#jasmin should date me already

[corkinavoid]

DPxDC When You Are Suddenly Dating a Princess (pt. 2)

[<- part 1]

"What do you mean-" Jason starts, but the girl is already tapping her ear briefly - and only now does he notice a tiny comm there. Fuck, he should have known.

"Oscar? I changed my mind, I want to claim something," Jazz says easily, and, after a short pause, "A Tecpatl, the one with the owl. No, it's for personal reasons- You don't have to, but alright." She taps her ear again, and Jason can't help but ask:

"Who's Oscar?" He is not jealous. He is just insanely curious and very confused.

"My bodyguard," Jazz rolls her eyes, "At least he thinks he is. I'd say he is more of a secretary."

That doesn't really explain anything. It actually just adds even more questions - what kind of a magic user needs a bodyguard? or a secretary, for that matter? - but Jason keeps them to himself for now. He is... kind of intrigued now. Jazz said 'claim', not 'buy'. Which might be just a weird word choice, but somehow, Jason thinks it was deliberate.

A bald, black-skinned guy in a black suit and sunglasses - which, seriously, how does he even see a thing in here with those on - makes his way through the crowd and stops in front of Jazz, nodding slightly to her.

"Lady Phantom, I understand you want to make an impression, but using your status for personal matters-"

"Did I ask for your opinion, Oscar?" Jazz's voice doesn't change. It's still pleasant and sweet, and she is still smiling, if just a bit, but there's an unmistakable steel edge to her tone now. Jason feels a light shiver run down his spine. He's seen Jazz in a lot of different situations and circumstances; he's seen her get mad at a librarian who banned some controversial books in the public library, and he's seen her skillfully take down an armed robbery in a shop all by herself, and he's even seen her successfully stare down Killer Croc on one occasion.

Yet, he's never seen her like this, with her chin raised up high and radiating authority like she is the most powerful person in the room.

Also, Lady Phantom?..

"No," Oscar admits after a pause and presses his lips together, "But the Council of Ancients will not be pleased."

"Council of Ancients couldn't care less even if I declared war," Jazz brushes the comment off, and Jason's levels of confusion are growing higher and higher with every word they exchange. Oscar sighs and finally complies:

"Very well, then," he breathes out with a sense of surrender, and then turns his head to Jason just slightly, "Is this an urgent matter, or should I go talk to the auctioneer and the sellers?"

Jazz looks to Jason, raising her eyebrows in question. And, technically, it's not that much of a time crunch now since Jason doesn't have to try and sneak through the security or wait for the auction to start officially. But he feels a bit petty. Also, this man was questioning his girlfriend, which is offensive on many levels in Jason's opinion.

So, he nods, "Urgent."

Oscar's face doesn't change one bit, but Jason has plenty of experience with emotionally inept men who look like they are eternally constipated. He can see the traces of exasperation in Oscar's shoulders.

"Follow me, then," he tells them both, and turns around, headed to the back of the auction rooms. There's security there, but Oscar only shows them some kind of a badge, and they step aside, letting the three of them through. As far as Jason knows, no FBI or CIA agents should have that kind of clearance.

Which finally prompts him to ask the most important question as soon as the doors behind them close and it's only them three going through an empty hallway.

"Who are you?" He asks Jazz, who is still keeping her hand on his elbow. The girl hums, not looking at him, and keeps walking after Oscar.

"Jasmine Fenton," she answers, and, yes, he knows that much. He's seen the files Bruce has on her, but at this point, he is not even sure how much of the info in there was actually true.

"You are in the presence of Jasmine Fenton, Lady of the House Phantom, Princess of Infinite Realms and sister to a King," Oscar supplies, and his voice is... a bit petty. Like he knows Jazz didn't want him to say anything, but he still did just because he could.

Jazz huffs and rolls her eyes, "Yes, that, too."

Jason blinks.

He's heard about Infinite Realms. Mostly rumors through the grapevine of Leaguers, but also from Diana personally - he remembers her saying she is glad about having a truce with them. He didn't listen much since she explained it as the Underworld, the Land of the Dead, so he thought she was talking about some mythology shit. Turns out it wasn't.

But there's a more important thing.

"I'm dating a princess," he says to no one in particular as they come to a stop in front of one of the doors.

"Technically, you'll be treated as my consort if you ever decide to visit," Jazz admits, and Jason is officially out of surprised responses. There's only a limited amount of bafflement he can feel in a day, and he has exhausted the resources.

He is a royal consort of the Underworld princess. Sure, why not.

The room they step into after Oscar puts in some code into the lock is filled with boxes, packages, and crates. Jason looks around - sure, he knew all the prettily displayed artifacts back in the auction room were only replicas, but he didn't expect the originals to be literally just stacked in piles in the back room. Yet, here they are.

Oscar looks around the room and confidently makes his way to one of the shelves on the side, quickly going through the labels on the containers.

"Do you have, like, a crown?" Jason asks because he sucks at small talk. Also because he doesn't know what else he is supposed to ask in this kind of situation. Jazz snorts and leans to him, resting her head on his shoulder.

"Not really. Danny has one, and it looks absolutely badass, with flames on top of it, like the ones you would see in cartoons. I have some tiaras and stuff, but they are just jewelry," she explains, and Jason nods sagely. Just jewelry, alright. Seems like he is simply destined to be surrounded by rich people from all sides.

"How about a castle?"

This gets a sigh out of Jazz, "We used Pariah's - that's the previous King - old one for the coronation ceremony, but mostly, it's just for storage. Both Danny and I live on Earth, and Dani, our little sister, travels a lot. So, I do, and I don't at the same time."

"What about-" Jason starts, but he is cut off by Oscar all but shoving a small box in his hands, "Oh. Do I-" he turns to his girlfriend awkwardly, "Do I have to pay you for it or..."

"No, it's from a dead civilization," she raises her head back and shakes it slightly, but after seeing Jason's frown, she elaborates, "I'm the Princess of the Dead. I can officially claim anything that belongs to the dead as mine."

"It's a law that is supposed to resolve any possible conflicts between the denizens of Infinite Realms and the living," Oscar supplies, his voice disapproving. Alright, makes sense why he said it was not for personal matters, then. Not that it's going to stop Jason, though.

"Like, anything?" He punctuates, and Jazz tilts her head, a sly smile on her lips.

"Sure."

"Lady Phantom," Oscar sighs, tired and chastising, but Jason doesn't plan on robbing the auction. At least not robbing it any more than they already did.

He has a different idea.

"Can you ask Batman for the Robin's suit he has in his cave?"

Jazz blinks, and then her smile turns into a full-on grin.

"Of course."

------------

@akuworld777

[oneforthemunny]

autumn changes |mafia!eddie munson x reader|

prompt: you and eddie take bea to the farmer's market to pick out a pumpkin.

still on my fall shit lol. feeling hormonal and longing for a child, so a domestic soft dad!mafia!eddie x mom!reader fic was in order bc i said so lol. very fluffy and sweet.

“What about the big white ones?” You pointed across the aisle, stepping towards the wooden crate filled with ‘Cinderella Pumpkins’ as the chalk sign read. 

“Oh, look at these Bea, you know what they call these?” You cooed at the little toddler, bouncing her lightly on your hip, her cheek pressed to your shoulder, knuckling her eyes sleepily. The three year old was still a little grumpy about being woken up from her car ride nap. 

“Baby,” Eddie hissed, closing in on you, eyes scanning the crowds. “Stay close to me, alright?” 

You rolled your eyes. “We’re right here, Eddie.” Your tone clipped, shoulders tight with irritation. You knew his protectiveness came from a place of love, pure adoration and devotion for you and Bea both. Still, it was irritating. 

Eddie’s narrowed gaze pierced through you, even behind his darkened sunglasses. A tattooed hand sliding over your waist, squeezing your hip lightly in warning, the same way he used to when you two had first started dating. It sent a chilling thrill of excitement to your core, glancing over your shoulder at him with a small grin. 

“Look, Bumble Bee, these are called Cinderella Pumpkins.” Your voice lifted in a soft coo that had Eddie’s chest tightening with affection. 

“Princess?” Bea’s eyes lit up, perking up from her sullen state at the mention of one of her beloved Disney Princesses. Though she was favoring Jasmine these days, she was still a fan of any of them. 

“Mhm,” You hummed, holding her close to your chest. “What do you think, should we get those?” 

“Yes,” Bea wiggled, trying to push out of your arms, ready to get down and run around. “Get-Get the big one, Mommy.” She pointed a finger over towards the rather large white pumpkin on the ground. 

“The big one?” You gasped lightly, bouncing her on your hip so she shook with laughter, giggles trilling out in a soft screech. 

“You gotta ask Daddy if we can get the big one.” You muttered lightly, turning towards Eddie. “He’s the one who’s gotta carry it.” 

Eddie’s lips curled in a half smile, your cheek pressed to Bea’s, face to face; the two of you looked so alike. He always told you that. You’d roll your eyes, scoff and insist she was his twin, but he saw more of you in her every day. 

“Can we get the big one, Daddy?” Bea reached for Eddie, practically launching herself in his arms. “Please? I asked really, really nicely.” She curled into him, cheek pressed to his shoulder, looking up at him with big brown eyes rounded so sweetly- a look she definitely got from you. 

“You did ask nicely, thank you.” Eddie hummed, running a hand over her messy hair, tangled from the wind. “What do you think, sweetheart? Do you want one or two for the porch?” He looked at you, already reaching for his wallet in the back of his jeans. 

“Probably two. I can put them on either side of the door.” Eddie passed you his wallet, keeping a careful eye on you as you walked to the front to pay. He scanned the crowds again, letting Bea babble away to him about the different things she saw, humming in response lightly as he watched. Eddie knew Gareth was lurking around somewhere, no doubt scanning the crowds just as he was. 

“Hey, Ed,” You called, breaking him from his trance. “She said they have wheelbarrows you can borrow to load them to the car if you want.” 

“Oh,” Bea squealed, turning towards Eddie so quickly she almost hit him in the face. “Can I ride in the wheelbarrow?” 

“Ride in the wheelbarrow?” You parroted with a grin. “Why do you wanna ride in that, hm? Are you a pumpkin now?” 

“Nooo,” Bea giggled, leaning back to look at you. “I just wanna ride in it.” 

You eyed her playfully. “Hm, maybe if you ask nicely.”  

“Please?” Bea added quickly, already squirming to get out of Eddie’s arms, sending his heart lurching with panic. 

You didn’t seem bothered, pulling the wheelbarrow off the ground, maneuvering it towards the pumpkins. “Fine, but let me load these in first, ok?” 

“Let me get them.” Eddie clicked, reaching a hand out to stop you before you could wrangle the obnoxiously large pumpkin up. “I got it, baby. You hold her.” He passed Bea to you, bending down to lift the pumpkin, hoping his rings didn’t stab it like last time. 

“Are you going to help me decorate when we get home?” You cooed to Bea, swaying her lightly like you did when she was a newborn. You knew she was too old, all the parenting books told you that, but it was a habit- one that soothed the both of you. 

“Yes,” Bea grinned, curling in closer to you. “I’ll help you, Mama. We can put the bats up.” 

Eddie’s heart burst with warm joy at her soft sing-songy voice. For all his hesitation and terror about having a baby, he never knew he could love something so much. From the moment she was born, all seven pounds of screaming baby, he’d been so overwhelmed with a feeling of adoration he couldn’t begin to explain. Everyday it seemed to grow, for the both of you- his girls. 

Bea settled on top of the pumpkins, gripping the sides as Eddie pushed slowly over the graveled parking lot, her tiny giggles and squeals of laughter leaving you both beaming with pride. 

“Mama,” Bea turned, leaving both you and Eddie cringing in fear, for a moment, scared she would fall. “Can we make the pun’kins into carriages like on the real Cinderella?” 

“Sure, baby. I think we can craft that.” You smiled, speed stepping to stand beside her, a hand on her back to steady her. 

“We can put bats on them too so-so it’s scary.” Bea giggled. “Right? Because Halloweens ‘sposed to be scary, right, Daddy?” She turned to look at Eddie over her shoulder. 

“That’s right.” Eddie grinned, making his way towards the sleek black car in the parking lot- bigger than the luxury sports cars he had in the past. Safer now and bigger for a baby, his baby. 

You lifted Bea out of the wheelbarrow, carrying her around towards the backseat to buckle her into place, while Eddie loaded the pumpkins in. The car ride back was much louder than the one there, Bea babbling on and on to you and Eddie about Halloween, her costume, the decorations, what candy Grandpa Wayne would have this year. 

Eddie held your hand in between the console, thumb brushing over your knuckles as he allowed himself to relax just for a moment. He let himself feel at peace, safe in the serenity of the car with his family. 

[mochinek0]

Daminette December: 6-That's Mine

Damian walked into the classroom to find everyone shouting. He tried to piece the argument together, but all he heard was it had to do with Marinette. It sounded like some were accusing her of something and the other half were defending her. He looked at his Angel, only to see her trying to keep calm and deep breathing.

"Hey!" said a girl and shoved Mari, "Say something!"

He knew better than to anger his girlfriend, but it seemed this girl didn't. He smirked as she glared down her opponent; the same glare that subdued his father. A quiet flutter caught his ear and he turned to see an akuma aiming it's sights on Marinette.

---

Damian reached out and plucked the akuma from the air. The students fell silent, wondering what his akuma would be. Everyone had a reason, but what was his?

"A new challenger?" Hawkmoth called into his ear, "I am Hawkmoth and-"

He pulled his clenched fist close to his face and growled out, "She's mine. You stay away from her. It's not her time."

He closed his fist and squished the akuma into dust, glaring down at his hand. No one spoke a word.

'He's more dangerous than Hawkmoth!'

'Could he be a miraculous weilder?'

'What if he was Chat Noir?'

'He should be a weilder with Ladybug! They could stop Hawkmoth instantly!'

---

"Hey!" Marinette shouted, bringing everyone out of their shock, "That was mine!"

Damian turned to her and glared, "You wanted to be akumatized?"

"No." She sneered, "I already know how to make them leave me alone, but I do have a question. How did you make it go poof?"

"Killing instinct from Mother." Damian declared.

"That makes sense." she sighed, pulling him out the class door, "Come on. I think My Hero deserves some ice cream."

"Ice cream is a reward for children." he declared.

Marinette stopped, grabbed his shirt and pulled him down into a kiss. The class watched as he kissed back, shattering any doubt that they were together.

"There. My Hero is rewarded and is now treating me to ice cream." she smiled.

Flushed, Damian kept walking, leading her out of the classroom. Everyone else was just confused as to what happened.

'When did Marinette become a badass?'

'She was dating that guy?'

'Mari has akuma repellant?'

"Wait!" cried Rose, "Why would Marinette know how to repel akumas?"

The room fell silent. How many akumas had gone after her, for her to know how to get akumas to leave her alone. How had they not noticed?

@maribat-calendar-events

TAG LIST- DAMINETTE: @meme991001 @umbreon-worshipper @stainedglassm @jasmine-the-fox @psychicdelusionwerewolf @vixen-uchiha @mysteriouschar @missmadwoman @kanamexzeroyaoifangirl @dissarraymania @tundra1029 @abrx2002 @mrsjacuinde @ledalasombra @animegirlweeb

UNSPECIFIED- @animeweebgirl @a-star-with-a-human-name @alysrose-starchild @fandom-trapped-03 @dood-space @moonlightstar64 @saltymiraculer @marveldcedits20 @09shell-sea09 @icerosecrystal @insane-fangirl-of-everything @blueblossombliss @nickristus-dreamer @megawhitleycalderonpaganus @tigresslily @legodetectivemalsblog

[askew-d]

WANGXIAN FICS MASTERLIST

• tonight i can write the saddest lines, by sarahyyy — post-canon amnesiac lan wangji getting to know wei wuxian again. amazing! i love this author, sincerely.

• deconstruct, by flowercity (faorie) — a soulmate au in which what you write in your skin appears in the other person’s. i’ll admit that soulmate aus aren’t my cup of tea, however i quite liked this one!

• resonant frequencies, by chinxe — the infamous fake relationship story. with wangxian, this works so well! just amazing.

• between the lines, by fading_fast — modern setting au with wangxian meeting through a game. love these strange meetings and this one’s damn enjoyable.

• something real, by latios — wangxian wrong number au involving bunny pictures. i need more wrong number aus for them!! gimme!!

• all your life you’ll dream of this, by attila — cinderella au but with wei wuxian as prince charming. a fantastic story, i was so engaged in this it’s a wonder.

• ⭐️🎖️ one good thing, by yuu_chi — wei wuxian’s a ghost haunting his childhood house until lan wangji appears. seriously, everything about this plot charmed me. i’m enchanted.

• of rabbits and men, by shoutowo — wei wuxian turning into a rabbit and making his way into lan wangji’s heart for the second time. anything more wangxian than this?

• ⭐️ rumor has it, by ulan — post-canon cql in which wei wuxian comes back to “haunt” his rumored cultivation partner. the softness in this killed me.

• ⭐️🎖️ a little happiness, by suspicious_popsicle — lan wangji gets cursed and is transformed into his child version. so lovely to see!! i’m surprised i can read this for free.

• critical path analysis, by chinxe — brooklyn 99 au with wangxian in that episode where they make a bet and wei wuxian takes wangji on a terrible date that’s not terrible at all!

