#lead to unwanted consequences

[shibaraki]

WORTH THE WEIGHT ┊ IWAIZUMI HAJIME

tags: GN reader, gym au / gym owner iwaizumi, reader works out casually, brief sexual harassment (unwanted advances towards reader; not from hajime), pre-relationship, lots of awkward flirting, GOOD GUY HAJIME <3, hopeful ending

wc: 3k

There’s a pointed pressure against your back as the kettlebell swings between your legs. Someone has been staring since you arrived an hour ago—restless from a full day of work, you had wanted to wring out the stress from your muscles and quieten your thoughts before falling into your soft bed.

The unsettling sensation of being watched pulled taut the sinews in your body. Your form was undoubtedly off, hesitant to bend and stretch as you properly should. It hadn’t taken long to notice who it was; an unassuming man had been lingering in your peripheral, commandeering machines soon after you had used them. You weren’t naïve. You understood well enough that people might look, and maybe even admire you, as you worked out. An appreciative glance can be pleasant when done respectfully, and you can admit to briefly checking out a fair few of the regulars here yourself. 

But this was different, and all too familiar. His eyes raked over your frame and you felt it cling to your skin, unease settling like lead in your sternum. After he’d purposefully moved to sit himself on the bench behind you as you lifted you’d tried to finish your reps with the added weight, breathing through the feeling, but ultimately abandoned the set and found solace in your phone. 

A spark of discomfort prickles along your spine, hot frustration pooling in your gut. You had only been coming to Kaiju Fitness for a month and a half, but you’d quickly grown fond of the place. Everyone was respectful and friendly, the evening staff knew you by name and assisted with your form. You felt relief in knowing it was nothing like the multitude of other gyms you’d tried in the past. Finally, a place you were comfortable and safe exercising in. 

Until today, that is. 

He must be new, because you came in every other day after your shift like clockwork and this was your first time seeing him here. He meets your gaze in the reflection of the mirrors, offering a smarmy and unashamed smirk that soils you. Where your fingers tighten around the handle of the kettlebell, you seriously contemplate throwing it at him despite the legal consequences. 

Arrogance is dangerous, daunting. Taking it as an invitation, he stands to approach you even as you keep your eyes on your phone, thumb swiping back and forth through your playlist to feign ignorance. It doesn’t deter him in the slightest—in his single celled brain, you were willing to bet that he thought you were just playing hard to get.

Nervousness takes root despite your anger. The dipole between your bodies distorts the closer he gets, and an innate sense of helplessness keeps you frozen in place, as if you were playing dead. All you can do is sew your eyes shut, breathing inaudibly murmurings of “go away, go away, go away,” in hopes of creating a barrier through sheer will. 

“Hi sweet—”

“Hey, man. Can I help you?” 

In your periphery, a larger man cuts in between you and the strangers intended path. Glancing back towards the mirrors, you find the broad expanse of his back in the reflection. He’s well built, tanned biceps straining against the hem of his t-shirt sleeve where his arms cross decisively over his chest. You can’t see his face but you wish you could as his head tilts, dark hair short and spiked in a way that is almost boyish. 

They’re arguing. Voices low to avoid making a scene, but their postures are anything but civil. Your nameless hero raises a hand to beckon over an employee—Hanamaki, you quickly recall—from the front desk in an authoritative manner. 

You can’t hear much over the quiet rock music reverberating around the gym and the pulse in your ears, but you do latch onto the words “removed from the premises” and “membership cancellation”. In a stunning turn of events, Hanamaki begins to corral the stranger away from the weights area toward the exit. 

“Holy…” still stuck on processing the scene, you almost miss it when the larger man turns to address you “…shit”. 

The man’s face is still pinched with irritation, but it visibly softens when he sees you watching. It’s a little embarrassing, the effort it takes to keep your jaw from slacking when he smiles sheepishly at you, rough hand scrubbing over the crown of his head in what must be a nervous tic. “Sorry about that—” he pauses, his amicable expression faltering for a moment, “—that was ok, right? I didn’t misread that he was making you uncomfortable?”

You sit up straighter and shake your head, quick to placate his worry. “No! No, thank you so much. I—I wasn’t sure what to do so I just hoped he would get the message,” you reply. 

His shoulders relax, the corner of his mouth deepening into a crooked but pleased grin as he stuffs both fists into his sweatpant pockets. “Good to hear, though I’m sorry I didn’t catch on sooner. If anything like that happens again you can always go to the front desk or come find me”. 

Glancing across his chest now that he’s facing you, your eyes catch on the embroidered logo over his breast. He must work here. “You work here then? I haven’t seen you before”. 

His brows pinch into a frown as he tucks his chin, momentarily glaring at his shirt with the click of his tongue. “Shit. Sorry, I’m pretty bad with losing my name tag, the thing must’ve fallen off somewhere…” you exhale a breath of laughter, endeared by his awkwardness as he steps forward to offer you his hand. “I’m Iwaizumi Hajime, owner and founder of this place. Should probably have my act together by now, huh?” 

You take it, palms clammy where they kiss, wrist firm as you shake his and offer your own name. You try not to focus on the difference in size, in how his thumb grazes the peaks of your knuckles, or how his stare is drawn to where your teeth sink into the skin of your bottom lip as you withhold a grin. The touch lingers. 

“It’s pretty reasonable to say that most people don’t have their act together,” you say, lacing your words with mirth, “so I won’t hold it against you”. 

“I appreciate it,” he replies equally amused, the grip on your hand loosening until he lets go and your fingers curl into a fist as if to keep hold of the heat. Falling into a sudden lull, he appraises you with his mouth pursed into a contemplative pout. 

“Are you sure you’re alright? Has this ever happened before?” 

“I’m fine. Actually this is the first time something like that has happened here,” you set your sights on the weights left by your feet, phone still laid on the bench between your thighs. Idly, you wonder just how much Hajime could lift, followed by a brief flush of heat and shame. “I’ve been to a lot of the other gyms in the area and never felt comfortable in them until I found this place”. 

“Seems the guy had only been a member for a few days, so I want to believe this was an anomaly. I won’t tolerate harassment of any kind here,” you look up in time to see his features soften into something apologetic. “Health, safety and comfortability is priority. I hope this won’t deter you from coming back”. 

“Not at all,” even if it had, you would have simply changed the times you came to the gym to avoid any issues. You enjoyed the place too much to give it up over one mishap. Grinning, you add, “I have a strict ‘three strikes and you’re out’ policy for everything in life”. 

Hajime snorts, the swell of his cheek sinking slightly as if he were biting the inner flesh between his teeth. “Then this can be the first and the last,” he murmurs, crows feet deepening by his warm eyes—a pale green that reminds you of the first week of spring, when nascent saplings are just beginning to grow into themselves. 

“If there’s no other problems then I’ll gladly leave you to finish your reps,” he continues, reigning himself back into a more professional tone, “we’ve escorted him from the building but if you’re parked nearby and still feel unsafe, Makki or I will gladly walk you to your car”. 

You can feel it take root in your sternum, a silly little crush. Giddiness spreads through your belly, and you try not to think about how disheveled you probably look. “I’m actually about to wrap up this set!”—you aren’t, the clumsily typed out reps in your notes app would say otherwise—“I would really appreciate that, if you’re happy to wait”. 

Hajime nods, momentarily shifting between each foot as if he were tempted to linger. Emboldened by this, you return to the weights at your feet and prepare to squat. 

“Ah…“ then, there is a large presence sidling up beside you. “Mind if I correct you a little first?” Hajime motions toward your legs. 

Anticipation prickles through you. “Not at all!”

He crouches, careful to ensure his fingers barely apply any pressure to your skin as he coaxes your feet apart, tapping the toe of your shoe to point them further outward. You aren’t uncomfortable, yet you find yourself enduring his proximity with bated breath. 

When he stands upright he looks quietly pleased. Less discomfited than before. You’re reminded that this is his job, and presumably what he loves to do. “There. Try one rep for me?” 

You exhale steadily, rooting yourself into the new stance and nodding. Bending at the knee, but taking care not to overextend, you lift the kettlebell up and feel a satisfying ache deep in your glutes. 

“Much better, right?” he asks, observing you in the reflection of the mirror. “You'll feel it a lot deeper like that”. 

“Yeah,” you rasp, tongue idly wetting your bottom lip as you flex your grip on the handle. It was a helpful comment to make sure you wouldn’t hurt yourself, all the while getting better results. That’s all. “A lot deeper”. 

“Great,” he says, pointing vaguely over his shoulder, “come find me by the front when you’re done, then,”

His low, warm tone settles in your chest long after he leaves. He had spoken to you in a soothing yet awkward manner, like a man used to being perceived as intimidating against best efforts. You thought it quite charming. And awfully attractive. 

As promised, Hajime is waiting by the entrance. He has both arms folded atop the front desk, leant forward across the surface to talk to Hanamaki. In closing the distance, the first thing you realise is that the tip of his ears are red. 

You smile, overhearing the teasing tail end of their conversation, “…on the job? Tut tut, bossman. I’m gonna text your mother about this”. 

“Dickhead. You don’t have her number,” at that, a slow, smarmy grin spreads across Hanamaki’s face. Hajime makes a move to snatch his collar and he sinks back against the computer chair, “Give me your phone”. 

“I’m sure there is some law out there you’re violating right now,” Hanamaki wheezes, his laughter bleeding into the words. You feel compelled to step away from their brotherly moment, but before you can, your gaze is meeting his. “And with an audience? Impeccable customer service, Iwa—!”

Hajime’s head whips around and his sights settle on your figure. You’re back in a comfortable hoodie, backpack half slung over your shoulder with fingers threaded between your car keys. You have settled them between your knuckles by way of habit. 

His eyes widen in realisation, but before he can start to needlessly apologise, you say, “I’m all good to go if you are”.

“Yeah, I’m ready,” he replies, jaw shifting with clenched teeth as he shoots Hanamaki a quick glare. “Let’s get you to your car”. 

The late evening air is crisp, cooling on your skin as it dances into the sleeves of your sweater. This late into the year, the days turn to night far quicker than you liked. Everything feels slightly more daunting. With your car parked a little to the far end of the lot, black pavement and gravel illuminated only by rust coloured streetlights, you find yourself glad for Hajime’s offer. 

“I’m right over there,” you tell him, forefinger pointed towards the vehicle in question and hoping to stir some last minute interaction before you parted ways. There was no telling when you’d get to see him next, given that he clearly didn’t go out into the gym floor too often. 

You hear him hum in acknowledgment at your side. He’s close. Though he’d foregone wearing a jacket, the heat still emanating from his body prickles the back of your neck. You wanted to curl up beside it, inside it. 

“Not what I pictured you driving,” he jokes, and in the next step he’s lightly nudging your side. Glancing over, you try not to grin at the grimace that follows his words. You can’t tell if he’s simply awkward at conversation or awkwardly flirting—either or would be equally endearing. 

“Oh yeah?” you nudge him back to assuage any doubts, feeling just how sturdy he is in comparison. “And what do you drive? Something gaudy, maybe one of those ridiculously big off road cars?” 

You count it as a victory to hear him laugh. “Not quite,” he murmurs, tilting to meet your eyes. Suddenly, the lamplight's eerie glow evolves into something atmospheric. Intimate. The two of you have noticeably slowed your pace, reluctant for the moment to end. 

“Got my old man’s 1970’s Datsun secondhand. Can barely squeeze my knees in”. 

A vintage, you note. Arriving at the bumper of your own car, you run an idle hand over the hood as you circle toward the driver's seat. All the while, you’re watching him with a grin. “Aren’t Datsun’s known for drifting?”

“Not when I’m driving they’re not,” he snorts, a distinct fondness settling into his features as he recalls a memory. “I’ve had it since I graduated. I don’t like buying anything new until what I have is beyond saving”. 

Handsome, endearing and respectful. Accountable with his money. Frugal, despite having a good income—you assume. Internally, you can’t help ticking away at the boxes. 

“That’s very responsible of you,” you push your keys, wincing at the pitched beep as the doors unlock. “I’d like to see all six feet of you squeezed into it one day”. 

“Five eleven,” he corrects, gleaming with amusement. “That a dealbreaker?”

“Honest with his money and his height. You really are an anomaly”.

His smile shifts, slightly wry as he takes another step forward and replies, “Thank you”. 

The inside of your cheek is tender between your teeth as you observe him for a drawn out moment, before finally pulling the car door open and throwing your backpack onto the passenger seat. “Thank you,” it clicks, and the ugly charm hanging from your rear view mirror lights up, “for walking me over. I really do appreciate it”. 

“You’re sure tonight hasn’t scared you off?”

“I’m sure. I promise to leave a positive review,” you continue to lean against the open door frame without climbing in, still lingering, still wanting to talk to him. “Spacious, clean equipment, good music… oh, also comes with your own personal white knight—”

He barks a laugh, quickly holding his fist against his mouth to muffle the abrupt sound. The swell of his cheeks are lifted and pink when he uncovers his face, just like the tips of his ears, eyes squinted yet bright under the dim lights. “Maybe don’t add that last part. People might get the wrong idea”. 

“And what’s that?” 

The tension gently shifts as his gaze meets yours, breathing hitched in your throat under his boyish grin. “They might start to think I’d do this for everyone,” he says. 

You shift forward slightly with the urge to touch him, like your body was drawn to him instinctively. His hand comes down onto the top of the car door, right beside your own, his heat stark against your skin. It was purposeful, if not cautious. Maybe you shouldn’t be so easily swayed by a handsome smile and common decency, but you trusted the feeling in your gut. 

“Somehow I think you would do this for everyone,” you swallow, extending your little finger to meet his knuckle, “you seem like a good guy, Iwaizumi”. 

“That…” he clears his throat. Your abrupt sincerity seems to have thrown him off kilter, obvious about his avoidance of your gaze in favour of staring at the place where hands meet. Your heart stutters when he presses into your cautious touch. 

And then, followed by a sharp inhale, Hajime is stepping away to maintain a respectful distance from you, fist clenched against his sternum. “Good. That’s good”. 

“Yeah,” you give him what you hope is a reassuring smile, “I should get home”. 

The tension dissipates and he mirrors your expression, at ease again. One foot in the car and bending, Hajime’s eyes follow as you settle into the driver's seat. He ducks around the door, “I’ll see you later, then?” 

