakes her head.

“It’s not your fault, don’t be sorry. I’m just glad you listened. That was tough to share.”

“I understand.” She finally looks in his direction.

The lingering emptiness in their eyes mirror one another, making them feel far too vulnerable.

“Can I take you up on that hot toddy you were talking about?” He asks.

She laughs, holding out her hand for him to take.

“I thought you’d never ask.”

[ittybittylee]

Jax Tickle hcs 💜✨

- Lee

* Even though he may be an asshole he tends to get very flustered while being tickled. This is because he’s not used to anyone seeing him all soft like that

* thus he feels embarrassed

* And does not wanna screw up his “Reputation”

* Will instantly melt in your hands

* He has that cackling yet snarky kinda laugh?? the kind that gives you butterflies

* He has very ticklish feets ///that are also very fluffy

* His neck, stomach and hips are also very sensitive, even a slight poke could send him into a giggling fit

* He lets on that he absolutely HATES being teased and will do everything in his power to push you away to prevent you from teasing him

* Making Eye contact while tickling him makes him even more flustered

* But he secretly enjoys it, makes him weak in the knees

* Kicks his feet when tickled

* Will not ask for you to stop because he “refuses to beg anyone” so once the damage has been done he’ll just accept his fate

* ^If you confront him about it he’ll get all embarrassed and start shouting at you to “shut up!”

* Will 100% use the excuse “how could I have of asked you to stop when you were nearly tickling me to death?! I couldn’t even breathe nonetheless get a single word out!”

( he could’ve easily IF he wanted to )

* He absolutely adores aftercare, he’ll snuggle right up in your lap and rest his head on your shoulder

* He loves having his ears rubbed, especially if you hold his head while doing so

* Whether or not he’ll admit it, he loves every minute of it

* “You tell anybody that I’m ticklish and you’re dead. and that’s not a threat, that’s a promise got it?”

- Ler

* Extremely teasing, smug mischievous ler

* perfect balance between rough and gentle tickles

*is a mean ler

* Absolutely LOVES getting a reaction out of you especially seeing you blush

* Laughs at you while tickling because he thinks it’s funny to see you completely helpless

* Finds it hysterical when you snort/squeak/wheeze and will bully you for it //affectionately

* Will do everything he possibly can to get you all flushed and embarrassed just because he knows how much you hate it

* Will not hesitate to absolutely wreck you

* Can and will most definitely tease you especially with baby talk

* This mf will purposely taunt you by saying “Cootchie cootchie coo” over and over again to embarrass the living hell out of you

* You can beg for him to stop but he won’t, not until you’re all wheezy and breathless

* Loves to taunt you by saying “I’m gonna getcha” in a very sinister voice and at the most random times

* you can tell just by the smirk on his face he’s planning an “unexpected” tickle attack

* His lanky fingers make it easier to scribble away into those hard to reach sweet spots ( inner neck, etc )

* Finds it hilarious whenever he gets a reaction out of you

* “Heh what’s the matter? Does that tickle~? Too bad because I’m gonna do it anyway~”

* Will never let you live it down. Ever.

* Will wiggle his fingers at you on purpose just to make you flinch or blush

* Great aftercare, loves to hold you

* Asks you if you’re okay, hoping that he didn’t take it too far

* He makes sure you’re okay before carrying on with the rest of his day and acting like nothing ever happened

* will threaten to tell the others that you’re extremely ticklish but won’t actually tell them

[hwaslayer]

project: make you love me (jyh) | five.

♣︎ spotify playlist | series masterlist

—summary: yunho can’t stand how you’re so wrapped up in the notorious campus fuckboy, park seonghwa. he would gladly love you the way you deserve, despite being shy, awkward and the complete opposite of seonghwa. thus, when he finds himself spending more time with you over literature reviews and random study sessions, he decides to take on the challenge to win you over.

—pairing: jeong yunho x f. reader x park seonghwa

—genre: (18+ - minors dni) strangers/friends to lovers, college au | fluff, angst, smut

—word count: 4.5k

—chapter content/warnings: some cussing, witty & sweet yunho,  seungmin being the true best friend that he is, college mcdonalds runs lol, yunho and oc talk a bit about the past, they also talk about seonghwa a bit, quick flashback scene - crying & heartbreak :/ , yunho really thinks oc is the cutest, i promise we are making progress even though it seems slow!! 

It's been a couple of days since you last heard from Seonghwa, and to be quite frank, you don't really care much for it. It does suck, and it does hurt. But, at this point, you've done enough on your end and you can say you've always tried.

Seonghwa? Not so much.

"I'm fucked." You let out a heavy sigh as your face falls into the palms of your hands, stressing about your literature paper due.

You barely have the two paragraphs done, and your notes are all over the place.

What are you even saying anymore?

You're going in circles, and Dr. Nelson will know you didn't even try to make this work. The best part? This wasn't the only major paper assigned for the semester— you're not even sure how you'll tackle the other ones without leaning on Yunho for help.

"Doing okay there?" You hear a familiar, husky voice, followed by the sound of a bag being placed on the shared tabletop. You look up to see Yunho, and you're really relieved he's here. Even if you weren't going to try and bother him much about this paper, his presence was comforting.

"I don't know."

"That's not good." He chuckles before sliding his laptop out of his bag. "How can I help you?"

"Well, first of all, I'm really glad you're here."

"It is the booth I frequently work at." He teases with a smirk. "I see you've grown a liking to it."

"It's nice and quiet. Plus, I know I can find you here." He smiles and nods. "Second, it's Dr. Nelson."

"The paper?"

"Yes." You whine, again placing your head down onto the desk. "Why is this so difficult? Words are not coming to me, and even if they do, do they even make sense? I don't even know—" You mumble on and on, and Yunho can barely make out what you're saying. But, it's clear you're distressed and Yunho can't help but be a little endeared seeing this.

At least you care enough to do your best.

"Y/N." He calls for your name softly. "Slow down, it's gonna be okay. Let me know how I can help you." You finally look up with a pout.

"I don't want to rely on you."

"You're not relying on me when you ask for help. It's okay." He tries to lighten the mood. "Now seriously, how can I help? Do I need to run and buy you a mochi donut?" You giggle and shake your head.

"No, no." You pass along your laptop to let him view the screen. "Read this introduction. Does it make sense?" He furrows his brows a bit while reading your paragraph but nods to acknowledge what you've written so far.

"It does. Why do you think it doesn't make sense?"

"I guess I'm just not sure where to take this."

"Hm. You should give yourself more credit than that." He smiles at you. "You've already stated a couple of general ideas here. Why don't you take those and develop your body paragraphs that way? Those obviously stood out to you the most, so I'm sure you'll remember where to find it in the book."

"True."

"Don't second-guess yourself. I know it's hard because Dr. Nelson is in your head, but you really have the right idea. You just have to give him more than what he knows. Almost like—" Yunho tilts his head for a second as if to show he's deep in thought. "—Like okay, do you journal?"

"Yes, sometimes. Not all the time."

"You don't have to give me details, but what do you journal about? Just in general." Yunho patiently waits and keeps his eyes on you while you think. 

"Feelings. Thoughts. Emotions."

"Right. When you're sad, you talk about why you're sad and how it affects you, your day, mood. Everything. You write about all these details and elaborate on the feeling."

"Yeah, exactly."

"Then, it's just like that. You already write about these things in your personal life. It's the same elaboration, same kind of thought process." You nod as Yunho pushes your laptop back towards you. "What I'm trying to say is, don't think much about it. Just write what comes to mind and don't overthink it."

"You know what, you're right. I need to stop overthinking and just do it." You grab at your laptop, feeling better after Yunho's advice. "Thanks, Yunho. I needed that." 

"Happy to help." 

"Are you going to leave soon?" He shakes his head.

"I was hoping to get some work done." You look at him and he catches the way your eyes light up. 

"You're going to stay?" You ask him again for some kind of reassurance.

"Mhm." A smile tugs at the corner of your lips just as you start to type away more confidently.

"Sorry I took over your booth." You say with your eyes glued to your screen, making Yunho chuckle.

"I'll share it with you." You let out a tiny laugh at this response.

During the entire two hours you spent with Yunho at the booth, he was diligently finishing up his own paper before switching gears to focus on the remaining aspects of his other project. In between, he would patiently read your paper when you asked, giving you his feedback and some areas of improvement. You took them positively, adding in Yunho's tips into your paper and finishing off a good chunk before it could get way too late in the evening.

Of course, there comes a point where you get hungry and restless. That moment feels like now, especially when the words are starting to blur together in the last bit of the body. Oh well.

Yunho must be good at reading people though, because he picks up on the dwindling excitement, the dying energy, your tone change; the way you restlessly shake your legs and shift in your seat.

It's time to call it a night. 

"Did you drive today?" You shake your head.

"No. I'm stuck here until Seungmin is done with his group project. But, I guess it's good since it'll force me to work on more things."

"Do you have to work on more things?" You giggle.

"Yes, but not really? They're due next week, and they're quick assignments."

"Cool. Down for some McDonalds, then? I can drive us. I can bring you home afterwards too, or back here. Whichever works." Yunho zips up his bag and patiently waits for your response. "No pressure, though."

"I'm down for some McDonald's." You chuckle, packing up your things. "I think I've done enough, right?" Yunho laughs a bit while watching you.

"You've done more than enough for today, Y/N. You're almost done with your paper. That's big progress."

"Thank you." You smile at him while zipping up your bag. "Alright, I'm ready." Yunho gestures for you to slide out of the booth first, with him following behind. He twirls his keychain around his finger as the two of you walk out of the library— the air hitting your face just as the doors swing open; cold, but refreshing. 

"Cold?" Yunho looks down at you, almost ready to shed off his light jacket in order to keep you comfortable.

"Um, no. I should be good." You look up at him. "Besides, I don't wanna keep taking your jackets." He chuckles.

"I don't mind. Just let me know."

"Okay." It falls silent for a bit before you break the silence, kicking the rocks beneath your shoes. "How's your project coming along?"

"Hm." He hums. "It's going. As good as it gets for now, I guess."

"You and Yeosang don't team up for these things?" He laughs.

"Not really. We've talked about assignments before, but it's not a hot topic in the apartment. I think I might have brainstormed around Yeosang but he doesn't do much besides give off the usual 'sounds good to me.'"

"Mm, I see. He's quite the mystery." You gently nudge his arm. "You both are."

"Yeah, can't deny that." He lets out a small breathy laugh, flashing his key fob towards his car so that it unlocks. "Got lucky with parking today."