• ⭐️ some of you, by tangerine chair — social media au where lan wangji’s an actor and posts a suspicious tweet about his love life. incredible story, really.

• ⭐️ this should definitely happen, by yeolinski — wei wuxian waking up high in anesthesia and hitting on the hot guy who’s there with him. this is so goddamn funny, i swear i can’t.

• linger in the sun, by etymologyplayground — wangxian are cursed to not hear or see one another. i loved this a lot, it’s terrific.

• another way, by anonymous — wei wuxian sneaks outside to buy emperor smile’s again, and once again encounters lan wangji. i’m frustrated this doesn’t have as many kudos as it deserves, tbh.

• life, drama and action, by akai_hana — one more social media au with wangxian as a famous couple. awesome story.

• inebriation and affections, by chewing — wei wuxian gets drunk and shows his clingy attitude. it’s great to see him like that for the first time, thank you author 🙏🏼

• ⭐️ the inquiries of the heart, by ziane — very much alike “another way”, but this one has a sequel. it’s a whole show alright. a hella nice canon-divergence.

• 我在, by tangerinechair — wei wuxian comforting lan wangji in the xuanwu cave. something i deeply needed to read.

• facilitated diffusion, by chinxe — lan wangji can’t stop ordering stuff just to see the cute delivery worker. at this point i’m bookmarking every work by this author, ngl.

• ⭐️ you, asleep and dreaming, by etymologyplayground — post-canon cql that’ll haunt your mind but that you need to check out if you haven’t already.

• a wild heart to tame mine, by theroyalsavage — superheroes au in a soft perspective and amazing plot, liked every bit.

• ⭐️ a song you’ve never heard, by arahir — wei wuxian’s fatally injured and lan wangji… well, you can imagine. it’s heartbreaking and heartwarming all in between.

• ⭐️ to wing your soul with jasmines, by enemyofrome — while reaching gusu, wei wuxian starts sending flowers to lan wangji. cql post-canon. i could die basking on this adorable story.

• dear hanguang-jun, by cavaleira — people start sending letters asking for relationship advice from lan wangji and he gives it to them. whoa, the entertainment!

• ⭐️🎖️ two guys r in love thats literally it, victortor — wei wuxian traveling back to his old self and meeting lan wangji again. it’s a shame we didn’t hear more from this author in this fandom for a long time. where are you?? come back to give us more of this gay lil beasts. i absolutely love this and the title makes it more interesting. iconic.

• concessions to love, by besanii — arranged marriage wangxian. it’s well-noted and well-written. it rocks!

• “congratulations, get rich”, by attila — it’s chinese new year and wei wuxian wants to do things differently. incredibly done.

• atlas, by etymologyplayground — if you want a crossover between hob and mdzs, here it is. and it’s amazing!

• soft-hearted, by sarahyyy — canon-divergence where wei wuxian ends up in the lan sect. it’s so soft, just as the name tells us!

• seldom all they seem, by fahye — here we go with one more arranged marriage au. this one’s rated e, surely a ride! worth every bit.

• and in the spring i shed my skin, by wvlfqveen — shapeshifter lan wangji in a modern with magic au where they’re professors. do i need to say more? all too good, all too good

• love & longing, rabbit edition, by jaws_3 — lan wangji gets turned into a rabbit and looks for wei wuxian for help. do you sense a pattern? yes, maybe i love the idea of lan wangji as a bunny. in fact, i recommend every story by this author and many others but i’ll just be adding by absolute favorites. and this one’s fabulous.

• 在此恭迎夷陵老祖; to yiling laozu, the great and venerable, by yiqie — we had people writing letters to hanguang-jun asking for advice and now it’s people writing letters to the yiling patriarch! also gorgeous.

• 1 unread message, by bittersweetirony — office au where wei wuxian keeps receiving emails from an admirer. short and very sweet!

• ⭐️ the stars in the hazy heaven tremble above you, by cicer — wherein wei wuxian’s ciderella and wangji’s prince charming. i could read this over and over and never get tired. in fact, i did.

• ⭐️🎖️ only the deepest love, by occultings (microcomets) — pride and prejudice fusion. everything’s a bliss, magically and wonderfully so. i fell in love with this masterpiece. in fact, read everything by this author!! highly recommend. especially three days gone, if you go searching rabbits and a life in your shape!

• beneath six layers of silk, by darkredloveknot (enheduane) — lan wangji’s cursed to speak every thought of his out loud. come on, who never wanted to check what this guy’s thinking? perfect!

• ⭐️ let me come home, by cafecliche — seven nights with wangxian being sappy. i could dream about this piece of art. really.

• ⭐️🎖️ i hope that you will come and meet me, by feyburner — another post-canon cql where wangxian slowly get together. i find this particularly devastating and so beautiful.

• the ocean between us, by catbrainedschemes — this is for those who watched the legend of the blue sea, yes, the k-drama! because this is a fusion of it, where wei wuxian is a mermaid.

• call me, beep me, by myung — a whole social media au in another level! they are all actors and i love this idea so much. myung-laoshi big brained, tis glorious story right here made a lot happier.

• and his wanting grows teeth, by yukla — cultivator lan wangji finding wei wuxian in a village, an au in canon setting as the tag says. it's devasting how good this is, really.

• 🎖️ how to fall in love with a catfish: a guide by wei wuxian (disaster rat), by bwyn, yuisaki — wei wuxian finds a catfish trying to be the famous lan wangji. turns out, of course, that it's not a catfish. can we talk about this story more? the sheer hurt/comfort of it, and how it's the perfect rom-com slash drama depiction? i want this as a real show! new york, i love you, by yuisaki also gorgeous!

• listen to the voice inside your head, by pupeez4eva— wei wuxian wakes up to his future-self voice inside his head. it's telling him suspicious things. the amount of giggles i let it slip. in fact, i recommend every work by this author because they always makes me laugh!

• 🎖️ the breaking of your soul (upon my lips), by sunsandships — canon-divergence where wei wuxian discovers that lan wangji's the one who kissed him without his consent. that changes everything. just... magnificent fix-up story, as i said so in my bookmark.

• love on 35mm, by fakeplasticlily — film student lan wangji and wei wuxian as the brother of lan wangji's best friend. my heart was aching during this.

• neatly arranged, by thunderwear — wei wuxian and lan wangji are betrothed, against their own wills. do we have enough wangxian arranged marriage content? no, we do not.

• ⭐️🎖️paint smears on sunny days, by snowshadowao3 — lan wangji's son, lan yuan, has a favorite teacher, and that's wei-laoshi, art professional and also an expert at getting into lan wangji's heart. i will dive DEEP into teacher wei wuxian concept. this one's so wholesome, i could Die.

• 🎖️the absolutely true story of the yiling patriarch: a manifesto in many parts, by aubreyli — the juniors decide to make up wei wuxian's reputation by creating a book of his stories with hanguang-jun. it goes well. one time or another. haha, i love the juniors, they are so creative when making wangxian get together.

• ⭐️🎖️ pigtail pulling, by protos_metazu_isson — lan wangji decides to face wei wuxian's pigtail pulling face to face. that goes better than the expected and worse that what he further imagined. it's surely one of stories i keep on rereading from time to time, especially because it's not big and it's so CUTE!! help.

• ⭐️🎖️ your hand in mine, by cerbykerby — wangxian cursed to hold each other's hand. i could scream while i'm are. come on, this is one of the best stories here, it's short and so sweet, so fitting for them too. perfect, perfect.

• ⭐️ as you like it, by cosmicmilktea — wei wuxian starts to discover what's lan wangji likes. it's what he should know as his husband, after all. IT'S WHAT WE NEED AND DESERVE.

• after the final rose, by azulewaxwing — the bachelor au, because who doesn't want a lan wangji for themselves? turns out, the cameraman attracts his attention more than any contestant could. absolute fire.

• your heartbeat, across the grass, by fakeplasticlily — former classmates with now wei wuxian babysitting and lan wangji as a famous football player. aaah, just imagining lan wangji playing football, as a brazilian, it gives me chills.

• grow, by cafecliche — age degression wei wuxian troubling cloud recesses and the juniors. i love this idea! love a tiny wei wuxian. he deserves good things.

• obedient and bellicose, by thunderwear — an ella the enchanted au where, as per say, lan wangji has to follow every rule. oh, what an incredible fusion. it fits so well, even.

• ⭐️ at least in this lifetime, by etymologyplayground — aaaah i'm sighing over this again. this story's pure sweetness. diabetes. fluff. outstanding. basically, it's just wangxian getting married.

• ⭐️🎖️ i'm the one for your fire, by occultings (microcomets) — a cherry magic au, where wei wuxian can reads mind and discovers lan wangji from the office is actually into him. and maybe he's also into lan wangji. but like, in a no homo kinda way. of course! (denial's a river on africa, dear.)

• ⭐️ look not with the eyes, by spodumene — a case fic post-canon cql where everyone who knows lan wangji starts to devote themselves to him and it doesn't work on wei wuxian. why would that be? i wonder.

• ⭐️🎖️ sweet chaos, by eachandeverydimension — it took me a long time to finish this because everything was so good i wanted to feel it forever. wangxian arranged marriage where they're fourteen and lan wangji goes spend the time with him at yunmeng.

• ⭐️🎖️ your words upon my lips, by uchiuchi — during a nighthun, wangxian get cursed, what one says comes on the other's lips. this killed me, it's so freaking funny and overall over the top.

• ⭐️🎖️ linger by the door (i've always been yours), by piecrust — epistolary wangxian! post-canon cql! introspection! slow burn! everything i could ever want in just one fic. and the letters are unbearably beautiful.

• my heart skips a beat (so my gut can feel the punch), by piecrust — wangxian taking the long way back home. i always wonder how these pretty stories come into an author's mind.

• we sit in the sunset glow, by moonsteps — tangled au where wei wuxian's flynn rider and wangji's rapunzel. thank you, dear author, indeed wangxian came straight out of a fairy tale movie and we deserve more fics like this!

•⭐️not in so many words, by jaws_3 — getting hananaki through a curse after he flirts with the wrong florist, wei wuxian starts dealing with the consequences of his actions. a masterpiece. and so, so lovely, gimme more. this author also has many darling works.

• ⭐️tickling sleeping dragons, by fallingfeathers — a hogwarts au with wei wuxian as a troublemaker gryffindor and lan wangji as a rigorous ravenclaw! perfect, isn't it? the development's awesome as well.

• blooming into the color of love, series by leffy — actors wei wuxian and lan wangji, who are judged to be rivals, have to work together for a tv show. and they have sex scenes at that. so enjoyable!

• love potion no. 9, by ria_green — one more hogwarts au where amortentia's involved, so you can imagine what happens. short and soft.

• the rivers start to sing, by fruitys — another tangled au but this time with wei wuxian as rapunzel and lan wangji as flynn rider. it's a marvel that we have two tangled aus in here! phenomenal. mountains, we met by this author (every work of theirs, actually) are also worth every bit!

•⭐️blue-ribbon bunny, by cicer — shapeshifter lan wangji is forced into a shift after getting tired at work and wei wuxian finds him. bunji won my heart, i want to pet him! wei wuxian, you lucky fool.

•⭐️no more looking, i've found home, by annadream — more epistolary wangxian! more post-canon cql! getting together! once again, with terrific letters. i'm astonished with these author's mind.

•⭐️🎖️teen project to change the world, by animeloverhomura — mdzs characters watching mdzs donghua!!! please, this is my utmost FAVORITE! ever! i'm also translating this into portuguese, for those who wanna check in the start note (i'm slowly updating it, im sorry). but aaah, how sensational this work is!!

• an impromptu visit to the city, by bosbie — lan wangji time travels into a modern time and wei wuxian finds him there! oh, this is precious, they are the best.

• heartkeeper, by postingpebbles — bunny lan wangji again, but this ain't modern times, and it's also fascinating. the arts in these made me so warm inside, too.

• ⭐️🎖️the one-body problem, by metisket — during a ritual, lan jingyi's possessed and wei wuxian's on his body with him. waahhh, i couldn't help but chuckle during every part of this, it's well-written and freaking nice to see them bonding. jingyi and wei wuxian being buddies owns my life.

• ⭐️🎖️no certainty of doors between us, by betts — this is the story that HAUNTS me. i read this every once in a while because it's goddamn FANTASTIC. just roommates wangxian with wangji complaining about wei wuxian but being head over heels in love with the man. chaotic, amusing and flawless!!!

• ⭐️🎖️covered in bees, by scarlettstorm— apiary au with wei wuxian freaking out over bees at his doorstep, but then lan wangji comes to aid. and of course, chemistry sparks. and there are bees everywhere. and my heart's melted.

•🎖️lavender blue, by ana_cp — wei wuxian's a florist for a wedding and lan wangji's a cook, they meet and don't stop meeting afterwards. everything about this work is excellent!

•⭐️ wrong turn, right place, by diamondbruise — more time-travel au! this time, it's wei wuxian who goes to cloud recesses coming from his modern time. one of my favorite quotes from all the fics i've read it's in here. such an exquisite work.

• hello, it. have you tried turning it off and on again?, by overmountainandmeadow — here we have modern setting, office wangxian, it superior lan wangji, juniors as interns and other great plots. stunning work!

• diamonds are wei wuxian's worst enemy, by thefaceofno — lan wangji says he wants to marry, and wei wuxian thinks it's with another person. of course it isn't. so he helps plan his own wedding. coming from our best fool, that's expected, really. splendid!

• secretary lan, series by silverclaw — exactly what it says, lan wangji as his husband's secretary and everybody thinks wei wuxian's cheating on their spouse with... well, his spouse. it's absurdly good.

• our hands clasped so tight, by chapter_61 — wangxian get stuck in a library and conversations ensue. i like the idea of fics with a lot of dialogue, and this one didn't fail to surprise and light me up! lovely!

• ⭐️connected: unknown number, by phoenixking25 — wrong number aus always have my heart, and wow, how good this one is. truly excellent, with the perfect lenght. the ones i read are always so short, but this is longer! a win for the wrong number lovers.

• cut through the clouds, break the ceiling, by tardigradeschool — modern setting with our adorable boys including a drunk confession. i'm not lying when i say this is so delightful, i want to print it out and keep it.

• who could stay? you could stay, by martyrsdaughter — neighbours au, where wei wuxian's a bit intruding. maybe too much. but lan wangji likes him anywhere. what is there not to like? haha, a whole awesome read.

• ⭐️ be gay, do crime, by merelydovely — lan wangji thinks wei wuxian, the guy who invaded his home one afternoon and petted his bunnies, is a bad guy. he's not. hilarious and brilliant!

• ⭐️don't threaten me with a good time, by livinginaworldofnoise — ridiculously funny! basically, a great british bake off au with wei wuxian being a lil demon. i want this to be printed and delivered during my funeral, thank you very much.

• ⭐️as the clouds part and clear, we finally meet again, by 12262325 — lan wangji, as a kid, encounters wei wuxian, who's older than him. they keep on encountering each other, and lan wangji keeps on falling in love with his senior. aah, i'm in love with this work! i can't stop rereading!

• as if you were a mythical thing, by daltoneering — a vague steampunk au as the author suggest, and it absolutely rocks! i wish this had even more hits, as it deserves.

you can check my wangxian bookmarks on ao3 for more recs! i’d just like to note again that this is, of course, based on my own opinion. regardless if these stories are famous or not, i wanted to make this list for my enjoyment and for those who want more wangxian content, either they’re old here or if they’re just entering the fandom :)

as always, i’m accepting other recs if you have those. check my pinned tweet for more of my stuff and thank yoou!

[spacedace]

Oh hey here’s the lil prolog thing I wrote for my DP x DC Leverage AU. I’m gonna actually write more of one day I swear but for now have this opening bit and feel free to use it as a prompt if you want :D

-

The station went utterly quiet as they brought her in.

Room after room going as silent as the grave when the young woman in handcuffs stepped through the door. Chatter stopped. Bodies stilled. Heads turned. Eyes widened. It almost felt like everyone was too afraid to even breath as she walked by. Cops and crooks alike watching with fear and awe in equal measures as Jim Gordon led her past them to the interrogation room.

She didn’t give the gaping crowd any mind. Head tilted up at an angle, shoulders back, steps sure. The solid heals of her boots clicked upon the scuffed linoleum, echoing loud in the stifling quiet. Like a royal herald announcing her presence. She held herself like a queen, which was fitting Jim supposed. Until tonight, the only name anyone had to call her by was Queen.

The blood, unnervingly, only made her seem more regal.

Batman was already in the interrogation room when they arrived. Jim didn’t even have it in him to sigh at the broody bat looming in the corner. He knew he’d be there. There was no way he would miss the interrogation of someone they’d been chasing for so long. Especially not now considering…well.

Considering.

Jim largely ignored the vigilante in the corner as he moved through the familiar process of getting the young woman handcuffed in place to the table, starting the recording and rattling off the relevant details: date, time, the - many - charges the young woman had been arrested for. If he faltered over the victim’s name of the young woman’s most recent crime no one commented on it. In the corner, Batman watched and lurked. Nearly lost in the shadowy corner of the room while still being impossible to ignore.

They’d done this before. Good cop, bad vigilante. It was usually effective in getting the truth out of stubborn criminals.

