#it's still awful but it's a little better right?

[sometimesanalice]

I just loved getting to read your thoughts! It’s always so fun to see the things that stand out the most to people!

More for you!

Ok, so I try something new. Kinda like a life comment while reading, let's see how it goes.— thank you for taking the time to write your thoughts out and share with me!!

Sweetie the effort is great, but that's why you google the places you go to. I feel so bad for reader though. A warning would have been nice. Hopefully, at least her date is appreciating the effort...— bless her!! The one time she decided to throw cation into the wind, it boomeranged and hit her right back in her face! I tried to fold in ways that showed how she was usually a planner, but trying something new (like the way she was stressed about not knowing the drinks menu and what to order). And then juxtapose how out of place she felt under the circumstances at the beginning, compared to the end with Bradley and how much more at ease she is because of him making her feel that way.

Bradley the cavalry comes to the rescue. At least the Valentine's day is getting a little better. Ok, I correct myself. It's getting a hell of a lot better. “Because if I’m being honest, if that asshole had actually shown up, I don’t know if I would have played fair.” Really Mr. Bradshaw? You wanna make me melt in my seat or what?— that man is all gas no brake!! There’s nothing subtle about him in the least! And it makes for so much fun! 🤭🤭🤭

“Good to know they still work, I wasn’t sure if I still had it.” Oh please. You are a 20/10.— cheeky boy!!

Ok. He gets her a ring on date one. If that's not the most romantic thing ever I don't know what is.— I’d be in an absolute FULL SWOON

“I take it you know, Malibu Ken?” The way I burst out into laughter at this perfect description of Hangman... even my dog gave me the side-eye for disturbing her sleep. Also, the annoying younger brother energy I am getting from this is priceless.— Hangman is a MENACE! Like let the man flirt with a pretty girl! 😂 he definitely deserved his new moniker!

I am so proud of reader for grilling Hangman with such grace. You go girl.— she was such a queen! She was like, I’ll just show you how it’s done 💅🏻

Also, that move with the dating app. Good god Rooster is just such a romantic and I'm living for it. I loved every second of their banter and the amount of times I've sat here awwing or kicking my feet while I giggle might be a bit alarming but I loved every second of it. This was such a wonderful read and I sure as hell will come back to this one quite often. Thank you so much for sharing this with us.— ahhh!! Oh that makes me so happy you liked this!! That dating app bit was a last minute burst of inspo and I’m so glad that I decided to include it because I love just the extra mile he went with that! 🤭

GIF by muvana

To you, for writing this masterpiece and to cute paper rings and milkshakes with two straws— 🥂🥂🥂

For the Plot

Summary: Things aren't looking too good for you, sitting alone at the Hard Deck waiting for a man who might not show. Until Bradley Bradshaw sits down across from you and turns your entire night upside down.

Pairing: Bradley ‘Rooster’ Bradshaw x Reader

Length: 7.7k

Warnings: fluff, so much flirting, and an italicized oh

Going on a first date on Valentine’s Day is unarguably the worst possible idea that anyone has ever had.And while the sure to be terrible, no good, horribly bad idea hadn’t been yours, you weren’t entirely sure what you were thinking when you’d even agreed to it in the first place.

The guy you were planning to meet tonight was cute enough, even if you were still undecided about the mustache. And while the chats between the two of you had been pretty good as far as it goes getting to know a literal stranger, you were hopeful that it could be even better in person. The fact he was in the Navy was still a bit of a consideration for you, but not a deal breaker.

In retrospect, the name of the bar should have been your first clue and the location paired with the causal beachy exterior covered in planes should have been the second.

You had been expecting to see more than one girl all done up in pinks and reds tonight, but you couldn’t have been more wrong. And you swear to god, somewhere you hear a record scratch as you step into the Hard Deck, because you are surrounded by nothing but a sea of olive green and khaki and denim.

And you have never been so clearly out of place in your entire life.

There was nothing about your ensemble that was even remotely fitting for the literal Navy bar you’d found yourself in.

The ice pink mini slip dress you’d dug out of your closet was admittedly a little much for a first date, but since it was Valentine’s Day you figured why not lean into it a bit. And well, if your date didn’t appreciate it, then that was a him problem.

Or so you’d thought at the time, because now it was a decidedly you problem.

The silhouette was simple enough, with the gentle drape of the cowl neck and the barely-there spaghetti straps, but the shiny sheen of the fabric made a statement of its own. It wasn’t something you got to wear very often for as much as you loved it.

But then you’d gone ahead and paired it with the tallest, most ostentation heels you had. The effort had been worth it though because the pearl encrusted block heels made your legs look like they went on for days. Even if it had been a feat trying to get the dainty buckle done with the way you’d been rushing out of the house with your beaded bag in tow.

The whole look was something you’d sure would come with Cher Horowitz’s seal of approval. However, the patrons of the Hard Deck you were less sure about. And even though there were civilians- like yourself- scattered about the bar, none were anywhere near as dressed up as you.

There are more than a few pairs of eyes on you as you stand there with your feet glued to the uneven wooden floors, as the door with its porthole-shaped window slowly closes behind you with a squeaky creak. The twinkle lights above your head felt more like a spotlight, illuminating how out of place you are in this moment.

Your hand is still clutched on the handle unsure whether you’re going to make a run for it or not. You are more than a little tempted to hightail it back to the parking lot and text your date to claim a bout of food poisoning from the safety of the driver’s seat in your car.

But chances are if your date is here then he has already seen you. A bright beacon of pink amongst varying shades of brown and woodgrain.

“Oh my god,” you mutter under your breath, trying not to panic. Officially a victim of your own bad decision making.

You take a quick scan of the room, trying to decide what your next move should be. There’s a woman behind the bar with kind but clearly inquisitive eyes. A blonde with a wolfish smile eyes you from where he stands next to a man with broad shoulders bent over what must be the pool table, hidden behind the paneled half wall. By a dart board, there are a couple men with their heads turned towards you, the game seemingly forgotten as they discuss the spectacle that is you.

There are hundreds of planes dangling over the bar, patches and plaques littering the walls and rafters, rounders suspended from the ceiling laden with too many ceramic mugs to count. It was all done with a heavy-handed, maximalistic approach that you’d take a moment to appreciate under any other given circumstances.

When you spot an open table tucked away in the corner of the room it feels like life raft to the iceberg of a situation you’ve put yourself in. Mindful of the scuffed, uneven floors- because the last thing you need is to eat shit or twist an ankle in front of room full of curious onlookers- you hustle over to the spot in hopes of having a moment to regroup.  

Once you’re situated- shrugging off the ivory cardigan you’d topped your outfit, trying to keep the nervous sweat that wanted to break out over your body at bay- you pull out your phone and check the time only to realize you’re devastatingly on time. Five minutes early, to be specific.

So you wait.

And check your phone again and the notifications in the dating app, just in case you missed something.

And wait.

You try to play it cool, skimming posts on Instagram and replying to some overdue texts. Finding anything you can to keep yourself occupied to ignore the sinking feeling in your stomach the longer you sit there. Alone.

Now you’re not just simply embarrassed, you’re mortified.

You can still feel the eyes, the energy steadily shifting from curiosity to sympathy over the last thirty minutes you’ve been waiting all alone in the corner of a Navy bar you had no business being in for a man who clearly wasn’t going to show.

So much for doing it for the plot, you think to yourself with a shake of your head.

Another minute ticks by with no message and you decide you’re more than ready to hightail it out of there. Fully aware that you’re about to become a topic of conversation that won’t have to be restricted to only covert glances and muffled whispers. But hopefully, they’ll at least wait until the door closes behind you before the chatter starts up for real.

With a sigh, you reach for your beaded bag, just as a large body slips into the chair across from you, with an ease that is in contrast to the bulk of muscles you catch in your peripheral vision.

“You look like you’re in need of a date,” a warm, raspy voice offers.

It’s the smile that you catch first. Not quite a grin, but something familiar and friendly and charming in the way it crookedly pulled to the left. Followed closely by the rich chocolate brown eyes that were squarely trained on you with a look that was just as earnest as it was playful. But what surprised you the most was the way he was sitting in the stool across from you just as comfortably as if he was supposed to be there all along.

There was no way you could have prepared yourself for the sheer level of attractiveness of this man.

He was in a league of his own with those curls and wide shoulders. The white and olive green stripped crochet shirt he was wearing didn’t hurt either, especially the way the top buttons were undone giving you glimpse of a chain around his neck and the chest underneath it. He didn’t need to be in uniform- or even in a Navy bar- for you to tell he was a military man. Not with the confident way he held himself.

Even if the mustache he was sporting made it feel like the universe was playing tricks on you, but he more than wore it well.

You huff out a self-deprecating laugh. “What gave it away?” you ask. “The way I’ve been watching the door? Or just the general look of regret and embarrassment?”

“Embarrassed? What do you have to be embarrassed about?” His eyebrows pull together, perplexed. He shakes his head like he disagrees with even the suggestion of it. “I think the only person who should be embarrassed is the guy who is missing out on sitting across from you right now.”

You give him a soft smile of your own in return for the cinnamon sweet words. There’s a genuineness in his tone that makes some of the tightness that had settled in your shoulders from the moment you’d walked in release.

“That’s kind of you, but I think I’m going to head out,” you say, nodding to the door you never should have stepped through in the first place.

He gives you a teasing tsk. “And let a dress like that go to waste? Now that would be a shame.”

The appreciative look in his gaze that sets off a swarm of butterflies in your stomach. And then his eyebrow ticks up, just a little. Part invitation, part dare. And you can’t say you’re not intrigued.

There’s a decision to make.

You could leave now and cut your losses. There was a reason you had a back-up pizza in the fridge and had left you well-loved copy of You’ve Got Mail sitting out on your coffee table.

Or you could stick around and see what happens next.

You tilt your head at him, just as teasing. “Would it now?”

“It would,” he states, sincerely.

Before you can reply, your phone lights up with a new notification, pulling you out of the whisky haze you’d found yourself in. 

His eyes dip down to your illuminated screen. “Is that him?”

“It is,” you confirm, almost regretfully. You open the app and skim the message. And then read it again.

There’s no sorry, no apology for cancelling a half an hour after the time for the date that had been his idea in the first place. And then he’d even had the audacity to tack on a cavalier maybe another time at the end.

Unbelievable.

He lets out a low whistle. “That bad, huh?”

“Apparently, I should have been the one to remind him that the fourteenth of February is a calendar holiday and a fan favorite day of the greeting card companies.” It’s so ridiculous you’d laugh if you weren’t so annoyed by the lack of consideration and the not-so-subtle blame he’d tried to shift on you. “Even though I did double check if he was sure about meeting up today, I guess I didn’t realize I actually needed to spell out ‘Valentine’s Day’ for him.”

The man across from you doesn’t bother holding back the less than impressed look on his face. And you decide you like that about him, that he wears his thoughts so openly. It’s refreshing.

“Do you mind if I take a look at his profile?”

You shrug and pass your phone over. You were planning on blocking West the second you had a moment anyways. You see him roll his eyes and guess it has something to do with the amount of shirtless gym selfies.

He snorts as he scrolls, “Please, his mustache has nothing on mine.”

An amused laugh escapes you. “Are we ranking mustaches now? Because if that’s the case, I’m sorry to say that I’d have to give it to Selleck.”

“Fair enough,” he concedes good-naturedly, as he hands you back your phone. “But am I at least a close second?” There’s no mistaking the flirtatious tone in his voice.

You hum and take full advantage of the opportunity to look at him unabashedly, mapping the contours of his face because you can.

To simply call him handsome would be an understatement.

The way the golden light of the sunset is hitting him you catch some sunkissed strands in those soft looking waves of his hair. There’s the beginning of some crinkles around the edges of his eyes. You notice the scars on his face, some that look long healed and others that are still a light pink- like the one on the side of his neck and beneath is ear. And that mustache on him worked for you, one hundred percent.

There’s a playful glint in his eyes as he lets you assess him that leaves no question as to whether or not he’s been flirting with you. You like the way he’s looking at you and the way he’s easily made you forget about being overdressed and how uncomfortable you were even just five minutes ago. You’re having fun. And while you still haven’t answered his question from earlier, you have no doubt that he’d show you a good time if you let him.

“Maybe not a close second, but yours is certainly up there,” you tease.

He grins. “I can work with that.” There’s something about the way he adds on for now that has a spark dancing up along your spine. And then he sticks out his hand, “I’m Bradley.”

It’s a good name. It suits him. It’s one you think you’ll enjoy the way your tongue will curl around the letters of it in your mouth.

When you give him yours in return, he sits up straighter in his seat, like he’s won a small victory.

You don’t doubt that he’s the chivalrous type, the fact that he’s gone out of his way to come over to try and turn this evening around for you says more about him than any dating profile with nonsense questions and overthought answers ever could. But with a man like him, one who’d swoop in to save the night of a stranger because she looks like a damsel in distress, there’s an answer to a question you need to hear first.

“Bradley, this isn’t a pity thing, is it?” You were right, you like the way saying his name feels. You drop your hands into your lap, as you search his eyes. “Because if it is, that’ll make me feel worse than being stood up did.”

The way the words were sitting out and open on the table between the two of you made you feel vulnerable in a way you didn’t like. But you’d rather know now before anything goes further. Doing it for the plot or not, your ego could only take so much bruising in one evening.

He pins you with a look so serious that you feel it down to your toes. “Trust me, this is furthest thing from a ‘pity thing’, as you put it,” Bradley says, his tone slipping down a few gravelly notes. “Because if I’m being honest, if that asshole had actually shown up, I don’t know if I would have played fair.”

Oh.

A thrilling rush of warmth courses through you as your cheeks heat up.

You nod, trying to not look as affected as you feel. “Ok, I believe you.”

“Good,” he smirks, his gaze dropping down and lingering on your lips. You didn’t realize you’d trapped your lower lip between your teeth, you release it immediately. “Because you should know, I would have come over sooner- the second I saw you, actually- if I’d known. That’s some dress, sweetheart,” Bradley continues, “Plus, you’d be doing me a favor.”

You couldn’t help but be curious, so you lean in closer. “Oh, how so?”

Bradley mirrors you, crossing his thick forearms over each other and leans in that much closer. “I haven’t had a Valentine in years,” he says it like he’s letting you in on a secret.

For the first time all night, you don’t regret wearing the dress. You don’t regret the ostentatious shoes or the glimmering beaded bag. You don’t regret walking through that creaky door. You don’t regret showing up tonight.

How could you when you’ve just been served the best plot twist you’ve possibly ever experienced? A meetcute you never could have seen coming.

You realize just how close your faces have gotten and lean back in your seat, from fear of thinking you might do something stupid, like kiss him. “Will you stop with the big cow eyes, if I agree?”

Those crinkles around his eyes deepen, “Good to know they still work, I wasn’t sure if I still had it.”

