#jokes aside thank you for your nice message anon :)

[dailyfigures]

You should talk even more. Out of spite. But also you do seem fun to talk to

thank you for taking a pro-yapping stance anon. me and my uncontrollable urge to never shut up both appreciate it very much <3

[aphroditesmoon]

Could you write Xavier X FemReader in which the reader is Wednesday’s family member (sister, cousin, etc) and her and Xavier we starting to get close then all of a sudden her starts acting cold/rude so she thinks she did something wrong and he hates her when in reality Xavier has started being mean is because he’s been in love with her since he saw her but she’s been getting really close with Tyler so she confronts him and he does an angry love confession????

it's you I think of

xavier thorpe x reader

summary: xavier tries to win the heart of the other addams sister, but she just doesn't seem to get the message.

warnings: bit angst but mostly fluff

A/N: Thanks for requesting anon! hope you like this!

°°°

"So, is your name based on weekdays too or?" The long haired boy started as he stands beside you, observing your position as you shoot your arrow and misses again.

You sigh and he steps closer with your back to his chest as he guides your hand with the arrow. "Here, like this."

You feel your heart speeds up but says nothing as you watch him take the lead and hits the arrow straight to the aim.

He slowly steps aside and smiles at you. You give a small smile and gives him your name.

He fakes gasp, "Oh she speaks?" When you roll your eyes and drop your smile he immediately makes it clear he was just joking.

"I know, I'm not easily offended, there's been worse things said to me." You state, picking up another arrow to practice.

"So, do I have to assume you are as terrifying as your sister?" He asks with a teasing grin.

"Oh no, I'm afraid she has already claimed the title of homicidal psychopath in our family, truly the pride and joy of the Addams name. As for me, You'll learn soon enough." You explain, this time your arrow hits straight to the aim, You lower your bow in pride.

"So you mean to say we might end up close enough for me to learn about you myself?"

he had too many questions.

You shook your head and thank him for his lessons before walking away to your dorm room.

°°°

Despite being roommates with Yoko, she has not made a single effort to befriend you, as glad as you are for the peace, you could tell it's because of the growing closeness between you and Xavier, the girls were ignoring you in solidarity to Bianca.

You were thankful for that.

It wasn't that you asked Xavier to befriend you, but he was persistent in knowing you, and he seems to respect your boundaries enough to not push you or cross the line, so you accepted his friendship, it was nice to share the quietness with someone else sometimes.

He has even let you sit in the corner of his shed to watch him paint and sketch.

That was probably your favourite activity these days, the comfortable silence and watching him fully concentrate on his artworks.

Today was one of the days you'd get to watch him work, he had sat beside someone else during their classes together that afternoon, but you assumed their routine still remained.

Walking towards the shed, you notice chains around the handles of the door. It was definitely locked as you try to pull it off.

This was confusing, if he wasn't coming today then why wouldn't he tell you?

Bumping into Bianca as you're walking back to your dorm, you gave it a chance and asked her if she knew where Xavier was.

Her scoff and smile was mocking. "Aw, did he finally decide drop your deadweight of an ass?"

You raise your eyebrows at her challenged.

"That's weird, last time I checked, it was you that got dumped." Indulging in her baffled expression, You walk past her to continue looking for your friend.

He wasn't in the library or any of the classes. The last place there was to check was his room, a place you don't think you're allowed to.

°°°

The next day was busy as everyone prepared for the rave'n dance. You weren't much of a partier, but you had hoped to ask a certain someone, so you made an effort to search for a decent enough dress.

You snatched the first dress that caught your attention, not liking the whole experience you had force yourself to go through. It was emerald coloured dress, giving in to the assigned flora and fauna theme this year.

Stepping into the local coffee shop, you were met with Tyler as he prepared you your usual.

"You look burnt out, went hiking or something?" He questions.

You chuckled. "Dress shopping." He raises his eyebrows and grin.

"Oh you're going to Rave'n then? Didn't seem like the type that would, got a date?"

Your smile slowly drops as you shook your head.

He nods understanding. "Well, I mean, if you're looking for one, I'm always free this Saturday." He winks and you bite your cheeks.

His attention snaps to the door as the bell rings.

and a customer enter. You turn around and widen your eyes in suprise to see Xavier.

His too as he takes your appearance in.

He walks closer, turning to look at Tyler, then back at you.

Tyler uncomfortably backs away from leaning at the counter to you and clears his throat.

"Uh, want a coffee?" He asks Xavier slowly.

He nods carefully, before taking a seat next to you, watching Tyler move to the espresso machine.

"Didn't know you two are friends." He starts.

You let out an annoyed laugh and glares at him.

"Really?" He blinks, not understanding what you mean.

"You don't answer my texts, didn't tell me you weren't going to be at the shed, and now you're talking to me like you haven't been ignoring me?" You snapped.

"Wha- I've been busy, I forgot-"

"You've been busy, you forgot, which one is it?" You Interrogate.

"Both! Look, I'm sorry alright, I should've let you know, I forgot." He explains as Tyler brings you both your coffee.

Xavier's eyes wanders to the paperbag in your hand. "Is that a dress? You're going to the rave'n?" He asks suspiciously.

"Why shouldn't I?" You ask defensively.

"I didn't say you shouldn't, I just- I mean, do you have a date?"

You instinctively nodded. "I'm... going with Tyler! Right, Tyler?" You immediately turn to him, silently begging him to agree.

Tyler, playing along, nods and confirms.

Xavier's expression changed, and the guilt in his eyes turns blank as he processes what you said.

"Oh." Disappointment laced his voice for some reason. He snatch his coffee and stand to leave. "I'll uh, see you later then." He says briefly before leaving.

you feel the pit of your stomach churn as you thank Tyler.

°°°

The Rave'n dance was unspeakably boring. You'd rather be in your room and read with Chopin playing in the background.

Instead you're stuck here awkwardly eating your cake with Tyler by your side.

You spot Xavier by Bianca's side as they walk in together, his eyes meet yours and the betrayal you feel was deep. He had gone back to her.

You excuse yourself to the bathroom, feeling Xavier's gaze burning through your back as you walk away.

You pull back tears and touched up your lipstick after repeating the breathing exercise Kinbott has taught you.

Feeling less upset and more out together aftet successfully preventing a breakdown, you walk out towards your date.

Only to find him on the dancefloor with your sister, Wednesday.

Of course, he had only asked you to get close to her. No one ever wanted you for you.

You were glad you didn't really like him and disappointedlu went to grab a drink. You scan the room and notice Bianca dancing with Yoko, It was then that you notice Xavier wasn't anywhere to be seen. You frown and walked out while no one notice. The idea of knocking on his door was halted as you remember you weren't allowed there, If you were caught, it wasn't the punishment you were scared of but rather the embarrassment.

There was only one option left.

°°°

Climbing through windows and walls, you pull out a small screwdriver, unlocking the window next to his bedside, before pushing it open and jumping in.

As your feet lands on his bed, you hear him yelp and swear loudly. There he was in all his glory, in front of the bathroom door.

"[name]?!, What the fuck? Did you seriously just climbed through my window-"

"You weren't at the shed today, and you stopped sitting next to me in class. In fact if I'm remembering it right, you didn't even want me in the shed with you last week too." He turns quiet, eyes not meeting yours.

"You're avoiding me, why?" You ask, making him scoff and turn away from you as he walks towards Rowan's old bed.

You walk to him, pulling him by his hands to look at you.

"Did I do something? Have I offend you?" You go straight to the point.

He frowns. "Offend me? God are you clueless or something."

Saying that you were confused would be an understatement.

"Let's say that I am, spell it out for me then."

He shook his head and pushed your hand away. "I'm not- I'm not offended, okay? Just leave, okay? Go back to your date, and not by the windo-"

"I'm not leaving until you tell me what's wrong." You insist and he sighs.

you two stood like that for a few seconds, refusing to grant eachother's request.

You broke the silence first, unable to take it anymore.

"Xavier, you are my first friend ever, besides my old pet tarantula spider that was accidental killed in our washing machine." He makes a face of disgust.

"I- What I mean is, If I had done anything to hurt you, it was probably accidental, I am not the best when it comes to making friends, let alone, keeping then." You notice his body relaxing as his gaze softens.

"I would understand if you no longer want to associate with me, but I would be very grateful if you could tell me why." You pleaded, heart breaking.

You didn't think you could ever feel this upset.

People had always assumed you were as heartless as your sister, given your awkward and introverted personality.

But the truth was you used your antisocial personality as a wall againts human interaction because you were sensitive. Your heart was the opposite of Wednesday's.

Xavier sighs and closes his eyes briefly before looking at you firmly.

"You didn't offend me, well- not really, it's just-"

"Its- I avoided you, because I thought you didn't feel the same way I did." His confession did not clear anything up for you.

You scrunch your face confused.

"Feel? Feel what?"

His lips became a thin line as he rolls his eyes.

"[name], I like you"

"I like you too, I just told you that-

"No, I-" He sighs loudly again.

"I like you, more than a friend, should. And I thought I've been dropping multiple hints since we met but it seems you've gotten none of them, I thought you just weren't interested in me like that, or else you would've seen them, wouldn't you?"

Your eyes widen as understanding fills you.

The brief silence scared him as he tells you to forget about it and leave.

"Wha- No, no Xavier, I do like you." You immediately tells him before you could stop yourself.

He freezes and his yes scan you for any lies or deceit.

"Right, and you're definitely not saying this because I'm your only friend and you feel bad."

You shook your head but he still looks unconvinced.

"You went out with Tyler. Fucking Tyler. How does anything you do backs up what you're saying?" Tyler's name sounds like a curse coming from his tongue, And you have to admit, it makes you like him more.

"It does make sense what you're saying, but if Im only saying this because I'm lonely, would I do this?" You challenge him.

"Do what?" He asks, eyebrows furrowed.

You answer him by pulling him down by his vest and meeting your lips with his.

Automatically he reciprocates it and his arms move to wrap around your waist.

You smile againts his mouth and you feel him copy it.

Breaking the kiss to catch a breath, he grins at you, all his sulking seemingly gone.

"So just to be clear, you're not doing this because you feel bad or anything right? I don't know, maybe you should convince me again, just to be sure."

Your face breaks into a smile as you grant his wish.

[fa-by]

Did you miss me?

Hey my babies 👋🏼🤗. How are you? Wow, has it really been that long? It's been 1 year and 2 months apparently and it doesn't seem so 😅. I feel like a part of me should apologize for the absence, so I'm sorry 🙏🏼 but, to be completely honest, the other part of me doesn't want to justify because this is just an app we use to distract ourselves from the reality of daily life 🤭🤣. So, for those who have been wondering, my recap is that I'm 31 now, I've been unhealthy/sick for several things, last year I grieved for my baby girl dog who passed away after 12 years (and who took a piece of my soul with her), I changed my job and I’m being mobbed by my boss every day 😅. The several most important good news? I adopted a beautiful puppy girl in September of this year 😍🤩 and my girlfriend whom you also know well came to me here in Italy twice; once for three months last year, and once for our 2-year anniversary this year by staying for almost a month ❤🥰😍🤩. Oh and, of course, I've started writing again as of today. This obviously has to be put among the good news 🤣. I won't hide from you that I've missed writing, so here I am, although I can't promise that I'll be very active in answering the asks as before due to my various commitments, but I'll try to be here more often 😉.

P.S. I'll only post the 6 most recent asks I've received because I didn't want to create a way too long post, but thanks to everyone for the recent and past messages (even last year's ones) ❤🙏🏼.