“You will,” the engine slowly begins to hum once you twist your key into the ignition. Happy with your answer, Hajime closes the door for you and leaves two departing thuds to the roof of your car. 

Glancing through the windshield towards the gym’s entrance, a final thought crosses your mind. Rolling down the window as you pull away, you call out to him, “Make sure to get back quick, before Hanamaki really does start texting your mum”. 

He breaks out into a jog, and you can't help but laugh.

[navarice]

Each character in the spyfam has their strengths and weaknesses, but we never talk about how their weaknesses just makes sense for each of their personalities.

Anya, an esper, can read the thoughts and intentions of anyone around her. Although she struggles with understanding and processing this information (she is only five after all), she still possesses high enough intelligence to formulate plans and situations in reaction to the information given to her that actually work. Her weakness, on the other hand, is her attachment to families that lead her to outlandish and dangerous situations. Her particular attachment to Loid stems from her childhood abandonment and consequent governmental experimentation. Anya is aware she is only valuable because she has her gift, but she doesn’t share this with Loid in the fear that he will leave her, just as all the parental figures before him did.

Yor, as an assassin, is very powerful and through. Her physical prowess and keen awareness for people’s emotions help her at her job greatly. Her strong sense of justice and loyalty is what gets her to complete her commissions in scary accuracy. She also shows the same level of commitment to be a traditional housewife (that schoolmaster’s words cut deep). However, her biggest flaw is that blind sense of loyalty she has towards Yuri, Loid, and Anya. As the sole caretaker of a young boy when she was a young girl herself, it makes sense that she would develop a complex for taking care of others to the best of her abilities. However, she has no perception of her own limits, which can be dangerous for Anya and Loid if situations stem out of control.

Loid, perfect in any role he needs to be in, is a man who’s potential is limitless. Franky and his other spy comrades all know he is a man who can get any job done. Cold, ruthless, man of a thousand faces. His blindsight, strangely, became this identity he built that he should be ready to discard at a moment’s notice. It can be argued that many spies become too immersed in their role, however we have been told that Twilight is unique compared to other spies because of his ability to separate himself from his missions. I bet no one, not even Twilight himself, expected to play a role that suits his most authentic self, to the point where the line between him and his missions blur. His personal weakness…is himself. Or more accurately what he truly desires. He wants his friends and family to live safe and carefree lives, and he would to anything to ensure that happens. Most importantly, he wants the gilded version of peace he is living in right now. Taking his child to school, going to work as an upstanding citizen, and having a wife who’s morals and personality aligns with his. After so long of war torn streets and violent struggles to survive, he wants a home to come back to every night.

The common denominator between the three of them is family. They all would go through insane lengths for each other because circumstances lined each of them together perfectly. They fight for normalcy and steadiness. A life without unwanted surprises. This is not only a character weakness, but also an unchecked flaw into each of their goals as well. What will Twilight do when he is forced to choose between Operation Strix and his pretend family? What will Anya do when her secret is revealed, or if her birth family shows up in the picture in some way? What will Yor do when she is also forced to choose between her role as an assassin and protecting her loved ones? What matters more: the safety of the world or this small eccentric chosen family the three of them built together?

[fanficsandfluff]

Tickletober 2022 - Day 5: Punishment

A/N: Thank you to @softaneasy who requested this one. Truthfully, I do not ship Stony, nor do I like writing the character of Steve Rogers. And I was initially gonna turn this prompt down. But the writing angel/demon living inside me told me to go outside my comfort zone for this Tickletober. So here we are!

Fandom: Marvel Cinematic Universe

Characters: Steve Rogers, Tony Stark

Tony had been acting a bit too snarky at the team meetings nowadays. At first, the crew chalked it up to a bad hair day or waking up on the wrong side of the bed. But after it persisted for three or four meetings, it was clear there was something larger looming over the billionaire philanthropist.

Steve approached Tony after the fifth team meeting where he sent everyone off scoffing, particular Natasha this time. Normally unphased by Tony's words, this meeting's aim had been directed mostly at her.

"Hey," Steve stopped Tony from exiting and they were the only two left in the room, "Do I have to ask?"

"Maybe you do, cap. Be a little more specific."

"Why are you a raving asshole lately?"

The language took Tony by surprise and actually got a grin out of him, "Productivity has been well below average, trying to boost morale by tearing everyone down first, so they can eventually rise together to fight against the stigma. Isn't that was leadership is all about?"

"No, not at all, actually."

"Well, to each their own," Tony then attempted to walk out past Steve, but Captain America gripped onto Tony's shoulder after he passed him and got close enough to the door.

"Tony," Steve sighed, "I know there's more going on here. I'm willing to forgive it all if you just act a little nicer from here on out, hm?"

"We'll see, Rogers," Tony left the room this time, whistling to himself. Steve narrowed his eyes and watched him walk down the hallway, "I'll give you one more chance, Stark."

"And I'll be eagerly awaiting the consequences post said chance," Tony had spun around to deliver his parting remarks and walked backwards for a few paces before turning down a corner.

And another meeting came and went, no changes from Iron Man. This time his target was poor Bruce Banner. Steve bided his time as everyone left the room and even waited for Tony to leave, knowing he was headed for his lab. Tony tended to work on a routine nowadays, so it was easy to track him.

The sliding doors to the lab whooshed open for Steve after he made it downstairs.

"Office hours aren't until tomorrow, sport," Tony chided, readying a pair of goggles and gloves for the work he was about to set out on.

"Oh, I'll be quick. Here to follow up on a threat," Steve was approaching Tony by his work station.

"Threat?" Tony turned around and eyed Steve, "My Captain America doesn't threaten, he moreso saves and leads and throws his little dinner plate around. Oh! You mean about the--"

"Yeah, your punishment, let's call it," Steve was now sporting a grin. The silence between the two hung in the air a few beats too long, and it was long enough for Tony's own smug look to be wiped from his face.

"Wait--" was the only thing he could get out before Steve pinned him against his own work table, high enough for the edge of the table to be caught in the small of Tony's back.

"Jesus, cap, at least take me out to dinner fi-hirst," an unwanted giggle slipped its way out of Tony's lips when he felt thick fingers prodding into his ribs.

"Do you ever stop talking?" Steve asked Tony, wanting to sound exasperated but it mostly came out teasing, with a small smile still on his face. His fingers dug right in, not playing games. This was a punishment, after all, for Tony's constant being a dick to everyone.

Tony yelped and he wanted to shrink down to the floor but Steve's strength and superior girth kept Tony upright. He laughed against his will and it was loud laughter because god dammit Steve knew how to tickle.

"Fuhucking stop!" Tony begged, his hands tightening onto Steve's wrists but was unable to stop their path. Steve worked his hands down until the thumbs dug into the crevices of Tony's hips, mostly exposed due to his low-rise pants. Tony screamed and he did manage to collapse halfway, so Steve's hands had to stop tickling him there, thank god. But now Steve pulled one of Tony's arms up, easy enough since the billionaire hadn't let go of his wrist yet, and pinned that hand to the table.

"N-nno," Tony protested, "No, Rogers, don't. Don't do it."

"Don't do what? Get under here?" he fluttered the fingers of his free hand under Tony's arm, which was now wide open.

"SHIHIhiiiit! You bastard!" Tony growled, stomping his foot on the floor, "Lemme go! Let me go right now!"

"You're in no position to be making threats now, Stark," Steve smirked and he used all the force of his fingertips to dig in and around Tony's armpit, partially exposed to the elements because of the very short sleeve shirt Tony was wearing. Not quite a tank top, but tight enough to leave a space for skin-to-skin touches.

Tony laughed, throwing his head back as his other hand came up to try and ward off Steve's fingers. But he was laughing so hard his coordination was off.

"I'm gonna get you to apologize to everyone," Steve spoke about serious matters as if he wasn't literally tickling his friend and coworker to near death, "And you're not gonna take out whatever shit you got going on on the team."

"OkAY! OKAY!" Tony agreed immediately.

Steve rose a brow and he smirked, "I didn't think you'd cave that quickly. When am I supposed to deliver my big speech?" he pulled Tony until he was standing again and he now rested both his hands on either side of Tony's stomach.

"Plehehease no," Tony giggled and it was almost cute. Hands were at Steve's wrists once more, waiting for the inevitable.

"I have to. This isn't a real punishment if I don't get the worst spot on you," Steve smiled once more, a bigger, brighter one this time. And both hands wreaked havoc on Tony's belly. One hand vibrated its claw shape right in the middle and the other slipped under said tight shirt that had already risen up and was scratching at the tender skin across Tony's waistband.

Now Tony really did scream. His laughter rung out loud and clear and his arms couldn't do a thing. He tried hunching forward, falling to the floor, considered head-butting Steve for a hot second there, but nothing came to fruition. Tony laughed so hard he snorted as Steve's fingers finally lifted off his very ticklish torso.

"Gohohod," Tony snorted again and he hated it, "You're even more of an asshole than me, old man," he was breathing heavily, wiping sweat from his brow. He watched as Steve was walking out of his lab.

"Maybe you just needed a little lightening of your spirits," Steve said in return and before he got in the elevator to go back upstairs, he added, "I hope you've learned your lesson."

Tony gave Steve a thumbs up followed by a very pronounced middle finger. Steve laughed as the elevator doors closed and Tony huffed out a chuckle. Maybe he did need that. Hm, tickle punishment works. Who knew?

[nastybuckybarnes]

All the King’s Men  -  Five

Pairing: Alpha!King!Bucky X Omega!Reader

Summary: Your father always said that if it weren’t for your presentation, he’d think you were an Alpha. There’s a reason for that. Growing up in a world where Omegas are treated like garbage, you’ve fought for the respect that you have. Until you’re sold off to an old King desperate for a bride. But you will not lay down and present for your new husband. No, you will fight back.

Warnings: Langauge, Angst, dark themes, injuries, 

Word Count: 2.2K 

A/n: Hello and welcome!! Here we go, y’all! Enjoy! I love you all very much And I hope you have an amazing day/night! 

!!DO NOT COPY/TRANSLATE/REPOST MY WORK!!

~*~

“My lady, I mean no disrespect but I must ask, we have been walking for ages... do you know where it is you are leading us?”

Wanda’s voice sounds tired and strained, and for a moment you feel bad for bringing her on such a journey. But abandoning her at the Palace with that Monster would surely be a fate worse than death.

“You cannot know where you are nor where you are going when finding someone who does not wish to be found,” you explain, stepping over a fallen tree and holding your skirts up around your knees to prevent them from catching on any sharp objects littering the forest floor.

You’ve been walking for several hours. The sun has set and risen and set again, and you’ve stopped only a handful of times.

Your rations are running low and you are tired, but you cannot stop. It will be only hours until a search party is sent for you, and you’d rather not think of the consequences that will await if they find you.

“You speak wise words for a woman who is so far from safety.”

The voice startles the two of you and you freeze, eyes darting to the figure as they step out around a tree.

“You have travelled a great distance and at great cost. You have abandoned everything in search for someone whom you cannot find,” the woman muses, her black hair falling around her waist in curly billows.

“There are whispers of a woman who resides in these forests, one who works with the Gods. It is said... she can break bonds,” you say after a moment, taking a slow step towards the sorceress.

She only chuckles and shakes her head, “an old spinners tale, surely. A bond is a permanent thing, nobody would be so foolish as to try and remove it.” Though her words are said with certainty, her eyes say the opposite.

“They say the woman helps those who suffer from unwanted bonds. She saves the lives of those who would be killed by their bonds.”

Her brows draw together and she takes a step toward you, eyeing you and Wanda skeptically.

“You have come in service of whom?” She finally asks, and you let out a sigh of relief.

She’s real. She can help.

“Myself. Wanda has joined me in protection,” you explain.

“What is your presentation?” The rapid firing of questions has you a little on edge, but you need her.

She’s your only hope of getting rid of the curse on your neck.

“Omega.”

Her eyes narrow and she stops in front of you, eyeing the mark on your neck.

“Is your Alpha dead?” The way she asks it with such bluntness makes you bristle the tiniest bit.

“I wish he were.”

She quirks her brows at that and you huff out a sigh.

“My Alpha,” you spit his title, “mistreats me. He abuses me and dishonours our bond. I wish he were dead.”

She nods, lips pursed for a moment before a heavy sigh falls from her lips.

“Few Omegas can revive the treatment I offer, and even fewer live to tell the tale. An Omega’s bond to their Alpha is strong and near unbreakable without killing the Omega in the process. When the mate is dead and the bond, dying, it is easier.”

You raise your head and stare straight into her eyes, “I would rather die than be bonded to this Alpha.”

Wanda stiffens at your words, for she knows the truth behind them. If this sorceress cannot grant what you want, she knows you will not stop until you are freed from this bond.

“You understand that it comes at a cost. Both physical and otherwise.”

You nod your understanding, “I am more than willing to pay whatever it is you request.”

“I need payment before, not after.”

With a nod in Wanda’s direction, you pull off your necklace, a gift from your Husband on your wedding day, and hand it to the Sorceress.

She takes it and inspects it under the light of the moon, her eyes widening as she recognizes it.

“You are the Queen!”

She starts backing up and you shake your head desperately, following after her.

“Wait, please!”

She slows but doesn’t stop.

“I am coming to you, not as a queen, but as an Omega desperate to leave her Alpha. He mistreats me and I fear for my life. More than once have I been threatened by direct members of his council and I fear bringing it to his attention would only anger him further. Please, you must help me. Staying bonded to him is a fate worse than death and I would gladly take any consequences that come with this choice if it meant I am free of his hold on me.”

Her eyes dart between yours and Wanda’s before she turns and starts walking back the way she came.

You stand still, shoulders slumping forward and despair clouding over your head until the Sorceress turns and looks over her shoulder at you.

“Well, hurry up. We must get back before sunrise.”

~*~

“Where’s your pup? I heard you finally put her in her place,” Sharon muses, leaning against the doorway to the King’s office.

James gives her a harsh glare.

“You will not speak of my wife that way. You forget that she is your queen.”

Sharon grinds her teeth together but otherwise says nothing on the subject, leaving James to remember only too vividly the pain of what happened.

He was wrong.

What he did was wrong and hurtful and terrible and he’ll never forgive himself.

He needed to make a stand, to show his council that he’s still the strong King they remember him to be, but he did it incorrectly.