You press your lips together trying to hide your smile, all too thoroughly charmed, but the corners of your mouth curl up all the same.

“Trust me, you have plenty.”

And Bradley’s own smile gets even wider.

Anyone in the bar can see how pleased with himself he is at your words. It rolls off of him in steady waves and swirls around your shins and ankles.

He makes a show of settling further into his seat, now that it is officially his seat. “What’re we thinking? One milkshake, two straws?”

You play along and pretend to ponder the offer for a moment. “That seems more like a second date type of activity, does it not?”

“You’re right, something to look forward to for next time,” he responds, not missing a beat. “So, can I buy you a drink?”

“I’ll allow it.”

“I was hoping you’d say that.”

There wasn’t a menu or anything on the table when you sat down, so you aren’t sure what all is offered here. You thought you might have caught a glimpse of a laminated stack near register when you’d first walked in, but you hadn’t wanted to draw any more attention to yourself at the time by getting up again and wandering around and reminding people just how out of place you’d been.

You look around and see a mix of ceramic steins, pint glasses, beer bottles, and a few stems of wine on tabletops and in the hands of the other patrons.

The noise of the bar had become a faint white noise in your ears as the two of you talked, but it comes back in full force now.

“If they have rosé, I’d take a glass of that.” It isn’t hard to miss the hesitation in your voice, feeling a little silly defaulting to your usual go-to. You don’t imagine they go through a ton of pink wine here. “But, uhm, anything on tap would be fine too, if they don’t.”

Bradley’s lips twitch up. Not in a smirk, but something caught between amused and something else you can’t quite describe.

You try not to fidget under his warm gaze, “What?”

He slides out of his stool and rounds the table, setting a big hand on the armrest near your elbow, “There’s something you should know about me, sweetheart.”

“And what’s that?” you ask, more than a little breathlessly. Feeling a little high off of the smell of his leather and vanilla cologne, and something underneath that that reminds you of kerosene in a way that makes you want to breathe him in even more.

Bradley dips down close, his lips just a whisper from your ear, and murmurs, “Pink is my favorite color.”

Your head tips back on its own as you laugh. Its unabashedly loud and bright and delighted thing that fills the nooks and crannies of the corner you’d tucked yourself away into. And if a few heads turn your way because of it, that’s alright with you.

You don’t believe him, not one little bit. But that’s part of the fun. The back and forth, the flirting, the banter, the teasing. He’s so quickly turned this night around for you, you already know your cheeks are going to hurt by the end of it.

The sound of Bradley’s own laughter chases after yours. It’s warm and raspy and boyish, and you like the sound of it. You like him.

“One rosé, coming up,” he says, giving your shoulder a light squeeze before he steps out of your space. “There’s nothing I like more than a girl who commits to a theme.”

You catch his wrist, his skin warm under your palm. “Wait, what’s it really?”

“Red,” Bradley says, then gives you a slow once over, making your pulse spark in your veins. “But you’ve got me second guessing myself now.” He gives you a wink and then heads towards the bar.

You watch stunned as he saunters away, admiring the way the light wash jeans he’s wearing form to his long legs, before taking a moment to send a string of words punctuated with more than a few exclamation points to the group chat.

When he comes back, only a few minutes later, he has glass of familiar pink wine in one hand and a bottle of beer in the other. And oddly enough, a straw tucked into the pocket on his shirt.

“It’s almost a perfect match,” he notes, when he sets it in front of you.

“At least I won’t have to worry about staining if I end up spilling on myself.”

Bradley chuckles and moves his stool in closer to yours, sitting back down with more smooth grace than a man with his build has any right to move. He tips the neck of his beer towards you, and you lightly tap your wine glass against it.

You take a sweet sip. “So.”

“So,” he repeats, with a teasing lift of his eyebrow.

“What’s your move?” you ask, running a glossy tipped finger around the rim of your wineglass.

“My move?” And there’s that grin again, one he doesn’t try to hide as he takes a sip of his own.  “‘m pretty sure I’ve been showing you my moves since I sat down. I’ve never been good at being subtle.”

Bradley pulls the straw from his pocket and taps it a few times against the shellacked woodgrain table top. He takes the flimsy wrapper carefully starts twisting it, a little furrow of concentration forms between his brows, spiraling it until it’s pulled taut against itself.  

You set an elbow on the edge, resting your chin on your hand as you study him. “But what’s the big move? I know you have one,” you press further.

His hands are big, calloused and rough, but capable. You want to know the story behind the scar that’s near the base of his thumb. You note that he wears his watch on the right instead of the left, and you pocket that new discovery for yourself the way a kid enthusiastically collects rocks in a park.

Bradley takes that piece of paper and folds it in half before twisting it again.

You watch in fascination as that pleased grin transforms into a confident smirk, like he’s enjoying even just the thought of showing you his big move. He looks like good trouble.

Bradley’s eyes slowly lift to yours, his hands pausing whatever he’s doing with that wrapper. He shoots a thumb to the left towards the end of the oval shaped bar. “You see that piano over there?”

“Mhm.” It’s an almost purr.

“That’s my big move.”

You feel your eyebrows lift in surprise. Bradley gave off such hometown golden boy vibes, you’d never have expected that he’d be the musical type too. The idea of seeing those hands fly over a set of black and white piano keys made your stomach tighten deliciously in anticipation.

“Am I going to get to see it?”

His gaze is steady on you when he replies, “Yeah, sweetheart, I’ll show you my move.”

A grin stretches across your face and you feel downright giddy, as you wiggle your shoulders in triumph.

Bradley shakes his head amused, and then refocuses his efforts on the task he’d started with the straw wrapper. He struggles only for a moment- those large fingers getting in the way- as he tries to open the end just enough to slip the tail though. He gives it one more final twist, securing the loop, before inspecting his handiwork.

“Now, since we’re valentines and all, it seemed only fitting that I get you- well, make you- a little something.” Bradley gives you a soft, boyish smile as he holds out his palm towards you, and in the center of it is a perfectly crafted paper ring. “Sorry, I couldn’t find you a Ring Pop on short notice.”

The words escape you for a moment at the sheer sweetness of the gesture.

Gently, you take it from his outstretched hand, and slip it onto the pointer finger of your right hand, adjusting it with care until you have it situated just right.

“I usually wouldn’t be able to accept something so grand on a first date. But for you, I’ll make an exception,” you say, liltingly. “Thank you, Bradley.”

You look down to appreciate it again, more than a little tempted to take it off and tuck it securely into your purse for safekeeping. For as much as you liked your dress and bag and your shoes, that little paper ring was now your favorite piece of the outfit you were wearing.

When you glance back up at him, his cheeks have the faintest pink hue to them. The little nonchalant shrug he tries to give you does nothing to hide how pleased he looks. “I make a mean daisy chain too. We might have to wait a couple months for Spring, but I’m good for it.”

Your mind flashes with an image of you and him in a park with a picnic basket sat between the two of you, and those large hands of his threading celery green stems together. It’s a pretty picture.

“Well, aren’t you just a regular modern day Renaissance man.”

“I’m a man of many talents,” he rasps, silky smooth. It makes goosebumps raise along your arms. “Now, I’ve told you mine. Can’t say I’m not dying to know what your big move is. Am I going to get to see it, sweetheart?”

“Maybe,” you muse, lifting your glass to take another sip, “If you’re good.”

Bradley hooks a foot under you stool and tugs you just a few inches closer. “Just out of curiosity, what’s your position on kissing on a first date?”

You bend forward towards him and think you hear his breath hitch, you smile. “I’ll keep you posted.”

You’re still looking at his lips when a shout from across the bar startles you both.

“Bradshaw!”

Bradley mutters a string of curses and then blows out a breath, giving you a smoldering look that tells you that the conversation is far from over. You’re more than willing to let him try and change your mind about where he lands in the mustache rankings.

You look over your shoulder to see the with the sharp smile from earlier waving your date over to the pool table. “I take it you know, Malibu Ken?”

“Unfortunately.” A mischievous look coasts over his face. “But I’ll get you all the Ring Pops you could ever want if you say that to his face.”

You laugh. “I’m holding out for that daisy chain.”

Another holler rings out from across the room, the same Southern drawl as before.

“Seems like he wants your attention. Is he a Leo?”

He snorts. “You know what, he just might be. But more like he’s been waiting for the right moment to annoy me since I ditched him to come talk to a pretty girl instead.”

You try not to preen at the compliment.

“The relentless type, huh?”

“You don’t know the half of it. I think I’m about thirty seconds from him queuing up “You Make Me Feel So Young” on repeat just to fuck with me,” Bradley explains. There’s a story there and you want to know more. “I know I still owe you the big move, but is it alright if I try to show off a little for you now? Just to get off my back for the rest of the night, then I’m all yours.”

You feel like you’ve just pulled an ace from your pocket.

“What are the stakes?” you ask, intrigued.

“Two hundred dollars and a whiskey,” Bradley replies.

You let out a low whistle, trying to school the catlike grin that wants to overtake your face. “That’s a lot of Ring Pops.”

The corners of his mouth curl up. “I was thinking dinner for our third date,” he says. “I’m buying for our second, of course. But it’s only right that we split the spoils of war.”

The sound of a brass band rings out over the staticky speakers and Bradley hangs his head down and lets out a long-suffering groan. You playfully pat his shoulder in faux commiseration.

You pretend to consider it for a moment, but you already know your answer. “Okay,” you agree, “Just as long as you’re okay with a little respectful ogling. You like my dress, and I like those jeans you’re wearing.”

He laughs, it’s a throaty rich sound. “I’d be offended if you didn’t.”

You gather for you purse and sweater as Bradley stands. His hands come to your waist, helping you off the chair, your bodies closer than close. It’s a forward move- he knows it, you know it- but with him, you don’t mind at all.

Bradley offers you his hand and you take it in yours; his fingers slip between yours easily like the two of you have already done this before.  

The two of you only make it a few steps before you tug on his hand, waiting until he looks at you from over his shoulder before asking, with a lifted brow, “Bradley Bradshaw?”

He huffs out a not-so-exasperated sigh, “I blame it on the 80’s.”

“Whatever you say, Brad-Brad.” It’s the one and only time you’re ever going to say it, you decide. You like saying his name too much to shorten it. And his back may be turned to you now, but that now familiar chuckle still makes its way to your ears.

Bradley leads you to the bar first, where he buys another glass of rosé and a beer for himself. When you try to pass your credit card to the woman behind the counter, he takes it, and rasps into your ear, “Let me.”

He tucks it right back into your purse as the sound of brass instruments starts up yet again.

“Like a dog with a goddamn bone,” you hear him mumble. And you press your lips together to keep from laughing. Sure, you’d rather be seeing his big move, but you can’t claim not to be amused by all of this.

He nods to a group of people in the corner near the popcorn machine when the two of you enter the alcove with pool table. Some of his other friends of his you assume.

You send them a little wave, one that they return in greeting. You can tell they’re curious, but you’re grateful when they resume their conversation instead of making you feel like your date with Bradley had become a spectator sport for their viewing entertainment.

The first thing Bradley does is introduce you to his friend. It’s a little thing, but he does it without prompt or awkwardly leaving you to take the initiative yourself. You appreciate the way he is still prioritizing your comfort the way he’s been doing it since he first sat down across from you.

The second thing he does is pull out a chair for you. Not with a fanfare, not with a flourish. But like it’s something that’s innately ingrained in him. You get the sense that the gentleman thing isn’t an act with him, it’s who he is.

Jake rests a hip against the table. “Sorry to interrupt your date, but Bradshaw and I had some unfinished business.”

You wave him off, it’s not a big deal. Not when you’ll have the rest of the night with Bradley. Plus, you’re eager to watch this play out between them, curious about their gameplay.

“Yeah, yeah. Let’s get this over with,” Bradley rumbles, as he arranges the balls in the rack. And you wonder if he lost the lag before he’d made his way over to your table for one.

He comes back over to you, and leans on the ledge next to you as he chalks his cue. You’d thought about slipping your sweater back on, with the outside chill pressing against the line of glass windows at your back, but Bradley had more than enough warmth radiating off of him that you didn’t need to.

“You that eager to be out a couple hundred, Bradshaw?” Jake grins, as he leans over the side of the table. He turns his gaze to you and sends you a wink right before he breaks, sending the cue ball barreling into the others with a resounding clack, scattering them across the table.

And then they’re off.

It’s a rapid fire of back-and-forth banter between the men as they take their shots. Mostly good natured, but undeniably competitive. Smirking when they land their shots, and snarking over fouls. Clear that neither of them wants to lose.

Jake is all confident posturing, playing low over the cue with a lightly too tight grip. It’s the only thing that gives him away that he’s not the easygoing player as he wants people to think he is. Choosing higher risk shots that would highlight his ability versus some of the more straightforward options laid out for him, and skilled enough that it pays off most of the time. But after a couple rounds you note he’s too quick to stand up after taking his shot, not enough follow through because he’s too eager to see if his gamble pays off.

Bradley is all loose-limbed ease, clearly comfortable in both his skin and at the table. You can tell he’s probably playing quicker than he normally does, clearly trying to hurry up the game for your sake, even though he doesn’t need to. Although he does take his time as he positions himself around the table, only adjusting his bridge every now and then. Always with a 1-2 shot, a warm-up stroke followed by a steady hit. Watching him you catch his tendency to throw out his elbow of the follow through.

The two are pretty well matched in skill, you observe with keen eyes, as the balls skate across the Top Gun insignia, against the rails, and into pockets.

When Bradley’s not up to play, he’s by your side, right at your elbow. And when he is, it’s your eyes he’s looking into the moment he stands back up, seeking out your reaction. But more than once you feel his eyes on you as you watch them play.

True to your word, you to admire him in those snug fitting jeans. And when he catches your appreciative gaze, he sends you a wink before lining up his next shot.

Jake sinks another solid into the pocket he’d called only moments ago, and turns his dimpled smile at you, “You still sure about your date with the old man, chickadee? I bet I could show him up in that department too.”

The way he says it, you know he’s just teasing, probably just to rile you date up and get a reaction from him.

“Unfortunately for you, I think I have a thing for mustaches now,” you toss back, unbothered. And Bradley smiles into his drink.

You watch as Jake lines up his next shot and hits the white with a compact stroke.

“Double hit,” you declare.

“Dammit,” Jake curses.

You look over to see Bradley looking at you with a focused look on his face. Like there’s a theory clicking into place, one he needs the answer to. Wordlessly, he hands you the cue.

“You sure?” you ask.

“Two hundred dollars sure,” he states.

You take it from him with a sly grin.

Bradley’s thighs brush against the front of your knees, you know if you parted them even a couple inches, that he’d fit just right between them. His hands landing on your waist again as he assists you off the stool you’ve been perched on. And you’re starting to think he just likes an excuse to touch you, not that he needs one because you already more than like the feel of his hands on your body.

