#legends of tomorrow one-shot

[garciaasfluffypen]

The Birthday Disaster

wc: 1.8k pairing: sara lance x ava sharpe  warnings: NSFW (MDNI i will chase you with a broom), the legends are chaotic, sara and ava really just want some alone time goddamnit

Christmas was probably one of Ava’s favorite times of the year. She wasn’t sure why, but it made her so happy to see the whole team get excited about decorating the galley. Even Zari, who technically didn’t celebrate Christmas even got in on the spirit, and everyone always made sure to put out halal foods for her so she could be included. For Ava, the closeness was probably the best part of it. Growing up, she had never really become close to people in her life, unless you count her mother and father. It wasn’t until she met the Legends that she had realized what being close to people meant, especially when it came to all of the shenanigans that they all ensued this time of year. From ugly sweater contests to see who could drink the most eggnog before they noticed Mick had spiked it, Ava had never felt like she had belonged. But now, she had a group where she did belong and celebrate the things that made her happy.

She was helping Nate hang some string lights in the galley when she happened to overhear Zari and Amaya talking as they walked in to get a drink. She didn’t mean to eavesdrop, but she heard Sara’s name and was automatically intrigued. Sure, they hadn’t put a label on what they had become yet, but something told her this was something she and Sara had to do for themselves – something she knew the blonde assassin would probably be annoyed with but would smile through it nonetheless.

“Nate,” Ava started, “What does Sara like?”

“Huh?”

“Like, candies, chocolates, that kinda stuff.”

“Oh.” He paused. “Well she likes gummy worms, some sort of chocolate covered espresso bean shit… never understood why, if I’m being honest. Oh, she likes Pixie Sticks too.”

“Sweet, thanks Nate.” Ava patted him on the shoulder and scurried down the ladder she was standing on, practically running out of the door.

“You’re welcome?”

                                                          -----                                                                

Everything was going to plan. Ava had told Sara to come to their room on the Waverider after dinner so they could hang out, just the two of them. Smoothing out yet another invisible wrinkle, Ava sat herself down cross legged on the bed and placed the box she had got Sara in front of her, filled to the brim with her favorite candies and topped off with a bow. The only wrapping paper she could find was an obnoxious hot pink paper covered in unicorns, which clashed horribly with the lime green bow she had found shoved in the depths of Zari’s closet. Either way, the sentiment was there, and she knew that Sara would get a kick out of it either way. She nervously tucked some hair behind her ear, swallowing the lump that was in her throat. She could get through this. She could make her surprise work. It had to work. She didn’t put three hours of planning into what outfit she was going to wear today for nothing. A small jump overtook her body as the door to their bedroom opened, Sara walking in with a sly smile on her face.

“What’s this?”

“Well, I overheard it was your birthday tomorrow and I wanted to do something special, just the two of us. Since we have things planned with the team tomorrow, and… I- yeah.”

“Aves, you didn’t have to.”

“But I wanted to.”

Ava held out a hand and took one of Sara’s in her own as she sat down on the bed, lightly nudging the box towards her. Sara raised an eyebrow and took it, hints of a smile forming on her lips as she saw the wrapping paper. Ava hid behind her hands as she heard the paper rip, trying to hide her blush as Sara opened the box. Various candies and small baggies with the chocolate covered espresso beans were scattered throughout crinkle paper (or “Easter egg grass!” as Gary liked to call it) and small bite size pieces of chocolate were scattered in as well. A pack of Pixie Sticks was sitting in the bottom as well, and a small handwritten note was taped to the lid of the box. Sara carefully took the note off of the lid and opened it, smirking as Ava watched her read it through her fingers.

“Babe, this is - wow. Thank you.”

“You like it?”

“Like it? Aves this is one of the best gifts I’ve ever received.” Sara put the note down on her bedside table and crawled across the bed to Ava, placing herself on her lap. “But there’s one gift I’d love the most.”

“And what would that be?”

“Well,” Sara took the bow from her present and looped it around Ava’s neck, slowly pulling the blonde closer. “It starts with an A, is five foot nine, and hopefully is wearing something sexy under that robe.”

A small scoff fell from Ava’s lips as she wrapped her arms around Sara’s midsection, pulling the smaller blonde as close as she physically could muster. The two of them became a tangle of limbs as she pushed Sara back so they were laying down, the box of treats forgotten as it fell to the floor. Ava’s robe was practically ripped off of her as they continued to kiss, the robe being long forgotten as Sara threw it somewhere in the room. Fingers trailed over porcelain skin as Ava made her way down Sara’s jawline, using her free hand to push some hair out of the way as she came closer to her neck. Ava’s hands came to rest on Sara’s hips as she waited for Sara to shimmy out of her shirt. Once the shirt was discarded, Ava resumed her trail of kisses, stopping to put a singular kiss on each breast. She slowly continued down Sara’s body, taking the time to kiss each and every one of Sara’s visible scars, and even trace over the small tattoo she got of a black canary -- Ava guessed it was to symbolize her sister. Sara started squirming under her touch and Ava let her tongue slip out in between her lips, making her trail down her body painfully slower than it was. When she finally got to where she wanted to be, Ava slowly ran her hands up and down Sara’s thigh, waiting for the assassin to give her the go-ahead. When Sara practically started pleading with her, Ava inched her way towards the hem of Sara’s undies, pulling them down her legs. She could practically feel the heat radiating off of her, and smiled as she pushed hair out of her face, making her way down.

Sara felt the fireworks in her body as Ava finally got where she needed her to be, her back arching as lips and tongue danced across her skin. Sara let her hands get tangled in Ava’s long locks, her face covered in expressions she had no idea existed until she met Ava. Toes started curling and Sara’s breaths got closer and closer together as Ava reached up and grabbed at Sara’s breast, pulling it out of the bralette she was wearing and playing with it. Sara started shaking in anticipation as she got closer and closer to climax, letting out a long moan as her back arched off of the bed, Ava’s hands sitting firmly on her hips in an effort to keep her in one place. Before she knew it, Ava was back up by her face and kissing her, causing Sara to wrap her arms around the blonde as she played with the hooks on Sara’s back, slipping the bralette off her tiny frame as they switched positions. Sara barely had time to register what was happening before she was on top of Ava, desperately trying to undo the corset that was tied around her midsection. Sara had seen Ava’s body many times before, but every time she was astonished at how perfect Ava truly was, inside and out. She finally got the corset untied and tossed it off to the side, pausing a moment to take her girlfriend in.  She bent down to place a kiss on Ava’s lips, smiling into it as she did so.

“Hey, I heard you guys had chocolate and pixie sticks OH MY GOD!”

The door to their bedroom slid open to reveal Zari and Nora, both of them in the stupid matching Christmas pajamas Nate had convinced everyone to wear (“Come on you guys, it’ll be cute!”), except Zari was just in a plain white crew neck with a donut on it. Zari automatically went to cover her eyes as Sara fell off the bed, taking the sheets with her. Ava, in her frightened state, grabbed a pillow and shoved it in front of her body, hoping and praying to anyone out there that it was covering her whole body. Nora froze in her spot, the half eaten Hershey’s bar Ray had gotten her falling to the floor.

“I clearly stated that Ms. Lance and Ms. Sharpe were busy, Ms. Darhk.”

“Yeah I didn’t think you meant they were busy doing each other!”

Sara popped up from her spot on the floor, doing her best to wrap the sheet around her body as she glared daggers at Nora and Zari. “What about ‘knock on my door if you need me’ do you not understand, Darhk?”

“Well, in our defense, Nate told us you had candy.”

“And whipped cream.”

“But now I see what you guys were doing…”

“I don’t think I want to know where that whipped cream was going to end up.”

Ava huffed. “No, you really don’t.”

“Both of you, out!”

“I- yes captain.”

Zari pulled Nora away from the door, shooting Sara a small apologetic smile as the door shut. Sara and Ava sat in their spots, staring at each other for a few moments before Ava cleared her throat.

“Well that was a disaster.”

“I-yeah.”

“We really need to invest in locks.”

“I- yeah.”

“I’m sorry, this was supposed to be perfect and-”

“Aves, hey.” Sara crawled back onto the bed, pushing some hair out of Ava’s face. “No matter what those idiots did or will do, tonight was perfect. I-I haven’t really celebrated my birthday in a while so being able to at least do something that made it special makes it perfect in my book.”

“You really think so?”

“Yes. Anything you do for me is perfect, Ava. I mean it.”

“So you’re not mad that Nora and Zari both just walked in on us having sex?”

“Oh no, I’m fuming. Actually fuming. But like you’ve told me, I can’t let my anger get a hold of me over something we’re never going to speak about again.”

Ava chuckled. “I’m really rubbing off on you, huh?”

“You truly are, Ms. Sharpe.” Sara smiled, pecking her on the lips. “I hope you know that I know get the liberty to walk in on both of them while they’re having sex with their respected partners as payback, yeah?”

“I couldn’t stop you if I tried.”

[hairstevington]

call me when you get this

Eddie Munson x Steve Harrington

Summary: Eddie and Steve are best friends, but even the best of friends have secrets.

WC: 3K

Warnings: Story told through voicemails, mild angst, coming out to each other, secret feelings, friends to lovers, kissing, swearing, light angst very brief, references to Robin and Gareth, drunk shenangians, idiots in love, set in 1991 but it doesn't matter too much, no mention of the Upside Down stuff

A/N: I have like three other WIP's happening and zero time but this idea was given to me by the beloved @tinytalkingtina in the discord and then I couldn't get it out of my head. Ao3 link here for those interested!

Tuesday, September 24th, 1991, 12:52am

GARETH hi yes I know it’s late but HAVE YOU LISTENED TO THE ALBUM YET? I need all of your thoughts immediately. Like, all of them. Every thought. Dude, my head is spinning. Ohhh, man. Kurt is a fuckin’ legend. Woooow. Okay, I could talk about this shit for like three hours but I don’t want to run out your tape so just call me back when you get this and then talk to me about it for three hours. Can I come over a little early tomorrow? Yeah, I’m gonna come over a little early tomorrow. Maybe a lot early. Alright, catch ya then. 

Tuesday, September 24th, 1991, 3:40pm

Uhh, ha. Hey Steve. Thiiiis is Eddie, obviously. I, uh, I just realized I called you in the middle of the night last night on accident, and - uhh, sorry about that. It was just - ah, screw it. You know what I am. Byeeeeee-

Tuesday, September 24th, 1991, 7:30pm

“Hey, it’s Eddie. I proooobably won’t listen to whatever you’re about to say, but shoot your shot anyway.”

Eds, how many times do I have to tell you to change your answering machine message? What if, like, the president calls? Okay, maybe not the president. But an employer or something. Or, like, what if you give the girl of your dreams your number and she calls you and hears THAT? Food for thought. Uhh, anyway, it’s fine. I wasn’t even home when you called me. Robin was, though, and so you’ll probably hear her wrath next time you come over for movie night. Good luck with that. Oh, wait. You’re at a show tonight, right? Damn. I swear I’ll make the next one. Okay, bye, dickhead. 

Wednesday, September 25th, 1991, 1:12pm

“You have reached Steve Harrington. Figured I should say that in case whoever is calling me thinks they’re calling someone else. Anyway, I’m busy right now so I’ll call you back. Bye!”

Ha, ha. You are so funny, Harrington. You ever think about being a stand-up comedian? Jesus, and you say I’M the dramatic one. Uhh, the show last night went well, by the way. Not that you were THERE. Seriously, what kind of friend even are you? I’m hurt, Steve. I’m hurt. Anyway, see you tomorrow for movie night. I get to pick. It’s only fair, right?

Thursday, September 27th, 1991, 4pm

“Hey, it’s Eddie. I proooobably won’t listen to whatever you’re about to say, but shoot your shot anyway.”

You’re not picking the goddamn movie. No way. Last time you did that we got scarred for life. Also, um. I can’t tell if you’re joking or not about me and your shows. I didn’t realize you - uhh, you’re probably joking. Forget I said anything, and see you tonight. I’m at work right now, so I’m gonna rent some backup options just in case.

Sunday, September 30th, 1991, 2pm

“Hey, it’s Eddie. I proooobably won’t listen to whatever you’re about to say, but shoot your shot anyway.”

Dustin says you were being a total dick last night. Good. That shrimp deserves to be humbled every once in a while. Your answering machine message still sucks, by the way, and yeah I’m gonna tell you every time. 

Monday, October 1st, 1991, 3:21pm

“Hey, this is Steve.”

“And Robin!”

“And you’ve somehow managed to call us when neither of us are here.”

“We are probably together.”

“Yeah, probably.”

“Or we just don’t want to talk to you.”

“Oh, that too.”

“Either way, leave a message and we’ll get back to you later!”

“Probably.”

“Probably!”

Steve. My guy. I can’t believe you make fun of me for my bullshit message all the time and now you’ve created and advertised THAT abomination?? I’m - wow. I forgot why I even called.

Monday, October 1st, 1991, 3:23pm

“Hey, this is Steve.”

“And Robin!”

“And you’ve somehow managed to call us when neither of us are here.”

“We are probably together.”

“Yeah, probably.”

“Or we just don’t want to talk to you.”

“Oh, that too.”

“Either way, leave a message and we’ll get back to you later!”

“Probably.”

“Probably!”

Okay, I remember now. I know you said you have that date tomorrow with Heidi or Melissa or Samantha or whoever is currently obsessed with you, but I really do want you at the show if you can make it. You can bring her, if you want. Actually, it might be a good test. If she hates metal, she fails. I only want the best suitors for you, Steve Harrington. Be there or I’ll be REALLY annoying about it forever. 

Tuesday, October 2nd, 1991, 11:45pm

“Hey, it’s Eddie. I proooobably won’t listen to whatever you’re about to say, but shoot your shot anyway.”

Hey, it’s Steve. So, uh - I saw your show tonight. You’re probably not home yet, but I don’t know where you are. Cuz like, I tried to find you after your set but you disappeared. I hope everything’s okay. You sounded great, by the way. I mean, you all did. Remember me when you’re playing at the Garden? Oh also, I heard like three women talk about how badly they wanted you, so…I dunno, just figured you’d like to hear that. Hey, maybe you got with one of them and that’s why you’re not answering. In that case, hope you’re having fun? Okay, now it’s weird. Bye, Eds.

Wednesday, October 3rd, 12:54am

“Hey, this is Steve.”

“And Robin!”

“And you’ve somehow managed to call us when neither of us are here.”

“We are probably together.”

“Yeah, probably.”

“Or we just don’t want to talk to you.”

“Oh, that too.”

“Either way, leave a message and we’ll get back to you later!”

“Probably.”

“Probably!”

Steeeeeeeeeeeve. You absolute buffoon. You beautiful, oblivious man. Why’dya think I wanted you there’so badly t’night, Steve? T’wasn’t for the girls. Ha, girls. Yeah, okay. I may have had several alcoholic beverages, Steve-o, but you’re still the dumbass. Cuz you’d have to be an absolute idiot t’think I have any interest in those women. ‘Specially yours. Your women, I mean. Sandyyyyy. Ugh, she was perfect for you, Harrington. Juuuust perfect. So perfect I didn’t wanna stick around to see any more of it. I hope you two have beautiful children. Name one after me, will you? Uhhhh I think I might puke. So, I’m gonna go, but - but do you get what I’m saying? Do you - do you get it? Tell me you get it. Steve, I - Oh, hey Gareth. Do you wanna talk to Steve? Wait why are you - Dude, I’m FINE. I’m handling it! Stop! Gareth, don’t hang up the phone, I haven’t -!

Wednesday, October 3nd, 1991, 9:05am

“Hey, it’s Eddie. I proooobably won’t listen to whatever you’re about to say, but shoot your shot anyway.”

Dude, did you fucking break into our apartment last night? Robin and I came home this morning and found a broken lock and some shitty note we could barely read next to the answering machine, and - what the fuck, man? You wiped the damn thing clean. Just - call me back, okay? Jesus. 

Wednesday, October 3nd, 1991, 11:36am

“Hey, it’s Eddie. I proooobably won’t listen to whatever you’re about to say, but shoot your shot anyway.”

Eddie, come on. We really need to talk. I’m not - I’m not mad, honest to God. Call me back, as soon as you get this. Got it?

Thursday, October 4th, 1991, 3:47pm

“Hey, it’s Eddie. I proooobably won’t listen to whatever you’re about to say, but shoot your shot anyway.”

It’s movie night, but I’m assuming you won’t be here considering you’ve pulled your magic disappearing act. Thanks for that, by the way. You know you really piss me off sometimes? All the time, actually. I’m getting real tired of you constantly poking fun at me, and then you pull this breaking and entering shit and just take off? Just like that? We’ve been friends for years, Eds. You and me. But you never want to just be serious, not once in your goddamn life, and I’m over it. So, uh, thanks for that, I guess. I dunno what I did. 

Sunday, October 7th, 1991, 1:12pm

Hi! You have reached Steve Harrington and Robin Buckley’s home. Leave a message at the beep!

Huh. You know what? I kind of miss the old message you had. Yeah, yeah, I know, I’m impossible to please, yada yada yada, and now I’m doing the avoiding with humor thing again. Shit. Uhh, hi. Listen, I’m sorry I disappeared off the face of the earth for a while. Really, really fucking sorry, if you can believe it. I was just, like, mad embarrassed, and I didn’t wanna - uh, can we meet up soon? Alone? Like, without Robin even? I know that’s - like, unheard of these days, but I figure maybe you’d make an exception for me. Or maybe you won’t. Just let me know, yeah? 

Sunday, October 7th, 1991, 1:30pm

Hi! You have reached Steve Harrington and Robin Buckley’s home. Leave a message at the beep!