Sure, he asserted his dominance with them, but he disrespected you. He disrespected your bond.

As soon as his meeting was done he all but ran to your chambers to apologize and try to make it up to you. He was prepared to get on his knees and beg for forgiveness, but Natasha told him she saw you and Wanda head into the village for a walk.

He’s been waiting for your return, and as the sun rises he’s growing more worried.

His soul hurts.

It aches with the pain he inflicted upon you, upon your bond.

He needs to fix this.

He needs to find you and repair this and mend it.

But, most importantly, he needs to stop letting this Beta whisper filth into his ears.

“You have given me counsel that I have not requested nor needed, and the consequences will affect the entire Kingdom,” he finally says, rising to his feet and bringing his gaze to the Beta.

She cocks her head to the side in confusion, “do your men not respect you more?”

“Do you realize what this means? What you may have caused? If word travels to Lothiella, the King and Queen will bring their daughter back and our Marriage will be terminated. This is grounds for war, in their eyes. You could start a war over a petty squabble with my wife due to your jealousy! I could never marry you, Sharon! Surely, you realize that? You couldn’t give me the pups I need, couldn’t give my Kingdom heirs. It is done and there is nothing more that will be said on the matter.”

His face is flushed and he’s drawing in heavy breaths after his outburst, but he means every word.

Sharon stands stoically by the door, the amusement in her eyes long gone.

“You are hereby removed from my council until further notice. If I or anyone else ever catches you near my wife, you will answer to me. Now, go. Leave me.”

She takes a deep breath then bows her head and turns to leave, bumping past Steve and Natasha on her way.

“What was that about?” The redhead asks, looking after her friend as she disappears down the corridor.

“Sharon has done nothing but encourage my temper towards my Queen and now we may have to answer to Lothiella for it.”

Steve and Natasha exchange glances before looking back at the King.

“What has been done?”

James takes a deep breath and turns to the window in his office, overlooking the garden.

“It does not matter what has happened. Is there any word of my Wife’s whereabouts?”

Their silence is answer enough and tension builds on the King’s shoulders.

“Send men into the Village to look for her. Ask the locals if they have seen her or her lady in waiting. If we have no word by sundown then I fear I must write to Lothiella.”

~*~

The warmth of the bath clings to your bones and you sigh softly, the feeling heavenly after such a long trek through the forest.

“Is there any way to undo it?” Wanda asks softly, her eyes on you.

You’ve already consumed the small vial of liquid that the Sorceress offered, and now you wait for the pain that she spoke of.

“The only way to reverse the effects is to strengthen the natural bond. But when Alphas find out what their Omegas have attempted, what they planned to do to the bond, they, more often than not, kill the Omegas before the spell can.”

Wanda nods solemnly and turns her gaze back to you, beyond worried for your health.

Though you say the bond has been broken, she’s seen how the King looks at you, how he truly cares for you.

The bond is not as weak as you try to convince yourself it is, but for some reason, she thinks you know that.

Warmth spreads through your veins, from your fingertips to the crown of your head and down to your toes.

It’s comforting at first, relaxing, even. But gradually it increases in temperature and the warmth becomes a fire, burning through your body and singeing your nerves.

“It has begun,” the Sorceress whispers, moving to your side to take hold of your hand.

You dig your head into the lip of the bathtub and give her hand a squeeze, grinding your teeth together and trying desperately not to let the pain show.

Your muscles tense and a cry of pain escapes your throat as the flames burn at the bond spot on your neck, shockwaves of pain radiating from the spot.

The fire is unbearable, and soon your body is covered in sweat.

Wanda and the Sorceress transfer you from the bath to the bed, and you writhe in agony, your inner Omega howling for the pain to stop, for her Alpha to come back and make it all better.

“Is she going to be all right? Is there anything that can be done?” Wanda asks desperately, watching as you drift in and out of consciousness, the pain too much to bear.

The Sorceress huffs out a sigh and slowly shakes her head.

“The bond is too strong to be broken without taking her with it. All we can do now is try our best to keep her comfortable.”

She rises to her feet and places a gentle hand on Wanda’s shoulder, “I am sorry. I cannot stay any longer, for my own protection. There is food and water here, enough to last a full moon cycle. After that, you will need to find provisions for yourself.”

Wanda nods, watching as the Sorceress gathers her belongings then leaves without another word.

You cry out softly in your sleep and Wanda feels a piece of her heart break.

The amount of pain you’re in is palpable, and she refuses to sit around and do nothing about it.

~*~

James jolts upright at his desk, hand clamping onto his neck as fire spreads from the spot.

“James?”

He shakes his head at Steve, squeezing his eyes shut at the intensity of the pain.

His eyes glow for a moment before returning to their regular steely blue colour.

“Where is she? My Omega?” He growls the question, Alpha instincts on red alert at the pain in his neck, the pain that must be coming from the bond, from you.

“Nobody has heard anything since the messenger was sent to Lothiella. We’re still searching the surrounding forest, but-”

James pushes himself to his feet and shakes his head angrily, dropping his hand and taking deep breaths through the pain.

“Gather my household guard and have them ready to ride. We find her and we do it now.”

“Where do you plan on looking? How do you plan on finding her when half of your men are already scouring every inch of the Kingdom?”

He shakes his head at Steve and growls, “she is hurt, in danger. She needs me. I can feel it. Someone is hurting her and I need to find her.”

Steve huffs out a sigh but bows his head, following his King and ready to search for you.

[thescreaminghat]

thoughts about link click and its great characters (major spoilers)

I think what I really like about Link Click is the emotional maturity of its characters. Granted, our protags are all adults, and so we expect them to react to serious situations with more emotional intelligence than a child or teenager (even if they are goofy in other circumstances), but I really liked how Cheng Xiaoshi and Lu Guang never truly blamed each other for their actions. If this were a more generic/trope-y story with teenagers as the protags, we would probably see the two split and monologue dramatically about their ideologies and how the other is wrong (Lu Guang for focusing too much on the “big picture” of events, and Cheng Xiaoshi for being too emotionally invested in each client’s life). But besides Cheng Xiaoshi’s (justified) outburst of pain and anger after what he experienced from eps 3-5, he never blames Lu Guang for trying to be neutral, because he understands deep down that Lu Guang is right to a degree, and that they can’t fundamentally shift the past if they want the world to exist as it is now. Cheng Xiaoshi is also responsible enough to see and acknowledge the negative consequences of taking independent action from Lu Guang’s instructions while in the photos. He never uses the differences between him and Lu Guang to create a rift between them, because he trusts Lu Guang, has a deep friendship with him and Qiao Ling during a period of his life when he had no one else, and knows that Lu Guang is ultimately looking out for his (Cheng Xiaoshi’s) safety. There’s no drama and misunderstanding for the sake of drama and misunderstanding, because they have the same goal of helping their clients and friends to the fullest degree possible. 

Additionally, Lu Guang, despite looking like the trope of “cold/detached/cruel white-haired boi who is juxtaposed with his emotional dark-haired counterpart,” is very much empathetic and driven by his emotions himself. When Xu Shanshan goes missing, he immediately takes the lead to find her, because he knows Cheng Xiaoshi is in a terrible emotional state and doesn’t want him to get hurt. Lu Guang isn’t above being silly and enjoying Cheng Xiaoshi’s and Qiao Ling’s company. He always tries to protect Cheng Xiaoshi and Qiao Ling, just like Cheng Xiaoshi always tries to protect everyone he meets. And his reserved nature seems to stem from loneliness and the burden of seeing the inevitability of outcomes in the clients’ photos rather than “edginess.” I think a nice example illustrating his personality is in the chibi specials: 

Even though it’s a silly episode, like all the chibi specials, this is a nice microcosm of all the stress that Lu Guang needs to take on whenever he looks into a photo. He needs to be the calm one who guides Cheng Xiaoshi through the photos, because he knows Cheng Xiaoshi will be experiencing all of the unwanted turmoil of whomever he possesses. Even when he sees the misery of others, Lu Guang has to push that aside in order to ensure that he can at least save one person (the client or whomever he knows can be saved within the photo’s timeline). And considering how quiet he is by nature, Lu Guang has likely kept this burden all to himself. Yet Lu Guang never turns his back to helping someone when it is possible for him to do so.

That is to say, I fucking love Link Click and its wonderful characters - the writers, VAs, animators, etc. really knew what they were doing and they honestly deserve so much more credit for this show

[a-lady-of-pseudony]

My bridgerton addiction had come back and I feel the need to share my opinion, despite it being unnecessary or unwanted lels hahaha.

But do allow me of the privilege to speak for I had kept whatever this is inside of me for weeks now.

Penelope by far, had been discriminated and been subjected of the scrutiny of some, for the choices she have made and the articles she had chose to release as lady whistledown. And pardon me if I say I find this hatred quite unnecessary, as a show watcher since season 1 and a book fan as well, I can say that whatever Penelope does isn't jealousy, that whatever it is that she had chosen to write isn't written to discriminate but rather to point out the flaw that she thinks she sees. And that one must remember that whatever she writes wasn't actually originally from her but from the wagging tongue of the ton themselves (except for some bits that she revealed to save some people ofc) , I mean yeah, she's the one who published such scandal but her scandal is ofc taken from the rumors she heard among the ton, that what she chooses to say is merely her opinions on the topics she had heard, hence it is called a scandal sheet not a news paper. Another thing is her revelation and articles about certain people namely; Marina, Colin, and Eloise. First of Marina and Colin, I have read and constantly heard so many foul words said because of this issue, and so allow me to explain my take on this end, Penelope had begged Marina, take note BEGGED Marina not to include Colin in her plans, and when this fails, she turned to Colin to warn him, which bad for him chooses not to believe her words, it is then that she decided to release and write that article about the pregnancy. Listen here people, check this out she didn't say anything about him calling on Marina, instead she just watched them from the corners with jealous eyes, and for those who claims that she did it for herself, why would she do that? If you notice Pen is Marina's cousin, Marina debuted under the featherington name which would mean that whatever fate marina had planned affects her prospects and fate as well, revealing Marina as a liar would result negatively to her family (as you have ofc seen). What she did isn't selfishness, but rather the opposite as it put her in trouble, she is merely saving a friend, who doesn't deserve to be deceived to take care of another man's children without his knowledge. Next of is Eloise, again and again, I will tell you that Eloise is the one at fault, she chose to put herself in situation that would bring her repercussions. Eloise is the one who chose to indulge herself in identifying lady whistledown's identity, and again, as always Penelope had warned her more than once that what she does will put her in danger. But no Eloise just had to push her way in because she is stubborn as that, if only Eloise listened from the very beginning that she shall not indulge herself in such things anymore, she wouldn't have met theo, who lead Eloise to become the Queen's prime suspect as Lady whistledown. I know that some would say that Penelope could just reveal herself, ofc she can, but do you honestly think that the queen would believe her? Hell no, the queen would only think of her revelation as a way of saving Eloise's reputation (which she explained, *scene with madame delacroix*), in which at that time would only result to bigger consequences (given the scandal between sharma and bridgerton).

What Penelope does isn't something we could say morally right, but something that the situation requires, she maybe harsh and cruel, but that is the point, honesty is often cruel as it is reflected by the show. If you wanted to blame someone, it is not Penelope but the characters who chose to do that to themselves.

Had Marina, Colin, and Eloise, chose to listen to what Penelope had said bigger consequences should have been prevented.

And as I end my commentary, I again beg of you that I want no hate, that I merely offer my opinion on such topic. That is all, thank you!

Pardon the crooked english and improper grammar, I am quite sleepy while writing this commentary.

[nachosforfree]

me on a website: me period long

the website: well, as all we beautiful small pretty women know, the period is a time in a girly girls feminine life where Her vagirlna is bleeding lots of sweet ladylike blood, but sometimes being a lady girl woman chick female girl can lead to unwanted consequences,

[versadies]

GENSHIN CHARACTERS IN SHARED APARTMENT AU (hc)

sypnosis: in which you move in to an apartment and meet strange neighbors and roommates. an au where genshin characters are living in the same apartment (college!au w/ gn!reader)

characters: diluc, kaeya, albedo, venti, zhongli, childe, scaramouche, xiao, ganyu, jean, and beidou (some are platonic depending on how you want to see it).

warning/s: mentions of death, mentions of drugs, parties, mentions of trauma, mentions of alcohol

penpal: i decided to finish this fic that’s been sitting around in my drafts for a very long time while trying to escape writer’s block for my other fics. enjoy!

note: some character hc here are very short due to how you don’t know much about them (i might make a part 2 of where you get closer to them and meet more neighbors).

DILUC

-> the neighbor that you go grocery shopping with together. he’s a man whose father is the ceo of one of the most famous wine business, so the fact that he lives in an apartment with a bunch of weirdos is surprising to you. then again, this apartment is surrounded by many colleges.

-> the two of you first encountered during your first grocery shopping from the apartment. you managed to grab the same item as him and after seeing each other many times in the store, you both decided to do grocery shopping together.

-> he’s one of the responsible people in the flat who who can shop without being distracted and not go home without the actual food.

-> he mostly goes with you because he doesn’t want you to have a hard time in carrying all those heavy bags on your own and partially because he uses this chance to hang out with you.

-> grocery shopping with him tends to get bothersome, especially when his fangirls in his college often come up to him and try to converse him. as much as diluc doesn’t mind his fans, he does get annoyed from how they’re bothering his time with you and his privacy.

-> by the time the two of you went back to your apartment, he’ll immediately offer in helping you unpack and arrange the things you bought— only to be dragged outside by your roommates because they thought he’s a staff who’s just helping you bring your grocery bags or because

KAEYA

-> the flirty neighbor who asks you to teach him how to cook. he’s diluc’s roommate that always to flirt with you with every opportunity he gets and is quite known for bringing ladies to his room at night.

-> the two of you met thanks to your cooking. he knocked on your flat one day and asked what meal you’re cooking, which leads you to teaching kaeya how to cook some of your best recipes.

-> every week he’d barge into your flat and ask to teach him some different recipes to “impress the ladies.”

-> with how he cooks, you sometimes wonder how the hell the man is still alive.

-> what you didn’t know is that kaeya already knows how to cook these recipes and just acted like he didn’t for the sake of hanging out with you. he was supposed to give you a pick up line when he first met you— but you interrupted him and is completely convinced that he doesn’t know how to cook properly.

