#it's the first piece I finished and also the least one I like...

[creamecafe]

Fate by "Design" | Salesman x Artist!Fem!Reader

Summary: While doing art in a subway, the Salesman offers you to play Ddakji, a chance to win money. But you wanted his number, when you win your acquaintance with the salesman becomes much more.

Pairing: Salesman x Artist!Fem!Reader

Warnings: fluff, flirting, allusions to smut/sex, but not explicit

Word Count:

Author's Note: This was requested by Crazy4herluv on my Wattpad book Squid Game Imagines/One-Shots. This is also my first Salesman work, so I hope you enjoy!

*Icon used for this header above that I made in PicsArt is from Pinterest. Divider is from @cafekitsune in this post*

Want a request for a Squid Game character like this one? Check out my post, read my request guidelines and send a request!

Read on Wattpad & AO3 here

The sounds of the almost isolated subway and people walking is the highlight of your daily routine. You had moved to Korea to work for a art company and you do sketches by hand.

It paid very good money but in your free time you liked to be in the subway and do art for others like New York. People would walk and stop to see what you possibly could be doing.

A lot of the time, couples, parents with their kids or even old people would ask for a drawing each day and you get paid at least $130-200 at the end of the day.

Your art simply consisted of charcoal sketches of the person who requested for the art as semi-realistic as possible with a watercolor splash in the back if they ask.

Sometimes you notice while you're drawing or sketching away looking for people to draw, you would see a man in a black suit.

He had black hair and was always carrying a suitcase with him. He was also very handsome, you thought. When you took the time to actually analyze him or look at him, not in a creepy way you thought, you noticed that he would throw something on the ground and slap people.

This guy must be insane, you thought. Slapping people everyday, but it didn't stop you wondering who he really was. You thought of going up to him and asking if he would like his own portrai. But you were nervous of asking such a good looking guy and you are an artist in the subway, so he was way out of your league.

Today felt like any other day. Until one person, the guy in the black suit came up to you. You were going to pack up for the day when you accidentally dropped pencils and other supplies on the floor, then rolled around. As you were on the ground picking up the supplies, you saw polished black shoes stop and turn in front of you.

You look up and see him. The guy in the black suit looks down at you while you're trying to pick up your stuff.

"Good evening ma'am. I have a question for you."

You got up from the floor and brushed off the germs from yourself from the subway ground.

"Hello sir. I finished my hours for the day drawing so I can't accept any art requests right now I'm sorry. You could always come back tomorrow if you like."

"I'm not asking for a drawing. I'm asking if you would like to play a game."

A game? Is this guy Billy the puppet you thought?"

"What game?" You asked?

"It's called Ddakji. Have you heard of it before?"

Ddakji. It should sound familiar but you felt like you don't know it.

"I don't think so. What is it?"

"It's very simple. You fold two pieces of paper, usually of bright colors as it's a children's game like an envelope and the goal is to throw down the paper as hard as you can so the other person's paper flips over."

"What's the point of playing the game?"

"If you win, I'll give you money. A hundred thousand won."

Your eyes widened at what he said. A hundred thousand won? That amount of money to get while doing art in a subway could take a year or two. Yet here's this handsome well kept money offering to you.

"And if I lose?"

"Well usually I slap people until they win or just give up." That explains why you see this man in the subway grounds slapping people and throwing stuff down.

"But seeing how creative you are. How about a portrait of me? Use all your creativity and imagination you can and give me something."

"Ok. I'll play. But I can change something?"

"What is it?" He turns his head to express curiosity. It's rare that people would ask for a change of things while playing, conducting he's the one in charge.

"If I win, I get to have your number."

The salesman is surprised at your boldness to ask him out.

"My number? You could walk out with a hundred thousand won. What could my number offer to you?"

"Well I might see a better prize than money. I see a real piece of art right here." You raised your eyebrow smirking

He smirks at you. This was going to be interesting he thought.

"We have an agreement then?"

You nodded. "I lose, you get a portrait. But if I win..."

"You get my number." The salesman nods smiling. "Five in a row you have to win." He then pulls out two colored orgami tiles of red and blue from his suit jacket.

"What color would you like?"

"Red/blue" you said.

"Alright then. Ladies first."

You look at him and then the ground. 10 in a row you can do this. You took a deep breath and slammed the envelope on the ground. The guy then slams his envelope on the ground flipping yours around.

It created a loud slapping sound and echoed that it startled you. You look up scared he was lying to his word and might actually slap you. You close your eyes and prepare for it.

"What are you doing?" The salesman asks

"Aren't you going to slap me?"

"You don't have to worry. I wouldn't slap a pretty face like yours. I only want a drawing."

Opening your eyes you took a deep breath. At least you wouldn't be slapped.

"1-0" The guys says. You assumed that was his keeping score

You pick up your envelope and roll up your sleeve. You threw it down but it didn't flip the salesmans. He picked his up and slammed it down flipping yours again.

"2-0". Now the chances of getting this guys number seems low and you might look like a fool. You were weren't to give up just yet. You relied on your skills of carrying an easel and so many supplies per day to the game.

Taking a deep breath, you slam down the card and it flipped the guys. You were smiled wanting to jump for joy.

"2-1" You put up 2 fingers with one hand and 1 finger to the guys face.

He said nothing but smirked. Talking wasn't his thing, you noticed. Probably why you found him attractive.

The salesman picks up his card and slams it and your flips over. It was a continuous picking up and flipping cards. You were getting better as the points were getting higher.

Now the score was "7-8". You were becoming tired and kinda wish you were home right now, sleeping. But

The salesman threw down his card and flipped yours. Now it was 8-8. A tie. Just two more and you get his number. You threw yours down and it flipped over. 8-9. Another slam from the guy and it was 9-9.

This was it. You weren't sure you would have enough energy to draw that portrait of his that he wanted. But you needed enough energy to finish this game.

You slammed it down and saw it flipped over. I won, you thought to yourself. Did I actually win? You thought.

"Congratulations. You won ma'am." The salesman smiled.

Those words felt unreal. "Yes! Yes!" You jumped around happy.

"Now, you asked for my number. I suppose you wouldn't have a piece of paper to write down my number, would you?"

What kind of question was that? You were a artist. Blank papers is all you carry. You grab your sketchbook from your bag and a pen to give to him.

He took it from your hands and wrote down his number fast. He gave it back to you and you saw it.

"What do you plan to do with that number, Miss?"

"I was wondering maybe you want to go out?"

"We can do that. Can I pick the place?"

It was the least you could let him do as he offered you money and kept true to his word to give you his money.

"Sure. I'll text you when I'm available. I might see you here too. Who knows?"

He nodded your response smiling.

"You have a good day madam"

"You too" God how you loved how formal he was and calling you madam and ma'am, even though you weren't really that old.

When you went home, you were exhausted but still smiling and excited that you got the guy's number. You texted your name so he could have yours saved as well. You went to bed, wondering what it could lead to. Possibly just one date or even more.

The next day, was the same thing. Wake up, eat breakfast, pack your things and head to the subway. You kept fixing yourself up for the salesman, wondering if he would come by.

He always comes by, you thought. He just has to. You scanned around the subway to see where he is as you didn't want to move your spot. After an hour had passed, it looked like he hadn't been around.

Maybe asking for his number was a bad idea, that he was avoiding to talk to you, you thought. A man walked by and dropped something not that far from you. It looked like money. Seeing this you get up, pick up the bill and try to call out for the man. But it looked like he was already gone. It was

Written in a black permanent marker, it says “Look at your phone ma’am”. Without thinking you check your phone and see a message. Meet me at the park at 4:30 PM. No need to dress so fancy but wear something you feel pretty in.

Blinking your eyes rapidly, you couldn’t believe what’s in front of you, more likely what’s on your phone. He’s actually texting you. The weird quiet but handsome black suit guy is texting you. You packed your things and went home and went to get ready to meet him in the park.

It was nothing special that you wore. Just a simple sundress/pantsuit but it was still one of the nicest outfits you had in your wardrobe. You kept wondering just what the man in plan for you. Walking around the park, you see the man still in his suit, hands in front looking around, possibly waiting for you, you thought.

Smiling, you walk up to him. When he sees you, he smiles with no teeth but still showing joy. He reaches out a hand. Looking at it hesitantly, you took his hand. The salesman then took your hand, bowed a little and kissed the back of your hand gently. You felt your heart skipped a beat when he did that.

“Hello ma’am. We meet again.”

“Hi. Were you the person that gave me the bill?”

“Maybe, a beautiful woman like you deserves more.”

Was this a dream? Were you dreaming or is this real. This man seemed to good to be true. You two walked to what would be your first date. The place he picked out for the first date was an art museum. It displayed the finest arts across the worlds and many different paintings. The salesman would ask about each piece and how did it make you feel. You responded to many of his questions but kept looking around. You guys kept talking and asking each other questions to get more acquainted with each other.