You broke my heart with that emoji 🥺. I'm here, dear @sweet-dreamcs​ ❤.

I'm here, my dear Anon 😄. I'm all ears 👂🏼 and I've missed all of you too.

Hello to you too, dear Anon 👋🏼😄, I answered about my health in the recap at the beginning of the post, thanks for your concern 🤗. I'm fine now, how are you? I hope well 😊.

I do still ship Camren, how could I not? 🤣 I'll ship them forever 😜. And yeah, I saw Laur's new “relationship”, if you want to call it that. I, on the other hand, like to call it for what it is: PR. And that I think explains my thoughts about it 😉.

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 well thank you, my dear Anon😄. I like being right 😉. No, I'm just kidding no, I'm not 🤣. Joking aside now, I've already told you guys in the past that everything I post comes from the research I do and that therefore I post only the truth with proofs.

Anyway, yeah I'm not interested in the version with Señorito 😑, I'm just waiting for Mila's undistorted one now. Oh and, my dear? I'm ready for the thousand questions 🤣.

I'm here, dear Anon 😄. As you said yourself, they're both PRs, so don't worry. And I mean it for real. I don't know how I could reassure you guys any better than that since you already know how it works. It's not the first time we've endured it and it certainly won't be the last. Be strong as always, my dear 💪🏼. Don't talk about them around on social media because that's what they want, and hang on. That's my advice, my dear.

Hey to you, dear Anon 👋🏼😄, and I'm okay now. Thanks for asking and I hope you're okay too 😊. Well, how can I answer your question correctly? 🤔🤔

The answer is in your question itself, my dear 🤣. What happened at Coachella and that we saw all over the internet is shit 💩. Yet another display of poor acting. It's as simple as this 🤣. No but, for real. They're simply testing the waters and creating havoc, aka publicity, before Mila's debut with the new label. That's it 🤷🏻‍♀️. Nothing new. Ignore them as I do.

‍🤸🏻‍♀‍🤸🏻‍♀‍🤸🏻‍♀‍🤸🏻‍♀‍🤸🏻‍♀‍🤸🏻‍♀‍🤸🏻‍♀‍🤸🏻‍♀‍🤸🏻‍♀‍🤸🏻‍♀‍🤸🏻‍♀‍🤸🏻‍♀‍

I thank everyone for your concern for me and for continuing to write to me and wanting me back 🥰. I also thank you for the asks and I hope I've been helpful this time too 🙃. I'm always available for those who have questions, so feel free to ask 😄. Aaaand let's bring back my tradition, shall we? 👅.

Remember to be nice. Always. Both with others and with yourselves. Be a good example. Be patient. Be safe and take care of yourselves. Don't let our ship sink. Keep shipping them, but please respectfully 🙏🏼. Sending you virtual love and hugs 🤗🤗🤗. I love you, babies. Always with love, F❤️.

[alyszaen]

Hi, it's sheep anon! I'll make this message short to not take up too much of your space. I've been reading though some of your fics and I think they're really neat. I have 2 questions from the ask game: 8 and 21 and a question of my own. What's a memory of yours that makes you feel better whenever you feel down? I hope you are having a nice whatever time of day and remember to stay hydrated. <3

-🐑

@longingpurity ur anon got lost I think

lmao jokes aside! Thank you for the feedback! I always appreciate it! Also feel free to type more - I love hearing from you haha

okay okay to the game

tag someone (or multiple people) who make you feel good.  Now before anyone feels bad about this: I love all my moots very dearly. You guys mean a lot to me. The past few days, though, the following people have made me feel extra understood and happy @chiskz aka @almondespresso, @l3visbby aka @chachachannah, @pettypuppy-jonghyun, @mxnsxngie and @strayingawayy You guys have been so understanding of me being low energy the past few days and yet did everything you could to check in on me, tell me about your days or just cheer me up. Thank you <3

if you could tell your past self one thing, what would it be? I would tell her this: "Heya aly. i know you are struggling right now. i know you don't believe you can do it. Growing up is difficult, you were right about that. But it gets better. You get better. There will be some difficult days and you will have to hang in there. You will lose progress sometimes. But you will come back from it. Every time you get back up you come back stronger. I know you think this is silly and me just saying stuff right now, but you will be okay. You will be loved. You will find happiness. And it is not your fault." sorry LMAO this got real deep n dark lol

and for your question, sheep anon: What's a memory of yours that makes you feel better whenever you feel down? Whenever I'm down I genuinely cannot see my happy memories easily. It's like they're on the other side of a wall of fog. But what does make me feel better and create happy memories is my friends. Just today a friend of mine told me this: "u know like golden leaves not too cold just 1 jacket and not too windy but a bit like autumn chilly, AND UR THE FREIEND UR VIBE IS THOSE GOLDEN LEAVES KIND OF VIBE, like ur the september afternoon vibe friendo" And for him this was just random and sweet. I tell him stuff like this all the time haha. but for me i know the fact that he randomly had this thought about me even though I haven't really been around the last few weeks is going to keep me going. It reminds me that some of my friendships are NOT onesided.

Thank you so much for popping by, sheep anon, and for your asks! I hope you have a great [insert time of day] too!

[goldie90]

We really do need a better block system. I have this same problem all the time.

It's incredibly frustrating that what little good the filter does immediately falls apart the second someone you follow reblogs "filtered" content...

Hey.😀

Yeah, it´s like tumblr is slamming these posts in your face like "Look, here´s something you don´t want to see!" 🙄 It´s really annoying. The only thing blocking really does is preventing direct contact between two people (no asks, dm´s or interactions with each others posts), though even if you block someone, they can still send you anon asks, unless you block them on anon as well.

Aside from that it´s pretty useless. If someone you blocked or who has you blocked (or even both) sends an ask to someone you follow you´ll see them showing up on your dash and like I just discovered kinda accidentally you can even tag them which I´m pretty sure shouldn´t be possible, yet it is. I don´t know how it is on other sites and if maybe tumblr is already doing everything they can and there´s just no way to completely avoid seeing users you don´t want to see, but the way it is the block system just seems like a joke to me.

Thanks for your message and have a nice weekend.🙂

[icallhimjoey]

I'm dreading the end of "A Lot Like Love" as much as I'm looking forward to it! Eternally grateful to you, writing this so brilliantly, and also for the anon for asking for more of it. I can't wait for part five, as well as upcoming fic ideas you're gonna tackle.

Get ready to mourn this story with me, this is officially its last part. You've all been way too kind to me throughout all of it - for Like A Poem, and for A Lot Like Love. I really appreciate all your comments, reblogs and likes. Thank you. Special thanks to @thatonefan-girl for finding beautiful pics for me to use! Wordcount: 4.7K

---

A Lot Like Love

part one - part two - part three - part four - part five

Joe hadn’t had time to come into the store again that day. And the day after he had to work until late, but he promised he’d come see you. He texted you. Texted. With words. No pictures, no emojis. It was new and a little unsettling. 

“Did you survive the day?” 

You hated it. Even though there’d been so many times you wished you and Joe would just text each other like normal people would, with questions normal people would ask each other, this first wordy message had made your skin crawl. Anne had peeked over your shoulder and had retched at it, which you thought was a bit much. 

“We’ll talk about it later” you had texted back. You dabbled a little with the idea of putting a full stop at the end of it but had decided against it last minute. After staring at the two messages that followed each other, you decided to also send “It was okay.” Because it had been okay, and it felt nice to add that instead of completely dismissing him. However, you did decide to put a full stop at the end of it then. 

You hadn’t texted each other since. 

It had been a long two days, and you had felt weird all throughout it. You had promised yourself you wouldn’t look online, just because you didn’t actively want to make yourself feel worse. But you didn’t need to seek it out; it found you because people wouldn’t stop sending you photos and videos and their opinions. You knew that it would’ve been different had it been a picture of you and Joe walking in the street holding hands. Or even if it had been a sneaky pic of the two of you on the train, like you thought Joe initially meant when he broke the news to you. But the image of you on his lap like a cheap rodeo cowgirl, with his hands on the meat of your body – you were glad your grandfather wasn’t around to have witnessed it, even though you knew he would’ve been the best comfort with the exact right words for you.

So, an evening like this one was exactly what you needed. Friends. Drinks. Fantastic business ideas. And giggles. Many, many giggles. Most of them were at the expense of Joe, and whilst you hadn’t participated in making the jokes, most of them had made you laugh.

You had pushed aside a display table to make for extra room in the center of the store so you, Anne and your best friend had enough room. Splayed out on the floor, brown wrapping paper rolls and scraps surrounded you, along with piles of books you had pulled from your shelves. Three pairs of hands were busy, cutting paper, ripping tape, and wrapping up books. 

And you were drunk. But only slightly. Because your friend said she knew how to make great margaritas and she had been right.

It was quite the sight for Joe to see when he walked past the window. It was late and already dark out, and he had imagined the store to be dark too, but he’d been surprised when he’d seen the illumination from down the street. Joe stopped to look at the three of you through the window. He saw you take a huge gulp from your cocktail, underestimating either the size of your mouth or how much was left in the glass, tipping half of it down your face. It made all of you laugh. 

Then Anne saw him and pointed at him with eyes of thunder and lightning. It caught your attention and then you saw him too. “Anne, stop. None of today is his fault.” And you waved Joe over to come in. But Anne was drunk too. “We ought to burn you at the stake!” were the first words Joe heard when he walked in. 

“Yea, okay. Sure… should we go now? Or later?” Joe nodded and pointed a finger behind him, eyebrows raised up high at Anne. Anne settled for later. 

“How was work?” you tried to sound so casual, like it was a question you asked Joe all the time and it made your best friend burst out laughing. 

“Work was fine.” Joe was sweet enough to answer you, but he didn’t manage to hide his own smile. “But I should really be asking you.” He took off his coat and sat down in an armchair. His armchair.

“Anne’s a good guard dog,” You said and it sufficed as enough of an answer. Joe understood. This also didn’t seem the right time to press it further. “I’ve survived the days.” You didn’t mean for it to sound snarky, but it came out a little cutting. Joe didn’t have time to even show in his face that he properly heard you.

“Since you’re here,” your best friend cut in. “We’re going to need you to sign this.” And she passed Joe a piece of paper that read MYSTERY BOOKS PICKED BY JOSEPH QUINN. “For authenticity.”

In the top left corner she had drawn a little stick-figure with long curly hair, holding a guitar. In another corner Joe found a normal stick-figure. 

“That’s obviously Eddie Munson, and that’s you looking normal. I don’t know what other things you’ve done.” 

Joe shot you a confused look.  

“Not my idea. Talk to them.” You poured yourself another margarita from the blender that you found behind you, far enough from all of your limbs so none of you would kick it over, but close enough to reach when you needed it. Like now. 

“If your stupid face is going to be bringing in more people, we’re going to want to tempt them to spend actual fucking money in here.” Your best friend said with biting sass. You were worried how Joe was going to take her tone. Joe had learned with time how to move around Anne, but you were unsure if Joe was going to take this type of shit from your best friend as well. Joe was unaware that he’d jumped headfirst into a shark-pit, and you kind of hoped he was a fast swimmer. 

“You’re fucking using me?” he matched her perfectly, and you tried to hide your smile from them. Joe swam fine.

“Using, abusing, call it what you like. Sign it.” She threatened and held out a sharpie to Joe who reluctantly took it from her. 

“You’re okay with this?” Joe shot worried eyes at you. Stupidly so – you were drunk. You’d agree to do much dumber stuff if your best friend suggested it right now. 

“I’ve grown attached to the stick-figures.” you shrugged at Joe, and he looked at the sign a second longer before using his teeth to open the sharpie and signing it with his autograph. 