Jim rather doubted it would work in this case.

“Please state your name for the record.” He said, only to be met with the same cool silence Queen had given everyone since her arrest. She shifted in her seat, not a nervous fidget but an easy, languid movement. Even the uncomfortable metal chair seemed like a throne when she was involved. Jim bit back a sigh. “We have your information. I’m asking as a courtesy.”

Queen tilted her head faintly, looking at him with something almost like amusement, one brow twitching slightly upward. “You’ll have to forgive my disbelief, Commissioner Gordon.” She said, polite as ever. “But I’m rather sure that you won’t find me in any system you run my fingerprints or face through.”

She was right about that. They’d tried a hundred times over the past few years she and her team had been operating in Gotham. Her face never appeared in any pictures or recordings - not even in her mugshot during processing, all that was visible was her red hair and a mess of corrupted visual data where her face should be. The most her fingerprints had ever led to where the other crimes they already knew she’d taken part in. Batman had done everything to try and circumvent whatever meta ability kept her from being recorded on film, had done even more to try and find her and her people in every system he and the Justice League had access to. Nothing. Jim had grumbled a few times about how Queen and her crew might as well be ghosts for all the proof that they existed officially.

Turned out, ghosts was exactly right.

“The Ghost Investigation Ward reached out to us two hours ago.” He said, leaning back in his own seat, watching her carefully. “I’ll repeat, Ms. Fenton, my asking is a courtesy.”

For the first time in the years he’d known her, Queen - real name Jasmine “Jazz” Fenton - looked scared. Beyond scared, even. Completely, and utterly terrified.

Her body went rigid, eyes growing wide, breath picking up as she sat up sharply. Any semblance of that calm, collected presence she always held even when she was at her most cornered and vulnerable vanished in an instant. He’d seen her breath in a cloud of Scarecrow’s Fear Toxin and laugh. Watched as Bane wrapped large hands around her throat and tilt her chin up to stare down at her attacker imperiously. A mobster pressed the barrel of a gun to her head and she’d smiled, coy and confidant and untouchable. Queen always, always was calm. Aggravatingly so, even. Utterly unshakable as she waltzed into every wild and insane situation carrying the undeniable air of one who was complete control of everything happening.

She hadn’t even looked scared when the Joker had held her hostage.

And now? Now all it had taken was those three words. Ghost Investigation Ward. A nonsense name for a government agency with a ridiculous purpose. And yet there the unshakable Queen sat, looking terrified out of her mind at the mere mention of them.

Not for the first time since he received that call, Jim Gordon felt uneasy.

[joedirtymadre]

Hi!!! I really like your writing!! but I'd like to give you an unwanted suggestion 👉👈 (you can take ot or leave it, I understand of course) Reading the fics gets really tiring when the paragraphs are so long, maybe you should break them down a little so it's easier to understand! Also I've seen it's more common to write in third person, reading in first person feels a little weird. Maybe you like things that way and it's totally okay, but I think trying these might help a little so more people read your stuff. I send u a big hug! Please keep writing! 💖

Jasmine Tea

YUJI X READER! FLUFF! (PLEASE SEND REQUESTS 😭) Also my bad for writing first person. I’ll try third person and making my paragraphs shorter, old habits make it tuff 🥲

“Come on (Y/N), just confess to him!” Nobara sighed as she pushed me towards Yuji’s door. “B-But I was set up. You and Panda played me during truth or date…” you said as you tried to fight back, but it was no use. “What are you talking about? It was a… fair game,” Nobara hesitated. “You just hesitated before saying fair,” you pointed out. “Well we’re already here, so… good luck!” She said as she knocked on the door and ran away. “Wait! Take me with y-“

“(Y/N)?” You heard as the door opened. “O-Oh… hey Yuji. H-How are you?” You stuttered. “Good and you? And was Nobara just here, I swear I just heard her,” he said as he looked down the hallway. “No, just me! Just wanted to say hi!” You said, and tried to walk away, but saw Nobara and Panda peek down the hallway, with a mischievous expression. Oh, right… the punishment game.

“Uh Yuji… are you free?” You asked. “Free?” He asked. “Y-Yeah… there’s a new ramen shop I wanted to try,” You said nervously. “Ramen, that does sound pretty good right now! Let me grab my coat,” he said before rushing in and quickly running back out with a jacket on. You looked over towards Nobara and Panda, both of them gave me a thumbs up before going back into hiding. Both of you then headed off campus and towards town.

While in the metro, you noticed it was pretty packed so you both had to stand. “(Y/N) have you checked out the menu? It looks so good,” he grinned. You nodded, “Yeah, I heard they have a super spicy broth, and I’m really excited about it,” you replied. “That does sound good, maybe I’ll get a side of gyoza too. It's been a while,” he pointed out. “Ooh, gyoza sounds great. You know what else I haven’t had in a whi-“ You were cut off, due to the metro stopping all of a sudden.

You braced yourself for impact, but instead landed on a firm yet soft surface… “Are you ok?” Yuji asked. You widened my eyes, and looked up to see that he had caught me. “I’m f-fine,” you blushed. “Good,” he smiled, but instead of loosening his grip, he still kept his arm wrapped around your lower back. “It’d be better if you hold onto me. I’ll make sure you don’t fall,” he said. You slowly nodded and held onto him as the metro continued on track to our destination.

The metro soon arrived at your destination and you and Yuji quickly got off and headed towards the new ramen place. After quickly being seated down at a table, as you sat across from each other and began looking through the menu.

“I might get a hot tea, I’d hate to mix something cold with something super hot and then get sick later,” you explained. “Alright, sounds good. How about some jasmine tea?” He asked. “Sure,” you nodded. After ordering and a few more minutes of chatting the waiter returned with the pot of tea. “Here you go-OH!” The waiter yelled as he slipped. He accidentally dropped the kettle on the table, causing it to shatter at impact. You covered my face, but felt the hot liquid hit my arms. “Ow!” You yelled. “(Y/N)!” Yuji said worriedly and rushed over. “Are you hurt? Y-You got burned!” He said, and grabbed your hand and dragged you to the restroom.

He ran into the women’s bathroom and rushed me over to the sink. He quickly splashed cold water on my arms. “Y-Yuji…” you said softly, as you watched him continue to splash cold water on your burn. “I’m sorry, I should’ve caught it. Now you got burnt,” he said softly. You stayed quiet, and stood there as he continued to mend you. The manager and the waiter apologized profusely, and even gave you a 50% coupon for a whole year. Yuji still wasn’t too happy, but honestly you just wanted to go home. Plus, the manager gave you a big container of gyoza to take home.

The ride back home was silent, even on the metro. “Yuji… are you ok?” You asked as you just arrived at the campus stairs. “I’m fine, I just…” he trailed off. “Sorry about tonight. It’s my fault we couldn’t try the super spicy broth after all,” you joked, hoping it would lighten the mood. “Maybe next time, but… I didn’t like seeing you get hurt. I don’t know why, cause we’ve been on missions before. But this time was different, I got so mad I wanted to punch that guy,” he sighed as he scratched his head. “Well… I sometimes get like that too,” you blushed. “You do?” He asked, looking to face me. You nodded, “When we’re on assignments or when you come back from one and you’re all beaten up, or injured my whole heart feels like it was smashed.” You answered. “That’s how mine felt!” He said. “Then maybe…” you blushed. “Maybe what?” He asked. “C-Can I check something?” You asked nervously. “Sure,” he said. “C-Can you close your eyes real quick?” You asked, hoping he won’t notice how nervous you’re acting. “Uhh… ok,” he shrugged and shut his eyes.

You slowly walked up to him and stared at him for a second. Before you slowly lifted yourself with your tippy toes, and held onto his shoulders for balance. “(Y-“ you cut him off, with a gentle and soft kiss. You immediately felt him tense up, and quickly pulled away. “I’m sorry! I thought- I just-“ but was interrupted as you were suddenly pulled into another, more passionate kiss.

This time you tensed up, but slowly you allowed your body to relax into the kiss. After a few more seconds you finally pulled away, trying to catch your breath. You stared at Yuji’s light pink tinted cheeks. “S-So you like me too?” You asked, feeling excited. “I’ve always liked you (Y/N)… but I guess I didn’t realize that I liked you more than a friend,” he laughed, nervously. “I’ve always liked you too, and I’m glad we hung out today,” you smiled. “Yeah, me too. So, is that reason why you invited me out today? You were planning to confess?” He asked, as he wrapped his arm around you. “Something like that,” you answered.

[chaosduckies]

Broken Strings

Another little one-shot of Nathan and Ryker. It’s short, pretty fast paced, but I still kind of like how it came out. A lot of comfort cause I was in the mood, and this was just a random scene I had thought of. So I hope you guys like it! :D

Word Count: 2.4k

CW: Death, depression, that’s pretty much it!

———Ryker———

Today was a special day. A traumatizing one, yes, but it was special. Not just because it was just heart-breaking, but because it marked the day when my world had come crashing down on top of me. The day when everything wasn’t going to be alright just like my parents had always said. Today was the day they had died. 

Just after I had started my sophomore year in school. I remembered it like any other day. My parents were going on their anniversary date, I stayed at home to watch everyone for a couple hours. I wasn’t as good at it as I am now, but I still managed for a couple hours. They had called to tell me they were coming home late. But they never did come home that night. Instead, I rushed everyone to the hospital, in hopes that it was just a nightmare. That the call I had received was fake. But it wasn’t 

It was a car crash. Just minutes after they had said they would be coming home. A driver had crashed right into them, drunk and placed into custody for driving while intoxicated. If only they hadn’t gone out. If only they could have spent their anniversary at home for just one more year. 

Of course fate has another plan. I remember how broken and miserable I was. How I didn’t get any sleep for days on end. How I didn’t eat or drink anything for what seemed like weeks. 

How I completely forgot all about my siblings for months. 

I regret not being there for them when they needed me most. It still hurts to this day to remember what happened. What must have gone through their heads as they were dying. I miss them so much, and it stills hurts me more than any of my siblings. Which was why every year I spent the day alone. Jasmine thought it was best for me to stay by myself on this day specifically. Mostly because I can get a little angry and depressed at everyone. 

——————

The entire week I’ve been in and out of it. On top of the college work that’s been piling up on top of me, and keeping up with the upcoming school months for everyone, it’s been a rough couple of days. It seemed while everyone was having a good time laughing and messing around with one another as usual, I was just… empty. I felt dead. Just as I have for the past two years. So today, everyone had fixed themselves up fro school, sounding worried about me like they always were, and left just as usual. 

I groaned, heading to the cold living room instead of lounging in bed all day. Jasmine probably told Nathan to head out for the day. He’s noticed that I’ve been more sluggish and fatigued lately. I’m sure someone told him why. They probably jut want to make sure I won’t do anything stupid, which I probably do anyways. On days like this I just lay down somewhere, drown in my sorrows, and hope that maybe the rest of the time they’re not with me will be okay. I just have to remember who I have to look out for. 

As I made my way to the living room, there was a tiny yelp from almost right by where I was stepping. I immediately looked down, shocked by what I was seeing. Nathan stayed? Did Jasmine or Dylan not tell him? More importantly, why was he trying to push a bottle of pills? I looked back, seeing that he was pushing them towards my room. So did someone tell him? Did he choose to stay behind? I should definitely apologize. 

I slid down the wall, watching him come a little closer to me. Why was he staying here? He should go. I might accidentally hurt him like I already almost did. Then I would never forgive myself. Who knew dating a human could be so hard? I don’t know when I’m holding him to tightly for a hug, or how he wants to be held, or most of the time I can never convince him to just take a break and not focus on trying to help me out. But I guess the pros outweigh the cons. By a landslide. 

“S-sorry.” I mumbled, sighing and biting the inside of my cheek. 

“It’s fine,” He smiled, “C-could you take one of these though? P-Please?” He tried pushing the bottle of pills closer to me, barely budging it. Then again, the bottle was full and like twice his own height. 

I carefully grabbed the top so I wouldn’t scare him as much, and so he wouldn’t fall over when I picked it up. I undid the lid, grabbing one of the pills and eyeing it. What will these do for me? I don’t feel sick… just tired. I wasn’t up for doing anything. I just wanted to lie down on the cold floor and rest. Not that Nathan’s here, maybe I can’t even do that? Do I have to keep my attention on him? I don’t think I can do that. At least not for today. I’m too depressed today. 

Listening to Nathan, I took a pill, closing the bottle and setting it off to the side. I trust that he didn’t give me anything that would affect me too much. After all, we’ve been together for about four months now. How could I not trust someone as great as Nathan? 

“Everything okay?” He asked, climbing onto my let-down hand and hugging my thumb the way he always does when I’m feeling upset. It’s like he knows exactly what I’m thinking at all times. I really wish I was his size or even vice versa. I can’t really feel when he tries to show affection. It’s the sad truth, but of course I always try. He’s just so small, of course I find it adorable, but right now I don’t want to accidentally do something stupid with him. 

“N-Not really. U-Um, I’m sorry for this, but would you mind not… being around me for a while? I-I’m sorry.” I apologized, slowly sliding him off of my hand. He looked a little sad at first but just nodded, “A-alright. W-will you call me if you need anything?” He asked before taking a couple steps back. My heart dropped for hurting his feelings, but I think it would be worse if I hadn’t told him. 

I nodded my head, forcing myself to stand up, grab a blanket, and lie down on the cold floor like I always did. Maybe when I wake up I’ll feel better. 

At least that’s what I tell myself every year.

———Nathan———

He had been sleeping for the past couple of hours. He must’ve been a haunted from barely getting any sleep last night, on top of the pill I made him take. It was a little past midday, and I had nothing better to do�� other than to take care of Ryker. That’s what I was supposed to do anyways. It’s my job. Since I’m pretty much useless in any other situation. But right now he’s hurting. And I’m going to make sure that I help him out the same way he did when my mom had passed away. 

Jasmine had told me this morning that it would be better if I stayed out for the day. That Ryker can be a little careless of his actions when he’s like this. I sort of believe it, but I doubt he’d actually hurt anyone. So now, it was my turn to be there for him. 

I was currently watching something on my phone, sitting down on the floor next to the pillow Ryker was laying his head on. I didn’t want him to think that I had left him. That would be the worst thing to do. The only thing that bothered me was the fact that I couldn’t hold him like he could to me. I couldn’t comfort him the same way, nor could I even do half the amount of the things he does for me. There was no harm in trying though. 

Ryker stirred in his sleep before finally waking up, rubbing his eyes and burying his head into his pillow, groaning. I was guessing he didn’t feel any better. Neither did I no matter how many times I tried to sleep it off. To think that he’s been going through this for the past two years. I wish I could’ve been there for him then too. 

He picked up his head, eyes wandering around for a bit before landing on me. I smiled nervously, shoving my phone into my pocket and standing up. 

“Do you want me to go still?” I had asked, playing with my hands. I had thought he was going to say no before he pinched me between his thumb and pointer, bringing me closer to him. I shocked when I saw that his eyes were being flooded with tears, him trying to wipe them away before any of them fell. Ryker shook his head, “N-no.” 

So I stayed, being placed on top of his pillow while he struggled to keep his tears in. I smiled softly, “It’s okay to cry in front of me, Ry. I’ve cried in front of you before, right?” I laughed to brighten up to meet, happy to see that he slightly chuckled, getting rid of some of the thoughts and emotions he must be feeling. Good to know I was helping out in some way. 

Ryker had let a few tears drop, burying his face into his hands, “Nate, I don’t know what to do…” I jumped, not really knowing what I was supposed to do now either. 

“You don’t know what to do?” I questioned again, “What do you mean?” 

He cupped his hand behind me, looking at me with broken eyes, “I-I mean like, It’s hard of taking care of everyone. I miss my parents, Nate.” He scooted me closer, almost to the curve of his nose. If I wasn’t so used to being so close to Ryker I probably would have been freaking out right now. But there was no need to be afraid. At least not when I knew Ryker would never purposely hurt me. 

I hugged him, trying to make sure he could feel it as much as possible since I know he barely can. He probably needs this right now, and I just wish I could do better for him. He doesn’t deserve to be hurting this much. His parents are dead, and obviously that’s affecting him so much. 

Ryker was surprised at first, then he just tightly pressed me up closer, obviously wanting the same amount of comfort he’s given me before. I admit, I could barely breathe, but I would make that sacrifice for him if it makes him feel better. 

“My parents would have loved you.” He whispered, going cross-eyed just to take a look at me. My heart skipped a beat. His parents would have liked me? Was he serious? Wouldn’t they think that I wasn’t enough for him? I mean I think that, but I’m still trying my hardest. 

“Are you sure?” I laughed softly, hoping this wasn’t a touchy subject for him. Instead, he smiled right back at me, “Yup. They would love the way you try to help me, they way you take care of my siblings when I can’t… I wish they could be here to see you.” Hi slips quivered before a few more tears fell down. I rolled my sleeve up as far down my arm as I could and tried wiping them away, ending up getting all wet. A small sacrifice I would make anytime. 

Ryker sucked in a sharp breath, “You would’ve loved my mom. She liked baking like you do and reading when she thought no one was looking,” He laughed, “My dad absolutely loved building these small little things, part of the reason why they were so happy when they had Angel.” His voice sounded like he was ready to take another nap, but I doubt it. 