See, I would just hop on over to your place to talk but the thing is, I’m a total chickenshit and it’s not like I did super well the last time I showed up to your place unannounced, so…Uhh, while we’re on the subject, I’m sorry about your lock. If you haven’t replaced it yet, I will. I’ll at least pay you back. In my defense, that thing was like two seconds from falling off anyway. But still. Anyway, I know you always spend Sundays at home, soooo…hellooooo? Come on. At least pick up the phone and tell me to fuck off. I know you’re listening. At least - I hope you are, anyway. Just pick up, man. I - I really gotta talk to you. 

Sunday, October 7th, 1991, 1:37pm

Hi! You have reached Steve Harrington and Robin Buckley’s home. Leave a message at the beep!

So, quick update, I called Henderson. He confirmed you are at home, which means you are DEFINITELY listening, and either you’re trying to punish me or a part of you still finds my piece of shit ass charming somehow. Look, I know I fucked up, but - but I can explain. Shit. I mean, I’m not good with words or anything and I’m a total asshole but I - just, please. Pick up. Pick uuuuup. Come on. Now you’re just being a dick. Ha. Figures, I’m apologizing and calling you a dick in the same message. Dude. Seriously. Your tape is gonna run out of space and then what? You stop hearing from me? I’ll find other ways to annoy you, promise. This is a threat. Steve. Steeeeve. Pick up pick up pick up pick upppp -

“Will you just shut the hell up already?”

Eddie dropped the phone and heard it clack against the floor. He would have recognized that voice anywhere. 

He turned around and there he was. 

“Steve, what are you -?”

“You would just be yapping on that damn answering machine my whole drive here,” Steve said with his hands on his hips. “I don’t know why I expected any less. And, thanks to you, we had all the space in the world for you to take up, so -”

“H-how did you get in here?” Eddie stuttered. 

Steve rolled his eyes. “What? You think you’re the only one who’s not afraid of breaking and entering?”

They hadn’t seen each other in five days. Hadn’t even talked, aside from a few voicemails. And those never told the whole story. 

“I’m sorry,” Eddie began. 

“Yeah, you should be,” Steve replied, taking a step closer to Eddie in the kitchen. 

Eddie winced, his heart racing a million miles a minute. He just had to get all of the words out, while he still could. While Steve was listening. 

“I left you this really stupid voicemail,” Eddie explained. “That night, after the show. I was drunk off my ass, and - and Gareth told me I’d said shit I shouldn’t have said, and then I panicked, and the two of us went to your apartment and I - well, you know the rest.” He slumped down into the chair at the dining room table, putting his head in his hands. “Which is all just so dumb. And I didn’t wanna deal with the aftermath, so…”

“So you stopped talking to me?” Steve said, taking another step closer. “Because you thought that would be the straw that broke the camel’s back in our friendship?”

Eddie shook his head. “I dunno, I -”

“You’ve done some real weird shit over the years, Munson,” Steve continued. “Sneaking into my apartment doesn’t even make the top three.”

Eddie buried his face in his hair. No amount of boyish charm would get him out of this one. Jesus H. Christ. 

He sighed. “Okay, so I overreacted, what else is new?” 

“I heard the voicemail, dickhead.”

Eddie’s heart went from breakneck speeds to stopping entirely. 

“What?”

Steve sat down in the other seat at the table. “I heard the voicemail. It was 1am, again, so yeah I was at home.”

“I thought you would have been with Sandy,” Eddie muttered.

Steve shook his head. “Nah, Sandy was - she’s great and all, but she isn’t - she’s not -”

“So you heard the voicemail, but you weren’t home when I showed up,” Eddie noted.

“Right,” Steve said. “Because I was headed to your place.”

“What?”

Steve rolled his eyes. “I just - I didn’t understand why you never told me you were queer. Like, you know I don’t care about that. You know about Robin…”

As Steve talked, Eddie realized that Steve only heard half of what that voicemail was trying to express. So, it was time for Eddie Munson to face the music. 

“I didn’t tell you I’m gay because I knew that once I did, you’d figure out the rest of it,” Eddie blurted out.

Steve furrowed his eyebrows. “The rest of it?”

Eddie groaned. “Oh, God. See, drunk me had the right idea saying this kind of shit over an answering machine. Christ, I’m so bad at this, but I’m just gonna say it, because if I don’t I think I’ll lose my shot with you and I - I can’t deal with that. So, here we go.” He squeezed his eyes shut and powered through. “Steve, I - ha, shit. I love you, dude. I’m - I’m IN love with you. I have been since, like, forever.” He opened his eyes, but kept them fixed on their feet against the linoleum kitchen floor. “Which is, uhh, a lot, I know. But it’s the truth. So if there’s any chance -”

“Oh, my God,” Steve interrupted. His voice wasn’t angry, or scared, or anything like that. It was soft and understanding. 

“Yeah,” Eddie agreed. “Wait, what are you thinking?” He looked up to see Steve staring off into the distance before meeting his gaze. 

“I’m thinking,” Steve replied. “That I owe Robin twenty bucks.”

Eddie cocked his head to the side and felt his heart skip back into rhythm. “You do?”

Steve nodded with a slight smile. At some point, his hand had ended up on Eddie’s knee. “Yeah, I didn’t believe her. Told her no way, not possible.”

Eddie didn’t know how to feel about this reaction. It wasn’t the worst possible response, but it certainly wasn’t Oh, Eddie! How I’ve longed for you all this time! Take me now! 

A middleground, if you will. 

“Oookay,” Eddie said. “Well, I don’t really know what to say now.”

“I’m queer too, ya know,” Steve continued.

"Wait, really?" Eddie balked. "Steve Harrington, ladies man?"

Steve chuckled. "Uh, yeah. Turns out, not so much," he said. "I feel like I’m pretty open about it. Guys, girls, whatever -”

“Yeah, but we all do that,” Eddie reasoned. “Me, you, and Robin all talking about how hot everyone is on our movie nights. It doesn’t prove anything.”

“Except that it totally does,” Steve countered. “Because, like, what do we all have in common?"

Eddie thought about it, and he didn’t have any other defenses.

“O-okay, so you’re queer too,” Eddie said. “And the other thing I said?”

Steve took a deep breath and looked Eddie directly in his frightened eyes.

“Eds, obviously I love you too,” Steve admitted at last. “Come on, seriously? After all I’ve put up with? I’ve been waiting around for like five days for you to call, like some lovesick puppy, and the moment I heard your voice I drove here instead of picking up the phone like a normal person. I’ve got it so bad for you that Robin is sick of it, and honestly, I’m sick of it too, because I hate having feelings. It blows, dude. I swear to God, if you try to bolt again when things get tough -”

Eddie lunged forward and cut Steve’s words off with a kiss. Their first kiss, even if it didn’t feel that way. Eddie had cupped Steve’s cheek in the past while he teased him. Steve had curled his fingers in Eddie’s hair in the past the night Robin taught him how to braid. Eddie and Steve had all kinds of physical contact in various ways over the years, and it was as if all of that was just practice for this. 

Eddie broke away from Steve’s lips purely out of necessity, because he needed to catch his breath. “Okay, woah,” he said.

“Yeah,” Steve agreed. “Woah.”

Everything changed after that. But also, nothing changed at all.

-

Tuesday, October 16th, 1991, 4:12pm

“Hey, this is Eddie Munson’s phone. Leave a message and I’ll call ya back.”

Hi, Eds. Okay, I was wrong. This new message you have is, like, super boring. Anyway, I’ll see you at the show tonight, Rockstar. Love you. 

xx

I did have a taglist way back when but the tagging system is super annoying on tumblr, so please reblog this if you liked it and follow me or my Ao3 for other works! Masterlist is the pinned post on my page for those interested. Thanks for reading!

[whispereons]

Oracle!Reader Part 23

Masterlist - Part 1, Part 22, Part 24

Warning! This is a SAGAU imposter au so this is pretty gory and not happy all the time. Plus yandere but that's the expected for SAGAU.

Xingqiu and Chongyun both showed muddled emotions at your words of leaving Liyue.

“That may be best for you…” Chongyun says first as he keeps his gaze on the floorboards.

“Yes, I agree. Although I never expected that you would have to leave Liyue so soon, it's clear that you aren't safe here.” 

Xingqiu’s words that were full of understanding still had disappointment sprinkled in.

“We can't do much to help you when it comes to Ningguang, but Mondstadt is a different story. Do you have the talisman on you right now?”

Chongyun takes a few steps closer as you lift the amulet for him to see. He rubs one finger on it, examining the symbol that appears at the action.

“It's still at full charge, good. The road to Mondstadt can either be empty or full of demons depending on the day. But once you get to Wangshu Inn, it becomes much safer.”

“Because of Xiao, right? Despite how the situation looked when I first met the Adepti, I'm on relatively good terms with them now.”

It was a bit risky telling them this, but they both deserved to know at this point.

“When are you planning on leaving? Is your meeting with Ningguang today?” Switching the topic, Xingqiu brings the focus back to the most pressing issue.

Nodding, you answer. “My meeting is with her today, but I'll probably have to leave either at midnight or early tomorrow morning. The sooner, the better.”

“Then I can offer you some help that should make staying in Mondstadt a bit easier.” Xingqiu grins as he takes out paper and some ink. “I happen to know someone-”

“Albedo, right?” Cutting off Xingqiu as you think back to his connection, you continue. “Together you made the book, uh what was the name again? A Legend of a Sword? It got pretty popular in Inazuma. I remember there was a whole festival on light novels that you both attended too.”

Once you stop, you notice Xingqiu squinting his eyes at you before replying. “That's really creepy, you know? If I didn't know you were the Oracle, then I would have believed you to be some stalker.”

“If I was, then I wouldn't be stalking you of all people.” You snapped back as he grins while shaking his head.

“But yes, I'll send Albedo a letter in advance so that he can arrange for you to be settled nicely over there. I won't mention the Oracle situation as the Creator didn't want you to be known widely like that.”

It's been so long since you last heard the title ‘Creator’ be mentioned despite the fact that all of your problems come from their supposed existence.

Only goes to show just how ingrained the Creator is in this world.

“Thanks Xingqiu. Albedo is the chief alchemist and well respected among the community, so I should be in safe hands.”

Xingqiu merely hums in response as Chongyun tugs the amulet closer to him.

“Just trying to apply a better talisman on it.” He mumbles in accordance with your stare as he settles himself closer to you.

He's basically pressed against your side, but you strangely don't feel uncomfortable to have him close.

As the pair focus on their own activities, your mind wanders off to Albedo.

Albedo, the chief alchemist and homunculus created by Gold, the famous Khaenri'an scientist. Khaenri'ah, which also held so much information that could be connected to Celestia…

It was a long shot, but you could try digging for information about Celestia from him. The deal that Celestia made with Teyvat still bothers you to no end. With the age of this deal unknown, you might even have to look into the primordial dragons if it's even older than the Archon war.

A light shining brought you back to the present and your eyes flickered down to where the amulet shined in Chongyun’s hands.

Once it died down to reveal a more intricate symbol than before, Chongyun nodded, satisfied with the final product.

“This one is a lot stronger and should last longer now. I know you can fight well, but the demonic energy in Bishui Plain and Qiongji Estuary has shown to rise around this time of the year.”

Carefully taking the amulet from him, you thumbed the symbol with curious eyes. “I get it, thank you. Does it activate on its own, or do I have to activate it with something?”

“It'll work on its own. Depending on the amount and degree of demonic energy around it, the workings will change.”

Motioning with his hands, Chongyun’s calm voice explains the working to you. At the end of the rather lengthy explanation, you nod and condense the information in your mind.

“And now that Instructor Chongyun is done teaching you, I'm happy to say that I'm done with the letter. Have been for a while, but I saw no need to interrupt the oh so fascinating lecture.”

Raising the letter, Xingqiu lazily waved it as Chongyun bristled but ultimately said nothing.

“I can send this once I get home. Unfortunately, neither me nor Chongyun will be available to accompany you through your journey.”

Xingqiu tsk’d at his own words while Chongyun turned his head away, visibly sulking.

“My family was just hired to check out Wuwang Hill and my attendance for this is mandatory. Xingqiu’s father is forcing him to stay and attend meetings with his brother for the week as well.”

All you could do was smile sadly in response.

Before long they were both forced to leave by Baizhu who insisted on total privacy for the reviewing of your medication and discharge.

Watching them climb down the stairs from the window in your room, you listen absentmindedly to Baizhu.

Changsheng still refused to see you. Something Tevyat was clearly displeased with, as the once sunny weather quickly turned cloudy. The cold-blooded creature must be huffing in annoyance by now.

“And this is the overview of medication and supplements to take, with the doses and dates to take them.”

Casually looking over the paper received from the shady snake bastard, you hummed for a moment before stuffing it into your bag.

“All of it is paid for by your special benefactor. And the drug you requested has already been paid with by your body, as we both know.”

‘Must he phrase it like that?’ You internally questioned as you snatch the medication and shove it into your bag.

“I'm glad for it. Maybe even more so if she didn't pin so many babysitters onto me.”

At your grumble, Baizhu’s smile wavered at the edges. Either he truly hadn't known why there was extra ‘security’ or he was a great liar. You suspect it's a bit of both.

“Then if everything has been covered, I’m happy to say that you're officially discharged as of-” He merely glanced at the sun still high in the sky before finishing. “1300. I sincerely hope that the next time we meet you'll be in a better physical state.”

“And I sincerely wish we never have to meet again.” The words you utter are full of sarcasm, something Baizhu simply chuckles at.

“Now what could I have possibly done to deserve your ire, dear Oracle?”

“It's what you haven't done. A little heads up about all the guards would have been nice.”

“Oh, but I did!” His smile seems a little sharper as he leans toward you, his glasses sliding down to the bridge of his nose. “Didn't I let you know early on that there were quite a lot of guards?”

With an annoyed scoff, you snap back. “You said it was due to the two temples nearby, not cause Ningguang wanted to keep an eye on me.”

Raising his hands with wide eyes, Baizhu tried to placate you. “I'm not part of the Millelith, how on earth could a physician like me know the true reasoning?”

Holding his gaze, you tried to discern what he was truly thinking at this moment. Malice? Amusement? Mocking kindness?

But at that moment, all you could see was genuine surprise in his eyes. It only served to confuse you further.

Was Baizhu truly innocent in this? Your instincts in situations like these were usually correct. Besides, what would Baizhu even gain from deceiving you?

Still, that didn't explain why Baizhu was always so damn shady, but maybe you should chalk it up to an unfortunate side effect of being contracted with a snake.

“Well, then let me reiterate my earlier words. While I still hope we won't have to meet again. I do wish for us to want to meet again.”

Baizhu lowers his arms while fixing his glasses to laugh, the sound is surprisingly tender. “And how do you expect me to tell when that would be? I’m no mind reader.”

Standing up, you stay silent as you slip your bag over your shoulders and move past him. The door opens with a creak as you tilt your head slightly to meet his eyes.

“To put it simply, I’ll want to see you when you discover whatever is hidden in my culture sample.”

The door clicks shut as you leave Bubu’s Pharmacy for good.

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

After a brief but firm pat to Qiqi’s head, you walk down the stairs casually. The slight rustling of the leaves, the fabric of curtains drawn, and the quieting of chatter are all brought to your attention.

Ningguang’s spies and the Millelith guards are all watching you like rabid dogs, waiting for you to slip up and give them an excuse to arrest you right now. 

Smiling without hesitation, you get to the last step and pretend that the forced conversations around you aren't scripted, and that the eyes locked on you are of a curious bystander and not the ones of detectives.

Bringing your attention back to the list you have clenched in your hand, you read the first errand on the list.

Return books to library.

Easy enough, and it's even easier when people seem to automatically avoid being in your path.

Is this what a day in Xinyan's life feels like? It's honestly not that bad.

At least you thought so until you got to the counter and waited for the receptionist to return.

Five minutes pass. Then ten minutes, which quickly turn into fifteen in a blink of an eye. You can feel your mood worsening.

Deciding to test something, you walk away from the library and turn the corner. Peeking around the corner, you watch as the ‘customer’ that was standing in the corner all those minutes gets to the counter. Almost immediately, a swarm of people return to it.

Sighing heavily, you ignore the weight of suspicious stares and turn the corner back into the library. Getting back into line feels humiliating, but it's just a quick errand, you tell yourself.

No one moves out of the way, but the quick glances they send you make them pale with each minute.

Not a soul dares to stand behind you.

It's finally your turn, and you place your books on the table with the last bit of patience you had. She doesn't meet your eyes and mumbles something.

“I'm sorry, what did you say?” Leaning closer, you try to catch her words, only for her to yell.

“It's lunchtime now so I can't accept any more returns or purchases. H-Have a good-d da-ay!”

Flabbergasted at the sheer audacity, you watch her flip a sign on the table and flee the area.

“Fuck this shit.” Colorful curses leave you as you drop all the books haphazardly on the table and storm away.

Crossing it off the list, you follow the main path to the next errand.

Collect reward from Guild

That commission should have given you one hell of a paycheck the last time you checked. Primogems may be worthless now, but you could use the Mora the commission provides.

Plus, you needed to let them know to change it to the Mondstadt region.

Lost in thought of all the technicalities and paperwork you would have to fill out, you weren't focusing on the fleeting whispers around you.

“Is that them?”

“Who else could it be?”

“What a monster…”

“-as long as we get paid.”

“Who cares about-”

“It's me or them.”

“As long as it's them and not me.”

Your experience at the guild was a much kinder one. Katheryne was the epitome of professionalism, just as you remembered her to be. Not that you expected much else from a robot.

After handing all the written work to her, you finally noticed the absence of a certain person.