"That's always the best." You chuckle. 

"Speaking of roommates, Seungmin knows you're coming along right? Don't want him to go looking for you."

"He knows. Trust me, even if he didn't, he wouldn't look for me." He smiles a bit when he sees your phone light up in your hands, signaling a text coming through. "Actually, speak of the devil."

"Oh, so he wouldn't look for you?" Yunho asks in a teasing manner, making the heat rise to your cheeks.

"It really must be your lucky day cause he doesn't always do this."

"He's your friend, he wouldn't leave you."

"He wouldn't! But, he'd also assume Chaery or Soobin might have already picked me up before asking." You laugh. "Can't stand him, but love him."

"Cute." Yunho says just as he drives off to the nearest McDonald's. It's only an exit away from where campus us located, and it's a quick drive being that it's pretty late in the evening. 

seungmin: bro where r u

seungmin: r u with park seonghwa

you: noooo! sorry i was gonna text you but you surprisingly beat me to it

you: i'm with yunho, gonna grab mcdonalds then he'll take me home. want anything?

seungmin: oh, did you guys end up working together in the library? and i'm good on the mcdonalds. ty ☺️

you: mhm! alright. did you finish your project?

seungmin: almost, was looking for you because i wasnt sure if you still wanted to stay and i was gonna take you home. i truly think we'll be here till closing.. 

seungmin: rip me

you: aw seungmo

you: almost done! goodluck! don't worry about me 😬

seungmin: don't worry i'm not

you: lol sick of you, go away

You giggle to yourself as you tuck your phone away and return your attention to the road ahead.

"So, what are you getting?" You turn to Yunho, who is focused on driving carefully with you in his passenger's seat; one hand placed on the wheel, while the other rests on his lap.

"The entire menu at this point." You laugh. "I'm starving."

"You didn't eat today?"

"Barely. Just grabbed something small in between the break I had."

"Yunho." You look at him with concern. "That's not good! You have to eat."

"Yeah, I know. Trust me, I'll never pass up the opportunity on purpose. Just had bad time management today, I guess." 

"Should I send you reminders?" You joke, but he shrugs.

"No, but that'd be cute if you did." He laughs. "But seriously, I'm usually better."

"Okay, Yunho. I'm holding you to it." You give him a toothless smile just as he pulls up into the McDonald's drive-thru. 

"You know what you want?" He asks as he momentarily stops in front of the menu before pulling up to the main drive-thru speaker.

"Mhm. Can you please just get me the 10 pc nugget meal?"

"Anything else?" You shake your head and wait patiently while Yunho relays the orders. He pulls up to the first window to pay before he heads to the second to grab the orders. He gently hands the two bags over to you before setting the drinks down in his cupholders. "How much do I owe you?" You ask as he pulls out of the lot.

"Don't worry about it."

"Yunho? Stop. Let me pay."

"Nope." He glances over at you as you cross your arms and furrow your brows. "Still a no." He laughs.

"Come on, really?"

"It's not a big deal, Y/N. I got you." You sigh.

"Fine. I'll just have to get you brunch again."

"Don't. Please just let me treat you to something. You don't have to repay me." You look at him and find that he's serious. So, you nod and let it go.

"Where are we going?" You ask when you realize you're traveling in the opposite direction of your apartment complex.

"Oh, sorry. I know this view, and I thought I could take you there while we eat. I-Is that okay with you?" He clears his throat again and taps his fingers against the wheel. "I-I mean, I don't mind driving back. Really, it's whatever you wanna—"

"Yunho, please." You giggle. "I would love to eat at a view."

"Okay. Cool." He simply says, relieved that you're down to eat with him at a view. It might sound really cliché and pathetic, but he loves coming here when he just needs a moment—

A moment to breathe,

A moment to just be.

And right now, he feels like you could use that. He doesn't really know what else happens in your personal life, and he doesn't wanna ask unless you start that conversation yourself. But, shit happens. Life is life; we're all going through it. He knows you've been stressing over classes, over Park Seonghwa [even though he damn well doesn't deserve it]. 

Yunho just wants you to relax.

He pulls into a very tiny spot off to the side near a residential and backs into the open area. In front of you is the view of the ocean; the sound of waves crashing against the rocks, the shore. Stars dotting the night sky.

It was a perfectly clear night. A perfect night.

"Hm, I never knew this existed." You say observing the almost hidden, tucked away area of this part of the beach. "It's really pretty."

"I come here if I just need to be away for a second." You nod.

"Perfect place to have your me-time."

"Mhm." He agrees. 

"When are you seeing your mom next?" You suddenly ask as you both dig into your bags and start chomping on a few fries.

"This weekend actually."

"Aw, no Yunho for the weekend."

"It's not like you'll be missing much."

"Hey, don't say that. You're great company, I told you. I meant it." You dip a nugget into your cup of honey mustard sauce. It makes his heart melt when you say things like this, when you unknowingly reassure him in many different ways— when you're so full of positivity and all you do is share it with him, your friends. 

How could Seonghwa be so dumb?

Oh well.

One man's 'trash,' that's another man's come up.

"Thanks." 

"Course." You smile at him before eating some more. "I'm glad you're seeing her this weekend. I'll try not to bother you during family time."

"You're never a bother."

"Still. I want you to give your mom and aunt your undivided attention."

"Ah, they always have my undivided attention." He chuckles and sips his drink. "Are you feeling better, by the way?" Yunho sticks a fry or two into his mouth before looking back out to the view.

"Feeling better?" You tilt your head before it dawns on you. That's right, the call. The fucking call where you whined about Seonghwa even though you really didn't have to, especially to Yunho. "Oh, right. Honestly, yeah. I think I'm okay."

"You sure?"

"Yeah." You sip on your drink. "It was a spur in the moment kind of thing. I didn't really think much about it at the time and acted on what I felt at that second. But you're right, I didn't need to feel guilty. There was no reason to."

"There wasn't." He looks at you. "Have you two talked?" You shake your head.

"No, we haven't. It's fine, though. I'm surprisingly.. not bothered by it like I used to be." You let out a small sigh. "I used to be really bothered by not hearing from him. I used to cave during every disagreement we had and I'd run back to him."

"Maybe this is you moving on." Yunho shrugs. "Like I said, I wouldn't know much about things like this. But, I can only imagine it gets tiring."

"Yeah." Is all you respond with before calling his name. "Yunho?"

"Mhm?" He responds at the same softness as you do, doe-eyes glancing back over at you just as you chomp on a nugget.

"How were your past relationships, if you don't mind me asking?"

"I don't. But, past relationships?" You furrow your brows a bit in confusion, but Yunho lets out a laugh. "My only serious relationship was in high school. We dated since freshman year, then we broke up right before we went to college."

"Oh, I'm sorry. That must have been tough."

"It was. But, it was for the best. I didn't wanna hold her back and vice versa from a new chapter in our lives, plus she was going to college overseas. There was no way it was going to work."

"I'm sure it could've since you two loved each other."

"Yeah, but I think at that point love meant letting her go and letting her experience things freely. I would've felt selfish and guilty about it." Yunho thinks back to that moment, and the feeling settles in his gut a bit. Not like it used to, no. But, those times weren't his favorite, and they've always left a mark on him.

♣︎ FLASHBACK

"Hey." Yunho says lowly, already not wanting to be here. He looks at Hayun with sadness in his eyes, and it's clear that she already knows where this is going too. 

"Hi." She quietly says, head dropping as she steps aside to let him in. It's quiet in the house and Yunho hates it. It's quiet, even though his thoughts are extremely loud.

He hates this.

Hayun shuts the door and leads the way up to her room. Yunho is so familiar with this, but today— it feels oddly unfamiliar, awkward. Hurtful. Sad.

Different.

She steps inside and her movements are small. She sits on the edge of her bed just as Yunho shuts the door and takes his place next to her. He lets out a breath, hands dug deep into the pocket of his hoodie. They both stare out her window, admiring the view together knowing this is probably the last time they'll get to do so. But, Yunho breaks away first, looking over at Hayun and admiring her features.

She is beautiful. She is sweet. She is everything to him. 

But, he knows he has to do this. It's only right.

"You're leaving this weekend, right?" Hayun meets his eyes and nods with a tiny smile creeping at the corner of her lips.

"Mhm."

"You're going to enjoy it there. I know you will."

"Maybe." Her head falls again, eyes now focused on her hands as she fiddles with the thread of her pajama pants.

"You don't sound too excited."

"How am I supposed to sound excited when I know you're here for a specific reason?" She looks at him, and he sees the tears welling up in her eyes. It breaks his heart, but he knows he has to do this. It's only right.

"I'm sorry." He says lowly. "You know it's for the best, love." The tears are welling up in his eyes now— he truly, truly hates this. "I'm so sorry."

"Then, why?" She cries. "Wouldn't we be able to make this work? I'd call, and I'd come home to visit and—" He shakes his head and wipes her tears, thumb caressing the surface of her cheeks.

"See, that's exactly why. I don't want you to make this experience about me. You should be enjoying yourself, you should be experiencing everything you wanna experience out there. You shouldn't be shaping college around me."

"But I'm not, I can do both. I can—"

"Love, listen." He says close to a whisper. "You and I both know we're only prolonging what'll eventually happen. We're so young, we have so many things yet to experience. Being this far apart, we'll outgrow each other, and we'll end up hurting each other in so many ways." Her bottom lip trembles and pokes out, tears continuing to streak her cheeks. But, she doesn't say anything. She knows this is what needs to happen. She knows Yunho is only doing the right thing. She knows that everything he's saying is true. "I'll never be able to forgive myself if you don't experience all of this at your full potential. You have so much ahead of you, Hayun. And because I love you, all I want is for you to be happy. That's all I want for you."

"Yunho." She cries. "I'm so sorry. I hate this. I'm so sorry." She repeats, over and over again; though, Yunho isn't sure why she's apologizing. He doesn't want her to regret anything about them, about this. Yunho pulls her into his arms, hugging her tightly while repeatedly kissing her on the top of her head. He whispers sweet nothings against her head, reassuring her that he loves her, that he just wants the best for her.

That he's okay.

Even though, he's far from okay.

♣︎ END

"True." You pause to nibble on your food some more. "You haven't dated anyone after your ex?" He shakes his head.

"No. It wasn't really a priority for me. Plus, we had been together all throughout high school. I needed the time to myself." You nod.

"Understandable. Have you talked to her since then?"

"Not really. I ran into her one summer, and she acted like she didn't really know me. Kinda sad, but it's whatever."

"It's not whatever. You can be sad about that."