Anne turned to you. “Stake burning postponed, indefinitely.” It warmed your heart. 

Joe turned his head at an angle to see what books you were wrapping up. They were all books you knew he’d bought from the store, or had read there, and he nodded approvingly. “How else can I be of service? Should I sign some of the wrapped books, too?” Joe was half joking, a little sarcastic, but you’d all had too many margaritas to catch it. 

“Oh my God,” your best friend rolled her eyes. “Mr Important over here thinks people want signed wrapping paper, like he’s the fucking author of all these books.” She made eye contact with you, but then a second later, she snapped her head back at him. “Actually, that’s brilliant. Limber up that wrist, we’ve already wrapped a tonne.”

Not quite a tonne. But enough for you to think it was time to stop wrapping. Your friend started handing books to Joe, and you thought it was the perfect time to go for a quick toilet break. 

“Draw shit on them too, do love hearts on a couple.” You heard your friend order as you made your way to the breakroom.

Did you feel nervous leaving Joe alone with your friend and Anne? Not if they’d been sober. With alcohol in the mix, this situation felt trickier to manage, it felt very unpredictable. But you weren’t going to squat down in a corner or bring them all into the bathroom with you just so you could stay in the room with them. You weren’t that drunk.

Just as you were about to make your way back, you caught them talking. And it was a bit like being butt-dialed. You had to sneak a listen for your ears to catch something that wasn’t meant for them. So, you paused by the door and eavesdropped. 

“Listen I’m not going to beat around the bush, my guy,” your friend only slightly slurred her words. “You don’t understand, I would die for her.” You heard Joe huff a laugh, which only egged your friend on. “I could give less of a shit of who you are, you could be a fucking prince and you still wouldn’t be good enough. I don’t care! If someone tried to shoot a gun at her, I would fling myself in front to catch that bullet if it means she gets to live.” Your friend was overly dramatic, and you tried to will her to calm down telepathically. It didn’t work.

“Not Anne. Anne would kill for her.” 

“I don’t doubt it.” Joe commented. You could only image the look Anne would be giving him right now.

Eavesdropping was fun, you thought. 

“But I need to know, and she won’t tell me so you’re going to have to, did you fuck her on the stairs or-” You slammed the door open with flat hands that slapped against the wood to announce your entrance back into the room. Maybe eavesdropping was not so fun, after all. 

That evening you cleared a full display and piled all the wrapped books onto it with the autographed sign proudly stood up in the middle of it. 

“Feel a bit li-like Christmas,” you said through a hiccup, pointing at the stick-figure that was meant to be Eddie. “Santa.” You said and laughed loudly at your own joke, convinced that alcohol really did make you funnier.

Anne and your best friend had just left, the margarita blender was empty, and your heart felt full. There was a little tidying to do still before bed, and you stumbled around to reach for the scraps of discarded wrapping paper and little balls of tape that stuck to the floor. Then you stood up whilst underneath a table, smashing your skull full forced into the hardwood underside of it. 

“Ow,” was all you managed, a reaction far too small for the loud bang Joe’d heard.

“Jesus Chr- okay. Let’s go.” Joe grabbed you by your wrist, carefully moving you from underneath the table before pulling you in and embracing your head, kissing the spot of impact.

“I’m okay!” you were quick to dismiss it. “You won’t be when the alcohol’s out of your system, babe.” 

“Babe,” you repeated. Joe had never used a pet name on you before. “Let’s go upstairs.” Joe guided you into the breakroom. 

“Let’s go upstairs, babe,” you giggled, mocking Joe, but totally accepting his guidance of you. Joe had to use two arms fully extended to push you up the stairs, because sometimes one of your legs wouldn’t be able to travel up the next step by itself and it would just dangle mid-air as you called Joe babe again, just because it was funny to push his buttons. 

“Stop it, before I’ll actually have a go at it on these stairs with you,” Joe bit back, hinting at words from your friend he was sure she hadn’t been allowed to reveal to him, and he softly chuckled to himself.

“Don’t.” you warned. “I’ll plummet myself off them if you mention that again.” The empty threat made him laugh louder.

Fighting you free of your clothes was a difficult task. You were a mess of limbs and huffs of laughter. All of it worked against Joe, and it felt a little like he was trying to rid a squirmy toddler of an outfit with tricky buttons and zippers but harder. Trying to get you to drink a tall glass of water wasn’t so hard. You gulped it down without a fight but did have to stop twice because you had to laugh at something you didn’t explain to Joe. 

In bed, Joe asked you how drunk you really were. “Stone cold sober, sailor!” you’d used an accent Joe hadn’t heard from you before and you’d saluted him with your eyes closed. 

Too drunk, Joe concluded.

“We’ll talk in the morning.” Joe smiled, said good night, and gave you a kiss to the forehead that made you hum before you allowed sleep to take you. 

Monday morning came too fast. 

The awful taste in your mouth, almost mouldy feeling inside your head, hot legs under covers too thick – it was all wrong. Nausea laid in wait, primed to activate on movement. You tried to sit up but were quickly fought back against the mattress by gravity, a low groan escaping your throat. You felt Joe move beside you. The mattress dipped in slightly and an arm found its way across your stomach. 

“How bad is it?” Joe’s voice was deep and raspy, still coated with sleep. 

“Don’t sit up. It's dangerous up there.” You warned Joe through squinty eyes, like he’d been drinking the night before too. You tried to focus your eyes on your outstretched hands, but double vision turned them into two sets. They lifted, floated, crossed over and blurred as you held them still. You needed more sleep.

“Mmmh,” Joe buried his face deeper into the pillow. “We’ll do today horizontally.”

Joe didn’t have anywhere to be until later in the afternoon. And you’d already decided the night before that you’d open shop whenever you felt like you could actually function to do so. You managed to get a little more sleep before the sun had lit up your bedroom enough for it to not be ignored anymore. 

“Last night was fun,” you recounted, breaking a silence that hadn’t asked to be broken.

“Yea? How’s your head?” Joe knew you had to be in pain, both from the alcohol consumption leaving you dehydrated and from the way you bashed it into a table the night before.

“I’ve not had any complaints.” You joked, making yourself laugh more than Joe. 

“Look at you! So quick on your feet, and that at,” Joe checked the time. “Ten past eight in the morning.” Joe sarcastically commented, cooing you patronizingly. 

“Thanks, babe.” You remembered everything from the night before, and Joe huffed a laugh through his nostrils. 

A silence lingered where Joe found your hand in the sheets, propped your arm up onto its elbow next to his, and he let his fingers play. Delicate slow touching, soft tickles that barely grazed your skin. You felt a sharp pang in your chest as if shot by cupid himself, that little shit. It hurt, but it leaked out hot fluid that filled your whole chest. It resembled hot chocolate; thick, warm, sugary sweet, almost silky. And then it translated itself to your brain, and you were hit with a realization that terrified you.

“You okay?” Joe lifted his head from the pillow a little to look at you, sensing your shift in emotion.

“Just hung over, I guess.” You lied and you let Joe continue to tickle your palm with the tips of his fingers. It was almost too intimate for you to bear. 

“I’m sorry about last night,” you suddenly said, surprising Joe. You were mostly apologizing for your friends, but you’d lie if you said you hadn’t egged them on when Joe hadn’t been looking.

“No need to apologize. I should be the one saying sorry to you.” Joe meant for what people seeing a picture of the two of you kissing had brought onto you.

“It’s not your fault.” You meant the picture being taken in the first place. 

“But I’m still sorry.” Joe meant for what the picture had changed for you. 

And that was enough. You’d find a new routine, you were sure. So what if Joe wouldn’t be in your store all the time anymore? He could be there after hours as much as he wanted- as much as you wanted now. Joe didn’t have to sit in the armchair for three hours, rereading the same paragraph eight times because his real focus was on where your eyes were boring into him as you took every moment you could to stare at him from your spot behind the counter. Now he could just be in your bed with you and apologize for things he had no control over. You convinced yourself it would be just as fun. 

“About what I said the other day…” Joe started, and something in his voice revealed a certain level of importance. You had an inkling about what he was referencing, but didn’t want to bring it up yourself, so you stayed silent. You heard Joe’s head move against the pillow as he turned to look at you again, and you realized he was waiting for you to speak.

“It’s okay, we decided you didn’t mean it.” You pretended it was something Joe was also going to apologize to you for, and you hoped he’d drop it. 

But Joe instead intertwined your fingers with his and held your hand, now turning onto his side to face you fully. You stayed put flat on your back and just turned your head to find his eyes. It was better because you still felt nauseous, but it was also better because it felt safer. Not as intimate, much less scary. 

“What if I did mean them?” he squeezed your hand tightly, as if you might take your chance to jump from the bed to get away from him. 

“Because it feels a lot like love,” his voice was so close to a whisper, it felt like his words were barely even there. 

Your breath hitched in your throat, as if it missed a step down the stairs, and you had to balance yourself and find your breath like lost feet below you. The words felt like another person in the room. A third wheel at the end of the bed that was staring at you in hopes of accepting them so they could stay there. You looked Joe in the eye, and all the emotions you found in there punched you right in the gut. 

“Those are scary words, Joe.” You confessed carefully. 

“I know. But don’t run from them.” Joe said and you could feel his hands squeeze yours a few times, tight fingers pulsing around your palm. 

Joe was onto you, and the hand that wasn’t holding yours found your face and cupped around your cheek. You closed your eyes to his touch. 

“I’m going to say more scary words. Embrace yourself.” Joe said with a slight smile, and it instantly released more nervous, frantic butterflies in the pit of your stomach.

“The first time I loved you was when you silently placed a cup of coffee next to me. I had just started wondering if I was overstaying my welcome, and then you just gave me a hot drink."

You silently blinked at Joe.  

"The second time I loved you was when I was talking about you with your grandfather, and we looked at you and your mother hard a work for a little while.” As you listened to Joe, the hot chocolate inside your chest was bubbling, threatening to tip over into the rest of your body and seep out of it, into the bed. 

Joe wasn’t done yet, though.

“The third time I loved you was when you called me Mr Quinn and gave me your phone number. I stuck that piece of paper in my wallet, and I’ve still got it in there. And the fourth time I loved you was when we had the photoshoot here and we were out front and I could see you in the breakroom, working behind your laptop and singing along to my playlist, just in your own world, undisturbed by whatever we had going on.” Joe reminisced, looking up at the ceiling as he vividly remembered the sight of you. 

“After that… all the times I’ve loved you sort of pile together into a big, sticky ball that bounces around my body when I look at you.” Joe found your eyes. He was impossibly cute, and your face told him that you thought so. But there was more to find in your eyes. Joe said to not run from his words, so you very actively tried not to, but it proved almost too difficult.

“Joe, I can’t,” you started, flipping the script, and scaring Joe with what you were saying. “I can’t be an addition to…” you continued, searching for the right words. “… to a system. Or an addition to an entity.” You said, and Joe understood. “I’ve barely even met him, really. I can’t suddenly be Joseph Quinn’s girlfriend.” and like you’d grown accustomed to by now, whenever you spoke of the Joe who was in the public eye, you added the hand gesture that went along with it, but this time small and quick. 

“You won’t be. You’ll be mine.” Joe pulled your hand up to his mouth and kissed it.

It sounded so simple. You knew in theory it wouldn’t be, but it was tempting to play with the idea of simplicity for the two of you. Like it had been so simple, for so long. Too long. 

You sat with Joe’s words for a minute, then suddenly turned over so you were now also on your side, facing Joe. You looked down at your clutching hands in between the two of you and swallowed thickly. 