After the museum, he took you a some place to eat. Then you guys went to get ice cream. He paid for everything and asked if there’s anywhere else you would like to go. If you tried to pull out your card or even cash to pay for your own things, he would refuse so and said he got everything and that anything you wanted he’ll get for you. It had been late, so he dropped you off home and asked how was everything and if you enjoyed it.

You couldn’t thank him enough for the wonderful day you had comparison to just drawing in a subway for hours. Before you left his car, there was a slight tension between you guys that it could be cut with a knife. The man wanted to say something else but couldn’t stop looking at your lips. Looking at him, you see his hands reach towards your face and cup it as his lips softly touches yours.

His lips were so baby smooth and his cologne was so sharp from his neck, it felt like a gas hyptonixjg you. You cup his face, grazing it with your thumb. He pulls away, still looking at you with such yearning. Your thumb still on his face grazed his lips as you said goodbye and gave him a kiss on the cheek.

Ever since that night, you two have been dating. He would take you on dates to other places. Mostly just walks in the park or art related stuff that you like. Your small kisses would turn into small makeouts into something more. He would sometimes, well mostly go over to your place and sleep over. In the mornings he would make breakfast in his underwear. You wish you could draw him right then and there.

He loves to pose for your art or whatever reference you need for your assignment in class. Once a month, he'll take you out to the art store to get whatever supplies you need. Your messy clothing consisted of paint or oil pastel stains is opposite of his clean, ironed and steamed suit. But he loves it either way.

The only time that he was out of the suit was when he was in bed with you. But other than that, you wanted him to be a bit more fun. You wanted to him have more color. Seeing those videos of online of couples doing painting of each others to see both of your art skills.

You begged the salesman to do wit you and he finally agrees. Squealing you get everything ready, canvas, paints, brushes, water and paper towels. You had 10 minutes to try to get each other’s features as accurate as possible

Time passes and both of you guys are done. You show your art of him and it’s him in his suit, pretty accurate and semi realistic but some details were missing. He nods and says it’s impressive of how much you can get done in less than hour.

You ask for his painting and he turns his Canva around and you see you in an almost renaissance like painting. Your mouth dropped and all felt like years of your art skills go away to just 10 minutes.

“What! How’s that even possible? Why didn’t you tell me you were good at art?”

“Well two people can’t be the artists in a relationship. One has to be a muse, to inspire the other.”

You scoffed at his bullshit. He just didn’t want to brag. An idea came in your mind. You grab a paintbrush and leave a stroke of red paint on his face.

“If you want to be a muse, why don’t you have some color on you?”

Smirking, the salesman takes this as a challenge and grabs his paint brush and paints across your face too.

Now you guys were having a paint battle. You tried to paint him more but he lightly grabs your arm and stops you. He leads you the floor, where he’s now on top of you. Seeing this as an opportunity, you grab a bottle of paint that’s open and smeared on his white shirt. He laughs at this and rolls you over where you’re now on top of him, straddling him.

Nothing was said between you both as you kept looking at each other. Like that night of your first date when you guys first kissed. Putting your head down you kiss him and he put his arms around on your back. The paint on your guys’ face mixed with each other. Breath was running out so you decided to stop. Your heart was beating so much just as he was trying to catch his breath too.

Now you’re forever grateful you asked for his number then taking the money. It’s a better reward than what the salesman had to offer you, as you got him, yourself. It felt like a dream come true. Even if it was, you didn’t want to wake up. Everything of being with him was like straight art. Maybe it was meant to be. That day you accidentally dropped your pencils and he came up to you. It could be called fate by others. Fate by design you like to call it.

He was right, one has to be the muse in a relationship and the other an artist. But to him, it was the thing he was missing the most. An new reason to be in the subway that fateful day.

Taglist:

@deffreal, @cocofia143, @sorry-meme, @elizabeth-hatake, @nini-0808, @hobinistaworld, @ineedsmootching, @alittlebitofeverything , @happyfrog7681 , @tiuhiatus, @goofiestgoober27, @jayyyourbabe, @ninahorikoshifr, @ikeithy , @vampiregirlxoxo, @ouwioworuuu, @cloudysxkura, @l4venderia, @anthea1239, @iidontwannadiealone,

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[ruewritesoccasionally]

Lessons in Obsession | Terry Richmond

Pairing: Dark!Professor!Terry x Dark!Student!Black!Reader

Warnings: Dark themes and smut 18+, obsessive behaviour, stalking, manipulation, tension, power dynamics, references to other sexual acts, teasing, degradation kink (if you squint) } everything is consensual but read at your own risk !

Summary: Lessons in Obsession follows a uni student whose innocent admiration for her professor, Terry, morphs into an all-consuming obsession but she's in for a surprise.

Word Count: 3.9K

a/n: okay i went a little wild with this one and unintentionally made it lowkey a thriller 🤭...something about dark!terry just hits but also i really wanted to see the reader crazy this time

The first time she noticed him, it wasn’t his sharp jawline or the way his voice rumbled through the lecture hall that caught her attention. It was something smaller, something more insignificant—a fleeting moment, really. He’d complimented her paper, a simple “Well done, solid work,” as he handed it back with a faint, approving smile. That was all it took.

She’d sat in the third row that day, blending into the sea of students, but in that moment, she felt seen. Not just noticed, but recognised, as though the hours she’d poured into her research had been worth something. His gaze lingered for half a second longer than it should have, or at least she thought it had. That was the moment her harmless admiration started to shift into something... darker.

By the next lecture, she’d made subtle adjustments. Arriving earlier, sitting closer to the front, ensuring her outfit was neat but understated—just enough for him to notice if he looked. And he did. She watched his eyes sweep over the room, landing on her briefly before continuing his scan. Her chest tightened, satisfaction unfurling within her like a bloom. He was paying attention.

From then on, her routine became calculated. She was always the first one there, slipping into her usual seat before anyone else arrived. A notebook rested behind her laptop, a perfect cover for her real intentions. While others scrambled to open their notes or chatted idly, she observed. Every flick of his wrist, every adjustment of his glasses, the way his brow furrowed when he lost his train of thought—it was all committed to memory, scribbled hastily into her private pages.

She told herself it was innocent at first. Just curiosity. He was an intriguing man, after all—intelligent, confident, effortlessly commanding. But as the days turned into weeks, her observations grew more intimate. She noticed how he favoured navy suits and brown loafers, how he drank his coffee black but occasionally indulged in a splash of cream. She tracked the times he left the building, the direction he walked, the car he drove.

By the third week, she knew the rhythm of his day better than her own. He parked in the same spot each morning, near the oak tree at the back of the lot. He stopped by the gym on Tuesdays and Thursdays, finishing just in time to grab a quick dinner before heading home. She even discovered his preferred brand of deodorant, catching a faint trace of it when he walked past her desk during a group discussion.

Her obsession didn’t feel wrong. It felt... natural. Like she was simply gathering pieces of a puzzle only she was meant to solve. And he made it so easy.

When he returned another marked paper with the note “Excellent insight” scrawled at the top, she’d felt the thrill shoot through her veins. She told herself it was his fault, really. The way he encouraged her, the way he looked at her like she was the only one in the room who truly understood. He’d lit the match—she was just fanning the flame.

And then came the moment that sealed everything.

A casual compliment, thrown out mid-discussion: “I can always count on you to ask the right questions.” It was nothing, really—just another piece of professional praise. But to her, it was gospel. Proof that she wasn’t imagining it. Proof that she wasn’t just another face in the crowd.

From then on, she didn’t just observe—she planned.

She had always prided herself on her precision, her ability to stay undetected even as her obsession simmered to a boil. The first few weeks were pure indulgence—watching, cataloguing, fantasising. But eventually, that wasn’t enough. Admiration alone couldn’t scratch the itch that had grown unbearable. She wanted more. Needed more.

The plan came to her slowly, like a puzzle clicking into place. It started with something small—an intentional "mistake." She had read the assignment prompt a dozen times and could recite it by heart, but she submitted a paper that was just the slightest bit off-topic. Not enough to raise suspicion, but enough for him to notice. Enough to warrant a conversation.

When he handed it back, there was a crease between his brows, a rare crack in his calm. His sharp grey-green eyes swept over her in quiet assessment, and she almost squirmed under their weight. “This isn’t like you,” he said, his tone curious rather than chastising. “You usually have such a firm grasp on the material. Are you all right?”

She had feigned confusion perfectly, tilting her head and furrowing her brow like she hadn’t a clue what he meant. “I thought I was following the prompt,” she’d murmured, her voice low and unsure, laced with just enough vulnerability to draw him in. “I... I’m sorry if I misunderstood.”

He paused, studying her carefully, his gaze steady, searching, and for a brief, electric moment, she thought he might be onto her. But then he nodded, his voice softening. “No need to apologise. These things happen. How about we go over it together? I want to make sure you’re on the right track.”

Bingo.

She had known where he lived long before the meeting was scheduled.