"It's just sad how people go from doing everything together and being really close, to suddenly being strangers again. We were very different when we ran into each other." He shrugs. "I just hope she's doing well."

"And I'm sure she wishes the same for you. Maybe she just didn't know how to approach you after so long."

"Maybe."

"Maybe." You repeat as you trace the lid to your drink while you sip on it, Yunho watching your small movements while remaining quiet for a bit.

"What about you?" He chimes in, finally having the guts to ask you.

"Past relationships?" You shrug. "I did date two people in high school. Came to college and was seeing someone I met through mutual friends. Never got super serious though, and we eventually agreed to just stay friends." 

"I see."

"We're still good friends so it's nice we were able to actually get past that." 

"That's good. What about Seonghwa? How did that start?"

"He came up to me after one of my performances, exchanged numbers then.. viola." You make a gesture with your hand. "This mess started." You chuckle to yourself, slightly in a more pathetic sense because yeah, it is a mess. Has been.

"It's alright. We live and we learn. Just unfortunate he's too immature to realize what's in front of him." 

"Yeah, well." You set your cup down. "I think that's done with."

"Good, that's a relief." It is a relief to Yunho because that means many things:

One, you won't be with Seonghwa.

Two, you won't be with Seonghwa.

And three, you won't be with Seonghwa.

He's not even sure of his own feelings when it comes to you, but he does know that he really enjoys your company and he feels comfortable with you. It's easy to fall for you and Yunho might be heading in that direction— he just doesn't wanna scare you off, especially if you don't seem to feel the same way. Before Yunho can do a whole deep dive of his thoughts next to you, he clears his throat before stumbling on his follow-up: "I-I mean, it's good because he doesn't deserve you at all. You shouldn't continue wasting your time on him or anything." You giggle.

"Thanks, Yunho. You did help me realize that over the phone."

"I didn't say or do much. You're making your own decisions and doing what's best for you." He gives you a small smile. Another comfortable silence falls between you two as you look out at the view and appreciate the stars that are visible in the night's sky. 

"Hey, Yunho?" You finally break the silence again, and it's clear Yunho doesn't mind. He truly doesn't mind all the questions you've had, and he likes hearing you say his name the way you do. It's cute. 

You genuinely want to know more about him, to learn about him.

"Mhm?" 

"Would it be weird if I said that I really like being with you?" He lets out a small laugh.

"Well, I would hope so." He gives you a soft smile while you giggle. "But no, not weird at all. I feel the same way."

"That's nice to know."

"Yeah, it is." He crumples his napkin and throws it into his bag, reaching out a hand for yours. "Finished?" You nod and hand him your trash, watching as Yunho makes his way to the nearby trash can.

"Thank you." You say just as he walks back towards the car.

"My pleasure." Yunho stretches.

"Hold on, I wanna see the water up close." You step out and head towards the railing, leaning over to watch the water crash against the rocks, the wall. Yunho smiles to himself and digs his hands in his pockets, slowly coming towards the rail. He looks at you from behind, watching as you admire the sea, the night sky.

Meanwhile, he's admiring you.

He lets out a breath and shakes off the thoughts, coming next to you and letting his arm brush against yours. He also leans over to watch the water more closely, foot resting on the lowest rail for more stability.

"It's so pretty." Yunho looks at you and he can't help but agree— because yes, you are.

"It is." He responds outloud.

"This was really nice, Yunho." You look up at him with a tiny, toothless smile. "Thanks for sharing this with me and for taking me here."

"Just wanted to see you smile." You feel the heat rise to your cheeks, and Yunho feels his ears getting hotter. How embarrassing. But, thank god it's nighttime and you can't see him visibly getting shy, embarrassed. "Ready to head back home? You must be exhausted."

"I am." You yawn as you start to walk back towards the car and get settled into the seats. "But, I did get lots done."

"You did." He starts up the car and starts heading back towards the apartment complex. "What are you gonna do when you get home?"

"Probably just lie down and talk to Chaery in the room." You chuckle. "You?"

"Hop on a game or just watch some stuff."

"I wanna see what your apartment looks like." He laughs a bit.

"One day."

"Promise?"

"There isn't anything special about it, Y/N. I promise you that."

"But, I just wanna see what Yunho's space is like." You say in a playful tone.

"Yunho's space is boring." He retorts.

"I'm sure it's not. So, promise me? One day I'll get to see it?"

"Sure."

"Say it, please." You pout, making Yunho shake his head. 

"Promise."

"Better." You giggle, settling more into the passenger's seat. You and Yunho continue to talk a bit about the remainder of the week, not realizing that the weekend was quickly approaching.

By the end of the conversation, Yunho is pulling into the complex parking lot and effortlessly parking into his usual spot. He grabs your things from the trunk and hands over your bag, following behind you as you walk towards your building.

"Yunho, I'm just here. You don't have to walk me."

"I sure do." He replies. "It's fine, I need to make sure you make it to your door in one piece."

"I appreciate it." You give him a small smile. "Thanks again for today. I really enjoyed it, well— minus the work that had to get done first."

"Of course." Yunho smiles, stopping at the stairs. He digs his hands into his pockets, watching as you reach the top of the first flight and turning to face him.

"More McDonald's runs in the future?"

"Sounds good."

"Goodnight, Yunho."

"Goodnight, Y/N." You give him one last wave before you make your way to your apartment. When he hears the door shut, he turns on his heel to make his journey to his own apartment.

♣︎ taglist: @s-nsanshine @soupbinlily @tyongff-ff @jiminiscricket @g1g1l @staytinyinmybpack @woomyteez @gfksz @bitchwhytho @savluvsmingi @thisisntmyrightera @hyukssunflower @miriamxsworld @tmtxtf @kuromibabe04 @lmnhead @carrietwrites @tournesol155 @persphonesorchid @txt-yaomi @marsattacks @mxnsxngie @h-nji @mundayoonimnida @jalapeno-princess @nakiiko @asjkdk @kunikku @idkwgoh [bold = can’t tag 😔]

[neptune-scythe]

Do you ever think about how Kaz making sure Inej is reunited with her brother is so he doesn't have to deal with his own grief?

Hear me out

Obviously he cares about Inej and wants her to have her family back and that's his main focus, or at least his main focus consciously

But here's the thing

They're mirrors of each other. Two people who lost brothers, Kaz's is gone forever ... But inej's is still out there (probably). Now we all know Kaz has never dealt with his grief, and probably barely even acknowledges it, mostly because he doesn't know how. That's not something people just ... Know how to do, grief is a process and if you don't have a single other person to help you or even be the slightest bit supportive it's going to be nearly impossible to grieve in a healthy way. Let alone being in a constant state of survival mode having to watch your back all the time because you're a kid in a very dangerous place and pretty much ever single person is an enemy, or at least not someone trustworthy or helpful. But I hella digress my bad

My point is Kaz hasn't dealt with the loss of his brother (why have I not used his name once? Bitch idfk my bad Jordie you deserve better bestie), which was a meaningless death. And by that I mean Jordie didn't sacrifice himself for some cause, he wasn't a casualty of a greater issue ... He just died. Because that what people do.

And especially for a kid who's all alone with not a single soul left on the earth who gives a damn about him, that's a pretty tricky concept to grasp. That your whole world, the most imporant person in your life could just die ... Just be completely gone in a moment. Thus why Kaz immediately blames Pekka and devotes his life to revenge, even though Pekka was only indirectly involved in Jodie's death. But blaming Pekka gives his death a meaning, it means there's something he can do to make it mean something.

Once again super digressed from my main point whoopsieeee. Hope y'all are enjoying the wild ride of my thoughts rn (I'm literally just stream of consciousness writing this shit, and for shits and giggles imma leave it that way no edits this is a first draft post you're welcome)

N E WAY

Jodie's death WAIT A SECOND HOW MANY TIMES HAS IT AUTOCORRECTED TO JODIE 💀

I'll never know because I'm not rereading this shit

Anyway

JORDIE's death meant nothing, and Kaz's revenge on Pekka didn't give it meaning either ... Which he probably knew deep down that it wouldn't. But those are the kinds of thoughts we ✨silence✨ because we need the rage for vengeance to keep us alive and doing things.

Now back to Inej and Harij.

Reuniting them will for Kaz make his own situation mean something (in my opinion don't at me these my head canon thoughts). That even though he can't bring his own brother back, he can bring back hers. And knowing that they're together will make his own grief a little easier to bear. It balances it out, if you will.

Two brothers lost, one brother found. Good math

OK BUT ALSO HAVE YOU CONSIDERED

Harij is Inej's younger brother

So consider Kaz is doing it as much for him as for Inej. He's making sure another little boy (he's obviously not a little boy anymore but like ... He was 12 ((idk how old he'd be know)) and that's plenty young) doesn't have to lose his older sibling forever.

And also consider

Kaz knows he doesn't deserve Inej, he knows he most likely won't always have her ... And more importantly she won't always have him.

He won't always be able to protect her, to keep her safe. But her brother could. Her brother could be there for her and her support her and even do a far better job (probs idk what bros personality is like but I bet Kaz Brekker is assuming shit too) than Kaz could. So by reuniting her with her brother he's making sure she's taken care of, that even if he lets her down, she'll never be alone.

Because real talk her

Y'all are allowed to have your head canons and shit I am NOT gatekeeping

But canonically Kaz Brekker is not the jealous or possessive type. If Inej wanted to leave him for someone else he'd be upset yeah but he's knows full well Inej is a living Saint and worth far more than he could ever deserve in a billion lifetimes, and he's also far more concerned with her happiness and well-being than what she can provide for him.

So he'd be satisfied being away from her, not knowing a single thing about her life, as long as he knows her brother is there with her.

He doesn't need to take care of her, he just needs to know that she is taken care of.

I rest my case

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Thank you for coming to my TedTalk 🫡

(addition because I did actually reread it and damn I somehow forgot my entire point???

So yeah

About him using reuniting Harij and Inej as a way to avoid dealing with his grief.

It's like this

Brother dies

Kaz goes straight to revenge, never actually processes any of it, just jumps straight into making Pekka pay for it ... Which tbh is dealing with it in a sense but it's in a very passive way of going straight to doing without ever processing ... If that makes sense.

And that's repaying violence with violence, which leads to more violence. It's a cycle of destruction that Kaz is playing into, which is very hard to get out of once it starts.