“And now they’re gone.” He released the breath he had been holding, shutting his eyes tightly. He really missed them. A lot. Like I had missed mine. 

“Hey, it’s okay. Alright? I’m right here.” His eyes focused on me. He pulled his face away, wiping away the tears that trekked down his face, slightly laughing at me but with an apologetic look on his face. 

“Sorry! I got you all wet.” We sat laughing for a while. Maybe he didn’t think so, but I’m sure he’s feeling a lot better. Maybe instead of leaving him alone for the day what he really needed was just for someone to be with him. It made me extremely sad to think that he had been all alone last year, but now he has me. I’m glad that I didn’t leave. Otherwise what would’ve happened? 

By the end of it, it had seemed like Ryker was feeling all better. He was smiling, but I could tell something else was bothering him. I just didn’t know what. 

“Hey Nate? Um, thanks for not leaving.” He mumbled, picking his head up slightly. I was shocked to say the least, but otherwise smiled. 

“Aw Ry, It’s my job. How could I leave you when you didn’t leave me?” His face flushed a deep red. I couldn’t help but laugh, only to be shut up by Ryker pressing his lips onto me. He picked his head up a little, smirking, “Laughing now huh?” Then pressed against my body even more. I probably would have passed out if he hadn’t realized he was being a little too overwhelming for me. I couldn’t breathe, at all, and honestly this was too much affection for me to handle. Mark that as our third official kiss. 

As soon as he had quickly pulled away, panicking because he had thought he was being too careless. Honestly, maybe a little, but I wasn’t going to complain. If it’s what he wanted. I was feeling a little dizzy from the lack of oxygen though. Not to mention that my head was overheating. Such a great combination. You know? 

But I think everything would be okay. Even if he was still a little sluggish from what happened all those years ago. It’s some progress to help him out. I can tell that this was what’s been bothering him ever since I’ve met him. Why he’s always on edge. Why he sometimes watches what he says. Why he’s always so tired and exhausted from taking care of everyone. I just have to help him as much as I possibly can. 

——————

Idk I had thought of this a while back. Idk if I like it that much or not, but I wrote it soooo why the heck not :D

I hope you guys liked it, and thank you for reading!

[edream93]

Thoughts on The Rise of Red

Okay, these are just my thoughts that I wrote down in my note app as I watched the movie.

SPOILERS if you haven't watched "Descendants: The Rise of Red" yet:

Uma crying talking about Carlos is definitely China crying for real. It’s definitely a plot inconsistency because as far as we know Uma and Carlos didn’t have any type of relationship outside of Mal but for China and the audience, I thought it was a touching nod to Cam.

Maybe it’s just me but I feel like over the past three movies we had gotten better with the wig situations and this movie felt like a bit of a step back for some of these wigs

The special effects in Red’s first song were pretty neat for a DCOM-adjacent movie 

Maddox is kinda cute…This man is 44!?!?! 😍

Paolo Montalbano 😍 My first crush! Honestly he and Brandy and China are the only reason why I’m watching this.

Still not a total fan of Cinderella’s dress. It’s giving royal moo-moo 

Brandy and Paolo are still cute together. Like not even in a romantic way but they are definitely co-actors that have great chemistry on screen together. Like it feels like they slipped back into their characters effortless.

I’m sorry Brandy but those shoes are ugly

OMG! Chad is their son!!! They really was like, the Prince Charming had a White dad and a Black mom so of course he and Cindy can have a White son 🤣

Is it me or are there already more songs in this movie than the previous? 

Maybe it’s because it’s the only second song but I definitely expected that they would have given Rita and Brandy more to work with

I know Dylan and Thomas probably have grown out of working with Disney but I at least wish they gave a throw away line about where Harry and Gil are. Like we know at least where Mal and the others are and that Carlos apparently died. Idk, the lack of Harry’s line in Uma’s song made me miss them.

You know, for all of the fuss they made about the magic wand, the fact that the Queen of Hearts can easily cut it in half is funny to me

Is this Aladdin and Jasmin they keep cutting back to? I didn’t keep up with the movie production before it came out so maybe them being in this movie shouldn’t be surprising 

“Now make me proud, for once,” is such a hard comment to hear from a parent.

Not Chloe’s wig changing randomly 🤣

The actress playing young Fairy G definitely looks like a younger actress of the original one. Good casting.

I feel like a lot of these songs are just sing talking. Like not really singing but just them talking and like I know they did that sometimes in the previous movies but it just feels…odd

….did Chloe’s wig change…again…???

It did….

Did both of their wigs change???

Honestly, I’m underwhelmed by the costumes. I know the same designer wasn’t on this movie but eh

Ella is like… “Mom? Who you calling mom?!??!” 🤣

I forgot that since this was before Auradon they probably would take classes about magic 

Bridget’s and Red’s outfits are so far my faves

Jaladdin 🤣

“If you wanna roll together we can be a vibe” 🤣

…..Chloe’s hair changed again….Is this just her face hair or something because it’s not the hair she had in the previous scene

Morganna’s son!?!? Didn’t expect that. Again, I have been so far removed from keeping up-to-date about the production of this movie

Oh I forgot Maleficent and Hades were together at some point. Guess I just thought that was an Isle boredom fling thing

I love how this movie totally negates anything that has happened in the original movies, at least in terms of how they happened. I honestly like to think of the OG movies as royal propaganda 🤣

Okay so I think there’s three wigs that Chloe has had, a regular, a slightly more volumized one, and then what my friend calls the “chia pet” one 😅

Chloe…NO! 😫

Honestly, this portrayal of Cinderella is kinda my fave. She’s been through a lot

Okay, should have known the VK songs would be a bop

Maybe it’s just me but every time I see Hades in this, I think he looks like Chris Colfer

I feel like this movie has so many special effects which isn’t bad, it’s just interesting because I feel like big special effects were saved until the last half/battle

WIG CHANGE AGAIN!

Paolo acting his butt off to the pay the bills

Oooo that was too far Red…

Wig change

Yeah, this movie definitely has a lot more songs…😬

Also…why is her wig longer when they’re gardening? 

Are there…are there FOUR wigs?!?!?!?!

Me snorting at the captions reading -hero music playing-

Morganna’s son is missing a few brain cells. Love him.

There’s 7 minutes left….what are they gonna do in 7 minutes!

Not the Queen of Heart’s hair blowing in the wind! 😊

I know it’s not that serious in this movie, but I wonder what’s the reasoning for Red never going to Auradon now that things have changed

I’m glad the Queen of Hearts is nice and all but there should definitely be a fanfic about how Red is trying to distinguish her old reality with her new. And no, it won’t be from me. I wipe my hands clean of this series. I mean it! I’m so serious! I totally don’t have any plot bunnies in my head now! Nope! None. At. All!

Wait! Uma! Are you implying there’s going to be some - GASPS- ramifications to the time traveling!?!?!?

Final thoughts:

Maybe it’s because I’m OFFICIALLY not part of the target demographic anymore but I kind of felt underwhelmed. Like the last three movies had things I wasn’t a fan of but there were at least songs, aspects, characters, that I was a fan of. Honestly, the only person I LOVED in this one was Maddox. If you liked this movie, that’s totally fine and I hope my thoughts don’t stop you from enjoying it. I hope you have all the head cannons and fanfic ideas and amazing energizing conversations with others in the fan. If they come up with more stuff with this series (which they probably will) I might tune in but I think this, plus that Pt.2 outline of WLTF that I still owe folks will probably be my last active contribution to this particular fandom. 

Anyway, my faves of Descendants: The Rise of Red:

Uma, even if she was just serving the purpose of narrator/handing the torch from one generation to the next

The nod to Cameron

Brandy and Paolo. I LOVE them on screen together.

I actually really liked Ella and hope to see the actress, Morgan Dudley in more things

Maddox was cute but I honestly always seem to have a thing for movie/TV mad hatters (points to OUAT and the SyFy mini series Alice) 

Things I’m “eh” about:

The WIGS!!!! And the costumes but the WIGS!!! Like, if this series continues they need to fix stat!

The songs were kinda forgettable. Uliana’s song at her hideout was kinda a bop and Red’s intro song is good too but everything else was kinda “bleh”

I also feel like we didn’t really get to know Red that well or maybe I was just too distracted by Chloe’s wig.

The plot and pacing. I mean, the OG Descendants movies weren’t perfect but I feel like they typically hit certain plot beats where, as much as you can with these type of movies, it feels like the stakes are high. I guess Merlin’s office being the scene of the last “battle” and then going back to their time just felt a little anti-climatic for me.

But anywho, those are my thoughts. If you don’t agree, that’s fine, just be polite, okay? 

[ash-and-books]

Rating: 1/5

Book Blurb:

A captivating and sizzling new queer romance by New York Times bestselling author Jasmine Guillory.

Avery Jensen is almost thirty, fresh off a breakup, and she’s tired of always being so uptight and well-behaved. She wants to get a hobby, date around (especially women), flirt with everyone she sees, wear something not from the business casual section of her closet—all the fun stuff normal people do in their twenties. One problem: Avery doesn't know where to start. She doesn't have a lot of dating experience, with men or women, and despite being self-assured at work, she doesn't have a lot of confidence when it comes to romance.

Enter Taylor Cameron, Napa Valley's biggest flirt and champion heartbreaker. Taylor just broke up with her most recent girlfriend, and her best friend bet her that she can't make it until Labor Day without sleeping with someone. (Two whole months? Without sex? Taylor?!?!) So, she offers to give Avery flirting lessons. It should keep her busy and stop her from texting people she shouldn't. And it might take her mind off how inadequate she feels compared to her friends, who all seem much more settled and adult than Taylor.

At first, Avery is stiff and nervous, but Taylor is patient and encouraging, and soon, Avery looks forward to their weekly lessons. With Taylor’s help, Avery finally has the life she always wanted. The only issue is: now she wants Taylor. Their attraction becomes impossible to ignore, despite them both insisting to themselves and everyone else that it isn't serious. When Taylor is forced to confront her feelings for Avery, she doesn't know what to do—and most importantly, if she's already ruined the best thing she's ever had.

Review:

A sapphic romance between a woman who is fresh out of a breakup and the cute bartender who is a huge flirt and offers to give her flirting lessons... but for some reason the only person she wants to be with is the very person coaching her. The premise of this book seemed really cute however the story felt really repetitive and boring, I wish I could like it more but it just wasn't for me. I adore sapphic romances and I do think that other readers who love a slow burn story with a simple story will enjoy it. I just didn't feel any chemistry or romance between the two characters and found myself checking out while reading it. While this one missed the mark for me I do think it can be a good read for other readers.

Release Date: April 8, 2025

Publication/Blog: Ash and Books (ash-and-books.tumblr.com)

*Thanks Netgalley and Berkley Publishing Group | Berkley for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*

[stardust948]

I want to post something, but my brain won't let me do anything new, so here's the unfinshed draft of how Hakoda and Kya got together in Frenemies AU

///

Ursa: Did you talk to Kya?

Ozai, on his laptop: Yeah we went to the Jasmine Dragon the other day.

Ursa: Did you two actually talk or challenge random people at Karaoke again?

Ozai:

Ozai: Maybe.

Ursa: *sighs* Okay, I'll go talk to her. You talk to Hakoda.

Ozai: Ugh, no.

Ursa:

Ozai, rolling his eyes: Fine. But I'm going to say I told you so when it blows up in your face.

---

Ursa: Heyyy Kya!

Kya: What’s the big news?

Ursa: How did you know I had news?

Kya: Because every time you're like, "Heyyy."

Ursa: *smiles and rolls her eyes* So I heard the Ember Island Tropical dance is this weekend.

Kya: Yeah?

Ursa: And that your outing with Hakoda the other day went well.

Kya: Um kind of. I mean it did at first but... wait how do you know about that? Did Hakoda tell you?

Ursa, lying: Yes! He said he missed spending time with you like that.

Kya: Really? I thought he was mad at me for asking why we couldn't try again.

Ursa: No. He just got choked up. You know Hakoda; killer on stage but hopeless in person.

Kya: I can't believe it. He actually... *shakes head* No I can't risk it.

Ursa: There's nothing to risk. He still likes you Kya. Nothing will change that.

Kya: I need time to think. Please don't tell anyone or pull one of your schemes.

Ursa: I promise.

___

Ozai, appearing behind Hakoda: Hey-

Hakoda, jumps: Oh spirits! I'm going to tie a bell on you!

Ozai: Well if you stopped moping around you would have heard me.

Hakoda, muttering: I wasn't moping.

Ozai: Right. Look Ursa and I are sick of watching you and Kya dance around each other so man up and ask her back already.

Hakoda: W-Wha...

Ozai: I'm not going back and forth with you. This whole nonsense is making you miserable. And you're no fun when you're miserable from something not my fault. Now put your annoying persistence and stupid charm to use just do it already. *leaves*

Hakoda:

Hakoda: That was weirdly encouraging.

___

Kya: I should just talk to him. No sense in avoiding the topic. And risking potential heartbreak. Again.

Hakoda: *walking towards her with flowers* Kya!

Kya, blushing: Crap.

Hakoda: I'm really sorry about the other day. I did have fun with you and was wondering if you wanted to uh... go to the d-

Kya: *Panicks and runs away*

Hakoda: !!!

Kya: *ducks behind Ozai*

Ozai: What the-

Kya: Hakoda’s going to ask me to the dance!

Ozai: Gross.

Kya: Don’t say gross. I still like him.

Ozai: OK then go to the dance with him.

Kya: No gross.

Ozai: *rolls eyes*

Kya: We just started being friends again and I don't want dating to mess that up like last time.

Ozai: Well think fast because here he comes.

Kya: AH! Hide me!

Ozai: Where Kya? Between my pecks?

Kya: Oh! No that'll never work.

Hakoda: Hey Kya. Can I ask you something?

Ozai: Goodbye.

Kya, grabbing his arm: No stay!

Hakoda, nervous: Uh, would you like to go to the-

Kya, pointing: Look a distraction!

*Hakoda looks as Kya runs in the opposite direction*

Ozai: I don't know what's sadder. That excuse or the fact it actually worked.

///

___

Kya: *Hides backstage*

Hakoda, pulling back a curtain: Hello.

Kya: *jumps*

Hakoda: Hey, you don’t have to keep running away from me.  I already asked Malina to be my date to the dance.

Kya: Oh. Yay! You got yourself a pretty girl for the dance. I’m glad for you.

Hakoda: I just wanted to let you know so you don’t have to keep running away.

Kya: Thanks Hakoda.

Hakoda: See you in class. *leaves*

Kya: *throws a chair at the wall*

___

Malina: You and I need to talk.

Hakoda: Okay what do you want to talk about-

Malina: *drags him to the corner*

Hakoda: You yanked my arm!

Malina: Are you sassing me?

Hakoda: Okay that's it! I am sassing you!

Hakoda: Sassity sass sass sass!

Malina: Hakoda!

Hakoda: Look I don't mean to wreck your night but I don't want to go out with you anymore!

___

Ursa: Kya!

Kya: I don't want to talk to you!

Ursa: Please?

Kya, turning away: Hmph!

Ursa: *sighs*

Ursa, picking her up: Here we go!

Kya: *screams* Ursa!!!

Ursa, to the crowd as she carries her: It's okay she likes it!

Kya: What are you Kyoshi? Put me down!!

Ursa: *locks them in the janitor's closet*

Kya: Let me out!

Ursa: Kya-

Kya: This is kidnapping! Or Kya-napping? *shakes head* Open the door!

Ursa: I'm sorry. I'm seriously sorry.

INSERT DRAMA HERE

Ursa: What I did was terrible and awful and immature. You have very right to be upset with me. I swear Kya if I was you I'd punch me right in the face.

Kya: *punches her*

Ursa: Ow! Kya!!!

Kya: What?

Ursa: You just punched me in the face!

Kya, shrugging: You said to.

Ursa: I meant that as an express- Ow!!! *holds nose* I think my nose is broken.

Kya: Ok now I feel kinda bad.

Ursa: Don't. I deserve it. I'm sorry.

*They both hug*

Ursa: Will you take me to a hosptial now?

Kya: Sure.

___

Hakoda: Can I tell you something?

Kya: What?

Hakoda: Breaking up with you was the dumbest thing I've ever done.

Kya:

Kya: Can I tell you something?

Hakoda: Anything.

Kya: *kisses him*

[d0zuki]

Omg please can we get the Aladdin au but with killua x reader and maybe illumi x reader

It was rlly good I loved it and these two are perfect where they are the princess jasmine and we are the aladdin💗💗

“True Beauty” -"United we stand, divided we fall"

⋆˚࿔ Fancy carpet from Kuro𝜗𝜚˚⋆ :: a carpet to fly away

― ʚ summary ɞ ― Killua x reader Aladdin Au

― ʚ words ɞ ― 1k+

― ʚ warning ɞ ― mention of theft

― ʚ author note ɞ ― certainly you can Killua might be the only one I write with what you ask since it takes a while, but I might do Illumi version but as Headcanons and not full as story

You are known as quite the troublemaker around Agrabah, enough that the loyal family heard about you specifically the young prince Killua, who was curious about you I mean you seem like troubles but then again you seem like a lot of fun? Is that a word he can use? He's certainly unsure especially since he has a maniac for a mother

Killua was outside playing with Mike when suddenly his father came out with some news, some that made him be quite unhappy and even mad

"Killua"

"hm? What is it father?"