“Where’s that grouchy Lan? She's usually here, isn't she?” Checking the vicinity, you try to spot the brown recognizable bob.

“The Branch Master Lan is currently undertaking a commission at this time.”

“About the unseen razor, right?”

“That can not be disclosed to unauthorized-”

“It's fine. I’ll see you later, Katheryne.” Turning around, you leave without another thought. Lan wasn't anywhere near the ‘threatening’ list you've created since you last saw her.

Pick up plushie

Crossing out the previous task, you look at the present one with mixed emotions. On one hand, you were happy to get a chance to see something related to Earth, to your world. But at the same time, you couldn't help but wonder if it would serve more as a distraction than anything else. The memories it brought up never failed to leave your heart troubled…

Remembering the money you spent commissioning it ultimately tipped the scales, and so you dragged your feet to the little old lady’s toy shop.

It was empty just as the first time you were there as she hummed. If she was a vision holder you'd guess Hydro judging by the tranquility she radiated.

Her eyes meet yours and a happy smile slips onto your face without much thought.

“Here to pick up the toy, dearie?”

“Yup.” Popping the ‘p’, you watched as she gathered a delicately wrapped box from under the other boxes and presented it to you.

“Enjoy the nostalgic memories a toy can bring.”

You politely thank her before taking the present and walking away. The weight of the box is heavy with dread, and you can only find solace in the fact she didn't refer to it as ‘happy’ memories.

Once sufficiently out of sight, you take to grasping the lid. But you couldn't bring yourself to remove it.

Too many memories. All of them are rushing in and filled with conflicting feelings that would surely crush you. The fear and selfishness of the broken promises and unfulfilled desires would throw you off your game.

With a little too much enthusiasm, you stuff the box of the cat plushie into your bag.

Most likely to stay forgotten and distant from the present you're facing.

Scratching it off harder than the rest, you get to the last errand.

Refill supplies

A smart and mature move considering how you used the whole Medkit during the chase. The soggy bandages and washed away ointment really hurt your heart and wallet.

Revisiting the same shops you went to the first time proved to be ineffective. Either they were completely sold out or no longer supplying them.

Forced to visit more stores, you had to walk around the city a lot more than you cared to. Each store had one of the two situations, and the skittish actions of everyone around you were just the cherry on top.

At one point you even tried to buy the individual items separately, and even that failed.

It's not like you could just wait till next week for the first shipment. You weren't even sure you would live till then.

Eventually, you found yourself sulking on the lower docks, turning the situation around in your head.

If only you lived in Liyue for a little longer, maybe you could have found some of the hidden shops. Befriend a store owner and get a hidden one.

Just who the hell would even go out of their way to get every medical first aid part when it's such a crucial item for so many people in this era?

A name finally comes to mind and your expression sours at the thought. Not that you’d let it show, Celestia knows how many guards are watching you at this moment-

A sudden, rapid series of taps on your shoulder has you spinning around in surprise.

A young boy stands before you. The clothes he wears has visible wear and tear as the fabric frays from the edges. Yet you can't help but think you might have seen him before.

Placing a finger on his lips, he uses his other hand to grab hold of your elbow and tug you along.

Surprised but not suspicious of the kid, you let him lead you deeper into the docks. The dark red of his eyes seem to glow within the shadows as his dirty blond hair acts as your beacon of light.

The smell of fresh fish turns rotten, and the dirt caked under his fingernails stains your clothes. The complete and straight planks become jagged and creaky as you follow him farther.

But you stayed silent.

You recognized a path to the seedy part of the city when you see it.

Instead, you examine the younger boy with a critical eye and finally connect the dots. He must be one of the kids you saved with Yiran.

A smirk creeps up your face. It seems you managed to use your time wisely in making connections after all.

Following along the twists and turns, you don't worry too much about the Millelith. Most of the guards probably couldn't even get this far. If you had to guess, it would only be the detectives who could keep up.

It's not like the hidden underworld of cities as popular as Liyue Harbor are any big secret to them.

Stalls and various shops fill the area as flickering lanterns and other extra lighting give you a wider view.

Multiple people call out to the boy as he silently waves to them. The gaze of the homeless and shady people around aren't warm, but aren't hostile either.

Not that you were exactly expecting a warm welcome, but at least you didn't have to worry about sudden personality changes.

Money could buy you information, but it wouldn't buy you trust in these parts.

He finally stops at a little nook in the corner of the area. The door is worn down with scratches and marks yet the light you can see under it is warm.

Silent as before, he points at you, then to the rows of shops in a sweeping motion before stopping at the door.

Pinching your brows in slight confusion, you chew on the gestures to understand it. High-pitched laughter that suspiciously sounds like children eases into your ears as the boy squirms in place.

“Did you want me to knock on the door when I'm done shopping? That you'll lead me back to the surface?”

It was the only thing that you can think of. And despite your hesitation, the boy nods, clearly relieved that you understood the message.

He must truly be mute, no doubt from whatever horrors he must have faced that lead to the scars poorly hidden by mud on his arms.

You were thankful either way. Just leading you here was great but getting an exit too was even better. Now you could avoid getting mugged and/or murdered on your way back.

“Thanks man, I'll be quick.” With that, you walk away, already following the invisible path to the shops that caught your eye.

As much as you would have liked to explore the various items and weapons they had, you didn't want to keep the kid waiting.

After having to buy a rather expensive medical kit, a minor downside to finding the first medical anything since you left Bubu’s pharmacy, you pick up a minor stitching case.

You could have really used one during your latest and probably not last chase. Stuffing it into your bag, as people eye the magical item with desire, you quickly find the home.

Getting to the door, you step closer than before and take note of the older voice. A woman that's chuckling, and a lingering sense of guilt invades your mind.

Quickly rapping your knuckles on the wood, you step away as the home goes dead quiet.

Multiple little eyes peer at you from windows below you as you lazily grin and wave. They all scatter as giggling resumes and the sound of playing returns.

But not the woman’s voice. You didn't expect it to. It's hard to face the only person you've poured your raw wounds from a child's death to.

The kid finally steps out with multiple clicks of locks echoing around the small space. Smiling, you take no offense to the action. You weren't here for trust, and they weren't helping you out of it either.

His crimson eyes glisten with interest at your bag. He wants his pay, and you're more than happy to oblige.

Stuffing your hand into the bag, you feel the familiar clink of Mora gathering in your hand. Pulling it out, you place an appropriate amount into the pouch he already has prepared.

When you drop it all, he takes it closer to him and picks up a piece. The first thing he does is try to bite it, and the familiar memory of you testing coins the same way makes you smile sadly.

Counting the Mora, he frowns, clearly displeased with the amount. He holds his hand out, and you can feel the other children’s stares digging into you.

“I'm going to give you two things that aren't Mora, okay? But you have to keep it a secret.”

He narrows his eyes, no doubt suspecting you of being a shady person. That's probably why he brought you here first and demanded payment before returning you.

Like this, he has back up and cornered you further into payment of his choosing.

“Do you have a cooking pot?”

He frowns in confusion before nodding slowly. Lifting one finger in a pause motion, before heading back inside his home.

He returns while holding a clean cooking pot. It doesn’t take long before he places it over the open fire you already started.

Small eyes follow your every step as you dig out ingredients from your bag. Mentally going over the ingredients you had originally prepared for your celebration feast if you survived tonight, you drop them into the pot.

4 ham, 3 crabs, 3 shrimp meat, and 3 matsutake potatoes are dropped in.

Turning around, you count to five as the boy gives you a confused stare. But you only wink at him before turning around to look at the pot, as his eyes widen at the sight.

Adeptus’ Temptation sits innocently in the pot as the rich aroma wafts around the area, drawing curious hungry eyes.

Leaning down, you whisper to the boy.

“Get your friends and bring the pot back into your house quickly. This food is blessed and safe as you watched the whole process. I suggest you let the sickly and injured children eat first.”

He looks between you and the pot with conflicting emotions. On one hand, he can't trust you too much, but even the smell of the food was clearly tempting him.

It's the shuffling of feet getting closer that makes him bang on the door, signalling for the other children to come out and help him bring it inside.

By the time the shabby adults come into view, it's just you and the boy ‘talking’ as they grumble and turn around.

The kid still looks displeased. You don't blame him completely, since how can he trust that the food you cook isn't spiked with anything nefarious.

You're not even sure if it can heal people that aren't acolytes. It doesn't work on you after all.

At least they'll all enjoy a hot meal, even if it doesn't work.

Sighing, you take out your last resort from your bag, sadly selecting it and pulling it out. The secret weapon you've been saving since your time in Inazuma.

The colorful assortment of candy wrappers makes the kid’s eyes sparkle with the childlike glee that was absent since you met him. Probably long before you met him.

“It's not just Liyue candy, some are even from Inazuma.” The thought of giving up your hard-earned candy hurt you, but you let it go. 

The candy you squirreled away during the Inazuma festival, and the discount ones you bought at cheap prices at Liyue’s markets, were both never going to be eaten anyway.

His hands reach out to snatch the candy greedily from you but you raise it out of reach at the last second. He stomps his foot in childish indignation as you chuckle.

“Sorry, but I need you to bring me back to the outside before you scam me out of any more goodies.”

Finally giving up, he grabs your elbow again and leads you back through the streets. You enjoy the sights as he leads you zigzagging through the stalls.

You can't help but wonder if any detectives are still watching your boring little interactions. Admittedly, you played into the kid's desires more then you had to.

But you couldn't stop yourself from doing so when all you could see in him was yourself when you were that height.

The sun comes into light as the dim lanterns fade away. Like this, you can see his features once more as the stomping of soldiers return.

His eyes scan the area at the sound, but he keeps his hands open for the sweet treats. Smiling, you drop the candy into his open palms before he rushes off with a beaming boyish grin.

Stretching as you walk up the planks to the surface, you finally cross off the last item and drop it into the nearby trash can.

You try to ignore how it disappears when you turn the corner.

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

Time ticks down slowly, and you aren't looking forward to seeing Madam Ping just yet. Besides, you made a long-overdue promise to someone else beforehand.

Starting up at the somewhat hidden Funeral Parlor, you push the door open with a casual; “Hey, I'm here to meet up with the Director of this fine and totally not macabre establishment.”

The receptionist blinks at your sudden words before a cheery voice responds from behind her.

“You sure took your time, Y/N. I almost wondered if you up and died before I got a chance to have you purchase one of our very convenient and practical deals!”

Yet again, Hu Tao was right on the money about you being close to death. Idly, you wonder if you look half as dead as you feel.

The receptionist is more than happy to slip away as her boss bounds up to you with that elemental ghost hovering around her.

Flower pupils stare into your eyes, giving you a vague sense of unease as Hu Tao examines you from various angles. 

“Yup, yup! Just as I suspected. You are in desperate need of escape, and it seems the only way you'll be getting it is in death. My honest suggestion is that you buy a coffin from us and lead a hedonist lifestyle to enjoy the few years you have left.”

“Thanks for the vote of confidence.” You dryly respond as she nods approvingly. 

“A business needs to be honest for it to succeed in the long-term. Trust of the customers is one of the biggest key factors.”

Not willing to argue on a topic you were admittedly clueless on, you follow her deeper into the Parlor.

“Then you got any good deals for a traveling adventurer like me who could be dead halfway across the world?”

She sighs, exaggerating it to the utmost while circling you. “I thought deeply on the topic and while the Wangshsng Funeral Parlor has grown enough to reach all of Liyue and a good amount of Mondstadt and Sumeru, we still haven't grown enough to pair up with each region.”

Passing by multiple doors, your eyes scan for a clue on where she was leading you.

“But considering you're the most eager customer I've had concerning their own death, I decided to present you with a special deal.”

“Wouldn't suicidal people also be enthusiastic in this topic?”

“They're usually more focused on the moment and their own afterlife, instead of the corpse they leave behind. Besides-!”

Whipping around to look at you with a knowing grin, she lays a hand decorated in rings on the handle.

“You aren't that far from being called a suicidal person yourself, Y/N!”

Before you can question her on those words, she swings the door open to show multiple rows of various coffins.

“The special offer I'm giving you is to purchase a coffin and I will personally escort your wandering soul to the border for proper peace.”

Tearing your eyes from the admittedly impressive collection of varying caskets, you have the sense to ask her a question. “So, what's the point in me buying a coffin if my body ends up in the waters of Fontaine? And how could I even trust that you have the ability to escort souls?”

From what you remember, Hu Tao should have no clue about your oracle status, so logically you should act oblivious to her connection with the border. Would you even be able to cross the border? It’s not like you were born on Teyvat like her other customers.

Unless Zhongli told her, but that would require more of an explanation on his behalf that he wouldn't want to do. 

“Very good question, dear customer!” She spins around to face you once more, her long twin tails swinging during the motion.

“Even if your body is irretrievable for whatever reason, the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor will deem your casket full after I guide your soul.”

The atmosphere visibly shifts after she speaks. The room darkens as the lanterns flicker, her back lowers in a familiar position as a cold phantom touch caresses your hand.

“You of all people should know why and how I'm able to guide souls. After all, I wouldn't expect anything less from an Oracle of the Creator.”

A crooked grin makes its way to your face as goosebumps raise on your skin. Hu Tao’s ‘threatening’ words of knowing your identity were like the sweetest song to your ears.

Finally, all your hard work in creating connections and stabilizing your identity has paid off. Acolytes you've barely begun conversing with already see you as an Oracle.

“Should I applaud you or something, Director? Or should I just accept the deal and make us both happy?”

Hu Tao laughs at your words as you take confident strides to stand by her side.

“I would appreciate the second option much more!” Signature flower pupils drink your smiling visage in with delight before her hand grasps yours in a tight hold.

“Now, if you will, I'll introduce all these amazing coffin and casket types for you to ask about and choose between.”

There's no time to protest, not that you would as she pulls you along excitedly as butterflies made of Pyro brush against your cheek.

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

Somehow you and Hu Tao had managed to look at every single coffin type in existence. A style, color and even additional design to it has already been decided.

You're just left with choosing the best wood for it.

Hu Tao wanted to stay with you throughout the whole process, but an important matter came up again, making her complain loudly as she left.

But before she did, she insisted on sending one of her employees to help you in choosing, as ‘the wood is a vital part of the process!’. 

So now you're left waiting in the absolutely quiet room, with only the sound of your own breathing accompanying you.

Looking down at the two coffins made of different wood, you waited for this employee. A small smirk played on your lips as you heard the door audibly click shut.

The thumping of shoes coming closer was silent, but the slight hitch of breath gave away how close your new consultant was.

“White cedar wood and Teck wood are both very fine choices. Though I would consider the Catalpa wood two rows down to be the best choices considering your position.”

Hot air fans your skin as the knowledgeable words spoken in that low timber light your nerves aflame.

Turning around, you look into amber eyes that remain steadfast on your face. His outfit is pristine and there's not a single evidence of the battle he was left to fight on him.

“If that answers your last question for the coffin customization, then would you mind stepping outside with me?”

Waving your hand, you dismiss his words without hesitation. “We can do so after I check out the Catalpa wood you recommended.”

Your head angles to the side to look at him with a teasing grin. “I know it's your retirement, but you of all people should know that rushing a job is never good.”

A long-suffering sigh leaves Zhongli as you walk away to the Catalpa coffin, before he follows you. 

More than happy to kill time like this, you feel the wood under your fingertips in a smooth stripe.

“Catalpa wood was and is still often used as an outer coffin for the jade inner coffin that Liyue officials were buried in. Not only can it be carved fluidly, but it is also very resistant to decay, unlike other ornamental wood. Its stability is quite underrated, with only the drying to be a tad problematic. And even that will be for us to deal with.”

Vaguely you wonder if this information was inserted into the game based off China’s own history or if Teyvat really did age throughout many years to build its own history.

“That’s why I recommended this type of wood to you. While you’re not officially a member of the Qixing or other affairs, your position of oracle is enough to warrant such a valued coffin.”

“Are you trying to convince me to buy it for your job, or are you trying to flatter me for your proposal?”

“You may see it as both, neither, or one of the two. I'm simply here as the consultant. I am to assist you with all of your decision-making inside this building.”

A huff of laughter leaves you before you tap on the casket. “Then I'll go along with what you want and take this wood.”

Zhongli nods, not bothering to write it down as his memory must be far greater than you care to imagine. 

His gloved hand is displayed to you in a silent question, but before you can move, he removes the glove.

Quizzically, you raise an eyebrow before placing your hand on his now bare one. Peering at his face from your place you note the slightest blush on his otherwise composed expression.

Smiling to yourself, you allow his fingers to intertwine with your own as he guides you out of the side door. Following him blindly up the staircase, past a set of rooms, another staircase till you finally arrive at the roof.

Zhongli squeezes your hand one last time, clearly relishing in the touch of your calloused fingertips before letting you go.

“I've waited patiently for you, Y/N. What is your answer to my marriage proposal?”

His eyes stare at yours with unshakable firmness. In a sense, it's endearing, and you make it clear by smiling widely.

“It's a no from me.” That resolute expression cracks and his mouth drops open before it's slammed shut at your bright laughter.

But even his poorly concealed embarrassed expression can't smother the blood rushing to his cheeks as his ears hang onto every addictive note that leaves your lips.

This has taken a long time. Like super long. I haven't dropped this series, just have lots of school work to complete and exams to study for. Like I literally have one tomorrow. My editor did me a solid and highlighted the parts that I had to fill in after I gave the mostly completed document for editing. When I have to write the next chapter, it'll take a bit as I gotta reread for recalibration. Taglist is open as always!