It wasn’t hard to figure out. He wasn’t exactly secretive about his habits—early morning gym sessions at the fitness centre across town, groceries from the upscale shop three blocks from campus, the quiet little bungalow tucked away at the end of a cul-de-sac. She had seen him there once, unloading bags from his car, his low-cut black hair catching the golden evening light.

She had followed him home that day, her car creeping at just the right distance, her heart hammering against her ribs with each turn he took. By the time he pulled into his driveway, her palms were sweaty against the steering wheel, but the thrill had been unlike anything she’d ever felt. Watching him carry his life inside that house had felt... intimate. Like she had crossed some invisible line, though the rush of it outweighed any guilt she might have felt.

And then she had waited. Sat parked just beyond the bend, her eyes glued to the faint glow of light spilling from his windows. She counted how many steps he took to reach his front door, memorised the way he rolled his shoulders as he unlocked it. She watched the faint flicker of a screen—television or computer, she couldn’t tell—and made a note of the exact time the lights went off.

That night, she hadn’t slept. The image of him—so unaware, so vulnerable—played on a loop in her mind. She pictured him in bed, the steady rise and fall of his chest as he slept. Did he sleep on his back? His side? Did he keep the windows cracked open for fresh air? Did his sheets smell like him?

She knew she was losing control, but the thought of stopping never even crossed her mind.

Now, as she stood at his front door, that same thrill coursed through her veins, but it was darker this time. He had invited her into his world, unknowingly stepping into the web she had so carefully spun.

She had dressed with care—nothing too obvious, but enough to draw his eye. A fitted jacket that hugged her curves, an off-the-shoulder top that hinted at the lace of her bra, jeans that clung to her thighs just right. Beneath it all, her favourite matching lingerie. Soft, sheer, and black—a small, twisted part of her had hoped he’d see it. Her scent lingered subtly in the air, a soft floral undertone she knew he’d notice when she stepped close.

When he opened the door, his gaze swept over her briefly, his expression unreadable. But there it was—that flicker of recognition. Her chest tightened. “Come on in,” he said, stepping aside to let her pass. His voice was as calm and steady as always, but there was something in his tone—a weight, a tension—that made her heart race.

The office was neatly organised, books lining the walls, a sturdy desk in the centre. He gestured for her to sit, pulling a chair next to hers as he spread her assignment out on the desk. “Let’s start here,” he said, his tone patient as ever. He pointed to a line of text, explaining where she’d gone wrong, but she barely heard him.

She wasn’t looking at the paper. She was looking at him—at the way his hands moved, strong and deliberate, at the way his tongue darted out to wet his lips before he spoke, at the faint shadow of stubble along his jawline. Her mind wandered, imagining those hands gripping her waist, those lips brushing her skin, that sharp look darkening with desire.

Her breathing quickened, her thighs pressing together as she fought to keep her composure. The tension in the room shifted, almost silent at first, but she felt it like a live wire crackling in the air.

He paused mid-sentence, his stormy eyes lifting to meet hers, and for a moment, the world stilled.

“Are you even listening?” he asked, his voice low, almost teasing.

She tilted her head, feigning innocence as her lips curled into a soft smile. “Actually, Professor,” she said, leaning forward just slightly, “it’s a little warm in here, don’t you think?”

The corner of his mouth twitched, almost imperceptibly, and then, to her surprise, he leaned back in his chair, setting the paper down. “Is that so?” he murmured, his tone unreadable, though she could swear she saw the faintest glimmer of something darker in his eyes.

She leaned forward, emboldened by his lack of resistance, her voice dropping to a near whisper. “Maybe you should... loosen up a bit.

Her gaze locked on his as her jacket slid from her shoulders and pooled on the chair behind her. The fitted top she wore clung to her curves, the delicate lace of her bra peeking out just enough to tempt.

Terry’s eyes flickered, briefly taking in the sight, but his expression remained unreadable, calm as ever. It should have unnerved her, the lack of visible reaction, but she told herself this was progress. She was finally breaking through his wall of professionalism. Encouraged by his lack of protest, she leaned in further, her fingers brushing lightly against the desk as she closed some of the distance between them. Her pulse thundered in her ears, but she felt inspirit, her confidence bolstered by the way he didn’t pull away, didn’t reprimand her for overstepping.

Instead, he let her.

He let her reach out, let her fingertips graze his wrist as she tried to gauge his reaction. She thought she saw the muscles in his jaw tighten, but he didn’t move, didn’t pull away. It was thrilling, intoxicating, the idea that she might finally have him in the palm of her hand.

When he didn’t stop her, she leaned closer still, her lips parting slightly as her courage reached its peak. She let her hand slide just a little higher, brushing over the cuff of his shirt as her breath mingled with his, their faces close enough now that she could see the faint flecks of amber in his irises.

And still, he let her.

It wasn’t until she dared to press her lips against his—soft, testing, an invitation—that she thought she felt him falter. A low hum rumbled in his throat, almost inaudible, and for a moment, she thought she’d won.

But then he tilted his head, just slightly, and though he kissed her back with equal softness, there was something unnervingly controlled about it—something that made her question things for an entirely different reason.

The air between them thickened, charged with a sensual tension that felt almost surreal. Her fingers curled against his forearm, and he didn’t stop her. Instead, he let her deepen the kiss, let her pour every ounce of her desire and audacity into it.

She took the opportunity to push further, her confidence blooming as she climbed onto his lap, her thighs brushing against his.

But that’s when it happened.

His hands caught her waist, stopping her in her tracks with a firm but unhurried grip. He leaned back just slightly, and a low, dark chuckle escaped his lips, rich and full of something she couldn’t quite place.

And just like that, his entire demeanour shifted.

For a moment, he didn’t move, his gaze locked on hers. Then, slowly, a dark chuckle rumbled from his chest, low and rich, sending a shiver down her spine.

For a fleeting moment, she thought she had him. The charged silence hung thick between them, the weight of her audacity filling the room as she leaned closer, her lips parting slightly, her confidence swelling.

He hadn’t stopped her until that point.

His calm was unnerving, but she mistook it for hesitation. Perhaps he was struggling to reconcile his professionalism with the pull of desire she was certain she saw flash in his stormy green-grey eyes. She thrived on that uncertainty, on the possibility that she had thrown him off balance.

“You’re quiet, Professor,” she murmured, her voice a mix of sweet innocence and teasing allure. Her fingertips grazed the edge of the desk, creeping ever so slightly toward him. “Cat got your tongue?”

It was then—when his lips curved into the faintest smirk—that she realised she’d miscalculated.

“Not quite,” he said, his voice low and deliberate, slicing through the tension like a blade.

Her confidence wavered as he leaned back in his chair, the casualness of his movements at odds with the sudden weight in his gaze. That smirk deepened, dark and knowing, and it felt like the room had shifted—like the power she thought she held had been ripped from her hands without her even noticing.

“You think you’ve been clever, don’t you?” he asked, tilting his head slightly as he studied her. His tone was almost amused, but there was something beneath it—something sharper, darker.

Her heart thudded painfully against her ribs, her breath catching in her throat. “I... I don’t know what you mean,” she managed, though the words felt weak, flimsy in the charged space between them.

“Oh, I think you do.” His gaze dropped to her hands, still resting on the desk, and he let out a soft chuckle. “Let’s not pretend, sweetheart. You’ve been playing your little games for weeks now, haven’t you?”

She froze, her blood turning cold even as her skin burned with embarrassment.

“I have to say,” he continued, leaning forward now, his elbows resting on the desk as he closed the distance between them. “You had me almost convinced. The shy, studious act? It’s impressive. Convincing. But I’ve been around long enough to recognise obsession when I see it.”

Her mouth opened, but no words came out.

“Did you really think I wouldn’t notice?” he asked, his voice soft but cutting. “The way you’re always first in, always last out? The way your eyes never leave me during lectures? How you scribble in that little notebook of yours like your life depends on it?” He chuckled again, the sound low and unsettling. “I’d almost feel flattered if it weren’t so... obvious.”

Her head spun, a mix of panic and exhilaration coursing through her. She wanted to deny it, to fight back, but his eyes held her captive, pinning her in place with their steady, unrelenting weight.

“And then there’s the gym,” he said, his tone taking on a darker edge. “That was a nice touch, by the way. Following me there. Taking your little pictures. Did you think I didn’t see you, lurking behind the machines, pretending to stretch? Did you really think I took my shirt off in the same spot every night because it was convenient?”

Her stomach dropped.

“No, sweetheart,” he said, his smirk widening as he leaned even closer, his voice dropping to a near whisper. “I did it for you. Had to make sure you got some good material to play with yourself to later. I could still smell it on you the next day, you know.”

She gasped, her face burning with humiliation and arousal in equal measure.

“Oh, don’t look so shocked,” he said, his tone mockingly sweet. “You thought you were being clever, didn’t you? All your little schemes and games. But here’s the thing, darling—you’re not the only one who knows how to play.”

She tried to speak, to say something, anything, but the words wouldn’t come. Her throat felt tight, her mind racing as he reached out, his fingers brushing over hers on the desk. The touch was light, almost gentle, but it sent a jolt of electricity through her, a silent reminder of just how out of her depth she was.