But reuniting Harij and Inej is a break in that cycle. It's Kaz using his own pain as motivation and incentive to do something that will heal others. And making sure that neither Inej nor Harij get caught in the same cycle as Kaz did, it's using his own knowledge of that cycle to protect others from it. And more specifically, he doesn't know how to heal himself, he doesn't know how to move on or process and grieve, he doesn't know how to leave the cycle ... So he's helping Inej and Harij heal from their pain instead, and making sure they never enter the cycle.

Because he probably is well aware that revenge isn't the healthiest way to channel grief (but bro doesn't care because Pekka needs to be put in his place and we stan him for that), but channeling it into helping someone he loves is healthy.

And real talk here

Kaz probably believes he will never move on or heal from Jordie's death. Thus him being trapped in the ouroboros of suffering ... And go with me here.

If we view the ouroboros (snake eating its own tail if y'all don't know) as a literal scenario Kaz is trapped in, it's a mental prison basically, and one he has accepted that he will never leave. His fate is sealed, and he can't do anything to save himself from that.

BUT even if he can't ever break out of the ouroboros, he can keep others out, he can't save himself but he can save others from being trapped there as well.

And because of this he won't have to deal with the fact that he's trapped, he can focus all his energy on keeping others out ... And it gives it meaning. That even though he's trapped forever and can't do anything for himself, he can do something for other people because of it. Because the only way to avoid the ouroboros is if someone inside warns you.

That was a wild metaphor I hope that made sense lol

Also once again these are my head canons and I wrote it from Kaz's perspective so to speak, so when I say things like He cAn NEVer HeAl that's because that's what he thinks (imo) not what is objectively true. Healing is absolutely possible and bro can get it he just doesn't know it yet.)

[xtreklx]

Summer Heat ~ Michelangelo x reader

One shot: bayverse Michelangelo x reader

Word count: 1.5k

Warnings: SFW, fluff, slightly mature themes (rated 17+, see my masterlist for disclaimer)

A/N: thank you all for the love on my latest works! it's so motivating and it has been helping me access my creativity in so many new ways! anyways, with the summer months here, this is just a fun little summer-themed one-shot that I thought up for our favorite jokester. enjoy!

__________

It was mid-July, the boiling point of summer, and in New York City, this meant humidity. Everywhere. While you were able to hang out in the sewers with your mutant turtle friends for a slight escape from the temperature, it was still hotter than you would have liked, and you were trying desperately to keep cool.

Hence why you and the turtles were sprawled throughout the lair, barely able to move because of the suffocating heat. Normally, you were all able to push through the summer days and go about your usual routines, but today was supposed to be the hottest day of the year (Donnie didn't trust the weather channel, however, and ran his own predictions to confirm that this was going to be the case). Thus, routine was abandoned and any attempts at relaxation were welcomed.

You could hear Donnie fumbling around in the lab from your horizontal spot on the living room couch. The three other brothers were in the living room with you: Raph in the arm chair ("there ain't no way I'm workin' out in heat like this"), Leo meditating in the corner ("I think this might be the only way to make the situation more bearable"), and Mikey sprawled out in the middle of the floor, periodically exclaiming "I don't know how much longer I can take the torture! The agony!" Although his brothers rolled their eyes at his overly-dramatic outbursts, none of them had the energy to protest, and it made you giggle every time.

Mikey loved the sound of your laugh. Like music to his ears, angels chorusing from the heavens. He had decided that it had to be his favorite sound in the universe. He looked up at you now from his spot on the floor, admiring how you looked as you lounged on the couch, practically nodding off into a summer nap. How could he help having feelings for you when you were out here looking like that?!

You had no idea that there was a double meaning behind Mikey's outbursts. While he was primarily referring to the torture of the paralyzing heat, he was also referring to the torture that you were causing him today. The hot weather had you wearing the tiniest little outfit: daisy duke jean shorts and a tight white tank top. He could see so much of your skin, a thin layer of sweat glistening in the overhead lights and making you look like you were glowing. He called you an angel all the time to your face, but he was serious; you looked like a straight-up angel. And with the way you were laying on the couch on your back, he was able to let his eyes roam all the way up your long legs, up to your waist, up to your chest...

Mikey had to shake himself out of his current thoughts before they went off the deep end. He was a gentleman-ly, respectable dude, he thought to himself. And even though he had feelings for you, the two of you were just friends. He couldn't let his mind go too far; it wasn't right. It made Mikey think about all the lectures that Master Splinter had given in the past about temptation and desire, and how giving in to them too frequently could result in an "unquenchable greed". But he was determined to not give in. Splinter would be proud of him for the restraint he was exhibiting!

As this was all running through his mind, Mikey unconsciously sent another glance your way. You had flipped over to lay on your stomach, your perfect ass in those tiny jean shorts taking over his line of sight. He quickly re-averted his gaze, trying to focus on anything but you.

God, this was going to be harder than he thought.

Suddenly, Donnie rushed out of his lab and into the living room with something in his arms. "Guys! I think I've crafted something that could help us get through the summer heat!" He exclaimed. Everyone turned their heads at the sound of that, even Leo breaking out of his meditative state.

Donatello set whatever was in his arms onto the side table next to the couch and plugged it into an extension cord by the wall. "I was messing with the settings of one of our old mini-fridges, and with the addition of a few new pieces of machinery, I was able to turn it into a flash freezer! We can put any liquid into these popsicle trays here," he gestured to the inside of the mini-fridge, "and it will freeze instantly! Pretty cool, right?"

Everyone present stared at the contraption, an awkward moment of silence falling over the group.

"I'm going to go meditate in my room," Leo deadpanned, standing from his spot in the corner, while Raph groaned. "Really, Donnie? You wanna solve the heat wave with... popsicles? Why don't ya put a giant band-aid on the melting ice caps while yer at it?"

But you and Mikey had eagerly sat up to attention as the two grumps left the living room. "Don't listen to them, Donnie! I think this is the perfect idea," You beamed up at him. Mikey had to avoid looking at your dazzling smile too closely in order to form coherent sentences. "Yeah, dude! Don't listen to those buzzkills, this is so sick!" He looked closer at the machine. "So, it'll really freeze anything instantly? Like... anything?"

Don eyed Mikey warily for a moment. "... I don't think I want to know what you're thinking when you say anything like that but, in theory, yes. Let me demonstrate." He pulled a can of orange crush from a box on the floor and poured it into two popsicle holders, adding two straws as the sticks, before putting them into the mini-fridge and closing the door. He pressed a button on the outside, and then the machine beeped. When he opened the little door, a gust of cold air flew out, and from the holders he pulled out two orange soda popsicles.

You and Mikey awed and wowed in excitement, taking the popsicles from Donnie and thanking him. He smiled, and picked up the mini-fridge. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to make a large batch of grape soda popsicles. And I'm definitely not going to use them as ammo in my grenade launcher towards Raphael and Leonardo. That would be ridiculous." He stood there for a moment with a calculated look on his face before turning and heading back to his lab.

You and Mikey exchanged a pointed look before simultaneously cracking up at the thought of what Donnie was definitely going to be up to later that day. When your laughter had died down, you took your first lick of the orange soda popsicle and hummed with happiness. "Mmm, this is awesome! Orange crush is my favorite!" You exclaimed, putting it back in your mouth.

Mikey gulped as he watched you suck on the popsicle, your eyes drooping and another hum of approval sounding from your mouth. Come on bro, you can do this. Everything is fine, everything is fine, he thought to himself. He took a moment to try the popsicle, too, and couldn't help but agree with you. "Yeah, Leo and Raph are definitely missing out. Don't worry, angelcakes, luckily I'm not as much of a Debbie freaking downer as they are."

You couldn't help but laugh at his comment, the popsicle still in your mouth. You pulled it out with a pop, but with the hot weather, some of the orange soda had already begun to melt.

Mikey watched the moment pass as if it happened in slow motion: the orange liquid trailed off your bottom lip and down your chin before dripping onto your chest, running down the exposed, supple skin and meeting the white fabric of your tank top.

Oh, boy. Everything is not fine.

The poor turtle froze as his mind launched down the gutter. He couldn't help his staring at you, drinking in the vision that you had so accidentally just granted him. He couldn't help the want that spread like fire within his chest. He was definitely experiencing greed, and it was definitely the unquenchable kind.

While Mikey was lost in his thoughts, you looked down at your spill. "Ugh, I just washed this top!" You exclaimed, rubbing your chin and examining the bright orange stain for a moment before shrugging. "Oh, well. I guess the popsicles really will help us cool off!"

You turned to your friend, who had gone slightly pale and was standing up from his spot on the floor, his popsicle sticking halfway out of his mouth. "Mikey, are you okay? You don't look so good. Is the heat getting to you?" You asked him from the couch, sitting up straighter with concern.

"Ummmmm, yea-- I mean.. no! Actually, I just remembered, uhhhh... there's.. something I'm supposed to talk to Master Splinter about. I'll be right back!"

[ribbonsaikeaux]

You Will Burn With Me

In the middle of a remote forest, far as possible from civilization, there stands a majestic glass cottage. A sight to behold, the eaves are maticulously scultped from from panes of two inch thick glass. The entire house has intricate wards etched in silver across every sheet, allowing the area surrounding it to be lit in a dazzling array of patterns as the sun travels through the sky.

Inside, every piece of furniture is also made of glass. Items, seemingly, magically converted into glass from some other material. The detail of each surface calls back to a once wooden make, it must have taken much time and care to transform.

A beautiful garden surrounds the house; filled with daisies and tulips and snapdragons, and a wide varied of herbs grow in their own central planter. Somehow, ivy has snaked its way over all but the north facing wall and over the roof; creating shade for the inhabitants of the house.

Only two beings lived in this monument of glass. Simply a witch and her doll. Now, one might think the witch vain for having put so much effort and magical power into her house, however it a decision made of necessity. See, her doll was small. It was loving, and oh so adorable, but, it was made of matches. It couldnt speak, it couldnt perform any tasks due to its six inch stature, and it had a most dificult time walking. The witch so loved her doll, though, and it loved her. All that either desired was the others' love and companionship. So, the witch constructed a safe haven for her doll. No rough surfaces meant that the poor thing couldn't accidently ignite, thus preventing the destruction of itself, the witch, and the home.

On this parricular day, the witch and her doll had travelled to the nearest town to run some errands. She usually likes to take as little time as possible so as not to draw any attention to herself, however, today she got distracted by some lovely new dresses. She had to talk herself out of the purchase, though, because it was a needless expense at the moment.

Watching from across the street, a hooded figure waited. Surprising, given his lack of patience, but he couldn't afford to cause a scene. He'd been hunting this particular witch for a long time, and she had remained aggrevatingly elusive. Now finally he has a chance to track her to her lair.