“The first time I loved you was when you read Blindness in one day and came to tell me about it, only two days after we first met.” Joe’s lips pursed into a small smile which encouraged you to keep going. You couldn’t look him in the eye for this, and you kept your gaze on your hands. 

“The second time I loved you was when you bought that book without checking to see what it was because you had missed the store-”

“I’d missed you.” Joe confessed sweetly, eyes twinkling like those of a naughty schoolboy. 

“I fucking knew it.” You scrunched your face at Joe’s, and you both giggled.  

“The third time I loved you was during that shoot, when you had to pose on a ladder, and you grabbed the book my grandfather used to read to me.” Joe remembered how he’d found your face through the window, and you’d looked at each other for a second. 

You suddenly frowned and sunk further into your thoughts. “But what if it doesn’t work?” you asked Joe, and your worry-filled eyes locked with his. “What if I’m not equipped for this?” and Joe caught your lip trembling before you quickly bit into it to hide it from him. 

Joe leant back a bit, moving away to take in more of you, to read you fully. You looked frail. Breakable. He didn’t want to break you because he had seen what that was like. Joe thought back to that horrific day where you had processed your grandfather’s passing in the bookstore, the event for different reasons almost as traumatic for him as it had been for you. 

“Sweetheart,” Joe scooted back closer to you, moving until your foreheads were pressed together and your hands, still holding each other, were curled up tightly in between your chests. There was nowhere for you to look but directly into Joe’s big, brown eyes. 

“It’s been working. You’ve no idea how well equipped you are, and you’ll see. You’ll grow to see it, I promise.”

You weren’t sure how Joe was so convincing. But he was. 

“Tell me you love me again,” you asked, and Joe’s kiss came in hot an heavy. This time there was no lingering of his lips in front of your face, no waiting for you to close any gaps. Joe found your lips with his without hesitation and you loved him for it. 

“I love you,” Joe said into your mouth and followed it with little kisses that travelled from your mouth all over your face until they circled back again. 

“I love you, I love you, I love you.”

It was past noon when you opened the store. You were both there, coffees in hand, stood behind the counter. The morning of love left you with relaxed bodies, your hangover slowly curing and no worries about anything, for whatever you could think of. No worries for the rest of the day, no worries for other photos that were bound to be taken of the two of you together and no worries for the future. It felt all too blissful, and you let yourself soak in it. 

You smiled at the display you put together the night before, the autographed sign looked so much more professional in your memory of creating it. Now it was mainly its sentimental value that kept you from replacing it for something without badly drawn stick-figures and obvious dried and wrinkled spots from where you’d spilled margarita on it. 

Joe asked if you remembered pointing at the sign and calling one of the stick-figures Santa last night when the door opened.

“Oh my God,” a girl in her late teens early twenties had stepped in and from her wide eyes you gathered she hadn’t expected to actually see Joe there, in the flesh. 

Joe kissed you on the back of the head quickly, as much out of sight as he could make his public display of affection before stepping around the counter towards her.  

“Hi, welcome, can I help you find a book you’re looking for?” 

And you got to stand back and watch him interact with her. Joe was quick to match her energy, was the one to initiate a hug and then hugged her close so she could really feel him- smell him. He posed for a selfie and then sold her a book from your display. His display. “You won’t know what you’re getting, but you do know that I drew that for you.” He said, scrunching his face and pouting as he pointed at a little love heart on the wrapping paper that covered the novel. She was all smiles, and so were you. 

Then she looked at you behind the counter and made her way over to pass you the mystery book Joe had picked out for her, and you rung her up. 

“Did you manage to find everything you were looking for?” you asked, and you saw Joe grin at you from behind her. 

You had an inkling then that this was going to work out just fine. When the young woman walked out the store after giving Joe a short wave, Joe turned to you with outstretched arms. 

“Hey? That wasn’t so bad!” he celebrated, and you laughed as you shook your head. “You’re unbelievable.” 

“Will you be okay to do the rest of them yourself?” Joe asked, stepping behind the counter and pulling you into him by your waist. “Are you asking me if I’m going to be able to run my store?” you feigned offense, making Joe grin. “Good, because I’ve got to run.” He pressed a quick peck to your lips before picking up his coat from where he’d left it on the armchair the night before.

“Though, it won’t be half as exciting without you here,” you made eyes at Joe, knowing that if people were to find that selfie online, they were going to be coming in hoping to get one too. 

“Tell them I’m in here all the time, they’ll come back and buy more.” Joe said, arms swinging into his coat and stepping towards the door. “I’ll be back before dinner.” 

“Hey,” you said, nodding your head up at him as you leant your arms wide on the counter, hanging in your shoulders. Joe stopped just before he stepped out and turned to look at you.

“I love you.” Your voice laced thick with adoration as you bit your bottom lip in a smile. Joe squeezed one eye shut and stuck his arm out, catching your words with his hand, then pressing them tightly to his chest. 

“I love you too.”

the end.

— read Like A Poem here

The story continues: read A Whisper Away here. —

The Taglisted: @kiwisa @jasminearondottir @josephquinned @cancankiki @sidthedollface2 @dylanmunson @munsonsgirl71 @alana4610 @emmamooney @xomunson @sadbitchfangirl @jssmth5 @bagelofthelord67 @nobody-000 @lluviamg06 @thatonefan-girl - add yourself  

[mrpenguinpants]

Xiao: String of Fate [Soulmate AU] HCs

Hey anon! Okay, I’m just gonna level with you. This request? This request right here? Probably one of my favourites. I went feral over this at 3am and my monkey brain fabricated an entire life story for Xiao when he’s not even out yet.

I sorta combined this request with my feral plot idea (which is honestly a 20k word fic at this point), but ahem, I hope you like and np^^ gotta make so many offerings so Xiao hopefully blesses me. Have a lovely day anon!!

--- Xiao Semi Series

[ Friendship ] [ Falling in Love ] [ Cuddles ] [ Protective ] [ Affection ] [ Jealously ] [ Opposites Attract ] [ Fainting ]

[Masterlist]

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[taglist]  <- if you want to be added, please read this first.

@mikeysbike @unionwitch @musekala @stanzastic @akaasea @xoneaboveallx @adoring-ghost @asheseiler @childelover @dilucsz @dai-tsukki-desu @thicmitten @sunnshiii @hanniejji​  @snowy224 @mayumintsu @tigerpriestess @yuu-yuukurotsuki @legionqueensav​ @youaskedfurret​

---

Xiao: String of Fate [Soulmate AU] HCs

The red string of fate is a concept that those who are connected by a red string are destined to meet and fall in love. Regardless of place, time, or circumstances. The red string can never be broken unless one connected passes away.

Alatus

For the past few days, Alatus would wake up early and scale the mountains of his small village to pick Qingxin flowers. The morning dew would still be on the petals before the sun came by and evaporated everything. It became a bit of a small joke that the elders used to make, that a earth spirit would appear at the break of dawn to place the flowers for harvest. Not that Alatus minded, he was grateful that whatever celestial spirt was out there made sure to replace the ones he took. Remembering to always offer a prayer of thanks and a small offering, you would scold him if he didn’t.

He quickly scaled and vaulted over the wooden beam and slipped into your room. He winced at the sound of his shoes landing on the wooden floor but you didn’t seem to stir. You were still sleeping peacefully as Alatus took the fresh flowers to add to the ones already in your small vase beside you. They were your favourite flower after all. He reminisces about when you were both children and how you would drag him to mountains and tell him all about how at the very top there was his beautiful white flower. But you were both too young with small limbs to even attempt to climb it, plus if you somehow managed to do it, it would take too long and both your parents would be worried. It never seemed to deter you as you reasoned that a wind spirit would help your journey. Come to think of it, you always put a lot of faith into celestial beings. But he goes along with your plan, never one to contain your desire to explore.

He’s suddenly snapped out of his memories when he hears a soft knock on the door. It quietly opens to reveal your mother. She gives him a small smile as he looked a bit guilty for getting caught breaking in before waving him over to hand him something. You left him with a small bamboo package that you had wanted to give on his birthday. On top of the bamboo, you had wrote a short but warming message that you were worried about him always running off outside and that he might catch a cold. He smiled softly at your words, ingraining the way your ink brush flowed down the bamboo sticks into his mind. He offer’s a small thanks as she gives him a comforting hug. Whether for him or her he doesn’t know and she leaves.

He carefully untied the brown string keeping the package together to unravel a blue, white, and gold sleeve. He silently marveled at how beautiful it was and held it up to the light, it almost seemed to shine with subtle highlights. He has no idea how you managed to create this, he had never even seen the dye of red or gold used in clothing before. Perhaps the celestial beings decided to bless you for your prayers and devotion. He gives one small squeeze of your hand as he ties the sleeve to his arm and he slips out through the same window he came from. He looks up at the mountain’s he’s scaled before setting on the tallest one. One so tall the elders say that it could reach celestia.

As he scales the mountain he can feel a taint tug on his thumb, before it slowly disappears. He closes his eyes for a brief moment, breathes in deeply, and continues upwards.

The Golden-Winged King

One of his first adepti duties was to investigate the place he once knew as his home. There had been a dream eating demon that had been spreading curses onto unsuspecting youths. Putting them into eternal sleep before they bodies finally succumbed and they passed away. It was horrible and Alatus swore he would do everything in his power to make the dream demon suffer. Unfortunely, seeing as this was his first time venturing out back into the moral world and still recovering from his trials, he was assigned to work with a senior anemo adepti. One who was well-versed in using polearms that could “show him the ropes” as mortals would say.

This other adepti was too loud and erratic for his tastes compared to the calm and peaceful friend he once knew. Always getting side-tracked and flying around Alatus like some overgrown pixie. Never taking anything serious even though the both of you were tasked to destroy evil. But he held his tongue since this was his senior, gripping his sleeve when he was especially annoyed. This only seemed to spur the other anemo adepti further and inquire about the sleeve. Naturally, Alatus was hostile and guarded. That was first time he ever raised his voice which instead of becoming offended or angry, the other adepti was impressed.

From then on the other adepti seemed to want to interact with Alatus at any given moment. From checking in with him on his latest mission or if he heard about how the delicious flowers tasted. Who even ate flowers? Either way, every instance of communication was brushed aside, he would always make some weak excuse that he needed to train. Which lead to the other challenging him. The both of you were the same element so it would be a good time to see who was the best at wielding it. Overtime he began to look forward to your weekly spars. Even finding a bit of joy out of them. Ever since he had climbed up the mountain it had been constant training and hardships but when it came to these spars. It was fun. Alatus began to open his heart a tiny bit, let’s himself relax and fall into amusement when he see’s his partner’s face pop over him as they hovered over him.

He even began to feel his locked up heart start to beat a bit faster whenever he saw his partner perk up and wave at him. Whenever you threw your arm around him he never brushed you off like he used to, just basked in your presence as you rambled about how this stuck up bird was running everyone through the ground with her demands. It was amusing for fresh adepti’s to see you both interact. The ever stoic and aloof Alatus that taught them through strict rules loosen up immediately and smile whenever your head popped up to scold him for his training methods.

It was fun. Until the day he became possessed and killed you with your own weapon.

Guardian Yaksha

Guizhong was concerned. Ever since Rex Lapis had saved the poor adepti man from his possession, he had locked himself in. He still fulfilled his duties with alarming accuracy but it seemed that he completely on auto-pilot. He could stand in the pouring rain without realizing it or he always seemed to be in such a rush. Asking to do anything that needed to be done rather than relax. He was going to end up running through his long years at this rate. She brought it up to Rex Lapis and his fellow Yaksha but none of them had the time or want to check in on him. It was a time of war after all. Except one.