@vvyeislazzy, @nikqi, @the-dumber-scaramouche, @etherisy, @yourlocalstranger123, @ra404, @iruiji, @goldenglow149, @haru-tofuu, @lsleepysimpl, @bebobeboben, @yuyuzi-ling, @amidst-the-tempest, @resident-cryptid, @mxd1zzy, @mochicurls21, @nervouseaglelover, @thedevioussmirk, @yumuramma, @kwqsla, @undecidingfate, @ehjane, @game-savvy, @akiramirae, @liansh3ng, @fluffy-koalala, @formacoon, @sxftiebee, @khxii-i, @ursinaw, @chuuya-brainrot, @sweetbills, @kazuchaos, @snowfoxnix, @bluebelony, @shellofthewell, @pencil-of-ashes, @ghostlyintervention, @taiformaifoe, @goaudduck, @carminerin, @maddysflowers, @zenith-of-all-zenith, @crazydreamcat, @leafanonsforest, @grimreapersscythe, @leylanx, @sapphireknown, @help-whatdoimakemyusername

@zhonglisfruityass, @mer0n37, @victoria1676, @mochinessss, @sinnful-darling, @emilymikado, @pix-stuff, @esthelily, @luxie963, @emmbny, @starsofabundance, @kbar1013, @xxblackroses623xx, @chxrlxtteee, @aludicpoet, @yandematic, @atrcclovsxoxo, @0lshadyl0, @esthelily, @t-rex-red, @ck123, @steadybreadbluebird, @118gremlin, @stratonia, @time-shardz, @farelady-fate, @valeriele3, @francisnyx, @byakuren100, @waveto-earth, @flyingpansaurus, @silverstarred, @iamapotatoe, @ghosthii, @beloveddroplet, @uchihaeirin, @ibelieveinsleep, @idk098, @thefirstonetoeverlikemeback, @toramune, @haaaaaades, @horologiumwise, @melovaaaa, @alittletiredcry, @aphxdea, @atsukawolfcat, @desirabletravel, @pinkpainc, @eccedentesiast-sapphic, @yuyuzi-ling, @hyperfixationwhore

@juuuuuj101010, @avalordream, @kurayamioterasu, @tottybear, @koiikuno, @lynx-of-skies, @quacking-simp, @synthe4u, @kascar-chronicle, @hug4helios, @hug4helios, @silverstarred, @koiikuno, @ithoughtthinks, @remiivx, @lemonade7255

[celestesinsight]

Kalki 2898AD Release Trailer - Bhairava Character Analysis!

There are many theories circulating about Bhairava's character and its importance in the movie. Here's my two cents regarding this. And to be honest, it isn't entirely my views too. It's what we came up when discussing in the Varadeva Discord Server.

First of all, there's a huge chance that Deepika's baby is red herring and Bhairava is the real Kalki. Ashwathama will realise this at the end of the movie and change his stance.

But my favourite theory is Bhairava being Lord Shiva. When Bhairava called himself the 'living legend in Kashi' in the Bujji & Bhairava series, it kind of stuck with me. Who's more legendary than Lord Shiva in Kashi? And the story goes that Shiva gave Kalki the divine weapon, the all-knowing talking parrot and the white horse. Bhairava have all the three; we saw the weapon in the first promo and Bujji's brain and body are the talking parrot and white horse equivalent. if Bhairava is Shiva, he's actually protecting the baby while pretending to hunt him for the Complex as well as testing Ashwathama's determination for redemption. In Mahabharata, Ashwathama was born after Dronacharya performed several years of severe penance to please Shiva as he wanted a son who possessed the strength and bravery of Shiva. So, it would make sense that Shiva aids him in his journey of redemption.

What if Bhairava is neither Kalki nor Shiva? Then what is his character doing in the movie?

"Despite the endless opportunities spanning over the generations, man fails to redeem himself and he never will."

I think this quote by Kamal Haasan's character, Kali is the key to Bhairava's significance in the movie, if he is not the titular character 'Kalki'.

There are many worlds in Hinduism, but our Puranas predominantly talk about the Swarga (abode of Devas), Prithvi (abode of humans) and Patal (abode of demons). There are also three worlds in the film: Complex, Shambala and Kashi. Unlike Puranas, where there were three races inhabiting the three worlds, in the film, the three worlds are inhabited by the humans only.

The Complex is the place where God is banned. They treat Supreme Yaskin as the God. They have conquered the world and taken all the resources for themselves. In appearance, the Complex gives the illusion of Swarga, but it actually embodies the demonic qualities of Patal.

Shambala is the place where they still believe in God and hope for his return to save them. They fight the Complex and their unjust actions. They are safe haven for anyone who wants to escape the hold of the Complex. In appearance, they are an underground society (Patal), but they are actually the forces of righteousness in the desolate world, fighting on the side of God and thus symbolises Devas of Swarga.

Then there is Kashi, the last surviving city. They are neutral. They are neither the evil conqueror nor the righteous warriors. They are humans who are trying to survive in an unfair world. They are not on anyone's side, but their own side. They represent the humans of Prithvi.

"In this world, there's only one side to be on. Your own side."

Bhairava and the bounty hunters of Kashi are the representation of the man in Kali's quote. They embody the qualities of selfishness, greed, and going to any extent to accomplish their goals, without caring about the consequences of their actions.

To be fair, Bhairava isn't doing anything wrong. He's trying to survive in a world which has lost all hopes. But he's so caught up in this mode of survival that he can't recognise this new hope for a better tomorrow, that Ashwathama and the people of Shambala are seeing in Sumati and her baby. All he sees the 5-star bounty that is his one shot at entering the Complex. He's not realising that he's fighting for the wrong side, that he's fighting to keep the old hierarchies intact that had made this world a hopeless place for him and others like him in the first place. He's helping the people who are the cause of all his problems under the illusion of becoming one of them.

Bhairava represents the man who is given numerous chances by the God, but he's so trapped in the Maya (worldly illusion) that he fails to recognise him and hence, is forever doomed to be trapped in the cycle of suffering.

Will Bhairava recognise the truth before it's too late? Or he will handover Sumati over to the Complex?

Bhairava's action would decide if the world is worth saving or not. If God should keep his promise and take birth to save all the humans? Or he should just let the humans rot in the hell, they have turned the Earth into.

The movie is not just about Ashwathama's redemption, but also the redemption of the mankind, represented by Bhairava.

As Kali said, humans have given numerous opportunities by the God to redeem themselves, but they have failed each time. Like Duryodhana failed when he refused to give even five villages to Pandavas, when Krishna asked, leading to his defeat in the Mahabharata war. Maybe that's why Ashwathama is having flashbacks of Mahabharata when fighting with Bhairava. He is seeing his past self in him. When he went against the Lord himself, blinded by his ambition and loyalty for Duryodhana.

Humanity is given another chance. Kali is sure we will fail this time too. It's up to Bhairava now, if humans fail again or they finally succeed in redeeming themselves this time.

[justanothersterekficgirl]

some favourite fics

Emancipation by HarleyJQuin

Mature | 144k | 40/40

There are legends that in times of approaching chaos the Nemeton will create an Alpha Pack. 

Derek has no idea that the worst day of his life was the start of the best thing that ever happened to him. Abandoned by his family, his mother, his alpha, as an omega Derek remained with his comatose Uncle Peter, forging what bonds he could with two humans who fully accept him for who he is. A werewolf.

I Was A Teenage Werewolf by HaleHathNoFury (My_Trex_has_fleas)

Explicit | 456k | 50/50

Stiles just knows he’s going to get lost in the woods. There must be a Laura Palmer reference in there somewhere.

A fork in the road retelling of Teen Wolf where Stiles is the one to get bitten.

Daybreak by TheObsidianQuill

Mature | 70k | 10/10

“There …” Stiles swallowed and looked down at the bottle in his grasp as he slowly swirled the amber liquid inside. “There’s really nothing left. For me. Everyone is … gone, and it feels like I haven’t thought of tomorrow in years.” His words rang in the air like a gunshot, he took another heavy drink. “I would trade every last breath I take to just have another shot—not even a guarantee, just a chance to make things right and bring back even one of them.” —–

The pack was gone. He had nothing left. He had no one. With nothing to lose, Stiles puts everything on the line to go back in time to try to prevent the future from becoming his past. Broken, guarded, and haunted by his past, only one overgrown-pup of a wolf seems able to get past his defenses. Changing the future? Easy. Finding a place for himself in the Hale Pack? Impossible.

Divided We Stand by KouriArashi

Mature | 156k | 29/29

Derek is being pressured by his family to pick a mate, and somehow stumbles into a choice that they didn't expect and aren't sure they approve of....

[lockburn-castle]

⋆ ✩‧₊˚ ꜱᴠᴛ ʀᴇᴄꜱ ˚₊‧✩༘⋆

LEGEND:

⇒ 『✓』 - 𝔠𝔬𝔪𝔭𝔩𝔢𝔱𝔢𝔡 (𝔞𝔩𝔰𝔬 𝔪𝔢𝔞𝔫𝔰 𝔦𝔱𝔰 𝔞 𝔰𝔢𝔯𝔦𝔢𝔰) ⇒ 『📱』 - 𝔰𝔪𝔞𝔲, 𝔰𝔬𝔠𝔦𝔞𝔩 𝔪𝔢𝔡𝔦𝔞 𝔞𝔲 ⇒ 『 ☁ 』 - 𝔣𝔩𝔲𝔣𝔣 ⇒ 『 🗣 』 - 𝔠𝔯𝔞𝔠𝔨, 𝔠𝔬𝔪𝔢𝔡𝔶, 𝔥𝔲𝔪𝔬𝔲𝔯 ⇒ 『 ⚠︎ 』 - 𝔞𝔫𝔤𝔰𝔱 ⇒ 『 ❣︎ 』 - 𝔢𝔫𝔢𝔪𝔦𝔢𝔰 𝔱𝔬 𝔩𝔬𝔳𝔢𝔯𝔰 ⇒ 『 18+ 』 - 𝔪𝔞𝔱𝔲𝔯𝔢 𝔠𝔬𝔫𝔱𝔢𝔫𝔱 ⇒ 『 ➳ 』 - 𝔬𝔫𝔢-𝔰𝔥𝔬𝔱𝔰 / 𝔰𝔠𝔢𝔫𝔞𝔯𝔦𝔬𝔰 ⇒ 『 🕰 』 - 𝔱𝔦𝔪𝔢 𝔰𝔱𝔞𝔪𝔭𝔰 ⇒ 『 ⚛ 』 - 𝔯𝔢𝔞𝔠𝔱𝔦𝔬𝔫𝔰

𖠋 do remember to read the warnings before continuing to read the fanfics!!

🍒 choi seungcheol 🍒

' THE WAY BACK ' - by @suhnshinehaos {✓, 📱, ☁, ⚠︎, 🗣} Remind Me - by @milfgyuu {☁, 🗣} yours, but not yours - by @yuzukult {☁, ⚠︎, 🗣, 18+} get you - by @yoongiseesawmp3 {☁, 🗣} GAME DAY - by @escapewriter {✓, 📱, ☁, ⚠︎, 🗣} His Hoodie - by @drunk-on-dk {☁, 🗣, 18+}

one-shots/time stamps

arcade - by @sweetiesicheng {➳, ☁, 🗣}

👼🏻 yoon jeonghan 👼🏻

DESKMATES TO LOVERS? - by @http-mianhae { ❣︎ , ☁, ⚠︎, 🗣} my guardian demon sucks at his job (not clickbait) - by @shuaflix {☁, ⚠︎, 🗣, 18+}

one-shots/time stamps

such a flirt ! - by @amateurasterism {➳, ☁} Girls Talk Boys - by @drunk-on-dk {☁, 18+} to you - by @shuahoonie {➳, ☁, 🗣} [ 12:02am ] - by @slytherinshua {🕰, ☁} worst neighbor ever (or is he?) ! - by @amateurasterism {➳, ☁} waterproof - by @husbandhannie {➳, ☁, ⚠︎} [11:23 pm] - by @jjuniehao {➳, ☁}

🦌 hong joshua 🦌 one-shots/time stamps

my home - by @shuahoonie {➳, ☁, 🗣} about you - by @shuahoonie {➳, ☁, 🗣} Smitten - by @slytherinshua {➳, ☁}

🐱 wen junhui 🐱 one-shots/time stamps

[ 9:43pm ] - by @slytherinshua {🕰, ☁}

🐯 kwon soonyoung 🐯 one-shots/time stamps

Photoshoot - by @slytherinshua {➳, ☁} my things and yours - by @husbandhannie {➳, ☁} [8:06 AM] - by @thru-the-grapevine {🕰, ☁} just a moment with you - by @husbandhoshi {➳, ☁, 🗣} [02:09 pm] - by @jjuniehao {➳, ☁}

🦊 jeon wonwoo 🦊 one-shots/time stamps

『 tomorrow 』 - by @genezpen {➳, ☁} chocolate rum cookies - by @wonwoonlight {➳, ☁} the regular - by @trblsvt {➳, ☁}

🍚 lee jihoon 🍚 one-shots/time stamps

[02:14] - by @kwanisms {➳, ☁} bags - by @cheolsblackgf {➳, ☁} Half-Baked - by @thru-the-grapevine {➳, ☁}

⚔️ lee seokmin ⚔️

Missing Pieces - by @escapewriter {✓, 📱, ☁, ⚠︎, 🗣}

one-shots/time stamps

and tomorrow we’ll begin anew - by @noramoons {➳, ☁} [20:40] - by @gyu-effect {🕰, ☁}

🐶 kim mingyu 🐶 one-shots/time stamps

restless without you - by @duhnova {➳, ☁} ♡ KICK YOU OR KISS YOU - by @alohajun {➳, ☁}

🐸 xu minghao 🐸

now or never - by @heartkyeom {✓, ☁, 🗣, ⚠︎ } ❝ academic infatuation ❞ - by @berriesandjunnie {☁}

one-shots/time stamps

Hot pot, flowers and fireworks - by @hongnanglen-arina {➳, ☁}

🍊 boo seungkwan 🍊

one-shots/time stamps

Mission Possible - by @thepixelelf {➳, ☁} 𝐚 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 - by @sungbeam {➳, ☁} ☆ OUR LUNCHBOX - by @odxrilove {➳, ☁}

🐢 choi hansol 🐢

LIE AGAIN - by @escapewriter {✓, 📱, ☁, ⚠︎, 🗣}

one-shots/time stamps

[𝟏𝟏:𝟐𝟒𝐀𝐌] - by @sungbeam {🕰, ☁} The Valentine's Day Date - by @rubyreduji {➳, ☁} dropping you lunch at work - by @ssentimentals {➳, ☁}

🦖 lee chan 🦖

one-shots/time stamps

i like you - by @leejungchans {➳, ☁}

💎 ot13 💎

svt season's greetings - by @junkissed {➳, ☁} 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐠𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 - by @heavenshoon {➳, ☁} long distance relationships - by @wooahaes {➳, ☁}

𖠋 to be regularly updated!

part 2 -> here !

[sanjoongie]

Release

✯Pairing: Kang Yeosang x Reader (f) ✯Au: E-sports Au, professional gamer au, mile high club au ✯Trope: established relationship ✯Rating: 18+ MDNI, smut ✯Word Count: 856 ✯Warnings: jealous sex, penetrative sex with no barrier, consensual free use, manhandling, public sex, creampie, aftercare ✯Summary: You piss Yeosang off on the way to a competition and he fucks you miles high in the sky ✯Dedication: @anyamaris the need to write this was high and so here it is for you, darling. thanks to @mejuii & @downtoamagicalland the unholy trinity beta team 💞

“Sang--” Yeosang’s palm muffled your moans, the other hand busy with pinning your hands above your head. His eyes shot back down to where his cock was mercilessly fucking your cunt. “I don’t wanna hear it,” He said gruffly.

Still, your noises of utter pleasure bubbled from behind his hand, unable to keep quiet for even a second while he was fucking you good and hard and rough. 

How did you get in this scenario? Well, Yeosang was an Esports player, a very famous one, in fact. Tomorrow was a big competition for him and you were accompanying him for ‘moral support’ and ‘strategy guide’, read: Yeosang needed an outlet for his stress. 

So he decided to be a nice boyfriend and go get you two coffees before the long flight. You, however, decided to watch his competition. There was a streamer who played mid too, one who you personally enjoyed watching, if you were being honest. So you settled in, planning on studying the streamer’s strategies and typical moves to help Yeosang. It was apart of your job, before you let him fuck your mouth one practise night while training with his team. 

Yeosang wasn’t in the mood to entertain you watching another esports player. In fact, he was absolutely livid when he came back with your order and his, seeing you watching his competition. You didn’t help matters when you teasingly said, “You could never be him, darling… he’s a legend.”

“Sir…the jet’s ready,” A flight attendant intervened at just the right moment.

Yeosang, with your upper arm in a firm group, escorted you to the jet, lips tight with suppressed anger. He didn’t say a word as you walked the asphalt. He didn’t look your way as you two settled into the plush seats. The staff talked to you more before everyone were tucked away into their spots and it was just you and yeosang in the cabin and the plane miles high in the sky.

It took you a moment to realize what was going on when Yeosang unbuckled you and turned your chair towards the walkway. Once he pushed down his sweats, nursing a pretty thick boner, it clued into you that Yeosang was angry but Yeosang was horny.

“I’ll show you who’s a fucking legend--” Yeosang cursed, angrily yanking your leggings down your legs.

“Yeo-Yeosang!” You stuttered, unprepared for your boyfriend to strip you right then and there.

Yeosang shook his head angrily, causing his hair to get in his eyes, only fueling the rage. He pushed your thighs so that you were bent over, leggings and underwear still trapped on your legs. “Better mid than me my ass,” He continued to grumble.