“You’re not nearly as covert as you think,” he continued, his voice low and laced with dark amusement. “But I’ll give you credit where it’s due. You’ve been entertaining. All those nights sitting in your car outside my house, thinking I didn’t notice. The way you memorised my schedule, my habits. The effort you put into dressing just right, spraying that little perfume of yours.”

He leaned back again, his smirk never wavering as he looked her over, his gaze sharp and assessing. “But here’s the thing, sweetheart. You were never in control. You thought you were pulling the strings, but you were dancing to my tune the whole time.”

Her breath hitched, her body trembling as his words sank in. She had been so careful, so meticulous, and yet...

He stood then, his presence towering and commanding, and she felt the shift in the air—the moment where the dynamic between them changed irreversibly.

“Now,” he said, his voice calm but carrying an edge that sent a shiver down her spine. “Why don’t you show me what all that planning and fantasising was really about? Let’s see if you can live up to your little fantasies, hm?”

Her heart pounded, a mix of fear and desire flooding her veins as she realised there was no going back. He had seen through her from the start, had played along, letting her think she was in control. And now, he was ready to show her just how wrong she had been.

And she couldn’t wait.

The room felt heavy now, thickened by the desire, the air electric as her breathing quickened under his unrelenting gaze. She couldn’t bring herself to pull away, even as he smirked, his thumb lazily brushing the curve of her hip. It was unnervingly intimate, as though he had all the time in the world, his calmness only serving to highlight her spiralling frenzy.

"Come on," Terry murmured, his voice low, almost coaxing. "You’ve been dying for this moment. Show me how far you’re willing to go, sweetheart."

Her breath hitched, heat pooling between her thighs as his words cut through her like a blade. She didn’t care about the implications, didn’t care about the sudden shift in control. She was too far gone now.

Her lips parted, trembling, and she confessed, “I’ve watched you.” Her voice was barely above a whisper, but the weight of her admission hung heavy between them.

“Watched me?” he echoed, a dark chuckle slipping past his lips. “That’s a bit vague, don’t you think? Be specific, baby. I want to hear it all.”

Her cheeks burned, but there was no escaping the command in his tone. “After the gym,” she murmured. “Every night, I—I watched you through the window. I saw how you took your shirt off, how you—”

“Let me guess,” he interrupted, his voice like velvet, laced with mockery. “You touched yourself while you watched, didn’t you? Sat there in the dark like a good little voyeur, pretending I didn’t know you were there.”

She swallowed hard, shame and arousal warring within her. But it didn’t matter anymore. He already knew. “Yes,” she admitted, her voice breaking slightly. “I did.”

Terry’s smirk widened, his hands tightening on her hips as he pulled her closer. “And you thought I didn’t notice?” he asked, his voice soft but dripping with condescension. “Sweetheart, I was putting on a show for you. Every. Single. Time.”

Her eyes widened, her pulse hammering in her ears as he leaned in, his lips brushing the shell of her ear. “I can smell the desperation and arousal. Almost pathetic.”

A whimper escaped her lips, and he pulled back, his gaze dark and unforgiving as he studied her. “Go on,” he urged. “Confess the rest.”

The words spilled out of her in a breathless rush, each admission dragging her deeper into his control. She told him about the photos she’d taken, the times she’d followed him, the nights she’d sat outside his house just to feel close to him.

And he listened, calm and calculated, his smirk never faltering. “That’s quite the imagination you have,” he remarked. “Bet you thought you were the one pulling the strings, didn’t you?”

Her nails dug into his shoulders, her frustration mounting as he toyed with her. “You’re enjoying this,” she accused, her voice trembling.

“Oh, I’m more than enjoying it,” he replied, his tone dangerously low. “I’m giving you exactly what you’ve been begging for, aren’t I? Don’t waste it.”

The next moments were a blur of heat and sensation as he flipped her onto her back, his movements slow but purposeful, like he had all the time in the world. His hands mapped every inch of her, his touch teasing and relentless as he brought her to the edge over and over again, only to pull her back at the last second.

“You thought you could come here and take control?” he taunted, his fingers curling inside her just right, dragging a shattered moan from her lips. “No, sweetheart. This is my game. And you? You’re just a willing pawn.”

She surprised him then, her nails raking down his back as she arched into him, her teeth grazing his jaw in a show of defiance. “Maybe I want you to lose control,” she whispered, her voice thick with desperation.

He chuckled darkly, his grip tightening on her thighs as he pinned her down, his crazed eyes locking onto hers. “Oh, you don’t want that,” he warned, his voice low and dangerous. “You couldn’t handle it.”

The sequences after were just as intense, his dominance absolute as he unravelled her piece by piece. His words were filthy, his movements calculated to drive her mad, and she could do nothing but cling to him, her mind and body overwhelmed by the onslaught.

When it was over, when they lay tangled together in the aftermath, her body still trembling from the force of it all, Terry’s calm demeanour remained unshaken.

He leaned on one elbow, his gaze steady as he traced a finger along her collarbone. “You thought you were the one watching me, didn’t you?” he murmured, his voice soft but laced with a chilling edge. “Sweetheart, I’ve had my eyes on you from the very beginning.”

The weight of his words settled over her, and for the first time, she realised just how deeply she’d been outplayed.

And as he pressed one last lingering kiss to her lips, a dark smile tugging at the corners of his mouth, she couldn’t help but wonder—had she ever really been in control?

taglist: @writingsbytee @venusincleo

comments and reblogs are appreciated as well as feedback, i hope you liked it 🫶🏾🫶🏾🫶🏾

[cursedfallingmoon]

Bring Honor to Us All || Yan GB Mulan x GN Reader

Characters: Ping

Summary: An awkward boy who goes to war for and with you

Warnings: Yandere themes, possessiveness

A/n: I finally finished it oml!!!

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Yan GB Mulan who so badly wants to be seen as a man. He dresses like one, and he tries his best to act like one. His family doesn't seem to notice it. Well, anyone other than his grandmother. She seems to understand. And then there's you. His best friend. Who he's known since you two were infants. You make him feel like the man he truly he is.

Yan GB Mulan who is upset that he has to go through the match making process. Not only does he have to dress so feminine, he has to act like the perfect bride. Ping couldn’t bring himself to even think of that. He had a plan to marry you, no matter what. He dreaded the days leading up to it. However, he still worked hard to remember “The Final Admonition”. Ping's fear of disappointing his family drove him. He tries so hard to keep it together as he’s dressed. His only solace was you being there. In moments where he’s alone, Ping clings to you and begs for comfort. All your words are of reassurance. You constantly remind him that even if he looks like this, like a woman, you see him no different. That even in such attire, he isn’t any less of a man. He has to leave you reluctantly with his mother. Before he leaves, his grandmother gives him a lucky cricket.

Yan GB Mulan who messes up majorly with the scary matchmaker because the lucky cricket got free from the cage. He ran out of the building in tears. He didn’t mean to mess up. He tried so hard. He was panicked that his father would think less of him. That you would think less of him. Once Ping had made it back home, he broke down in tears. He wandered around his family’s estate as he rummaged around his thoughts. He ended up in the ancestral temple. In the reflection of one of the plaques, Ping wiped off the makeup. He finally saw himself. He sat under a cherry blossom tree, where his father had joined him. His father tried his best to bring some comfort to him.

Yan GB Mulan who is ripped from his sadness from the sounds of horses. A declaration was being made that seemed to rouse all the villagers. The emperor’s advisor was giving a call to war. Ping was watching from behind the large stone wall. He witnessed his father being handed a scroll. His stomach dropped. He wasn’t going to let this happen. Ping jumped off the wall and ran into the crowd. He gave his piece of mind to the advisor and shared his concerns to his father. They weren’t received well. The royal advisor simply sneered at Ping. The royal advisor couldn’t understand the audacity of Ping. After the advisor had left, Ping’s mind wandered to you. His only solace. Like always. He ran his way to you and shared his worries. You were always there to listen. It was then that he learned that some of your family got the same message.

Yan GB Mulan who decided that night to take his father’s place in the war. He uses this as a chance to cut his hair and bind his chest. In the reflection of his father’s sword, he finally saw himself. At least who he was meant to be. He feels like himself. In the rain, he rides off to the camps with his father’s sword in his hands and with his horse. What he didn’t realize was that you were watching him ride through the night. It didn’t take much mental work to figure out what Ping was up to. You followed him through the night on foot and with the help of kind cart riders.

Yan GB Mulan who tried to hype himself up to join the other soldiers. He was also working on asking his voice. He was startled out of his skin when a booming voice took over the secluded area. The area seemed to be lit up with a torch. Ping was thusly introduced to Mushu, his family guardian. Or so Mushu claimed. Ping thought Mushu was a lizard at first. Mushu offered Ping help which he took. Once Mushu helped hype Ping up, he was ready. As he was walking through the campsite, and Mushu offered some not so sound advice, Ping caused a huge mess in the campground. Not only that, but the other soldiers were pissed at him.