-> diluc, venti, and albedo are the only ones who knows about him knowing how to cook, but didn’t tell you due to bribery and threats from the man himself.

-> he’s impressed that you didn’t notice how he stopped bringing ladies to the apartment whenever he goes to parties ever since he hung out with you.

-> although he’s aware that this secret can lead to unwanted consequences; it won’t stop him from coming up to your unit and ask for more lessons.

ALBEDO

-> the roommate who often wakes you up. he’s one of the first roommates to move in and often stays in his room to do only god knows what, so the only time you see him is when you wake up.

-> no, i don’t mean by “waking up next to him” i mean by “waking up by him because he woke up from your loudass alarm and you slept through it.”

-> although it was embarrassing to always be woken up by your distant roommate, he always reassures you that he doesn’t mind since he needed to wake up early.

-> he doesn’t go to his school not until during lunch, whereas he’ll immediately rushes outside and go to his school so he’s free in the morning (unless he decides to start doing experiments for a project).

-> he finds hanging out with you calming. he really appreciates how you actually listen to his ranting on his experiments and not find it boring.

-> he also appreciates how you’d make coffee for him just the way he likes it. he’s also willing to make a drink for you and eat breakfast with you.

-> whenever kaeya visits your unit, he’ll watch you two alongside venti while sketching landscapes or flowers. there’s one sketch where he drew you and kaeya cooking and gave it to the man, who happily took it and went to his unit (probably to brag in front of diluc).

-> speaking of sketches, your shared refrigerator is full of sketches made by albedo. the sketches are just you and everyone in the unit such as a sketch of you making coffee, a sketch of beidou explaining something during dinner, a sketch of venti and xiao watching, etc.

-> his sketches are definitely something to praise for.

-> albedo is also the one who’d sleepily drag diluc out before the red haired man could ask to help you out, not knowing that the person albedo’s dragging is a future ceo of a popular wine company that everyone knows of.

VENTI

-> the drunk roommate who never stops playing his instrument. he’s the newest addition to your chaotic unit and the most mischievous.

-> you’d be in denial if you said venti sucks at playing the ukulele. it’s kinda relaxing to hear your roommate playing the ukulele every day; he’s basically the radio of your unit.

-> the only times he doesn’t play are when he’s either busy partying all night in a penthouse that’s up ahead from your floor, when he’s asleep, or if he’s doing something else that makes him distracted from playing his ukulele.

-> when it comes to parties, he’d often go home at a late hour and would jump to the couch nearby, immediately passing out. however when he takes a little longer than he usually does, you immediately contact your other neighbor to fetch venti, who’d immediately comply and go up to the penthouse.

-> sometimes, venti would be with you in the morning (if he didn’t actually drink the other night) while you’re teaching kaeya how to make some food. of course, he’d tease you two every now and then much to kaeya’s amusement (they’re practically best friends at this point).

-> the person he loves to tease is definitely diluc much to your embarrassment. whenever venti manages to caught diluc about to ask you if you need help with the grocery, he’ll immediately joke about diluc looking like he’s about to ask you on a date. and no, venti won’t stop until diluc goes out from your place in embarrassment.

-> did i mention that he’ll definitely be chaotic if beidou is around? hide every single alcohol that exists in your unit whenever those two are hanging out.

-> speaking of chaotic, venti has a bird who is named as “stormterror.” the name was hilarious for a bird and sometimes, you’d catch venti talking to it fondly as if the bird is his best friend.

-> you also noticed how he sadly stares at a picture of someone who looks a lot like him. you concluded that the person is his twin who probably passed away.

CHILDE

-> the rich guy that often parties in his unit. trust me when i say that he’s the person who lives in the fancy penthouse of your apartment. you’d expect diluc ragnvindr to be the one to live there— but no, it’s a guy who always throws parties with every chance he gets.

-> although he mostly hangs out with... questionable people who lives in the apartment that you really don’t want to spend with, he’s surprisingly a nice guy. the two of you actually met thanks to zhongli and after lifting a misunderstanding, childe started taking a liking to you.

-> he doesn’t visit often given that he’s a “busy” person with parties and his part-time job. the only times when you two hang out are when he sneaks into your unit on weekends when he’s free or when he barges into zhongli’s unit while you’re drinking with the man— or when you see him in the cafe that’s near to your place.

-> and yes, he does invite you to his penthouse every time he sees you. should you refuse, he won’t try to force you and always lets you know that there’s always a room for you to party.

-> however, if you accept— he’ll definitely make sure to let you have a really good time in his party. he’s actually an amazing host for women since he always keeps an eye of them in case some creep decided to drug their drinks or do something bad to them.

-> his values on family is something to be admired. he would constantly talk about them with a fond look on his face; you can tell that he wants to go back to his homeland, snezhnaya.

ZHONGLI

-> the gentleman who’s in the same college as you. given that the man is in his last year, you two often see each other by the bus stop to go home so whenever you go back to your apartment, he’s with you.

-> he’s a peculiar guy, you have to admit. whenever you two go home, he’d often talk about a lot of things— mainly everything that reminds him of something that makes him go to a monologue about it. it’s almost as if he’s an elderly who reminisces “the good ol’ days”.

-> you didn’t mind his rantings; in fact, his voice often soothes you and makes you wanna sleep— but most of the time you listened to what he has to say which he appreciates it.

-> he’s basically the most polite person you’ve ever met, with him opening doors for you, making sure you go back to your unit safely, etc.

-> sometimes if you two don’t have anything to do, he’d definitely ask you if you want to have a drink with him. he’s probably one of the best people to have a conversation with since you can basically talk about anything.

-> did i mention that he has a chubby cat named azhdaha? the things you’d do just to pet his chonky cat.

-> you were very surprised when zhongli first introduced you to the cat. you would be lying if you said it wasn’t cute with how the man always interacts with azhdaha as if it’s a person.

-> when childe first met you, he actually thought you were zhongli’s spouse because of how he always sees you two going inside zhongli’s unit together. when you explained childe about the situation, that’s when you two started getting along.

-> every now and then whilst you and zhongli have a drinking session, childe would barge into his unit (you still have no idea how the man knows zhongli’s password) and join in for a chat. sometimes, if they’re willing; you can help each other out in studying for finals.

-> you also noticed how zhongli often stares at a certain picture of a woman. when you asked who she was, you learned that it was his childhood best friend who passed away from a car accident.

-> after knowing that fact, you realized how he’s been through a lot.

-> he’s one of the people you respect and admire the most.

XIAO

-> the loud neighbor who plays dubstep music at 3 am in the morning. he’s zhongli’s roommate and you are astounded by how the man didn’t wake up from xiao’s music blaring in the unit in the middle of the night.

-> you met him when you first visited zhongli’s unit at night because you thought he was the one who’s making the noise— it wasn’t until you saw another young man that you concluded that zhongli isn’t the one who’s playing dubstep in the morning.

-> after that, you started seeing the man in your unit during summer.

-> in your defense, you don’t see him in your unit much since you’re either inside your room studying or in college. you were surprised that he’s best friends with venti of all people.

-> xiao’s one of the people you aren’t close with but is good friends with you thanks to venti.

-> you learned from venti that xiao usually plays such loud music very late because the young man always have nightmares and didn’t want to think about it afterwards. (the loud music often helps him not think).

-> you also learned that zhongli basically took him under his wing from xiao’s cruel guardian back when zhongli just turned 18, making you respect your neighbor even more.

-> whenever you see xiao in your unit, he’s always with venti doing god knows what. sometimes when you visit venti’s room to give him some food you made, you’d either see venti playing his ukulele while xiao lays down on the bed in relaxation, or when they’re binge-watching shows together.

-> xiao is also the one who’d take venti back to your unit from childe’s parties and would make sure to put a glass of water beside venti’s bed before leaving quietly.

-> you find his humor funny too. whenever you join in their bing-watch sessions, you often find yourself trying not to laugh at xiao’s deadpanned comments.

SCARAMOUCHE

-> the neighbor who always argues with his roommate. you absolutely get annoyed with the noisy neighbor— especially since he always argues with a woman upstairs from your bedroom. you didn’t bother confronting the man upstairs due to how it might make things worse.

-> however, you did not expect the angry man to be the same man who always smiles at you when you greet him every time you see him.

-> when you forced yourself to go upstairs and confront the noisy people, you were very surprised to see scaramouche, who was looking at you with a grumpy look on his face.

-> you always put cancelling-noise headphones on before going to your room at night because holy hell when does he and the woman stop arguing?

-> when you complained childe about this, he immediately laughed. “good to know that you met my coworker’s true colors.”

-> you often wondered how the hell childe hasn’t lost his sanity yet.

-> although scaramouche is basically the only person who you don’t talk to the most in the apartment, he’s kind of.. relatable.

-> the two of you surprisingly bonded when you found out how much you two hate the landlord and his unreasonable rents.

-> you also found out that the woman he’s roommates with is la signora; who has been staying in the apartment for a while because of her job that requires her to stay in the city and is just being an annoyance to him.

-> you noticed that every time you see the man ever since you met him, he’s always arguing with someone. specifically an astrologist lady who you haven’t seen much.

BEIDOU

-> the roommate who always goes out to the point where it doesn’t feel like she lives here. she’s definitely one of the most mysterious people in the building— with no information you know about the woman’s private life.

-> she’s the only person who isn’t a college student in the unit. you, venti, and albedo have no idea about what her occupation is— but whatever it is, you know it has something to do with her going abroad by a boat.

-> she usually resides in the unit during summer and often drinks alcohol. much to albedo’s irritation, she and venti would be chaotic together and can be heard laughing together over something (you and albedo would make sure there is no alcohol in the unit just to be safe).

-> beidou is also a very admirable person. she’s the strongest one and is always happy to help you or your other roommates out in case you need to carry something. if she’s not busy enough, then she’ll gladly go grocery shopping with you just to buy alcohol and help you out with the groceries (much to diluc’s dismay).

-> she’s also an incredible chef. she always makes sure to cook the ones you, albedo, and venti would like and would laugh whenever you compliment her cooking.

-> sometimes when you four managed to eat with together during dinner or lunch, she’ll definitely explain stories about her trips— specifically whenever she’s riding a boat.

-> did i mention that she always goes to the balcony of your unit late at night just to stare at the stars? you would be lying if you said you didn’t get scared when you first saw her by the balcony whenever you go out from your room late at night to drink some water. most of the time, you left her alone and didn’t want to bother her.

-> there was one time when venti told you about a theory that beidou always goes abroad just to see her secret lover. when you asked him what made him think about it, venti explained how he overheard her talking to someone and calls them “babe.”

-> you noticed how she and venti are very close due to their love for alcohol and music. sometimes if they’re wild enough, they’d do a karaoke night and sing their lungs out (you were surprised that no one visited your unit to complain).

-> now that i think about it, she’s basically the mom of the unit.

JEAN

-> the nice neighbor who always greets you whenever you two see each other.

-> unlike most people in the building, jean is a young teacher who teaches in a kindergarten nearby. she often can be seen walking down the hallway to go to a librarian who also lives in the apartment so whenever you see her, she won’t hesitate to greet you.

-> you don’t know much about the teacher; but from what you’ve heard from her roommate, jean is definitely someone who can be a role model.

-> she’s very good with kids. when albedo’s sister, klee, visited the apartment— she always visits jean’s unit afterwards just to show her cute drawings.

-> sometimes whenever you’re in the bus, you could overhear children saying something about “miss jean.”

GANYU

-> the super nice neighbor who always gives you and your roommates her sweets.

-> she’s absolutely one of the sweetest ladies you’ve ever met. when you first moved in, she was the first one to visit the unit for you.

-> her baked sweets are amazing— especially her cupcakes that has cute designs. you would get excited with venti whenever you see her with a packed container that definitely has something amazing.

-> she bakes because she finds it therapeutic— and can get carried away from the amount of pastries she makes to the point where she has to visit every unit that has people she knows to give them something to eat.

-> you find it cute with how the woman would be flustered whenever you compliment her delicious pastries.

-> sometimes, you’d let her stay in your unit to have a small conversation whilst you and venti are eating. you learned that she stays with a roommate who lets her stay with him and a kid that he’s taking care of and that he’s an amazing doctor.

-> you were touched about how she suggested that in case you or your roommates get seriously injured, her unit is always open.

-> you learned from xiao about how she sometimes forget to eat or not take care of herself because of how busy she is— so you decided to visit her unit weekly during summer with dishes you made with kaeya, always checking up on her if she’s okay.

ok just to clear things up; here are the positions of where the others reside (other than scaramouche, ganyu and childe)

[quirklessidiot]

title : minazuki [5:stray cat] pairing : gojo satoru x f!y/n Genre: angst, arranged-marriage au, mystery/thriller, romance, mature, enemies-to-lovers-ish, and very slow burn (canon compliant-ish for ch-0 to the anime)

Summary: In which Y/N L/N is placed under a union she has no choice but to partake for the sake of her survival.

Warnings: language, kind of manipulative!y/n, mentions of death, manga spoilers, sleeping problems, mild mentions of cannibalism (brief), unfair system (?), satoru has a weird moment (idk what to call it) Notes: still amazed by how people are still curious about this story but ily all sm hehe thanks for the support kith kith! (not beta’d as always gudbye)

series masterlist || taglist closed ||

Chapter summary A tidal shift, one that’ll affect you. Meanwhile, you and Satoru are meeting a bit too frequently that he can’t seem to turn away as much as before.

You hadn’t heard from Megumi and Satoru in two days.

Although you’re sure that Satoru is fine, god knows it would take more than a lost finger to kill him, you were more worried for Megumi who hadn’t even answered your call nor texted you. The six-eyed shaman came in time, didn’t he? Whatever had happened with the lost finger wasn’t probably as drastic as you thought it would be, right? You stare at your plate for a fleeting moment, the vegetables, rice, and meat looking unappetizing since agonizing thoughts about the young boy and how he was fairing started to pile up. 

It also didn’t help that this was something that involved Sukuna Ryomen, a person that was apparently connected to your past and the first user. Your grandmother had hinted that the curse had probably some minor involvement in your family. After all, he was considered a feared and high individual to jujutsu sorcerers at that time. A part of you hypothesized that the monster might’ve clashed or better yet, might’ve eaten your ancestor. He was known to be cannibalistic and had apparently feasted on his enemies during his reign of terror, may it be curses or humans alike. Anything with flesh, basically.