It dawned on you that Yeosang had moved to a head space of simply overpowering you and taking his fucking anger out on you. Which you had already given him the go ahead if he ever needed it. With a quick glance towards the thin doors that separated the cabin from the staff, you moaned as Yeosang sucked on his thumb and harshly began to strum your clit. 

You licked your lips but could find no moisture in your mouth. Apparently it had gone all to your lower lips because Yeosang was grinning angrily when thumb plunged into your eager, wet hole. “Sometimes I think you say that shit to piss me off,” He grunted, pulling his thumb out after making your groan loudly when he touched your g-spot.

“No spindly armed, lazy mid player is gonna replace ME,” Yeosang muttered to himself as he pulled his cock through the slit of his boxer-briefs. 

You whined as he lined himself up with your cunt and pushed forward. He used short, powerful thrusts to open you up, making you squirm with yearning. He slapped your ass, making you squeak. “Stop it, and take my cock,” He commanded.

You watched with bated breath as Yeosang’s face stayed stormy and his thrusts grew choppy as he fucked his tension and frustration and anger into you. You took it all, happy to have inadvertently pushed this on yourself. 

Which brings us back to where you were now: your hands pinned above your head and Yeosang’s hand over your mouth. You knew, by the glossy-eyed look, that Yeosang was searching for his own release and not looking to take care of your own, but his powerful thrusts were sending you over the edge nonetheless. With your pussy clenching down on his length, Yeosang came with an angry grunt, full-tilt deep in you, back arched and head cast back. 

“Fuck, I needed that,” Yeosang sighed, pulling his hat off and pushing a hand through his hair.

When he pulled out, you whimpered as your legs were lowered and you could feel his cum seeping out of your still-fluttering hole. He scrunched up his nose. “I’ll get you some wet wipes.”

You were pretty sure you were about to become a puddle on the floor, let alone be able to walk off this jet, but you had no regrets. Especially when Yeosang came back with a cute awe-shucks grin and some water. Totally worth it.

[beyondthesefourwalls]

I Don't Love You Like I Used To

Summary: After so many years with you, Javy Machado doesn't love you like he used to. He loves you so much more.

Notes: A short little one shot for the Love Is In The Air TGM challenge created and hosted by @roosterforme. This was so fun to write! Javy deserves all the love.

Song Inspiration: I Don't Love You Like I Used To by John Legend. Some of the lyrics definitely make their way into the story near the end.

Pairing: Javy Machado x Reader (no use of y/n, can be read as unnamed OC)

Word Count: 2.3K

Warnings: It's a fluff fest.

---------

You’re sixteen the first time you meet, and Javy is gone for you instantly. He locks eyes on you when he’s running toward the end zone and is so distracted that the football he was meant to catch hits him straight in the head, bouncing off his helmet and into the hands of someone from the other team. Your pom-poms shake when it happens, and that’s when he realizes you’re standing on the opposing team’s sideline in their colors. 

When the game is over three minutes later, definitely because of the interception he caused, he wastes no time in ripping his helmet off and running over to you. 

“Hey!” He yells, trying to grab your attention when he sees you turn to make your way back to the team bus you arrived on. You don’t realize he’s calling after you specifically, so he sprints faster than he had run all night so he can swing himself in front of you. You jump, stopping in your tracks with barely enough time to stop yourself from running straight into his padded chest and sweaty jersey. The little yelp you let out is the cutest sound he had ever heard. 

“Sorry,” he pants in apology, “I didn’t mean to startle you.” 

“Can I help you with something?” you ask. Your voice mesmerized him. He finds himself going a little cross eyed the longer he looks at you, but shakes himself out of it when you raise an eyebrow expectantly. He realizes he ran over here with no plan in mind. How were you making him so nervous already?

“You’re beautiful,” he blurts out. 

You let out a laugh, and he changed his mind. That was the cutest sound he had never heard. 

“Did that ball you took to the head hit you harder than it looked?” you ask, and Javy shook his head so fast he was surprised he didn’t crack his neck. 

“It was why I took the ball to the head. You took my breath away, baby.” 

You smile at him, giggling happily. You shift your pom poms into one hand and hold out the other to him, introducing yourself. Javy takes it and swears he feels electricity go through his entire body.

“I’m Javy,” he says, “but I’ll be whoever you want me to be.”

He takes you for beignets that weekend, holding your hand as you make your way through the French Quarter, and he hasn’t let go of it since. 

Two years later, he decides that getting into the Naval Academy is the best thing and the hardest thing to ever happen to him. You’re sitting beside him on his front porch when he opens the letter. You throw your arms around him and keep saying how proud you are, over and over and over again. But he feels the tears as they seep into his collar and he knows they aren’t just because of how happy you are that he’s part of the slim 8% acceptance rate. 

Because you had been accepted to Tulane, and he knew the scholarship you received there wasn’t something you would ever be able to turn down, no matter how much he wanted you close to him. He would never hold you back like that, anyway. 

“We’ll be okay,” he promises, pulling back to kiss your tears away and stare into the eyes that had captivated him from the very beginning. 

He would marry you tomorrow if it wasn’t for the fact that the academy prohibited him from doing so. He doesn’t have the money for a diamond, so he does the next best thing and slips his class ring off his finger and places it on your own. He’d replace it when he could. 

--------

They’re the longest four years of his life, but he makes it. You both make it, individually and together. You get your degree, and you’re there tapping him out as he earns his place in the Navy two days later. 

He still has flight school and a long way to go, but now you can be next to him. He wants you to be able to go anywhere with him, and you want the exact same. He had put a little bit of money aside from his stipend check every month for the last four years, and it’s enough to buy you the ring you deserve. His class ring stays on a chain around your neck. 

You buy a white dress from a department store and he’s in his dress uniform when you get married in the courthouse in New Orleans the weekend before he leaves for more training. Everything the two of you own is packed in the back of the car you’ve had since your 16th birthday, ready to make the drive to Pensacola with him in the driver’s side. It’s only your immediate family there, and he promises that one day, he’ll give you the big wedding of your dreams. 

“I don’t need that,” you assure him, standing in the hallway waiting for the judge to call you in. You cup his face in your hands, smoothing your thumb back and forth across his cleanly shaven chin. “All I need is you and me, baby. Always and forever.” 

He knows that you mean it, but he swears to himself that this won’t be the last time the two of you say “I Do” to one another, and the next time will be in front of everyone you know. 

It’s not always easy. You’re left alone a lot while he trains, and then when he finally earns his wings, the deployments start almost right away. The first one lasts nearly 6 months, and he feels like he’s missing half of his soul the entire time he’s away. He hates the thought of you in the small little apartment the two of you share all alone. It’s never been easy for you to make friends, and your family is hundreds of miles away. You sound sad on the few chances the two of you get to talk even if you’re trying to be chipper for him. He knows you well enough to know the difference. 

Holding you in his arms when he gets off the ship is the best feeling he’s ever had. He hopes that he’d never have to leave you again, but both of you know that won’t be the case. 

He comes home the next day with a small bundle of fluff with a pink ribbon tied around her neck. You fling yourself off the couch, rushing toward him. 

“Oh my god, Javy! It’s a puppy! Hi, sweetheart!” you coo, and Javy is beaming as he transfers the little one into your waiting arms. 

It’s not the same, he knows, but at least now you won’t be totally alone when he’s gone. 

---------

You had been married for four years the first time he’s seriously injured. He wakes up in a hospital bed in Germany to you sleeping curled up in a chair, holding his hand. There are tear stains on your face and your eyes look puffy, even in sleep.

Hangman, someone who has become his best friend in the last few years, is on his other side. He looks tired, too, but he has his signature smirk on his face. 

“Morning, sleeping beauty.” 

His voice is quieter than Javy had ever heard it, used to the blonde being loud and boisterous at any opportunity. It says a lot about who Jake really is that he’s being quiet now, knowing that the sleep you’re getting is fitful and light. In the back of his hazy mind, Javy wishes other people got to see this side of him.

“Is she alright?”

His wingman huffs out a laugh, shaking his head in amused disbelief. “Unreal. You wake up from almost getting blown out of the sky and the first thing you do is ask if she’s okay? You’re whipped, man.”

“Jake,” he croaks, and the blonde sobers up from his teasing instantly at the use of his first name. 

He heaves out a long sigh, scratching at his chin, “I called her as soon as I could, like you asked. The Navy beat me to it though and she was already boarding a flight. I was there when she landed and brought her here safely. I force some water and some food down her throat every few hours. May have had to pull the ‘it’s what Javy would want’ card a few times for that one, though. She hasn’t slept much, but she’s been out for about an hour this time. When I asked if she wanted to go check into a hotel, I thought her glare was going to actually kill me, no weapons or even words necessary.”

Javy manages a grin, knowing exactly what the other man was talking about. “She’s a little scary sometimes,”

“Yeah, no shit,” Jake snorts, shaking his head. “But she’s been as okay as she can be, man. Worried like hell about you. You got yourself a good one, you know?”

“Yeah,” Javy breathes out, “I know I do. Thank you, man. For looking out for her.” 

Jake gives him a single nod, not saying anything, because he really didn’t have to. It was something the two of them had discussed only once, shortly after realizing the friendship between them. If anything ever happened to the other, they’d step up. Javy would make sure Jake’s mom and sisters were taken care of, and Jake would make sure you were okay. The pact made Javy feel better every time he went up in the sky. 

You startle in your chair, blinking awake from your restless sleep with a gasp. Your eyes find his instantly, and Javy feels a dampness in his eyes that reflects that in yours. 

“Hey baby” he whispers, already reaching his hand out for yours. Jake standing up and excusing himself to go find a doctor doesn’t even register to him, his focus entirely on you. 

“Javy,” you cry, grasping his hand tightly as you stand to lean over him. “Oh, baby.” 

You kiss him gently, mindful of the cuts on his cheek and the stitches on his hairline. A tear drips onto his face and he breathes through the pain to bring a hand up to cup your face in his palm. “Hey now. None of that, pretty girl.” 

“It’s so good to see you,” you choke out, pressing another kiss to his lips. 

“Missed you, baby,” he murmurs, stroking his hand through your hair before he tugs gently on you, wanting you to lay with him. You protest, afraid of disrupting his injuries, but he shakes his head at you adamantly. He wants to hold you. He needs to. It had been too long, and he knew it would help your frazzled nerves along with his. 

“I’m okay,” he promises, “come here, please.” 

When you gently crawl into the bed beside him, the pain becomes an afterthought. He hurts all over, sure, but you’re here with him, and that has always made everything better. 

_______

The two of you spend your 8 year wedding anniversary packing up your apartment in Sigonella, Italy. It’s the fourth duty station he’s had, and by far your favorite. You’re both going to miss it, but a full time opportunity at Top Gun was next on the docket and he’d be lying if he said he wasn’t looking forward to what that meant for his career. Plus, seeing you in the California sun everyday would be an added perk. 

“Look at this!” 

You’re sitting on the living room floor, surrounded by boxes and old newspapers to wrap things in. Javy crawls over to settle beside you, his arm braced behind your back. It’s a scrapbook from your senior year of high school. You’re giggling as you flip through it, seeing picture after picture of the two of you looking over ten years younger. Football games in opposing colors, homecoming and prom, both his and yours, and your weekly breakfast dates over beignets in the French Quarter. It’s filled with all the memories that defined the beginning of your relationship. 

“Do you still love me like you did back then?” you tease, leaning toward him with a faux innocent expression on your face. Javy thinks he falls in love with you all over again at that moment, like he has every day for the last 14 years you have been together. He knows that the love struck look on his face in all of those pictures had nothing on what it looked like now. 

The truth was, he did love you differently. It wasn’t the same juvenile love he had felt the two years you were together in high school, or the longing love he felt during the academy. It had changed as the two of you grew. It was something you both worked at every single day, not without its challenges. You’d been through so much together and you get a little closer as you get closer to your forever. You weren’t in a honeymoon phase anymore and had gone through so many different stages of life. But if he had the chance, he wouldn’t change a single thing. 

He’d been in too deep to run away from you from the very moment he saw you on the sidelines cheering for another team. After all the years together, he knew without a doubt that he couldn’t live without you now. 

“Nah,” he shakes his head, and kisses your lips gently when you raise your eyebrows at him, “I love you so much more, baby.”

-------

Notes: This may be the softest thing I've ever written. Leave it some love if you enjoyed it! 💚😊

[1800titz]

SURPRISE SURPRISE! New Camprry FWB one shot coming TOMORROW (1/29) at 2 PM EST

“Come on,” Harry goads, tutting like her tries are half-assed and she’s not currently exerting her body into creating motions that are simply unrealistic, “Take it proper. You want it? Then take it. Show me.”

Camping is supposed to be wholesome. Camping is supposed to be laughter, and deep, pure breaths of air that scrub out the tainted glaze of city life from the walls of your lungs, sticky like cigarette smoke residue on the walls in a house. It’s hiking boots stuffed with the thickest socks. It’s marshmallows on twigs over curdling flames that lick up, it’s flashlights, and spooky myths and legends verbalized, and more laughter.

Instead, Y/N is camping, and she’s currently barely grinding over inches of Harry’s cock.

“I can’t,” she grits out, frustrated, but it sounds more like a whine than anything with bite.

“You can’t? Sure you can, pet,” Harry grapples over her hip, bracing on one arm in an impressive showcase of athleticism, and manually rakes her hips back over him. It allows for more — more of him, more of his cock, more of his touch. More of him splitting her open and spreading her apart over him. “Just like this, right?”

She’s sure he must be meeting her at least a quarter, if not halfway, though. It all feels like a devious ploy. Y/N whines. He makes this amused sound then, one of those puffs expelled through his nostrils like a half-laugh, accompanied with a hum. And then he pulls out and pumps his hips forward, until he’s flush to her backside, and then reverses and repeats. Three times. He gives her three, good, long, full thrusts, smoothing out to the tip and in to the root until she’s stuffed, just like he’d promised. Then, he presses in all the way and just basks in her heat.

“Better?” Harry asks, but his tone catches on a quiet grunt and wavers in its prior composure. She squeezes over him, really squeezes, and he muffles a groan with the seal of his mouth. For a second, he doesn’t say anything at all, and then the filth spills again. It’s odd how patronizing he can sound, despite the way her cunt so obviously affects him, “Need Daddy to do all the work, is that it?”

[jadeazora]

Today, we got the Fairy-type Miku's banner, pfp, and phone wallpaper from the Project Voltage Twitter!

Our promo gif and storyboard shot for tomorrow's episode! (It's unlikely since they haven't been referenced at all, but I kinda hope that they bring in Raifort again, perhaps having done some research on the Ruinous Legends, the Explorers could steal as a consolation prize. I just want to see them in HZ since they're my favorite minor Legendary group. 🥺)

And the Lear Takes the Lead event reruns today. You know it's an old event when your more modern pairs delete it in one attack each.

[ancha-aus]

Gifted Drabble - NewAgeAU - Sorrow Night and Hopeful Morning

Okay. So. A little bit different :3

As some of you have probably noticed by my reblogs. @spotaus is making their own version for a younger Nightmare with adult gang. kinda inspired by RealAgeAU (clue the name) and well. There is no way i could NOT play with it. Just a tiny bit :3

So here we are. A tiny gift for my friend :3

*-----------------------------*

Ccino rubs his face as he leans against the wall. Thankful the day is finally over.

Calling it stressful would have been an understatement. It had been pure panic when Nightmare had just started throwing up goop in the middle of lunch only for more to melt away from him.

Ccino had been shocked to see someone he recognized at the end and had been frozen.

All in all, they had been very lucky that it had only been them and Nightmare's knights. Ccino does not want to know what kind of damage control he would have had to do if more people had seen it.

Horror had been the first to react. He had easily picked Nightmare up, or more easily as he had shrunk, and taken him to Nightmare's private study.

Ccino had quickly ordered some maids to clean the mess and leftover lunch. Stating there was an emergency that required the king's full attention.

Ccino had reached his study and gone inside to find Nightmare just staring at himself in silent shock. His knights all looked unsure what to do next and Ccino had quickly ordered them to stand watch outside.

He is still very thankful that Nightmare had named him leader of the house which meant that while in the castle Ccino called the shots after Nightmare.

In the end? Nightmare seemed fine. Even the cracks in his skull had been old and healed. Ccino still adviced the now young again king to take things easy and rest before he rushed out to make sure everything is still quiet.

It took a while and some more creative lies but people now just think Nightmare is preparing for an emergency mission adn that everyone is too leave him be.

Ccino sighs as he walks towars his own chambers, located in the nicer part of the castle. A reward for his loyalty and service which had been given to him long ago.

Ccino is ready to sleep. It is much later than he normally retires and tomorrow will be just as if not busier day.

He walks down a hallway when he notices some flickers of light under a door. huh. He follows the slight light and finds the source to be Nightmare's study. None of the knights outside it this time. probably on their usual rounds around the castle.

Ccino knocks twice and waits. silence from beyond the door.

Ccino frowns and leans close to the door to listen "My liege? Are you still in here?"

More silence before a quiet come in sounds from the room. Ccino steps inside and finds Nightmare behind the large desk. Many papers and scrolls covering it as he looks from one to the other.

Ccino frowns as he walks over. Nightmare glances at him before looking back at the covered desk "I thought you would be asleep by now?"

Ccino feels his teeth tug upwards towards a smile "And I thought the same about you... I thought i told you to rest?" he stops by his side and glances at the desk.

It is all old script on the old prophecy and legends concerning the apples. That disasterous ritual that must have ruined many lives.