You watch him stand in the rain. Any attempts from you or Guizhong to ask if he was better always failed and you didn’t want to push. But this was already past the point of simple concern. So the next time you saw him relapse you walked over and embraced him. He usually carried himself as stiff as possible but you swore you were holding one of Rex Lapis’s pillars. You braced yourself to get thrown off or at the very least be questioned but none of those things happened. He just stood there and to be honest, you weren’t sure if that was even more concerning. You both didn’t say anything even when the rain stopped until Rex Lapis had summoned you both over.

You and him never developed a close friendship but he never seemed to brush you away whenever you sat beside him ever since you hugged him in the rain. A bare acknowledgement on good days but that was alright. Just sitting in each other’s presence when the war wanted to be quiet somedays was nice. On harder days when fighting took too much of a toll on your body you would lean your head on his shoulder. He never shrugged you off or seemed bothered by it, in fact, it almost seemed as if he leaned back against you. You both never spoke during these moments, just a silent understanding looming over you both.

Then when Morax announced that Guizhong had passed away, you felt as if you somewhat understood how Xiao felt. You didn’t even register that you had walked back to the same place Xiao was standing back when he was in the rain. The war was finally over but after everything that had happened to get to this point, it was hard. You knew that a few of your other Yaksha’s were ready to return to Jueyun Karst or return to earth. You blink quickly as you feel two arms wrap around you and you realize how funny fate seems to be. You choke out some unintelligible noise that’s a mix between a laugh and a sob as you cling onto him and let your bottled up emotions pour out.

He’s the last person you see in the newly established Liyue, wishing him luck in the rest of his journey, as you return to the earth. You aren’t sure what you’ll turn into but you hope that the peaceful atmosphere you both created will remain.

Xiao

It was completely out of the blue when you asked if he wanted to come on an adventure with you. You were both sitting under the tree that held the Wangshu inn up when you suddenly sat up and pointed in some far off direction across Liyue. Asked if he wanted to come with you after the lantern festival was over. He was a bit taken aback, you were a traveler first and foremost but you never asked if he wanted to come with you. You had always assumed that he wanted to stay as a protector of Liyue but after what Morax, now Zhongli, had said and how it was time to him to step down. You decided to ask him. It didn’t have to be far, you both could go to the stone gate if he wanted, just if he wanted to come with you anywhere.

His first instinct is to decline but you end up cutting him off before he can say anything.

“I know you have your reasons and loyalties to stay as Liyue’s protector. That’s why I’m not asking for you to accompany me across Teyvat. But I don’t know when I’m going to be back and after what happened in Liyue, I thought it would be nice to just, take a break, and go anywhere. You don’t have to accompany me if you don’t want to but I think it’d be nice to wander together,” you say as you continue to look across the land from the balcony. He can’t see where you’re looking at exactly but he ponders your words.

To wander and go anywhere. Just the two of you. He’s never even considered leaving Liyue even after all the demons were replaced with weak hilichurls and slimes. He gazes up at the tree’s leaves, looks further to see celestia, and even further back to his home. Guizhong always said he needed to relax and live in the moment of now rather than running past everything but was he really ready for that? 

“Ah, sorry was that a bit too forward? I really didn’t mean anything ba-”

“Yes. Let’s go,” Xiao cuts you off as his eyes shine in a new light of determination, “Wherever you want to go, I will come with you.”

You blink once, twice, before a bright grin stretch's across your face as you quickly ask if he’s joking. He’s not, and you cheer excitedly as you list off different places you’ve wanted to explore. Perhaps the shoal? Maybe even further into the chasm? Actually wait, the electro archon has closed that area off so maybe not there. Xiao patiently listens to you ramble as he smiles softly. Your excitement is addicting and he can feel his heart flutter just a bit. How long has it been since he felt this way? He can feel a small tug on his thumb, he looks down but he can’t see anything, but there’s a comfortable weight that he’s felt has been missing for a very long time.

---

If this seems interesting and people seem to enjoy it, I can post the actual fic when Xiao banner drops as a bit of a catalyst. It’s basically the same idea.  Though it’s kinda long so I have no idea when that’s going to be finished. It might turn into a thank you gift instead. (or ahem, you know, if you wanna commission me and see it earlier there’s that haha just kidding;;).

Honestly, I took a lot of liberties. I read the lore on adepti and Xiao but most of this is my monkey brain and previous semi xiao fics (which you don’t have to read but it would be helpful to see extended parts). Phew, this took a lot of time. It’s not as cute as my other fics but hopefully you all enjoyed it^^

Actually, nevermind. I hate this. I’ll keep it up since I haven’t posted this week yet but I hate this. 

[katyahina]

I really love all your theories and just general thoughts about bloodborne. you’re one of my favorite accounts on here!! every thing you post is so interesting :). anyway I think all the hard work you do is cool. ty for sharing your thoughts with the public

Alright, but all the 'Who tf is paying people for telling me nice things?' jokes aside, thank you so much for sending this ;-; Genuinely.

I am not going to lie, sometimes I am self-conscious about my headcanons and theories. Like, am I overthinking it? Am I doing the blue curtains syndrome on the game? Or maybe my characters interactions ideas are too uncomfortable and grim?

But honestly it is faint hope that somewhere out there some people MIGHT find my thoughts interesting that motivated me to share anyway. That, and also having no filter. But mostly faint hope thing.

And it just makes me feel so happy to see the confirmation for that optimism ;-; I just want everyone here who sometimes also wonders if their takes are interesting at all to remember that it is internet. Many fans are lurking, many might be too shy to send a message like this anon, but you probably have more people who care than numbers and direct feedback give off. So just share your thoughts! (yes, your thoughts about "that one obscure loreless character nobody else cares about" especially.)

[shieldofrohan]

Sansa never wishes for a dog. Robert (yes we should definitely take his sayings as gospel) said get her a dog. But Arya did wish for a dog. 🤔🤔 Why do people not ship Arya with the Hound? What is two years age difference to an already pedophilic ship??

Hello Anon,

Oh you completely missed the point, I am afraid:

The passage from the book:

House Clegane's origins btw: The first Clegane of House Clegane was kennelmaster at Casterly Rock. During one autumn year he saved Lord Tytos Lannister from a lioness, although he lost a leg and three dogs while doing so. Lord Tytos rewarded him with lands and a towerhouse. Ser Clegane's son was placed in Tytos's service as his squire. For his sigil Ser Clegane used the three dogs he lost saving Tytos, on the yellow of autumn grass. [awoiaf]

he saved Lord Tytos Lannister from a lioness, although he lost a leg and three dogs while doing so

Lion-killing dog part is important therefore... Not just some random dog.

Anyway.

You forget that poor Aria "I CAN'T SEW SO I AM A VICTIM" Stark doesn't deserve a lesson like having sex with an older ugly evil dude to teach her how she is an evil brat for being a 11 (9) yo beautiful girl who believes in good and heroes.

Please FOCUS on the message that the books are trying to give. Like Aria would say: That's Sansa. Sansa deserves that lesson. Aria suffered enough... do you think kicking a corpse, attacking your sister constantly, killing a child, calling everything stupid or joining an assassin cult and murdering people is easy??? Give her a break!

According to some fans 2-3 years between Sansa and Aria means that Sansa was an adult who was ruining Aria's life with her evil beauty and toxic good manners. So there is a hugeeeee difference. And unlike Dog/Sansa's case they can't justify this ship by claiming that they only ship older Aria with that Dog. Because Sansa will always be the older one?? How can't you see that?

Jokes aside... why does Grrm keep this dog alive anyway? Poor Aria and Sansa. Grrm keeps wasting pages for that dog in Stark sisters' chapters and for what? So that THEY can teach him a lesson about believing good and mercy? Jeez kill him already. Even Aria suffered enough man.. imagine me!!! I had to read them all.

FCK THAT DOG, KEEP HIM AWAY FROM CHILDREN!

Damn Aria... you should have killed him gurl, now Grrm will write some tragic redemption or some shit arc for him... SMH.

Lol Robert should have been worried about boars not btches.. Drunk fool.

Thanks for the ask, have a nice day.

[waywardstation]

Now that Ingo is able to properly sleep the rest of the Pearl Settlement has trouble to sleep because Sneaslers Warden snores like a train engine!

All jokes aside this was incredibly sweet and cute! The way choose to write the "holes" in Ingo's memory when trying to remember the sound of Nimbasa City at night. It's kinda sad how little he remembers... And sleepless nights? It's less from things being too quiet/noisy but I relate so hard. Yet he tries to make the best out of this to make Akari happy and because of his own curiosity. Ohhh! I've always wanted to try Dangos! I think they probably taste similar to sweet mochis but still. Ingo going into protective Uncle/Dad mode (duncle? dadcle?) when Volo shows up. He's not able to put a finger on it but he knows he is suspicious towards her. I love that!

A shame we didn't see more Gingko Guild Explanations to modern appliances because they were hilarious (but I'm already happy with what we got) And Ingo dozing off in the middle of all of this and Akari making the connection was brilliant.

And awwwww (I literally AWWWW'ed out loud) when Ingo realized that the Soundscape player has the exact noises he can't fully recall but he misses. And Akari going out of her way to help him... THEY'RE FAMILY YOUR HONOR! They have each other for support after being thrown out of their times.

I love when stories make me happy like this. Yours always make me happy but this one is especially cute! Thank you for the new update!

I’m regards to my latest fic, Behind (Sleep) Schedule

Anon, this was such a nice message to wake up to!! You’re so sweet, you have no idea how much I really appreciate such an in-depth response to my fic ;v; thank you!! <3 <3

Ingo really can snore like an engine train!! The guy is LOUD and now that’s Pearl clan’s problem!!

Thank you though, Anon!! I am so happy to hear that you enjoyed the fic! The holes part were hard to write, I struggled with writing about the things Ingo couldn’t quite remember without leaving the audience entirely lost as well haha. So I’m glad that came across the way it should have!

And dango looks very good! I was looking up festival/special Japanese treats that would have been around since before the 1800’s, and found dango! It was described to be very similar to mochi in the creation and ingredients process, so I felt it would have been perfect for Beni to make! There are tons of different types of dango too, it’s very interesting!

And it’s very fun writing Ingo being suspicious of Volo haha. Even before I got to the end of the game, I was wary of him and wondering why he was being so buddy-buddy. When he got nosy with Ingo’s amnesia in the ancient quarry, I began distrusting him even more.

Ingo performs a lot of safety checks, and I see him as generally cautious. so I like writing a version where he picks up on these strange habits of Volo and is wary, even if Volo technically hasn’t done anything yet.

And thank you!!! I’m glad you liked the appliance expo part!! I honestly could have written about all sorts of appliances and their incorrect uses for countless paragraphs, it’s so fun, but I kept asking myself “how many people would seriously want to read about what appliances are and how they work?” Haha. But I am very glad you liked what I wrote, I had a lot of fun with that part! There is an upcoming fic with another appliance though, maybe you’ll see more from that!

And I’m so happy to hear my fic got an out-loud reaction, that’s so sweet ;w; thank you!! Akari and Ingo are so similar, and have so many ways that they can help each other out! I’m sad that the game doesn’t fully explore this potential (but it’s understandable), so I love writing stories that can explore that and give me the content I crave haha. Glad other people enjoy it too!!