The thought mildly bothered you that you found yourself not being able to escape from such thoughts. If Sukuna Ryomen could come back to life, would he recognize you despite suppressing your amounts of cursed energy? The most probable scenario would be another death flag on your head if he had resurrected. Another thing that you didn’t need.

You pick on your meat with the chopsticks, taking one pint-size bite before washing it down with a glug of water.

Being in the unknown always brought certain dread on your part, you always had to be cognizant of the cards being put on the table. Even if it was a little piece of information or something as drastic as a shift. It was like that one saying in the book you’ve read as a child, one that the populous coined as the butterfly effect,  ‘how the light fluttering of butterfly wings can cause unpredictable consequences and may lead to large-scale phenomena's,’  it’s one you’ve remembered so well and one that taught you to always stay one step ahead of everything to prevent and deter unwanted events.

Hana, who was standing behind you, looked mildly solicitous the whole time since she kept glancing your way every few seconds. Ever since you had come home that night and your trip had been cut short, you barely did any of your usual day to day activities. Another round of rumors started to escalate in the estate that you were depressed about the trip and that your husband had stopped paying attention to you, another side kept pressing that apparently it was the pregnancy blues. The young maid, on the other hand, thinks you’re mad at her for the stunt she pulled which was letting you and Satoru stay in one room, “Y/N-san?” she hesitantly calls out to you yet you're so far up your head that you don’t even hear her calling out your name, “Y-Y/N-san?” she repeats.

Your eyes darted away from your food and towards the young girl who was looking at you with crestfallen eyes, “Is the food not good enough? Would you like me to send it back to the chef?” she asked, you notice the reluctance in her tone and her shaking hands as if she was jittery about certain things. The corner of your mouth quirks up, trying to appease her that you weren’t irate about anything at all.

“You look like you haven't eaten much either, Hana.” You kindly spoke, placing the chopsticks down next to you,  “Come, I think the reason why I’m not able to enjoy food is because you’re standing behind me and looking at me as if I’m some kind of vulture ready to pounce.”

“Oh,” her eyes went round at your choice of words, sheepishly, her gaze shifts down to her feet, trying to pry away from your tender eyes, “I couldn’t do that, Y/N-sa-”

“I insist.” You ushered, standing up so that you could pull a chair out for her, “Come on, sit down.”

The young girl gulps and hesitantly sits next to you as you call in another maid to set a place up next to you. Hana looks down at the expensive chinaware, one that probably cost more than her years worth of salary combined then at you who started putting food on her plate, “Y/N-sama...” she tries to say, ears turning red in embarrassment that the high lady of the Gojo Clan was serving her a meal.

“I enjoyed the trip.” you cut her off, trying to diminish her worries. It was technically not a lie since Sendai was as beautiful as described to you. It may not have been the partner you wanted to be with but Satoru was more or less cooperative and actually bearable throughout the whole trip, you were even able to learn something new about your husband because of Hana’s little scheme, “Satoru-sama and I had a wonderful time thanks to you.”

“Huh,” she blinks, not expecting those words from you at all. She was expecting you to scold her that she tried to pull that one off but you didn’t seem mad about it, “I...I’m really glad, I thought you’d be mad…”

“Of course, I’m not...” you take note of her words and her expression, “But I am quite sad that the trip ended abruptly, that’s all…”

Her lips formed to a small O, her brows furrowing together as she nodded. Leaning in closer as she clasped her hands together, ready to lend an ear to listen to your problems. How sweet. 

“And that’s why I ended up being quite worried for my husband,” You slowly began, if your husband wasn’t going to call you, you might as well gather information elsewhere. For the most part, you’re sure that Gojo Satoru doesn’t want to talk business with you. The man liked to keep the grisly details of his work away from you since he thought you couldn’t stomach it. Add the fact he might find it uncanny if his wife, one who hadn’t even done field work or practiced jujutsu would suddenly poke around his business, “You see, he hasn’t called since that night.” 

Hana’s brows furrowed together when she heard your harrowing tone and started chewing on her bottom lip, that was why you looked very disconnected these past few days! You were worried for your husband, “Y/N-sama,” she fervently broadcasts, “You should’ve told me earlier! I have a cousin who works under one of the elders.”

You knew this, that’s precisely one of the reasons why you had hired her in the first place.

“Really?” you hesitantly replied, starting to chew on your bottom lip. It was quite easy to coax and appeal to the young girl’s sympathy with just a few honeyed words and dulcet tones,  ���Hana, I couldn’t exactly impose on you to do something like that-”

Hana immediately shakes her head and leans in closer, “Don’t worry, Y/N-sama. I wouldn’t want to keep you worried. You’ve been down in the dumps and keeping the other maids and workers worried as well.” she earnestly interjected.

It seemed like things were in favor for you after all and being worried for Megumi had it’s advantages.

“Oh no,” you faltered, sounding apologetic, face contorted to a deprecatory expression, “I didn’t mean to make anyone worry at all…”

“It’s absolutely normal,” she justified, her eyes filled with vigor and enthusiasm in attempts to comfort you, as if whatever your feeling was heard and taken into account, “I can call in my cousin, Y/N-sama. He’s actually one of those people who is very much interested in yours and Satoru-sama’s story. You didn’t hear it from me but apparently one of the elders in the Gojo Clan was ousted after um…” Her voice drops to a hushed tone. She starts making an awkward facial expression as if she didn’t want to say what had happened out loud and what she was about to share was confidential.

You tilt your head to the side, quick at picking up what she meant. You didn’t know that. He didn’t tell you that he had dismissed an elder on your part. You weren’t even aware that he knew what had happened during that time. The sudden revelation makes you take a deep breath, your hands drop on top of the expensive mahogany table and slowly drum on the hard surface as you carefully asses what to say next, “I haven’t heard of that…” you truthfully voiced, pretending to sound disinterested but subtly, you were urging the young girl to tell you more.

You knew how hard it would be to do that sort of exertion. In fact, removing an elder of a clan was considered to be quite the move since they were considered to be senior individuals and second-in-commands in case something were to happen. One’s that the head of the clan apparently needed to keep the smaller clans under it in check, it was like severing important connections beneath it, so doing such things haphazardly made your head throb as you promptly tried to run over the list of notions you could pull out of your knowledge. 

Gojo Satoru may go around and acclaim himself to be a panjandrum but people were always needed to keep the power balance in check within the clan.

“Oh, Y/N-sama…” the young girl began, starting to explain what had happened, her eyes sparkling as she started gossiping about what had gone down that time, her hands gesticulating frantically as she tries to get point across,  “We didn’t know how Satoru-sama knew about such things either! You ordered everyone after all to keep a tight lip regarding what had happened that day but my cousin had told me Satoru-sama came into a meeting with the high council and had one of the elders of the Gojo Clan dismissed on the grounds of insubordination and exploitation of you, the one and only lady…”

Hana catches her breath after finishing the rather lengthy statement yet you try to remain unfazed about the whole ordeal, your mouth twists to a faux smile as you hold out your hand to reach hers, “Hana, thank you for telling me.” you imparted, holding her rough hands on your softer ones, “I- honestly, with what’s been going on between me and him, it’s been quite the messy situation but after hearing that. I’m at ease.”

The young girl holds onto your hand tightly, “Don’t worry, Y/N-sama.” she emitted, “I’ll be sure to tell you what’s been going on around there. Everything.”

The saccharine coated smile never disappears as you continue on with your front, “Thank you, it’s nice to know I have someone I can count on.” you expressed, bestowing your humble gratitude upon her.

Yet despite Hana’s cooperativeness, another question is directed towards your husband. Why had he done this? Better yet, why hadn’t he even told you? Even if it was an agreement between the both of you that you’d be under his protection, going through such lengths and even keeping it a secret was too much even for his part. 

You might have to withhold this information until you’re well aware of his intentions, Satoru may have some sort of savior complex but he and you were not on those terms nor in that same line of vision yet.

You feel your breath hitch as your fingers slowly reach for your right ear, tugging the lobe as you watched Hana enjoy her meal and continue to gush on and on about how both you and Satoru were such a pair that might change the outlook of arranged marriages and how bridal markets were in this world yet your mind is elsewhere.

The thought of it being something as genuine kindness would be something else.

Kindness.

The sudden warmth of where he had touched you is felt on your fingertips.

What were you even thinking? 

Satoru meant to call home after Itadori Yuuji had collapsed in his arms that night but it had escaped his mind when the council started clamoring and asking for questions, there was a massive influx of panic and chaos as soon as it reached their ears that someone     a normal human     had eaten the cursed finger of Sukuna Ryomen and lived to tell the tale.

Of course, it ended with him in front of loathsome and detestable individuals along with a long argument as to why the young boy needed to be disposed of immediately, “Shouldn’t you be thinking of your wife as well in this situation?” a very familiar elder barked, wasn’t he the same man who tried to use you last time during Yuta’s execution? This man sure had the audacity to care about your well-being now, “This boy may turn to a menace! He will rape and slaughter anything on his path! Leaving no stone unturned! He’ll not even leave your wife alone if he knows of her existence after what you did to him!”

Satoru’s eyes narrowed behind his sunglasses, his lips drawing back in a snarl at the old man’s choice of words. After catching wind of what these old men had tried to pull towards you, they ought to be thankful that you were a nice person who didn’t like talking about your troublesome past. Unlike you who seemed to bow down to the system, Satoru, on the other hand, wasn’t as good-natured, he didn’t want to pull his punches after that short trip that you two had and after seeing you on the floor, expression downtrodden and in shock. The fear etched on your face whilst you slept. It laid a mark, one he’ll never forget. You, His wife, one who had always paraded with empty eyes and faux expressions, one who had made him mildly uneasy because of that, had looked like you’d seen a ghost. One that haunted you and had you on the choke-hold. 

“Bold of you to assume I can’t protect my wife,” he bellows, stuffing his hands back in his pockets, recounting that time they tried to use you for leverage, “I advise you to keep your nose out of her business, after that stunt you tried to pull during Okkotsu’s execution, you know what’ll happen if you keep throwing her name around carelessly.”

The elder looks away from the shaman, not wanting to hear what else he has to say. Good, he was dumbstruck. He better keep your name away from his mouth, “Now, I believe we can come to the agreement that we need the boy. There’s no guarantee after all we can ever find someone in reach to be Sukuna’s vessel.” he dictated. After hearing what Megumi wanted last night for his new-found acquaintance, he’s on a mission to follow his student’s well-wishes and achieve the dream that he wants for the future, Itadori Yuuji won’t die today. He’ll live to see another day and Gojo Satoru will make sure he’ll never step foot on an execution platform ever.

“You can’t keep going around-” another one tries to bark back at him, fucking dogs.

“You know what I’m capable of.” he cuts him off, unhinged eyes staring down at each old man in the room, the sudden color of their faces are drained as they look at those spine chilling sapphiric eyes, ones that wouldn’t hesitate to commit a bloody mayhem, “And you know I won’t hesitate. So let Itadori Yuuji eat all those twenty fingers before you execute him.” he asserted.

The room is reduced to stillness, the threatening words sinking right in their bones. All of them are well-aware that the shaman isn’t exactly spouting out baseless threats.

One old man stands up, trying to pacify the whole situation, “I believe the six-eyes has a point.” he averred, “I’m sure we can make use of the child, either ways, it’s not exactly a bad solution given our situation as of late. If he tries to run or gets out of line, it’ll be easy to cut his head off since we now have a body that's insubstantial and disposable.”

Hushed whispers broke out of the room, some relatively agreeing but most were still hesitant. They’re a bunch of cowards in Satoru’s perspective, idiots who aren’t able to comprehend this situation. His gaze shifts to Yoshinobu Gakuganji who's looking unamused on the side and refuses to say anything out loud, Satoru takes note that he might be a problem to be dealt with later on, he might even try to visit you again like last time, “Then I believe we can come down to a compact.” The same older man dictated, “Itadori Yuuji’s execution is delayed…for the time being…”

The meeting is over and Satoru is on his way out, the sound of his footsteps echoing the empty place. An injured Megumi is standing there and leaning against the wooden surface, looking at his phone with a perplexed expression, “What’s got your face in a twist?” The shaman’s tone is changed to a more lax and playful one, his shoulders are now more relaxed as he accompanies the young boy. 

“Y/N-san tried to call, she even texted just now.” he enunciated, raising his phone to show him the text message, “Didn’t you call her?”

Satoru stares at the young boy for a moment, it seemed like he was smart enough not to answer because he’s well-aware that if he did, you’d be asking if he had any injuries and that would get the both of them in trouble, “Don’t answer her until you’re fully recovered.” he stated, snatching the phone from the young one’s grasp and putting it in Megumi’s pockets, ignoring the prying expression that he was giving him. The pair starts walking down the long hallways side by side, “I’m trying to fix some things with her and I don’t want another argument for a moment.” he added.

The raven-haired boy directs his gaze towards his mentor, eyebrows raised, and green eyes laced with nosiness, “Sensei,” the boy paused for a definite moment, contemplating the next few words, “Do you seriously think that me being injured would start an argument between you two?” It sounded funny when Megumi said it out loud and usually the older shaman would laugh at that sort of thing, after all, he had never envisioned hiding such things like this to his wife.

“She seems to like you more than me.” It may sound like a joke but in all fairness, it wasn’t a lie. 

“But aren’t you married?”

The pair is silent for a moment as soon as Megumi lets go of those words, Satoru wasn’t in the mood to get down on the deep and complex relationship you two had and why it didn’t seem to work out very well at first. Other than the fact that he bought you     something Megumi isn't entirely aware of     it delved deeper than some sort of just opposing thoughts and small arguments, you and him were both raised differently with different outlooks and privileges and it was hard to find common ground in the beginning because of that, “It’s complicated.” he simply disclosed, “You’ll understand when you get older. Marriage is more than love and affection after all in this society.”

Megumi ended up being more confused, why was marriage even different here? He knew it was an arrangement but wouldn’t people usually end up loving their spouses either way because of vows and such?

“Don’t think too much of it.” Satoru calls him out as if he was reading his thoughts, stopping in his tracks and turning to him, Megumi following suit,  “Even Y/N wouldn’t want you to think too much of it. In the end, she and I are making it work. That’s that.”