Nightmare rubs his socket, he looks tired "I need to figure out what happened... what went wrong... Nothing. Nothing ever spoke about the apple taking the power given back. It never spoke about anything concerning it." he points at some script "It speaks about the apple given the ability to gain power. to gain more magic like its own. I thought that that was the tentacles and stuff. But they are gone and nothing speaks of it disappearing!" he puts his skull in his hands as he stares down.

Ccino can't help but just stare at his king. Actually seeing how small nightmare now looks behind the desk. in the chair made for a king who had been given power by the ritual.

Ccino frowns as he sits on the arm rest and waits.

Nightmare glares at the text "It doesn't say... it doesn't tell me how to fix this... how do i fix this? how will people react to this?! my standing as king is already shakey. How will they react to their king now being a child?!"

Ccino remembers the screams of pure agony when Nightmare first ate the apple. How he had fallen to the ground as the magic started to reform him in front of everyone.

Ccino thinks he doesn't want nightmare to go through that again. but first "You are tired nightmare."

Ngihtmare shakes his skull "I just need to figure this out and... and find a way to... to turn it back again."

Ccino nods "or. you go to bed." he stops himself from rubbing the much smaller skull. a thing he used to do when he babysat Nightmare when he had still been younger before the apple. "Sometimes things look worse at night than they really are." Nightmare glares at him and Ccino grins "I mean it. It is because we get tired and our mind grows tired. We aren't able to think rationally anymore and react more from our emotions. You need to get some sleep and you can try thinking about it again in the morning."

Ngihtmare frowns but sighs as he nods. Ccino helps him clean his desk a little before walking him back to his room.

Finding Cross outside. standing alert and waiting. He spots them and gives the usual guard bow "My king." Cross gives Ccino a nod before he stands alert again.

Right. Ccino will need to figure out what to tell the knights. none of them know nightmare like this and Ccino is worried they may end up leaving or worse.

Nightmare disappears into his room and Ccino turns to leave towards his own.

"Are you sure it is him?"

Ccino stops and turns back to Cross. Cross is frowning at him.

Ccino nods "I am."

Cross frowns "How?"

Ccino rolls his eye lights "Because I know Nightmare. Something i thought you four would by now as well." and he leaves.

Ccino hopes that with the slight dig it will compele their competitive sides to stick around and figure out how Ccino knew. Get to know this version of nightmare and see he is still the same guy. just smaller and younger.

Ccino gets back to his room and sighs as he lays in his own soft bed. He ends up laying awake for a while as his mind worries about everything that could go wrong.

eventually he falls asleep. his sleep fitful.

--

His alarm goes off early, before the sun has risen even. Ccino groans and rubs his sockets. shit this is why he tries to go to bed on time and leave the last night cleanup to others.

He yawns as he gets ready and dressed for the day before making his way towards the kitchen.

The castle has two kitchens. one is for the preparations of the large meals. which includes parties and the meals for the servants. The other, much smaller kitchen, is for the more private meals.

Ccino gets there and gets out some cooled dough which he starts to knead and prepare. he makes thin sheets of butter and layers it carefully with thin layers of dough.

Ccino had quite a few priveledges but also duties. one is that he is one of the few who is allowed to prepare food for nightmare unsupervised. his knights are the other ones.

nightmare is still worried and afraid of a betrayal and ccino had worked hard to gain his trust and faith.

The layers are complete and Ccino looks through the fridge for some filling. he grabs some raspberries before he notices some chocolate. crap he will need to figure something out for Error as well. make sure they don't lose their royal mage over this slight change.

Ccino will make some special chocolate croissants later and bring those to him as he shares the news. butter him up wiht sweets and reassure him that nothing has to change about Error's job and position. the teen really likes chocolate so Ccino hopes that is enough.

He rolls the layered dough around the raspberries in nice little croissant shapes before putting them in the stone oven to bake. in the meantime he peels some pears and oranges with care before cutting them into nice pieces. he puts it on the plate and grabs some milk from the fridge and fills a glass. Nightmare will have to start drinking and eating things to help his growth and healing. just in case he needs to recover after losing the corruption.

the croissants are ready and ccino plates them, leaving a few to the side for himself to eat later, before making his way towards the chambers.

He quickly spots cross and nods in greeting. Cross however stops him and smiles "I will bring his breakfast inside. I am sure you are busy." and he glances to the side.

Ccino frowns at the guard. strange. the don't normally offer that. much prefering to let ccino deal with having to wake up nightmare for the day.

Ccino studies the guard and notices that cross looks a bit nervous for some reason.

Ccino makes sure to look unimpressed "I much prefer to make sure he eats a bit before i continue with my duties." and he waits.

Cross looks more nervous but sighs as he steps aside. clearly giving in.

Ccino frowns at him before he opens the door and quietly steps inside. his voice is barely above a whisper to start with "good morning my liege."

Then he sees it.

Killer is asleep in Nightmare's bed as he holds the other protectively. a book open by his side. Ngihtmare lays rolled up and is holding unto killer's shirt tightly.

Ccino shoots cross a look and cross looks highly embarressed "Night- I mean. our king was nervous and just wasn't falling asleep. I got worried and wasn't sure what to do so i called Killer because he was here the longest. Killer wnet inside and he and nightmare spoke softly before killer just laid down with him and grabbed a book to read with nightmare. They fell asleep aroudn the same time and i just dind't want to interrupt their sleep as night- our king looked like he needed it badly." Cross looks to the side and mutters "I know i should ahve called you but i knew killer was awake and i knew you would be asleep by that point so.... yeah."

huh.

Ccino walks over to the bed and places the tray with food down. he sits down carefully on the bed and ignores the threatening aura that killer puts on. killer no doubt woke up to someone getting near and is ready for a fight.

instead ccino very carefully nudges nightmare "nightmare?"

nightmare gives a sleepy mumble before shooting him the stink eye. heh. Nightmare never was a morning person.

Ccino grins "I am sorry my liege. Do you wish to remain asleep for a bit longer?"

ngihtmare consider it for a moment and yawns before answering "Yeah."

Ccino nods "Very well. I will make sure that you have no appointments today in that case. your breakfast is here for when you want." he gets up and waits for a moment to see Ngihtmare hum sleepily before going back to sleep. leaning heavily against one of his trusted knights.

Ccino looks up and nods to killer beofre going towards the door.

Cross is still looking down embarressed. Ccino shoots him an amused look after the door closed "You cna just tell me next time. I could have prepared his breakfast later." he crosses his own arms.

Cross frowns and looks to the side "it is just... we are guards and guards shouldn't be this close and it is disrespectful."

Ccino raises a brow "You aren't just guards. you are his knights. his personal knights. of course he is going to trust you four above anything else. It is your duty to be there for him and protect him. The fact he is now a teen and may rely more on your four for emotional support as well is something none of us expected." he sighs as he says the next sentence "something we will obviously need to discuss as well. see if you four are okay wiht it and extra duties that come with this change, however long they may last and-"

cross glares "we don't mind!" he cringes and glances at the door before making his voice quieter "we know things are different and well things will change but just because he is now younger doesn't mean we aren't loyal anymore."

Ccino stares at him before grinning "good. honestly. much better. I was already worried i would have to figure out if there was another position to put you four back in instead of personal knights. deknighting is very looked down upon and could hurt nightmare's reputation. but if you four are still up for this and will remain loyal? well, all the better."

Cross looks shocked before nodding and going back to standing guard

ccino gives him a look "Who is going to switch with you?"

Cross mutters but answers eventually "Dust should be here soon."

Ccino nods "good. make sure to rest before you try any training. you have been up all night and standing the whole time." he gives him another look before turning and wlaking away.

He has quite the list of tasks for today to work through. formost is making sure nightmare cna just rest today. At least the knight situation is mostly stable and already taken care of.

As ccino had told nightmare the night before. sometimes the things that were scary in the night turned out to be just fine in the morning.

[loloraturaart]

My friend's kid is running a one-shot for his friends tomorrow, and he's come up with all these penguin characters for them. I was delighted to draw them for him because he is the best kid. Also it’s his birthday! Happy birthday you not so little legend.

[mrs-johansson]

Escape from LA - Lisa Manobal x Fem!Depp!Reader

Part 5:

The last show in New York was here in no time. I was happy and also a little bummed about it because I enjoyed every show in Madison Square Garden but I was glad to have 2 weeks off and then go to the next city. My birthday was tomorrow also and what better way to celebrate than go to a Blackpink concert?

But before that, I had one last run in New York. While getting ready I was just really quiet trying to store all the energy for the night and be very electric. I will be presented with a Banner Dedication so it’s gonna be fun.

About half an hour into the show I was sitting in a chair in the middle of the stage at the piano. I was speaking before and the next song was New York on the setlist so I needed a few seconds just to settle in and have a more relaxed demeanor. But then the crowd started singing. I didn’t hear what they were singing because of my earpiece so I took them out and then realized they were singing Happy Birthday.

My mouth fell open and tears immediately welled up in my eyes. The smile on my face was so big that my face hurt and when the crowd was lit up with a big light I saw that everyone was holding a paper with Happy Birthday written on it and a gray heart that I always use. I was so happy and filled with joy as the tears slid down my cheeks.

When they finished singing I took a deep breath and tried to get rid of the huskiness in my voice from the crying then spoke into the mic. “Ah, you guys are the most beautiful people out there. Thank you so much!” I wiped off the tears from my face. “I love you all so much you don’t even know. This means a lot!”

The show moved along pretty fast and the next thing I knew was that we were on the last song. I was taking a water break when another voice rang through the arena. It was Jimmy Fallon. “Y/n Fleur Depp everybody,” he said and my eyes shot to the side of the stage where he walked out from. The only thought running through my mind was What is he doing here?

“Jimmy? Hi!” I said, genuinely surprised that he was on the stage. “Hello buddy,” he walked up to me and we shared a quick hug before I looked backstage’s way trying to find out why Jimmy Fallon was on stage. “You’re surprised, aren’t you?” He asked and I nodded with a smile. “Yeah, I don’t know what’s happening,” I chuckled a little nervously. “Well… I received the unbelievable honor to say thank you to you and to say how incredibly proud of you I am. We all are, right?” He asked the crowd who cheered very loudly. “Thank you,” I smiled shyly, now knowing what this is. “These past two weeks you’ve been giving your heart and soul to the people of New York but actually you’ve been doing that ever since you put your first song out. You are electric. You are dazzling. Your music gives us joy and you give us joy. But most importantly you are inspiring. Y/n you are one of the most impactful people in this generation,” said Jimmy, and the audience expressed their agreement with loud applause. All I could do was smile like an idiot already getting emotional. “And we know it’s not a surprise but we have a little something for you,” he said and then a line of light went straight to the banner with my name on it. “15 consecutive sold-out shows in Madison Square Garden! You are officially the youngest artist alive to ever do that,” Jimmy spoke excitedly as I just kept staring at the banner being pulled up to the top of the stadium. Tears rolled down my cheeks for the second time that night. My name hanging next to Billy Joel, Phish, and who else but Harry Styles. Insane moment. “You made over 250.000 people sing over the past two weeks and we enjoyed every minute of it. And there’s no denying it, you are a legend already!” Hearing Jimmy’s words I stopped looking at the banner for a moment and hugged him again. “Thank you so much. It’s an honor to have this presented by you dude,” I said without a mic just trying to soak in the moments of this evening. “Of course buddy. You’re amazing!” He said then I cleared my throat and turned to my fans.

“Thank you so much.” I bowed in front of the stadium. “This is absolutely insane and surreal. I only say a few words because I don’t want to talk too much…” I wiped away a tear that bothered my eye. “There are no words to express how happy every one of you makes me every single day. Your support is something that makes me feel and live. Without you, there wouldn’t be 15 nights here or a single show in the world, so thank you from the deepest parts of my soul. I'm forever in debt to every single one of you. I love you endlessly.”

***

The alarm next to my bed was going off for the fifth time this morning. But finally, I decided to wake up and start getting ready to leave for California for the first time in a while. I was very excited but at the moment I was more tired than excited.

My phone was going off all day, getting birthday messages from basically anyone who had my number. I answered my family and my close friends then left the others till I had time to look at them.

I left the hotel pretty quickly. By 11 am I was already on the plane, trying to get some sleep. Thankfully I slept through the whole 6 hours of the flight so I will have enough energy for the concert.

Got home and Lily was coming over so I had some food then she arrived. We picked some great outfits and while that we listened to music getting in the mood for Blackpink.

“So how are things with Lisa?” Asked Lily as we were finally on the way to the festival. “Everything’s good. I’m excited to see her finally. We’re still getting to know each other but it’s fun,” I smiled and Lily gave me a weird look. “What?” I asked and she shrugged. “I didn’t say a thing,” she insisted. “You made a face.” “It’s just you know that a relationship will definitely won’t be an option,” Lily said and I glanced out the window and then back at her. “Who said anything about a relationship?” I asked and she sighed. “I just hope you know what you’re doing.”

Once we got to Coachella, Lily and I met with some friends, just chatting with people who we knew. Lily went off to find her girlfriend, Shake, so I sent Lisa a text that I arrived.

me: hey, I’m at the backstage area. Are you getting ready already?

Rosalía was currently on stage so I was watching her perform from the TV at the tent. My phone buzzed in my hand but before I could open the text, arms wrapped around me from behind.

“What’s up, Birthday Girl?” The voice I only heard over the phone for the past weeks was by my ear now physically, I looked up at Lisa smiling and I got up from the couch and immediately wrapped my arms around her waist and hugged her tightly. “Careful, we’re filming for Blackpink’s YouTube,” she whispered and I looked for the camera and spotted them right away. “Mhm,” I cleared my throat and let her go. “Are you nervous? I’m so excited to see you perform,” I said as I turned my back to the cameras and also tried to speak quietly. “I’m so nervous,” said Lisa, and I smiled gently. “Come on, you will eat this up,” I brushed my hand along her arm. Lisa sighed, still looking anxious. I reached towards her and brought her into the friendliest-looking hug, hoping she would get a little more loose and be more excited than nervous. “I’m so happy you’re here,” she whispered and I couldn’t contain my smile. “Me too.” “Come on, let’s see the girls,” she pulled me to their trailer.

As we stepped into the trailer she said something in Korean and all three girls turned their heads towards us. “Hi,” I smiled widely and we all greeted each other and they introduced me to their assistants and managers. We sat around the lounge area just talking and catching up. Lisa got up to get herself something to drink and then sat back next to me. She looked very out of the conversation, just fidgeting with the water bottle. “What’s up?” I leaned closer to ask her and she shook her head with a soft smile. “Have you eaten today?” I questioned because she seemed like the person who won’t eat if she’s nervous. “Yeah…” Lisa was clearly avoiding eye contact and I sighed. “Come on, let’s get something to eat. Do you guys want anything?” I asked the rest of the people in the trailer and only Rose asked for something so it won’t be hard to remember.

We walked around the backstage food trucks, looking for anything comforting for Lisa to eat. “You don’t have to worry about anything, you know? This is your thing, you were born for this,” I bumped my shoulder to hers and she let out a soft chuckle. “You still haven’t seen me perform.” “But I’ve seen videos and my sister also told me. I’m just excited to see it live finally. And not just me, everyone will be at your show,” I said and she smiled. “It’s gonna be insane,” said Lisa. “Yeah, it will. Best way to spend my birthday honestly.” Lisa laughed at my comment but I just spread my arms. “What? It’s true. It’s kinda unfair that you’ve already seen me perform twice,” I smirked. “It’s kinda unfair there are so many people around,” I felt her fingers brush along mine and I laughed. “It’s a shame, yes, but we’ll have enough time. Two weeks seems like a year these days,” I said and she nodded. “Is your boyfriend coming?” I asked and she shook her head. “He’s busy, but it’s better that way.”

Found the right food place, and we got our meals and for Rose. We made our way back to the girls’ trailer, then Lisa looked at her phone before handing it over to read a message she got.

Rosie💩: we all went to look around

Rosie💩: the trailer is free

Rosie💩: LOCK THE DOOR!

I laughed at Rose’s text and gave Lisa her phone back. “Like we would do anything bad,” I said and Lisa looked at me with her eyebrows raised. “We won’t?” She asked and I chuckled, wrapping an arm around her waist and bringing her closer to my side. “Forbidden things have a charm to them.”

[rebouks]

I'm using simblr gratitude day as an excuse to take a leaf outta @akitasimblr's book n' do a sunday faves/crushes style post to appreciate some of my fave blogs i scour for updates on the reg 👀 believe me, the list is 100x longer than this but it's 23:40 the night before cos i ran outta time and y'girl is tired AND stuck in the office tomorrow sdkjskdj...

@simlit - for the one of the most unique takes on a "bc" i've come across, with interactive polls and all! great character building too.. and impeccable screenies/worldbuilding 🤤

@lynzishell - for the cutest, realest characters i feel like i could be neighbours with, i bet i could barge in and join em for dinner and they prolly wouldn't mind 🤭 but also 'cause ur so sweet and supportive and ily <3

@citylighten - for a grittier story with complex characters, amazing shots and a dash of crime-.. oh and lots of hot, hairy men (not u, Ben) and strong women that tickle my pickle.. i need to see more Pietro soon or i may cease to exist skdsk

@rainymoodlet - for the hottest man tiddies on simblr and the most ridiculously ambitious bachelor challenge EVER, idk how ur keeping it together Shan but we love u for it and i can't wait to see who wins Dan's heart and the journey's all the lil pixels you've adopted have along the way ;-;

@akitasimblr - not only for the wealth of positivity you bring to simblr in general but your various gameplay/challenges that regularly liven my dash, and your unbridled love for my pixels too.. it's very special to me and so are you! 🤧

@zosa95 - for the queen of the cookies!! 🍪 and also because you created Edith, the legend.. and because Gemma & Markus are back and i love them as much as i love youuu.. your insightful comments (among some others in this list that may or may not result in a slightly chaotic comments section more often than not 👀) give me so much joy and so many of you make my day with ur support :')

@natolesims - i love ur approach to storytelling via the nsb challenge and the way you combine the silliness of the sims with the real emotions of the characters u create with it.. i always find myself checking in on Grey to see what he's been up to 🤭

@treason-and-plot - one of my faaave ts3 blogs, i'm obsessed with your characters and your writing! i'm forever on my toes waiting to see what happens next 👀 and the fact that u and those that follow/read along still have so much fun with ur story gives me so much hope that i'll still be here long after.. whatever the hell comes after ts4 😌

like i said.. there are so many of u i could list here so pls just know that ily all and could find a million and one amazing things to say abt you all if i only had the time! <33333

[ivystoryweaver]

Spectre

A Moon Knight Halloween Love Story

Event #5: House at the End of the Street

prev | Fic Masterlist | My Masterlist | next

Event #5 Summary: There’s a glaringly big issue. You’re dead and you really want your partner. In every way.