Yan GB Mulan who’s anxiety flared up even more as the general confronts him. The question he wasn’t prepared for. The general had asked his name. He was fumbling. Mushu starts to rapid fire names. Each one he mumbled made the General even more upset. Ping. He’ll go with Ping. Ping is shocked when the General points someone out to him. The General was gesturing to you. You were sitting so perfectly in the chaos. You weren’t meant to be here. Not only that but you were being used as a god example. Why did he feel so betrayed?

Yan GB Mulan who was incredibly embarrassed that he causes the rest of the soldiers to clean up. He kept his head down, but bumped into you. You tumbled down, which triggered his quick reaction. He brought his hand down and quickly helped you up. Ping was cautious about the amount of time he was holding your hand. Or how long he was staring at you. You gave hm your name, and he tried to act like he didn’t know you. He wanted to ask you a million questions. But he bit his tongue.

Yan GB Mulan who got a late start the next day. He was awoken by Mushu with a hearty warrior breakfast. Atleast, that's what Mushu called it. When Ping was told the troops already left, he bolted out of the tent. He scrambled to put his shoes on. As he ran, the first thought in his head is you. His pace quickened. Once he made it, he lined up next to you. Two other men were next to him. Ling and Yao.

Yan GB Mulan who stood at attention next to you as the General greets all of you. Ping became anxious. His hands itched to hold yours. He was pulled out of his thoughts when everyone took a step back, other than Yao. You and Ping watched as the General shot an arrow to the top of a wooden pillar. The General instructed Yao to climb the pillar to retrieve the arrow. The catch was, everyone needed to wear golden weights.

Yan GB Mulan who watched all the other soldiers fail to retrieve the arrow. He fails too, but his focus was on you. He felt so much wrry when you had to climb the poll. Ping bit his knuckles while you made it more than half way up. The moment you start falling, he ran to catch you. He doesn’t care about the stareson him. He only cares about the stares on you. He wants to shield you from them. He also hates that you’re the best soldier. Ping doesn’t understand it. He resents you for it. He wants you back home. He wants to be the one protecting you.

Yan GB Mulan who tried his best to perfect all the training practices but with no success. Ping fell everytime and caused the other soldiers to slow down. He felt like a burden. This was not what he wanted. Luckily, he had you to help him up everytime. Mushu watches from afar with Cri-kee. The dragon can’t help but joke about the heart eyes the boy had whenever he looked at you. His failures, however, make it to the General.

Yan GB Mulan who is met with the General one night. The General had Ping's horse. This wasn't a good sign. He was told to leave. Ping couldn't leave. He needed to prove himself. Not as a man, but to show that he's capable of being independent. Mot importantly, he doesn't want to leave you. So he found the weights, and climbed up the wooden pillar. He made it as the sun rose. He was greeted with cheers. Your cheering was the clearest to his ears.

Yan GB Mulan who snuck awat one night to bathe. Mushu was talking over him, which he grew used to. Ping had a towel wrapped around him to hide what he was. More specifically, what he didn’t want to be. It was stupid, but he’d rather be safe than sorry. Once in the lake, he had Mushu stand watch. Three men, Chien Po, Yao, and Ling, came running by and jumped into the lake. Mushu followed, and before any got to close to Ping, Mushu bit one of them. You made it into the lake last. It was just you and Ping alone. He kept his distance. His face was a bright red. How could he handle being naked in a lake with you? It was torture.

Yan GB Mulan who was now marching into battle with all the other soldiers. And you. He became anxious when Ling started to talk about women. More specifically, women that the soldiers were into. He gets asked about his type. What was he supposed to say? You? No! That would give him away! And it wasn’t something he was ready to confess to you. When he was going to confess to you, it would be beautiful. Not marching into death. Ping took to long to answer to you’re asked about your ideal partner. He wanted to push everyone away from you. He can’t handle your answer. What if you say something that he isn’t?

Yan GB Mulan who is relieved you don't get a chance to answer the question. The interruption, however, was saddening. The troops walked into a burned down village. There were no remnants of life left. Ping’s face fell. He reached out to grab your hand. He didn’t want you to see such a thing. As the troup walked treacherously through, Ping found a child’s doll. He touched it gently. The doll seemed well loved. He noticed your hand wasn’t holding his anymore, so he looked over at you. You were in tears. You didn’t make a sound, but the tears flowed down your face. Ping wanted to protect you from the sight. It hurt him even more to see you like this. Before the troops had to continue up the snowy mountain, Ping had placed the child’s doll onto the floor. He propped it up on the sword the General had placed for his dead father.

Yan GB Mulan who was attacked by the huns. Everyone scrambled to run away in the deep snow. They weren’t prepared for the ambush. In his quick thinking, Ping grabbed Mushu and shoved the General away from the firework. He aimed it at the top of the snow mountain, not at the Huns. Ping used Mushu as a lighter and the firework fizzled before it shot up into the sky. There was a silent anxious pause. A rumble then took over. An avalanche! Ping shot up and started to run before the snow had toppled him over. In his escape, Ping searches for you frantically. He catches a glimpse of you about to fall off the cliff. He was not going to let that happen. Chien Po, Yao, and Ling quickly follow to help you both up.

Yan GB Mulan who lifted you in his arms. He’s so grateful to the gods and his ancestors that you were okay. That you were alive. He nearly forgot the pain in his abdomen. When you brought it up, he panicked. The General had called for a doctor as the rest waited anxiously. You couldn’t handle the suspense. You wanted to make sure Ping was okay. That he was going to survive. Once the doctor was finished, they informed the General of who Ping really was. What he really was. It broke Ping’s heart as he heard all his friends leave him behind. All because of something he couldn’t control being. Of what body parts he had. All for a body that wasn’t his. Mushu, Cri-Kee, and his horse were all that was left. The only ones who didn’t abandon him. At least, that’s what he thought.

Yan GB Mulan who left the tent to go back home. He wasn’t watching where he was walking. His foot had ended up hitting something. He looked down and saw that you had stayed. You stayed. He nudged you gently to awake you. When you were conscious, you jumped up and tackled Ping into a hug. You told him that you knew of his true identity the whole time. In fact, you had followed him here to make sure he would be okay. He teared up at the sentiment. You really were his. Ping took this chance to introduce you to Mushu too.

Yan GB Mulan who rushes after the troop that had left him. You were riding with him on the back of his horse. You held onto Mushu and Cri-Kee. You four managed to make it. The parade going on made it difficult to gain the attention of the surrounding people. It was so frustrating when everyone ignored Ping. They even ignored you. Ping quickly hopped off his horse. He tried to prevent you from following, but you practically threw yourself off his horse. He sighed, however, he grabbed your hand and led you through the crowd. He made sure no one touched you as you two rushed to try and find the General. The two of you tried to get someone to listen.

Yan GB Mulan who ends up getting help from you, Chien Po, Yao, and Ling. He dresses the four of you up in women’s clothing and traditional makeup as disguises. He paused when he saw you. You looked so beautiful. Granted, you looked amazing in anything you wore. The love sick gaze he held was short-lived. Yao had punched his arm to get his attention back to the task at hand. The five of you set out, and succeeded to get inside the castle. The General had joined in too. Ping, you, and the other three men had fought off the hun soldiers, allowing the General to go after the emperor. Once all the huns were knocked out, you five ran down the hall to where the emperor had been taken. Ping distracted Shan Yu so Chien Po could take the emperor away.

Yan GB Mulan who is urged to cut the rope to prevent Shan Yu to follow after the emperor. He also pulls you away to keep you safe. You were not going to be one of Shan Yu’s victims. Not when you’ve gotten this far. While he has you against his chest, Ping shows Shan Yu who he really is. Or, well, who Shan Yu thinks he is. When Shan Yu became violent, you were quick to react. You pulled Ping behind you as you started to run. As you run, you tell Mushu and Cri-Kee to go to the fireworks. As they rush off, you and Ping end up on the roof. When the dragon gives you the signal, you have Ping duck. Mushu had the fireworks aimed at Shan Yu. Ping took the commotion as a distraction. He grabbed you once more to pull you off the roof. He uses himself to cushion your landing. It was finally over. Ping had saved China.

Yan GB Mulan who was awarded with the sword, the jian, for his honor. He had also been titled an honorary prince. He was truly recognized as a man. A man with true honor. As even more recognition from the emperor, Ping was also given a medallion with a dragon carved on it. He couldn't help the tight hug that followed. The both of you cried in so much joy as you held onto each other. He was finally able to go home. And he had gained the confidence to face his father.

Yan GB Mulan who brings his father the medallion that resembled his honor. Ping presented the jian to his father as well. He took this chance to finally explain to his father who he truly was. What he was. Ping was appalled that his father's response was to hug him. He embraced it. Ping wanted to cry. When he felt you hugging him from behind, the dam broke. He was so happy. Ping was finally home. He was finally him.