You walk the pool table, running a finger around the rails as you do. Evaluating the balls on the table like they’re chess pieces. The slow clip of your heels on the floor like the tick of a clock as you take your time deciding your approach.

“You’re the stripes,” Jake offers helpfully. “Don’t worry, I’ll even let you have a free shot.”

And you can’t help but laugh because this is going to be fun.

“Bradley?” you ask, leisurely chalking your cue.

“Yeah, sweetheart?”

“Do you mind?” You gesture to the spot behind you, and he catches on quick with a not-so-subtle glance at the short hem of your skirt.

He sets his beer down and comes to stand behind you, there’s just enough space between the two of you that you don’t have to worry about hitting him with the cue, his broad from proving you the coverage you needed to bend over the table. While you don’t think you’d mind Bradley seeing the silk thong you had on underneath your dress, you weren’t exactly up for flashing the whole bar.

You haven’t played in a while, but it’s a muscle memory at this point, as you map out your moves. Seeing the lines and angles and arcs in your mind’s eye before anchoring your bridge.

You look at Bradley from over your shoulder, only to see his eyes are trained on the ceiling with his tongue pressed against his cheek. A gentleman, albeit not an unaffected one. A tendril of smokey gratification curls its way along your spine. You turn your head back to the pool table looking between the cue, target, cue ball, target.

It’s a smooth stroke with a satisfying crack. A clean three-rail shot that lands the striped five into the pock you’d intended for it.

“Damn” is all Jake says. His eyes you up, clearly impressed.

“You sure about that free shot, Jake?” You stand up and smooth out your dress, just for the show of it. “Or do you want to make it double or nothing instead, Malibu Ken?” You hear Bradley snort from behind you.

And just like you thought, he wasn’t one to back down from a challenge, “Deal.” Jake turns to Bradley. “I just let your girl hustle me, didn’t I?”

“You sure did,” Bradley says with a grin, but his eyes are on you.

Neither are surprised when you sink your next shot too. The six sailing into the left corner pocket.

On your next shot, you may or may not deliberately foul. A tactical choice that sets Jake up with a less than ideal position on the table, knowing it’ll be a difficult shot for him to make.

“Now you’re just toying with me, aren’t you?” Jake grouses.

You just smile and take a sip of the rosé that Bradley hands you, neither confirming or denying.

Surprisingly, he banks it.  But his good luck only lasting through that one play. Because on his next, the ball glances off the side rail at too acute an angle to reach the intended pocket and he groans.

Not quite ready to be done, you ease off a little. Enough that they both know you’re going easy on him to extend the game longer, just so that he can catch up to you.

But soon enough, soon there’s only your eight ball left on the table.

“Looks like you’re about to be out four hundred dollars, Jake,” you say with a self-satisfied smirk.

“Just put me out of my misery already.”

You turn to Bradley, who has been carefully positioning himself behind you the whole time. You hold out the cue to him and ask, “Do you want the honors?”

He shakes his head. “Go on, finish him off, sweetheart. I’m enjoying the show.”

And when your final ball tips into the side pocket, Jakes resounding groan is drown out by the whistle Bradley lets loose between his thumb and pointer finger, as you turn towards him beaming.

“The atm’s by the restroom.” Bradley sounds only too happy to remind Jake as he closes the gap between the two of you.

You look over his wide shoulder, “As for the whiskey, something expensive please, Malibu Ken.”

Jake huffs a grumble but nods all the same as he goes to round up your winnings.

“Scored four hundred dollars and a valentine, that’s not too shabby, if I do say so myself,” you preen to Bradley.

“Think that might have been the best thing I’ve seen all year,” Bradley announces. “The hottest too, if I’m being honest.” You feel your cheeks heat under his gaze. His finger slips under the thin strap of your dress that had fallen off your shoulder somewhere along the way. He slides it back up and into place, treating it like some delicate thing the same way he did that paper wrapper. “Where’d you learn to play like that?”

Normally, this is when you’d rerack, but you’ve never had a Bradley Bradshaw looking at you before.

“I took a class in college over the summer as an elective credit, and it turns out I had a knack for it,” you explain with a playful little shrug.

“I’ll say.” He takes another step closer. “Did you just show me your move, sweetheart?”

“One of them,” you grin.

You don’t have to press up to his height, not with your pearly heels.

You wrap your arms around his neck and bring his lips to yours for a kiss. A sound of surprise escapes from his throat. You feel the curve of a smile before his hands slide around your waist to pull you closer.

The scrape of his mustache against your upper lip sends electricity racing along every nerve ending in your body. In that moment you are Midas touched, the blood thrumming through your veins feels like liquid gold. It’s unhurried, like he’s been waiting to savor the feel of your mouth against his. Exciting and new as you learn the taste and touch of him. You knew it was going to be good, but even so, it’s better than you could have expected.

“Think you just snagged that number one spot of my list of favorite mustached men,” you say against his lips.

“Suck it, Selleck,” he rasps.

You inhale the amusement of his light chuckle, letting it go to your head like champagne bubbles, before he slips a hand around the base of your neck and pulling you in close once again.

A couple hours later, you find yourself at home on the couch. Your cheeks a little sore from how much smiling you’d done tonight, as Tom and Meg trade words over a plate of caviar on screen.

It was only much later that night you’d gotten to see Bradley’s big move.

He’d surprised you with his voice and the talented way his fingers glided over the white and black keys. An expensive glass of amber colored liquor sitting atop the old piano as he played, and four hundred dollars tucked safely away in your purse.

You’d given him your number when he’d walked you to your car, only distracting you for a few extra minutes with his mouth, before you’d left for the night, hoping that you’d hear from him soon.

A notification lights up your phone, and a ribbon of thrill unspools through you.

You sigh when you see that it’s a notification from your dating app. You’re wary to open it, not wanting anything to color your night, but you figure now is as good of time as any to block the guy who had nothing on the one you’d spent your evening with.

When you see the name of the person who’d sent you a message, you click into his profile with lightning-fast fingers, skimming all the details to things you hadn’t had a chance to learn yet.

𝐁𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐥𝐞𝐲 𝐁𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐰

𝐀𝐠𝐞: 𝟑𝟓

𝐉𝐨𝐛 𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: 𝐏𝐢𝐥𝐨𝐭

𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥: 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐕𝐢𝐫𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐚

𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐬: 𝐋𝐢𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥

𝐙𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐜 𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧: 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫

There is a picture of him in uniform, grinning to someone out of the frame. And another one of him shirtless on the beach, surrounded by some of the faces you’d seen tonight at the Hard Deck.

But it’s the answers to the prompts that he’d picked, that set your heart fluttering.

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐟 𝐈 𝐭𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭: 𝐈 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐥𝐨𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐩𝐩 𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐠𝐢𝐫𝐥, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐠𝐢𝐫𝐥 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲. (𝐈 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐟𝐞𝐰 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐡𝐞𝐫.)

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐬: 𝐈 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐚 𝐠𝐢𝐫𝐥 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬, 𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐲 𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬.

𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭: 𝐈 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐩𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬.

That one makes you laugh.

You open the message from him, one that had been sent with a rose.

𝐁𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐥𝐞𝐲 𝐁𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐰: 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐈 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐨𝐧 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞? 𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐨, 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨𝐨 𝐬𝐨𝐨𝐧? 𝐈 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞 𝐈 𝐨𝐰𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚 𝐑𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐨𝐩.

You don’t even have to think.

𝐘𝐨𝐮: 𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐰𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐰𝐬 𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝?

And you can’t help but grin to yourself as look at that paper ring still on your finger. Because you know, this app won’t be on your phone for much longer.

Not now that you’ve met him.

Happy Hearts Day, friends! Thank you for reading!

And a big thank you to Jordan ( @gretagerwigsmuse) for all the support and encouragement and general woogirling over Bradley Bradshaw!

You can read my other stories here!

Taglist:

@gretagerwigsmuse @sehnsuchts-trunken  @callsignspark @notroosterbradshaw @tongue-like-a-razor @laracrofted @ofstoriesandstardust @bradshawsbitch @starryeyedstories @top-hhun-main @startrekfangirl2233 @callsign-viper @teacupsandtopgun @angelbabyange @oneelleandaneye @mizzzpink @cornishkat @alana4610 @20th-centu-fairy-girl @pono-pura-vida @donttouchmycarrots @eg-dr3amer3 @whaledots-blog @a-beaverhausen @hangmanscoming @mandolin22 @theweekndhistorybook @lilpeekabooze @high-bi-imgonnacry @ahintofkiwistrawberry @ruewrote @spiderman-stilinski @jayniebop @my-soulmate-is-mycroft @imaginecrushes @keyrani @chicomonks @artemissunn @mayempress @eddiemunsonreader

[novvabee]

Birthday Present

Summary: poly!marauders x reader, you give Sirius a cute gift

cw: suggestiveness if you squint, general fluff

word count: 1K

“Ok now open your eyes!” You said excitedly to your boyfriend.

He was covering his eyes with his hands, being led by James and Remus on either side.

This elaborate surprise all started about a month ago. Sirius’s birthday was quickly approaching, the first birthday out of all of you. You knew that you wanted to do something special for him. You knew that he was almost impossible to shop for, he has everything he needs or wants, he is terrible at saving his money and impulsively buys whatever he wants when he sees it. 

The few things you knew you could buy for him, James and Remus had already got for him. Remus a few new vinyl records and James a pair of brand new black Converse. 

It was you who brainstormed those ideas up and your boyfriends took them right out from under you before you got the chance to go out and buy them yourself. Those assholes. Those absolutely lovely, kind, and caring assholes. 

You knew that you had to go in a different direction, then. You also wanted to upstage the two idea thieves slightly, but you wouldn’t admit that out loud. 

You then remembered a charm that you could try and teach yourself. You didn’t have long to learn and practice it, especially when all three of your boyfriends were attached at the hip, attached at your hip. You weren’t exactly complaining, you loved them, but you couldn’t exactly practice your surprise in front of the birthday boy and you didn’t trust James and Remus to not ruin the surprise for Sirius.

So that meant sneaking off in the middle of the night most nights, slipping out of the comfort of your boyfriends warm embraces and the soft cozy bed. But you would do it if it meant you could see a smile on Sirius’s face.

So you practiced and practiced all those late nights for this exact moment.

Sirius dropped his hands and opened his eyes. He blinked at you standing in the middle of your shared bedroom. He looked slightly confused.

“Are you my present, love?” he said in a suggestive tone.

You giggled in reply before muttering the complex incantation. Once the last syllable left your lips, the room became lit in a magical glow. The roof appearing to fall away and a universe of stars and planets taking its place.

All three of your boyfriends looked up in awe.

Sirius was the first to step forward, still entranced in the charm. His eyes scanned from point to point, from star to magic star. He smiled, face glowing from the blues and purples being reflected on him by your little trick.

You thought for a moment that maybe you should have gotten him something. This wasn’t a tangible or memorable object that he could have. You waited for a moment before explaining yourself. “Look, I know its not much,” you started, “I just- I thought that I could-”

“This is amazing!” Sirius exclaimed. “I- how did you…” Sirius seemed to be at a loss for words, stepping under the small universe you created.

“This is beautiful,” James spoke up. 

“It's incredible,” Remus agreed.

You felt better about the charm now. You thought that maybe your present wasn’t enough, that maybe you could just say this was what you could come up with as a sort of place holder until you could get a real gift. But their reactions, Sirius’s reaction in particular, set your mind at ease.

“Look!” Sirius said joyfully, grabbing Remus’s hand and pulling him to the center of the room. “It's all of us.”

“All of us?” James asked, amused and confused.

Sirius motioned up at the magic ceiling, ponting at the moon “Well, here’s Moony of course,” He pointed out the brightest shining star in the corner of the room, hanging above the bed, “That’s me, the Sirius star,” he then made his way to drag James under the glowing sun. “And here you are.”

You smiled ear to ear. “Yeah, I guess that is all of you.” you said, admiring your work.

“And you.” Sirius said from across the room, still holding James’s hand.

“And me?” you repeated to him, confused.

He crossed the room to where you had planted yourself since the big reveal. He closed the gap and cupped your face in both hands, tilting your head up to look at him. You were met with the glow of his eyes, both from the magic ceiling you had created and from the look of pure love and joy he was giving you. He looked so beautiful.

“You are the galaxy that holds us all together, without you, there would be no reason for us to shine now would there?” You weren’t too sure about his logic, but it was sweet nonetheless. You turned your face to kiss the inside of his palm and smiled at the feeling of his warmth.

Later that night, once all the gifts were given, when you were through with your fancy dinner date, after you all sang happy birthday and sat in your living room to eat the cupcakes you made for Sirius, when you all crawled into bed, Sirius nuzzled closer to you. 

His head on your chest, his body almost fully encapsulating your own. You played lightly with the ends of his hair, twirling them softly between your fingers. You heard James and Remus sleeping, breathing long and deep, cozied up with one another. 

“Love,” Sirius said softly, as not to wake the other two.

You hummed a response.

“That spell,” He started, “Is it… difficult?”

“Not at all.” you answered him. You had practiced it over and over to the point where you could probably do it in your sleep.

“Well… that’s good.” He said. You got the impression that there was more he wanted to say about it, but had become shy.

“What about it, Siri? You wanna learn it?” You asked. You would gladly teach it to him if he wanted, again, you had practiced it so much you could teach it to him easily.

“No,” He said sleepily, “But could you maybe do it again? Before we go to bed?”

You smiled and whispered the spell. The room lit yet again with the stars and planets. Sirius smiled slightly, eyes taking the whole picture in. You both laid there, under the stars and watched the beautiful night sky, just holding each other and appreciating the beauty before sleep eventually took over you both.

[rookanis-de-riva]

Rook: All right, who taught Manfred how to fist fight? ... I know it was one of you, so don't make me call Neve back from Minrathous to solve this. Taash?

Taash: What? I didn't do it!

Rook: I was just asking if you knew anything, but ...

Taash: Yeah, I know Davrin let Manfred sit in on his lessons with Assan. Maybe he was teaching them both how to fight.

Davrin: First of all, Assan would gulp down his phalanges like carrots. So no, it wasn't me. Try asking the assassin who gave him a knife.

Lucanis: Was it the one I just had to pull out of my back? Snitch.

Taash: You were handing out free knives, and I didn't get one??

Lucanis: I would teach fledglings better than to fight with their fists like some brute, that is what the knife is for.

Harding: Y'know, Bellara has been pretty quiet ...

Bellara: WHAT? Me? I don't even know how to fist fight!

Harding: Don't try that cute little elf face with me, you're an archer with serious back muscles.

Bellara: So are you! And, I wasn't going to say anything, buuut I did see you teaching him how to make a fist.

Harding: For rock, paper, scissors!

Davrin: Hmm. A likely story.

Lucanis: Who even calls it that? It is dagger, bow, shield.

Davrin: Now I know you're just fucking with us.

Taash: If he got a cape too, I'm throwing you off the island!