I really appreciate that you like my fics, and it means so much that they make you happy. I love writing feel-good stories to make people happy, so it���s so nice to know its doing just that! :) thank you so much for enjoying my content, and for the WONDERFUL review!! It made my day!! :) <3

[give-soup-please]

Good evening! How are ya? Everything is quite fine and dandy here, we're sorry for responding so late about the maliciously compliant reader request that you did but WOAH MAN it's amazing! The original requester is still screaming in happiness about the headcanons that I have to do all the talking because they aren't going to calm down anytime soon! Heheh, so as a thank you for the hcs, may you accept this bowls of chicken noodle soup?

🍜🍜🍜

Jokes aside, your writing is really good! The Narrator's characterization is so on point that it might be the actual Narrator is in that very scenario and I clap to you for that! Not even I can get on that level, you should be honored! <3

That's all, have a nice day!!

I've had this message in my inbox for a few days, and everytime i see it i smile. Thank you so much, anon. and hell yes, i'll have that soup. I'm really glad you like my writing. Thank you so much <3

[classyfruit]

⚜️ ClassyfruitbASKet - Part 4 ⚜️

Good evening/timezone to all of you! 🤗 Here we go again, another - uncharacteristically timely 😅 - edition of our classy Q&A. I hope to do this once a week with changing topics so you all get a chance to have your questions answered! Never be shy to ask me something, I love getting messages from you and I READ. THEM. ALL. 😳 Even if I need a LONG time to reply due to arting. You and your input are incredibly welcome and I appreciate every message, ask and like! ✨ Today's topics are: Mother Miranda and some personal questions/messages you sweethearts sent me! Let's-a go!

Request corner

Good evening to you too, @shaitanmachine2004 ! 😌 Why of COURSE we will see more of birb mom--... I mean Motheranda... I mean Mirander... I mean... Glory to her! 😬 In fact, I do have a sketch lying around for her that I haven't yet uploaded. I might be tempted to do so next week. 😉

_______

Thank you for asking about my fix-it comic and especially everyone's favourite birb mommy. 🥰 (Cue Alcina going: "Ohh Mother Miranda~") Of course Miranda will also get comfort in due time! You can look forward to the next pages for sure, if you want some soft, wholesome and a bit emotional moments. Stay tuned, dearest anon! 😘

_______

Hi there, birb-watching anon! Thank you so much for showing my version of Miranda some love! 😘 I adore the original design, too, but my love for middle-aged women went brrr and that was the resolut. 😆 And I agree, Miranda deserves all the love.

About me

Aw, shucks! 😳 You sure know how to compliment someone. I hope you slept well afterwards, you anonymous charmer! 🥰 (Also, nothing to regret here, you sweetheart!)

_______

Such an honour! Much power, such conduct! 😌 Honestly, classical music conductors accomplish pure magic (C'mon,they even have a wand!). 🧙 I don't think there's any I COULDN'T take this as a compliment! Thank you very much, incognito friend!

_______

So nice of you to ask, anon! (Although I don't recall which day I originally saw your ask on. 🤔) My days have been filled with relaxation and with the utter joy to return to the drawing board for you all, so I am happy as a clam! I hope it's as good a day for you! 😊

_______

No, YOU ALL are awesome!!! All jokes aside, thank you so much, I appreciate you all more than you could ever know! 😘 And my Classyfruit journey wouldn't be the same without all of you. So thank YOU and YOU are the awesomestestest... ✨

_______ Et voila, questions answered/reacted to, mischief managed, crops watered and skin cleared. As always, thank you all so much for sending in your questions and asks and reading until this point! You are my favourite fruits and friends. 🤗 I'll see you next Monday and in the meantime, you all got homework: Stay hydrated, stay warm, take care of yourself EXTRA well! Much love!💕 Classy

[petite-madame]

Lol at that Steve and Bucky gifset you just reblogged - plain baseball caps are CLEARLY the height of blending in 😂

Hi anon ^^

LOL, that’s why they are “team cap”, I guess. *badum tsss!!*

But you know, joke aside, sometimes, it takes hardly nothing for someone not to be recognized and people tend not to pay attention to what’s happening around them because they are busy, looking at their phones, on the hurry, etc...I mean, Henry Cavill stood around in Times Square wearing a Superman T-shirt and no one took any notice.

It’s me, your boy Clark Kent...without my glasses xD

If Captain America was real and on the run, MAYBE a pair of glasses and a cap would be enough to look incognito. Except when it comes to kids: Chris Evans said in an interview somewhere that whatever he does (growing a beard, wearing a hat), kids spot him immediately.

Thanks a lot for your message. Have a nice weekend anon ♥

[tamcitrus]

Experience.

pairing | Kageyama Tobio x f!reader

genre | smut, friends to lovers?

warnings | smut

words | 2.6 k

anon request: could i request a nsfw fic with kageyama, where y/n is childhood friends with him and they start to ✨experiment✨? thank you !!

Kayegama and you had been friends since elementary school. You watched each other grow through the years, through heartbreaks, hobbies and passions. You had been there for him when he didn't make it into the elite school he wanted and he was there for you when you got your heart broken by going into different high schools. But that didn't avoid the two of you meeting each other and talking now that you were almost adults.

"So, you have a crush on him," Kageyama said.

"No! I just want him to give me a kiss," you laughed.

"I don't know what the big deal is," your best friend huffed.

"That's because you never kissed someone," you joked. But then, silence. "Kags, did you ever kiss someone?"

"I don't have time for that," he said.

You crawled to him from the other end of the couch and sit really close to him. The game you were watching was forgotten.

"Would you like to try?" you whispered.

"What are you talking about, dumbass?" his cheeks were red as an apple.

"Kissing," you insisted. "You'll like it."

"I did kiss someone before, shut up."

He pushed you away from his body but miscalculated where his hand would land, so he ended up pushing you away and touching your boobs.

"If you're gonna touch me like that, kiss me first," you laughed.

"Whatever. I'm going home," he was flustered. He stood up and looked at you, he was waiting for you to say something.

"Ok, don't forget we have a study session tomorrow after your practice. Good night," you smiled at him.

He huffed again and exited your house to walk the few meters that separated your entrance from his front door. In moments like this, he hated to be your neighbor.

He took a shower that night and tried so hard not to think about how soft your breasts felt on his hand, even with clothes on. Also, he tried not to think how pink and fluffy your lips looked and how you always smelled like cinnamon and coffee. Well, that not thinking thing wasn't going well.

He couldn't focus the next morning. His tosses were accurate but not 100%. He kept losing track of the explanations his professors did. And in the afternoon practice, he missed a serve.

He walked home with his teammates. He took a shower and grabbed his backpack to go out and knock on your door.

"Hi grumpy!" you said to him. You were still in your Seijoh’s uniform.

"Hi," he walked in and followed you to your room.

You were nervous. Even when Tobio was your best friend, the way he accidentally touched you made your stomach flip around. Maybe you could act like a experienced girl but in reality, you weren't any better than your experienceless volleyball-obsessed childhood friend.

"Hey, y/n, I'm talking to you," Tobio waved his hand in front of your face.

"Oh, sorry. Let's get started!"

You opened your books and started reading and asking questions to each other. After a solid two hours of studying, you let your mind wander again.

"Have you ever thought about it?" you inquired.

"About calculus?" he looked unamused.

"No, dumbass. About… being with another person."

"W-why would I think about that?" he blushed. His mind was filled again with his thoughts from last night.

"I don't know. Curiosity? I'm curious about it. I mean, come on, we're 18 already."

"What does that even mean?"

"I don’t know. Would you like to try it?" you said without hesitation.

"I don't know…" he put his book down and looked at you.

You moved until you were side to side with him. You grabbed his hand and put it on your thigh, just below the end of your skirt. You mimicked the motion with your hand and squeezed his thigh.

"So many volleyball years made you look good," you whispered.

Both of you could feel the tension in the air but you were so afraid to talk or even move and make this weird moment to end abruptly.

He tried to remember how you approached to him last night, you face so close to his he could smell your perfume. He did the same but he didn't stop until his lips met yours. It was a shaky kiss, full of doubt, but also decision. This was him telling you yes, let's go for it, let's try. You deepen the kiss and shyly pushed your tongue through his lips. This was easy, kissing was something you did before, so you could guide him through it. Your hand found its way to his silky hair and tangled itself in it. You pushed your body up with your knees and straddle his legs. He rested his back on your bed and awkwardly posed his hands on your lower back.

"Don't be shy, do it," you whispered against his lips.

He let out a shaky sigh and let his hands go down to your ass. You cried when he squeezed your flesh and he felt an unfamiliar warm and tickles on his lower belly. Oh. You could felt it too. He had an erection. You separated your lips from him and smiled. He didn't know how to gently ask you to get off of him so he pushed you aside and gathered his stuff to leave.

"I'm sorry, did I…?" you tried to apologize. Maybe you've gone too far.

"I ha-have to go!" he stuttered. "See you later."

He walked out of your house as fast as he could, always holding his backpack in front of his legs to cover his problem.

He needed to think but he felt too hot and bothered to do it, so he took a cold shower. He needed to vomit his thoughts or he would go insane. But, who could help him? Surely not his dumb teammates. Well, maybe there was one or two people who could help.

"I'm so sorry to bother you," he bowed to his former captain. Daichi could make a little break from his study to meet with his old friend after classes.

"It's not a problem! So, what did you want to talk about? It must be a big deal since you're asking for help," Daichi smiled.

"There's this girl…" Tobio whispered. Daichi choked on his drink but he hoped the younger guy didn't notice. "And she… and it felt good but then I… panicked and I- I ran out of there!" he ended his sentence with a bit more of energy than he intended.

Daichi didn't have words. "Did she said something to you?" he tried to keep his composure.

"She tried to apologize when I was leaving," he nodded. 

"And what did you said?" Daichi felt like a deja vu, like Kageyama was a first year and just got there wanting to play.

"No-nothing," he tried to sound confident.

Daichi slapped his own forehead and sighed. "Do you want to do that again with her?"

Kageyama thought for a second and then, he nodded.

"Ok, they like when you're straight forward. And leaving without saying a word it's not good, you should apologize. And just do what feels right or ask her what she wants… And don’t forget to use a condom," as Daichi talked he lowered the volume of his voice. He couldn’t believe he was having this conversation. He should’ve call Suga to come with him.

“Oh, you're right,” Kageyama nodded. He should buy one on his way home.

“Oh my god, here,” Daichi took his wallet and gave his friend a condom. “Just in case.”

Tobio was surprised. Daichi really was prepared for anything, he did the right thing when he called him.

After he got his senpai advice, Tobio felt a little bit better. But also, he had to talk to you and he had no idea how to start that conversation. He decided to start with a message.

Tobio: Are you free tonight? I don’t have practice tomorrow.

y/n: Yes! You can come after practice and maybe have dinner with me? My parents will be out.

That wasn’t so hard, he thought. He walked back to his house at the end of his day and got ready for your meeting. You welcomed him on your sports uniform. You were already preparing dinner. He never had a problem to talk to you before, what was wrong now?

“How was your day, grumpy?” you asked. You were nervous too, but you were better at hiding it.

“Normal,” he said. “Do you need help?”

“No, it’s all done, it’s just ramen,” you smiled. “Do you want to watch something while we eat?”

You ended up watching a random volleyball game that was on tv. The atmosphere felt the same as the day before when you were all over each other. But nothing was happening.

“I’m sorry,” he said out of nowhere.

“What?”

“You heard me, I’m not saying it again,” he looked aside. “I ran away and it wasn’t nice.”

“No, it wasn’t. I thought I scared you off,” you smiled. “Do you want to make up for it?”