Sticking to whatever shadows he can, the witch hunter follows her. She should be able to sense him, but he wears an amethyst amulet that prevents magic from detecting him. He had thought of everything, or at least he'd like to think so.

The witch and the doll arrive at their house, oblivious to the eyes observing them from the tree line. She smiles, gently pulling the doll from her pocket and setting it on a glass counter.

"There we go darling~ you're free!" She says with a giggle, gently kissing its head.

The doll teeters a moment, the bundle of matches it has for arms flailing in an attempt to keep itself balanced.

"Ope! Be careful sweetie~* the witch smiles and gently places a hand behind it, steadying it.

The doll bounces happily from side to side, nuzzling her hand in appreciation.

The pair spend the afternoon together. While the witch studied, the doll sat in her lap, looking over the pages along with her. It couldnt quite comprehend the words, but its witchs' gentle pets kept it content.

The sun burned through its hours, finally coming to rest beyond the horizon as the moon rose to take its place. The pale lunar glow of the full moon made the etched wards glisten in raindow light.

The hunter grinned, gripping a talisman and whispering a counter ward. All at once, the light faded from the wards.

The witch bolted from her seat, her eyes immediately fixed on the hunter, even through the darkness. She glared, hands moving, preparing to cast a spell. Unfortunately, she wasn't fast enough. With a flick of his wrist, and a quick trigger pull, the hunter fired a shot, catching the witch in the gut. The north facing wall shattered, raining shards of glass. With that wall crumbling, the cascade of cracking glass could no longer hold itself together. A deluge of sharp shards fell onto the witch and her doll, impaling her where she stood, leaving them both buried in a sea of glass.

The doll, frantic, nudged at her, headbutted her, pushed her with all its might. She didnt move. It hung its head, distraught and terrified. Until it heard the approaching foot steps.

The hunter took great care as he waded through the lake of glass. He approached slowly, catiously. One must always confirm their kill after all. As he inched closer, the doll grew enraged.

Is this the monster that killed its Mistress? Why? No. Wrong! Wrong! No! He cannot! He cannot live while its beloved lay dead! Wont allow wont allow wont allow!

The doll climbed from under the pile of glass and jumped onto the hunters rough leather boots. He looked down, confused, but before hw could react, the doll rubbed against the leather, igniting itself in a blazing inferno. Fueled by its rage, the flames burned hotter and hotter. The hunter screamed as he was engulfed in flames, throwing his arms out, running and tripping over the glass. As he fell the shards cut deep into his cooking muscles.

The dolls rage fueled flames rose into the sky, bright enough to make night day. A vortex of flames swirled and lashed out at everything it could touch.

The hunter turned to ash, mixing with the melting glass. The fire condensed, growing hotter and hotter until it exploded in all directions, instantly atomizing the surrounding trees and immolating the garden.

The night grew quiet, the roars of the flames dying. The only sound remaining was the crackling of small, smoldering fires which slowly died. In the light of the full moon, a glass figure glistens. In the center of the houses' foundation now stood a mirrored statue of the dolls beloved witch. Its last gift to her for all the love they shared.

[climbthemountain2020]

Flame of Autumn - Chapter 16

Part 17/26 | Ao3

Eris

It had been a week since the worst and best day of their lives thus far, and Eris was fighting every single base urge the mating bond thrust upon him each time he saw his mate and knew she was pregnant with their child. He’d barely let her leave the room since, both because of the sudden protective streak he was experiencing, but also because it had triggered something feral in him that required him to pull her naked body back into their bed every time she tried to depart it. She would giggle and they’d resume right where they left off, touching and laughing and exploring each other again. It was like they were experiencing the frenzy of the bond all over again, but Eris wasn’t complaining. 

He knew this couldn’t last–knew something would disturb this fragile, glorious peace–but gods, he wanted it to.  

That morning, a letter had arrived in their rooms requesting his presence in the throne room at sunrise, and he was regretting his duties every second he spent not in bed with Tilly. She was still sleeping, bordered by dogs on each side, as he kissed her gently and left their rooms. He knew she’d been tired lately, and he wasn’t going to wake her for no reason. He left a note with her breakfast, remembering fondly the first time he’d done so, and tried to make this one a bit sweeter. 

Good morning, beautiful creature 

You simply looked too peaceful to wake, and I hope you’re having wonderful dreams–of me, obviously. I brewed your favorite tea, set to stay heated, as well as procuring more chocolate tarts. I’ll be back in an hour or so. 

All my love, 

E

He tucked it under the pillow when he set her tray on the night table, taking another look at her and wondering how he’d possibly lucked into this. Beron aside, he didn’t know how anyone could have received such fortune in life. Perhaps the universe was finally allowing him a reprieve in exchange for the previous five centuries of torture. 

He walked to the throne room, cracking his neck as he went and preparing mentally for whatever Beron had in mind. He tried to smother the happiness he felt so it wouldn’t show on his face, letting that steel mask slide into place as it always did. He walked in with purpose, sketched a bow, and rose. 

“How may I be of service, father?”

“I need you in Dawn Court to finish brokering the deal for the new adaptive armor we commissioned.” Eris was aware of this deal. Thesan had agreed, after much negotiation, to create armor for the soldiers of Autumn. It had certain specifications in mind, made them stronger, heat resistant, and less likely to melt in the case of an onslaught of fire magic. It wasn’t out of the ordinary, but Eris hadn’t done much with it at this point. It wasn’t a particularly difficult trip, though. They might even be able to stop by Day Court and talk to Helion before returning home. 

“Yes, father. When will we be leaving?” 

“Tomorrow morning. You will need to go alone, and be subtle there. I don’t want to risk anyone seeing you and thinking we’re brokering some type of alliance. That’s the last thing we need.” Eris was immediately uncomfortable with Tilly being left behind, his instincts roaring within him to stay nearby and protect her, protect their baby.

“Understood, father.” 

“I will be off to the mortal lands for meetings with the human queens.” This information did shock Eris, but he kept his expression schooled. 

“The human queens? I did not realize we were still in contact after the mishap with Brialyn.” 

“Yes, I am building contacts with them. More allies can never hurt, especially not when they have a tense relationship with the Night Court.” Beron leered in a way that sent a chill through Eris. At least Beron would be far from Tilly in his absence. “Do not disappoint me, Eris. This is a very simple deal, and I need it to go through without any issues.” Eris simply bowed. 

“Yes, father.” 

On his way back to their rooms to pack, he thought about how he might approach the meeting with Helion. He could send a parchment from Day that was unlikely to be intercepted begging for an audience, then go straight there after Day to speak with him. He could see if Helion would be willing to at least help break the charm preventing Beron from being poisoned so that they could try again. Truly, he knew Helion wouldn’t do anything to compromise Alanna’s sons, as much as he hated Beron. He knew he’d be safe in Day, even if he wasn’t well-liked. He could explain the situation to Helion, and perhaps he would warm more if he knew the details. As a last resort, he could even exchange his knowledge of Lucien. Eris didn’t like it for anyone’s sake, least of all his mother’s, and he hoped it wouldn’t come to that. 

Tilly had just risen when Eris returned. She was sitting there on the still-ruffled bed, eating her pastries. She smiled at him as he came inside, and Eris thought he’d never seen anything quite so beautiful. Her red hair was tousled, waving lazily in the low light, and she was wearing a silk dressing gown that slipped deliciously off one freckled shoulder. 

“Got your note!” She held it up with a grin. “Thank you for the tea and tarts. I might live off tea and tarts if you let me.” He laughed as he came and sat on the side of the bed, giving her a kiss and tasting the chai and chocolate on her lips. 

“I’m surprised the dogs aren’t here begging.” He’d practically had to pry Hestia away from Tilly this past week. She and Cinder had become incredibly protective, going nearly everywhere she went and growling at anyone else who got too close. 

“I gave them their breakfast a bit ago and I may have given them some sausages to get a little reprieve.” Her smile turned guilty as she said it, but her eyes were filled with mischief. He reached up, letting his hand graze her jaw lightly. 

“I have to go away for a few days.” Her face dropped at the news, worry creasing her brow. 

“Why? I can’t come?” He knew she would worry–he understood. 

“It’s just a few days in Dawn. I need to finish a deal for Beron, who will, blessedly, also be gone from the Forest House.” Tilly breathed a deep sigh of relief. 

“Well, that’s not so terrible. Despite missing you while you’re gone.” She smiled, but it didn’t quite meet her eyes. 

“I’ll be missing you every moment I am away. Perhaps you and my mother can spend some time together. I know she blooms when he’s gone, and it’ll keep you company, too.” She smiled and nodded. 

“I’d like that.” 

“And you’re good to keep the glamours up while I’m away?”

“Yes, I can do it. Not like I’d be using any other magic without you here.” She laughed a little, and he relented, kissing her again. A few quick pecks turned slower, more sensual. He could never get enough of her, and he knew that no measure of time would satisfy him. He trailed the kisses down her chest, sending all the love and affection that burned through the pathways of his heart down the bond and into her as she inhaled deeply. 

He pressed a kiss to the spot beneath her navel as she sighed in contentment. He inhaled, loving the mix of flames and oranges that washed over him. It was going to be the longest few days of his life. 

“Are you absolutely sure you’ll be alright while I’m gone? Perhaps I can figure out a way–”

“Eris, it’s fine. I have spent so much of my life by myself. I can manage a few days.” He pouted, putting on a dramatic show for her as she laughed. 

“I am hoping to get a letter to Helion. Perhaps he might be able to help.” Her expression sobered as she sat back up, Eris rising with her to press a kiss to her bare shoulder. 

“Let’s hope he will.” 

Tilly

Tilly rolled stiffly across the bed, bumping the sleeping dogs and earning grumbles as she did. 

“Oh, hush. I can’t help it that I can’t sleep. You’re the ones choosing to be here, anyway.” Eris had been gone for a day now, and she missed him sorely, but it was so much worse at night. She hated sleeping away from him–had grown so used to his warm body curved around hers that she couldn’t sleep without him here. Even with three dogs on the bed, she felt cold and lonely. She rolled again, tugging the bond lovingly and sending sweet thoughts through that mighty ribbon to him. It took barely a moment before she felt it echoing back, his amusement–likely at her still being awake–dancing around with love and devotion. 