--party descends into in-fighting and chaos while Emmrich fusses over Manfred's broken knuckles--

Rook confessing to Varric later: It was me. I taught him how to throw a left hook and he immediately swung at me, but I dodged and he hit the wall. I just don't want Emmrich to kill and skeletonize me.

Varric: Aw kid, he wouldn't do that. When he finds out, he's gonna strip the flesh from your bones while you're still alive :)

[ohmotherwhereartthou-if]

Soooo, I have a small angsty ask if you’re up for it, how would RO’s react if mc flinched when they make a sudden movement while in an argument?

Ooh drama!

Cassandra: Wide eyed and freezes mid sentence, lowers her voice IMMEDIATELY and apologies. She feels awful because she knows that she gets scary when she is mad, she has learned to be after being surrounded by military men all her life. She never wants MC to think she would ever raise a hand to them in anger (...I mean unless MC cheated on her, then it is a 50/50 coin toss if she puts hands on them). Otherwise though, the fight would end right there and then. If the fight wasn't over anything major she would calm down and make sure MC is okay. If the fight was over something big then she would walk away to calm herself.

Valeria: She also jumps back with MC and quickly asks them genuinely what was wrong? She wouldn't get it herself, being raised in a loving home and having a sheltered life; but that doesn't mean she wouldn't me sympathetic. No matter how mad she might be, Valeria will always be the first to offer help to others. She would sit down and hold MC until they are okay, even if she can't really imagine why MC could ever fathomly think she would hit them.

Tomás: Just stab him in the heart why don't you? Throw him off the roof, shoot him in the head, and beat him with a metal club because all of that would honestly be kinder than ever making him realize MC could ever be afraid of him that way. Honest to God, this man would sooner CUT OFF his own hand than have you EVER think that he would do that to you. The look in his eyes in that moment? AGH, it hurts me to even imagine it! He would be so heartbroken and shocked. Whatever you guys were arguing about, (again, unless it was about cheating... if you ever cheat on Tomás (first of all, how dare you?) he wouldn't hit you but he wouldn't really feel the same about you being scared of him, as he is right now.) consider it forgotten. He will spend the next week apologizing and practically punishing himself for making you feel threatened.

-

Ludovica: Oh, she gets it. Believe me, she would get this better than anyone. Nobody else could possibly relate more than her, she would hardly ever be so mad at MC that she would yell but if MC ever thought she would do such a think for a moment would still her to a statue. Her eyes wouldn't judge though, no. Her eyes would be full of understanding of what pain and trauma results in such a reflex, she would calmly tell MC "Please believe me when I say this... I would never, ever, raise a hand to you; my love."

Aurelio: Bro stills to a halt and has to Sherlock Holmes style analyze what the actual fuck, just happened. Did you just think...? That he would ever, do that to you? He is honestly more hurt as a result of that reaction; that you would ever, for even a fraction of a second, think he is such a brute. Such a monster, to raise his hand to you. He struggles with being a good man, he really does; but to think you think so little of him in terms of morality? He might tear up just a tad, depending on how much he has opened up to MC about himself. Regardless if MC intended to do so or not, he would walk away and honestly be upset with MC for a good while about this.

Elio: Does not get it sadly, he quickly puts it together that you though he would hit you; but he doesn't get why. He will tell you just as much. "I was just gesturing, why did you flinch?" Absolutely will not drop this subject till you explain it to him, "Did you think I would hit you? Have I ever done so before? Then why did you think I would hit you now? I obviously would not. It was a reflex? A reflex is an involuntary response to a stimulus. I raised my hand and that make you flinch? That would suggest a logical stimuli, I have gestured to you before. I have pointed to things before, I have patted your head before, you never did this before. Why are you doing it now?" He is low key pressed over this, he hides it by trying to appear confused or curious but in reality he is upset because he does not understand. He NEEDS to know why you did that, so he can never do it again. If you get mad over the questions he will surprisingly get mad too, it is jarring because he almost never gets mad. He is upset by this new information and he must understand, you must help him understand.

[madthetruemad]

stubborn heart ch 14

cw ; blood & gore , light smut (dry humping ig)

Your peaceful sleep was interrupted the next morning when you heard something thud hard onto the floorboards. Groggily, you sat up in your bed. The throb in your cunt still very much present as the memories from the night before flashed through your mind and body causing you to clench your thighs together. A part of you still couldn’t believe that Capitano-

“Wife.”

You jumped slightly as Capitano came up to the bed. That thud sound must have been from him, but what was he doing to make that sound? Did he drop something-? You crinkled your nose when a foul stench hit your nostrils. It smelled awful like the starting of decay and fresh blood.

“Capitano, what’s that-,” the words died in your mouth when you finally looked at him. His gloves were soaked in blood, droplets dripping down his talons. Your breath got caught in your throat when he moved aside and showed you what he had dropped onto the floor. When you opened your mouth to scream, no sound came out even as you stared into the eyes of that woman. Her head rested peacefully against the floor, the blood seeping from her neck started to slowly stain the ground, and right next to her tongue was where her tongue laid.

“The- the Tsaritsa- you said she was important to the Tsaritsa-!”

You scrambled to say anything in your panicked state, but Capitano, with a cool head and steady voice gave you all the answers you needed.

“The Tsaritsa has already been informed. The woman was of no use to her anymore, and even if she was the Tsaritsa made it clear that she will not question my … judgement.”

When he took a step towards you, you had gripped at your bed sheets and pushed yourself back until your head met the headboard.

“Father will-“

“She already knows as well and has … accepted this action as an apology for slighting you.”

One of his bloodstained hands reached for the bedsheets and harshly tugged them off revealing your half bare form. Since last night, you nor Capitano put underwear or pants on you, so your cunt was still on full display for him. The thought made you clench your legs together to try and hide from him, but when he pressed a knee down onto the mattress and reached for you, you had no choice but to listen as he pried your legs open.

“Are you not happy, wife?”

His voice lulled you as he pulled you close. His hands forcing your legs to part and straddle his waist as he pushed your bare cunt to his hardened bulge.

“You didn’t have to kill her,” you managed to whisper, “an apology was all I needed-“

When he wrapped your legs around his waist, he lifted one hand towards his face to force his helmet off before fixing his hand back to your thigh, the blood started to stain your skin as he dug his fingers into the fat of your legs.

You winced, “you’re scaring me… husband.”

Your voice was even quieter.

“Scaring you?”

He forced you to look at him. Not at the woman’s head or tongue. Not at the ceiling. And not at the back of your eyelids. But at him.

“I am only doing this for you. To prove that no one else will ever speak to you like that again.”

You shivered – your heart, body, and mind still scrambling for anything to deescalate what was going on. What if he hurt you? “You told me not to expect anything,” you managed to say when he got a better grip on your thighs just to slowly rock them back and forth against him. With each roll of your hips against his bulge made tiny little jolts run through your cunt, making your tight little hole clench involuntarily.

“Then that shall be changed.”

You moaned when he thrusted a little, your breath becoming heavy as he continued to rock you against himself.

“You can expect anything you want from me. All you have to do is ask.”

You whimpered as that familiar feeling rose up within you, the sight of your blissed face sending shivers down his spine as he grunted low. He wanted to finger you open again and watch the way your cunt would swallow his fingers, but he doesn’t want to sully you further with the blood of another.

“Go on,” his voice was low as bent forward to capture your lips, “make a mess on me.”

What you thought was turning into a normal marriage quickly turned into something else. He wouldn’t hurt you, that much you were certain of now, but that didn’t mean he wouldn’t hurt others for you. Even in the midst of your dazed high, you wondered, you wondered if you could turn your fear into something else entirely.

[grimesve1l]

Dessert

Read previous part here

Summary: It's been a while since Rafe decided to change and things couldnt be better for him and Y/n

Warnings: Swearing, suggestiveness, smut (mdni), oral m!receiving, p in v, lowk dom!Rafe, lemme know if i missed any!!

Rafe was woken up out of his sleep by the back of Y/n's hand hitting his head. He moved her hand and looked to see her still fast asleep. "Damn." he said barely awake. Although they'd been living together for a couple weeks at this point he was still getting used to her many quirks. One of which being how much she moved in her sleep.

He looks at the clock on his nightstand and notices it's about time for him to get up. Ever since he got his act together, his life has gotten so much better. He got sober and quit selling which put him in much better standing with his dad. In fact the reason he's getting up so early is because his dad is wants him to come to a meeting regarding the company's next big project.

He also started prioritizing his relationship with Y/n. The night of the kegger he promised himself he would change and be better for her and he's kept good on that promise. Hell, he even tolerates her friendship with the pouges. He's still not a big fan of theirs but as Y/n says he's taking "baby steps".

Rafe had just gotten out of the shower and was grabbing some clothes when he heard a whistle come from behind him. He turns to see Y/n propped up in the bed watching him. "You enjoying the show?" he asks. "Mhm but i'd enjoy it more without the towel." she responds motioning to his waist.

"I bet you would, you freak." he responds jokingly before turning back to his underwear drawer. "I thought you liked me being a freak." she answers, getting out of the bed. She moves to wrap her arms around his waist. "Oh, trust me baby I love you being a freak." he says looking over his shoulder.

She laughs and goes to brush her teeth but not before delivering a swat to Rafes ass. "Hey!" he calls as she giggles on her way to the bathroom.

Rafe had suggested that she quit her job at the country club but she wanted to have something to keep her occupied during the day. Now the two were getting ready to leave and get their day started. They were walking out of the house when Rafe grabbed her arm.

She turns to look at him and he smiles before leaning down and pressing a kiss to her lips. "Have a good day, baby." he says once he pulls away. "You too, love you." she replies. "I love you too." he says as he lets her go. They both get in their respective vehicles and head out.

For Y/n the day went by fast. Being a cart girl has its ups and downs but she can't say she doesn't enjoy it. Rafe on the other hand had mixed feelings about his role in his father's company. He loves that his father trusts him enough to be so involved but he also can't stand the boring meetings and long nights.

Y/n knows this and during her shift she decides that when she gets off she'll rush home so that Rafe can return home to a nice dinner. Once it's time for her to leave she puts her plan into motion. She hurries home and starts cooking.

She gets so occupied on making sure things are right for when she came home that she doesn't notice Rafe's truck pulling in the driveway. When he walks in every thing is exactly how she wanted it except her. She had planned to change into something much nicer than her uniform from the county club but she lost track of time.

She's grabbing plates out of the cabinet when she feels his arms wrap around her waist. She jumps, not expecting it. "When did you get home?" she exclaims. "Just now." he responds laughing at her confused expression. "What's all this?" he asks motioning to the meal Y/n had prepared.

"You've been working so hard lately and I wanted to give you a little surprise." Y/n says with a grin. "Awe thank you baby." Rafe replies pressing a kiss to her head. "Go sit down I'm almost done." she tells him as she ushers him out of the kitchen. "Okay okay." he says putting his hands up and heading to the table.

Y/n finishes cooking and plates the food before she brings it to the table. She sets Rafes plate down in front of him and does the same with hers before she takes a seat. "Oh my God. This is so good babe." Rafe says after taking a bite of his food.

She laughs before thanking him. The two make small talk about their day as they eat their meal. Y/n doesn't miss the way Rafes brow furrows when he talks about how stressful his new position is becoming. Once they finish eating Y/n takes the plates to the kitchen but tells Rafe to stay at the table for dessert.

"Damn, how long were you cooking?" he responds leaning back in his chair. He hears her laugh in response but for some reason she sounds farther away than the kitchen. He waits for a couple minutes before hearing heels approaching the room.

He's confused because he could have swore she was wearing tennis shoes. Suddenly Y/n appears in the door way in the skimpiest lingerie he's ever seen. "What do you think?" she asks walking towards him. He doesn't answer and simply stares at the way the material accentuates the curves of her body.

She makes her way to him and sits in his lap facing him. He puts his hands on her hips as he continues admiring her. "So, this is my dessert?" he asks now letting his hands roam. "Mhm. You like it?" she answers leaning forward so her chest is closer to his face. "Fuck, baby." he says looking down.

She takes this as her queue to connect their lips. He quickly takes control of the kiss as he pulls her head back by her hair. She gasps which gives him the opportunity to thirst his tongue into her mouth. Their tongues tangle together as Y/n begins to grind her hips against him.

He grunts into her mouth as she feels his erection growing under her. He moves his hands to lift her onto the table but she stops him. "Not yet." she says getting off his lap and sinking to her knees in front of him. "Oh shit." he says leaning back realizing what she's about to do.

Y/n unzips Rafes pants and takes his cock out of his boxers. She wraps her hand around it and starts stroking him. As her hand moves up and down she takes his tip in her mouth. She hears Rafes breath catch as she begins to take more of him. She works her way down until his cock hits the back of her throat.

She comes out just for a moment before she returns to her previous actions but this time she starts bobbing her head. He continuously hits the back of her throat as gagging and slobbering sounds can be heard throughout the room. Rafe takes her hair in his hand, making a makeshift ponytail.

He starts thrusting his hips before telling her he won't last much longer. She continues bobbing her head up and down until Rafes hips stop and she feels his release spurt into her mouth. She pulls back before swallowing what's in her mouth and going to like what's left on his cock.

"You look so sexy on your knees like that baby." Rafe says looking down at her. She stands up and gives Rafe a look he knows too well. He quickly stands as well before picking her up and placing her on the table. He pushes anything that could be in the way and gently lays her back.

He spreads her legs and pulls her panties to the side to see her already soaking cunt. "Sucking my dick gets you this wet? Huh?" he asks running his finger through her folds. She only whines in response. He suddenly thrusts a finger into her. "I asked you a question." he says.

"Yes." she cries out as he starts pumping his finger in and out of her as he uses his thumb to play with her clit. He reaches up to pull her tits out of the lacy bra she's wearing. "You want me to fuck you?" he asks speeding up his hand. Once again Y/n can't respond. This time he takes her nipple and pinches it enough to bring her back.

"Answer me, Y/n." he says. "Yes, I want you to fuck me." she responds desperately. "Was that so hard?" Rafe responds as he pulls his finger out and lines his dick up. He slowly inches in until he's halfway. He pauses to look her in the eyes before he thrusts all the way in. This makes Y/n cry out as Rafe begins rapidly thrusting into her.

He takes her legs and pulls her so that her ass is hanging off the table and he's supporting her. He continues thrusting as he takes his hand and begins playing with her clit again. "I don't know how much I can take." she says as she lays on the table helplessly. "You can take it baby." he tells her.

Soon his thrusts get sloppier and he knows he's about to cum again. "Cum inside me." she tells him. "What?" he answers, thinking he heard her wrong. "I got on the pill just please cum inside me." she responds. This is all it takes for Rafe to speed back up. Rafe cums first and Y/n follows soon after.

He maneuvers her so she's back on the table and he leans against it. He pulls out and watches as his cum drips out onto the floor. "Rafe?" she calls out to him. "Yeah?" he responds. "Can you help me take this off. I have a wedgie and I can't feel my legs right now." she tells him.