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Property of @secretcoralgarden! Do not repost or translate without my explicit permission! Reblogs are welcome!

[sinnabarmoth]

Taking Care

Pairing: Rafayel x Fem|Reader

Prompt: Mini fic of Reader being a soft!dom with the lads. (Not necessarily sexual, just sweet 'let me take care of you' vibes)

Word count: 1k

Links to the other lads: (Sylus) (Xavier) (Zayne)

You hadn’t heard from Rafayel in a couple days which was…concerning. For someone that got upset when you forgot to text him at least once a day his radio silence was baffling. You texted, you called, but nothing. You even tried asking Thomas but he just shrugged and said that sometimes when Rafayel was working on a new piece he went full hermit mode. No one but the food delivery driver was going to see him.

You decided that just wouldn’t do. You knew how Rafayel was and you would not put it past him to forget to eat or sleep because he was too in the zone while working. So you went to the store to buy some ingredients for a home cooked dinner and went to his place. You let yourself in using the spare key he had given you and wandered in. No signs of life in the living room or kitchen. You put the groceries away and went to the studio.

Sure enough, there he was. He was sat in the middle of the floor hunched over a canvas. There was some old half eaten food containers shoved off to the side and various sketches scattered around the floor.

“Raf,” you said, “Still alive over there?”

He sat up straight and you could hear his bones crack as he straightened. You could see him wince as he stretched and turned to look at you. “Oh hi,” he said, “What are you doing here?”

“You weren’t answering your phone, I came to check on you.” you got closer and noticed that his entire person was covered in smudges of paint both fresh and dried. His hair was greasy and lank, and there were huge bags under his eyes. There was also an undeniable funk coming off of him that made your nose wrinkle. “Good thing I did too. What on earth are you doing?”

“Inspiration called and I had to answer.” he gestured to the painting. “She’s nearly done. I’ve been adding the finishing touches.”

“Okay. Glad to know you’ve been working hard but this is too much. You smell terrible and when was the last time you slept?”

“I don’t need sleep.”

“Yes, you very much do.” you held out your hand, “You can finish your painting tomorrow. You’re mine tonight.”

“Oh really?”

“Not in that way. Come on.” you hauled him to his feet and pulled him into the bathroom.

“Cutie, this really isn’t necessary--”

“Raf, sweetie,” you cupped his face, “You don’t look well. I knew there was a chance you weren’t taking care of yourself but I didn’t realize it was this bad. Now come along, we’re gonna get you cleaned up, I’m making us dinner, and then you are going to bed. Got it?”

“I know better than to say no to you.” he smiled. “What do you want me to do first?”

“You can start by brushing your teeth and having a shave, you’re stubbly.” you turned him to the sink. “I’m gonna draw you a bath.”

After he had finished you ordered him to strip and get in the tub. There was a cheeky offer to join him but you shook your head and told him he wasn’t getting anything like that until after he had a full night’s sleep. You did however sit at the edge of the tub and reclined his head back so you could wash his hair and massage his scalp. A deep sigh of satisfaction left him as you gently lathered the grease out of his hair. You left him to dry himself off and went to the bedroom to grab a change of clothes and threw his dirty clothes in the wash.

He looked so much better. “There’s my clean soft boyfriend again.” Without having to worry about his bad breath you pulled him down and gave him a kiss, little droplets of water from his still wet hair dripped onto your hands. “Feeling any better?”

“Much.”

“Good. Now come along. I’m gonna get dinner started.”

“Want any help?”

“No. You’ll just slow me down. You can pick out a movie for us to watch though.” you pulled him into the living room and sat him down on the couch. “Stay.”

“Yes ma’am.” he gave a little salute and turned on the TV. You went into the kitchen and started cooking. It wasn’t anything extravagant, just some simple porridge that was filling and hearty.

As you were cooking you kept glancing over at Rafayel just to make sure he was still doing okay. It broke your heart seeing how little he was taking care of himself. Was this what he was like before? How many times had he done something like this? Did Thomas pull him out of his spirals or did he end up just crashing and took care of himself after he got some actual sleep? You didn’t want to know. He had you now and you weren’t going to let him keep up these kinds of bad habits. Inspiration be damned! His health mattered more to you.

Once the food was ready you handed a large serving over to him, threw a blanket over your laps, and settled down to watch the movie he had picked. “Thanks for doing all this. It wasn’t necessary though. I was fine.”

“You were most decidedly not fine, Raf.” you ran a hand through his hair. “You looked like death warmed over and smelled just as bad. It’s not just you anymore, you have to take better care of yourself, doesn’t matter about inspiration. I want you healthy. And if you can’t be trusted to take care of yourself then I’ll do it for you.”

“I’m glad to have such an attentive caretaker.” he leaned his head on your shoulder. “I might just fall asleep right here.”

“Not until after you eat.” you picked up a spoonful of porridge and brought it to his mouth. “Eat.”

“You’re also a very no nonsense kind of caretaker.” Rafayel sighed but happily opened his mouth to accept the porridge.

“I don’t mess around when it comes to caring for what I love.” you kissed the top of his head. “Now keep eating, we’ll go to bed in a bit.”

After dinner was eaten and the movie finished Rafayel was really close to nodding off. He had started slipping about three quarters of the way through the film. When you asked him if he wanted to go to bed he shook his head and said he wanted to finish the movie first. You figured he was just too comfortable curled up next to you to want to move. But when the credits started rolling you dragged him off to the bedroom so he could have a sleep in a proper bed.

You snuggled in next to him, holding him close. “Good night, Raf. Sweet dreams.”

“So long as you are here, I know they will be.” he sighed, his eyes slipping closed. “I love you.”

You smiled and kissed his sleeping face. “Love you too.”

[wardingshout]

Zelda goes mushroom girl

[ryusaidate]

quick redraw of this from last year because i needed to feel good about myself :V

[mirrortouchedsea]

(CW for Suicidal Ideation)

Hinata’s breath was heavy as he landed the final move of their act. The tinny music playing from their speakers went quiet and the audience clapped politely. It was always the same song and dance as the crowd moved on with their day. A few of them tossed some yen their way but otherwise it was time for them to regroup for their next performance. Yuta knelt down by the hat with some coins and bills sticking out of it, counting their earnings thus far. 

“Hey aniki! We might be able to eat well tonight! There’s like 3,000 yen in here!” Yuta exclaimed. The idea of a filling dinner made Hinata’s mouth water. Oh what he wouldn’t do for even warm noodles not from a cup. 

Hinata turned to grab the iPod from its place on the speaker, choosing the next song to play. He put the phone back and turned the volume up a little more to play over the evening rush. The music started and he and Yuta moved in unison around their little stage, taking in the crowd. There were some regulars that Hinata recognized, the businesswoman who was perpetually tired but always stopped for their performances and a few kids who looked up at them in awe as their parents were trying to usher them away. There were always new faces too, of course people traveled across the country all the time or took new trains or moved cities, but there was something different about the boy with the bright red hair at the back of the crowd. His sky blue eyes pierced straight through to Hinata’s heart and made him stumble when their gaze connected with his own. 

“Hey, aniki focus! We’re almost done, don't fail on me now!” Yuta whispered, carefully shielding Hinata from the crowd as he regained his footing. Yuta was always so quick thinking. Hinata got back to his position and finished up the routine, eyes looking for that boy he had spotted earlier. He half hoped the boy would come talk to them afterwards while they were packing up for the evening, but when he finally saw that shock of red hair, it was moving away with the rest of the crowd. 

Hinata sighed, disappointed. Maybe that boy would come back someday. There was something about him that drew Hinata in. 

Someone bumped his shoulder, drawing him from his thoughts. “Hey, aniki, are you alright? You seem out of it today.” Yuta’s hand rested on his shoulder and Hinata couldn’t help but smile. Wasn’t it supposed to be the other way around, the older brother checking in on the younger one? 

“Hey hey everything’s fine Yuta-kun, don’t worry about me. I was just thinking about that delicious dinner you’re treating us too~” He playfully pushed back on Yuta, the red haired blue eyed boy all but forgotten now. 

“Hey! It’s technically our money so I’m not treating you to anything!” Yuta scowled but the smile in his voice was obvious to Hinata. 

“Hehe, then dinner’s on me! Say ‘thank you aniki!’” 

--- 

It was a week before Hinata saw the red headed boy in their audience again. He had all but slipped his mind, but those striking blue eyes were impossible to forget. Yuta was introducing their next performance which allowed Hinata to take a better look at the older boy who had made his way to the middle of the audience. He was tall and what Hinata could see of his outfit seemed ill-fitting at best, along with a headband holding his hair away from his eyes. 

Hinata scrambled to his position as the music queued up and let his instincts take over. Every so often he found himself glancing at the red haired boy, trying to see what he thought of their performance, but his face revealed nothing. 

Why was he so focused on this one boy? It’s not like they didn’t have strangers who watched them sometimes, and none of them had caught Hinata’s attention quite like this boy. He really couldn’t be much older than Hinata, maybe 17 at the oldest. Was he an older brother too? The boy’s eyes made contact with Hinata’s and it took everything in him to not look away. 