At this distance, the bond was so incredibly faint–delayed, even–but she was glad for it only to know he was safe and to have that small bit of comfort. She and Alanna had done tea in the garden that afternoon which had been a nice reprieve, especially with the lack of Beron’s overbearing guard lingering over them like a dark cloud. Tilly loved how much lighter the Lady of Autumn was when she wasn’t being chained down by Beron’s presence, but it made it so much more painful to see her locked back down upon his return. 

They’d discussed flowers and the weather, and Alanna had tentatively mentioned the upcoming solstice, but nothing about the ticking clock hanging over their heads. A part of her wondered if Alanna didn’t sense it, didn’t already know about the grandchild cradled within Tilly’s womb. They would have told her, but they didn’t want to be responsible for giving her a single additional piece of information that Beron could torture out of her or punish her for keeping from him. They’d have to figure out soon how long they planned to hide this before they absolutely couldn’t anymore. She hoped Eris’ meeting with Helion would produce some good leads and keep them from worrying about it altogether. 

Another roll and a frustrated sigh. She was probably only about two months along at most, and the uncomfortable nights would only become more commonplace from here. At least with Eris around, he could provide his warm hands pressed against her back for some relief. She smiled at the thought. Eris was going to be such a wonderful father, and as terrible as the circumstances were, she couldn’t help but feel genuinely excited about the prospect of seeing him in the role. She could imagine him rubbing circles into her back, holding her hands as she brought their baby into the world. She could picture Eris so vividly holding him or her against his chest, tiny tufts of bright red baby curls perfectly puffing up from the blanket. The visual brought tears to her eyes, as most things seemed to these days. 

A frantic pounding on the doors broke through the darkness. 

“Matilda! Matilda, help!” 

Alanna. 

The dogs were barking and snarling, and Tilly shot out of bed, grabbing her dressing gown to wrap tightly around her as she ran to the door. The pounding was growing louder and more hectic. 

“Matilda, please!” She threw up her glamours and waved down the wards in the same breath, swinging the door open in a panic. 

“Alanna, what’s–” 

But it wasn’t Alanna she found on the other side. 

She was greeted with the twisted smile of Aradnus, holding a handkerchief covered in a bright blue powder. The voice had been a trick of magic, and in the seconds it took her to put it all together and try to slam the door on him, he’d gotten his entire arm around her throat and pressed the cloth to her nose and mouth. She could think of nothing as her vision began to blur, her senses dulling rapidly. She struggled wildly against him, the dogs snarling and snapping behind her as he kicked the door closed on them, dragging her out into the hall. 

As the darkness closed in, she tried to reach out through the bond to warn Eris, but the golden thread of flame was nowhere to be found. 

Taglist (lomls): @cauldronblssd@queercontrarian@byyalady@thelovelymadone@clockwork-ashes@lovingkelj @lilah-asteria

[hotreadingwitch]

MADE TO LIE - the epilogue

“UNCLE STEVE!” 3-year-old Rebecca practically screeched as her favourite uncle lifted her up into a tight, spinning hug. 

The little girl beamed as she was then smothered in kisses by her two aunts Natasha and Wanda. Sam hugged her too, patting her affectionately on her wavy mass of brunette hair that she got from her dad. 

“Come in, come in,” Bucky gestured for them to move to the living room where the large, decorated tree was glistening with festive light. 

“Don’t forget about the little one” Y/n joked from the couch at the crew of her friends, her family, that had just arrived for the morning’s celebrations. 

The four came over immediately all cooing at the newborn who was wrapped in a light pink blanket. Wanda poked at the sweet thing’s cheek, giggling as it jiggled, bouncing from the slight pressure. 

“Hi Stevie,” Steve said softly, his eyes glistening as he took the small baby from Y/n, rocking her in his arms. Y/n sighed with relief, her heart full as she took in the warm scene taking place before her. Bucky planted a distracted kiss on her cheek before hugging Sam, Natasha, and Wanda in greeting, wishing them all happy holidays as he did. 

Over the last six years of being together, Y/n had discovered that Bucky was rarely as happy as he was during the annual holiday. Some people hated it, overly concerned with finding the perfect presents or completely stressed about one thing or another. She figured it was such a memorable day for him because he had spent so many of them as a child with Steve and his family. Though Y/n didn’t have as many sweet memories of the day from her childhood with her father and his group of criminals, the day was forever changed for her as, exactly four years ago, Bucky had proposed to her at Tony’s holiday party. Their friends had cheered for them and their future as they kissed under the mistletoe, never wanting to break apart. 

This Christmas, like each one they’d had together thus far, was bound to be a special one. It was little Stevie Jr’s first Christmas and Rebecca's third but it was also the first time Bucky and Y/n were hosting the special day at their house with their small group of chosen family. The old Brooklyn apartment resisted the December cold, the lit fireplace thankfully keeping them all toasty and warm as they settled in for the merry day. The smell of fresh gingerbread instantly brought Y/n back from the reel of memories that were playing in her head. 

“Treats anyone?” Beatka cheered as she bustled into the living room, bearing cookies. 

Sam and Wanda practically dived for the warm baked goods making the rest laugh at their antics. Y/n grabbed one as well, splitting it in half and helping Rebecca into her high chair to eat it. 

“Thank you Mama” the toddler expressed her gratitude. 

Y/n caressed her hair, helplessly affectionate when it came to the little girl only to feel Bucky’s hand on her back, rubbing gentle circles, releasing all her tension. She gazed up at him, helplessly affectionate when it came to him too. The kiss she placed on his lips was chaste and yet Rebecca's small "ew” was loud, making them break apart just to laugh, blush tinting their cheeks. 

~ Later that night ~

Y/n snuggled closer to the mound of warmth beneath her as she woke from a short but deep sleep, her holiday dress slightly crumpled. A smooth, jazzy melody flitted through her consciousness as she yawned. Propping herself up onto her elbow she looked over to see a record spinning on the old player next to Bucky’s impressive vinyl collection. 

The stars are aglow. And tonight how their light sets me dreaming. My love, do you know? That your eyes are like stars brightly beaming?

“I think I maybe had too much of that spiked egg nog doll” Bucky’s low rumbling voice reverberated in her ears, breaking her away from her sleepy trance. 

She laughed through the brain fog that came from sleep, tilting her head upward to capture his lips in a small kiss, one that quickly deepened into something more. 

“Can I ask you something?” Y/n questioned when they finally broke apart. 

“You know you can” was Bucky’s easy reply. 

“Will you dance with me?”

A low, rumbling laugh sounded in his chest as he pulled her up to stand before him, taking her hands and placing them behind his neck. It was moments like this where Y/n felt most connected to Bucky, both his present and his past. They stood swaying to the music, allowing the lyrics and the sweet melody to caress them as their hands did the same, playing over each other’s skin.

I bring you and sing you a moonlight serenade. Let us stray, till break of day in love’s valley of dreams.

“You’re good at this” she flushed beneath his warm gaze. “Do you ever miss it?” 

“Miss what?” 

“The 40s” 

“I miss who I was but even then, not fully because I like who I’ve become…” he paused, taking a breath as if pondering the right thing to say, “And I miss the dancing”

His lighter tone encouraged Y/n to smile and ask, “Show me?”

He swayed her forward and back, side to side, even dipping her at one point, balancing her weight easily. His callused palms ran across her arms, making her shiver as his hips and feet did the majority of the work for both of them. But what she noticed the most was his expression. It was the softest she’d ever seen him look, exposed by the gentle moonlight streaming through the tall window and the glow of the Christmas tree behind them. 

“I love that song” Y/n whispered as the melody reached its natural conclusion. 

And I sing you a song in the moonlight, a love song, my darling. A moonlight serenade…

She smiled to herself before humming it from the beginning, allowing them to continue to dance, Bucky swinging her gently along. He matched her voice, his baritone one melding together with her higher tone. It truly was a serenade, a moment of vulnerability for them both as they danced beneath the celestial light that shone brightly down on all of Brooklyn. 

“I love you” she whispered into his chest like a secret. 

He tilted her chin up to look at him, his gaze fond and real, “I love you too doll” 

Bucky Barnes was not a man who opened up easily, so Y/n’s responding kiss was her way of saying she was honoured. She was honoured that in the end, he’d trusted her, that he’d cared for her, that he had chosen love—their love— above self-destruction. This was not to say that Y/n hadn’t made the same hard choice. She too had to overcome her most negative thoughts, her learned behaviours, and her traumas to be with him. Some days they struggled but mostly they lived in love, appreciating the life that they’d built. She beamed at the thought that in their shared pain they both had found something worth fighting for. 

requested account tags: cjand10 identity2212 bucky-jbb-sunshine unaxv hnnhbananananana @differenttyphoonwerewolf

[toomuchracket]

okayyyy hear me out. d word matty sick fic either before or in the early days of them getting together officially. matty spotting u at work Clearly unwell and having to physically drag you out, insisting all the while ur fine despite yacking in the work toilet like 5 minutes prior. confiscating your laptop so you cant try go answer emails. dodging ur attempts at work chat for the next couple days as ur getting better

oh yes ok so you're like right on the cusp of dating matty - you've hung out a couple of times and it's been sweet but platonic and quite frankly you're both desperate to see each other more often and more seriously. which makes it all the more awkward when you take ill at work and he clocks it - he rocks up like 2 hours after you start to find you sitting at your desk, skin greying a little bit, wearing your cardigan and denim jacket indoors yet still shivering, despite it being literally early june. and he's immediately side-eyeing like "you alright, sweetheart?", to which you're like "mhmm just chilly", and matty's like "hmm ok"; it's a tuesday and it's really quiet in the office, so he sets up his laptop at another desk nearby and keeps an eye on you while he responds to emails and whatnot, unconvinced that you're actually alright. and he's right to think that and be concerned - you're visibly shaky walking over to file something, and then at one point without warning you clap your hand over your mouth and run to the bathroom. when you come back, looking horrid, matty's like "you're not alright, darlin', i think you should just go home", and you're shaking your head like "nope it's fine i'm fine i'll stay. i think i just ate something weird a couple of days ago. no big deal", but literally three seconds later a wave of nausea hits you so hard that you have to grab the bin from under your desk in case you throw up again; you don't, but it's enough for matty to put his foot down and say "nope, i'm giving you a lift home right now". and you're like "no really it's fine. if i have to go i'll just get the tube" and matty's aghast like "you're going to get the tube when you feel like shit? do you want to fucking die? come on, babe". he's got a point - the thought of puking on the tube is a horrible one - but you're still like "i just don't want to inconvenience you, matty. and also, like, what if i yosh in your car? that would be awful", and matty says "you're never an inconvenience to me, sweetheart, really. just want to make sure you're ok". you swear his eyes soften when he says that, and your heart flutters as the two of you smile sweetly at each other - the moment ends quickly, though, as you double over with a stomach cramp and matty's like "actually, maybe bring that bin with you to the car, just in case", before he helps you gather up your shit and ushers you out to his car. you tell him your address (you're quite excited and a bit relieved to hear him say "oh, that's not too far from me! this is the way i'd drive home anyway, babe. and we're on the same train line"), and thus begins the journey; it takes slightly longer than expected because of roadworks and traffic, which matty repeatedly apologises for, but you're both secretly grateful for the extra time spent together, listening to one of matty's insane playlists and chatting, so much so that you actually feel sad when he turns onto your street.