Pairing this chapter: MK system x f!reader

Word count: 3.5k

Content: angst, a reminder that this fic is nsfw, mdni! p in v, mentions of oral and other very suggestive thoughts and talk, all the yearning, ghost probs (no body), language, probably inaccurate DID (show based)

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PREVIOUSLY on "Spectre"...

Jake’s eyes were fluttering closed, his head dropping to the pillow.  “I’m so tired, but I don’t want to go to sleep.”

“Why not?” you asked, blinking innocently.

“Because...” another sigh, “I’m afraid that when I wake up, you’ll be gone.”

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"Spectorr!" Barney called over the usual Triple B's morning bustle.

The door's bell jingled as Jake pushed his way inside. He tipped his hat, greeting the oblivious owner, as Barney summoned him down to the side register. "Usual?"

As Jake bypassed several other customers, Barney noticed not only the flat cap, but a particular jacket and black gloves.

"Buenos dias," Jake flashed a grin.

"Mr. Lockley," Barney grinned. "Apologies. I'll get those hash browns started right away."

"Gracias," Jake shot back with a chuckle.

"Haven't seen you in a while, kid. How you doing?" Barney asked sincerely, getting to work on Jake's café au lait.

"The answer to that question is the fact that I'm here, Barn," Jake shrugged.

"Right, right," the older man nodded, his dark eyes shining with sympathy. "Still...how you holding up with things? Marc said he's having some trouble sleeping. Worried about you boys."

"I would tell you, but you would probably think I'm crazy."

"Whoa, now," Barney cautioned, "Your girl didn't let you talk like that. I'm not about to either. What's going on? Haven't seen Marc in here for days."

Jake wasn't really the care-and-share type. But Barney had a way of disarming everyone.

Besides, Jake wasn't exactly a pretentious fellow. He had nothing to hide.

Leaning in over the counter, Jake glanced around him and lowered his voice. "You believe in ghosts?"

Barney folded his thick arms over his round tummy. "You for real, Lockley?"

"I saw her. Talked to her. So did Marc." He kept his voice just loud enough to be heard over the hiss of the griddle and the bustle of morning customers.

Barney's eyes went wide. "You serious?"

Jake shrugged again. "Told you it sounds crazy. Why do you think Marc's not sleeping? Why do you think I'm here?"

Right then, Jake's order came up. "Figured it was for the café au lait." Barney winked, handing over the to-go hash browns and beverage. "On the house."

"You're a legend, Barn," Jake gave a little salute.

Taking his bag and disposable cup, he ventured back out into town - the town you'd loved so much. It was typically Marc and Steven walking these streets, living in daylight. Jake enjoyed the dark - his car, the noise of the city - the mystery of it.

But he loved you more. So an adorable bungalow in this little town was the life for him.

But now you were gone.

Today, he would work Marc's hardware store shift. He didn't mind. Hopefully Steven would show up for his library shift tomorrow. Sitting in a silent environment filled with old books was about like watching paint dry, at least for Jake.

He had a pleasant day working with his hands. He half expected to hear from one of his alters in various shop windows, but his walk home was quiet - adorned only by jack-o-lanterns, oversized cobwebs and the crunch of leaves under his boots. Then he happened upon the "Mystic Delights and Other Charming Novelties" shop, where Ms. Marjorie was waiting in the doorway, as usual.

"Lovely evening," she called. "Mr...Mr. Lockley, isn't it?"

Jake removed his hat and pushed his fingers through his hair. "Don't think I've had the pleasure, Ms..."

"Ms. Marjorie," she returned. "I'm an acquaintance of Mr. Grant. I won't keep you if you're busy. Just wanted to say hello."

Jake nodded, intrigued by the strange old woman. "I'll, uh...I'll tell Steven you say hi. Nice meeting you."

"He told me a little, you know - about her. I'm sorry for your loss."

Jake normally wouldn't discuss his home life with strangers but he knew how to read people. Kindness lingered behind her eyes. The corners of those eyes crinkled with a sympathetic smile. "Goodnight, dear."

Jake nodded. "Buenas noches, Señora."

A bluster of wind swirled around Jake as he pulled his cap back over his curls.

The rest of the walk home was uneventful. Even Mrs. Nockles didn't magically appear to force a conversation. No, Jake walked all the way to Elm Street without incident. He thought he might eat a little something and then take a nap before working in the city tonight - both jobs.

He wanted to get back to the things that were his: the car, the darkness.

And he wanted to see you. He half expected you to be sitting on the bed once he climbed the stairs to the bedroom to change clothes. Even after a shower and that nap he was so interested in - nothing.

He finally got dressed to head out to his actual job, pausing at your front-porch-photograph hanging outside the bedroom in the hallway.

"Te amo," he whispered, swiping one finger over your pictured hair before pulling on his gloves.

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The next morning, Steven woke up late. Not surprising, given that Jake was out most of the night.

You were there, perched on the end of the bed. You had become aware of yourself - conscious - while they slept. You watched your partner resting, longing to talk to him. And wondering if you would be seen once they woke up.

Steven saw nothing.

You followed closely behind him as he brushed his teeth and got dressed, sighing in defeat as he walked out of the bedroom, pausing by your picture in the hallway.

"'Mornin' my love," he softly greeted. "Miss you so much today. Almost feels like you're here. Guess I was a bit too hard on Marc. Might be going a bit bonkers myself. Thought I saw you in the window the other night."

You rose (floated?) to your feet, wishing with all your non-corporeal form that you could run to Steven and shake him.

"Steven, I'm here!" You called out. "Wait, please, I'm right here!'

But he left. You couldn't follow. You could never follow. Anytime you tried to leave the room you only ended up back in the Dark Place.

It happened a lot. It was like it took a lot of focus and energy to stay in this room.

Steven came home tired and oblivious. Ms. Marjore and Mrs. Nockles had invited him in for sandwiches, but he could barely keep his eyes open. He never lifted his gaze to find the bedroom curtains rustling. And of course, he couldn't see you there, waiting on the bed.

But the following morning, Marc did.

Steven had fallen into bed by 7pm, and Jake was exhausted from fronting. They slept all night, leaving Marc feeling quite refreshed.

Rubbing his eyes, he sat up in bed only to see you there on the end, waiting for him.

"Oh shit," he hissed, in surprise, running his hands over his face to make sure his eyes weren't playing tricks on him. By this point, he expected you to murmur some tortured nonsense and float out the window. But you scooted closer, seeming quite yourself.

"Marc?"

His dark eyes blinked and then narrowed, scrutinizing you for a moment. Was he dreaming?

Your head dropped in defeat when he failed to answer. "You can't see me," you lamented.

"Sweetheart, yeah. I can see you. I see you."

Your head snapped back up, making your hood fall down. "Marc," you breathed. "Hi..." You weren't sure what to say. You didn't want to scare him again.

"Hey," he softly returned, pulling back the covers to slide closer to you. "Don't leave, okay?"

"I won't," you quickly assured him, momentarily distracted as your eyes flickered down to his bare chest, trailing down his soft tummy, over the tantalizing bulge hidden by black boxer briefs. The thin fabric barely wrapped around his thick thighs.

Ahem.

"You’ve been gone. I missed you," you told him, eager to have a real chance to talk to Marc. "I'm so sorry I was scaring you. I wasn't trying to."

"I know, baby," he quickly nodded. "It's okay. I just..."

Your gazes locked.

His dark eyebrows shifted as he studied you quizzically...almost hopefully. “Jake said you talked to him for a while. That you seemed…clearer.”

You nodded eagerly. Feelings were still strange to you, but you were sure you felt relieved that Marc wanted to talk with you. That he wasn’t so traumatized by your presence.

He scooted closer - so close that, if you had a living body, your thighs would have been touching. His eyes studied you so carefully, with such tender regard, you were almost certain he wanted to kiss you.

“Is it true that you can’t leave this room?” He asked you, his voice tinged with sadness.

You chewed where your lip used to be, thoughtfully. “Yeah, I don’t think can leave. Not that I can remember.”

On instinct, he reached for your hand, but came up empty.

“Marc, I…I’m sorry.”

“‘S okay, baby. Not your fault.” He granted you a tender smile, but pain lingered behind his eyes. “You really weren’t downstairs the other night? In the living room, in my chair?”

Your eyebrows shifted in confusion. “I was sitting in your chair?”

“No, I was,” he explained. “You were sitting…well, on top of me.” Marc scrubbed the back of his neck with his hand.

So cute.

“I was sitting on top of you in your chair?” You repeated, blinking innocently. “What was I doing on top of you?”

Marc chuckled sheepishly, his dark lashes kissing his cheeks as his gaze dropped.

“Jake said you saw me naked,” you went on. “Was I naked, on top of you?’

This was too adorable. Marc Spector was blushing. “I, uh…I had too much to drink, I think. Probably a dream.”

“Was it a good dream?” You whispered, drawing his gaze back to you.

Marc peered at you openly now, his eyes locking on to yours. “You remember the seventh inning stretch?”

Oh, that.

Marc used to watch baseball games in his favorite chair. Occasionally, you watched too. Sometimes you were upstairs writing in your loft. Eventually, you would venture down and ask Marc how much longer til the game was over. He would always promise you he’d come upstairs during the seventh inning stretch - which, on television was simply another commercial break.

If Marc ever needed any convincing, you would simply appear in the living room wearing nothing. Once you had his attention, you would climb on top of him. Sometimes you were sure Marc pretended to ignore you just a little too long for the express purpose of you crawling on top of him in that damn chair and giving him a good ride.

You had a lot of good times in that old chair.

“I guess it had to be a dream,” he reasoned, pulling you from your reverie. “Damn good one.” Then he repeated something Jake had said. “You’re still so beautiful.”

You...swallowed? Your eyes fluttering down to Marc’s perfect, full lips, which he was presently moistening with his tongue.

What was going on? You were dead and he was very much alive. What kind of a ghost had…desires?

You were staring. Blatantly.

There were definitely more important issues than attraction right now, but Marc couldn’t help the way he responded to you. He loved you as much at this moment as he ever did when you were alive.

“Marc, I… it’s probably not fair to you, for me to be here like this. I mean…I still love you. But you…you should - "

“Do not say I should move on,” he warned, tearing his eyes from yours. “Don’t even think it.”

You found yourself speechless for a moment, which concerned him. Maybe you would become confused again, and disappear.

“Baby, I’m sorry. I’m not mad, just - don’t go yet, okay?” His voice broke as his eyes shone with moisture. “Don’t leave me just yet.”

“Hey, I’m here,” you soothed, drifting to stand in front of him. Peering down at him earnestly, you wondered how a dead vapor of a woman with no pulse and no heartbeat could feel such a burn in her chest - such a gut-wrenching longing.

You were presently dead. That was a fact. Which meant you were haunting Marc. If you kept this up, it would only hurt him. He would never be able to move on. But before you could figure out how to express your concerns, he beat you to it.

"I'm worried about you," Marc quietly confessed, his fingers toying with the vapor that was your hand. This small action both soothed and electrified you somehow.

“About me?”

“Yeah,” he whispered. “Jake said you don’t know where you are, or why you’re not with your parents. I’m so sorry.”

You didn’t answer - your face simply twisted as it was prone to do when you were carefully thinking, or sometimes, writing.

Marc would often find you in your loft, staring at a blank screen, your precious face twisted in thought.

“You’re stuck on a detail, right?” He would sweetly interrupt.

It was always true. You knew the outline of your story - where you wanted to go, but you would fuss over the details of the overalls your character wore, or how a strand of hair fell. Marc would help you zoom out and keep your eye on the big picture. Get the rough draft down. Be objective.

Steven would go through first and second drafts with you. He could spot continuity errors or suggest the slightest detail to brighten a paragraph.

Jake didn’t work with you too often, but he would take your manuscripts out at night with him and read them in his car. Jake always had a emotional suggestion. Even though you wrote children’s books, he would ask questions about their motivations.

“My 3 editors,” you would call them. You took their suggestions quite seriously, sometimes to the bewilderment of your actual editor.

Marc’s voice softly pulled you back to the present moment. “Sweetheart? You’re drifting away.” Peering down at him, you saw his eyes wide and worried.

“Marc?” You whispered. “Did I…was I gone just now?”

“No,” he confirmed. “Just quiet for a few minutes. I thought you might not come back for a while.”

A smile warmed your face. “No, I was remembering. It was…nice.”

After that, you and Marc got back on track - discussing the darkness and where you might be - why you weren’t at rest. You talked through some theories. Maybe this was the afterlife? Your bedroom - the place where you lived so much life, ate so many breakfasts-in-bed, sweetly conversed while moonlight streamed through the window.

Where your lover had held you in his arms, on his chest while you slept. The place filled with passion, heated lovemaking - night after night, tangled together in the sheets - the heavy length of him inside you…the press of his hips pinning you to the mattress.

The thickness of his thighs caging you in as you took him into your mouth, or the mess of dark curls between your thighs first thing in the morning.

Steven’s soft whimpers against your breast as he would suck you there.

The way you would pull Jake into bed by his tie at 4 am, end up with his gloved fingers stuffed deep into your pussy and his flat cap on your head. The tie would eventually secure your wrists to the bedpost and then you were in for it.

There wasn’t a thing you wouldn’t try with your partner and you loved every second of it.

The filthy words Marc would breathe on your neck as he would take you from behind.

He loved to find you half asleep, waiting naked for him to finish the baseball game. He would slide under the covers and pull you close - kiss a trail down the side of your neck as your legs fell open for him. Thick fingers slid between your folds to find you wet already.

Marc would lazily roll your clit between his thumb and finger -that sensation alone elicited lust filled moans that would make him instantly hard. You were already coming by the time he slid inside you, cupping your mound - pushing you down into his upward thrust.

This is how he fucked you for the last time. You whimpered and moaned and begged for more. So he gripped your hips hard enough to bruise, pulling you up on all fours. Standing on his knees, he slammed into you from behind, but you wanted it harder. Harder.

You came again, blinding hot pleasure making you shriek as your back arched and your cunt gushed hot and wet all over him. He gathered you close as you murmured his name, begging him to stay inside you until he was hard again.

You fell asleep hot and wet and joined, and he slowly, deeply fucked you awake as the sun rose for your last day on Earth.

So maybe this was heaven.

You heard Marc calling your name once more.

“Sorry…I was remembering again.”

“I know, sweet girl,” he choked out. Looking down at him, there on the edge of the bed, you realized his cheeks were flushed and he shifted with the slight discomfort of a man with an erection.

“You were talking about the last time we were in bed together. In detail. Like...writer's detail.” His dark eyebrows shifted curiously. “You don’t remember?”

“I…said all that out loud?” If you had an actual face, it would feel hot right now. “Shit - I’m sorry. I guess I was just wondering if a place with so many good memories could be…heaven.”

This sobered Marc a little. Pushing off the bed, he…readjusted himself before raking a hand through his hair. He paced over to the window, giving you a delicious view from behind, before he whirled on his heel, back to you. “Lot of good memories, yeah.”

You eased over to him, reaching out. All you wanted was to feel his arms around you. When you came up empty, you saw his beautiful eyes moisten as his throat bobbed.

How could this be heaven if Marc was sad? And how could you share any more of those precious or salacious moments if you couldn’t touch him?

You just gave him an erection, for fucks sake.

"I'm happy, you know," he said softly, "if you drift to a good memory instead of the dark. It's...not something you need to apologize for. I'm glad for it."

"But you're sad," you whispered fervently. "I'm hurting you. Just by existing, I - "

"No," he hissed. "Don't say it's better if you're gone. Please just...don't fucking say it."

"But, Marc, I - "

The way his eyes flashed gave you pause.

"I better not list the house for sale," he murmured, mostly to himself. He ran his hand over his chin thoughtfully before finding your gaze once more. "I'm not gonna leave you here."

A breath you would never actually breathe caught in your chest, where your lungs should be. "You were going to sell the house?"

His head dropped, almost shamefully. "Babe, I...I'm not like them - Steven and Jake. I don't...adjust to things. I can't look at your pictures the way they do, or even talk about you..." He sniffed as his voice cracked with emotion. "This house isn't the same without you in it and I thought...I thought I would just - "

"Run," you interjected. "You thought you would run. Because Marc Spector thinks he can run faster than his pain, or punch it out of someone else."

He physically withdrew as your words stung him. It was delivered with more candor than you intended.

"I don't mean to judge you, Marc. I'm sorry, I..."

"No, you're right," he admitted. Marc knew what he was. He was just...made wrong. "Steven loves it here. It's his home. And Jake's at home anywhere his car is. Or we are. Steven and me. But I...I can't...can't seem to get myself together. Shit."