Once again however, Yuta snapped him out of whatever trance he had been in and everything was forgotten. 

“Are you really okay aniki? You’ve been out of it a lot recently…” Oh how it pained Hinata to see the concern on Yuta’s face. Nothing was even really wrong per se, but Hinata was distracted nonetheless. 

“I’m fine, Yuta-kun. Geez, can’t your older brother have some peace?” His mouth ran faster than his brain and he immediately regretted it. Yuta’s face flipped through several emotions; hurt, confusion, exhaustion. It wasn’t like him to hide things from his brother, so why was he doing it now? “Whatever, let’s get some dinner. My treat~” 

“It’s our money!” 

--- 

The boy continued to make appearances at the twins’ performances on the street, becoming something of a regular but disappearing before Hinata could flag him down. Hinata wasn’t even sure what compelled him to want to talk to the older boy, but he wanted to say something. He had even noticed that the boy seemed happier and his clothes fit a little better, not like they were just the first thing he grabbed out of a donation pile. 

Finally, after almost a month of trying to say something to the boy, Hinata saw him walk up to their hat on the ground and drop a few coins into it. 

“Thank you!” He said, walking up to the boy. “Hope you enjoyed the performance!” 

The boy froze as if he wasn’t expecting to be greeted like that. There was a slight flush to his face. “I-it’s nothing, don’t worry about it. You uh…you were great?” The boy seemed unsure of how to reply, though Hinata was happy with the compliment nonetheless. Maybe… 

“What brings you here? I mean--agh, sorry! I just mean…I noticed you don’t have a regular schedule?” The words were practically falling out of his mouth and Hinata wasn’t really sure what they were doing. “Like you show up a few days in a row but then go three weeks without stopping by at all!” He was just digging a bigger grave for himself! Great! 

“Ah uhm…I’m not from around here.” The boy scratched at the back of his neck. Maybe Hinata should back off. 

“O-oh, yeah of course. Duh. Are you visiting family or something?” 

“Not quite. I really should get going though. See you…later?” 

“Yeah, see you later.” 

“Hey Aniki, are you coming or not? The food’s gonna get cold!” 

“Coming!” 

---

It was almost a month before the boy appeared again. In the time between, Hinata had come up with a million different ideas for what his life was like. Was he a delinquent who skipped school to hang out on the street with gangs (how scary! But he looked strong enough to fit in)? Or was he a runaway from a city far away, somewhere Hinata only dreamed of visiting like Okinawa? Maybe he had a bad relationship with his dad and ran away, a thought that Hinata hated to admit had crossed his mind more than once. Or maybe he just passed through the city on the way to somewhere else. That seemed to be the most likely option, especially if he couldn’t come very often. 

When the boy did finally show up again, Hinata had to hold himself back from practically jumping him after the performance. Something looked…different about him though. His eyes seemed more tired? Like he hadn’t been sleeping well. Hinata thought of a fight he had with his dad a few weeks ago that made it hard for him to sleep and thought maybe this boy was the same as him in that regard. 

Hinata decided to wave him down after the performance, hat in hand (they had done pretty well! It felt heavier than normal and even without counting everything, they’d probably have enough for breakfast too). 

“Hey! You look tired, are you--did you want to get something to eat?” Please say yes please say yes please say yes--

The boy’s mouth opened, then closed, then opened again. Did Hinata mess up? Oh he overstepped and now there really wasn’t any chance of getting to know him. Why was he so interested in talking to the boy anyway? Hinata had been asking himself that for a while now and he still had no answer. 

“I…I can’t. I need to go.” The boy turned and ran off before Hinata could ask more. He just kept messing up, didn’t he? Maybe he really was just a burden to Yuta and their dad and the restaurant owner. He shouldn’t have been born and Yuta would’ve been better off--

“Aniki! Sheesh, get your head out of the clouds. How much did we make?” Yuta grabbed the hat out of Hinata’s hand and quickly counted out the coins and bills. “Woah! We could eat a whole five course meal with this…” 

“Think with your head a little Yuta-kun. We’ve got breakfast paid for if we don’t blow it all tonight!” 

Yuta nodded before handing the hat back to Hinata. “So, my pick tonight?” 

--- 

Hinata signed the note, trying his best to keep the tears from dripping on it and smudging the ink. After his blunder with the red haired boy, he hadn’t shown up to their performances for over two months. Hinata was certain that he had messed up and was too forward. He didn’t even know the kid’s name! Why did he think the two of them could ever be friends? 

And on top of all of that, Yuta had become more and more distant from Hinata, as if Hinata just existing was dragging him back from his full potential. Yuta would have been better off as an only child and maybe Hinata deserved this life. Thirteen years living with their father, who had treated them as nothing but monsters, blaming them for their mother’s death and everything bad that had happened since, Hinata had resolved to run away. He’d make his way to the mountains and maybe he’d find someone willing to help him or maybe he’d slip into an endless sleep. 

Dear Yuta-kun, the letter had started. I’m sorry that I’m leaving like this, but I know that I’m just a burden to you. I’m sorry for that. I wish I had more to say but I just want you to be happy and maybe father will treat you better without me. I love you. 

The other letter, already folded and placed on the table, was much shorter, addressed to his father. 

Dear Father, I’m sorry I couldn’t be a better son. Please don’t take this out on Yuta-kun, it was my decision. 

The less words he spent on that man, the better. Hinata folded Yuta’s note and placed it on top before quietly exiting through the front door. 

---

Everything was cold. Hinata slumped against a tree, head between his knees in a last ditch effort to keep warm. Sleep should come soon and he could painlessly move on, at least that’s what he hoped. He barely registered someone approaching him, but didn’t look up. 

“Hey.” The voice was vaguely familiar, but where did he remember it from? A warm hand shook at Hinata’s shoulder. 

“‘M fine.” The words were barely a whisper. The other voice grunted before walking away. It was another minute before Hinata felt something drape around his shoulders and a cup shoved in his hand. Whatever was in it was steaming, warming his fingers. 

“Drink.” The voice said. And he did, the tea was very, very bitter. That voice… 

Hinata looked up, meeting a pair of bright, sky blue eyes. That’s where he recognized the voice from. Did he…live? In the mountains? The boy seemed to recognize him too. He was wearing a headband and what looked like very warm clothes that Hinata wished he had. Hinata finished the tea, trying not to focus on the flavor. It helped at least, in warming him up a bit. 

“Why are you here?” The boy finally spoke again. It sounded like he was unsure if he should be mad or concerned, or both, but he offered Hinata another cup of tea, which he accepted if only to warm his fingers up. He pulled the blanket closer around his body. 

“I…ran away.” Hinata looked downward, as if admitting this out loud was a cardinal sin. The boy gestured for him to continue. “I guess I just…I was dragging my brother down. I’m not really talented at anything like he is and I’m the reason our dad sees us as monsters. He shouldn’t have to deal with a brother like me.” Hinata wasn’t really sure why he was spilling this so easily. The boy was a good listener though, hanging on every word Hinata spoke. Was he shaking? He’d never admitted this out loud before and it felt oddly freeing to say it to someone. 

He waited for a response, anything to chase away the uncomfortable silence Hinata had created with his confession. He really fucked up, didn’t he. He should have just kept that to himself like he always did instead of burdening a stranger like this! 

“I…” The boy started, barely audible above Hinata’s racing heartbeat. “I’m glad you’re alive.” He sounded unsure of his words. Was he just trying to be nice? Of course he was, how else do you respond to a kid telling you something like this? 

“You don’t have to pretend.” 

“I’m not. When I saw you singing and dancing…I think I realized something--” The boy cut himself off, the suddenness of it making Hinata look up. A moment later he heard his brother calling out from the woods behind him. 

“Aniki! There you are!” Yuta tackled him to the ground, squeezing Hinata like he might just blow away in the wind if they weren’t careful. “You scared me! I can’t believe you’d do something like that!” 

Tears pricked at Hinata’s eyes again. “I’m sorry, Yuta-kun. I’m really sorry.” He buried his face in Yuta’s jacket. His nose started to run, from the cold or the tears he couldn’t tell. 

“You aren’t a burden to me. I don’t know what I’d do without you around Aniki!” Yuta pulled back, hands gripping Hinata’s shoulders. “Promise you won’t do something that stupid again.” 

Hinata wiped the tears from his eyes, sparing a glance where the boy had been. It was as if he had never been there at all and Hinata had just hallucinated the whole interaction. He looked back at his twin brother. “I promise.” 

“Now let's get you home and warmed up. Where’d you get this blanket anyway? It doesn’t look like one of ours.” 

“I…” The boy had been real, and he told Hinata he was glad he was alive (even if his explanation was cut short by Hinata’s brother rushing in). “I guess I just found it. There must be people living nearby or something.” 