"to put it simply and fast, you will be getting engaged"

"I be what?!"

"you will be getting engaged"

"do I even get to choose who? Or most importantly aren't I too young? Why won't Illumi get engaged?!"

"You get to choose among royal people as to why, it's because I want you to be an heir, and Illumi already chose quite the odd fiancé"

"so because of that I'm next what about Milluki?"

"I don't think anybody would want to date him, willingly I mean"

"...you do have a point there, but-"

"no buts Killua, you do that whether you like it or not"

Before Killua could say something Sliva left to drink some wine with his wine

"well crap"

"now what should I do, I don't want to marry some spoiled ass brat, or one who certainly can't do anything else then lay around"

୨⎯ "With you" ⎯୧

Well fuck, you certainly a lesson for future thief to never have a monkey for a companion, you currently running from a shop seller after Abu you monkey took the sellers banana, and well you currently running as fast as you can since well you certainly don't want to be arrested maybe executed

"Abu just why did you have to take that Banana?!"

"hoo hoo hah Banana"

"...yeah you took a very nice banana but why? Also it looks like it's expired"

When you said that Abu spited the banana he had in his mouth

"Well it seems like I was correct"

You eventually lost the sales man and landed on the ground luckily not breaking your feet

"There we g- ouch!"

You bumped onto someone when you looked up it was a man that was dressed in black and red, he had a snake scepter, honestly his turban did a bad job you could see his back hair and a interesting mark on his forehead

"ah I'm so sorry I didn't mean to"

"hm I recognize you, you that thief person aren't you?"

"ahh... maybe?"

"hmmm, you know what I won't tell anybody where you are if you do something for me"

"and what would that be?"

"Just follow me"

"okayyy?"

You follow the man who during the walk introduced himself as Chrollo, eventually you got yourself to what it seems to be a cave

"mind I ask what you want me to do?"

"to put it simply to someone with your knowledge"

"hey!"

"forgive me, inside of the cave there's a golden lamp, I want you to get it for me"

"alright I suppose?"

You walked inside the cave and started looking for the said lamp until you heard a noise, Chrollo was moving a lock blocking the cave

"Hey wait!"

And he blocked it

"you have to be kidding me!"

You sat down on a pile of golden coins with Abu sitting down on your shoulder patting your head, Abu eventually noticed something and started jumping hitting you head

"Ow! Abu what do you want- oh it's a lamp, wait a lamp!"

You ran towards it almost tripping on the coins and gems, you eventually got to it

"hmm I wonder what is so special about it"

you were looking at it from different angles, eventually rubbing it until pink smoke appeared and a genie appeared

"well hello there, my name is Bisky ane and I'm a genie I will grant you 3 wishes but I can't kill anyone, can't make people fall in love and can't bring anyone back from the dead."

"you have quite a loud voice"

"you little! Ehh anyway do you have a first wish?"

"uhh wait what's your name"

"My name is [Y/N] and I wish to get out of here with Abu, my monkey"

"ahh okay then, you wish is my command"

And boom you outside with Bisky floating around you

"alright got the second wish?"

"not yet, you seem to really want me to make them fast"

"yes, that's because after that I'm going on vacation"

"that sounds nice, anyway I'm going to go and continue what I used to do"

"ah is that so, don't forget the lamp"

"I won't"

You returned back home and before anything someone ran into you

"Sorry I didn't mean to"

"it's al- wait aren't you the prince"

"...am I that recognizable?"

"who else has white hair here except you and your father?!"

"you have a good point, anyway could you hide me please?"

"ah sure? Uhh come fast"

Killua followed you and slowly he started to realize, you are the thief he heard about so much, honestly you looked cuter in person, after a few minutes you both alived at your house

"this day seems to be after me"

"hm? What do you mean"

"ah nothing much, anyway what going on?"

"my parents want me to find a fiancé"

"...wait aren't you still a kid"

"Royalty stuff plus they want me to be the heir"

"ah, alright then"

"and you ran off because you don't want that?"

"Yeah I did"

"trust me you won't be able to hide here for too long"

"you think I don't know that?"

"how am I supposed to know, trust me I know barely anything outside of stealing"

"You don't!?"

"no?! Fun fact you highness, our knowledge is far lower then yours"

"Alright let's stop yelling"

"I agree"

"so what am I supposed to do?"

"go back"

"what?! You nuts?!"

"no I'm not, think about it maybe just maybe one of those people will be nice just go back and see"

"ugh, alright I guess"

"great"

After that Killua left and returned, honestly he probably already chose his fiancé sadly the said person isn't a royalty, and as to you, you absolutely regret letting him go oh I think I forgot to mention you LOVED the prince dearly

"well that's interesting"

"holy shit! You scared me"

"sorry, I'm quite curious who's that?"

"Prince Killua he's one of the royalty, and may I say he's"

"cool?"

"amazing! He got those blue eyes and adorable smile, and his white hair"

"well sorry to say one of my rules said I can't make anybody fall in love with you"

"true... Wait but there is something else"

"hm? What would it be"

"Bisky right? I wish to become royalty"

"...oh you are quite sly, but anyway you wish is my command"

And it happened you got quite fancy clothing very fit for royalty and Bisky also changed into what it seems her human clothes with clothes you would assume would be for right hand woman or man

"well let's let Agrabah know about the arrival of the princess/prince Sanad"

"yeah let's do that"

୨⎯ "With Killua"⎯୧

I was sitting on a podium with my family, according to them few royalty were going to show up and have a little parade to introduce themselves, I was getting bored until the arrival of a parade full of elephants and a song sung by a girl that looked my age, on a top was a person whp according to the girl it was princess/prince Sanad

Prince Ali Song-by Will Smith

After the parade, I could talk to one of the royalty and was surprising to few people that I chose Sanad, while talking they told me to go out into my balcony at exactly midnight

୨⎯ "Midnight"⎯୧

Just as princesses/prince Sanad said I went outside and saw them but on a flying carpet?! They held their hand out and helped me get into the carpet, and it went flying around Agrabah

A Whole New World-Song by Zayn and Zhavia Ward

After that we arrived back onto my balcony and I couldn't help but laugh, after that they looked a bit upset while thinking before dropping a bomb on me

"I'm not actually royalty nor is my name Sanad"

"Wait then who are you?"

"[Y/N] the thief"

"that's even better!"

"Huh?!"

"it's quite odd to say for royalty like me, but I liked you as a thief now I find out the person I l also started liking is the same person"

"that made no sense"

"I know now shush, now [Y/N] will you do me the honour and let me become you fiancé?"

"wait that about your parents"

"don't worry about them I'll deal with them"

And Killua did as he said he begged his parents to let you become his fiancé and they said yes, after that you had your last wish for Bisky to become a full human and it was granted but not before one little part of Chrollo being banished, why? Well during your fun with Killua he tried to encourage Killua parents to let him become a king but well that didn't work, and you finally lived happily ever after with Killua as your fiancé.

[uramilf]

Mutual Attraction - Chapter Three

Warnings: SMUT. Oral sex (f&m receiving), unprotected sex, age gap relationship

Y/n lay in bed staring at the ceiling with tears in her eyes. As much as she wanted to, she couldn’t have a normal relationship with Matty. But he was all she thought about. Multiple worried texts from her friends confirmed that she spent entirely too much time thinking about their relationship and waiting for him to be free so they could spend time together. The events of their date played over and over in her mind. It had now been a full 24 hours and she hadn’t heard a word from him. She hadn’t called him, either, like she said she was going to. 

Her phone buzzed and she rushed to pick it up, heart sinking when she saw it was just Jasmine.  “Hey Jas,” she sighed. “Where have you been, girl? I’ve been so fucking worried about you!” “I’ve been with Matty a lot, I guess. “Shit, I can’t believe it’s actually true. You lucky bitch, I wish I was you.” “Hey, can you stop fancying my boyfriend please?” Y/n laughed, face screwing up when Jasmine squealed down the phone. “Boyfriend? What the fuck? I thought you were just sleeping with him!” “Well, we went on a date last night and made it official. But then we kinda got in an argument. I should probably sort that out.” “Damn, girl. Your relationship is complicated and it’s barely started,” Jasmine teased. “So you’re really not coming back to our class, then?” “Nope. They don’t really let you date your teacher.”

Y/n hadn’t been off the phone very long before she heard a desperate knocking at her door. A glance at the clock told her it was after midnight and she groaned, pulling herself up and making her way to the door. The second she opened it, Matty’s eyes met hers and she gave him a small smile. “Love, I’m sorry. I’m not ashamed to be with you. Not at all. I need you.” Y/n reached up to place a hand on either side of his face, pressing a kiss to his lips. “It’s ok. I understand. I don’t want you to feel uncomfortable at work or anything.” “I don’t darling. I promise. C’mere.” He pulled her into a tight hug and rested his chin on the top of her head. After a few minutes of swaying back and forth with Y/n in his arms, Matty shut the door and followed her to her room.

The pair lay sprawled on the bed, tangled in each other’s arms, laughing and talking about everything and anything. They stole kisses from each other between sentences the way one would pause for a breath between words. They needed each other’s touch; they felt they couldn’t survive without it. Y/n finished a story about her brand new chemistry lecturer and how he was good, but nowhere near as invigorating as Matty. She flopped down onto her back, head landing on Matty’s chest. As he looked at the girl nuzzling into the fabric of his shirt he was overcome with his need for her, and flipped them over quickly so she lay on her back, him hovering over her with an arm either side of her shoulders. 

Y/n stared up at Matty and smiled softly. “I need you,” he whispered, attaching his lips to the skin of her neck. “You have me. Always,” she replied. Y/n let out a soft moan when Matty’s teeth nipped at her neck, spurring him on to leave a red mark there, which he quickly soothed with a flick of his tongue and a much gentler kiss. “Do you want this, angel?” Matty asked. “So much. Please�� He was looking her in the eyes now, trying not to let his gaze drift downwards.  “Can I undress you, love?” Y/n nodded in response. “Words, baby. I need to hear you say it.” “Yes,” she managed to say, throat dry. “Yes, please.”

Matty tugged Y/n’s t-shirt over her head, almost unable to contain a moan at the sight of her bare chest. His hands travelled down over her sides, down her hips, thumbs slipping into the waistband of her shorts and pulling them down. He did the same with her lacy black underwear, breathing out a sigh of anticipation at the sight of her cunt, already growing wet. “Can I taste you, darling?” “Of course you can,” Y/n whispered back. Matty placed a hand on each of her knees and parted her legs, dipping his head down to kitten lick over her clit.  “Fuck, Matty,” she breathed out, a hand creeping to his hair, grabbing a fistful of dark curls. He wrapped his lips around her sensitive clit, hand rubbing up and down her inner thigh. “Jesus Christ,” she moaned, head thrown back in ecstasy, hips thrusting up to meet his mouth. Matty teased a finger over her slit before pushing in slowly, making her cry out. He pumped his finger in and out of her a few times, matching the rhythm of his tongue on her clit. Y/n grabbed harder at Matty’s hair. “Please, sir. Please.” He stopped what he was doing and looked up to meet her eyes. “I’m sorry!” Y/n cried out, a hand flying to cover her mouth. “That just slipped out!” “Don’t apologise, babe. That was fucking hot.”

Matty didn’t go back to working her towards an orgasm with his mouth, deciding he couldn’t wait any longer to be inside her, his cock straining against his black trousers. He tried to yank them down his legs as Y/n fumbled with the buttons on his shirt, pulling it down his arms and digging her nails into his tattooed shoulder as he kissed her messily. He hadn’t kissed her like this before; this rough, desperate, needy thing. As soon as he was undressed, Matty pushed Y/n back onto the bed, lying down almost on top of her again. His hand toyed with her clit as his tongue brushed against hers, moans spilling out of her mouth and into his. “I want you to ride me,” Matty groaned into the kiss. Y/n whined needily in response, giving him all the encouragement he needed to flip her over so she was straddling his hips. She was so wet she was practically dripping onto his hard cock, and it didn’t go unnoticed. “Fuck, babe, you’re so wet for me. You gonna show me how well you can fuck me, yeah?” “Shit, yeah. Sorry, I’ve never done this before.” “It’s ok, babe, just go slow.” Y/n nodded and sank down onto him, hands gripping his shoulders, encouraged by the noises he made when he entered her. She rolled her hips against his, clenching around him at the feeling of his tip rubbing her g-spot. She continued her smooth, rhythmic movements until the neediness got the better of her and she started bouncing on him, the feeling of his cock slamming into her and stretching her out again and again almost too much for her to handle. Grunts and groans escaped Matty’s mouth, eyes fixed on her tits bouncing in front of her face. “God, darling, you’re fucking incredible.” “I bet you’ve had plenty of girls do this to you, huh?” she panted, grinning at him. Matty moved his hands from their position on her waist to grab handfuls of her ass, smirking back at her. “None as beautiful as you - oh fuck!” He was interrupted by the feeling of Y/n’s cunt clenching around his length tighter than a vice as she came on his cock. The feeling tipped him over the edge too, and he used the few seconds he had to pull out and grab his length, slick with her arousal, fucking into his own hand a few times. Y/n climbed off him and reversed further down the bed, leaning forward with her tongue outstretched. Matty moaned her name as he came, every last drop landing on her pink tongue. When he was finished, she swallowed and let out a laugh.

“What are you laughing at, hmm?” Matty smiled sleepily, arms outstretched for her. She fell forward onto his chest and pressed a kiss to his cheek. “I don’t even know. Just happy.” Matty cuddled her into his chest, rubbing a cheek over the top of her head, her hair tickling his skin and catching in his light stubble. “I want to take you away somewhere,” he offered into the dark room. “Where?” “Vienna, maybe. Or Paris. At Christmas time.” “Okay, and what are we gonna do there?” “Anything you want, baby. Anything at all.”

---------------------------------

Three Months Later

Y/n had originally thought Matty was joking about taking her on a trip at Christmas, but here she was, a few days after she had finished class for the holidays, sitting on Matty’s sofa beside a fully packed suitcase. He was in the dining room, marking a few last-minute papers before they went away, hoping it would leave him less busy when they returned from their trip. Y/n was bored. She wanted him all to herself now, and here he was, still thinking about work. She stood from her seat and made her way in to him, perching herself on his lap and running a hand through his hair. Matty tried his hardest not to melt into her touch. “I know you want to get going to the airport, love, but I’m almost done here and then we can have all the time in the world together.” “Mhm. I know. I just want you now, y’know?” Matty laughed and rubbed a hand up and down her back, attempting to ignore the growing heat in his stomach that originated with her sitting on his lap, he clothed core right against his cock. She knew he was getting hard, she could feel it.

“Seems like you might want me now, too, huh?” “Fuck, love, I can’t. I need to get these papers marked before we go.” “That’s ok, baby. You keep working. I’ll take care of you.” With that she sank to her knees in front of him, fumbling with his belt and the zip of his blue jeans, pulling the waistband of his boxers down to reveal his hardening dick, moaning when she took him into her mouth. Flicking her tongue over her tongue, she took what she couldn’t fit into her mouth in her hand, pumping him mercilessly. The papers lay abandoned on the table, his eyes screwed shut, one of his hands finding her free one and clasping it hard. His other hand grasped the edge of his chair, knuckles turning white. Y/n hollowed her cheeks and took his cock further into her mouth until he was almost balls deep in her throat. He thrust his hips forward, groaning her name as she continued to suck him, her eyes not leaving his perfect face or the desperately pleasurable look plastered on it. Beads of sweat were forming on his forehead as his short fingernails dug into the back of Y/n’s hand. 

Y/n kept bobbing her head up and down on Matty’s length until she felt him twitch inside her mouth and spill his load over her tongue. She swallowed, feeling him coat her tongue. He was panting for breath, hand still clasping hers. “Fuck, darling. You’re perfect. That was perfect.”

-----------------------------

The couple lay in bed together in a tiny hotel room in Vienna, staring at the tiny flakes of snow falling outside the window. A perfect day spent venturing around the Christmas markets still fresh in their minds. It was freezing but they cuddled up close together, their body heat still radiating from one to the other after the multiple orgasms they had shared. “Y/n? I need to tell you something,” Matty said softly, stroking her hair. Her heart sank. Was he breaking up with her? Had he only brought her here to enjoy what time they had left together? “What is it?” she murmured in a small, worried voice. “Don’t worry, darling. Nothing bad. I’ve been offered a job at another uni in London. Not too far from home, better pay. It’s perfect, really.” “Matty, that’s great! You’re taking it, right?” “Well, that’s what I wanted to talk to you about. I don’t want anyone thinking I’m quitting because of something that’s happened between us. Are you okay with me taking the job?” “Absolutely, baby. Let people think whatever they want, I’m proud of you.” “Thanks babe. I love you.”

Y/n froze. Had she heard him right?  “What did you just say?” she giggled. He rolled his eyes jokingly.  “I said I love you, darling.” “I love you too,” Y/n laughed. Suddenly they couldn’t stop laughing, overcome with absolute elation. When they eventually calmed down, Matty kissed her hard on the lips and she sighed, resting her forehead against his.

“I love you, Y/n,” he repeated.