He laughs before agreeing. He decides to carry her to their bedroom where he helps her get out of the lingerie and they get cleaned up. After they clean up they decide to lay down for the night. As they lay back in bed Y/n asks about the mess in the dining room.

Rafe tells her he'll take care of it tomorrow before pulling her closer. The mess can wait. Right now all he wants to do is hold his perfect girl.

A/n: this was supposed to be fluff. idk what happened but I hope y'all liked it anyway! Also this may be the last part of the barry's cousin!reader series, i'm not sure yet but lemme know if y'all want more!!<3

[uluvjay]

Risky Business-K. Guhle

Kaiden Guhle x Fem! Xhekaj reader

In which you calling Kaiden to pick you when your friends ditch you turns into more then you could’ve ever expected..

Warnings?; SMUT, protected sex, pretty much public sex, bar scene, kissing, cursing, reader has shit friends, brothers best friend!, mentions of anxiety and getting caught, sorry if I missed any errors!!

Kaiden wasn’t to surprised to see your name pop up on his screen, you two were friends because of your brother but you didn’t text all that often.

But when he saw what you were asking he truly had no surprise in his body as he read the words that your friends had left you and you were drunk and alone at the bar.

He already had your location from the last time he had to pick you up from the club when your friends abandoned you so he sent a quick ‘Omw’ and was out the door.

Pulling up to the bar fifteen minutes he was lucky to find a close parking spot before hopping out and making his way inside.

His eyes instantly found your body sitting at the bar your hair curled just the way he liked with that little dress hugging your body.

Hearing the stool next to you pull out your head shot up a look of relief filling your face at the sight of Kaiden.

“What happened birthday girl? Where are all your friends.” He asked softly.

You took a moment to look over his appearance, it was clear he’d been lounging around his apartment by the hoodie and joggers he sported, he didn’t have a hat on for once letting his blonde hair fall freely over his forehead.

he looked so pretty

“They left me..again” you mumbled staring down at your drink pitifully.

You heard him order a glass of whiskey before he replied, “Where’d they go this time?”

Sadly this wasn’t the first time your so called friends had left you on a night out only this time it happened to be your birthday celebration.

Typically they’d find hot guys and it wouldn’t take long for them to be dishing you a goodbye and following them out the door and into the back of an Uber.

The first few times it happened you called your older brother to come and get you but after the third time and a scolding you knew it was better not to.

So that’s where Kaiden came in, he was close to Arber so he was close to you. He always seemed to be around and you would be lying if you said you didn’t have a crush on the defenseman.

So when your brother said if he had to rescue you from an abandoned night one more time then he’d take your phone and block your so called friends you started calling Kaiden and he always came.

“Same as always, some guys were flirting with them and they went home with them.” You shrugged finally giving him your eyes.

“But it’s your birthday, they left just like that?” He questioned.

“Their excuse was that my actual birthday isn’t till tomorrow and they’d make sure to make it up to me.” You laughed at their pathetic excuse.

Kaiden shook his head at your words, he hated how they treated you but it wasn’t his place to tell you what to do or who to be friends with.

Only thing he could do was try to make the rest of the night fun for you and that’s what he planned on doing.

Checking his watch he saw it was 11pm on the dot, meaning he had an hour to make sure you started your birthday off right.

“Come on, let’s go play a round of pool” he spoke as he stood up holding a hand out for you.

“I don’t know how to play.” You laughed.

“I’ll teach you.” He shrugged before downing the rest of his drink and ordering a beer for himself and a Shirley temple for you.

Twenty minutes later Kaiden found out you weren’t lying when you said you were bad, the table was scratched from your endless misses and he could see the frustration growing on your face.

No matter how many tips or tricks he offered they weren’t helping, you still couldn’t get a good grip on the pool stick and your aim was awful.

“Here, let me show you.” He laughed setting his drink down and moving behind you.

His hand stilled as he reached for the stick, should he get this close? Were you okay with him getting this close?

“If you don’t mind.” He added nervously.

“I don’t mind, I need all the help I get. I’m embarrassing myself here.” You huffed in reply looking around the somewhat filled bar.

Kaiden took a step closer, chest pressed up against your back as he instructed you to grab the pool stick.

“Okay you need to bend yourself at an angle, wanna be able to see the ball and where you’re aiming.” He spoke softly.

You did as he said bending over so you were closer to the table but from the soft laugh behind you something told you that you were still wrong.

“No, like this.”

Kaiden didn’t think about it when his hands pulled at your hips, pulling you back slightly before pressing your lower back so you weren’t as stiff.

Your breath hitched at the touch, this felt very intimate and you hated how your body tingled from his touch.

What you weren’t ready for was his body to bend with yours, his face inches from your ear as his hand moved up to cup yours on the pool stick.

“Still okay?” He questioned.

“Mhm”

Your brain was jumping at the contact of his calloused hands, his warm body pressed against yours in a way that would send your brother into shock.

“And then you wanna pull ba-Are you even listening?” He chuckled, the sound sending a wave of heat through your body.

He could see the apples of your cheeks tint red at his words, he wasn’t dumb he felt the way your body reacted to his, the little sounds that left your mouth when he pressed up against you.

“Yeah, of course I am” you scoffed but he could hear the nerves in your voice.

“You sure?”

He was closer this time, much closer. Your eyes meeting his as he moved his body up more this time positioning himself next to you.

You couldn’t help the way your eyes traveled from his eyes to his lips, they were temping, light pink and plump begging to be tinted red from your lipstick.

Kaiden caught your eyes and he’d be lying if he said the same thoughts weren’t running through his mind. He was itching to see how you looked with swollen lips and blown out eyes, his hand around your throat as he kissed you like there was no tomorrow.

“Fuck it” he mumbled.

You didn’t get a chance to reply before his lips were on yours, his hands pulling you up and pressing your chest to his. The kiss was filthy, you wasted no time to respond to his desperate movements.

He groaned softly as your fingers tangled into his hair at the nape of his neck, his large hands tight against your waist as your lips moved in tandem.

He finally pulled away when he needed air, both of you panting as your eyes locked and you thought about your actions.

“My brother-“

“Doesn’t have to know.” He finished for you.

Arber not know you just kissed his best friend? Not know that you had feelings for the blonde? The man you lived with who happened to live the floor below Kaiden.

“But-“

“No buts, you always put everyone before yourself and I’m tired of standing back and watching it. Let me show you how important you are, how much you deserve to be loved and taken care of..please.” He cut you off, blue eyes pleading with you to give him a chance.

“Okay..but if he finds out you’re the one that’s dealing with him.” You spoke.

“Deal.” He laughed bringing you in for another kiss this one much hotter then the first, his hands roaming this time running under the hem of your dress cupping your ass.

“We can’t do this here” you shuddered the feeling of his hands had the throb between your thighs growing.

Kaiden knew he wasn’t going to make it home, and while he wasn’t one for public sex he knew he had to have you now.

“Come with me.” He pulled you behind him.

You followed him silently as he walked you two towards the restaurant part of the bar which was now closed at the late hour.

He looked around not seeing a soul in sight he was quick to pull you behind a tall wall, pinning you against the host stand you stood at only a few hours earlier.

“Kaiden! What if someone sees.” You panicked looking around for anyone that could see.

“Baby the restaurant has been closed for hours, nobody is over here anymore we’re okay.” He reassured you, his lips moving to your neck.

“You sure?”

“Positive.” He nodded lips working over your sensitive skin kissing down to the top of your breasts that showed through the top.

You whimpered when he found your sweet spot his mouth sucking on the skin as one of his skilled hands trailed down your body and under your dress.

Your body shuddered at the feeling of his touch, his middle finger running over the lace of your panties before pulling them down.

You stepped out of the material whimpering as he stuffed them into his back pocket, he shot you a cocky wink before he was rolling your dress up giving him a view of your dripping cunt.

“So wet for me baby.” He cooed, fingers running through your folds as he prepped you to take his cock.

“Kaiden” you panted, hands gripping his hoodie for stability as pleasure spread through your body. A hot fire began burning your skin as his continued to work you open.

His lips swallowed yours when he slipped one inside of you, careful to mask your noises so nobody caught on to what was happening if they did happen to overhear.

You shook against him as he pumped his finger in and out, adding a second when he felt you were ready for more of him.

“Please..” you weren’t sure what exactly you were even begging for, you just knew you needed more-more of him.

“Please what baby?”

“Fuck me, please Kaiden. I need it.” You begged him hands reaching for the drawstring of his joggers.

“It is my birthday after all.” You added with a pleading look.

Kaiden picked up his free hand to look at his wrist, the heavy metal read 11:35 meaning you had 25 more minutes before it was really your birthday.

“Still got 25 minutes baby, but you’ve had a bad night so I’ll be nice.” He smirked.

You hated how empty and cold you felt when he removed his fingers and stepped back to grab his wallet from his pocket.

You watched as he pulled out the little gold packet before pulling his pants and boxers down just enough for his cock to spring free.

Your mouth watered at the sight of him, his mushroom head cock red and glistening with precum, you couldn’t help yourself as you reached out to stroke him softly spreading the cum down his shaft.

“Oh fuck” he gulped at the feeling your soft hand wrapping around him.

You took the condom from him stretching the latex over his thick cock watching with need as it hugged him perfectly.

“Turn around pretty girl.” He said, his tone commanding.

You did as he said bracing yourself against the wooden stand waiting for him as he spread your legs and positioned himself.

He didn’t waste anytime, his hips pressing forward as he slid his cock inside you. His strong hands gripping your hips as he got his pace steady.

Fuck he was big

Your hand shot up to cover your mouth as he pulled back and pushed himself into you again, this time bottoming out as his cock hit that sweet spot inside you.

He couldn’t help letting out a quiet moan himself when your body locked up around him, his grip on your hips tightening as he gave both of you a second.

That didn’t last very long before he pulled out again this time setting a fast pace his cock splitting you open as you hung onto the stand for dear life.

You did your absolute best to remain quiet, eyes clenched shut as you put all your focus on not letting the entire place hear how good he was making you feel.

“That’s it baby.” He muttered to himself, “taking it so fucking good.”

Your pussy fluttered at his words, each stroke of his cock was hitting you just right never failing to miss your sweet spot. Every nerve in your body on fire from the way he was fucking you, it was addictive, you were desperate for anything he was willing to give you.

You gasped when one of his arms hooked around you middle, pulling you flush against his chest as his thrusts somehow went even faster.

“Feel good baby?” He hummed in your ear, lips moving down your body in hot wet kisses, teeth nipping your skin in all the right places.

Feel good? It felt fucking amazing, your whole body felt like it was going to explode by the way he fucked you.

“Yes!, god yes. Feels so fucking good.” You whimpered voice barely there your nails dug into the cotton covering his arm as you held on for support.

Kaiden could feel your walls hugging him with each thrust, your orgasm no doubt closing in but he never let up. His thrusts were strong, each stroke more precise than the last.

His pace was punishing as he held you pinned to him, one of his large hands gripping your throat as he turned your face to pull you into a hot kiss.

It was all teeth and tongue, hot and sloppy as he fought you for dominance that you quickly gave up.

Your body was clenching him so tight as the pressure in your lower stomach built, it was all consuming, clouding your brain to the point it was all you could think about.

Him, it was all Kaiden, the way he touched you, kissed you, held you, fucked you.

This was an addiction you’d never come back from and you didn’t mind, not one bit.

“Go ahead baby, come for me. Show me what the birthday girl has been keeping from me.”

And with that your whole body tensed, the band in your lower stomach bursting as you came all over the condom. His hand shot from your throat to cover your mouth as you moaned into the skin at the overwhelming feeling.

His arm around your body tightening to help keep you standing as your legs shook, almost to the point of giving out as he continued to pound into you.

It wasn’t to long after your climax that Kaiden came himself, a deep guttural groan coming from him as he fucked you through his high.

You both panted breathlessly as you came back down to earth, both of your minds clouded with a post sex haze.

He rested you against the host stand as he pulled out of your dripping cunt, pulling the condom off and tying it he was quick to pull his pants up and your dress back down.

He couldn’t help himself when he smirked at your dazed expression when you turned to face him, eyes glossy, cheeks rosy, mascara slightly smeared from the tear tracks that stained your face.

He pulled you in for a kiss, this one much sweeter then any of the other ones you shared so far tonight, his hand cupping your cheek softly.

“Happy birthday pretty girl.” He smiled when he pulled back.

“Best birthday ever.” You cheesed back.

“Yeah?”

“Definitely.” You nodded in confirmation.

Kaiden was happy that he could end your awful night on a good note, happy that you were giving him a chance to show you a love you deserved.

“Wanna go back to mine?” He asked.

“Yes, I need out of these heels.” You groaned.

“Come on, let’s go get you into bed.” He smiled picking you up off your feet and carrying you to his car.

You knew you’d have to tell Arber eventually but right now that wasn’t on your mind, right now the only thing you were thinking about was how lucky you were to have Kaiden in your life.

-

[thelonestarinthesky]

⁷. ᵍᵒᵒᵈᵇʸᵉ ᶠᵒʳ ⁿᵒʷ

⁺₊✦₊　

pairing: senku x f!reader

chapter 7 of 2/2- i.senku

cw: implied nudity and sex (no smut yet sadly)

a/n: next chapter will be the last of Senku's memories of reader. like I said on ao3, reader reminds me of the dead wife haunting the narrative, always brought up but not present.

masterlist / playlist

⁺₊✦₊　　

Senku woke up from the best sleep he'd ever had. Was he maybe exaggerating? Probably.

His hand was softly holding onto something soft and warm. He couldn't help but smile from just remembering what happened last night.

Wanting to keep sleeping with the girl in his arms, burying his face back in her hair. He let out a groan when [Name] moved slightly to turn and look up at him, forcing his hand to hold onto her hip instead.

He opens one eye to look down at her, only to blush slightly and close his eyes again.

"....stop looking at me with those eyes." He says muffled, clearly flustered by the way she stared up at him.

"You dazzle me, what can I say?"

She giggles at this, burying her face in his chest. "...now you're embarrassed, but the way you were last night was totally different." [Name] says teasingly. "Was it really Senku doing all those things, or was it a mimic?"

She lets out a squeal as she feels his lips bite down on her shoulder, his fingers tickling her side as she tries to get away from him.

"...you think if Byakuya was here, would he storm into your room without knocking and find us like this?" [Name] asked, sitting up to stretch only to curl back into his arms.

Senku hums quietly. "10 billion percent he would scold us for not using protection." He says, shrugging his shoulders nonchalantly.

"Scold you, maybe; he has a soft spot for me." He rolls his eyes when she says this while grinning at him happily, poking his cheek playfully.

"Someone's too proud to admit he's jealous." The girl lets out a laugh as he pushes her hand away before setting down again.