--- 

The chatter of the night club died down for the night as everyone was getting ready to go home. Hinata’s feet were sore from running around, but it was satisfying to be back in a restaurant like this. It reminded him of his childhood working for the Chinese restaurant with Yuta. 

Rinne, the leader of Crazy:B who had wanted to get closer to Hinata, and by extension 2wink, slid a drink down the bar. It looked like a horrible mix of syrups and club soda, but one sip was all it took for Hinata to drink it all down. 

“Great job tonight Hina! You’re a real natural at this stuff.” Rinne was washing the other glasses behind the bar now as Hinata finished the rest of his soda. 

“Yuta-kun and I used to work in a restaurant so it comes pretty naturally to us!” 

“That so?” 

“Mhm!” Hinata slid the empty glass back to Rinne, who quickly dumped the ice and washed it before tossing the towel over his shoulder. The entire week they’d been working the club together, there had been something bugging Hinata at the back of his mind. “Hey, Rinne-senpai…did you ever watch our shows?” 

“Huh? ‘Course I have, vice prez wants us to work together so I’ve seen a few of ‘em.” 

“That’s not what I mean. I mean like…back when Yuta-kun and I did street performances.” 

Rinne paused for a moment. “Why’re you askin’?” 

“Oh, it’s nothing. You just reminded me of someone who used to watch them.” 

“Well I’m sure whoever it was is proud to see you singin’ and dancin’ on stage.” Rinne had come around the bar and stood next to Hinata, ruffling his hair. “Let’s get goin’ or I’m never gonna hear the end of it from Niki-kun.” 

[inkbagel]

This collab I joined like eight months ago that I didn’t really enjoy being in finally got posted today but for some reason only on twitter and I don’t go there so I can’t even see the whole thing :/

[danielnelsen]

huh i remember grymforge being really hard to navigate and really frustrating but it’s literally fine lmao. did everything except the actual forge today and that’s all i have left of act 1

[bulletproofbandits]

Death comes... dressed in leather!!

Remake of the comic cover art

[ethernitty]

love that the tailoring study i gave as second choice has like a thing saying which skills you need one of which being like knowledge of trends...... like yeaaaaaaah i dont fucking know the trends because 1 ive not been among people that arent my family in months 2 fashion moves so fucking quick nowadays and fucking 3 im not interested in trends and therefore i dont seek them out

[hauntingblue]

Can't believe I spent so much time thinking kiku and kinemon were dead... they really got me there...

[youngpettyqueen]

me: ok Charleshawk on the brain gonna write a bunch of stuff for them

a Houlihawk idea winding up to blindside me at work:

[sysig]

I have made

the rough

of an improv card game

[todayisafridaynight]

Prior to sending the ask I was just guessing what matrophobia meant based on the root words but I looked it up after and went ohhhh and then you confirmed that extra dimension to it and I went OHHHHH

I think that gets to the heart of what I've been thinking about, that bittersweetness, because despite his best efforts... of course he could never end up anything like Yoko, but he still ended up with an abusive "household." Because in addition to Masato ending up how he did, he has to see those same situations play out, feel that same tension in the air between Jo and Ichi, over and over for almost a decade straight.

Like, in a way, he's forced to put himself in Toshio's shoes when that happens. He can't really get through to Jo, in the same way Toshio can't get through to Yoko, but he can try to step in before lasting damage is done, and he can try to make it bearable for his son. You know. Have a nice talk. Treat him to Peking duck. I'm SO normal about the (drawn-out) parallels of those scenes

So then with Jo... he kind of does become his father, even if he never wanted to (no one wants to), both through his ruinous neglect of Masato at birth and through how he comes to look at discipline and corporal punishment. I'm sure it's not lost on him in Masato's case (owww), but with Ichi, it's not like he has any reason to see him as his son... But How Far Can That Take You.

Because it's like, at the start, he was openly beating Ichi in front of Arakawa and not letting up much when Arakawa intervened. But then you have The Yubitsume Scene and Arakawa walking in on All That and... he looks sorry. Sorry for being caught, probably, but sorry nonetheless. Like... what changed between then and now... have you two had a Heartfelt Conversation... do you know where Arakawa got that scar... are you unable to change your "nature" even then...

Side note bro your SHOE is the size of his TORSO I promise you do not need to kick him with all the strength you've got like what the hell is this 😭😭😭

BUT ALL THAT ASIDE thank you so much for delving into the symbolism! Wonderful read. I don't really have an eye for symbolism, so that makes it all the more enjoyable to revisit the comic and everything with what you've gone into. I think a lot of your experiences resonate with mine, so conversely I'm not sure what others would take away from it, BUT I think there's enough there that's so insightful and evocative that it's effective without personal experience. I don't think there's anything I could add, so. Yeah. For once I am happy to sit back and take it all in... On that note, definitely looking forward to your next comic!

AUUUGH YEAAAH YEAHEYA HYEAH THAT EXACTLY OUUUGH OWIEE OWW.....

that's literally it though. like no extra notes. except The Obligatory Few i dont think it was an accident that arakawa is set up as the beginning of the game's 'protagonist' and planting that 'troubled family' taste first thing in our mind. i remember how i felt when i first saw arakawa walk in on jo and ichi and then arakawa taking ichi out for dinner i was just like🧍‍♂️Girl No The Cycle.... It's Continuing...... //screams// LIKE UGH IT WAS SO GOOD BUT ALSO OWWW STOPPP and then on the REPLAY it just hurts more cause with the added context to jo's character its like Oh No...... You're Your Father's Son....

and youre right: jo doesn't have an implicit reason to see how he treats ichi is wrong, hence he similarly doesnt have any reason to stop- not unless arakawa intervenes of course (and i will stand outside my window thinking of the possibility arakawa ever did try to have A Conversation with jo... arms folded behind my back and all like Man™️....)

oh but yeah, absolutely no problem ! im lowkey of an egotist so i do like to talk bout the stuff i make. More In Depth (though thats obvious considering the fuckin essays in the tags i always leave ☠️☠️) gerjlgaELKjg. so i was happy to explain ♪(´▽｀) !! what i like about symbolism is that it can be intentional or not, and the fun is always finding it just by chance. i cant explain it properly, but i just think its a neat 'seasoning' of sorts to drawings (❁´◡`❁)

[shithowdy]

this is your periodic reminder that for all the artifacts and errors and "tells" one could possibly list, the only reliable way to actually determine if an image is ai generated is to investigate the source. it is becoming increasingly common for "fake classical paintings" to circulate around curative aesthetic blogs, and everyone should be using this as an opportunity to not only exercise their investigative skills but also appreciate art more in general. you're all checking out the artists you reblog, right? 🫣

so what are some signs to look for? let's use this very good example.

what a lovely late-impressionist piece blended with evocative leyendecker-esque themes! why haven't you ever heard of this artist before? surely tumblr would be all over an artist like this. who is justin brown?

your two options from here are to do a search for the name, or a reverse image search. i prefer reverse image searching, particularly when it comes to a common name like "justin brown". so what does that net?

Immediately, without looking at any text, something is wrong: it barely exists. an actual historical piece would turn up numerous results from websites individually discussing the piece, but no such discussions are taking place. Looking at the text, though, does show the source-- and at least in this case, the creator was honest about their medium.

But let's also look at the "exact matches", in case a source doesn't make itself apparent in the initial sidebar results like this.

This section will often tell you post dates of images, and here it can be seen that the very first iteration of the image was posted 15 days ago. It did not exist online prior to that.

Seeing how long an unsourced image has been floating around is a skill applicable to more than just generative images! See a cool image of an artifact or other intriguing item with a vivid caption? Reverse search it! If all the results are paired with that caption and only go back a few months, you might just have viral facebook spam.

Sometimes generative creators are dishonest about their medium and do not tag it like in the example, so that's when establishing "jpeg provenance" becomes important. While it can be a little trickier to determine if someone is using generative images and not admitting to it if they aren't trying to pass it off as a classic, something to consider is the age of their account and the frequency with which they post. Here are some account red flags:

-Did they only start posting art after 2022, or if they did before, did their style/skill level WILDLY change? Not gradual improvement-- I'm talking amateur graphite portraits straight into complex digital renders. Everyone starts somewhere, newness is not a red flag alone; it's newness combined with existing in a vacuum away from any community.

-Do they post fully-finished paintings several times a week? -Do many of these paintings seem iterative of a similar theme or subject matter ("three well-dressed young men face each other under shade and dappled sunlight")?

-Does their style change in inconsistent ways? An artist that can swap between painting like Drew Struzan and Hokusai should be pretty well known, right? Why is no one hyping this guy?!

-Do they have social media besides the source instagram? If so, what are they posting about? Are there any WIPs? Doodles? Interactions with other artists? Gallery dates? 3am self-doubt posts? Or is it all self-promo? Crypto? Seemingly nothing art-related at all for someone pushing out 3 weekly paintings?

Basically, if it's important to you to omit this stuff when you curate, please don't just smash reblog if the source doesn't seem to be the OP themselves. Seeking out sources was important even before this became an issue, now it is more than ever.

peace n love