[spicywhenspeaking]

If I'm There: Chapter Eleven

Read from part one

Summary: Noah and Natalie met in high school and developed a relationship through their love of music and art. Falling in love, innocent and young, they think nothing can keep them apart. However, sometimes in the pursuit of your dreams the things we love the most get left behind.....

this story will sometimes contain mature content, minors DNI

warnings: underaged drinking (don't do that!), mentions of alcohol abuse

taglist : @lma1986 @cookiesupplier @notingridslurkaccount @blackveilomens @thisbicc @thebadchic

“You're going to freak!” Noah says excitedly into the phone and I startle a little at the sudden mood shift. “Oh, what is it?” I ask. “Get this Natty. A band dropped out of the west coast leg of these guys' tour- Jasmine Feuds- and their manager asked us to join them.” what? “It's two weeks, eight shows along the east coast. Isn’t that amazing?” Noah’s voice is filled with a childlike glee, like this is the treasure he's been digging for all his life. “Oh, wow.” I fall back onto my bed, into the pillows.

The scrambling emotions in my head are all over the place, two weeks on the road seems like a lot but I guess I should just try and be supportive. “That sounds amazing Noah but, what about school?”

He lets out an unconcerned laugh “school is whatever, I’ll just make up the work when I get back but I don't really care because this is a huge for Iron Vendetta.” I pause. “Iron Vendetta?” I question.

He laughs again. “Yeah, we had to come up with something fast so they could put it on the flier.” It’s been a long weekend and I don’t quite know how to process this on top of everything else. I guess it’s really not that complicated…my mom just almost died from alcohol poisoning and now my boyfriend is telling me he's leaving for two weeks to go be a rockstar.

“You already said yes?” I finally ask in a small voice. We’ve only been dating for 5½ months but I figured he’d talk to me at least before committing to something like that. Wouldn’t a boyfriend do that? Not that I have anything to compare it to. I'm lost in my own thoughts and didn’t realize Noah had started talking. “-it’ll be insane Natty. Such a great opportunity, Kevin, the manager, said we’ll be playing in front of hundreds of people! Isn't that amazing?!”

The excitement in his voice is palpable but I can’t help but feel a sick heavy dread settling in my stomach. “Yeah, that sounds great Noah. Umm..I should really get started on some of my homework. When will you leave?” I ask. “End of the week..so I’ll need about every single second of your free time until then.” Despite the sadness I feel with the news of him leaving a small smile crosses my face at his words. “I want to get my fill of Natty time before being without you for two whole weeks.” 

After ending the call I work on my homework and prepare for the coming week. Monday comes and goes, Dad takes Mom to the treatment center and we go about seemingly normal. I spend a few nights at Noah's this week since he’s leaving soon but I tell my dad I’m with Maggie to keep him from freaking out. Kyle probably knows but doesn't say anything, which is a surprising change. I do have to push Noah out of bed those mornings so I can make it to school on time, he’s cute in the mornings. Friday morning we’re lazily cuddling and kissing, avoiding my alarm so we can steal more minutes together before he leaves tonight. I have work after school and he comes by on his way out of town. I take my fifteen-minute break making out with him outside of his car.

Nick was sitting in the passenger seat trying to busy himself with anything else. “I'm going to miss you so much Natty.” Noah says in between kisses. “I’m going to miss you too,” I respond hugging him close to me and resting my head against his chest as his arms pull tighter around me holding me closer. “I hope y'all have a good time, and I want to hear all about it when you get back.” My break is almost over so I’m leaning into his open window, “Good luck, and text me when you get to the first city okay?” I ask him and Nick. “yes ma’am” Nick responds playfully. As they drive away and I head back into work I try to shake off the feeling of loss. He’s coming back. Two weeks will go by fast. 

The first few days of the tour go well, I hear from Noah and Nick sporadically, with short texts and five-second phone calls before bed. On Thursday night I’m studying for a test after school and my phone lights up with his contact photo. It's him drinking a coffee I made him at work.

I answer excitedly “Hey Noah! I’m so glad you called! I’ve missed you so much!” There's loud music in the background “One sec-hicup-ond Natty, imtryna get outside,” Noah slurs and my heart falls. I haven't heard from him in a couple days and he's calling me drunk. What the hell. I can hear shuffling on the line and the music is slowly fading. “Okay babyy, I’m finally outside. I miss you, i cantwait to see you-hic- next Friday.” I hear the crunching of leaves under his heavy footsteps. “God, I miss how good you smell.” He huffs out as the footsteps stop and I’m guessing he finds a seat. “Noah? Are you okay? Are you drunk?” I ask. He laughs and hiccups like a child that's been caught with a cookie after bedtime. “Imnoth at drunk Nattty. Just had some driniks after teh show.”

His words all blend togher and It sends me back to conversations with my own mother. When I would ask her for help with my homework and she would slump over the table, her wine breath wafting over and infecting the air I was breathing. “Um Noah, maybe we should talk tomorrow when you're feeling more like yourself,” I say to him swallowing the pain in my throat. “Noo baby, plea-burp-se I need to hear your voice, I miss you so-hup-much.” My Mom used to drink and cry to my brother and I about how much she missed our Dad. “I’m sorry Noah, I can’t talk to you right now.” The freshness of my Mom's overdose still weighs heavy on me. “I love you so much Natty, you know that? You’re the prettiest girl ever.” I hear him yawn and hope Nick is somewhere close and sober. “Okay, I love you too, call me tomorrow okay?” He sighs and takes a deep breath “okay baby, I will callyou tomoro.” I click the end-call button and send a quick text to Nick. 

Natalie: are you with Noah? He just called me very drunk :/… 10:34pm

Nick: Yeah, sorry Nat. He had one to many after the show. I got him. 10:50pm

The next morning Noah doesn't call and I try not to think about it but I definitely feel frustration starting to build. Noah keeps promising to call and text but then never does or forgets and leaves me on read. I try to just focus on the school day and around lunch when I'm sitting with Maggie in the art room he finally texts me. 

Noah: Hey Natty. I’m so sorry about last night. 11:36am

Noah: I shouldnt have had that much to drink last night. 11:36am

Noah: can I call you when you get out for the day? 11:36am

Natalie: It’s okay noah. 11:45am

Natalie: I have work right after school 11:45am

Natalie: I can call you when I get off, it’ll be around 9pm. 11:47am

Noah: we go on at 8:45 tonight…can I call you after? 11:48am

Natalie: um…sure. I’ll try to stay up. 12:00pm

Noah: okay! Love you baby 12:01pm

Natalie: love u 2. 12:05pm

“So he finally texted back huh?” Maggie sneers slightly. She’s almost more upset about how he has been acting than me. “Yeah, he wants to call me tonight but I don’t know how late it will be,” I explain to her. “So what? You’re just going to sit around your phone all night waiting for him to call.” I understand she's just trying to be a supportive friend but I’m really trying to be positive about this whole thing. I knew he’d be busy on this tour and I’m trying to be the cool understanding girlfriend. “I’m not going to just wait around, if he calls me before I fall asleep then we will talk, or we’ll talk later. I knew this would be a busy trip for him.” I attempt to defend the situation even though I also find myself frustrated. She drops it after noticing me growing more upset. The rest of the day goes by and Maggie drives the two of us to work after school. 

Friday nights have been super busy lately since the owner started having live music. Tonight playing is a singer/songwriter from Austin named Naomi King, she's so cool and her music is soft and emotional. She grabs a tea after her session and we talk a little. “So what's life like in this little town?” she asks. “Austin isn't huge but the music, the nightlife, and the atmosphere makes it seem bigger. I can’t wait to go home soon. This was my last little stop on my way home.” she tells me, sipping her peppermint tea. “Oh wow, that sounds amazing. I’ve always wanted to get somewhere bigger than this place. It feels so small, shallow.” I reply. “I want to see what the world has to offer.” 

I end up staying later to help finish cleaning duties and once I get home and shower I don’t have the energy to stay awake to wait for Noah's call. 

In the morning I see I have an eight-minute long voicemail from Noah left at 2:34am. I press play and there's loud music playing in the background. He’s not saying anything so I’m confused, it’s not until I hear another muffled voice talking that I realize he pocket-dialed me.

“So do you think ya’ll join us in the next leg thats coming up?” a female voice asks.

rustle rustle “uh I’m not sure” Noah says but I hear what I think is Julius says “Hell yeah, we wouldnt miss that shit!” 

“Come on Noah, I miss you to much if you didn’t come.” the girls voice says again.

As much as I wanted to stop listening I feel the seed of jealousy taking root. Who is this girl? Why didn't he mention there was another girl on tour? Is that important? I feel like he should have at least said something.

“I dont know…maybe.” Noah says. 

“Maybe? Fuck this” I mumble to myself and exit the voicemail.

I text Maggie what happened, I know she already has a bit of a bad taste in her mouth from what I’ve already confided to her. But, I needed to talk to someone and Kyle and I aren’t there yet.

Maggie: WHAT THE FUCK?! 8:36am

Maggie: WHAT GIRL??? HOLD ON! 8:36am

Maggie: Im looking on instagram rn! 8:36am

I dont have instagram, I had a facebook for a couple of weeks but it was boring and my grandma kept sending me farmville requests so I deleted it.

Maggie: OMG! LOOK! 8:44am

Photo: Noah and a large group. He’s standing next to a girl and her hand is arround his waist, his arms are resting across his chest. The caption reads: “having so much fun touring with these guys! They are great!” and the user name is Alex Jacks.

Maggie: looks like shes the guitarist for Jasmines Fudes. 8:44

I’m staring at the photo she sent me. She’s so pretty. She’s so cool, she has long black hair with blue and pink streaks. She has tattoos and a lip ring. 

The jealousy I felt before is now a wild fire burning through my heart.

Part 12 here! !!!! xoxox later besties

[ikeromantic]

Luscious

A Barbatos fic, approx. 3500 words. Written as commission and kindly allowed to be shared here. Barbatos takes his love, Kara, out for a date. When he realizes how insecure she is about her appearance, he uses his devilish charm to show her how beautiful she is. TW: weight discussion, body image

Barbatos felt a slight twinge of jealousy as he watched Kara mount the steps to the castle. She was wearing another of Beel’s jerseys. The clothing didn’t suit her at all, but she looked comfortable, and the smile on her face made her beautiful no matter what she wore. He only wished it wasn’t another demon’s clothes draped over her.

She made a surprised moue when he opened the door before she could knock. “How did you know I was here already?” 

Barbatos smiled his little mysterious smile, but as her eyes went wider he chuckled and gave in. “It wasn’t any kind of magic. I saw you walking up from the window.”

Kara grinned. “Then does that mean you’re ready to go?” She peered past him into the castle. “Or does Diavolo need something before we head out?”

“The young master has what he needs for the day.” Barbatos held out his hand. “May I?”

She nodded, nervously tucking a bit of hair behind her ear before setting her palm against his. 

It felt like such an intimate gesture to him. This embrace of their intertwined fingers. Her skin was soft as satin and warm, and it sent a little thrill through him to hold onto her like this. A claim and an offer, all at once. She was his, and he made himself hers. 

“You have such a wide smile. What are you thinking about?”

“Hm? Oh, it isn’t important. Where would you like to go first? I believe we planned to visit a cafe and then go see the new wing of the botanical gardens. But we can do something else if you prefer?” Barbatos cocked his head, the tiny wings in his hair stretching with the question.

Kara considered the question, her eyes shading from grey to a darker green as she thought about it. “Mmm, let’s stick with the plan. I think it’ll be fun, so long as the carnivorous pitcher plant doesn’t eat me!” She giggled.

Barbatos squeezed her hand gently. “I would never let that happen.” 

It was a pleasant walk to the gardens, though the air was sharp with winter chill. The ever-dark skies sparkled with distant stars and the glow of the city’s lights. The botanical garden was impossible to miss. A giant glass sphere, it rose up against the velvet gloom, illuminated with a faint purple glow that raced and arced along the opaque panels. 

There was a decent crowd at the gates, but Barbatos bypassed the line. There were some benefits to being the Prince’s butler, afterall. Inside, the bustle of the street was quiet, subsumed by the thick, verdant leaves that grew along the walls and ceilings. 

“We should return in the spring,” Barb leaned close, his voice low and pitched for her ear only. “That is when the hell jasmine is in bloom. This entire path is covered in flowers.”

Kara leaned into him as he spoke, a little shiver running down her skin from the tickle of his breath. “That would be beautiful. But . . . does hell jasmine have some kind of effect? Because I don’t want to have to peel you off the ceiling or something.”

He grinned. “It does have a tendency to make us demons a bit more affectionate than usual.”

Her cheeks colored prettily and she looked down shyly. “That’s . . . good to know. I really need to brush up on my Devildom botany.”

“That is one reason we are here, no?” Barbatos cocked his head. 

“Yep.” She looked back up at him, regaining her equilibrium. 

Barbatos found her reaction to flirting adorable. She always seemed surprised by his interest, awkwardly flattered by his compliments. He loved seeing her eyes light up and her cheeks heat, even if she still tried to hide her reaction from him. 

The first display was a collection of frozen gerbera, all in wintry colors. Blue and white and faded grey, they exuded a brittle coldness. Their delicate petals glistened as if coated with a thin sheen of ice. 

“Hm. I remember these.” Kara shut her eyes. “They’ll freeze my eyeballs if I look for too long.”

“Bravo. Very good. That’s exactly right.” He stroked the back of her hand with his thumb. “In the Devildom, some of the most beautiful things are quite dangerous.”

“Guess that’s why I’m completely safe,” she gave a half-hearted laugh at her own joke.

Barbatos shook his head, guiding her away from the display. “I disagree, respectfully. You are one of the most dangerous creatures I know.” 

She laughed again, but didn’t reply - and he didn’t press the issue. She often made these little comments about herself, and he wasn’t entirely sure how to react. It was as if she did not know how exquisite she was.

The next display was the 666 leafed clover. A vast plant with so many leaves that it was best viewed from a narrow walkway suspended over it. Barbatos gestured for Kara to go first, but she shook her head. 

“That’s ok. I’d rather just look at it from here.” She smiled, but he could see it wasn’t genuine. There was shame in her eyes as she looked away.

“Kara, are you afraid of heights? I won’t laugh if you are.” Barbatos tugged gently at her hand, hoping she’d look at him again. He couldn’t understand her mood and wanted very much to know what had caused it. 

She shook her head. “N-no. It’s not that. Just . . .” She trailed off and then took a deep breath. “It’s pretty narrow. I’m too fat to go climbing on something like that.” Her laugh was as false as her smile. “It’s fine. I don’t need the view. The plant is pretty impressive from here.”

“Too . . . fat?” Barbatos raised an eyebrow. Kara was curvy, soft, and delectable. Her weight filled out her form, and gave her a voluptuous silhouette.

“Ahaha, yeah. I mean, you noticed already, right? It’s not like I can really hide it.” She shrugged, still not meeting his gaze. “Anyway, can we not talk about this?”

He lifted her hand to his lips and kissed the back of it. “As you like. I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable.”

Kara turned her head just enough to see his face, the corner of her lips lifting in a tiny half-smile. “It’s fine.” 

Barbatos did his best to keep the conversation light and flowing as they visited the next few exhibits. He kept up a running flow of commentary and questions, and it seemed to work. She was smiling again, a genuine grin that reached her eyes and lit her expression with joy. 

They left the gardens laughing, and talking. Kara was telling him about the plants in the mortal realm, and Barbatos listened with rapt attention. She was a smart woman, always open to learning. And he could see how much she loved sharing what she knew. It was one of the things he liked about her. 

She was so engrossed in their conversation that she didn’t see a huge puddle on the sidewalk. It was definitely deep enough to soak her shoes. Barbatos let go of her hand to reach for her waist, intending to lift her over the puddle. 

Kara nearly leapt out of his grasp as his hands settled on her middle. “What are you doing?”

“Keeping you safe and dry.” He smiled.

She finally noticed the dip in the sidewalk and the dirty water that filled it. “Oh! Eww. What is that even? It hasn’t been raining.”

“It has not.” He chuckled. “So let’s make sure it doesn’t get on you.” He started to lift her, but stopped at her shout.

“Hey! No need for that. I’ll just step around it.” Her smile went false again as she added, “Wouldn’t want you to throw your back out.” 

Barbatos frowned. “I’m not the strongest of demons. Not like Beelzebub, for example.” His gaze drifted to her shirt and he felt that hot, unpleasant jab of jealousy again. “But I can surely lift my lady over a puddle.”

Kara wriggled out of his grasp, tugging the shirt this way and that to make sure she was still completely covered and it hadn’t bunched from his grip. “I didn’t mean it that way, Barb. I know you’re strong. But I’m pretty heavy. You don’t need to go picking me up. I don’t -”

He’d let it go earlier, but he felt he couldn’t keep letting her insist on something that was not true. “Kara.” He said her name gently, but with a tone that could not be ignored. 

She stopped speaking mid-sentence. Her eyes were wide and full of deep embarrassment, as if she had done something she desperately wanted to hide. Kara began to look away, but Barbatos caught her chin.

“No. I apologize for being so forward, but I cannot let this continue.” He let go of her chin after a moment, and let his hand trace the line of her jaw, her neck, down the curve of her shoulder. “You keep making these comments about yourself. Negative comments.”