he parks outside your house and carries your bag to the door for you sweetly; less sweetly, though, he does make you forfeit your laptop "so you can't sneak on and work while you're meant to be getting better. don't you try to argue, sweetheart, i know what you're like". you blush at that, which makes matty giggle - after that, he hugs you and kisses your head, running back to his car before you can even react to the affection and promising to check in with you later. and he does; he calls you after dinner that night to see how you're feeling, and you can hear him rolling his eyes when you say "good. haven't eaten, but i've stopped puking, at least. should be fine to come to work tomorrow". matty's like "oh my god please just focus on feeling better, babe, work can wait. in fact, i'm putting a moratorium on work chat. tell me what you thought of my playlist in the car instead", which makes you laugh, and the conversation is just unprofessional after that. he even pops round with flowers on his way home from work the next day - you berate him for going out of his way just to see you, but you're very touched that he would (and lowkey mortified that this is how he's seeing the flat for the first time, you being an invalid). when you tell matty as much (not the bit about the flat), he blushes and shrugs like "like i said, sweetheart, you're on my route home. and i like seeing you, and talking to you" - he takes a nervous drink of his tea and then says "maybe we should start commuting to work together, once you're feeling better. makes sense, if we live near each other. and i know my mornings would be better if you were the first person i saw after i woke up". you smile back just as shyly like "i'd like that. get you on the half 8 train tomorrow?", and matty's like "it's a date" <3

[always-a-joyful-note]

So because I want to record my progression of where I am in the story, I'm posting my impressions of the units so far. (Disclaimer: I haven't read many of the stories, and about half the knowledge I have is from osmosis and spoilers. The other half is actually reading wiki entries and the actual stories. So if these takes are inaccurate, that is probably the point XD)

Without further ado....

fine - unit of 2 rich kids who are sort of trying to be slightly less evil but kind of still are evil, one (1) theatre kid who is just there for the ride and his crush, and a butler with the face of an angel and the threatening aura of a ezekiel-accurate angel in disguise. Also another impression I had of it was one chronically ill idol stan with three of his idol crushes. But they're solid, if slightly flowery; not exactly my style but their songs are good.

Trickstar - literally my sons. Traumatised idiots who choose to continue to see the bright side with a slice of anarchy. They're all so dumb. Their leader looks straight laced but is more insane than his co-leader who is perpetually wearing the ^u^ expression (except when trauma slapped). The other two members are a camera-phobic gamer boy who is also a model and a guy who exudes reliability and sanity but is also kind of an insane workaholic with inferiority issues. I'm adopting them all and their songs are like…both generic but SO sincere you can't hate it.

Ryuseitai - Me when first meeting them: Awww! A power ranger themed unit! So cute! Me, after hearing stuff about the two senior members' lore and how they recruited their youngsters: (clutching my heart, trying not to sob/lose my mind) Aww! A power ranger themed unit! S-so cute! I would die for literally all of them…WHY. Such silly happy sincere tunes sung by such silly, devastating characters??? Found family, to me

Alkaloid - everyone here believes they are holding everyone else back with their psychological problems (Mayoi), disability problems (Tatsumi), ability problems (Aira), or culture shock problems (Hiiro). And yet they're the unit whose songs have mostly all been ones I absolutely loved. Which means the assembly machine factory idols Eichi's got going on are working and idk how I feel about that

Eden - A bunch of guys with severe family issues who probably have never read the bible (well, maybe Nagisa has). So, like, tw inaccurate depictions of the bible? Anyway, deranged quartet of a softie obsessed with cool rocks but really he has sort of a god complex, a guy with a perpetual :D who is as smart as he thinks he is but is also kind of oblivious to all of his other skills and flaws (and thus is a combo of terrifying snake and kind of someone you're sort of humouring because he's funny), a spoiled princess who might have a bit of a savior complex, and a dude who kinda just got swept along for the ride but is actually really fond of them. And it shows in their music.

Valkyrie - Just….theatre kids, who put the drama in dramatic and the intense in intensity (that's definitely not how the expression is used). They also have a very strange thing going on even though they're trying to be healthier, but I'm too afraid to ask. Unfortunately, though, they have some killer compositions and so many references to Classics and Things, not to mention their songs are genuinely good for those who want that quick theatrical vibe

2wink - Adorable twins that I was lured into thinking were the normal mischief twin duo trope but what in the actual ensemble were the writers DOING? They deserve at least half the cw/tw tags. Also, one of them is kinda like Trickstar (just wants to make things brighter) while the other one has schemes and will not hesitate to destroy you while giggling, yes. All that angst but they have such cheery tunes. Like, boys please….

Crazy:B - I mean, with a name like that….listen. You think it's the guy with the metabolism-related medical condition who has a dad implied to be accused of cannibalism and his freeloader who is a literal prince but also constantly broke that would be the most insane. But, no, we also have a fifteen year old assassin who has definitely killed and a guy who is literally both committing identity theft AND helping in witness protection. But, yes, their songs are fun, as is their dynamic. Also…Amagi brothers. Ough.

Undead - This is just…four urban fantasy love interests thrown into a unit. I'm not exactly sure what urban fantasy race Adonis and Kaoru are (though sometimes I'm inclined to think adonis is the protagonist who just kinda got swept along for the ride except he does have the vibe sometimes (aka casually kidnapping HiMERU)) but a vampire and werewolf are very obviously there. Really do love their rock and roll style, like come on (though I sometimes do think it'd be cool if they let Rei's love for jazz into their songs)

Ra*bits - Look. I love them. It really is just a single dad with one of the most messed up backstories doing his best. But like, also, leave them alone please?? The writers really just made them the damsel in distress character that makes Subaru go "oh, I have to take this revolution stuff seriously" and that's not even mentioning all the other stuff they seem to go through??? Like they do not belong in whatever genre Enstars is going for but they make it work but….let them rest. Songs not my style but they fit their vibe of "smile and spread joy" which works cause I do feel joy. Like Trickstar without the revolutionary goals.

Akatsuki - TBH, I'm still kind of wondering why these three (a warrior, a mangaka, and a tailor who used to be a delinquent) are still idols. I mean, they do have talent and traditional aesthetic is fire, and they're definitely sort of found family, but why still idols guys? That said, again, songs not my style but they definitely capture their aesthetic and vibe and that's always cool to me. Also, one of the members was raised in a Buddhist temple and helped with funerals, and I do not know enough about Buddhism enough to say if they portray a Buddhist accurately but given how they portray everyone else's quirks, it probably still has a giant dose of deranged on it.

Knights - HAHAHAHAHA. They're all insane. But they have talent and earned their place in the big three. But that does not make them less insane. That's all because I will go a bit barmy if I think about them too much. Silly, insane knights who enjoy hobbies like kidnapping (affectionate) and dancing/singing (will kill you in a duel)

Switch - Look….at heart, I can't hate these fantasy game isekai themed group. I enjoy their music because I do like the electropop remix/edm thing they have going on. And it DOES kill me that the only two 3-people units (Akatsuki and Switch) both have the dynamic of "a couple of parents and their beloved and most treasured cinnamon roll of a chaotic son." But like Valkyrie, I don't know what's going on with the senior members and am too afraid to ask, especially since they seem fine with it while their son with synesthesia cheers them on.

MaM - He is literally a cowboy. I - is there a thing with Japan and cowboys? And did someone at the writer's table see that samurai, Victorian thief, cowboys, and pirates post? Because somehow, the only member of this unit is all of them. A very stark contrast against his weirdly cheerleader/mom friend songs. I know he has mommy issues (mafia thing, I think) but.....son, are you okay?

Double Face - Yeah, okay, I love them. They might be the murder unit and I still have no clue to their formation but I love it. Put the Victorian cowboy thief samurai pirate and the child assassin together and you get secret agent type music that sounds like it could be in an old spy flick? How can you not love it?

[writingpencil]

Enthralling

���Guilty.”

Despite everything, Lenora held her head high in front of the vampiric Court. The elder vampires, aged like fine wine, stared at Lenora and her daring defiance, disgusted by her. Surrounding the courtroom, the twelve vampiric families gathered around, whispering, except for Lenora’s own family. Like the Elders, they were silent.

Deciding to break the gaze, Lenora stared at her family. In her mother, tears were refusing to fall, too stubborn to do so. In her father, anger and resentment, but also pity. Her sisters, wicked enchantresses they were, were moments from cackling like the vile witches they embodied. Any uncles, aunts, and cousins looking to defend her, if such a thing was taken into consideration, were far too low in Lenora’s family to have a say in the Court. The bragging right Lenora once indulged in became a hindrance.

“Lenora Von Nectarine.” Lenora turned back to the Elders, crossing her arms. She knew the elder personally, a family friend whom her father exchanged thralls with numerous amount of times, and even he seemed disappointed. With his gray beard, human wrinkles, and overall older appearance, Lenora had called him Grandpa in her childhood. Now, all he was to her was Elder Ardelean. “For your crimes against the Court and the very nature of the vampire families that we have sworn to, you shall be banished from all the territories and stripped of all your ranking as a Von Nectarine. Shall you die, your ashes will not be allowed to participate in the funeral rite established by your family.”

“And my child?” Lenora held her belly. She wasn’t showing yet but the beating heart yet to form was hard to miss. 

“While your crimes are not theirs,” Elder Ardelean said, “They exist only because of your mistakes. They, too, shall suffer the same punishment as you.”

“Fine,” Lenora was relieved, although she didn’t show it. 

The rest of the night was a burdening blur. The individuals who avoided her were a crowd of glowing eyes, their whispers a choir of a reputation being dragged through the mud, and the awaiting judgement of her family became a mindless argument behind solid doors. Lenora merely brushed through her hair as her father and mother raged through her bedroom,  her sisters giggling in the hallway. All through the meticulous packing and tedious planning, all Lenora heard was the garbling of anger. 