Tobio looked at you, the slightest blush on his cheeks, and nodded.

“Do you want to continue where you left yesterday?” you asked and he nodded again.

You got up and straddle his legs again, this time you didn’t hesitate and just kissed him. He returned the kiss with energy, sucking on your lower lip and he smirked when you left a little moan escape your mouth. You rocked you hips in response and he gasped. You pulled the end of his shirt and he helped you to get it off his body. He did the same with your blouse, exposing your bare breasts to the cold air in your living room.

“Why you’re not…” Kags started asking but you interrupted his dumb question when you grabbed his hands and put them on your tits.

“Like this, gently,” you whispered as you squeezed your soft flesh with his hands. His jaw dropped and he nodded.

As he was busy with your boobs, you unbuttoned his pants and pumped his dick over his boxer.

“Fuck-” he said. His breathing was heavy and his blue eyes looked darker than usual.

He pushed you aside to make you lay on the couch. He took the hem of your shorts and pulled it down. He froze for a second but then he thought it would only be fair to be in the same state that you were so he took off his pants too. It was his turn to straddle your legs. He leaned down, his arms at each side of your head, and he kissed you again. The feeling of your nipples touching his chest was driving him crazy. He guided his mouth down to your neck and slowly made his way to your breasts.

“Can I… uhm,” he looked at you and you just nodded.

He licked his lips and sucked at your nipple and the skin around it, releasing it after a few seconds with a loud pop. The way you moaned at his action clouded his mind with lust. He just wanted to hear you like that again and again. So he repeated his ministration in the other nipple. You pushed your hips up to met his erection and he moaned on your skin. You tangled your fingers on his silky hair and pulled from it. His mouth on your skin felt so good, better than the other guy who tried to hook up with you, and you were sure that no one else would make you feel this good. You took his hand and guided it to under your panties to your clit. You moved it in circles over it, until he got the message and move it on his own. He sat on your legs for a second and used his free hand to pull down your underwear. When you were finally naked, he blushed. He guided his hand back to your clit and the other to your boobs, to massage them in the way you showed him. After a few minutes you were trembling under his body.

“Kags, please…” you begged. He stopped and leaned down to kiss you again, that way he gave you a minute to get yourself together and explain what you wanted. “I want you inside of me,” you whispered on his ear.

“Wait,” he kissed you again and walked to his pants to take the condom he brought with him. He took his boxers off and opened the little package to finally roll the latex on his cock. He kneeled between your legs and looked at you again.

“It’s ok, just do it,” you smiled.

He aligned his dick with your entrance and slowly pushed himself inside you. You shut your eyes immediately and moaned. Once he was deep inside you, he carefully leaned down to kiss you. He could feel your pussy throbbing and adjusting to his size and it was an amazing sensation. He was so tempted to just move but he would wait until you said something, you were the one that guided things through, it was always that way. He trusted you that much, to the point to put himself in your hands and let you guide him through life.

“Mo-move, please,” you whispered.

And he wanted to please you, so he did. He moved his hips back, until he was almost out of you, and then forward again. He repeated this, thrusting again and again. You moved your hips up to meet him halfway and cried out loud when his dick hit your g spot. But that didn’t last long.

“Y/n! Are you ok? Did I hurt you?” Tobio pulled out the second after he heard your cry.

“That felt so good, Kags… I’m fine, do that again, please,” you were panting. “Or, even better, let’s switch places.”

You pulled him down from his arm at the same time you stood up. Then, you straddle his hips and leaned down to kiss him. Your hand took his dick and aligned it with your entrance, then you let your body fall down on him.

“Y/n, shit!” he moaned and watched you bit your lower lip as his dick disappeared under your body.

You placed your hands on his chest for support and started to ride him in a slow rhythm. You rocked your hips back and forward and observe him shut his eyes or bite his lip in response. You thought he look beautiful, even more that when he put that scary face when he played volleyball. He used his hands to massage your breasts again, his cold hand made you shiver and you moaned his name.

“Y/n, I’m about to-”

“Shh, me too, just- fuck,” you bounced on his dick again and finally felt your release. 

Your walls clenching violently around Tobio’s cock sent him to his climax too, and he took you from the waist to make you move off of him before he came inside you. He knew that with a condom and all, it wasn’t the best.

“Are you ok?” he said as he sat by your side.

“Never been better,” you smiled. “What about you?”

He kissed you and smiled in response.

“I’m… uh I’m tired. Can we go to your room?” he said as he got dressed.

“Yeah, sure,” you took your panties and his shirt to dress. “Bring some water on your way,” you smiled at him.

You took the rest of your clothes and walked to your room. The futon where Tobio always slept was set already, but maybe you should ask him to shared your bed with you. Even if he said no, it would be nice to see him all flustered for it. Maybe you needed to have a talk after what happened, but that probably could wait to the next day.

"For the record, when I said being with someone, I referred to being with you," you said when he entered your room. "Do you want to sleep with me?"

[aereres]

Still Into You - Mitch Marner

Summary: When Y/N agreed to join her older brother at the Marners' for Christmas, she didn't expect to find herself infatuated with her brother's best friend all over again.

A/N: I am so excited to post this ngl... Anons, here’s the Mitch fic!

Word Count: 3,4k

Warnings: drinking, maybe some swear words, lots of teasing and flirting, maybe some angst?

"God, this is bringing back High School memories," Andrew mumbled under his breath, a smile on his lips as he drove through the snowy streets. The landscape was a mixture of tall trees and mountains, some clouds blocking the view of their peaks.

"You guys came here often?" You asked your brother, noticing a rather large house just a few miles away.

"Every summer," Andrew said, taking another turn as he gave you a quick look. "We used to throw the biggest parties ever, before Marner left,"

"And you didn't even invite me," you tsked, pushing your beanie on the top of your head when he pulled up inside a driveway, your eyes scanning the fancy mountain house before you.

"Try to be nice, okay?" Andrew warned you, pointing a finger your way as he left the car. You lifted up your middle finger when he turned your back to you to knock on the front door, and you finally left the car to grab your bags.

"Oh my God, Andy! Hi!" You recognized Bonnie's voice, a smile forming on your lips as you looked at your long-time family friend hugging your brother tightly. "I haven't seen you in ages,"

"Hi, Bonnie," your brother chuckled, gently pulling back to hug her husband. His smile grew even larger when Mitch appeared, the two best friends finding themselves in a tight embrace as they laughed in chorus.

"Oh, Y/N," Bonnie sighed happily, pulling you in a hug and kissing the top of your head lightly. "I'm so happy you could make it, honey,"

"Thank you for having me," you smiled, hugging Paul when he greeted you. You met Mitch's eyes, a smile forming on your lips as you found yourself in front of the old friend. His features had changed from the last time you'd seen him, he was built, and he definitely looked taller. His smile was still the same, though. The one you had loved so much.

"Hi," he said lightly, opening his arms for you, letting you go after a couple of seconds. You took in the insides of the house: the tall Christmas tree, the fireplace in the living room, the large windows, and the soft lights that illuminated the various rooms. It felt... cozy.

"Anyone wants hot chocolate?"

-----

Mitch was trying to keep his eyes off of you. The light of the fireplace was hitting your body just right, and he could have sworn you were the prettiest sight on earth. It had been years since he had last seen you, leaving you with a quick 'goodbye' and an excited smile on his face.

It had been the night before the draft, he could still remember it. He said goodbye to all his friends, left the girl he was seeing with a kiss, and came to see Andrew one last time. You had happened to stand by the doorway, catching the last few glimpses of their bone-crushing hug as they laughed. Mitch had walked past you, ruffling your hair with a chuckle before walking towards the front door of your door to go back home, ready for his new start.

Since then, he had barely spent time home, missing not only the growth of his entire family, but also of his closest friends which, in some ways, involved you, too.

The braces you had once worn were gone, your short hair had become long, framing your face in the best possible way, and your younger version had left to let the new you take over. You were a sight to see.

"Marner, eyes on the game," Andrew snapped him out of his trance, tapping his thigh with his controller and pointing at the TV. His best friend had beaten him another time, making him scoff softly.

"Man, and I thought I got better at videogames," Mitch joked, slipping his phone out of his pocket to check some messages. Andrew stood up, stretched for a couple of seconds, and looked at his sister.

"I'm going to bed," he stated, running a hand through his dark hair. "We gotta throw a party, man, like the old times,"

"Sure," Mitch mumbled, rubbing the back of his neck as he saw the little smile that formed on your lips. "I'll try to find a way to get my parents out of here,"

"Cool," Andrew said, ruffling your hair and making you scoff softly before leaving the room with a small 'goodnight'. Silence grew between you and Mitch as you kept your eyes trained on your book, your heart beating out of your chest.

"It's been a while," he admitted, running a hand through his hair as his eyes found the fireplace. "I've missed you,"

You smiled softly, looking up at him as you shut the book. "Everyone missed you, around here," you chuckled. "How's the big NHL life going?"

"Busy," he sighed, letting his neck lean against the back of the couch and close his eyes. "Just constantly training and having games, but it's rewarding. School?"

"Dropped out of college," you chuckled. "I mean, now I got a job, so it's not that big of a deal,"

"Oh wow," Mitch teased, stealing your book and smirking your way. "So, nerdy Y/N is telling me she dropped out of college?"

"I wasn't nerdy," you mumbled as you tried to reach for your novel, stepping on the tip of your toes and following him around the living room. He let you get your book, his hands placing themselves against the wall behind you, caging you between his arms and the nearest wall.

"Oh really?" He whispered in your ear, your body so close to his you could feel his warmth. His nose touched yours, the smirk still painting his lips as his hazel orbs stared deep into yours. "Your glasses were cute, back then,"

The noise of a door opening made him scramble away from you, your brother's heavy steps making their way down the stairs. "God, I am thirsty," Andrew mumbled under his breath, totally not realizing what had been happening just seconds prior.

"I-I'm going to bed," you stuttered, gathering your things and letting your adrenaline-filled body lift itself up from the couch. "Goodnight,"

You didn't register their answers as you made your way to the guest bedroom as quickly as you could, shutting the door and sliding your back against it. Your breathing was heavy, hands shaking as the events replayed in your head. Mitch was just so close, his words just so teasing, he had you wrapped around his fingers.

But you were so sure you had moved on, you were so sure that your tiny, stupid crush on him had been over when he'd left, when many other girls had started to gain his attention. You were sure that you had been over what once was a teenage crush on your brother's best friend.

You clearly were not.

-----

The lights of the lampposts outside the mountain house reflected inside Mitch's room. He had been lying awake for what felt like hours, his thoughts making it impossible for him to sleep. Three days into the Christmas getaway and things were already going messy for him.

The vacation was supposed to bring him out of the chaos and anxiety that filled his head, to make him relax, to let all the stress that was his normal life aside for a couple of weeks. Yet, his love life had decided to make an appearance, turning his plans into old, stupid thoughts.

You had left his mind when he got drafted, he was going to be honest. He didn't expect to feel the exact way about you as he felt when he was a teen, he didn't expect his old crush to come back when he saw you after all those years.

The feelings inside his body were foreign, from the way his heart would start beating loudly when he'd see you around the house, to the way his fingers would tingle after he'd touch your skin. He couldn't understand his own body, and it frustrated him.

He felt as if he was standing in the middle of an empty, dark room, where he couldn't understand what was happening around him and to him. He was confused, and he needed to know what he was feeling for you, what his heart needed.

He closed his eyes, fisting the bedsheets as he clenched his jaw.

Mitchell Marner hated being confused.

-----

Mitch skated slowly on top of the iced lake, puffs of warmth leaving his mouth as he and your brother passed each other a puck, just like the old times. Mitch was laughing loudly, throwing his head back at something Andrew had said, his rosy cheeks looking as adorable as you remembered them.

Bonnie handed you a cup of warm tea before going back to the living room, leaving you to stand by the backdoor to look at the boys. Mitch's eyes caught yours as he skated around, a small smile never leaving his lips as he got off the ice, Andrew following right in tow.

"Damn, it's cold out there," Andrew mumbled while they got rid of their skates. Your brother walked past you to reach the fireplace, your eyes finding Mitch before you moved towards the kitchen.

You grabbed the sugar container and a spoon, turning your back to the entryway and getting deep inside your thoughts. A hand on your hip brought you back to real life, the feeling of a firm chest against your back making chills run up your spine. You spun around to face Mitch, your hands flattening against his chest.

"What are you doing, Mitch?!" You whisper yelled.

"Just, you know, reaching for a mug," he said, the smirk you knew too well adorning his features. "What are you doing, princess?"

You fluttered at the name, biting on your bottom lip as he kept his body close to yours. Your mind went into overdrive, thoughts filling your head as you got lost in his pretty eyes. You needed to understand.

He pushed a stray hair behind your ear, smiling at you when you blushed lightly. "Mitch, what are we doing?"

"What do you mean?"

"What's-" you motioned between your bodies. "What's this? You leave me hanging, tease me,"

"Ever heard of flirting, Y/N? Or is Andrew that protective?" Mitch smirked, watching you bite on your bottom lip as you looked at him. "I could tell you had a crush on me when we were kids, and maybe now it's slowly getting mutual,"

You looked at him in shock as he moved around the kitchen, filling up his mug with tea, adding some sugar to it, grabbing a snack. "You-"

"I mean, I saw you as a little sister back then just because I didn't want to fuck things up with Andy," he said, leaning against the counter to look your way, his smirk replaced with a small, soft smile. "But now we grew up, Andrew has more important things to focus on, and you can't stop leaving my mind,"

He leaned down to place a lingering kiss on your cheek, making you heat up and gasp softly as he grabbed his mug. "Gotta go, now," he smirked your way. "Oh, and we're throwing that party on Thursday,"

Thursday. Christmas Eve.

"Alright," you sighed out, your heart beating out of your chest. He sent you a wink as he left the kitchen, your body still buzzing from his contact. You took some time to get yourself back together, biting on your lip before you made your way towards the living room, joining your brother and the Marners.

'Home Alone' was playing on the TV when you took place next to Andrew on the couch, picking at the skin around your nails as your long-forgotten tea sat in front of you.

"You okay?" Andrew asked, his eyes scanning your features before settling back on the TV. "You've been weird these past few days,"

"I'm fine. Just missing home, I guess," you mumbled, feeling Mitch's eyes on you, already knowing he was smirking. You almost groaned out loud at the thought of him having you wrapped around his fingers, at the thought of being so at his mercy.

"You'll be fine, you just need to relax," Andrew sighed. "The party this Thursday will probably make you feel better,"

You nodded your head absentmindedly, not noticing your brother's worried glare as you silently kept your eyes on the TV. You zoned out, the laughter from your companions becoming background noise as you fell back into your train of thoughts.

The trip was supposed to be a way to relax, and yet, there you were: panicking over Mitchell Marner. Your brother's best friend. Everything about what was happening was wrong, starting off with the fact that Andrew and Mitch had been friends since day one.

"You just need to relax," were Andrew's words, the ones that were playing on repeat in your mind. And what better way to relax than to join the party? Cute guys, drinks, music. It would have been enough to calm you down and figure things out with Mitch.

There was no way you'd miss the party.

-----

Mitch was deep in his thoughts, his phone pressed against his ear as he looked out of the window. Auston was talking about something that had happened to his sister the day prior, laughter coming from his side as Mitch looked at the snow.

"Man, you're never this silent," Auston sighed, making Mitch shut his eyes and bite back a groan. "I know something's happening, so spill,"

"You better not tell a soul," Mitch said, biting his nails. Auston tsked from the other side of the line, urging his best friend to finally start talking. "Alright, you remember Andrew? My friend from home?"

"Yeah,"

"He's with us for Christmas, and-" Mitch sighed softly, getting ready for his teammate's endless teasing. "And his sister is over, too,"

"Oh, God. You like her, don't you?" Auston whisper-yelled. Mitch was silent, which brought his best friend to conclusions. "Mitch, your best friend's little sister?!"

"I've liked her for years, but I've settled for other girls because of her brother," Mitch explained, rubbing his forehead as he tried to explain the situation better. "But now she's back, looking as pretty as ever, and I just can't help it,"

Silence came from Auston's line, making Mitch's heart beat a little faster than usual. "Aus?"

"I mean, I know you like her, and I know you wouldn't try to break her heart or mess your friendship up," Auston sighed. "Just- be careful, Marner,"

"Uh- yeah," Mitch mumbled.

There was a beat, silence being the only thing coming from both lines. "I gotta go now, man," Auston sighed. "I'll see you soon, okay? Don't fuck things up and ask her out,"

"Alright, bye," Mitch said, ending the call and letting his body fall on his bed. Surely, catching feelings for his best friend's younger sister had been a problem from the start, but he was sure. He was sure that, that time, it wasn't going to be just a game.

-----

The loud bass was enough to snap you out of your thoughts, making you take one last look at yourself in the mirror before leaving your room. People were already crowding the living room, the smell of sweat and alcohol reaching your nostrils and making you wince softly.

You took in some of the familiar faces while you slowly made your way towards the kitchen, your only goal being getting yourself a drink.

The countertop had been transformed into a makeshift bar, different types of alcohol sitting on top of it, waiting to be used. You poured yourself something heavy, just the right mixture that could make you forget about the events of the previous week.

Your eyes fell on the people in the living room, especially on Andrew, who was dancing with a random girl. Next to him stood Mitch, his arms wrapped around two different girls, his large smile on his lips.

Your stomach churned, jealousy taking over you as you stumbled across the house and reached the improvised dance floor. You swayed your hips to the music mindlessly, hoping you'd catch someone's attention and, hopefully, give Mitch a taste of his own medicine.

A pair of hands settled on your hips soon after, resting against the soft material of your skirt and pulling you to a warm body. The stranger's lips were close to your neck, his breath fanning against your shoulder as you moved against him. Wrapping your arms around him, you kept your movements sensual and teasing, your own hands running over your curves and feeling yourself up.

What was supposed to be just one song turned into two, another body taking its place behind you and dancing with you as you lost the concept of time. When you looked around and noticed that Mitch had gone missing, you fell back into your senses, throwing your empty cup inside the closest bin.

As you wandered around the house, you took notice of the people surrounding you, from the beautiful girls, to the boys you swore everyone had a crush on in High School. In the corner stood your brother, a shorter girl wrapped in his arms as the two made out, his hands dangerously close to her ass.

You shook your head, chuckling to yourself as you grabbed your coat, ready to head out to take a breather and chill down. As you stepped outside, you noticed the sound of the hot tub, a long sigh leaving your lips as your heated face met the cold air.

"Hot inside, huh?"

You snapped your head around, noticing Mitch's body inside the warm water, his eyes closed as he talked to you.

"Uh- yeah," you mumbled, biting on your lip as your eyes ran over his tattoos, his strong chest, his muscled thighs.

"You should come in, it feels great after dancing,"

"I'll die of hypothermia, Marner," you scoffed, turning back around to face the view of the mountains, the snow already making your feet cold. "And I don't have a swimming suit with me,"

"I'll keep you warm, Y/N," he smirked, running a hand through his hair. "Just- sit on the edge, I know you're starting to freeze,"

You rolled your eyes, awkwardly walking towards the tub and taking place on the warm edge. You took off your shoes and let your feet fall inside the warm water, a sigh of relief leaving your lips.

"See? I told you you would be just fine," he said, his hand toying with the hem of your skirt absentmindedly.

"What are you doing here, Mitch? This is your party,"

"Got bored, I guess," he mumbled. "And I didn't want to see you with those douches all over you,"

You chuckled coldly, wrapping your arms around your middle to keep yourself warm. "You were all over those girls, I had to give you a taste of your own medicine,"

He laughed under his breath, his hazel eyes finally meeting yours. "There's nothing holding us back, why are we playing hard to get?"

"I don't know," you whispered, your toes grazing the skin of his thigh as you moved around. "I don't understand if you're doing this for fun or if you want me for good, I can't have my heart broken again,"

Mitch looked in front of himself for a second, facing the mountains and the snow that surrounded him before looking back at you. "There has always been something about you, ever since we were kids. I've always tried to push it back because of Andrew, but now, after all these years, I can't just help it anymore,"

You looked at him, squealing when his hands found your smaller back and brought you inside the water, positioning your body on his lap. "I know that you deserve better than me, that you deserve someone who's always present and there for you, but maybe things will finally work out for us,"

"Mitch, just-" you whispered, closing your eyes as you took in his words. "Don't break my heart,"

He leaned in, his promise embedded in his kiss as he let his body lean into yours. Your hands found his cheeks, holding him close to you as you melted into his arms, the whole world around you disappearing. The music that was playing inside the house vanished, and so did the people, leaving only Mitch and you in your own universe.

You pulled away only when your lungs started to hurt, screaming at you to breathe in some air. Your eyes stayed closed as your forehead rested against Mitch's, his hands soft against your skin. "I won't," he whispered, his swollen lips brushing against yours.

"I promise I won't,"

Taglist: @thirsthy-bitch​ @bellaguarneri​ @celestialblae​

[cinnaminsvga]

I think it’s kinda funny how quite a few of us kinda just distanced ourselves from the fandom space and stuff but we still come back here to you haha

Idk how to describe it aside from parasocial bullshit haha but (and I hope this doesn’t bother u or make it feel like an obligation or anything;;) ur presence (?) is v homey?? I’ve been here since a little bit before tlhc when outcast was a thing I think ??? And idk I just find myself coming back every so often to read your stuff even when I don’t listen to kpop as much anymore just because I love your writing and just in general I love your sense of humor

like others have mentioned I find myself thinking abt you (fondly) like when I see cheese in their ramen or when I see churros and yoobie ofc hehe

anways idk I just wanted to say ur very appreciated and ik a lot of us just enjoy your presence in general ((I have ur notifs on from way back when and I can’t bring myself to turn them off so whenever this sort of topic comes up I find myself wanting to just word vomit sappy shit haha))

I care u vv much ms zee I hope ur taking care of ur self and doin stuff that makes you happy <33

FHEKDJWJW BELIEVE ME im literally so amazed that i still gets some asks and other interactions on this blog despite how mia i’ve been 🫠 like wow i exist in your mind?? even when i’m not currently present?? object permanence is a thing?? but thank you fr for still checking in on me despite how much less i’ve been present online ;w;

i’m??? homey to you??? PLEASE that is so sweet of you to say like??? honestly i know i joke around a lot and i try not to take a lot of things too seriously but it’s so nice to know that i am perceived positively by a stranger,,, because for all intents and purposes, i’m just a writer who posts silly little fics and there really isn’t any reason for any of you to like me more than just for my writing, and saying that you like me??? for more than that??? is always such a mind-boggling revelation so thank you very much you are the sweetest ;w;

I CARE YOU TOO!! IT IS SO NICE TO READ YOUR MESSAGES MY LOVELY ANON YOU GOT ME FEELING THINGS ON A SATURDAY EVENING!! THE GRINCH’S HEART GREW FOUR TIMES TODAY!! ILY!!