Sighing peacefully, she closes her eyes. "I was thinking of finishing my education at your school." She confesses. "It would be nice if I experienced high school life before becoming an adult."

Senku thinks that ever since she came back and stayed over 3 years ago, she didn't return to school and instead went back to homeschooling due to her illness. "You are taking your medicine, right? I don't want you to go back to the hospital for serious treatment again." He says, scolding her as he pinches her cheek, making her whine in protest.

"You need to get better," he says quietly.

After putting on some clothes, Senku pulled [Name] to his science room, hands intertwined tightly. The room was still filled with many science things, but the one thing that never changed or moved was the telescope in front of the window and the little robot Senku sitting on the frame of the window.

[Name] walked up to it, "You still have this?" She asked, poking it. She couldn't help but wonder why he even kept a clearly poor-built robot she did when she was a kid.

"Obviously, it was the first gift you gave me besides your allowance card." He says plainly as he walks over to a box on his desk.

[Name] was too busy examining the old robot, looking it over as an idea came to her, smiling at it.

Senku stood behind her, holding something in his hands. Clearing his throat, she turns around only to be met with a bouquet of blue roses; she's in awe.

"It's for you." He says, flustered, a blush on his cheeks as [Name] happily accepts the flowers.

"They're so beautiful." She says bashfully, looking down at them, smiling.

His heart skips a beat at this, seeing his girl look so happy to receive anything he gives her.

"Well, of course, it's nothing special. Just roses soaking up blue food coloring dye." He says, talking [Name]'s ear off. The girl just smiled even more at this, watching as he spoke about the science behind it.

Normally, Senku, when he's nervous, would talk and talk, which she found cute. He wasn't a very expressive person, but he could separate his feelings and logic so she could read him easily.

With Senku being too shy, his gaze averted to the side, she took this opportunity. Gently settling down the bouquet of the blue roses on his desk, she quietly goes back over to him and hugs him tightly.

He relaxes as soon as she does so, her face buried in his chest. "Thank you." She says as his arms wrap around her waist.

Leaning up, she gives him a kiss before pulling back as soon as he tries to deepen it. "I wonder how you're not sick of me yet." [Name] teases, giving him a grin before letting a muffled squeal as Senku cuts her off, smashing his lips against hers.

After making out for minutes, he pulls back, panting heavily, grinning down at her. "You can't just tease me like that when you're only wearing my shirt."

[Name] flushes red at this and feels one of his hands sliding down to cup her ass as the kiss deepens once more.

Letting a surprised gasp as she feels Senku gently lead her to the floor, blushing furiously. "Seriously?! In here?" She says, embarrassed. He gives her a wicked grin, making her heart beat rapidly.

"Yeah, in here." He says, leaning in once more.

࿐⸻༺ ෆ ༻⸻࿐

[Name] sat beside him, Yuzuriha, and Taiju in front of them. The four were in a cafe; the girls were busy eating their sweets while Taiju was debating on which one to eat, and Senku was scrolling on his phone.

[Name] was set to graduate in a couple of months, plus their anniversary was coming up soon, and he never failed to at least gift her something he'd make with his hands and science.

Like him, she keeps all the gifts he makes for her in her closet, specifically for his gifts. Rich people...

Scrolling on his phone, he looks up upon noticing [Name], holding out a fork with a piece of cake for him. Leaning in and eating it, she smiles before continuing to talk to Yuzuriha, who clearly wants to do the same with Taiju but is too shy to do so.

His brows furrow up in seeing an article, getting [Name]'s attention; she leans on his shoulder to see what he's looking at.

Her expression changes slightly, and he notices. "I'll tell you in private." She mouths to him before kissing his cheek to make sure Yuzuriha and Taiju don't notice her mood change completely.

After studying and chatting, the couple waved at their friends as they went their separate ways.

"Rumors are going around about my position as the heir. I'm sure you remember back at my 15th birthday party, the son of the Nanami Conglomerate." She says sternly, despite being carefree and like any teenager her age. She still had her serious moments when involving her connection to the business world.

"He proposed marriage between us once I turned 18. Saying it would benefit mine and his family, which is true to some degree." Senku sees that distant look in her eyes again and takes her hand, intertwining their fingers softly.

"But that article, it said the [L/n] company is being involved in a highly classified project," she held up her hand that he wasn't holding.

"... someone must have leaked it..."

"I've seen it once when my father took me to where they're working on it." She says. "It's shaped like...."

She thinks for a bit before talking again. "A trefoil knot." Senku raises a brow at this. Such a strange design for this? He wonders why.

"It's really small, maybe like the palm of your hand." She raises his hand so she can replicate what she's talking about. "It's strange, though. Why would my father take place in this project? Normally, he would invest in the next big technology; making sentient robots is what he's trying to do. Why work on something so small?" She ponders before something catches her eye.

Quickly looking to the side, where she saw a flicker of light, she didn't find anything out of the ordinary.

"Anyways, I want you to keep this between us. If it's this serious, I'll tell you once I learn more." She promises. "I do have a good memory, remember?" Teasing him a bit.

He nods, "Let's go home. We have school tomorrow."

The two walk home, playfully arguing between themselves, but Senku can't help but feel like someone is watching them.

࿐⸻༺ ෆ ༻⸻࿐

[Name] was acting strange days before the accident, often looking around, almost paranoid but never said anything to him. Clearly, he did not want to worry him.

And that's what he regrets the most in the modern world. If he had tried to at least convince [Name] to stay at his house instead of letting her go to a business meeting with her dad.

The car accident wouldn't have happened, which would have led to [Name] staying in the hospital for days.

Only to receive heart-retching news from Byakuya, who held a box in his hands, breaking the news to Senku.

"[Name] told me to give this to you." He spoke very softly to the white-green-haired boy, who blinked slowly; Senku was getting ready to go see [Name] like he'd done since she'd been admitted to the hospital.

Confused, Senku grabs the box only to flinch when he feels how heavy it is. "What the hell is it?" He says. "No way [Name] carried this heavy thing around."

Opening the box, he peeks inside to find what looks like a minimized-sized doll that shares [Name]'s appearance.

"A doll?" He mumbles even more confused. Only to be speechless when the doll slowly opened its eyes to look up at him.

"Leek." It says proudly, which makes Senku's eye twitch. This thing is one billion percent made by [Name]. He thinks to himself.

Byakuya places a hand on his head, which makes the red-eyed boy look at him confused.

It was February 2nd when [Name] had fallen in a coma.

taglist- @frootloopscos @itsnotsh1v4n1 @lovingyeet @kazuubaby @awwwia @foulbreadpaenut @verysanebsdfan @the-wild-tomato @copycat-namjesus @arimakanav @cchuisme

[hedawanheda]

Hi! Don't know if you've seen the little 10 years of clexa kisses thread going on? Writers posting their favorite kisses from their own works

I would love to see your favorite kisses that you've written! Or any new ones yoi may have 👀

OOOH I LOVE THIS!!

First kisses are always my favorite to write, so apologies that most of these are first kisses lol

answer under cut! one for each story where they already kissed (sorry, ‘no body no crime’ and ‘hold my crown (while i go down),’ you’ll get your moments!). Link to the stories in title

8. The Babysitter

mutual pining/high school crush au that was so fun to write!

“Hey, Lexa?”

“Yes?”

“Can I kiss you?”

“Can you- what?” Lexa was taken aback. She had to make sure she heard that correctly.

“Can I kiss you?” Clarke asks again, calmly. “You don’t have to say yes,”

“I…” Lexa falters, at a loss for words. She couldn’t think straight, not with the way Clarke was looking at her with those eyes and that lip bite. God, Lexa wanted to bite it herself.

Clarke suddenly looks embarrassed, sitting up on the bed. “Um. Sorry. I don’t know why I asked that. That was weird. Forget-“

“You can,” Lexa blurts out, Clarke’s mouth still open mid sentence. “Kiss me, I mean. If you still want to. Thank you for asking, by the way. Consent is always a good thing-“

“And you call me the dork,” Clarke grins as she pushes forward, wrapping her arms around Lexa’s neck and brings her in for a kiss.

7. More Than That

friends to lovers!! secret mutual pining!! ugh love it

“I love you,” she whispered quietly. She searched Lexa’s face for any reaction, to which she found none. She felt her heart crack. “I’m sorry. I ruined it. Please forget that I said anything. Better yet, forget that you’ve ever known me. Just throw your entire memory aw-“

Clarke shut up because Lexa decided to kiss her. It wasn’t like the ones when others were around, no. This one was slower, and softer. Lexa’s lips moved with a purpose, gently pressing against Clarke’s as if she was going to break her. She pulled away moments later, gazing into Clarke’s eyes.

“You just kissed me,” Clarke said blankley. “Why did you do that?

Lexa grinned, biting her lip. “Because I’ve loved you since we were thirteen, you dope”

6. The Lighthouse

the little mermaid first kiss to get your voice back. sucker for this

She decided to take the leap. Her head moved down swiftly, connecting her lips to Clarke’s.

Her body tingled with warmth, Clarke’s lips soft against her own. She felt hands on the back of her neck, pulling her closer. Lexa’s brain felt like it was exploding. Clarke pulled back, before tilting her head and going back in. This felt right. Lexa’s gay brain turned into a pile of mush.

“Finally,”

Lexa agreed, smiling as she kissed Clarke again, and again, and again. It took a minute for her to register that that word was spoken out loud.

Lexa pulled back. Surely she imagined that, right? She looked at Clarke, whose lips were kiss-swollen and hair mussled. Clarke smiled at her widely and nodded, signalling that Lexa did not imagine that.

“Hi,” Clarke said, clear as a bell. Lexa’s mouth dropped open in pure shock. “I love you,”

5. you belong with me

my taylor swift au where Lexa professed her love to clarke on Jimmy Fallon so Clarke flies to new york to see her immediately after and they kiss in the rain

Clarke was overcome with emotion. Every one of Lexa’s songs were about her and her love for her. Clarke couldn’t help the huge smile that appeared on her face before she closed the distance between her and Lexa to meet the girl in a heated kiss. She kissed Lexa with all the passion she could muster, wanting to show the girl how much she meant to her and how touched she was from last night’s interview. Clarke swiped her tongue across Lexa’s bottom lip, asking for entrance which she was soon granted, Lexa’s tongue shyly meeting hers. They kissed in the middle of the New York rainstorm, and to Clarke, it was perfect.

4. for the love of the gods

this one’s good cause lexa is supposed to be a celibate priestess and patron goddess clarke’s like NOT ON MY WATCH

Lexa felt a hand at the back of her neck and then the next thing she knew the stranger attached her lips to Lexa, surprising the priestess in more ways than one.

You need to stop this Lexa thought to herself, trying not to think of the softness and sweetness of the girl’s lips. You made a vow, this isn’t right

“You’re overthinking this,” the girl murmured against Lexa’s lips. “Stop. Just for once, don’t think,”

You didn’t have to tell Lexa twice.

She kissed back like it was her last time (because it might be) and she felt the girl grin, satisfied that Lexa decided to give in. The girl swiped her tongue across Lexa’s bottom lip, asking for entrance that was soon granted by the brunette The girl’s hands threaded through Lexa’s hair, messing up the intricate braids that adored her hair, but Lexa didn’t care. She never knew kissing could feel this good.

3. So High School

I love this one cause Clarke thinks the kisses mean they’re best friends🤣 come on girl

“Well, Ontari is a second-year senior who probably takes steroids, and you’re just a scrawny sophomore,” Clarke smirks jokingly as she hooks her fingers in the collar of Lexa’s shirt. “Don’t worry, babe. You’ll hit puberty someday,”

She leans forward to kiss Lexa, the brunette’s eyes fluttering closed when she feels Clarke’s lips meet hers. God, kissing Clarke had to be her favorite thing in the whole world.

“You’re your own harshest critic,” Clarke whispers as she pulls away, letting go of her hold on Lexa’s shirt collar and clasping the girl’s hands in her own. “Let me be your biggest cheerleader,”

2. secret recipe

first kiss for the helpless gay chef and idiot bisexual heiress

“It doesn’t have to mean anything,” Clarke continues when there’s a lack of response from Lexa. It doesn’t have to, but I want it to. I want it to mean everything.

“Clarke…” Lexa’s heart is pounding so hard she fears it may burst out of her chest. “Are you sure?”

More sure than anything.

“Yes,” Clarke answers instead, surging forward to connect their mouths in a soft kiss.

Clarke feels her heart exploding the moment their lips touched, and she melts into the kiss. Kissing Lexa felt different than kissing anyone else, but in the best way possible. It felt right. Like Clarke finally unlocked the secret to happiness, and it was kissing Lexa Woods.

1. royally screwed

as if anyone is surprised 😂 not their first kiss but the first one with ~feelings~

“It comes from a Norse myth,” Lexa tells her wife, her palms suddenly becoming sweaty. “You see, the son of Odin and Frigg, Baldur, started to have dreams of his death, so Frigg made all of the things on earth promise to not hurt her son. He was now said to be invincible, so the other gods took joy in throwing things at him.” Lexa was staring up at the mistletoe, avoiding Clarke’s eyes. “The mischief god, Loki, was jealous of how popular Baldur was, so he searched far and wide for something that could kill Baldur. He found out Frigg forgot a simple but deadly plant: mistletoe,”

“So he fashioned a spear with the mistletoe and convinced a blind god to throw it at Balder. Once the spear hit him, he died. Heartbroken, Frigg now made it a rule that mistletoe would be used for love, and that whenever someone encounters it they show an act of love; that’s why we kiss underneath it,” Lexa took this chance to look at Clarke, who was listening intently. Her bright blue eyes were staring at Lexa in wonder, causing the brunette to realize what her wife might think she implied.

“But um,” Lexa stumbled over her words. “That’s just a superstition. An old wives tale. It doesn’t mean we have to-“

“Lexa?” Clarke interrupted softly, a bemused look on her face. “Are you going to kiss me?”

Lexa felt her mouth go dry. Her eyes widened as she but her bottom lip nervously. “Am I allowed to?”

Clarke smirked as her eyes twinkled. “Come here,” she said, cupping Lexa’s face as she stepped closer and pressed her lips to her wife’s.

This kiss felt different.

It wasn’t at all like the two passionless ones they shared on their wedding day, it was soft. Innocent. A confirmation of the feelings that both of them had. Clarke felt her already flushed cheeks burn and her stomach swoop as Lexa’s plush lips moved lightly against hers, the feeling setting her on fire.

It wasn’t their first kiss, but it should have been.

[rafesbabygirlx]

Hi angels (this is gonna be long)

I ramble because when I feel big feels I don't think straight, but please read 🤍

I'm posting this now because I just need to get it out. This has been weighing heavily on me. But I doubt anyone will read it hahah

This is really hard for me to say, but after a lot of thought, I’ve decided to wrap up some things I have left, complete some more requests and step back from writing anything new—at least for now.