“Barb, I - I know how I look. And it’s just easier if I make jokes about it. It’s fine.”

Barbatos shook his head, his wings flicking in agitation. “It is not.” He took a breath, unsure how to best phrase what he needed to say. Despite his long years of life, he could count the number of close relationships he’d had on one hand, and still have fingers left over. 

Romantic love was a new territory for him, and he cared for Kara so much that he worried anything he might say would cause her hurt. But he could see she was hurting herself, over and over again. These thoughts, these jokes, and mean comments. They cut her, and she hid it behind a fake smile and a laugh, just as she hid her body beneath bulky clothes.

“Do you know why I asked you to go out with me?” He trailed a finger down her arm, his nail scraping the slick cloth of the Fangol jersey. 

“Umm. I guess because I like tea. And books?”

Barbatos nodded. “Those are some of the things I noticed about you. You are smart, and curious. But you are also beautiful.”

Kara’s cheeks pinked. “Ah. Thanks.”

“Do you know how pretty you are?” He stepped closer, his other hand coming to rest on her shoulder.

“I . . . I guess I have a nice face?”

Barbatos ruffled her hair. “Every part of you is nice.”

Her face went even hotter, until the tips of her ears were red. “You can’t say that. You haven’t seen all of me.”

He smiled. “No?”

Kara’s eyes went wide. “Have you? You haven’t, right? You wouldn’t use your power to - to -”

“No, I haven’t. But I can see you, Kara.” He let his hands slide down her sides, tracing the outline of her beneath the over-sized jersey. “There is nothing here that is not perfect.”

“Pffft. Please. I’ve been trying to diet with Asmo. And work out with Beel. I know I'm waaaay off perfect.”

Barbatos gently squeezed her hips. “To me, you are flawless. An exquisite beauty.”

Her mouth opened to reply, but then closed again. She was flustered, unused to such compliments. Unqualified by criticism, and without ulterior motive. Kara hugged him then, her arms wrapping around his waist, her face buried against his chest. 

He held her gently, stroking her back. There were no words needed, only touch. They stayed like that for several breaths. When Kara let go, Barbatos took her hand again. “I have an idea,” he told her.

Instead of the cafe, he took her to Majolish. 

“Erm. Not to ask a stupid question, but I thought we were going for lunch?” Kara raised an eyebrow. 

“We will. But first, I’d like to get you a gift.” Barbatos nodded to one of the sales clerks. He knew most of the staff here, from his orders for Diavolo. They hurried over, and after a quick, whispered conversation, hurried away again. 

Kara watched this exchange warily. “Barb, what are you planning?”

“Patience. You’ll see in a moment.” He gave her arm a reassuring squeeze. 

She sighed. “Alright.” 

A few moments later, the clerk came to get them, and led them to a private dressing room. A row of outfits hung from a rack, dresses and skirts and tops, several in shades of green. The clerk left them with a reminder to ring the bell if anything else was needed.

Once they were alone again, Kara gave him an unreadable look. “You want to buy me clothes?”

Barbatos nodded. “If you find an outfit you like, yes.” He gestured to the rack. “I would never tell you what to wear, but I’d like to spoil you with something nice, if you like.”

She nibbled at her lower lip as she considered, then nodded. “Alright. But only if I’m comfortable in it. When I come here with Asmo, he always picks the most ridiculous outfits.”

“I can well imagine.” He laughed, knowing the fifth brother’s style. 

Kara nodded as she walked to the rack. “I like my skirts to be a little longer than my shirts, you know?” She tugged conscientiously at Beel’s jersey. 

“Mmmm. I do know.” 

She picked through the clothes on the rack, settling on a dark green dress made from silvered spider-silk to try on first. 

Barbatos waited for her to come show him, but she didn’t emerge from the changing room for quite awhile. “Is everything alright, Kara? Do you need help?”

“N-no. I -” She cleared her throat. “Did you see the price tag on this?”

“I did not. Perhaps if you come out, I can check it?” 

There was a flurry of movement behind the door and then a reluctant Kara stuck her head out. “The tag’s on the sleeve.” She held her arm out toward him. 

Barbatos raised an eyebrow. “Could you come here? To me?”

She made a face, but after a moment complied. The dress was stunning on her. It hugged her curves, emphasizing her bust and hips in a complimentary way. The dress was a perfect length for her frame too, just long enough in the legs to make her seem taller than she was. 

“You’re smiling again. Don’t tell me you’re thinking about nothing.” She put a fist to her hip and frowned.

“I was just thinking how beautiful you look in that.” He tilted his head, the wings in his hair gave a contented stretch. 

Kara’s face heated, and she clasped her hands in front of her as if trying to cover up. “I don’t know. It’s too tight. And it’s not very practical at all. And expensive!”

Barbatos shrugged. “Don’t look at the tag. Just tell me how you feel in it.”

“Exposed.” Her frown deepened. 

“Then choose something else. I want you to be happy with what you pick too.” Barb gestured. “And I will enjoy the fashion show.”

That coaxed a laugh from her. “A fashion show? With one person?”

“With my favorite person.” 

Her shy smile was so adorable that he wanted to kiss her. Kara nodded after a moment, and went to choose another outfit. This time a light green skirt and cream top. She came out of the dressing room without being coaxed this time, though she was clearly uncomfortable. Her hands kept fluttering to her waist, tugging the shirt down to make sure her belly didn’t show. 

She went back again and again, discarding each outfit. Too short, too tight, too low cut, too much back revealed . . . it seemed as if she wouldn’t be happy unless the clothes fit her like, well, like one of Beel’s old shirts. No matter how Barbatos complimented her, she simply could not see her own beauty.

She was on the next to last outfit. A velvety dress with dark green buttons and delicate crystal beading along the bodice. It was gorgeous on the hangar and Barbatos couldn’t wait to see what it would look like on her.  

He could hear her in the changing room, the rustle of clothing and muttered curses. After a long moment, she called out. “Can you come help me? These damn buttons were clearly made by devils.”

“Clearly,” he chuckled.

Kara opened the door enough for him to see the problem. She couldn’t see the tiny buttons to match them to the small button-holes. Her fingers kept sliding over the fabric, getting nowhere. “You know, it’s probably fine. I think this one’s too -”

He stepped inside, letting the changing room door shut. The space was smaller than he’d realized, and with him inside, Kara was nearly pressed up against the mirrored wall. “Sorry,” Barbatos murmured, though he didn’t feel truly sorry. Her closeness was more than pleasant.

“It’s fine,” she replied breathily, turning so that he could get at the buttons. Like this, she was facing the mirror, her back against him. 

Barbatos ran his hands lightly up her back, enjoying the little shiver of pleasure she gave. “This dress is lovely on you.” He began doing up the buttons, taking a bit more time than strictly needed.

Kara tried to take a step back to get a better look in the mirror, but there wasn’t space. “I don’t know.”

“Mmmm. I do.” He leaned forward, so that his lips nearly touched her ear. “The color brings out your eyes, green as the deep forest with just a hint of silvery moonlight.” His hands, done with the buttons, drew slowly down her back. “The velvet fabric is a hint at the delicate softness beneath.” 

Her eyes fluttered closed at his touch, and she let out a slightly ragged exhale. 

Barbatos pressed closer still, knowing the move was ungentlemanly, but unable to stop himself. Kara woke something in him, a most uncouth flame, one he did not wish to extinguish even as etiquette demanded. He let his hands rove across her hips. “The silhouette flatters your shape, and shows you to good advantage.” 

Kara made a sound in her throat. She turned toward him, her full, luscious figure against his chest, her face so close to his that he could feel the ghost of her breath on his cheek. 

“You are so beautiful that I cannot help but want to touch you. To kiss you.” He reached with one hand to brush his thumb over her lower lip. If the velvet of the dress was soft, what word then for her lips? He couldn’t think of one, not with the pounding of his heart and the flames of need racing through his veins. “May I?”

“Yes,” she sighed, her eyes opening. There was such vulnerability in them. A fragile delicacy that made his heart ache. 

Barbatos kissed her. He meant it to be gentle, a sweet first kiss. And that was how it started. The exchange of breath and life, the press of her warm mouth to his. Her hands settling on his shoulders as his hands went around her waist. But the feel of her against him was almost more than he could bear. The temptation of her. 

The kiss deepened as her lips opened to him. His tongue delved past them and into the silky heat of her mouth. Caressing her, tasting her. 

Kara kissed him back with just as much passion. She did not simply yield. Her tongue played against his, teasing, exploring. She slipped between his lips, all heat and fire and sweetness. Her fingers tangled in his hair, tugging lightly. The touch sent fire racing down his spine, an electric jolt of pleasure that made him want more. 

It was only with great reluctance and a burst of willpower that Barbatos drew back from the kiss. He felt breathless, undone. His normally unflappable demeanor swept away. He tried to regain his composure.

“Your - your hair,” she said after a moment, and reached to straighten it. Barb stood completely still, enjoying the sensation of her grooming him. It was strange and pleasant to be taken care of. 

He laughed softly, and caught her hand as she drew away, kissing her fingertips. “Thank you.”

Red suffused her cheeks, as if she suddenly realized what they’d done. Making out in the changing room. “S-sure.”

“I’ll step out and give you a moment.” He let her hand go and backed out of the tiny space. 

Kara came out a moment later, still sporting spots of pink in her cheeks. “Do you . . . really think it looks nice?”

Barbatos was almost surprised by the question. “I do. You are gorgeous. But, how do you feel?”

Her jaw tightened, and for a heartbeat he thought she would reject this option as well, but then she nodded. “I . . . I feel pretty.” A trembling smile rose to her lips. “If you still want to get me something, I think - I think I like this one.”

“An excellent choice.” He took her hand and spun her about slowly. “I think I may have to take you dancing, to celebrate.”

“The dress?” She peered up at him, a skeptical eyebrow raised.

Barbatos laughed. “No, not the dress. I want to celebrate our first kiss. The first of many, I hope.”

Kara’s smile widened, her eyes shining silver as starlight. “Me too. In fact . . . could we . . .”

He answered by pulling her close and kissing her again.

[arwainian]

Reading This Week 2024 #27

words

Finished:

Counting Out Stitches by chinuplargepup (chinuplilpup) on ao3 ough... Dick and Joey....what an excellent point in time to set this too

The King is Dead, Long Live the King by Havendance on ao3 an excellent fic about what if Batman actually for real died and stayed dead. sad, interesting, very well written, I'd been meaning to finish it for ages and just this past week finally read the third and final chapter

a conversation at 4:30am by xscintillate on ao3

the rest of the Lesbian Historic Motif Podcast's fiction backlog:

"Cardinal's Gambit" by Catherine Lundoof, narrated by Onerae Clark "Your Fingers Like Pen and Ink" by Jeannelle M. Ferreira, narrated by Violet Dixon "Give Us This Day" by Jennifer Nestojko "A Soldier in the Army of Love" by Diane Morrison, narrated by Laura Pinson "The Adventuress" by Catherine Lundoff, narrated by Heather Rose Jones "Margaret" by Eleanor Musgrove, narrated by Heather Rose Jones "Moon River" by Mandy Mongkolyuth, narrated by Heather Rose Jones "Abstract" by Kat Sinor, narrated by Jasmine Arch "Palio" by Gwen C. Katz, narrated by Violet Dixon "The Spirit of Cabassus" by Ursula Whitcher, narrated by Heather Rose Jones "A Farce to Suit the New Girl" by Rebecca Fraimow, narrated by Violet Dixon "The Wolf that Sings on the Mountain" by Miyuki Jane Pinckard "From the Bird's Nest" by Jennifer Nestojko, narrated by Emma Ross "The Pirate in the Mirror" by Catherine Lundoof, narrated by Heather Rose Jones "To the Fair Muse who, Loving Me, Imagin'd More" by Annemarie KD, narrated by Heather Rose Jones "The Salt Price" by B. Pladek, narrated by Jasmine Arch "Battling Poll" by Rose Cullen, narrated by Heather Rose Jones "Daughters of Derbyshire" by Daniel Stride, narrated by Heather Rose Jones

my favorites were "A farce to suit the new girl" and "Battling Poll"! check them out, and check out the whole podcast

We Could Be So Good by Cat Sebastian like I said last week when I started reading it, enjoyable but not super compelling! But i like the relationship dynamic that's set up between the leads, so it was sweet and I finished it

"Consent" by Emily A. Owens absolutely a must read in terms of thinking through what the place of consent is in discussions of sex and sexual violence

"Sexual Violation and the Question of Experience" by Linda Martín Alcoff

"On Not Being a Victim: Sex, Rape, and the trouble with following rules" by Mary Gaitskill an essay on date/acquaintance rape, and how we understand being and feeling violated. it takes a little digression into attitudes about PC moral purity in opinions about media. all of it written from a personal anecdotal perspective that I think is written deeply compassionately to one's past self and will be sticking with me. however I don't like how it picks up race as a topic at the beginning and then quickly drops it

"Convicted Rapists' Vocabulary of Motive: Excuses and Justifications" by Diana Scully and Joseph Marolla

"The Right (Way) to Represent: The Emotional Politics of Remembering Mass Rape in Germany After 1945" by Katherine Stone

Always the Almost by Edward Underhill recently released YA romance I read for the queer lit bookclub bc its a gay romance involving a newly out trans boy. I have many complaints but the group chat has already heard them

Witch Hat Atelier, Vol. 12 by Kamome Shirahama, translated by Stephen Kohler I finished reading this RIGHT before I saw the trailer for the anime. i am overjoyed! excellent art and storytelling as always

Uzumaki by Junji Ito finished reading this right after the new Shelved by Genre episode came out, bc its due back at the library soon! has the sort of dramatic denouement that I was missing in Tomie

"The Unwanted Guest" by Tamsyn Muir borrowed @quiriusblack's copy of Nona the Ninth to finally read this bonus story. i love palamedes he's so insufferable

What Did You Eat Yesterday? Vol. 11 by Fumi Yoshinaga, transalted by Jocelyn Allen cute as always

Started/Ongoing:

You Should be So Lucky by Cat Sebastian set in the same friend group as we could be so good, this one has marginally more plot and I'm liking in better! love the main couple, and I like that they have similar struggles to the first around like living authentically as gay people in the 1950s and 60s and also trying to live safely

The Way of the Househusband, Vol. 11 by Kousuke Oono thought I had already read this but I guess I had not! as always light silly fun

[chaosduckies]

Their First Date

Surprise! Here’s a little gift from me to you for getting me to 50 followers! I hope you guys like it :D

Word Count: 4.5k

CW: None!

———Nathan———

Things were great. Amazing even. A month out of school and nothing bad has happened. Yet. I was still afraid that something horrible might happen since my luck is just like that. When I have something good, it just gets stripped away from me. Hopefully not now though. I mean, I couldn’t ask for anything better really. Ryker asked if I wanted to live here now that we were… dating. He said he also didn’t want me to be lonely all of the time so how could I say no to that generous offer? 

My only problem was that I couldn’t help out much. Like at all. I mean I could cook for Lucky and Angela and all of that, but I couldn’t do anything to help Ryker, which was one of my main reasons for coming on top of helping take care of his siblings. So there goes that plan down the drain. It never stopped me from at least trying to though. When he was cooking I’d try to push some of this things he needed closer. Of course I could barely even do that and he just picks it up effortlessly whenever he did need it. I try to walk around on my own, but since there aren’t any human accommodations at the moment, I can’t even get around anywhere without him carrying me around. 

I felt bad, but I had no idea what to do. It just kind of feels like I was there just to be there. That makes sense, right? 

Today wasn’t any different. I made some breakfast for Lucky and Angela like usual, walked out into the living room to see that everyone else was already eating their own breakfast, and just waited for Ryker. Again, I couldn’t just climb up the couch, nor did I really want to ask anyone to just let me on. 

Ryker walked into the room, yawning before holding out his hand for me. I climbed on, being placed on the armrest as usual. I still didn’t really understand how this whole… “relationship” thing works. I mean I did sort of, but not really. Right now it just feels like we’re still acting like friends. Like, what else were we supposed to do? We’ve only ever kissed twice, the night after we had graduated, and I don’t know if that was only a one time thing. I don’t know! I should probably ask him or tell him that I don’t know how any of this works but I had no idea how he’d react. Lately we’ve just been around each other, he’s kept me a lot closer and I absolutely love it (Curse being touch starved beyond repair-), he lets me sleep with him if I want to and he’s just…agh. He knew more about this than I did that was for sure. 

“Did you eat?” Ryker whispered so quiet that only I had heard him. I turned to face him, nodding my head. Last night we stayed up pretty late. We weren’t even doing anything either. I was just listening to him like we used to do. I never realized how much I loved listening to his voice. Was that the reason I loved him? He had mentioned something about maybe applying to a college, but he didn’t really know if he could handle it.  I wanted to say, “Of course you can!” Or really anything, but I didn’t. And I should have. 

“Did you?” I mumbled. He gave a slow nod, closing his eyes while listening to whatever conversation was happening in front of us. I slightly frowned, worried. Was he more tired because of me? He never used to be like this, even while we were still in school. Maybe it was because he has been thinking hard about enrolling into a college? Then again I’ve noticed that he tries his hardest to make as much time for me as possible. I had no idea why, and I always feel bad that I’m keeping him up. So was it really me? 