It doesn’t exactly appease the young boy’s growing curiosity between you two, “Now, if you’re done poking around my marriage. Yuuji’s case is solved.” Satoru revealed, placing his hands on his pocket as he started taking long strides yet again. Megumi’s eyes slightly widen as he matches his teacher’s pace.

“He’ll live.” Satoru finished, “We’ll find those twenty fingers and he’ll eat each of them.”

Megumi looks quite disheartened at the bargain that they had to come about with, Yuuji was an innocent guy who had a life ahead of him and because of his incompetence, he got dragged into this mess. Satoru is well-aware of that look and is quick to find a solution for him, “You should tell Y/N about that part.” he suddenly advised, “Bring Yuuji next time too. I bet she’d love him.”

“What?”

“She’s a good listener.” Satoru lazily shrugged, looking ahead of him and not even bothering to glance back at the boy next to him, “And you know how lonely she can get around the house because she’s not very, ah, outgoing as you recalled. When we get back to Tokyo and you’re all healed up, go give her a visit.”

The boy rightfully takes his mentor's rather surprising advice and does so.

When they’re all back in Tokyo, Megumi ends up in front of your doorstep. He’s rather skittish as he tries to tug his sleeves down since he hadn’t answered your calls or texts for the past week, after Yuuji’s matter had been settled and his dorms were already fixed up, and after they had picked up their new classmate by the station, Nobara Kugisaki, a girl who had a weird obsession with shopping and wanting to move around Tokyo too much. He’s right here and uninjured.

Satoru had advised him that it would be best if Megumi had been the one to tell you what had happened so far. A warm-up as he’d like to say. The boy thinks he’s being used as a scape-goat and although he wants to argue with his teacher that he was being absurd and he was overreacting, he ends up biting back his tongue. 

“Megumi?” Your eyes are glossed with worry, hands pressed together on top of your expensive silk yukata, altruistic eyes, ones that held no ire behind them, staring right at his transparent and trusting green ones,  “You didn’t answer my call. I thought Satoru-sama came too late and you got heavily injured.”

“I’m fine, Y/N-san.” He mumbles, ears turning hot in embarrassment that he had made you worry like this. It’s been so long since he felt someone looking out for him, Tsumiki would usually end up scolding him if he ever went back home in a very rough state and he’s getting that sort of treatment from you, someone who he had just known for a year and wasn’t even related by blood, “Just...a lot happened…”

Your brows are drawn together as you take in his words. Hana had informed you of the harsh events that had transpired during this past week but judging by the young boy’s avoidance and reluctance of the topic and how he seemed to be dancing around it, he seemed to be blaming himself for it, “You know,” you trailed off, “I made something with Hana earlier, you might want to sit down and try it with me since Satoru-sama might not be home again.”

Megumi clears his throat, “He says he’ll try to come home today. He’s just trying to help Itadori out.”

“Itadori?” you feigned ignorance. Hana had narrated just last night that there had been an ordinary human being who had foolishly consumed a finger of the cursed monster and was able to walk it off as if it was nothing, unknowingly becoming a vessel. Your husband had been kind enough to save him from his death sentence. You’re not even surprised by that action anymore, after the lengths he went to protect Okkotsu Yuta, you now viewed your husband as a man who seems to make it his mission to save every child at death’s door in this world.

You guessed being some man with a savior complex would let him do such things.

Yet you do end up wondering just how you were going to have to avoid the child that your husband had just saved, a piece of someone lies within him, one who may have been your family’s foe. One who may openly put a death flag on you if he starts to be well-aware of you.

“He-uh…” he paused, scratching his head, not entirely sure how he should word it out to you, “He ate a finger...Sukuna’s finger…”

“Ate?” you blinked, Megumi looks mildly displeased as he looks down at his feet. The leaves down there look more interesting rather than seeing your most likely disappointed expression. 

“It was my fault, Y/N-san...He..he-” he tries to find the right words to explain the situation to you, looking just as lost.

 “Come on,” you cut him off, not wanting to hear him beat himself up for it, “It seemed like you had a rough week. I see that’s why you couldn’t call me back.” 

Megumi looks up, your back already facing him, “I...sorry about that, Y/N-san.” he apologized once again, tips of his ears flushed.

“Those Doarayaki’s I made aren’t going to eat themselves. You can tell me whatever you want but on one condition.” The young raven-haired trails behind you, taking his shoes off, as he’s confused by the sudden request, “...Don’t blame yourself, Megumi.” you turn to him, it’s a tone that he’s mildly familiar with since you had used the same one when you both had met last year during the time when Tsumiki had suddenly fallen into a coma.

“Right.” 

“It’s never right for a child to burden himself with things like that, after all.” you necessitated, walking ahead of him in a slow pace, leaving him there with his own thoughts. Megumi feels his chest turn lighter when you say those words. He’s entirely sure that he’d definitely feel lost without you around here.

It’s late again on that same day.

You’re on your way back to your room. The lights on the hallways are dim when you find your husband standing there, just about to re-enter his room. Tired oceanic blue eyes staring at you and faint eye bags underneath it, signaling that he might’ve had a very long week like the boy earlier. There's a towel laying on top of his head, probably to dry his silvery-wet hair. 

“Still can’t sleep?” he yawns, as he starts ruffling his hair with the cotton towel.

The first conversation you both had since that moment in the car and since you had known what he did. You lick your dry lips, balling your fists tight. For the first time, anxiety is eating you up as you try to pick up on the next few words, “Just the usual.” you breathed. He’s nonchalant as always and back to being unreadable, your thoughts about him jumbled up like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle in a box. A part of you thought you’d known him better but now that he’s in front of you, it’s thrown out the window again.

Yet you couldn’t be mad nor lash out at him, this time. 

“I’ll take that as a yes.” His smile is lazy and relaxed, your gaze suddenly averted elsewhere, not sure on how to respond to that, “Want me to sit on the floor and keep you company again?”

“You’ve probably been awake on most days.” you cleared your throat, “Megumi told me...you picked up another stray cat…”

“Ah,” he nods, continuing with his ministrations on his hair. It’s mildly bothering you that a fully-grown man can’t even dry his hair properly, “I did, he’s adorable. Bright kid. Pink hair. Likes Jennifer Lawrence a bit too much.” he stops mid-action as he tells you more about Itadori Yuuji, you didn’t bother to cut him off and continued to listen to what he had to say. Satoru keeps tabs on how you listen to each of his words despite you probably knowing all this from Megumi.

“He’s a different case from Okkotsu-kun.” your lips pursed together, the council wouldn’t obviously let this one live, “Aren’t you just...prolonging his agony?”

“You have a soft spot for kids who are on death’s door, don’t you?” Your husband mused, recalling that time when you held him back when Okkotsu Yuta was facing the same predicament. It’s strange but he thinks it’s due to your kind-heartedness and how you can’t seem to turn away on things like that despite it being frowned upon by many. 

He was about to return to toweling his hair yet you pluck it away from his grasp, making his face contort to a muddled expression.

“Because they’re kids.” You simply replied, when deep down you related to them. The feeling of having to knock on death's door at such a young age, the feeling that you weren’t supposed to exist and that you weren’t supposed to be here,  “And you dry your hair terribly. It’s bothering me.”

A silent laugh comes out of his lips as you call out his habit out yet you ignore him and simply motion him into his room, “Come on, sit down. I’ll do it for you.” you lilted. The shaman blinks at the innocence of your tone and how unbothered you seem to be when you freely enter his room.

He trails behind you, glancing at how your bare feet lightly pats on the floor. The graceful manner of walking never leaves his line of sight along with how your nightie rides up and the haori does nothing to even cover the naked flesh that he sees. At times, Satoru forgets how maidenly pure you are. That you were unaware of these unsullied things despite the confidence you showed towards him. 

“I’ll sit on the floor,” Satoru mumbles and before you could even protest that he shouldn’t be doing such things again, he sits down near the edge of his bed. The air feels different than before, maybe it was your uneasiness because of what you’ve come to know earlier this past week or maybe it was because things have been different between you two these days. He seems to have trusted you more while you were still in the middle, wondering, waiting, for him to betray you along with the small voice telling you that this was simply short-lived. You clutch the towel on your hand tighter as you carefully shuffle towards him and sit behind him in the comforts of his warm duvet.

Your husband feels your soft fingertips brush his damp hair as you rake your fingers through it, the cozy action making him sleepier, “You’ll destroy your hair with this.” You tenderly start to pat his hair with the towel.

“Hm.” he hummed in reply, leaning back, the feeling of your thighs and warm flesh was a new thing, one he didn’t seem to mind and you didn’t bother to complain either. Instead, you continue with what you were doing, “M’hair is perfectly fine.”

“Then you can do it-”

He suddenly takes a hold of your wrist, suddenly facing you, “Didn’t exactly tell you to stop though.” he utters, his azure eyes locking onto yours again. 

Gingerly, he lets go and returns his gaze upfront while you chew on your bottom lip. The comfortableness and quietude of the room slowly sinking in as you readjust yourself to be able to dry his locks, “Hey Y/N?” he suddenly began, his voice low, probably because drowsiness was slowly overtaking him, “The council might try to get my ass for this again.”

“Don’t they always? Itadori-kun is just another excuse added to a long list.”

He lets out a mirthless laugh at your choice of  words, typical, “I know,” he tries to blink the tiredness away, “I’m starting to feel quite bad for you, though. You’ve had…” He yawns, “Quite the hard time growing up, after all and now your husband is running around, doing things...a lot of things…”

“We’ve talked about this before.” you addressed, “Haven’t I told you that you won’t be losing either?”

“Good point.” he turns to you, once again, his head slowly bending down to rest on the edge of his bed, face mildly drowsy as he looks above him, “But what about you?”

“What about me?”

“You’re unguarded. Vulnerable. The council likes to keep bringing you up when I’m seeing them.” He starts listing reason after reason, saying the last one in displeasure as he recalls the last meeting he had with them and the one before that,  “I might just end up actually losing you instead.”

Satoru isn’t sure why he had said that out loud but the idea of you suddenly disappearing didn’t sit right with him. He’s grown used to you, already. Whatever pattern or habit you seem to have had become a part of his life, seeing you at the dead of the night was one of those moments that he’s also grown accustomed to. Sitting down on the floor whilst you stayed on top wasn’t a problem either. Even your weird snapbacks and arguments as well.

It’s bizarre, you’ve unknowingly cemented yourself in his life already.

“You’ve grown soft.” you confessed, placing the towel down to your side, trying to maintain the tone in your voice, “As much as I appreciate the sudden concern, I’ll be fine.”

“You always say that even when you're not.” He takes his other hand to grab ahold of your wrist, “You have that reversed technique but I wonder just how many marks are placed here from repeatedly tightening your fists whenever you say that and lie to my face.”

“Back to assessing me?”

“No,” his hands start trailing upwards, tracing the outline of your hands where the nail marks  used to be, “It’s just, I wish you’d sometimes stop looking at me like that.”

You're silent for a moment, his vague words making you hold your breath, a line appearing on your forehead as you try to assess his words, “Like what?”

“Like I’m the rest of them.”  The room turns heavy as he addresses the crux of the matter head on, he doesn’t let go, instead, his rough fingers continues to linger on your flesh. You chew the insides of your cheek, your husband's unsettlingly calm gaze never leaving you as silence envelopes the room once again.

Your lips part to a small sigh as you lean in closer, placing a hand on top of his forehead to be able to check his temperature. 

“The lack of sleep is getting to you.” you lied, ignoring the way your heart starts thumping fast at how honest your husband was becoming, “You’re saying things as if you didn’t call me a scheming bitch just a few months ago.” your words are harsh once again as you try to get him to snap back to your realities. Gojo Satoru isn’t like this, he doesn’t care. He’s not supposed to, at least to this extent.

Your husband lets out another round of breathless chuckle, “Right.” he acknowledged, “Right. Too much for a night?”

“No,” lies, lies, lies, his touch is burning on your skin just like the last time, “You’re just saying things out of character.”

“It seems like I’m not the one doing the little assessment after all.” He throws back your words from earlier, letting go of your hand. Immediately you pull it back and toss the towel at his face. Not even bothering anymore to reply because you didn’t know what to say. Your husband, as usual, doesn’t have his infinity on so it hits him right in the face, “Nice aim, Y/N.” He jokes as it falls to the bed. The moment was gone as soon as it came.

“Get some rest.” You ignored him as you slid out the comforts of his warm bed, the cold bare floor plunging you back to existence as you tried to erase what he had just said moments ago. Things were getting hard, he was making things too hard for you already. 

“I will, if things aren’t going well again tonight, my door’s always open for you.”

You try to disregard his words as you shut the door behind you. Your grip on his door knob is tight. Something is lingering on your chest, guilt, most likely. Something you didn’t expect to feel towards him.

“You’re too soft.” Your grandmother’s words reverb in your memory, “Like a dog that keeps being loyal despite being kicked down by its owners, you still keep coming back.”

You let go of the door knob and place one hand on top of your head, lightly gripping on it, “Ha.” You huffed out, shutting your eyes tight. So many thoughts jumbled in your head, sometimes you wish for your mind to just shut up for a night and let you stop thinking.

The sound of the staff coming in and out, coupled by a good morning whenever they see the master of the Gojo Clan pass by them on the long and pristine hallways. The day is mundane like any other. Calls to answer here and there, paperwork most likely to be filled up later on, cute students to teach and tease during the lessons, and most likely, seeing you for dinner    if he’s able to get off Yaga’s back   and a little late night chat with you again    you’re more or less likely wearing those revealing nighties again. He should really stop looking at you too much. Despite the rings that bound you, it wasn’t exactly agreed upon that you’d be helping and relieving him with his carnal desires.

The white-haired shaman continues walking down the long hallways, phone on one hand, toast on the other, as his brows are bunched up together in displeasure, it seemed like the day wasn’t going to be his usual routine at all This time, he’s tasked to go on a mission a bit further, probably even longer by the looks of it. He might not be able to take you to the Tanabata on the day itself.

He stops by the window, seeing you at the garden again despite it being only seven am. He scarfed down the last of his bread and walked out to your side, you don’t even bother looking up to him when he situates himself in front of you, “Good morning.” You greet, watering the Irises and the daisies, “I thought you left.”

“Decided to sleep in for a bit.” He bends down across you, the only thing separating you is the plot of plants in the middle, “Slept quite late last night after all.”