I’ve been contemplating this for a while, trying to push past the feeling, but I’ve reached a point where I can’t ignore it anymore. Writing has been such a joy for me, and I’ve loved being part of this little community. You all welcomed me with open arms, and I can’t express how much that means to me.

Honestly, I don’t think I’m in the right mental space for it right now. As much as I love creating, I’ve found myself constantly doubting my work, comparing my writing to others and thinking that I can do so much better, and overthinking every detail. It’s a cycle I’ve fallen into on my own, and it’s taken a toll. On top of that, I feel like my blog has lost some of its spark, and my writing isn’t going anywhere and not growing. I’ve also gotten some nasty anons the past few weeks that I ignore but they still haven’t helped with my thoughts. 🫠

With my final semester of college also weighing on me, everything feels like it’s piling up. So, I think I just need a short break. Ew I feel like I sound so insecure. I think I’m just too hard on myself, especially when I get overwhelmed and burnt out.

I feel really guilty stepping away after working so hard to build this space and gaining so much support. The last thing I want is to let anyone down. But right now, this is what I need.

Please stick with me and don't forget me.

That said, I truly love being here, and I don’t think I can stay away for too long. Honestly, I might still post every now and then if I feel inspired. I also won’t be going completely dark - I want to stay engaged and continue supporting the amazing people I’ve met here. I’d love for my moots to keep me updated on their posts, and I’ll still be around to chat.

Sorry if none of this makes sense. I really hate that I've gotten to this point. I still have some things I want to complete and then I plan to take some time off from writing. But I will be around. We can still interact. I don't want to completely lose what I have here. 🤍

I want to go through some more requests and I have a couple of parts left of The Pen Pal. I like to finish what I’ve started and I’m committed to that. I'm posting this and I have a couple of drafts ready to post tonight and then going to take a break for a day or 2 after posting this (because I feel awful and I want to avoid it)

I’m hoping that this will bring me some relaxation but I’m also hoping it will bring me some inspiration too. I have a series I’d love to restart and a lovely anon gave me a great idea for a JJ AU I’d love to do at some point. I hope those ideas would excite you just as much too.

I think right now it will just be a couple of weeks off just from writing. To refresh, heal my mind, and finally breathe. I’ve already expressed it slightly in some posts but I’ve been really thinking about it.

I already can’t wait to be back because this community has been so good to me. I appreciate every single one of you. What’s that corny saying? It’s not goodbye it’s see you later? I love you guys, and I’ll make another post when I officially take my break.

I HOPE THIS MAKES SENSE. IT ALL DOES IN MY HEAD. JUST A LITTLE BAD AT EXPRESSING MYSELF.

I wanna thank everyone who has supported my writings and I LOVE every single one of you.

I also wanna thank some of my moots! You all have helped me incredibly since I've joined. You're all so kind hearted and probably the best group of people I've ever connected with on the internet. I’m still here so please don’t stop tagging me or reaching out, I’ll still support all of you when I’m on a break. Forgive me if I'm forgetting anyone- not really thinking right now. But this goes for all my moots. 🤍

@rafesheaven @cameronsprincess @inthelibrarybtw @littlelamy @leather-n-velvet @writingroom21 @ivysprophecy @maybejj @rafescokewhore @nemesyaaa @rafescvntyclubgf @angelicameron @tanjamikaelson @starkeynation @quinnsbabygirl @frankoceanluvr11 @httpsdrewstarkey @v3n1ce-bxtch @zyafics @whytheylosttheirminds @rafesbuzzcutseason @maybankslover

[starrysturns]

a slight princess problem

it had been a few days now. two, maybe three. you had lost track. giving up the counting with each sunset you could see from the little window of the room you were being held in. you had managed to make a little cozy area for yourself. a corner away from the door, barricaded with boxes that would sometimes fall over when the ship would go over a harsh wave.

thankfully, this wasn't the worst captive situation you could've been in. they were at least feeding you, so it wasn't totally awful. you pulled the flimsy sheet over your head, the thunder being too loud for you to fall into a peaceful slumber. 

you heard the door creek open, followed by the sound of footsteps before it shut. the person was still in the room with you. holding a lantern before they sat down right across from you. 

“pssst, you awake?” the voice was grumbly, tired and feminine. you slowly peeked out from your cover, your eyes meeting hers. she was pretty. her hair mid neck length, eyes brown like your stuffed bear at home that you were really starting to miss, and pink lips like a rose.

the sight of you peeking made a small smile spread across her lips before she put her hands up, a show of surrender that you deemed good enough before sitting up. “can't sleep?” she asked you. you shook your head, your eyes glancing down. 

the girl understood you, nodding with a hum. “me either. i can never sleep during storms. always scared of going under, and the thunder just reminds me of a warning.” you glanced back up at her, your lips pursed as you tried to understand what she meant. “a warning?” you asked. “yeah.” she said, like it was the most obvious thing in the world, but your puzzled expression showed her you had no idea what she meant. “i mean, it's like the sea warns us- sees us as a threat to its waters so it tries to keep us off. scaring us off with violent waters and the sounds of thunder.” 

“so why be on the water then?” you asked, your curiosity getting the better of you. she hummed, looking around the ship like she expected the room to answer for her before shrugging. “i’ve always loved the sea.” she answered simply. 

“me too.” your somber response made her  eyebrows quirk up. “really? the sea isn't normally the scene for a royal, no offense.”

“none taken. just had a love for it ever since i was a kid.” you paused, a small smile on your lips as you remembered all the times you would sneak out the castle and sit by the stone steps where your home met the sea. “i always dreamed of being able to tour it just- not like this.” your expression turning sad as you talked about your hopes- it set the girl off in a way. frowning for a split second before abruptly standing up, her expression unreadable. “i should go- don't want anyone to see me missing from my quarters. thank you for talking with me.” she left the lantern on the side of you, “keep this with you. some light may help you sleep.” her voice was soft and she sent you a small smile before walking out. 

her swift exit left you puzzled, did you say something to piss her off? you sighed, shrugging it off before laying back down, your eyes up on the ceiling as you slowly were finally able to fall asleep, the sound of the waves and the flame in the lantern turning a cold and unsettling ambience calm. 

.

matt stood outside the room from where you were staying, he had heard the entire interaction you had with his fellow pirate. when he heard the door shuffle he quickly got up from against it, he was soaked from the rain but stared at the girl leaving your room. his eyes narrowed into a glare and arms crossed. 

“if you're going to lecture me for talking to the princess, you’re wasting your breath.” she said, meeting matt’s stern glare with her own. 

“i’m not.” he huffed, “you're a capable girl, i know that gracie. is she awake?” he asked. 

“she was when i went in there. you should leave her alone though.” gracie moved away from the door, her hands falling to her side, “she's not in a great mood.”

“i’m not surprised.” matt grumbled out. “it’s not her fault.” gracie bit out, “she didn't ask to be kidnapped by us.” matt rolled his eyes, “oh god, not this again.” he looked at her, “look i saw a job opportunity i took it. it’s not that different from you and tucker.” 

“the difference with me and tucker is, i didn't kidnap him. he needed help and i did it with the help of my crew, and later on he became part of that very crew.” her voice was level, despite the anger matt could see building up in her. 

“you’re an idiot! putting us all in danger so you can live out some job you think is well planned-” “it is well planned-” she cut off matt, “no its not. you kidnapped the princess, you think the royal family will give us money for it but i think we’ll all end up locked in the farthest jail cell they have in the dungeon.” 

there was a long pause as matt processed her words, the rain pattering on the floorboards of the ship, the only sound they both could hear as gracie waited for a remark from him.

matt sighed, shaking his head, “it won't happen that way.” he finally responded, “we’ll ditch her by the docks once one of us gets the payment and leave immediately. we’ll be in and out too quick for the guards to catch us.” his tone was convincing, as if he truly believed it. 

“for all of our sakes i hope you’re right, sturniolo.” she sighed. walking off before matt could say another word to her.

matt’s gaze followed her before he averted it to the door you were behind. his hand hovering over the handle before sighing and turning away. he’d check on you in the morning. 

.

the morning cold was unforgiving to you, being used to your thick comforter and going to a thin sheet to cover you from the cold breeze that sneaked through the cracks of the ship. you grumbled, you hadn't seen the sun in days- you were cold and still in the same clothes you were taken in. it truly couldn't have been better for you. 

sitting up you looked at the door, seeing shadows of footsteps, all the pirates were awake, you could tell by the thudding of their footsteps. you heard the knob of the door turn, making you stand up to face who was walking in. 

“oh, you’re up.” matt said, his eyes looking up and down. “couldn't sleep for long.” you replied, your eyes on him as he looked at you and then around the room. 

“we’ll have to set a few rules here darlin’.” he said, shutting the door behind him. “so, nick said you’re my responsibility. that means i’m stuck watching you. maybe i’ll have you sort through things today so you’re not bored out of your mind or-” he paused, his brows furrowing, “do you know how to sew?” 

you blinked at him, “um. no, i can’t.” he frowned, unsatisfied with your answer, “great. i’ll be right back then, princess.” he hummed, walking out.

he returned in no more than 10 minutes, crates in his hands. “we like to make our own jewelry on this ship.” he said, “of course we steal rings and stuff, that's how i got this one.” he pointed to his star ring after settling the crates down by you. his eyes locked with his, “this was stolen from the scariest siren out there, my greatest catch. her name was stella.” he sighed before smirking at your frown and wide eyes in realization of what had happened to her. 

“relax darlin’, i didn't kill her.” he added, snickering in amusement. you looked up at him, tearing your gaze away from his silver ring, “what happened to her?” you asked. 

matt paused, he considered answering you but you weren't a friend. “nothing.” he bit out, the charming pirate facade now being replaced with a stern one. “look princess, you’re not gonna be on this ship doing nothing. the boys and i were gonna have you on patch up duty but since you have no skills for that, you’re on jewel sorting duty.” he said. separating the stack of crates, revealing tons of shimmering treasures.

“you have blue jewels, red, green, purple. and then for metals you have gold and silver.” he passed you a clean rag, or well, threw it at you. 

“sort them each. then make it look pretty, think you could do that?” he asked, gaining a nod from you in return. he smirked, “very good.” matt hummed before walking out. 

so now you were on jewelry duty, it shouldn't be so bad, you sighed, sitting down on the floor and getting to work immediately.

.

as matt returned to his headquarters he sighed. you were so pliant, he kinda wished you would fight for your own dignity, give him a little challenge. but your flight was stronger than your fight, or maybe you just wanted to go unharmed. 

he didn't have much time to dwell on it before nick came storming in, chris hot on his heels trying to reason with him before getting silenced when nick closed the door on him. “wanna tell me why the majority of the crates are missing?” he asked, his brow arched as he looked at matt.

“yes actually!” matt spun around to look at nick, a smug grin on his lips, “i’m dealing with our “princess problem.”” he said, making air quotes with his fingers. 

nick sighed, rubbing his temples, “and what the hell does that mean?”  matt rolled his eyes, “dude. relax. i just put her to work is all. she's gonna go crazy in there with nothing to do.” nick snickered with amusement, “you care why?” 

“because if i have to deal with a princess kidnapped under our ship, i’d rather her be sane. besides maybe the girls got skills to see what's real and what's fake in those crates.”

nick looked him over once before shrugging, “alright. next time tell someone other than chris.” he said before walking out. his words with chris to leave him alone and do something being muffled as they got further. leaving matt alone with his own thoughts. 

now matt had to think what to keep you occupied with when you were done with the crates, he hoped it’d take you a few days so he could come up something good. his eye caught a glimpse of a book, picking it up off the desk. it was a book about different sea creatures and myths. he recalled your conversation with gracie the night before that he eavesdropped on. he grabbed a pen before scribbling in it. he’d give it to you after you were done with the crates. while writing his little message on the book he couldn't help but pause, matt knew his crew was upset with him, but he really didn't want to let them down. he hoped that for once, he was in the right. that this would go smoothly and you’d be out of their sails quickly.

.

the support on this au has made me cry about 5 times so far.. it's just crazy how a silly little idea with my friend (gen!!! snoopychris!!!! i cant believe we're friends!!!!) ended up being liked or tolerated by people like its truly a beautiful thing. i'd make a taglist but i dont have a post schedule and would hate to disturb anyone! but if enough wants it i will push down my pride and make one just for u guys 🙂‍↕️🙂‍↕️🙂‍↕️🙂‍↕️ thank u sm for the love - star

[theallianceofcelestials]

May we have some Possesive Mirror Moon with Solar? Possessive Moon for the poor?

Welp, your wish is my command. Be prepared for a truly awful couple hundred words

Trigger warning for everything

Solar gasps for air, desperately clawing at navy forearms.

He objectively knows he doesn't need to breath. He knows this isn't doing anything too serious to him. But still

His body is desperately telling him he needs air right now, or he's going to die, but with Moon kneeling above him, pressing him onto the cold, unforgiving kitchen floor, hellish eyes burning in a deep, twisted red, manic grin shrouded by the shadows of midnight, he knows he stands no chance of getting out of here. Not until the SCP releases him.

He kicks out with his legs, desperately hoping to somehow dislodge his attacker, but the lunar bot only shifts his weight a bit, leaning more forward. Like this, he can clearly see his expression.

He looks absolutely joyous, the sick, twisted fuck. He looks like he's having the time of his life.

And then suddenly, those hands let up, and he coughs and heaves as air finally makes it in

"There Solar, shhh"

He flinches away as fingers begin caressing his rays, but the navy hands follow him anyway.

"It wasn't so bad now, was it?"

Those hands have turned feather soft, running over his face in a way he'd consider loving if he didn't know better.

"You handled your punishment so nicely. I wouldn't have to do this if you didn't touch that filth today."

He barely brushes against that random human today while the family was out shopping. But Moon was insufferable after, always leaning on him, grabbing him out of the blue, pulling him against the cold metal chassis. He knew something was wrong that moment, but he never expected for this.

Perhaps midnight snacks are truly diabolical

"But that's fiiiiiine. They've hurt you for so long, you don't know how to handle yourself, you have to be taught"

Those hands slide down now, stopping on his stomach, and his optics widen in fear as Moon's own happiness spreads more across his face until he looks as insane as he is.

"Lucky for you, uncle's here"

His fingers begin to dig into his stomach, and Solar screams. He screams so much his voicebox cuts out as Moon continues to do something, cutting him apart in more than one way.

He's panting heavily by the time the pain stops, clawing at the ground and wheezing when fingers softly run over his middle section, spreading his oil around, and why hasn't anyone else appeared yet why did they leave him alone with this-

"There! Now people will know who you belong to-!"

"Moon what the fuck did you do!?"

Solar sobs in relief at the voice of his father, feeling pathetically grateful.

He looks towards Killcode, going limp at those familiar, deeply loved icy optics, and they really must be a sight from the way they widen, they probably look awful. But with Moon crouching above him, elbow deep in Solar's oil, probably having carved his name into him, it's understandable.