  I winced at the thought, but didn’t dwell on it for so long. I can just ask him, right? Yeah. Just ask him and then you’ll get your answer. It’ll all be fine… 

After everyone had left, Jasmine grabbing a blanket and tossing it over Ryker, who looked about ready to just pass out from the lack of sleep. Should’t I be the one to do that? I played with my hands, heart beating faster. Jasmine came back from the kitchen with a mug filled with tea and ordered Ryker to go to sleep. He just smiled softly and thanked her as she headed off to Isabelle and Angela’s room. I can’t do any of that for him… 

I sighed, turning my body to grab the human-sized pillow and blanket to wrap myself up. I didn’t have anything to do today. Usually everyone goes off and does their own thing. If they had left they’d tell either Ryker or me and then go. I mean I’m glad that they don’t think I’m messing up everything around here, but still. Was I the only one here who thought that I was just being a nuisance? 

“Nathan, you okay?” Ryker had asked, sitting up with the same worried look in his eyes as always. I nodded, “I should be asking you the same question.” I stared down at the fabric I was sitting on. I felt so bad. I wish I could do so much more. I wish I could be the one to take care of him when he’s sick or tell him to rest when I knew he needed it. Instead I was just stuck and forced to watch others do my job. That is what I’m supposed to do, right? Take care of your partner? 

“Hm? I’m fine. Just a little tired.” He smiled, his hand opening palm-up to face me. I hesitantly climbed on, wondering if this was the right choice. Did he want me to take a nap with him? My face flushed a deep red at the realization. In front of everyone? If they come to the living room they’ll see us. I guess there wasn’t really a reason to feel so embarrassed aside form the constant teasing from Dylan and Lucky later. 

“Would you mind going out with me later? Just the two of us.” He had asked, still sitting up. I jumped, a little shocked at the question. Go out? Like-Like on a date? 

“W-with m-me?”I squeaked out, earning a little laugh from Ryker. 

“Who else would I go on a date with? Plus, I know we both don’t like crowded places, so it’s a small place I know.” He waited for my answer. How could I say no? I’ve never been on a date either. But wouldn’t that just make him more tired?He wouldn’t be embarrassed by me? It’s not entirely unheard of a human to be with a giant but isn’t it… weird for him? He’s also said he’s never kissed a human before, so this was new for Ryker too? 

“Sure!” I smiled, trying to cover up my worry. Won’t people look at us weird for being together? Being friends with a giant and dating one are two different things. I think at least. If other people catch on that we’re dating wouldn’t they say something about it? No one has yet, but still. I was always afraid of that. That maybe it’ll eventually get to Ryker and then he’d really leave me. 

Ryker slightly cupped his hand a bit more, a soft smile on his face, “Did you want to go somewhere else? I’ll just take a short nap.” He had offered before resting his head on the pillow lying next to him. I shook my head, climbing off his hand as soon as he was comfortable. 

“Get some rest.” I mumbled, my mind debating on getting closer or staying where I was at. Ryker didn’t reply, but closed his eyes and shoved the hand that was holding under the pillow. I stayed as quiet as I could be before deciding to lay down and close my own eyes. So it was decided. We were officially going on our first date. 

——————

When I woke up, there was no looming presence near me like when I had fallen asleep. I pushed myself up, rubbing my eyes and looking around while my vision came back to me. Ryker wasn’t lying next me anymore. I jumped, looking around the living room and finding Dylan sitting on the other side of the couch with Lucky on his shoulder while playing a game on the tv. 

I tried to stay quiet, hoping they wouldn’t notice me being awake while they were hyper focused on whatever game they were playing with no volume. Did they not want to wake me up? Dylan quietly groaned while glaring back to Lucky on his shoulder, who I was guessing was sticking his tongue out like some child. That actually fits him extremely well. 

Dylan turned his gaze to me, taking a second to realize that I was awake. 

“Oh! Sorry we didn’t wake you up, right?” Dylan asked, letting Lucky down next to me, who was wearing a huge smirk on his face. Here comes the teasing of course… It was actually pretty funny though. 

“N-no.” I shook my head. 

“You were sleeping with himmm.” Lucky laughed. My cheeks flushed red from embarrassment as I didn’t really know how to reply to that. What was I supposed to say? “Sorry for sleeping with your brother.”? Yeah, that was not happening. Imagine if he found out that we basically sleep with each other every night. He already tries to get me to kiss him, but I’m always hesitant about that. It’s not that I don’t want to. It’s more like if Ryker even wanted to in the first place. Plus, I doubt he can even feel it unless he really focused. Why was I thinking about this right now? 

“He’s just taking a shower right now. He told me to help you down if you woke up.” Dylan shrugged. That makes more sense. But shouldn’t Ryker still be sleeping? Why didn’t he just wake me up? Was it a bad idea to stay with him? Wait, just calm down. I took a short deep breath before standing up and trying my hardest to regain balance on the cushiony surface. 

“Th-thank you.” I spoke a little louder than a whisper so Dylan could hear. He let me climb onto his hand and slide me off onto the floor. I’ve been getting closer with everyone lately. Mostly because I’ve been staying here for the past month, but still, I always try to avoid asking for favors and to let them help me because I didn’t know if they’d eventually get annoyed. Stupid, right? It’s still a possibility. 

I walked over to the human-sized rooms, checking the time on the digital clock by the fridge reading that it was almost one in the afternoon. I had no idea if Angela was hungry or not, but Lucky didn’t mention anything. I guess I’ll wait until Angela comes and finds me. In the meantime… I should probably figure out what I want to wear later tonight. I didn’t want to look indecent, plus I had no idea where he was even taking me. He said somewhere not crowded so I guess it would be fine. 

In the end, I just chose a simple t-shirt with my blue jacket and some jeans. It’s not really that fancy but I doubt either of us were going to wear anything like we were going to a five star restaurant. It seemed fine to me. I laid them out on the couch and went back to the living room where Dylan and Lucky were still playing their game. I didn’t want to bother them, so I just walked around the place, enjoying the little peace I had. As much as I loved staying here, I had no idea how Ryker handles everything all at once. At least I’m helping. Even if it really wasn’t much. 

There was only one more month before everyone but Ryker and I had to go to school, but even then I’m pretty sure Ryker is going to apply for college if I can convince him to. I mean he does deserve it, but I also don’t want him to be overloaded with things. He can do online courses and take in person twice a week. That doesn’t sound too hard and I can try my hardest to take care of things over here. I doubt I could, but still. 

——————

It was around seven at night, I was dressed up in the clothes I had laid out, waiting for Ryker to finish changing. I couldn’t help but feel the teasing stares as Dylan and Lucky were both whispering about something I couldn’t exactly hear. Isabelle and Angela were busy playing in their room and Jasmine’s attention was glued to the tv, but I could tell how much she just wanted to slightly tease me too. I sucked in a shaky breath and just kept waiting. 

“Hey Nathan, going on a date?” Dylan had asked, switching seats to right next to me. My face flushed a deep red from embarrassment. He can probably make a really good guess from that. I let go of the breath I was holding, hesitantly nodding my head. Don’t get me wrong, I do really want to go with Ryker, but what if I do something wrong? Would that make things awkward? Would he kick me out? I technically do have a place to go but I don’t think I could really handle that. Mentally wise. 

“Just leave him alone, Dylan, you’re gonna make him self-conscious.” Jasmine chuckled as Dylan muttered an apology. 

“Hey I’m just trying to say good for him.” He shrugged, turning his own attention to the tv. My heart started beating faster the second I heard Ryker’s door open. My breath nearly caught in my throat seeing that he was wearing a sweater than looked a little baggy on him, but I think that was the look he was going for. People would look at him because he’s wearing a sweater in the middle of summer, but then again I’m wearing a jacket so I can’t say anything. Instead of his usual pants with the chains on the side he was wearing gray cargo pants. This was nothing like how he usually dresses up. Did he dress up for me? Now that makes me think I should’ve worn something better. 

“Ah, um, I-I know it’s not a suit or anything, but I don’t really feel comfortable wearing anything like that-“ 

“Ryker wearing something other than a hoodie? Nathan, he has it bad for you.” Dylan whispered that last sentence to me, my brain nearly frying. Wh-wha? Why did I think it was such a big deal that he was wearing a sweater instead of a hoodie? It didn’t mean anything. Why was everyone shocked as soon as he stepped into the living room? Why was my face turning into a very noticeable red? Oh wait I should probably hide that- 

Ryker was blushing nearly as much as I was. 

“So where are you two going?” Jasmine laughed as Ryker somehow managed to calm himself down before walking closer to me. 

“Somewhere. We’ll be back before midnight.” He answered as I quickly climbed onto his hand, trying to hide my blush from his eyes, though I’m sure he’s already seen it. This is so embarrassing… 

Ryker closed the door behind us, taking moment to look down at me. I’m guessing he just wanted to get out of there as fast as possible. I couldn’t thank him enough for that. I’m pretty sure if Dylan had said one more thing I would have passed out. But here I was, completely conscious and about to hopefully have the best night of my life. 

“S-sorry. Dylan can be a bit much,” He chuckled, taking a good look at me before smiling, “You look good.” 

I couldn’t get my voice to work for me, but I eventually forced it to. 

“You too.”

Was this what it felt like to be on a date? I had no idea. All I know is that I had butterflies in my stomach and I was absolutely not feeling good. Was that because I was nervous? Yup. Probably. 

“You ready to go?” He had asked softly as I nodded my head in response. No, no I wasn’t. It felt like everything that I had eaten today was about to come right back up. Not really, but that’s what it felt like. Hopefully I can get through this. 

—————-

The place Ryker was taking me was some sort of small little restaurant where only a few people were. Of course some of the people we passed by were staring, but I couldn’t tell if it was because we were both wearing some kind of jacket, or it was because we were here. Together. On a date. Should I be worried about those people? 

The waiter had taken us to our seats, gave Ryker a menu and told us that he would be back in just a few minutes. The place was quiet except for the music playing in the background. I looked around the place, seeing that almost everyone here was either on a date or just hanging out with friends. There was a human side to the place, but there were only four people there. Otherwise I was the only human on this side as far as I knew. It just made me a little bit more nervous. A lot, actually. 

Ryker was also looking around, almost immediately looking back when a group of people had looked at him, snickering. What was that all about? I couldn’t really hear, but I could take a really good guess. It was because of me. Like I had said before, after school, not many humans and giants stay friends. Another reason why I was so worried about Ryker leaving me before. They only stay friends throughout school just to have some sort of superiority over others. Now, no one really cares about that. 

There were of course human-sized tables which I had sat down on, but I wasn’t exactly given a menu. I wasn’t really all that hungry either. At least I think. 

“I’ll order for you if you want. I know you don’t feel comfortable talking with new people.” Ryker had smiled despite the whispered behind him. The group looked like they were all at least in their late twenties or early thirties. On a double date maybe? Again, I had no idea what I was even doing. 

“Oh! Thank you.” I mumbled, grateful that he had offered before I could have a panic attack in front of the waiter. I was so used to just hanging out at the cafe Ryker works at. Sometimes I’d make the long walk just to come visit him or just to hang out with some of his co workers. Like Nylah. It’s usually quiet there, and even when it’s not it’s because the workers were all busy talking with the regulars that go there. At the moment it seemed like it was crowded even though there wasn’t that many people. Maybe that was just my self-conscious speaking. 

“Water is fine.” I mumbled again, keeping my voice down in case somehow the table near us could hear me. Yup. It was my self-conscious. I couldn’t help but notice the way Ryker hand twitched slightly. Just like at the cafe after graduation. I took a few deep breaths before the waiter came back with notepad in hand. 

“What can I get you two to drink for today?” He smiled, more directed towards me, which made me feel just the slightest bit better. Maybe it was just the people that came to eat here that made this place feel uncomfortable. 

“Two waters please.” Ryker answered for the both of us. The waiter walked off, then came back a few minutes later with someone in his hand and the other with a glass of water. A woman came and gave me my glass, giggling and whispering something to the other waiter. I was so confused by this place, but I guess that didn’t matter. Ryker wouldn’t take me to a place unless he thought it was good. Everything else he picks out is good too. The only places I know are in the human part of the city and I doubt he could go there. 

I sighed, taking a sip of the cold water. Soon enough, the group sitting behind us sat up and leave. Words could not describe how grateful I was. They seemed rude and I haven’t even met them yet. Not that I wanted to, but still. 

“You want something to eat? It’s okay if you’re not hungry.” Ryker’s voice had a slight sad tone to it. Almost like he thought I wasn’t enjoying this. That was dumb. Of course I’m loving this. I just didn’t exactly know how to express that to him. I don’t know how dates are supposed to go, I don’t know what to do while on one, heck, I didn’t even know if I was doing this entire thing right! 

“Um, maybe something light? Like a salad? I-I don’t know.” I stuttered, nervously laughing a bit. Ryker placed down the menu for a second and laid his head on his arms, his eyes worriedly looking over me. The butterflies in my stomach only grew worse. Was I doing something wrong? 

“You didn’t have to say yes if you didn’t want to come y’know. I would’ve understood.” Ryker explained, his voice soft as usual. Oh. He thought I didn’t want to be here in general. 

“What? I did want to come. I just don’t really know how this whole… D-date thing works,” I tried explaining, “I love being with you. How could I say no? I just don’t know what I’m supposed to do or say.” I fidgeted with my hands, hoping that he would get it. 

“So you’ve never been on a date before?” Ryker slightly picked his head up. I shook my head as a reply. I have no idea how this was news to him, but it just was. 

“Well, I’m glad that I could be your first then.” Ryker laughed. The blush that I had worked so hard to make disappear came back. I was kind of happy that he was my first date too if I’m being honest. I don’t even think I would have been here if I hadn’t met him. 

The waiter came back to take our orders, he came back with two salads and told us to call him if we needed anything. I couldn’t help but see the little giggly smirk on his face. I didn’t exactly care though. Nothing could go wrong at this point. 

——————

Ryker and I had talked for a while. Mostly joking around with each other and talking about this new show that we had started together about this family who was rich but had all of their money taken away by their accountant or something like that. We both like it though. 

A song came on from the little jukebox in the corner of the room, but there was no one in here but us and one other person. Weird. We didn’t really pay attention all that much. We both had finished eating but neither of us wanted to go just yet. 

“I’m still surprised you wore a sweater.” I laughed, knowing that he doesn’t really wear anything other than hoodies and the occasional zip-up. 

“Ah well, I know you like them.” His face flushed a light shade of pink. I found it nice to know that he notices these things. I think it’s kind of sweet if I were being honest. 

It was quiet for a while, only the soft, deep voice of the music playing in the background was sitting between us. The anxiety rising up in my chest didn’t help at all whatsoever. What do we do now? Were we ready to go? It was only just about to turn nine. Maybe we should actually start heading back. If Ryker stays up any later I would feel bad. He’s already exhausted enough. 

As if on cue, he had yawned, covering up his mouth with on of his hands, blinking a couple times before drowsily groaning. I worriedly stood up, walking a bit closer, “We-we can go home if you’re tired. I don’t mind.” I smiled, earning one back. 

“If you’re ready sure.” 

I felt sorry. I wish I could be the one taking him back home. Not the other way around. That’s how it should be really. There has to be someway I could help. 

——————

We were home in about thirty minutes or so. You could faintly hear the sound of Dylan’s tv through the wall to the living room, Jasmine was passed out on the couch, and I’m guessing she put Isabelle and Angela to sleep. Ryker yawned, placing a blanket over Jasmine before sliding me off in front of the human-sized rooms. 

“I’ll be back in about five minutes. Just going to change.” He pointed a finger to the restroom down the hall. I nodded, guessing that he wanted me to change into something more comfortable too. Gladly. I quickly changed to a loose t-shirt and some sweatpants and waited outside for Ryker, who eventually did come out wearing almost the exact same thing as I was. 

His room was as cold as always, the lamp on that dimly lit up the place. His desk was an unusual mess of papers spewed all across the surface. Probably for college. He laid down on his bed, Pulling the sheets over him and almost immediately his eyes were already closing. I chuckled, walking closer to him from where he had left me. 

“Tired?” 

“Mhm,” He wore a sad expression, “Sorry tonight wasn’t what you expected.” 

“No it was great! I loved it!” I quietly cheered. Ryker smiled, “That’s good.” 

The silence stretched out between us again. Then I did something stupid. Again. Like I always did. I walked a closer to his face, and kissed him. Yup. I’m the one who went first this time. What’s more surprising was the fact that his face turned red when I had quickly stepped back. I had thought I stepped over a line, or maybe he wouldn’t have even felt it, but no. He did. And I couldn’t help but laugh at how red his face was. 

He was frozen in shock for a while before fixing his position and hugging me against his cheek. Now we were both laughing quietly together. 

“Love you.” He whispered, letting me back down. My heart started beating faster. I wasn’t expecting that- It would only be right to say it back. 

“Love you too.” 

I could at least do this for him. 

——————

Ahhh I love when the first date is awkward at first. Cringe isn’t real it cant hurt me hehehe-

I’ll definitely be making more little one shots like this with these two later on. I do want to continue the story until I do officially end it, but otherwise, this will be how it is for now. Thank you guys again!

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(if you don’t want to be tagged on these please let me know TwT)