Maybe it was Lenora’s pride, or understanding she wouldn’t be there to see the downfall, but she found herself feeling apathetic. There was no need for her to care. Not anymore. Her methods, her theories, and her entire worldview were a challenge and, thus, punished. Her poor family, grief-stricken by a banished daughter.

The little girl or boy growing in her womb was their grandchild. Lenora would make sure they meet her or him. She may not have thought of a way yet, but she would.

“Be thankful Auntie is allowing you to live in her estate,” Her father scoffed, keeping his eyes on the road. “If it were up to me, you’d be thrown to the wolves.”

Her mother powdered her face, staring at herself in the silver-less mirror. “Now, now, darling, she’s a mature young lady. I’m sure she’ll handle herself among the humans. Icky, dirty parasites that infect the world, spreading diseases and eating everything they can get their hands on. Undignified-”

Lenora sighed softly. She dressed softly for the excursion–with a dark red dress and sunhat, black gloves that reached her shoulders, and boots that went over her knees–compared to the rest of her family who stuck with their Victorian gothic attire. In the night, Lenora was sure she would blend in, but once the sun hit the horizon, she would stick out like a sore thumb.

Cheering her up though was her auntie’s estate. Auntie Elenorea spent much of her fortune on herself, entire mansions to occupy her days, and buying her way to luxury In a simple town called Summerfall, Auntie Elenorea composed the smallest of her houses; a two-story home with an attic on top, designed to be eerie and gothic, with gargoyles guardians on the gates and top the roofing. The garden was covered in nightshade with a few trees rotting in the back. All protected by an iron gate with sharpened features designed to slice. 

[danger-xylophones]

The King's Herald Prologue (Elrond x reader)

warning: she/her, reader referred to as princess, shitty babysitter, protective gil gadad, no elrond yet - this is just setting up dynamics

Summary: As heir to the Noldorian throne, it's about time you learn how to be a proper diplomat. It just so happens that your father's new herald is more than happy to help you settle back into life in Lindon.

Relationships: Gil-Galad + daughter! reader, Cirdan + reader, Elrond x reader

Note: this is a mix of the ROP canon and Tolkien canon

masterlist | elves

"Atar!"

The piercing cry of the young elleth thoroughly startled the High-King, making him drop the letter he'd been completely absorbed by. Gil-Galad looked up just in time to catch sight of his daughter charging towards the head of the table where he was sat. Her little legs a blur as she tried to swiftly cover the distance between him and the entryway.

Realizing her intentions, he scooted his chair back to create a safe landing place for the young girl as she leapt at him. He caught her fast and pulled her into his chest before the small child could go flying face first onto the floor. "Woah, anel!" He exclaimed while the child erupted into a flurry of giggles as she wrapped her arms around his neck in a tight hug. "Where are your caretakers?"

"We're playing hide and seek!" She cheered right into his ear. Gil-Galad felt his eye twitch.

"I see," he said, gently pushing his daughter back but keeping his hold on her lest she fall off his lap onto the floor, "And are they aware they're playing?"

At that, her face fell into a look that told Gil-Galad he'd caught her. The High King had to fight the urge to roll his eyes. He'd avoided accidentally teaching her that expression of annoyance thus far - he loathed the day she finally found its power. "Anel," he admonished, "you know better than to run off on them." Her face fell further, taking her head with it. "They're probably worried sick."

"I just wanted to see you." She muttered, retracting her arms from his neck.

Gil-Galad sighed already caving at the sight of her saddened face, though frustrated with his daughter he couldn't bear to see her upset. "Merca alma," he brought a hand to her tiny chin, "lift your head." With gentle prompting, she did but she would not meet his eye. Gil-Galad's heart clenched when he realized it was because she was trying to hide the tears that were starting to gather. "I am not angry with you, anel nin." She tentatively looked at him. "But you must know that this behavior is unbecoming."

"I know..." she sighed, looking away again. "I just...I was lonely, atar. The caretakers never want to talk to me and I never get to see you anymore."

Gil-Galad's face fell. It was true that he hadn't had any time to spare his adopted daughter ever since he became High-King of the Noldor and now he could see lurking in the depths of her eyes that the separation was taking its toll on her. Casting his gaze to the letter detailing the latest struggles of Beleriand, he made a decision. While he couldn't leave the matter be, there was a way to also enjoy some quality time with the girl. "Anel nin, dry the tears in your eyes. I have a task for both of us."

Her head tilted to the side as her undefined brow furrowed. "For both of us?" She echoed.

Gil-Galad nodded. "I have also missed our time together, anel nin. But, until the darkness is gone from this land we will continue to be separated." She frowned but he pressed on. "So, that leaves us with only one option."

"Banish the darkness?" The elfling hazard, voice sounding shaky.

Gil-Galad nodded and lifted the girl off his lap to set her back on the ground before rising himself and snatching the letter off the the table. "Precisely, and we'll start doing that together. Come along." He started walking, trusting that the little girl would find a way to keep up with his long strides. "You are going to help me draft an address, merca alma."

"An address?" Her bell like voice piped from behind him. "What's that?"

"A letter." He amended. "You'll send countless in your lifetime." Gil-Galad turned down the hallway that led to his study.

"Oh." His daughter hummed in thought. "Who are we-?"

"Aranel! There you are!" A scolding feminine voice suddenly boomed down the hallway, making both elves pause - the younger of the two taking shelter behind her father's midnight blue cloak. Gil-Galad raised his gaze from the girl that clung to his leg and to her caretaker - Almarian, if he remembered her name right - who was approaching with a thunderous expression. Only to falter when she realized he was there. "Oh, Your Grace," She drew up short and fell into a curtsy. "A thousand apologies, my king," The pale haired old elleth began to ramble, ripping her gaze away from his eye to stare down the young girl still cowering behind him, "The princess managed to slip out of her room without our notice. I hope she hasn't been bothering-"

"Quite the feat," Gil-Galad interrupted, "considering she is but a child and you are four keen-eyed caretakers." Her face paled. "And I can assure you that my daughter is no bother. Not to me," the high king narrowed his gaze at the uncomfortable elleth, "nor should you consider her one." When Almarian failed to respond in a timely manner, Gil-Galad reached behind him to nudge the girl into her line of sight. "My daughter will be spending the rest of the day with me." He said icily and watched as the elleth before him squirmed. Normally, he didn't like pulling cheap power plays like this - but a line had been crossed. "I suggest you return to your comrades and tell them that I will be arranging a meeting with all of you to discuss how my daughter is being cared for. You are dismissed, Almarian." He hissed her name and she at least had the decency to look abashed. "Now," he turned his attention back to his daughter, laying a hand atop her head, "come along, ingaranel."

Turning on his heel, he started to walk, but was stopped after taking a single step by the feeling of his daughter's tiny hand taking hold of his. Gil-Galad looked down to find her beaming up at him, her eyes twinkling as if they held stars within them. "Thank you, atar."

atar - father

alma - flower

anel - daughter

aranel - princess

ingaranel - (lit) daughter of the high king

merca - wild

nin - my

[dxmoness]

𝐌𝐔𝐓𝐔𝐀𝐋𝐒 𝐕𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐄'𝐒 𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐓 — ???

𝐃𝐀𝐘 ??? ➢ Moon x Gallahan Lombardi

NOTE ➢ Sorry this is so late!! For @acuriousmoon ! I didn't know what to nickname you as so I just placed Moon! Hope you don't mind. Gallahan may be OOC here, only because I've never exactly read the manhwa yet. Hope this works out though!

GALLAHAN LOMBARDI

Moon was never one to think she'd ever marry anyone that wasn't fictional or whatever sort. She thought them deemed unworthy or whatever. That was until the day she died and got reincarnated into a new life she barely had an idea of!

She got reincarnated to a fascinating manhwa world. True it was fascinating, but it is also positioned in a time where killing was common and fighting was deemed a sport! Not only that but it was also the time where marriages by contract are most common amongst all.

This is where her fate lay that faithful day when she awoke in this world. Poisoned she was, they say in this body. The woman who once controlled it had died. She was killed off and Moon's spirit just so happened to be looking for a body to adjust in. Thus she found herself in this body.

A name unknown to her was what she was called. Brushing it off, she realized that if she were to survive she must find an ally in this world or die in a murderous rampage made by some jealous noble. Considering her options she chose to find an ally which incidentally was easy as it was. For this body served as the body of a man's wife. Well... Future wife that is.

Gallahan Lombardi.... Why did that name sound so familiar? As if she spoke it many times before. It struck her as she realized where she had heard it from. Gallahan Lombardi was a man and a father of Florentia Lombardi, a beautiful youth of a girl who was the female lead of one of the most talked about manhwas. At least that's what Moon remembered it to be.

Gallahan was a loving father, caring too. Unlike some fathers she knew of in manhwas who neglected their children once they arrived and killed their wives. As far as she knew, he (Gallahan) cherished his daughter and would do anything for her. Including murder. Though that was in some rare cases, instead of murder he used a face of fury and annoyance to scare off anyone bothering to do anything to his beloved daughter.

So when she realized that she was a fiancé of such a man. She knew she'd be able to live once she won his heart. But, first she'd have to win the daughter's trust.

Florentia Lombardi seemed... cheerful the first time they met. She was polite and seemed interested with everything Moon tried talking about. It was as if she, the person who once took control over this body, had already managed to make her happy and trusting her almost fully.

It was good progress either way for the two spent so much together it seemed as if they've so much as kindled their spirits.

"Daddy talks about you a lot." Moon nearly dropped her fork at the conversation starter Florentia just put out. Talk about her? A lot? Which part of her was it?

"Really..." Moon tried to keep calm. Now was not the time to wonder and panic over such a thing. "Yep!" Florentia said, eyes practically sparkling at the topic of her father.

"I see.. mind me asking what he talks about?" "Mostly about how much he enjoys you and all that!" Florentia gave a giggle. "Looks like he has a crush."

Crush? How could a kid like her be able to... Nevermind. "Interesting. I guess that is the goal y'know. I didn't become his fiancé for nothing." Moon gave a smile as she finished the last of her cake.

Those were the days before the marriage. Now she stood in front of a lot of people. From Gallahan's relatives to people of the court. They stood to bear witness to this delightful remarriage by Gallahan and herself.

Now he removes the veil from her as the priest continues to the final few sentences. The questions were asked and answered with ‘I do’s as the couple happily kissed.

Gallahan pressed his lips onto hers, causing the witnesses to clap as she kissed him back.

She found herself in the arms of her now husband as he carried her out of the church. What a joyous day for the newlyweds! May their love be forever.