He shook his head, tearing his fingers through his hair. "Listen to me. What the hell am I even talking about when you're the one who..."

"You're grieving," you spoke softly. Sweetly. "There's no right way to do it. You're not wrong to need a change. You're not wrong to be angry. I know I am."

Marc nodded, feeling awful for somehow making this issue you were having about his pain. Pathetic. "I'm so sorry, sweetheart. What can I do?"

"Marc, hey...look at me?" You wanted him to stop for a second and just be with you. He complied, the pain he felt pulling the corners of his mouth down. The wrinkle you used to smooth away with your fingers appeared between his thick eyebrows.

"Take it easy on yourself? For me?"

Easier said than done.

"And...and maybe don't sell the house just yet?" You barely managed that request in a choked whisper. "If this is the only place I am besides the dark, and...and you guys leave then, I'm afraid - "

"Of the dark," he solemnly concluded. Reaching for your hand again - pointless, though it was, he made a vow. "Baby, look at me. I will never leave you here alone. Never. I promise you."

You nodded, certain you could feel a warm reassurance washing over you. "Thank you. I love you so much."

"I love you too. Always."

Next

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[ursawastricked]

Distracting: Part 5

The Sun Chaser: An annual, 24 hour work day in the lab, used to catch up on any missed work time from the past year..and this is your first year joining Viktor and Jayce for it..armed with an ungodly amount of caffeine, excitement for time with his lab partners, and a crippling sense of shame for his newly found intimate thoughts of you, Viktor will try and make it through an entire day without thinking of you in that way again..at least not with you realizing..

Wordcount: 3,366

WARNINGS: Alcohol, mention of sexual acts, but mostly fluff and light flirting so have fun! part 1 part 2 part 3 part 4

After another long shower, the third one that night, washing, rewashing, trying to scrub away any of shame that still coated the extent of his being. It had soaked far below his skin however, and had settled somewhere in his stomach, somewhere he couldn't run over with a loofa. But he would be damned if he didn't try. He stood in the kitchen, towel wrapped around his shoulders as he poked at some over cooked eggs on his plate, making every attempt to eat them as fast as possible after they had made a particularly squishy sound, and only further added to his shame. Oh that awful noise,

“Viktor, are you crying over your eggs?” Jayce asked, leaning on the counter edge, successfully getting Viktors attention as he had been hunched over, head in his hands for about five minutes at this point.

“What? No..just thinking” Viktor replied..in all fairness it was not a lie. He wished it was, because honestly not thinking right about now would probably save what was left of his sanity. He glanced at Jayce, taking what he realized was a coffee being offered to him, an offering he eagerly consumed, hoping it would jolt his brain into working order.

“Are you getting excited?” “For what?” “The Sun Chaser..” Jayce spoke the words like it was a legend, and in a way, it was.

The Sun Chaser, an annual tradition in The Hextech Lab. It was one, twenty-four hour work day, no sleep, non-stop make-up day, to push themselves ahead just a little bit and catch up on any work time lost over the last year. It was a night filled with workshopping, junk food, drinks..an ungodly and probably severely unhealthy amount of caffeine. But it was one of the pair's favorite nights of the year. The mixture of constant work, and sleep deprivation always made for a good time, lots of bonding, not to mention many many hours of laughing at jokes that probably aren't actually very funny.

“The Sun Chaser? Is that tonight?”

“Tomorrow, we have to prep Vik” Jayce chuckled, patting his shoulder and shaking Viktor a bit. “So you should get dressed, we need to go shopping. Here I made the list for this year,” Viktor glanced at Jayce, who held out a small folded paper, which he promptly plucked from his hand. He hummed to himself as he unfolded the paper, glancing over it for a little sneak peak into tomorrow's events. “Energy drinks, instant coffee, pastries, sweet milk,” he sighed constantly, already excited for that last item. “Booze, lemon juice..salt..what is all this extra stuff Jayce? Why would we need booze, a-and lemon juice?” “Oh,” Jayce blinked, uttering your name under his breath. “Yes..what abo-” Viktors sentence stopped in his throat..of course. You will be there tomorrow too. Of course you would, how on earth did he forget, “And..they asked for this? Why?” “Why said something about how booze would be fun as it got later, lemon for a chaser, and salt for before.” “They want to do shots?” “Sounds like it..oooo maybe they want to try body shots-” Viktor was quick to stop that idea, with a swift hard kick to Jayces leg. “OW!” Jayce howled out, quickly following it with a loud laugh as he saw that Viktor was now covering his head, shielding his entire upper body against the counter top.

“Oh this is going to be the best year yet!” Jayce cheered, shaking Viktor hard  by the shoulders with a loud huff of excitement.

The clock rang twelve o'clock, and with it Jayce banged an obnoxious fake gong with a loud howl into the empty lab, you followed suit with your own, egging Viktor join in as well before you all took one long sip from individual mugs of coffee. The usual starting ritual for this thing, with one extra person this time around. “Hell yeah! Let's do this!” You call, quickly rushing to your notes and starting immediately, Viktor laughed, watching as you scattered away and quickly began his own work. A very pleasant beginning to the Sun Chaser.

Five hours in,

“Viktor! Viktor, can you come help me with something?” You asked, holding together two wires, observing how they resulted in a small spark. You heard the familiar click of Viktors cane against the floor before you felt the warm sensation of his body leaned over your shoulder looking down at your work. “What is it?” He asked, glancing down at your current project. You turn to meet his gaze, finding him much closer than you already had expected. He met your gaze, about half an inch between yourselves. Your cheeks grow warm, your mind stalling a little in its tracks as you watch his face stare back, maybe a little more surprised than you. He cleared his throat, catching your attention away from where it had settled on his lips. You flicker your gaze back to the device you have noticed was now smoking just a little from the unstable wires touching. “Oh shit..” You mutter, ceasing the connection. From next to your ear you hear the familiar sound of Viktors chuckle, right before he reaches over into the device.

“I see..You need me to hold these while you weld them together?” He assumed, but you again were not paying any attention, your mind a bit foggy from the smell of Viktors collogne wafting off of him. “Yes..” You whisper, finding yourself out of breath. You try again, inhaling and rephrasing the reply “Yes, you need to hold them for me okay? D-don't get burnt alright?” You remind him. And again you fight away a shiver when you can feel his chest rumble with laughter behind you.

Needless to say it took about ten minutes to finish the melding of the wire, all the while Jayce sat back in his chair, watching you with a familiar smirk. “Cute..” He muttered to himself, writing down a note in a little black notebook.

Nine hours in

You were eating your dinner quietly, a moment of shared silence while you took a much needed break. Viktor had taken liberties with the word “break”, hence why he was currently jotting down a theory he had in an almost full book of notes. But then the slightest movement caught his eye. He turned his head to look toward you, catching the tail end of your shiver.

He watched as you brought your hands up to your bare arms, rubbing them for some needed friction, the slightest bit of warmth. And before he could think too much about it he walks over, coat in hand before tapping your shoulder,

“Are you cold, děcko?” he asked, putting a hand on the back of your chair. You barely lift your head from your food to give him a little groan, rubbing your arms a little more furiously. “It's cold..” You reply quietly, resulting in a soft smile from  Viktor. He nudged you with his coat, offering it to you,

“Here, until the heat comes on '' he said quietly, handing you the coat which to your credit, you stole away faster than he expected. In nearly half a minute you stood in front of him, hugging the coat around your form. It fit around you rather well in all honesty..but god this was a mistake.

Your body was perfectly tucked within something of his..he could feel his stomach tightening. And with the length of the fabric, it almost looked like you were not wearing anything under it- he needed to walk away. And so without a word, he walked away, very fast, to the bathroom, leaving you to settle back into your chair with a new found sense of warmth. Meanwhile, Viktor took the next fifteen minutes to try and cool down in the locked bathroom. Fifteen hours in

“Okay, okay, best shitty pick up line go!” You were all sitting around, about two shots in each. Jayce pointed to you first, “Go go go!” he chanted, watching as you chased your shot with an energy drink.You coughed a bit, tapping your chin as you tried to pick one, “OOOh I have it ok..” You turn to face Viktor, giving him a lightly goofy smirk, one you couldn't hold without giggling, “hey Vik..are you a triangle? Because, you would be acute one,”“What?” Viktor chuckled, watching as you nearly lost your mind giggling, leaning back against the floor as he began to mirror your giggles, “That..truly was terrible.” He sighed, sipping his drink and leaning back against his hands and watching as you began to wildly gesture to Jayce,“Ok now you! You go!” Jayce jumped at the idea, and quickly grabbed Viktor by the shoulder to get his attention, “Viktoooor..” Vik lazily turned his face toward his lab partner, raising an eyebrow inquisitively. “Do you have a bandage?” “No..why Jayce?” “Because I scraped my knee..falling for you~” Jayce cooed, leaning closer and swiftly giving Vik a kiss on the forehead before he pulled away, the three of you all bursting into tired laughter. Viktor took a brief moment, watching as you held your aching stomach, your hair splayed out on the ground around you like a halo..he couldn't begin to think about how pretty you were before Jayce caught his attention again. “Ok, Viktor..your turn. Best, shitty pick up line..go”  Viktor blinked, trying to filter through any he had heard, at this point his memory was a little foggy, and now with booze in his body, he was having a harder time thinking of any he would consider particularly"shitty ".He grabbed hold of your forearm, with a little effort, hoisting you back up into a sitting position. You snickered lightly, leaning closer as he kept a firm hold on your arm, gazing into your eyes with a passion that had your belly fluttering. “You look familiar..did we have class together?” He asked, his accent thick and breath smelling of the rum you had been sharing. You give one soft chuckle, tilting your head in prep for the rest of this surely crappy punny joke, “Because I swear..” He leaned a little closer, your nose scrunched..but you didn't pull away, “we had chemistry.” He hummed, drawing out the end of the word a little and leaning close enough that your noses brushed briefly, right before he pulled back. You felt your cheeks burn, and you stared forward at him as he took a leisure sip of his mostly empty drink. His gaze flickered off you, toward Jayce who groaned loudly, “BOOOOOOOO!” “What?” “BOO that was gold, I said shitty!” Jayce protested, sending you to his side of the argument, “Yeah that was so good! BOO!” Viktor laughed, putting his hands up to defend when you tossed an empty can toward him, weak enough that it just bounced off him. Jayce watched as you both continued your little scuffle, a few kitten bats here and there as you debated what exactly made a pick up line, a good one. He quietly jotted down another little note, smiling softly to himself when he caught You and Viktor leaned over, laughing toward each other, your hand using his shoulder to support yourself.

Twenty hours in

Viktor was so exhausted at this point. His mind was barely functioning at this point, so he was working on auto-pilot, which meant only his hands and eyes worked in full. That's probably why when you asked him if he had an extra screw, he didn't respond in english..not fully. It was a mix of his mother tongue and a few english words half slurred in there. “What?” you giggle, leaning closer. He lazily leaned sideways to hear you better, “Hm? jenom chvilku..I will..” He sputtered off after that. You chuckle slightly, stealing some of his empty cans of soda away so you could sit closer on the desk. “Jenom..” You try to repeat. Viktors brain gets the little spark it needs, one that brings a little more consciousness to him and he turns to look at you, still tucked in his sweater and leaning a few inches away from touching him. “What was that?” He asked, putting a hand on your head to keep it from laying on his shoulder..at this rate he knew it would completely turn his brain off if he could smell your hair. “I'm trying to speak your language. You sometimes mutter under your breath while you're working, and it always sounds really pretty.” “Well, your accent is atrocious..” He chuckles, resting his cheek against his hand as he watches you mirror his posture again..it was becoming one of his favorite of your habits. “You need to stop enunciating so harshly..Jenom. Chvilku” He purred, saying the words slowly for you to repeat. “Jenom chvilku,” you chuckle, trying to mimic his accent. “What does that mean? Does it mean something pretty?” Viktor shakes his head slowly, his smile plastered on his face as he watches you exhausted form slump over the desk, “It means ‘just a moment’,” he replied, “something pretty would be ‘něco hezkého’, if you meant that literally” “I didn’t, but that still sounded nice” you mutter, smiling toward him. At this point the sun had risen again, but Viktor in his ever nocturnal nature had drawn the curtains, allowing for the softest golden glow to invade the lab. The gold color played well of Viktors features, his chiseled cheekbones glowing lighty, and his eyes almost the color of the lighting..it was warm and soft, sending a buzzing feeling into your chest. One you were only partly aware of how mutual the feeling was. “Do you want me to keep talking?” He asked, bringing his hands back to his work. His gaze flicked between yours and and his project,“Yes please,,” You mutter, resting your head on your folded arms, watching as he fiddles with the machine, letting his voice filter through your brain and numbing it beautifully.

Twenty-four hours in

You were out. Your head was heavy against the desk, your chest rising and falling in a calming rhythm, one that Viktor had been observing for the past hour. A full day of working had passed, just about, and he had finished all he needed too, even fixing one or two of your projects up for you after you had fallen asleep. Jayce was sprawled out on the couch, watching the clock and trying to finish his calculations. Though he had made sure to keep check on you and vik as he worked. Viktor was slumped over the desk, watching you sleep lazily, a dumb smile on his face as he fiddled quietly with your relaxed hand still laid out on the desk. He was gentle..simply fluttering your fingertips under his, experimentally brushing them against your palm from time to time. Your skin was soft, and while your cheek was flushed with exhaustion, all he could do was focus on how lovely you looked. The sun had snuck its way into the lab, and dotted along the desk, warming your skin and highlighting the shine in your hair. It was bliss, the kind that had him humming a little song from his home, imagining that he was singing to keep you asleep. It was a brief moment, a perfect ending to the long day in his humble, love sick, opinion.“Watches her sleep..” Jayce muttered, scratching down the note in his book. Viktor raised his head, swiveling it toward his lab partner to see him jotting down something again.“What? What are you doing?” “Adding to my list,” Jayce replied simply, giving Viktor an innocent look..one Vik was able to see past instantly. “What list..” He muttered, standing and taking a firm hold on his cane as he limped closer. Jayce chuckled, hiding away the contents of the notebook like a teen girl hid her diary, “It's private! Kinda, if you still wanna play the clueless act” He laughed, leaning away as Viktor went in to snatch it from him eagerly. The boys played this game for a few minutes, one minute Jayce offering the book, before pulling it away again and adding to an ever more impatient Viktor, who was now too curious to let something like this go. “You have been writing in this thing for the whole day-” “I've been writing in it way longer than that,” “How long?” “I don't know, a few months?” Jayce shrugged, trying to do the math with what little was left in his tired brain, that is when Viktor was able to steal away the notes, snatching them and leaning away from a weak attempt to get them back. He flicked open the small book, reading the first few lines, “What could you possibly be taking note of? ‘Pointed out a bruise on their thigh’, ‘fixed his hair’, Jayce what is thi-” Viktor lost his words half way through, his tongue feeling heavy as his overworked head began to place memories together..notes..he was nothing interacts between you two? Why? How many things have been written down? His eyes widened, ‘spent the entire party staring at them, and then stole a champagne glass they used’. His cheeks flushed, a mix of rage and embarrassment filling his exhausted body almost enough to spill over and lash out if his weak body would allow it. “Y..you have been taking notes? Why?”

“Research..thought you would wanna keep track of each little detail for later” “Jayce this is improper! Taking notes on my interactions?” “Theirs too,” Jayce corrected, watching as Viktor gave him a confused look, he pointed to the index on the first page, “Red is interactions you initiated, blue is when they initiated”

Vik looked  at the pages, flicking through them quickly and indeed..seeing a mix of red and blue scrawled across the pages expances.He took a brief moment to read over some, ‘Stared at Viktor while he tested the Hexclaw’, ‘Asked if Viktor liked milk in his tea’ His cheeks flushed lightly, flicking through a few more pages before the pair heard you stirring at the desk.

Your head felt heavy, like it was full of rocks. Not only that, but your ears rung, as your eyes watered in protest of your current consciousness. It was not a good idea to be awake right now, however you had found that a desk was not a comfortable place to rest, despite how cozy Viktor seemed to make it look.

“Guys..? Is it over? Did we do it?” you ask, turning your head to look at your lab partners. You for a brief moment can't make out what is happening, seeing only a blur as Jayce struggles to his feet, and Viktor hurries to put his hand in his pocket. When your vision clears, you see them looking at you, a little too surprised for your liking. “What..?”

“Uh..nothing! Nothing! Just..packing up” Viktor barks out, rushing to grab the things still left on his desk. Jayce follows suit, packing his bag at a speed that leaves you trying to catch up,

“OH!” Jayce suddenly pipes up, interrupting as you try to wrestle your notebook into your bag, “You're still sleeping over at our place today right?” He asked. Viktor froze..his hands stalling over the zipper on his satchel as his mind tried to double check what he was hearing. ‘Sleeping over…at our place’..

Fuck. 

You were. 

Two days ago, while planning for The Sun Chaser with you, Jayce had offered for you to crash at their shared apartment the day after, seeing that your apartment was much further from the lab, it would be best to sleep in their apartment and not risk passing out on the way home.

“Yeah! I got my pajamas packed and ready in my bag!” You reply, smiling as you start to make your way to the door, following close behind an exhausted Jayce, and behind you..a much more awake Viktor.

A very awake, and very screwed Viktor.

TEEHEE HEE thank you for reading part 5 HEHEHEHEHEHEHHE, oooo shits going down next time gang, bro cant find his shit anymore @zaunitearchives @astralkiss @mackbethart @theseuscloud @g4l4xy-qu33n @ears-queers-gears-n-fears @thymesoup @cheeriecherrymain​ @saumspam​