The events of last night lingers in his head for quite a bit but you seem unruffled by it as you continue with what you’re doing, “That’s good.” You finally look up, staring him in the eye, “What are you doing here then?”

“Tanabata might be cancelled. Mission.” He puts his phone up, slowly waving it in the air, “I know how much you were looking forward to it.”

“It’s fine,” you take the small shovel and start placing some fertilizer, you're calmer now. After that conversation last night, you’re more than aware that you shouldn’t think too much of it. If this was simply a phase, then it shall be. If he’s using you, then more or less it’s a good reason since you’ll most likely stop feeling that bothersome sentiment of guilt that was slowly eating your heart inside and out whenever he sits down in front of you, “This must be long then?”

“Probably,” he shoves the phone back in his pocket before he starts twirling and playing with the delicate flowers in front of him. You’re tempted to smack his hands away despite wearing your dirty gloves because you weren’t in the mood to have your little garden destroyed but you decided against it and let him continue on with what he was doing, “We can still go when I get back. It usually lasts until August anyways.”

“Okay.”

“You’re not mad?”

“Why would I be?”

Your husband presses his lips into a thin line, something felt off about you. It was as if you were distancing yourself from him again, “Right,” He settled, “I’ll be back as soon as I can, Y/N.”

When he leaves you to your own devices, you cut down a dead leaf and another and another, the heavy feeling on your chest is still there. 

Emotions such as guilt, are at times, the most hardest thing to get rid of. They are truly dreadful when they start latching onto you like those weeds growing on the ground. They tap into your senses, leaving you in despair until your death bed. Probably even more so when you’re being judged in the afterlife.

You take off your garden gloves and toss it to the side. The prickling sun slowly shows itself towards you, signifying another mundane and boring day.

taglist @birdiewolf ;; @shokobuns ;; @aprosperlys ;;  @menacanela ;; @shutuptenguu ;; @strawberrykilos ;; @dixonsbugaboo ;; ;; @itoshiwhore ;; @imuziawi ;;; @senjuasuna ;; ;; @jjkdilfs ;; @kageyamakock ;;@micheladakenzo ;; @myrroronthewall ;; @wubbawubwub04 ;;   ;; @haewanna  ;; @m3nh3raa ;; @junggoku ;; @kat-su-ki ;; @pjofics ;;  @nikkiandherrandomshits ;; @cowward ;; @tsumuuwu ;; @gojojogo ;; @gomchan  ;;  @fiona782 ;;  @serendipity-imagines ;;  @shephard17895 ;;  @pissbbyai ;;  @hinaamaya ;;  @taihjj ;; @menacanela ;; @softieelorelylove ;; @roione ;; @dixonsbugaboo ;; @fyodors-crime ;; @reggxe-a ;; @senjuasuna ;; @micheladakenzo  ;; @myrroronthewall ;; @kgojo  ;; @mindlesschicca ;; @archonssun ;; @gyubit17 ;;  @sangwoahbigbussy ;; @cupieyeri ;; @onlyshinji ;;  @enesitamor ;; @pissbbyai ;; @daniisnotdead ;; @strayreader ;; @itsvanilla ;; @lavandula-stuff ;; @yuutaokkutsu ;; @rinnieroulette   ;; @rogueofbullshit;; @kiyoojima​ ;; @yeolmae-ssi ;; @daiawritss @musichime07 ;; @iriesviel ;; ;;  @sleepxxing ;; @angelicvsoul ;;@Mindlesschicca ;; @cathymnhi ;; @archons-sun ;;   @musichime07 ;;  @iriesviel ;;  @sleepxxing ;; @leftwherenothingsright  ;;  @kamisamaundercover ;;  ;; @pissbbyai ;; @angelicvsoul ;;  @chiizukeeiki ;; @lovedenji ;;  @leftwherenothingsright ;;   @tsukkisfatsimp ;; @reggxea ;; @cosmeti ;; @sweetcreaturr;

[pyreo]

It’s tough not to cringe when thinking about looking forward to Fallout 4 in 2015. But I did, and I prepurchased it, and six years later I’ve actually finished it.

I abandoned two playthroughs before starting a third last year, I played on survival mode, I did every quest, discovered every location, and finally experienced Far Harbor. I can only look at that 900 hours and think they would have been better spent on anything else.

And it’s not that it’s not fun, because they’ve worked very hard to convince you the world wants to be looted and there are bullets out there that need to be fired. But it’s just there, like an empty theme park where the rides are all free and there’s no one to talk to. Fallout 4′s bigness is a point of pride and having to spend that much time exploring, searching, and steeling oneself for inanity is time spent becoming acutely aware of its faults.

I enjoyed Far Harbor much more, because it is better made. The smaller space better ties it together, the atmosphere is fresh and scary. Multiple quest lines revolve around differrent takes on robots in funny hats, which were far and away the best aspects of the base game, so it’s playing to its strengths. It finally directs the story back to the aspect of toying with people’s memories that the Shaun Plot’s Memory Den introduced and did absolutely nothing with.

To Far Harbor’s credit, it does start asking questions, like is it enough that a synthetic person stays alive, if you erase their accumulated self-identity to do it? Is it worth doing reprehensible things for the greater good, if you have to edit those memories out of your mind so you can live with yourself? And if you’re a brain in a jar, and you swap your hat with someone else’s, can anybody really say it wasn’t always your hat?

I had to put thought into the ending I wanted, which came down to ruining an innocent person’s life to bring peace between factions, or taking DiMA to the harbor for justice (and unavoidable execution). I chose the first option because although DiMA’s horrifying actions are indefensible, I felt I couldn’t subject Nick to it, and just made my distaste clear to DiMA instead. Far Harbor is an extended trolley problem, showing you a guy who couldn’t handle the guilt of adjusting the tracks, then giving the lever to you.

It did something interesting, for sure. But I’m not fond of Trolley Problems, and I trudged to the ending with no strong conviction in my actions. Far Harbor’s plot has consequences to your choices, but in the same vein as the Fallout 4 binary, ‘blow everyone up or don’t’. In fact the only reason I chose not to explode the Children of Atom, whose fanaticism is actively leading to murders, was the unexplained ability of their members to become immune to radiation, and the implication therein that they might actually be onto something.

Although Far Harbor improved the game, I just thought it was unfortunate that after spending so, so many hours getting through the giant, bloated Fallout 4 experience that I could barely be enthused about it. I just needed this checked off my list.

My bobbleheads and final stats. As a series, Fallout tries to depict a clash between the human instict to build, and our propensity for destruction. Fallout 4′s genuinely interesting settlement building is narratively ignored to prevent any unwanted sense of change from rattling their carefully curated fishtank or recognisable Fallout branding. Characters exist simply to deliver plot twist lines that sounded great in the boardroom, each faction delicately misdirecting your attention as they speak vaguely about their visions for the future while commanding you to take, kill, and destroy. Searching for contextual meanings unearths nothing but constant excuses for the convictionless void that underpins the narratively static maze this game can only circle around in.

I can sum up Fallout 4 in the following screenshot:

[b000mbayah]

Aespa as Yanderes

3:25━━━━━━━━━━━━━♡━━━━━━━4:31

Requested: yes

Word count: 472

Warnings: Stalking, obsessive behaviour

3:25━━━━━━━━━━━━━♡━━━━━━━4:31

Karina- Overprotective 

•Karina is usually close to her love interest, having a heavy impact on their life.

•She might not necessarily realise it herself but she is indeed a Yandere.

•Karina may just see her actions as being more protective than overprotective.

•She's blind to the fact that she's a yandere.

•It could take a long time for her to realise, if she ever does realise.

•Loves to have you depend on her at all times, in all situations.

•Lives for the fact that this is her undercover excuse to protect you.

•This makes you only a phone call away, easing her mind at night.

•She's okay with just being the person for your emotions, the aim for your affection.

•But if she feels like her love interest is being hurt in any way, shape or form, she'd switch. 

•Her overprotective side will be on display for all to witness with delicate eyes at the scene.

•This overprotective state is just a part of her nature.

•She was born with a jealous trait.

•That's what leads her to becoming an overprotective Yandere with overbearing intentions.

"You! Yes you! You stay away from MY y/n or suffer the consequences!"

Giselle- Restraint type

•Giselle can't help the intense urge to just be by your side for all eternity.

•She wants to be the only one in YOUR life.

•She wants YOU to be the only one in her life.

•She could go about this in multiple ways.

•The main two plans being:

•You either comply and stay by her side at all times.

•Or She'll kidnap you and lock you up in her house forever...with her of course!

•That's your decision though, your fate rests in your own hands.

•You either comply and stay or get taken away.

•What she wants is what she gets.

•She's extremely stubborn too...

•You can't take that from her mind as you two will be inseparable.

"Hey y/n, can you come over… I really need your support right now.."

Winter- A violent Final type

•Can't stand the thought of you being dead.

•Even though she brings you near the edge of death every week.

•As much as she drives herself into a deep lake of thoughts, she hurts you.

•Winter will break her love interest in every way possible.

•However, everytime she takes a step back to reflect on her doings, she ends up broken herself.

•She may damage you like an old, unwanted, toy, but she'll also assist you through the pain.

•She'll attend to whatever damage she's inflicted upon her love interest.

•She's caring but violent.

•A deadly mix.

•she takes her frustration out on you.

•But you're the cause of her frustration.

•You can never win with this girl.

•Either way you'll end up trapped in a loop of never ending torture.

"Does that hurt? That's your fault, stop making me think of all of these.. THINGS!"

Ningning- Self-sacrifice type.

•Would make any sacrifice no matter the cost.

•As long as it leads to you loving her back.

•The sacrifices could be as small as losing her job or as large as dying for you.

•Ningning would gladly take a blood bath any day, for you.

•Ningning would gladly fight any bloody battle for you. 

•The love sick girl would kill many for you.

•Somewhat of a ride or die situation with her.

•Being a self-sacrifice type means that Ningning wants to help support and protect you.

•Unlike a self-harm type who does it for the wanted attention.

•She wouldn't care if you hadn't noticed all of her ambitious rescues.

•As long as you're happy.

"Y/n.. I'd die for you any day.."

[the-entire-cast-needs-therapy]

Look Entrapta was having a pretty rough time in that episode. Absolutely feeling the Entrapta Feels. But like, I was just recently thinking.

Imagine that episode from MERMISTA'S perspective. Like, she's in charge, which is unusual but whatever, fine, she can totally do it (she's not sure she can do it). This mission is INCREDIBLY important, with a friend and the planet at stake. A crucial part of their plan is Entrapta, who recently re-joined the Rebellion (presumably because she was completely out of options considering the destruction of the Etherian Horde). Entrapta has a bright and cheerful attitude about the whole thing and seems to think the whole "defecting and helping the Horde wage war against them" thing is water under the bridge, if she acknowledges it at all. Then, during the mission, she starts making goo-goo eyes at one of Prime's robots, which draws unwanted attention and now this mission, which Mermista is leading, without Adora, just got even riskier. Because little miss what-is-considering-consequences has yet again gotten distracted by the shiny technology that seems to be her only motivation for doing ANYTHING.

Yeah. I'd be kind of pissed too. Obviously we, the audience know that there's more to Entrapta than a dangerously irresponsible tech-obsessed amoral airhead, but Entrapta wasn't in the rebellion long enough to show her depths to anybody else. By the end of the episode Mermista has adjusted her perception of Entrapta to "spacey geek who gets carried away sometimes and who I should probably be more direct with next time", but at the start? " Dangerously irresponsible tech-obsessed amoral airhead" is kind of all she's ever seen of Entrapta.

[indocanadaeto]

4 Usual questions asked regarding laser hair removal treatment

Laser hair removal is among the most effective methods to eliminate unwanted hairs on your body. It is effective in eliminating body hair in a safe and efficient.

But, a lot of questions be a source of confusion for people when they are about to undergo laser hair removal treatment. These types of questions can lead to a variety of doubts and confusion within the mind of the patient regarding the procedure. What are these concerns? Read on to learn more about them.

Common questions about laser hair removal treatments

Find the most frequently asked questions regarding laser hair removal below.

1. Am I the best candidate for treatment with lasers to remove hair?

Yes. This treatment is appropriate for all. But, if you suffer from any allergies, or if you've had any other treatments for your skin before it is advisable to disclose your doctor who is treating you. If not, you shouldn't be in doubt about the possibility that this treatment is suitable for your needs or not.

2. Are there any negative consequences of laser hair removal treatments?

No. The likelihood of serious side effects resulting from laser hair removal treatments are very low. There is a possibility that you will have a few minor adverse effects such as redness on your skin, swelling, etc. But, you don't have to be concerned about any negative side effects from this procedure at all.

3. Are the results of the treatment for hair removal using lasers permanent?

No. The effects of this procedure aren't lasting. Hair growth will return after a specific time. But, it will be much thinner than it was before.

4. Can I undergo laser hair removal treatments by myself?

There are no limitations regarding what you can or cannot do by yourself. However, undergoing this procedure by yourself is not advised. Doing this procedure without the guidance of a professional increase the risk of injuries. Therefore, you should not attempt this treatment by yourself.

5. What is the cost of the laser hair removal procedure?

There are a variety of treatments for hair removal using lasers. The cost of this procedure is contingent on the type of treatment you choose. For a general concept, the treatment could cost anywhere from $75-$200. The exact cost of the treatment is contingent on a variety of factors.

If any of these issues were causing you trouble and you're now able to get precise answers to these questions.

If you have any doubts or want to find the best spa in Brampton, you don't need to search any further than our professionals. Our professionals have a wealth of knowledge of the removal of hair using lasers. Our expertise and dedication to providing you with the finest results make us the most sought-after choice of many in the field of the removal of hair using lasers. For more information on how to connect with us and receive the most effective laser hair removal service contact us by dialing (905) 799-0012.

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What makes Indo Canada Salon & Spa your destination for laser hair removal treatment in Brampton? Click here to know the answer.

[springdandelixn]

Sunflower

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/41952342/chapters/105698847

Jorah x Daenerys

Summary: An altercation at the bar finds Daenerys waiting for Jorah in the dark.

Warnings: 18+, smut, BDSM, implied violence

Note: This story is part of my Jorleesi Smut Series: Eonian. Stories included in this series may or may not be connected with each other unless stated otherwise.

The room is dark.