The silence that's descended on them is dangerous. You could cut through the anger.

"You put down a spell in my home, so that you can torture my son without being interrupted, and now you dare look at me like that?!"

Each word is louder than the one before, and he just wants to curl up and cry.

Of course Moon put down a privacy spell. Of course he'd try to hide this.

"What, little brother? Jealous you didn't get the chance?"

That ice in those optics boils over until the temperature in the room becomes freezing. He recognises that position everyday, and if he wasn't already a relieved half-corpse on the floor, he'd have relaxed even more.

Without a further word, Killcode roars, shaking the very foundations of the house. He surely woke everyone with it, but none of them care as he throws himself forward.

Moon meets him in the middle, ready to fight whoever he has to for what he deemed his

Solar just wants to cry

[caramelarrowswife]

If your still open to requests then maybe pure vanilla teaching dark cacao to ballroom dance? :DD

A NIGHT LIKE NO OTHER

─── ∘°❉°∘ ───

If there was one thing Dark Cacao Cookie hated, it was dancing. An unnecessary skill, meant to charm guests and subjects. It was pathetic.

Unfortunately for him, the word ‘no’ seemed to disappear from Dark Cacao’s vocabulary when it came to Pure Vanilla Cookie.

A/N: this was such a cute prompt i'm going to cry aughh <33 also if there's any spelling errors it's probably because i'm running on caffeine and spite atm

─── ∘°❉°∘ ───

Dark Cacao Cookie and Pure Vanilla Cookie sat together in the large garden of the Vanilla Kingdom. The moon was high in the sky, and stars decorated the dark sky as night fell over Earthbread. Dark Cacao felt oddly at peace, more at peace than he had felt in months.

His eyes were closed as he leaned back into the bench, exhaling quietly. His muscles slowly untensed… if you were to ask him why, he would swear on his life that Pure Vanilla did something to him, put something in the drink he didn’t have, and not his own mind automatically relaxing in the kind healer’s presence.

The peace was nerve-wrecking. Any moment something would happen, and Dark Cacao knew it. No evening should be this uneventful. Any moment now, he’d have to jump into action to save Pure Vanilla and himself. An attack, a murder, an assassination, all of the above-

“My dear.. may I have this dance from you?”

There it was. A fate worse than all three.

Dark Cacao cracked an eye open to find Pure Vanilla standing in front of him, holding out a hand expectantly. His orchid-like staff laid abandoned on the bench.

“I don’t dance,” Dark Cacao said.

“Aw, please?” Pure Vanilla pouted. “For me..?”

Both of Dark Cacao’s eyes were open now, and his back straightened. His brows were furrowed and he opened his mouth to reject the offer.

“..if you insist,” Dark Cacao said instead. Damn it.

Pure Vanilla squealed in joy, tugging the larger warrior up. It took him exactly ten seconds to realise Dark Cacao had no idea what he was doing.

“..you do know how to dance, don’t you?” Pure Vanilla asked.

“It’s a completely useless skill!” Dark Cacao said defensively. “Useless in battle, useless in public! I’ll never need to dance to survive, training is a much better use of my time-”

He was cut off by a soft chuckle. Pure Vanilla seemed very amused by his heated protests, and Dark Cacao hated how not-angry that made him. If he could fight the fuzzy feeling in his chest, he would.

“Just follow my lead,” Pure Vanilla said with a kind smile.

The monarch took one of Dark Cacao’s hands, intertwining their fingers and lifting their hands until they reached a little under shoulder-height, where they stayed. Pure Vanilla’s other arm was wrapped around Dark Cacao’s waist.

Dark Cacao didn’t really know what to do with his free arm, so he just placed his hand on Pure Vanilla’s shoulder. The affirming nod he received told him he was doing the right thing.

They started off slowly. Pure Vanilla led Dark Cacao through the dance. Their steps were mirrored and, as Dark Cacao grew more talented and confident, the speed picked up until they were swirling around the garden.

A feeling bubbled up in Dark Cacao’s chest, a feeling he hadn’t felt in ages. The feeling left his mouth as loud, barely controllable chuckles that matched Pure Vanilla’s giggles.

After a few more minutes, Dark Cacao slowed down, his breathing slightly labored. “Okay, that is enough, I don’t want to throw up-!”

Pure Vanilla grinned from ear-to-ear, sitting back down on the bench and tugging Dark Cacao next to him.

“Was that so bad?” The monarch asked.

Dark Cacao turned his head to make a sarcastic retort, but instead looked into stupidly beautiful sparkling eyes. Pure Vanilla never opened his eyes and they had no right to be this captivating- oh, right, he had a question to answer.

“Uh, I su- I suppose not.”

Dark Cacao recoiled. He could hit himself. Did he just stammer? The last time he stammered was when he was seven and had to explain the three for mathematics on his report card.

Pure Vanilla didn’t seem bothered. Instead, he moved closer, putting his hand on Dark Cacao’s gloved one. “I enjoyed it.”

Dark Cacao stared straight ahead. He had never felt so ashamed and he had never wanted to kiss someone this bad.

[ladysomething]

Snippet ??

Honestly … hard to find something juicy with appropriate context, so instead I just went for something wild and different!!

“He was completely untouched when I got him, can you believe it? And Ferrari—well, they promised he would be better behaved, but he’s still been very loyal.”

Matt looks like he’s in awe. He glances around them, then steps a little closer.

“We all wondered,” Matt confesses quietly, looking around like he doesn’t want anybody to overhear. Charles wonders if that’s because of Max putting him in his place a moment ago. “Wyatt and I have talked about it before. Because he and Gasly—they must’ve, right?”

Beside him, Max stiffens. Just slightly, but with his hand around his back, Charles can feel the muscles tighten under his touch. He wonders what it is that set him off.

“Wyatt?” Max asks, with a forced casualness. The name is completely unfamilar to Charles, but obviously not to Max. “He can’t seem to keep his nose out of my business.”

Matt looks suddenly nervous, like he’s said something he shouldn’t. Charles knows he’s missing a very large piece of the puzzle here, and as best as he can figure it out, Max and this Wyatt . . . know each other? Have talked? About Charles?

“To answer the question, I assumed,” Max says, which Charles knows is the truth. He hates that Max is using any version of the truth to talk to Matt. The answer clearly puts Matt back at ease though, hanging off every word Max says. “But there were medical records, and I asked him under the voice; he’s a virgin. Or . . . was.”

Then Max laughs, and puts his hand back on his neck, fingers caressing his skin.

[secretlovesoftheheart]

oops Mouthwashing incorrect quotes part 2 I have no self control

Anya: The results are in, I’m afraid you have updog… Jimmy: What’s updog? Anya: Daisuke! Get in here, I told you I could do it!

Curly: We’ve found the person who stole your identity and was impersonating you. Jimmy: Where were they? Curly: Eating cheetos and crying in their car. Jimmy, impressed: Damn, they really went for it.

Daisuke: If I run and leap at Swansea, he will most certainly catch me in their arms. Daisuke, running towards Swansea: Coming in! Swansea: No! I’m holding coffee! Swansea: Drops coffee and catches Daisuke

Jimmy: I WOULD DESTROY THE WORLD FOR YOU! Curly: Okay, can you do the dishes? Jimmy: No!

Police Officer: You have the right to remain silent. Jimmy: I choose to waive that right! Jimmy: screaming

Curly: Do you take constructive criticism? Jimmy: No, only cash or credit.

Curly: What do we say when life disappoints us? Anya: Called it! Curly: No.

Anya: You’re not ascending to godhood, you’re just dehydrated. Curly: Outta my way, gaygirl! I’m about to liberate myself from this mortal shell! later Curly, texting Anya: hopital

Anya: Whoa, Jimmy, what’s up with that angry face? Jimmy: Daisuke won’t stop talking about how “Ancient Egyptians were furries”. Daisuke: But they were! Just looks at all their gods- Jimmy: Oh my god, SHUT UP!

Curly: What is the one thing I told you not to do? Jimmy: Burn the house down. Curly: And what did you do? Jimmy: I made dinner. Curly: Jimmy: Curly: Jimmy: And burnt the house down.

Jimmy, holding a toy lightsaber: I’m Darth Vader! Swansea: I’m done with everyone’s bullshit.

Jimmy: Wow, they really hate us. Curly: Yes, perhaps they’re homophobic. Jimmy: But we’re not gay, Curly. Curly: Jimmy: Curly: We’re not?

Curly: Oh man, you have any shaving cream? Daisuke: No, I don't like the way that it tastes. Curly: Wait… you eat shaving cream? Daisuke: No. Why would I eat it if I don't like the taste.

Swansea: A sprite is anything not static. Daisuke: A sprite is a variable object, be it 2d or 3d. Curly: A sprite is a fucking soda. Curly: You god damn geekass bastards.

Anya: Coca Cola can remove rust from metal, imagine what it’s doing to your body. Daisuke: Pfff, getting rid of the rust, idiot. Anya: THAT'S NOT HOW IT WORKS! Swansea: Hmm… I've been drinking soda and my body's rust free… not sure where you're getting your facts from…

Curly: Are you alright? Anya: Short answer or long answer? Curly: Short? Anya: No. Curly: Long? Anya: Nooooooo.

Jimmy: You have Crayons? Daisuke: Yes, I have— Jimmy: You're— how old are you? Daisuke: YES I AM AN ADULT AND I HAVE CRAYONS, I HAVE A BOX OF EMERGENCY CRAYONS IN THE CABINET UNDER THE TV BECAUSE EVERYBODY NEEDS CRAYONS SOMETIMES, OKAY? EVERYBODY NEEDS CRAYONS.

Daisuke: That sounds super! Doesn’t that sound super, Swansea? Swansea: No. Daisuke: I think I speak for Swansea when I say it sounds really super.

Swansea: What the hell is wrong with you? Jimmy: I have this weird self-esteem issue where I hate myself but still think I’m better than everyone else.

Daisuke: Wow, this parking is as straight as I am. Jimmy: I know I should be focused on the fact that you just came out, but HOW DARE YOU INSULT MY PARKING!

Jimmy: I feel awful about killing you. Curly: Jimmy: Even though technically you never even died, so I don’t know what you’re bitching about.

Daisuke: I have a bad feeling about this… Jimmy: What do you mean? Daisuke: Don't you ever get that little voice in your head that tells you if you're going to get into trouble? Jimmy: No? Swansea: That actually explains so much.

Daisuke: How are you so calm?! Anya: I’ve passed beyond “stressed”, beyond “hysteria”, into the gray misty indifference of complete shutdown of all but emergency services in my brain.

Curly: Jimmy's first detention, I'm so proud. Anya: Whoa, back up. Why did they get detention? Swansea: Because they're an idiot. Daisuke, terrified: They can do that??

Anya, Entering Curly's room: Jimmy did it again. Curly: Peace disturbance? Anya: What no- Curly: Arson..? Anya: NO, JESUS CHRIST, HOW MANY- Curly: uh….Attempted murder? Anya: NO, HE ATE ALL THE FOOD IN THE FRIDGE, BUT WHAT THE FU-

Curly: Can you please just apologize to Anya? Jimmy: Fine, but I have to warn you that this may make me a nicer, better person and that is not who you feel in love with.

Swansea: Where’s Daisuke? Jimmy: Around. Swansea: Around? Swansea: You don’t have any idea, do you? Daisuke, dropping down from above: Did you know there’s a space above the ceiling?

Daisuke: Adulting is hard. Daisuke: How do I quit? Swansea: Time travel. Jimmy: Die.

Swansea: Daisuke, what does IDK, ILY, and TTYL mean? Daisuke: I don’t know, I love you, talk to you later. Swansea: Alright, I love you too, I'll ask Anya. Daisuke: Wait- Swansea, no-

Swansea: Can you keep a secret? Anya: Do you know anything about my life? Swansea: No, I don't. Good point.

Jimmy: Punch me in the face. Swansea: …Punch you? Jimmy: Yes, punch me, didn’t you hear me? Swansea: I always hear ‘punch me in the face’ while you’re speaking but it’s usually just subtext.

Swansea: All of your existences are confusing. The Squad: How so? Swansea: Your presence is annoying, but the thought of anything bad happening to any of you upsets me.

Daisuke: shoves their hand in the slot of a toaster Swansea: … Daisuke: …I get confused sometimes. Swansea: Me too.

Curly: What’s something you guys are better than Jimmy at? Daisuke: Mario Kart. Anya: Yeah, video games. Swansea: Emotional vulnerability.

Jimmy: Just trust me. Have I ever put you in an unsafe or uncomfortable situation? Anya: All the time. Jimmy: Then you should be used to it by now.

Jimmy: Be careful, I thrive on negative attention.

Curly: Look, Anya, it's the third time this week you had a mental breakdown and its Monday.

Jimmy: Would I rather be feared or loved? Easy. Both. I want people to fear how much they love me.

Daisuke: I’ve never smoked marijuana. I ate a brownie once at a party. It was intense. It was kind of indescribable. I felt like I was floating. Turns out there was no pot in the brownie. It was just an insanely good brownie.

Swansea: I would never say that my partner is a bitch and I don’t don’t like them. That’s not true… My partner is a bitch and I like them so much!

Jimmy: Things will get better! The Squad: Jimmy: Okay, maybe they won’t. Jimmy: But they will be terrible in new and interesting ways!

[hheartsdramas]

i am so obnoxiously close to finishing. love of the divine tree episodes 34/35/36

he's still holding onto the flowers

don't tell me they are trying to make us sympathize with su yu and redeem him. idgaf, he's awful.

i've been wondering what happened to that sister, but my poor baby boy why are you indulging this monster? thank god you remain petty and contrary

i would probably go crazy and moderately evil if my husband chose his own damn immortality over me and our fucking children so...go off queen

oh she got her memories back yay!

this poor man, his heart is trying to love so hard but all he knows right now is abuse and betrayal and his brain doesn't want to believe it

once again...evil aesthetics. forget kittens, this is how you kidnap me. hot damn.

oh nooooooooooo xiao shui! you must still be in there somewhere but i'm worried

wei jiu is the desperate soon-to-be-ex-boyfriend who's panicking about his girlfriend moving out because he doesn't know how to do laundry by himself. tu jiuyuan, i'm proud of you!

i'll seize that body

oh yeahhhh the little soft domme is back!!

i am SO PLEASED to hear that tu jiuyuan is living her best life with her house and her garden and her neighbors. she deserves it.

honestly i am so jealous of evil sys's curls. my curls do not look like that.

i feel bad for su yu about negative one thousand percent

i am SO SAD to hear that tu jiuyuan got sucked back into things. she doesn't deserve that

girl nooooo i thought you were better than giving in just because this loser tells you he likes you! and a fake loser at that!

su yu you deserve everything that's coming to you

also the romantic in me believes that across 3000 worlds she would choose su yishui every time