Not because of the lack of lighting. But because of the blindfold tied snuggly over her eyes, her bare chest pressed against the leather cushion that covers the table's surface, her wrists bound tightly to the sides by leather cuffs, and her knees bent, making her naked ass stick out into the air, waiting and ready for him.

As much as she enjoys the thrill of being bound, the anticipation is agony. Especially at this moment, she knows this isn’t a display simply for play and pleasure, but a punishment that needs to be carried out. A discipline she has to take for displeasing the man she loves for stepping out of line.

She should never have talked to that man at the bar. Never should have entertained the seemingly innocent questions that lead to his unwanted touches which inevitably had Jorah beating the stranger to a pulp and dragging her out of the establishment in evident rage. 

She should have listened for she knows the consequences if she doesn’t.

Grab a drink and come back at once. His words echo in her head, regret swirling within her. 

She stiffens on the table when she hears his feet pad into the room, her throat tightening and her senses heightening from the lack of sight and the ability to move, feeling Jorah stand at her side then move behind her, her ears piquing when she hears a drawer open then close, already knowing well what he’s taken and what he intends to do with it. 

A crack in the wind then echoes in the room and Daenerys clenches her teeth, tugging roughly on the restraints, her heart rate spiking when the leather material bites her skin sharply, the sting radiating from her ass and up her spine.

“Do you know why you’re here, Daenerys? Do you know why I must do this?” His voice comes out strong and authoritative, which makes her swallow hard before she responds. 

“I do, Sir.” 

“Good.” He hums, her skin tingling when the flat leather piece runs gently against her skin, skimming up and down on each of her cheeks, a soft moan leaving her when she feels it brush against her clit, rolling against it then a silent gasp escapes her when it snaps against her swollen bud. 

And just by the feel of it, she knows his disciplinary tool of choice. 

A riding crop.

“Then you know what you should do.” He intones steadily. 

She remembers. It’s what he always instructs her to do when she’s on this table. “I must count, Sir.”

“Very good.” He praises her once more and Daenerys can hear him walking again, the sound of his bare footsteps invading her ears before feeling him stand in front of her, his hot breath tickling her cheek then feeling the tip of the riding crop brush against her face. “What’s the safe word, Darling?” He asks in a low tone of voice that brings a shiver of desire up her spine.

She gulps in a lungful of air before answering, “Sunflower.”

Instantly, she feels him walk away from her, his presence missing within her radius, then all at once the rod meets her skin, the sharp pain radiating from where her ass meets her thighs to the entirety of her body that she pulls on her restraints and chokes out the word, “One.”

The second, third, and fourth hits come just as quick, the sound of Jorah’s grunts bouncing off on the corners of the room, invading her senses and sending a tingle through her skin and to the pit of her belly. 

After the fifth, she gasps when she feels the pad of the riding crop brush against her clit once more, the pressure that he puts on it digging unto her swollen bud that she wills herself not to moan, her hands closing into fists and her toes curling when he grazes the leather along her folds, the loss of friction making the hair on her body stand from the halted stimulation. 

The next round comes just as quickly. The sixth, the seventh, the eighth, and by the ninth, her breath catches in her throat, the stinging pain blending into pleasure that makes her throw back her head when after the tenth he presses the rod against her clit again and then pulls it back only to push it slowly through her folds, Jorah fucking her slowly with the pad of the riding crop. 

“You seem to be enjoying yourself, Darling.” Jorah tuts, pulling the rod away, Daenerys baring her teeth and turning into a moaning mess when he slaps the leather against her clit repeatedly, each poke on the nub pulling at her strings, making her body shiver with desire, the tension within her tightening as she feels herself close to her limit. 

“You know the rules, Daenerys. You cannot come unless I tell you to.”

“I understand, Sir.” She whispers and tries to pull her knees together to keep the dam from breaking but the slap he gives her against the side of her thigh stops her, Jorah’s tsking at her movement. 

“Knees apart, Daenerys. As a matter of fact, spread them wide.” He growls his command and she obeys. 

She pushes her knees away from each other then yelps in surprise when the pain comes again, resuming her count and panting heavily as she breathes out the numbers, trying to keep up with each strike he makes. 

After the fifteenth, she’s breathless then filled with want, the leather pushing through her folds once more as he begins his punishment anew, the leather brushing against the walls of her pussy, teasing her, coaxing her into new heights, bringing her slowly to the edge only for Jorah to pull back once more, frustrating her further as he continues to keep her away from the release she longs for. 

Sixteen.

Seventeen.

Eighteen.

And by the nineteenth, she’s panting, she’s in agony, she’s in pain. Not from the riding crop but from the pressure that’s building within her, her muscles clenching and her body tingling from the desire to let go, to unwind the coil that’s turned too tight for her liking, her thighs singing from each strike of the rod that Jorah graces her with. 

After the twentieth, when she expects the stimulation of the rod to bless her once more, it doesn’t come. And she doesn’t feel Jorah behind her anymore as well, making her move her head, trying to search for his presence. 

Then the table underneath her shakes, feeling the weight behind her and in one fluid motion, she’s full, his cock penetrating without warning, his hands gripping tightly on her waist as he begins to fuck her at a relentless pace. 

She moans and tugs on the cuffs, her back arching from the sudden intrusion, a welcome one at that, though the pressure in her builds at an increasing rate, making her whine and gasp as she tries to seek her release. 

“No one is allowed to touch what is mine!” An animalistic growl leaves Jorah’s lips as he thrusts frantically in her, her walls clenching around his cock each time he slides deeper within. “And you’re mine, Daenerys. Mine. ” The possessiveness in his voice makes her body shake in hunger, in yearning, in desire, for the words that leave his lips are nothing but the truth. She is his. Mind, heart, body, and soul, all his.

His fingers bite on her skin, nails digging into flesh that she knows bruises will appear in their wake. His hips jerking at a brutal pace, groans and moans and mewls leaving their lips and she fights hard to keep her release at bay, to please the man taking her as she is, biting her lips hard that she tastes the metallic tang of blood on her tongue. 

“Fuck!” He curses hard and stills, his cock throbbing deep inside when he reaches his climax, feeling his seeds fill her, coating her walls, the sensation driving her to madness as she too wants to let go. 

She visibly shakes when she feels his lips trail down her back, giving her shallow thrusts then gasping when his hot breath brushes against her ear. 

“Come.” 

A simple word yet meaning so much more for she lets go, and moans audibly into the leather cushion, her body spasming from the intensity of her release, a blinding white light engulfing her as relief slowly floods into her body. 

She slumps on the table, chest heaving and whining when Jorah pulls out of her, her pussy clenching from the hollowness he leaves her. She feels their mixed essence drip down her inner thighs and a sigh of relief fills her when the cuffs are undone, her eyes blinking fast when the blindfold is taken away soon after, her vision adjusting to the dimly lit room they use for such activities. 

She then feels her legs being pulled back, having her body flat on the surface, and a small smile forms on her lips when Jorah’s hands return to her body, a warm cloth rubbing gently between her thigh, the slickness from their essence washing away from her skin. A hum then escapes her when the coolness of the aloe vera he uses on her every time they engage in such play kisses her thighs, relieving her from the sting of the riding crop he’s left her with. 

Once he finishes, she feels a thin sheet drape around her body, and slowly, Jorah rolls her on the table, Daenerys winces lightly when her ass presses on the sheet but is soon relieved when he lifts her in his arms and walks them out of the room. 

She looks up at him and frowns when she still sees the anger in his eyes. Slowly, she leans against his shoulder and presses a hand on his chest. 

“I’m sorry.” She mumbles and Jorah falters mid-step, his eyes casting down to look at her. “I should have listened to you. I should have just gotten the drink and left but I was being too kind.” She hides her face on his neck and curls her hand around his shoulder to press herself closer to him. “I’m sorry.”

“I’m sorry too.” He sighs and begins his stride once more, gently laying her down on the bed when he enters their bedroom. “I should have controlled my anger.” He says as he sits down beside her, his hand reaching up to caress her cheek. “But when I saw him touching you, I just—I couldn’t have that.” 

“I’m yours, Jorah.” She mumbles and leans against his touch, her hand reaching up to hold onto the one on her face. “No one will ever change that. I won’t let them change that.” 

He looks at her and nods, the shine in his blue eyes slowly returning before he leans down and presses a light kiss on her lips. “Sleep.” He instructs softly before standing on the bed, pulling the blanket over her, and walking out of the room.

[yeet-noir]

Ladybug VS Chat Noir: You Don't Have to Choose Sides

I don't know if this would be a hot take or not, but I seen many people express concerns about the Ladynoir conflict that is coming to light. Which of course we are in for some angsty times, but with that comes with people being upset/angry at other people in terms of how they feel about the situation and I just wanted to say I do not think the Ladynoir conflict is going to be so cut and dry, black and white, right vs wrong.

What I mean is Ladybug isn't the bad guy in the situation and neither is Chat Noir, but also they both are. Ladybug isn't purposely leaving Chat Noir in the dust, but she also is. Rena Rouge being apart of the team full-time isn't bad, but it also is. Chat Noir being jealous isn't wrong, but it also is. Two opposite statements can coexist and both be correct, but those opposite statements both can be met with fair criticism.

Ladybug is doing everything she can to learn her new role, which started with her isolating herself because she was overwhelmed which lead to a mental breakdown. Confiding in Alya was not thought out, but it felt right in the moment and has proven to be good for Marinette's emotional state. Marinette doesn't need to feel alone in being Ladybug, but at the same time Chat Noir offered her comfort and gave himself as somebody to confide in because he has been a hero for as long as she has in which she denied.

Now all of a sudden Rena Rouge is appearing more and fulfilling a need of Ladybug that she previously denied to Chat Noir. And on top of that involving Rena Rouge in guardianship stuff something Chat Noir has been excluded from in the past by Master Fu which lead him in attempting to denounced being Chat Noir. Chat Noir has every right to be upset and feel excluded. He is now taking a backseat in the hero group while Ladybug has at all times access to other miraculous to give to other people. From his perspective it is easy to see why he would feel unwanted and unneeded. Chat Noir is right for being upset about what is going on.

Ladybug however, is the only one to know about Chat Blanc. To her knowledge, Chat Blanc happened because she knew who he was and he knew who she was. Chat Blanc destroyed the world and with that destroyed Ladybug the only person who could undo what he did. She can't let that happen again and she can't know why it happened in the first place.

Also, Chat Noir miraculous is very important, if she accidentally jeopardized his identity she would have to consider taking his miraculous away. This would be because Shadowmoth is after it, and of course she doesn't want to loose the other miraculous, but if something happened to them it would not pose as much as a threat if stolen. Perhaps to her, shielding Chat Noir makes sense because of his strengths and his roles are vital to the team and to her. She is protecting him from the consequences of knowing each others identities which could lead to unideal outcomes such as needing a new Cat holder. She already expressed multiple times that the idea of loosing him hurts her when he sacrifices himself and the time he renounced being Chat Noir.

So both Ladybug and Chat Noir are harboring ideas and feelings about their current situation, but the are polar opposites. Ladybug wants to protect Chat Noir therefore is leaving him out of what she views as dangerous. Chat Noir wants a strong partnership with Ladybug just the "two of them against the world", but instead is being sidelined and isolated.

The reason this is causing conflict is because both of them are not communicating this to the other and nothing will change until both of them do. Ladybug can't keep denying Chat Noir his wishes, but Chat Noir wishes can't all be granted by Ladybug. It is a dangerous game they play. They both are right and they both are wrong, but neither feelings are more valid than the other.

[kaythefloppa]

Ok so flaming hot take, but has anyone noticed the corruption and nepotism that is normalized in Equestria in Friendship is Magic? One that could lead to horrible outcomes?

Starlight, the leader of a cult and an obvious out-of-control authoritarian who gets exposed for her corruption by the royalty and is cast out. Upon returning she attempts to sabotage the royalty connections but is convinced to stop. After which she gains a comfy life in the palace as Twilight's student and gets off the hook for brainwashing and eventually she is given the position as the headmaster of a school.

Stygian steals artifacts from his bretheren to conduct unauthorized experiments on them without the consent of the owners, is cast out because of it and retaliated by trying to destroy the country and Starlight, whom we have already established is on the receiving end of said nepotism, argues that the dangerous rouge should be reasoned with, an argument that the royalty (Twilight) eventually caves into. Moreso, the responsibility of the conflict is heaped onto the victims of the theft.

Tempest Shadow becomes man-power for a tyrant and functionally kills 3 members of royalty, uses a stolen artifact from a distant Kingdom to give said dictator his power, and has previously displaced an entire race of creatures from their home and likely did the same to others. However she is allowed to go to a public event that was canceled particularly because of her and is allowed to travel freely. And she was proclaimed as a friend the moment she was no longer a threat.

Chancellor Neighsay is a supremacist who discriminated against other cultures which started conflict and locked up minors whom he accuses of terrorism. Only for him to keep his job, whilst the juvenile delinquent responsible for the crime (who managed to get as far as she did because of Neighsay's bigotry) is locked up in poor conditions right next to an adult with no evidence of her guardians to be held responsible for her neglect.

Discord, an ex-convict who has agreed to go on the straight and narrow, releases 3 wanted criminals, unites them together under disguise of a dead emperor, resurrects a dead tyrant only to have him be killed off again, threatens the lives of his army to force them to work with him (making Cozy Glow a child soldier) all with the "intent" of preparing Twilight for the throne. Upon being bitten in the ass by this, the citizens of the country are forced to fight their way out and then Discord manages to play judge, jury, executioner for the criminals he set loose.

All of these are examples of corrupt people in power or flat out criminals getting away with their crimes or being favored either because they are on good terms with the mains, or because they themselves are the mains and in a high position of power. And everyone goes along with it because Twilight is the Princess of Friendship. Of course they'd follow her.

Now the thing is, we never see the victims of these people speak up against this form of favoritism or reach out to Twilight and challenge her beliefs. But logically some would have. No one would stay silent for that long.

But if that were the case, then that means there are victims out there in Equestria feeling unnoticed, ignored, unheard, and unwanted, constantly watching their abusers and threats to their well being getting no consequences. Some would want to leave. Others would feel constant fear. Some would feel rage:

Eventually, far enough down the line, the victims will stop waiting abs start doing.

Maybe that is why Equestria fell to shit in G5: