#lightheartedly and fondly and full of love of course

[greenlighted]

adding on, also love to imagine that james and sirius were also each others first kisses for similar reasons? like sirius being like harry and knowing that he likes girls but he also knows that the way he feels about remus is not the way he feels about james or peter and if he's going to be having these sorts of feelings then he has to be absolutely sure about it, and there's not a soul on earth he trusts more to help him figure it all out than james. and james who would light the world on fire for sirius has no issues snogging him silly to help him out. james, who's not particularly nervous about his first kiss and who doesnt really think he likes boys (...sure) but who just wants to practice with someone he feels comfortable and safe with for when the real deal rolls around - he doesn't like feeling out of his depth and doesn't want to learn something so intimidate with just anybody.

sirius thinking the golden trio being each others first kisses is absolutely hilarious and proceeding to tell harry he snogged his dad. multiple times

hc that the golden trio were all each others first kisses in fourth year. harry knew that he liked girls, but he was noticing he couldn't stop staring at boys like draco malfoy and cedric diggory and viktor krum and being nearly oblivious to the concept of bisexuality. hermione was nervous from her interactions with viktor and worried, maybe a little subconsciously in some ways, about having her first kiss with someone she doesn't truly care about and isn't completely comfortable with. ron is starting to become interested in girls and dating and feels inferior about his near total lack of ability to navigate either of those things and just wants to get it out if the way so he can stop falling all over himself about it. there's nobody that they trust as much or feel as comfortable with or love as much as each other and there is not a single thing they wouldn't do for each other

[lavendermin]

Your Jing Yuan breeding kink hcs saved me, thank you, thank you (I too, want to be pampered and taken care of by Xianzhou Luofu's kind, handsome and strong general without having to think about paying taxes or rent)

Jing yuan breeding kink brainworms going crazy chewing on my brain cables to make me short circuit. ANON IM GOING INSANE. Just thinking about him again made me black out as I wrote this whole thing. It was supposed to be a simple short answer but well… here we are…

—

Jing Yuan, your sweet and delightful husband who discovers his breeding kink (perhaps even a pregnancy kink, the night is young and we’re all insane here). It starts off innocently and then slowly trickles into a little obsession— sexually repressed old man who is centuries old discovers kinks! Wow!

cw | smut, minors dni, breeding kink, pregnancy, just jing yuan discovering his nasty side idk what to tell you

There are a few colleagues around who are in some stage of their pregnancy and soon headed into maternity leave. Being the general, of course he has extended his congratulations and well wishes to them before they’re off for a few months. The ladies in turn cannot help but prod if he has children of his own.

Surely, it should be well-known fact… maybe? He is quite the private man despite his high ranking position. No one aside from a very few select individuals even knew of you being his wife for the longest time. Never even knew the General was dating anyone.

So they can’t help but be curious, “General you must know what it’s like. Haven’t you children of your own by now with your spouse?”

He only smiles and chuckles fondly. The first seed of want, now firmly planted in his subconscious. Oh how the expecting mothers dote on him and say his children surely must look like the spitting image of him. All fluffy, silvery hair and kind eyes (Do they assume he’s the only one making them? What about your genes?). And he has to unfortunately let them down with amused, gentle smiles that, no, he has not had children.

Yet, some part of him whispers. A part that lays dormant for now.

The seed of desire takes root when he’s home with you and you’re fussing lightheartedly over Yanqing’s attire. Worrying over the young boy being out too late and skipping lunch. He wonders when it became so natural for you to fall into step as a mother-figure for his retainer. In little things, he notes. It’s not outright but it’s enough to make him pause and take it in. Chew it and over think it— let it linger in the back of his throat like the burn from a fine drink.

A mother… The thought is fleeting— a whisper unheard and carried with the breeze as Jing Yuan idles next to you in the gardens of his home.

Those next coming nights, for weeks on end, Jing Yuan is plagued with dreams of pressing himself deep within you. He fills your womb, whispering praise and prayer to your ear as he desperately begs you to bear his children. It’s something so carnal and raw and desperate he wakes up with a start, body drenched in a sheen of sweat and a throbbing erection. He’s panting lightly, having to go to the bathroom to sort out his little… problem in the middle of the night while you’re sound asleep, none the wiser to your husband’s evolving desires.

He doesn’t know what’s more torturous— closing his eyes and dreaming of breeding you until you’re both incoherent or looking at you while you sleep, daydreaming of your soft belly rounding out as the months ago by. Hips soft and just noticeably wider, breasts plump and full, and you’re glowing and–

Aeons, he’s hard again for the 3rd time that night.

The general, respected and composed and perfect, coming undone—untouched—at the thought of you having children with him. Part of him is a little distraught but, he thinks, he just loves his wife that much.

And he’s not wrong.

When he has you gasping and begging for release under him on the rare occasion he has time to love you how he wants, it devolves into fucking you into the mattress with a wild look in his eyes. Honeyed gaze watching you plead and fall apart under him as he now practically has you folded in half, his large hands sinking into the plush of your thighs as he presses them to your chest.

Usually he opts for pulling out and finishing on your tummy, but that night it’s like the aeons are working against him (or maybe with him? Lan the wing man, who knows). You’re begging and clawing at his back as he pounds into you approaching his climax— pleading and slurring your words of please please please Yuan inside– I want– I want it inside please please hurry h-harder please!

You’re playing with the thin strand of sanity he has left. Any semblance of decorum and gentle, vanilla husband is not worth it if it’s keeping your womb empty. But Jing Yuan will spoil his wife always and foremost. If it’s what his wife wants, he won’t hold back.

[astral-express-family]

Wedding fic! the drawing is still in progress but i do have this <3 as usual, fic will be utc

Dividers came from here

Taglist, since i actually remembered this time: @violetsareblue-selfships, @silver-heller, and @aego-philautia

Aslia hasn't gotten much sleep. When she finally gets to sleep, it's nearly two in the morning. And of course, she wakes up at six-thirty am. Lynette's still cuddled against rose, her arms wrapped snugly around Aslia's torso. Aslia just laughs softly trying to let roseself relax. It's hard, though, considering the date. August 17th. Her and Lynette's first anniversary, and also their wedding date.

“Mmm… already awake, firefly?”

The sound of Lynette's voice, admittedly, makes Aslia jump. She replies with a laugh and a warm, “How am I supposed to sleep, knowing today's the day we finally get married?”

Lynette just laughs, warm and affectionate. She says, “Well, the ceremony’s not until three this afternoon. Let's try to get a little more sleep, hm?”

And it works. When she next wakes up, it's to Lynette climbing out of the bed at almost ten o'clock. “What's for breakfast, love?” ro asks as she climbs out of bed herself.

Aslia, unable to argue with this point, just nestled herself back into Lynette's embrace and tries to fall back asleep. 

“Knowing my brother, he probably has made us a full breakfast spread just so we didn't have to do it ourselves on our wedding day,” Lynette replies casually. Aslia laughs, and shakes her head fondly. She replies, “Yeah, sounds like something Lyney would do.”

When they leave the bedroom, hand in hand, they find that's exactly what had happened. Lyney is standing in the kitchen, surrounded by fresh pancakes, sausage, bacon, hash browns, and eggs. When he sees them he greets them with an excited, “Ah, there are the lovebirds! Good morning, and perfect timing! I just finished making you guys breakfast!”

Aslia and Lynette sit down - Aslia’s plate loaded up and Lynette’s plate with a smaller but still substantial amount of food. The two of them sit in the breakfast nook, cuddling up against each other. Lyney cleans up the kitchen then takes his leave, saying, “Well, I’ll see you at the wedding.”

After breakfast, it’s time for them to go. Aslia has to go meet up with Chiori, who had designed rose wedding dress and is in charge of rose makeup.

“About time you showed up, Aslia.” Chiori greets.

Aslia just smiles. Chiori just huffs affectionately, and tuts, “Well, let’s get you in your dress.”

The dress isn’t anything too elaborate, fancy but not overly so. It still takes a few minutes to get into the dress, but it’s so worth it. That’s what Aslia thinks, at least. She thinks it looks beautiful. Chiori did a great job with the design, Lynette will love it, she thinks. Once Aslia’s in the dress Chiori pushes her gently into a chair, and starts or rose makeup. It’s a known fact that Aslia isn’t super fond of makeup, so Chiori keeps it light. A little bit of eye shadow to bring out the color in Aslia’s eyes, some lipstick to highlight her lips, and a little bit of blush to add some color to her cheeks.

“There we go. Your mother should be here soon, to walk you down the aisle.”

Aslia nods, standing up. She gives Chiori a tight hug and says, “Thank you, Chiori. I appreciate you putting in all this work for me.”

Both too soon and not soon enough, it’s time to walk down the aisle.

Chiori again just huffs affectionately, but hugs back.

A few minutes before, she meets up with her mother figure, Ningguang. Ningguang is wearing a nice dress, formal yet simple. Aslia gives her a tight hug, and lightheartedly says, “Mama Beidou’s here, right? And let me guess, she’s still grumbling about feeling old?”

Ningguang laughs. “Right you are, Aslia,” she says fondly, “Beidou is indeed lamenting how your wedding makes her feel old.” Aslia's laughing at that, a smile on her face, “I'm sure Kaz is sick of hearing about it.”

“Indeed. Now, your love and her ‘father’ have probably reached the altar, so let's be off.”

So Aslia, dressed in rose wedding attire, links her arm with Ningguang's. The music swells as Aslia walks through the crowd full of Aslia and Lynette’s closest friends and family. Ro is to avoid scanning the crowd, looking forward instead. Lynette is standing next to her brother, dressed in a fancy suit. Aslia can feel her face getting red.

Because he's her best man, Bennett is also waiting there. When she and Ningguang get to the front, she drops Ningguang’s arm and takes her place at the altar.

The flower girls, Aslia’s adopted daughters, are standing at the front of the crowd in their matching dresses. Diona looks somewhat comfortable and relaxed for once, which makes Aslia smile. Sayu, meanwhile, appears to be falling asleep. Diona nudges her, causing the younger girl to startle awake.

The ceremony passes quickly. The best part, in Aslia’s opinion, is when they finally share their first kiss as a married couple. Bennett and Lyney are cheering from their places next to the happy couple, and most of the audience cheers and claps.

After Aslia takes rose place, the ring bearer comes down the aisle. The ring is being carried by Aslia’s adopted son, Chouji. His suit matches Diona and Sayu’s dresses, and he mostly just looks happy to be included.

Then, it's time for the reception. The catering comes from one of the finest kitchens in Fontaine. Dinner is a fairly simple affair, the guests chattering amongst themselves. Lynette and Aslia, meanwhile, sit at the head table and talk. Aslia takes Lynette’s hand in rose own, holding it tightly.

Then the first dance.

The finest live band possible starts playing, and Aslia walks with Lynette to the dance floor. Neither of the two women are great at dancing, but neither of them mind. They're giggling as they dance, and Aslia feels her heart swell with love. This is her wife now. Her wife!

After the dance floor opens to all guests, the happy couple begin to mill about.

“So, what's it like being married?” Aslia startles at the sound of her older brother’s voice. But then she just casually smiles, saying, “Feels good, Kae. I did marry the love of my life, after all.”

Kaeya laughs fondly, picking Aslia up and spinning rose around. Diluc, Jean, and Barbara are all standing nearby, all smiling. Aslia hugs the other three as well, squeezing them tightly. Then she says to Jean, “Hey, who's in charge of the Knights right now? Given that most of the authorities are here right now, I mean.”

Jean chuckles, and Kaeya outright snickers. “I have a couple of the more trustworthy knights in charge, I'm sure the Knights can survive for a few days without Kaeya, Lisa, Amber, Eula, Albedo, and I.”

“Yeah, they’ll be fine,” Aslia laughs. Her attention is then drawn by the sound of wind. The wind races towards her, before Aslia finds herself with an armful of her youngest child. She holds Sayu tightly and fondly, spinning her daughter slightly. Diona and Chouji are close behind. She greets them, “How are you doing, kids?”

“Lynette had better treat you right, or she’s gonna pay!” Diona proclaims, her hands on her hips as she huffs.

“I promise, I’ll make sure to treat your mother with the utmost care.”

They continue milling about, spending the evening and into the night talking to their loved ones and dancing and eating cake.

Diona jumps when Lynette speaks, and Lynette chuckles fondly. Aslia shifts the way she holds Sayu in her arms, to kiss her wife on the lips.

“I love you, Nettie.”

“I love you too, Little Light.”

[may-fanfic]

A Time For Love

summary: your bucky’s daughter who’s in the closet and dating wanda. turns out,  bucky has a secret of his own. 

word count: 1,426

warnings: none but feel free to correct me if i’m wrong 

a/n: this was such a cute request, i hope i did it justice. hope you enjoy, anon 💕

masterlist

((feel free to send in any request you may have))

-------

as you got older, the topic of your sexuality seemed to become your main focus. you were often confused about your feelings toward both genders and you never knew where you stood with it all so when you and wanda began hanging out, you never gave much thought about the innocent friendship. it wasn't until wanda kissed you one night did you realize that you indeed liked her.

you knew that as the time went on and the more your relationship with wanda blossomed into something more serious, you knew you'd have to tell your dad. you had always been the best of friends with him and it felt eerie keeping such a secret from him. wanda often encouraged you yet not rushing you out of the closet.  you couldn't help the fear that weighed you down, what if he'd look at you completely different?

wanda's hands softly traced the outline of your back causing goosebumps to appear on your skin. you laid there awfully still, questions and concerns racking your brain. "your thoughts are so loud, dear." she uttered out as she pressed a gentle kiss to your shoulder blade.

you sighed softly, turning in the girl's grasp to look at her. her gaze was delicate as she looked at you. a gentle smile tugged at the corners of her plump lips when you reached up and caressed her smooth skin. "don't worry so much." she whispered, leaning into your palm lightly.

"my dad's old fashion," you stated, talking about it out loud made your stomach feel as if it was in knots. she let out a sigh, shaking her head lightly. 

" we're not doing anything wrong." she reminded. leaning down, she brushed a kiss to your hairline causing your eyes to flutter closed for a moment.

"I'll always be here, y/n. even if it goes bad, I'll be right there for you." you cared for wanda and you knew, there wasn't a chance that you'd keep her hidden away forever. you wanted to enjoy your relationship without all the added stress but for now, you weren't ready and that was okay was with wanda, she just enjoyed being with you.

-------

when wanda first uttered out that she loved you, you realized that enough was enough. you wanted nothing more than to enjoy your relationship without the added stress of your father finding out. you knew he loved you and there was nothing he wouldn't do for you. if this confession changed his views on you, it was just something he'd have to get over.  you were done being afraid, your entire life your sexuality felt like a burden in your life, and now it was something that you welcomed with open arms.

it was quiet at the dinner table, you had been trying to work up the courage of finally uttering out those words to your dad. it wasn't as simple as you convinced yourself because now that he was sat in front of you, shoving food into his mouth, you choked on all your words.

"Why aren't you eating?" your dad pointed at your plate with raised eyebrows, wiping at his mouth with a napkin. wanda perked up beside you, her gentle hand traveling under the table and finding its place on your thigh. "um-" you began, looking down at the untouched plate. your thoughts taunted at you causing you to gulp lightly.

"y/n?" he questioned, leaning into the table to get a look at your face. "what? you don't like the food?" he joked lightheartedly to ease the tension in the room but when that failed his smile drop, noticing the way wanda had been gazing at you. "doll, what is it?" his voice softened, his eyes full of concern. his heart dropped slightly at the thought that something might be wrong with you, something he couldn't fix.

bucky had always done everything in this power to protect you and now as he looked at you in distress, he couldn't help but feel like he failed as a father because you couldn't even look him in his eyes and talk to him. and then he feared that you had found out about him and steve, glancing at wanda, he suddenly remembered that she could read minds. maybe she had listened in one day and found out everything that he kept hidden so privately.

if you had somehow found out about him and steve and you didn't approve, bucky wasn't sure what he would do because your happiness was always his main priority. he loved steve but if it was to cost him his relationship with you, he knew it would never be worth it.

you suddenly looked up at him, taking a deep breath causing his eyebrows to knit together. "we need to talk." you suddenly mumbled, and with that, he let out his own shaky breath, not thinking much before he spoke.

"is this about steve and I, doll?" he noticed the way you and wanda both looked at each other, confusion written over your expressions. "what?" you uttered out, your words laced with curiosity.

"what?" he suddenly stumbled, looking between you and the witch. it seemed to be a staring contest for a couple of moments until bucky let his guard down, looking over at you gently. "okay, so it wasn't." you shook your head, your eyes widen but you couldn't help the teasing smile that began to form. your dad and his best bud? you couldn't even imagine it but then you realized that wanda was your best bud too and now it suddenly wasn't so hard to believe anymore.

"no, but let's talk about that." you encouraged causing a warm blush to appear on his cheeks as he stared down at your plate just like you had done moments ago. you glanced over at wanda, feeling yourself grow at ease with that fact that she was just there.

"Okay..." he breathed out, looking at you, a gentle smile tugging at his lips as he thought fondly of steve. he wished he was there to help him break down the foundation of their relationship. "we've been dating for about 2 years, honey." the confession made him feel so much lighter than before and he couldn't help but feel relieved.

"Wow," you whispered, the room itself felt so much relaxed. "I had no idea," you whispered but then wanda made a gentle sound as if she had known all along. she thought it was pretty obvious from the way they looked at each other when they were supposed to be working, she just had no evidence for her theories so she never brought it up.

"I mean..." she trailed off lightly causing a soft chuckle to erupt past bucky's lips as he shook the head at the girl. the three of you shared a lighthearted laugh but once it died down, he seemed to remember. you let your shoulder drop when he questioned you about the original nature of your talk. you didn't feel as nervous anymore as his eyes held a soft reassuring gaze.

"wanda and I are dating." you now uttered it out so casually, you could hardly believe how easy it was for you to say it. bucky's grin grew, his eyes trailing past the two teenagers who were sat in front of him. if he was honest, this was the first time his gaydar failed him and he couldn't be more disappointed. bucky had always liked wanda from the moment she teamed up with steve to help him so if anything, this turned out to be more of a blessing in his eyes.

"you and wanda?" he chuckled, waving his finger between the both of you, you nodded lightly, snapping your gaze over to the girl who had already been looking at you, you found her hand from under the table, intertwining your fingers with her own.

"you better take care of my little girl, Maximoff." he tried his hardest to appear intimidating but the smile gave away his act. "of course." her Russian accent had been thicker than ever as she nodded over to the man. "if you do anything to hurt her, the Avengers will kick your-"

"dad!" your eyes widened and he laughed lightly, putting his hands up in surrender. he knew wanda was a good kid and there was nothing he'd have to worry about but it was his job as a father to protect you and he'd do just that until the day he dies.

[svnthxsense]

— husband!jaehyun / businessman!jaehyun x reader | ‘tis the season | 1.9k words | angst, fluff

Marriage isn’t easy. Everyone is aware of this fact. There are times when you feel so much love for your spouse that it hurts. There are also times when you question the health of your relationship. Right now is one of those times.

You try your hardest to be understanding of Jaehyun’s hectic schedule. After all, being a global business administrator in itself calls for a jam-packed itinerary. There were multiple date nights that had to be rescheduled, multiple events that the two of you couldn’t attend. All of that came with him, and you were okay with that for the most part. However, what you weren’t okay with was his company scheduling him for days worth of meetings during Christmas.

“I’m sorry, baby. You know how they are, they don’t have mercy for the holidays,” He attempts to joke lightheartedly, but you continue to stare blankly at the floor. A twinge of irritation courses through your veins, believing his comment was insinuating that you should roll over and accept this. While the logically thinking part of your brain knows he’d never say that, the other part wonders if you’ve been too understanding.

“Did you even try to change their minds?” You ask quietly, toying with the furry blanket on your lap. Christmas Eve was always split between your family and his- his in the afternoon and yours in the evening. Christmas Day was always just the two of you at home, watching Christmas movies and drinking hot cocoa.

“Well, no... Not exactly. I’m not really sure?” His eyebrows furrow as he looks at you, confused as to what you want to hear from him. Honestly, you’re not quite sure what you want to hear either. All you know is that you’re willing to compromise with a lot of his schedule changes, but Christmas isn’t something you want to have to settle on. It’s supposed to be a time for not only you two  but time with your families as well.

“Forget it then.”

“Babe, I’m really sorry. I’m not sure what you want me to do, though. This is my job,” He reminds you with a slightly warning tone. Both of you are becoming more frustrated with each other, but you’re not sure how to communicate that you’re tired of settling on everything. It comes to a point where you feel like he expects you to compromise every time- and that’s what angers you.

Jaehyun, on the other hand, simply wishes for you to stop being angry with him. The stress of the upcoming year and meetings with the board of directors is enough to have him on edge the majority of his day, but at home, he’s usually rid of that negative mindset. You always picked him back up, so it’s a foreign feeling when you become angry with him. Especially about work.

“Yeah, it’s whatever. Have a good day at work,” You quip, pressing an empty kiss to his cheek and trudging back to your shared bedroom in silence. Jaehyun’s gaze lingers on your figure walking away from him, his heart practically in his stomach while his entire body heats in frustration. With a huffed-out breath, he stands to adjust his tie and smooth over his suit before picking up his briefcase and slamming the apartment door shut.

‘Tense’ couldn’t even begin to describe your current situation with Jaehyun. It’s been a repeating cycle all week, cold conversation and short-lived affection. Sure, it made your heart hurt when you’d roll over in bed to see Jaehyun, back towards you in his walk-in closet tugging his tie off and carding one hand through his hair. You can see in the way his shoulders tense with every movement- he was tired. Then he’d crawl into bed, leaving a lingering hand over yours before turning his back to you.

It’s the day of Christmas Eve, and you’re anticipating the worried questions from your in-laws. Jaehyun, up to this point, has never missed a Christmas Eve lunch at the Jung residence and you had never attended the lunch without him by your side. His parents live on the other side of the city, so while you’re driving through town you decide to leave your gift at Jaehyun’s desk. Despite how tense things may be, you miss him more than you ever have.

You’re certain that he’s on his usual lunch break down in the building’s cafeteria when you sneak into the elevator and ascend to the designated floor for administrators. His secretary greets you warmly, happily opening his office door for you. His office is quite spacious but it lacks the pleasant workplace vibe that you believe everyone should have. The room has a minimal black and white color scheme, his clear glass desk sitting in the middle of the room with the nameplate that reads Jung Jaehyun - Global Business Administrator.

Your fingers run over the engraved lettering fondly, knowing just how hard he worked to become what he is now. So much diligent work went into obtaining his degree, and he was set on this particular company from the moment he met Taeyong, his coworker who spoke so highly of the company. Jaehyun is good at what he does- it’s how he moved up in rank so quickly. Promotion after promotion, he always strived to outdo himself and others.

The grandfather clock that sits in one corner of the room reveals that his lunch break is ending soon, so you place the blue velvet box down in the middle of his desk. Tucking the card neatly under one corner of the box, you give his desk one more look to make sure you hadn’t moved anything out of place. Adjacent to his computer is a framed photo of you two. He’s always favored your engagement photoshoot over your wedding, and you can see why. Both of you look so damn happy, it’s almost as if the emotion radiates from the picture itself.

In the photo, he has his arms wrapped around you, his head placed delicately on your shoulder as he looks over at you to the best of his ability. You stare into the camera, a wide smile on full display with your hands over Jaehyun’s. An enchanting six-carat engagement ring sits on your ring finger proudly and you grin at the memory. Though you keep that one hidden in your closet in favor of your wedding band, you miss the feeling of pure elation knowing that you were going to marry the love of your life.

The joyous feelings still resonate with you when you exit his office, shutting the door quietly and making your way back to your car. Nostalgia fills the air as you click your seatbelt in, revving the engine alive and pulling out of the parking lot. A few years ago, you two were the overjoyed couple in that picture. All you want is for that to come back.

Jaehyun plods into his office, his shoulders feeling much too heavy. Then his eyes meet a navy blue box in the center of his desk. Subconsciously, his eyes crinkle with a smile when he reads the label on the card- ‘My Love.’ Settling into his office chair, he inches closer to his desk and takes the box and card into his hands. His heart swells a bit before even opening it, not expecting a gift from you especially with how things have been.

Tears well in his eyes when he opens the box, seeing the same watch his dad had given him when he graduated high school. He had lost it on a business trip, the jam-packed traveling schedule making him all too forgetful. He recalls being heartbroken over losing it, one of the few sentimental pieces he holds close to his heart.

When he opens the note, the tears fall freely from his eyes. He attempts to wipe them with the backside of his hand, but they continue to fall after numerous attempts. As he reads through your letter, crying and smiling all at once, he wants nothing more than to come home to you and kiss you like it’s your first time. He desperately wants to relive all of the cherished memories he has with you- one of them being your Christmas traditions.

And so he does.

“Y/N! Where’s my son-in-law?” Your mom asks brightly, and you can immediately tell she’s had enough wine for the night. She doesn’t relent, though, plopping down in her seat at the dinner table and looking at you expectingly.

“He sends his apologies, they had a lot of last-minute meetings at work.” You try your hardest to mask any sadness and you assume it worked because no one asks questions. Dinner is similar to your lunch with his family, you take a backseat in the conversation and getting lost in your own thoughts as you chew on your food mindlessly. The buzz of your phone snaps you out of your daze, seeing a notification from Jaehyun pop up on the screen.

[6:46pm] Jaehyun: I’m outside. Let’s talk?

Your brows furrow at the random text message, wondering how he managed to finish with work. Nonetheless, the excitement that bubbles in your stomach at the thought of him being here is enough motivation for you to lazily throw on your coat and mumble that you need some fresh air. Your family doesn’t question you as you brace yourself for the bitter cold. The wind has picked up since you first came, the cool night breeze having moved in as the sun has long descended from your sight.

Jaehyun stands next to his beloved Mercedes Benz, one of the first big purchases he made after joining the company. The ball of his nose is flushed pink, his hands tucked securely into his coat pockets. He breathes a sigh of relief when he sees you, his hands falling from his pockets as he rushes over to your standing figure.

“What are you doing here-” The rest of your question is muffled by his lips, a silent plea for your touch that you refuse to deny. It feels like forever since you’ve last kissed Jaehyun like this, especially in light of the week’s events. The kiss is slow-paced, every ounce of passion he has is in this one kiss. You can tell by the way his hands firmly hold your face and how his eyes are shut, unmoving. There’s not a hint of impatience as both of you melt into each other.

“I love you. So, so much.” He only breaks away so he can mumble these words to you, his glossy eyes boring into yours. He’s still holding your face as if he’s worried you’ll pull away from his grasp. “I left work as soon as I read your card. I’m sorry for this whole stupid argument.”

He repeats ‘I’m sorry,’ as he kisses all over your face, starting from your lips and working his way around. You groan in annoyance, attempting to push him away only for him to force himself closer. By now, the two of you are smiling like fools despite the brutally chilly weather.

“Thank you for the watch, by the way. I may have cried at my desk,” Jaehyun admits shyly, his dimples becoming more prominent the wider his grin gets. You smile back, gently moving his fringe away from his eyes.

“You’re welcome, my love.”

“Okay, let’s get inside before your mom drinks any more wine.”

[cinnamonbunsenburner]

A Witchy Situation *Oikawa Tooru x Witch! Reader University AU*

You were panicking. The cauldron you had ordered online was not going to make it for the full moon tomorrow night. Frustrated, you tossed your phone to the bed and threw yourself to the ground dramatically, throwing a tantrum like a kid.

‘It’s the moon’s fault, gods damn it! All this energy is making me fucking crazy and now this shitty cauldron wouldn’t make it for my ritual to rid myself off the bad energies this past month!!’, you vented in your mind. 

You continued to weakly pound your fists on your bedroom floor when you suddenly heard the soft pitter patter of the rain. 

“RAIN. WHERE ARE MY JARS?!”, you exclaimed out loud. You were internally thankful that your boyfriend wasn’t home because you cannot for the life of you stutter out a believable explanation on why you were gonna place several mason jars and bowls on your patio. It was enough that you convinced Oikawa that rain water was ‘healthier’ for your indoor plants *it wasn’t* rather than tap water.

You gathered some of your jars, which were empty because you recently performed a protection ritual in your shared apartment, and placed them  carefully on the floor of your patio to catch some rain water that you were going to charge under the full moon tomorrow night. 

As you went back inside, you decided to light some incense to smoke cleanse the apartment and your used tools. You spread them out on the living room floor, carefully putting some crystals to cleanse in a bowl that’s full of salt and the non-soluble ones in a bowl full of the last of your rain water. 

‘It feels to stuffy in here ugh,’ you thought, grimacing as it might influence your behaviour even more. Looking at the clock, you still had about two hours before your boyfriend comes home from practice. You opened the windows and began lighting your incense with the intent of cleansing all the negative energy that roamed around. You started with your used tools and moved to the rest of the apartment. As you went into the kitchen you couldn’t help but stare at the several jars of herbs and spices decorated .. everywhere. 

When you were beginning your craft *which was also the time when you and your boyfriend moved in together*, you suddenly felt the need to stack up on some herbs with different magickal properties despite not doing spells yet. Then came the hoarding of jars, crystals, incense, and of course, candles. But it was mainly herbs that you kept on buying. It wasn’t until Oikawa pointed out that you were wasting money when you could plant your own. And that was the birth of your obsession with plants. 

Two years later, your mini herb garden influenced your hot as fuck boyfriend to also grow his flower and vine garden as well. It was the happiest day of your life when Oikawa brought home three different kinds of flowers and a vine of some sort, saying that you two are going to breath the freshest air with the amount of plants that you have. And you couldn't wish for something more amazing than that.

‘We’re plant parents y/n! Oh! We should name all of them.’

‘They already have names Tooru-’

‘Nonsense! Those are LABELS, y/n-chan. Our plants need more respect and freedom of expression!’

You eventually gave in and now all of the pots of all the plants have names. Yes, your idiotically endearing boyfriend memorised their names like the back of his hand. 

You smiled fondly and shook your head. Sometimes you don’t know if Tooru’s secretly a green witch or something with the way he cares for each of the plants. But nevertheless, you loved it. You loved him.

‘Damn it, I’m simping so hard again. That's his job, not mine! Ugh I love my idiot so much’, you face palmed your most probably red face. 

You finished cleansing the entire apartment and put out the incense, heading towards the bathroom for a shower. 

---

You were just finishing up with your night skin care routine *charged with a beauty sigil and positive intent, obviously* when you heard your front door open. 

“Behold, your prince has come bearing food!”, Oikawa’s voice echoed loudly. It was a saturday so it was Tooru’s turn to buy dinner. It was something you guys talked about. 

You two would always take turns in either buying or making dinner. Even if there was a misunderstanding between the two of you, that ‘treaty’ as Oikawa had put it, would always be followed. One time, there was a particularly large fight between the both of you *you can’t remember anything from it anymore but you two had definitely learned from it * that provoked the both of you to raise your voices at one another. 

You both soon realise your toxic attitude in avoiding problems and bottling it up, letting it burst at the second it was too much to set aside. From then on, no matter how small the issue is in your personal lives, you talk it out while eating dinner. Sure, it might cause a slight disagreement but you two actually preferred it that way rather than letting it boil further into a huge melting pot that may risk a permanent tear in your relationship *yes, you two had opened up about this. And yes, Oikawa is indeed an ugly crier. But hey, at least your problems are solved sooner than later.*

You froze as you remembered that you had accidentally left your witchy stuff out in the open. You weren't particularly closeted but you weren't ready to tell your boyfriend. You were sure though that he already had a hunch once you hoarded some stuff that you normally didn’t pay attention to. And with his knowledge of extraterrestrials and the unknown, it’s going to shock you if he still doesn't suspect you of being a witch.

You quickly put down your brush and rushed to meet your now suspiciously quiet boyfriend. You found him crouched on the floor poking at the crystals in your salt bowl while holding your wand in the other hand. 

“Tooru! You’re home! ahahaha, that’s nothing to be,” you closed off your book of witchcraft that was bearing a chapter introduction to blood magick. “thought about too much,” you said nervously, tucking your arms behind you as you stared off to the side. He looked up at you while his eyebrows were furrowed in confusion.

“..One of your crystals are kinda goopy and kinda melting there in the water y/n-chan,” Oikawa pointed at your bowl full of rain water. 

“Eh?”, you stared back at him.

It was an awkward silence after a few moments, neither knew how to react. He blinked at you.

And you blinked back at him.

...

“...crap, my Selenite.”

“Uh.. yeah. It’s kinda dissolving so I think you should take it out”

You snapped out of it and quickly sat beside him to attempt to salvage your water soluble crystal. The said crystal doesn’t even NEED to be cleansed. It was partially dissolved and your eye twitched, thinking that this was such a rookie mistake and you were a stupid witch and now your boyfriend probably thinks that you’re crazy and-

“I have food. Wanna talk about it?”, Oikawa smiled softly, letting go of your wand and began arranging the food on the table.  

You looked at him, surprised that he was taking these things lightheartedly. The man even had a smile on his pretty face and was humming some kind of happy song. 

The two of you fell in a semi-comfortable silence as both of you ate.

Oikawa looked at you with an unreadable expression. It made a literal waterfall of sweat drop down behind your back despite the cool temperature. He put down his chopsticks and laced his hands on the table. The opening of his mouth to speak seemed like it was on slow motion and you were preparing yourself for the worst.

‘Oh gods, here it comes’, you thought, panicking more and more.

.

.

.

.

.

“Sooo... can you curse someone for me?”

“Eh?”

“I have this weird classmate who just kept on clicking his pen repeatedly during exams and it’s SO FRUSTRATING. Like-”

“Now wait a damn minute pretty boy,” your eyes twitched at his literal dismissal of the not-so-normal things that he just saw. “Y-you’re not gonna break up with me? Or like say that I should be burned while tied to a post??” At this point you probably blinked your eyes out at his unexpected reaction.

“Why would I do that? You’re still my girlfriend, right?” he tilted his head to the side before his eyes widened and he gasped loudly. “UNLESS YOU’RE NOT?!!! BAD DEMON. GET OUT OF MY BEAUTIFUL GIRL’S HOT BODY. I’LL GET THE SALT, I SWEAR!” Oikawa exclaimed while reaching towards the salt shaker on the end of the table *it wasn’t salt lol*.

“WHAT- NO YOU IDIOT! IT’S ME-”

“THAT’S WHAT DEMONS SAY AAAHH. Y/N-CHAN THERE’S A SHAPE SHIFTER DOWN HERE TRYING TO KILL ME. IT WANTS TO DONATE MY ORGANS FOR POWER.” 

“DEMONS DON’T EVEN DO THAT. TOORU THAT’S NOT EVEN THE SALT, THAT’S SUGAR-”

Let’s just say it took a while to convince your overdramatic boyfriend that it was you. 

[jjonyangdan]

[ oneus / kim youngjo (ravn) ] ; fluff | 1.2k words

↪ a date with youngjo and fireworks.

Once in every quarter or so, they’d be a seasonal festival down at the park near your home. There would be various stalls comprising a variety of snacks and beverages to satiate famished individuals, stands for trying your luck at prizes, several amusement attractions such as a small ferris wheel and a merry-go-round, and vibrant fireworks to conclude the memorable night—usually most aspects of a typical festival.

Oneus, the group your boyfriend Youngjo is in, have completed their promotions for their latest comeback and were awarded a short respite for their hard work. When Youngjo told you of this news, you immediately posed the preposition for them to visit the festival that would run throughout the day and late into the night. And of course, they all were boisterously set on the suggestion. So, several days later, you find yourself at the local festival with your beau and his friends.

Everyone mostly split off into different sections; Keonhee, Leedo and Xion eager to indulge in the festival’s refreshments while Hwanwoong and Seoho were more keen to explore the place itself first before embarking on some of the thrill rides it offered. It left you remaining with Youngjo, which you definitely didn’t mind. Perhaps they all did it intentionally so you both could spend quality, cozy time together. You assume this because they surely weren’t discreet about leaving you two alone; voices different in pitch and the not so subtle shared glances, smiles and jabs.

“What do you want to do first?” your boyfriend asks from beside you, dark brown eyes surveying the area and the people strewn around before resting back on you. The afternoon sun showers his features in warmth, making his cheeks gracefully glow where he slightly squints under the orbs scrutiny. “Are you hungry?”

You shake your head in response. “I’ve eaten breakfast this morning.” Your head tilts in contemplation before you lightly crane your neck to look up to him. “We could just explore first and see what we like before deciding. Unless you’re hungry?”

“I’ll be full watching you enjoy yourself,” he returns, a smile following and playfulness in his eyes.

Breathing a laugh in incredulity, you fight back the urge to lightheartedly roll your eyes at his antics. “Okay then, flirt. Let’s not waste any more time, yeah? I think I saw something you’d like over there...”

He answers by interlacing your fingers together, eyes fondly peering into yours before meandering further into the festival with you close to his side and ensuring his hold doesn't loosen on you for he doesn’t wish to let you slip out of his sight. “Then lead the way.”

The day soon dwindles into dusk and then completely into night. The amount of visitors the festival contained has increased, cheerful banter and exuberant children scampering around. The midnight sea flowing above is ornamented by loud, coruscant lights effused by the event’s attractions instead of the sight of the natural specks of argent. 

Gravel crunches underneath the soles of your shoe, trailing after the movement of your feet as you tread with purpose. One of your hands are still weaved with Youngjo’s, while your other arm is enveloping a Mickey Mouse plush he tenaciously tussled for and was ultimately honoured with for his perseverance which he then didn’t hesitate to give you with a triumphant beam.

Yes, you’re immensely grateful, but there’s a wave of trivial hesitation within your chest. You both know he’s not entirely adept at these kinds of activities (well, that’s what he believes anyway). Nonetheless, he’s worked so hard to attain it, countless dollars out of his own pocket, only to present the prize to you without a reward for his own hard efforts. He simply stated seeing your joyful smile was enough of a payment, knowing just how much you adore the very character. 

You did endeavour to win a prize for him but with even more horrendous skills over his own, it was all fruitless in the end and you settled on buying snacks and drinks after numerous coaxing from your boyfriend. And still not satisfied, you’ve settled on purchasing animal ear headbands for you both, matching Mickey and Minnie mouse ones, snapping many photos together.  

You’re both currently stationed in a line, queing up for the ferris wheel. There’s going to be a fireworks show in a couple of minutes and you’ve both decided beforehand to try and view them on the mini ride to have a chance to view most of the colourful explosions. Youngjo has his arms encasing you from behind and has you drawn against his chest, sharing warmth as the winds have shifted to a more colder tone, and his chin is snuggly sitting atop your head.

“I hope we get a good view of the fireworks at the top!” you say with a hopeful glimmer in your (e/c) orbs as you gaze up at the brightly lit attraction.

He hums in agreement, a soft smile dashed across his face as he gently rocks side-to-side with you. “It’ll be really romantic.”

Giggling, you tilt your head back enough to look into his eyes and straighten your pose so you can land a fluttery peck against his lips. There’s a loving look adorning his features, heart palpitating against your back, and he’s tightening his hold on you with immeasurable affection. Soon the line moves and it’s your turn and you’re settled in one of the pastel capsules, the attendant ensuring the door is securely fastened in place before the circuit begins.

There’s a bang followed by cries and cheers of fascination and awe. With a look through the bars of the passenger car, you notice that there are vibrant spheres shooting high in the sky before bursting into dazzling ribbons; the sight reflected in your eyes and your gasp of amazement following. It’s always a superb spectacle to witness, no matter the amount of times the beholder has watched such displays. There’s something warm and uplifting about listening to the crackle of fireworks bursting and admiring how the sparks trail off in different directions, a toasty and homely feel to it like when you’re with the ones dear to your heart.

“It’s so pretty…”

Youngjo hums, quietly admiring the display himself. “But do you know what else is just as pretty?”

“What, are you going to say yourself or something?” You snicker, knowing how he’d commonly use the adjective to describe himself.

“Well, yes, I am pretty. Thank you,” he agrees without a pang of shame, a chuckle following your small giggles. “But I was thinking about someone else.” His hand squeezes yours as he leans closer toward you, closing the small gap that separated you both on the seat.

“Oh yeah?” You smile at him, having an inkling of what his next words could be.

“You.”

Heart pounding in your ears, you instinctively flutter your eyes shut as he fills the emptiness with his presence and his soft lips smoothly press themselves on your own. He has an arm slung around your shoulders, propping you against him, the curve of his mouth never lifting away from yours. 

High up on the ferris wheel with radiant fireworks as the backdrop framing your figures tenderly in love and being able to experience it all with Youngjo by your side—there could be no other better moment to finish the night off.

[strangestdrabbles]

How About It Baby?

A/N: ben hanscom deserves more love so writing this was wonderful,, soft ben is my favourite and this fluff was so heartwarming :o) 

Pairing: Ben Hanscom x Fem!Reader

It was a rare day that allowed Ben to dedicate a full day to the woman he loved, soft skin kissed by morning rays and a white duvet bunched up around lethargic bodies to signify enjoyed sleep. Y/N blinked awake slowly as the warmth surrounding her seduced her with another hour of rest but instead she leaned over and pressed a handful of kisses to the skin of Ben’s shoulder, giggling softly at the groan coming from her lovers lips before snuggling closer to him and sighing lovingly as he pulled her closer. 

“Good morning my love.” Ben spoke in a raspy voice that sent pleasant shivers up Y/N’s spine. 

“Morning darling.” 

It took a long moment for Y/N to find the motivation to leave the plush double bed as Ben’s arms were providing a homely comfort, yet the smell of caffeine from the cafes from floors below was the motivating factor for her to finally leave the room. The kitchen was spacious and modern yet still had a warmth and openness that made it a pleasure to occupy, Y/N’s fingers quick to occupy the coffee machine while her mind wandered so she didn’t hear Ben entering the room until his arms surrounded her; a hearty laugh escaping his lips as he pulled her close. 

“I didn’t mean to scare you.” 

Y/N turned in his arms and trailed her fingers up his sternum before resting her hand softly on his cheek, admiring the man that she fell completely in love with while a fondly content feeling settled in her chest along with a pretty smile on her lips; the coffee machine beeping periodically in the background. 

“So what do you want to do on our day off? I saw a new exhibit at the art museum that I would love to see and maybe we could go to that new restaurant downtown that you told me you wanted to try.” Y/N spoke while preparing their coffee, turning to look at her love every once in a while before handing him his beverage in his favourite Snoopy mug, biting her lip at the adorable way he held the mug in both hands. 

“Actually I wanted to talk to you about something.” Ben spoke after taking a hearty sip of his coffee, swinging his feet back and forth shallowly. 

Y/N sipped her coffee while leaning against the counter and watching Ben over the brim of her mug, nodding quickly three times before setting her drink down. 

“Of course love. What’s on your mind?” 

It seemed as if the air suddenly became a cooler as a nervous shiver staggered the length of his spine, placing his mug down before his fingers intertwined with each other in a way to ground himself while gathering the courage to formulate the words circling in his mind. 

“Ben? Are you okay darling?” 

His voice seemed to escape him as he attempted to vocalise to the love of his life how much he wanted to start a family with her, the constant thought causing a pleasant buzz to settle under his skin along with a pretty pink settling on the high points of his cheeks. He cleared his throat once and then again before looking at Y/N and taking in how ethereal she looked haloed in the light filtering through the kitchen. 

“I really want to start a family.” 

Y/N had her mug halfway to her mouth when what Ben had said finally registered, causing her eyes to widen and her heart to pick up at what Ben had revealed as it was what she truly wanted; a smile just a little too big for her face kissing her lips. 

“Do you really mean it? You really want to?” Y/N said, not being able to hold in her elation.

The sun’s warmth filled the kitchen completely as Ben moved from sitting on the kitchen counter to standing close to Y/N, allowing her to cuddle close to him with her head resting on his chest to listen to his heartbeat. 

“To have a family with you would be a dream come true.” Ben spoke softly while he wrapped his arms around Y/N, pressing loving kisses to the crown of her head while feeling his heart soaring in a way that was near indescribable; Y/N wrapping her arms around him tightly and basking in being held by her love. 

“You have a way with words Ben Hanscom.” Y/N mumbled softly while nuzzling into his chest, sighing softly when he began to play with her hair. 

Ben smiled softly before leaving another sweet kiss to the crown of Y/N’s head and leaning away to look down and see that her cheeks were a soft pink, not being able to differentiate as to if it was because of his confession or the warmth of the kitchen. 

“You’re blushing.” 

Y/N pushed against Ben’s chest before giggling lightheartedly which hung over the couple before being swept off by the light summer breeze. 

“I’m just so happy that you that you want to start a family.” Y/N’s voice was choked as tears gathered in her waterline, a lump in her throat causing her to have difficulty swallowing. 

Ben laughed good naturedly before picking Y/N up so she could wrap her legs around his waist before walking back into their bedroom, laying her down and getting in behind her and pulling her close so he could press soft kisses on the length of her shoulders to her neck and then over and over on her cheeks; not being able to suppress the smile that overcame him when Y/N laughed. 

“How could I not want to start a family with you? You’re the love of my life and I am ready to spend the rest of my life being a family man with you.” 

The duvet felt like a cloud under her back while Ben’s legs intertwined with hers felt like a homely weight as they cuddled, her heart skipping a beat at his words while her bottom lip was momentarily held between her teeth; the sky outside an opalescent shade of blue as Y/N let her eyes shift out of focus for a minute. 

“I love you Ben.” 

Ben smiled while feeling a flush settle on his bare chest. 

“I love you too darling, so much more than I could ever articulate.”

[dat-town]

What kisses dream of

Characters: radio host!Jae & You

Setting: friends to lovers au

Genre: fluff

Summary: in which Jae passive agressively dedicates songs to you on the radio without you knowing they are meant for you so you get jealous

Words: 1.8k

Being Park Jaehyung's best friend is an adventure. Last-minute weekend trips, impromptu singing sessions on the streets, spicy ramen eating contests, texting silly memes and awful lot of emojis 24/7, sneaking back to your dorm room at three in the morning, laughing at the smallest things, a hand around your shoulder whenever you feel down, Saturday movie nights with sweet popcorn and you getting pissed when he talks English you don't understand.

It's always fun and you are content, you swear you are even if those nasty butterflies in your stomach tell otherwise. But your heart can’t help but skip a beat whenever he smiles at you fondly, grabs your hand or just simply hugs you as a greeting. You tell yourself you shouldn't get greedy and want more than what you have. Or more than what you can have. Because of course, Jae likes somebody who isn't you: Somebody who is funny, kind and smart, a girl that makes him dedicate cheesy songs to her.

Jae has been working as a late night host at a local radio station ever since he quitted university because it wasn't for him. You have never missed his show since then and he likes to tease you about it or even embarrass you sometimes on air like telling his listeners about that annoying friend of his who still owns him a pack of chicken. But no matter how smug he acts, you can tell he appreciates your loyalty. However, truth to be told, you don't do it solely because you are best friends but because you are addicted to his show. You love his jokes, his music taste and that three hours every weekday when you can do anything while listening to his voice. You only dread those last moments recently, those last tracks because now Jae often dedicates a heart fluttering love song to some girl his listeners like to ask him about.

"She's the most amazing person I have ever met," he once said and it pained you more than it should have.

You couldn't say anything but it hurt you both as his best friend and as the girl who has been in love with him probably ever since he sat down to built sand castles with you when you were five. Though, you only realized it last Christmas when he gently kissed you under a mistletoe due to your friends' endless nagging.

"Are we ok?" he asked then, looking at you so closely, only a few breaths away, you couldn’t think properly. And what could you have said anyway? You were still dazed only because of this quick, chaste kiss that shouldn’t mean anything more than an innocent peck between friends, so you played it safe:

"Yeah, of course."

You haven't talked about it ever since, most likely because it really didn’t mean anything to him. But you were becoming more and more aware of your infatuation over him. It’s not just a crush on your part but as his best friend you can only support him if he likes that girl so much, even if he isn't willing to tell you more about her.

"Huh and you call yourself my best friend?" he laughed at you one time you asked about this mystery girl. Jae teased you for a week straight after the incident that you shouldn't be jealous yet you couldn't help it: you were. You are. Because where is this dream girl Jae dedicates all the sickeningly sweet confession songs and how can she not notice how great he is?

You don't even know why you keep making yourself suffer but you sure as hell can't say no to Jae. Not when he whines that he missed dinner and asks you to bring him something to eat at the radio station. That’s how you end up in the studio building with hands full of exotic spiced chicken wings he likes so much. He is almost done when you arrive so you wave to him through the glass window and his face brightens as he sees you... or at least, his dinner. He mouths you ‘five minutes’ note with a short nod, putting down the take-out and entangling your earphones to listen to the end of his show. You catch the last accords of an Ed Sheeran song and then Jae's melodious voice fills your ears.

"Hey late night listeners, this was Perfect and as I see online a lot of you have been wondering about this girl I like. Is your life so boring that you care so much about mine?"

You swear his laugh is even prettier when he mentions that girl which makes you gulp bitterly. Still, you can't take your eyes off of him, not when he smiles so bright, eyes disappearing into crescents behind his glasses, ruffling his blonde hair and looking happier than ever.

"Okay, if you are so curious, I tell you that I know for sure that she's listening to my show right now. So yes, dear listeners, one of you is the girl who stole my heart," he says and your breath hitches.

The show is online but how can he tell? He didn't track the girl's IP address, right? That would be a bit creepy. When Jae glances at you, he laughs at you scandalized expression a lot amused.

"I'm sure you are all wondering how it all happened. Well, I have known her so long I'm pretty sure I have always loved her one way or another. But I only realized that it's a different kind of love when she had her first boyfriend and I had to fake a smile."

Your mind is running miles in a second searching for somebody in Jae's big group of friends who can be the one. Jae's not helping since he's quite protective of every single girl friend of his because he likes to act like the funny big brother everybody would like to have. Except you.

"She doesn't know that I'm a bit of a romantic and she probably thinks it's lame of me to confess with songs but come on, songs can tell it better than me,” you best friend keeps making you suffer without knowing because it’s almost unbearable to hear him talk more about this lucky girl. It feels like a stab in the heart and you are close to having enough of all this when he continues with his confession: “All of these songs remind me of her and if she doesn't put it together today I'm gonna give up because the song I'm playing tonight is significant in our ‘relationship’ dare I say. At least for me. So hey, love, if you don't feel the same way it's okay but this is how I feel. Here comes When you love someone by Day6, our beloved local band, here you go. This has been Jae. Thank you for staying with me tonight. Good night, sweet dreams and don't forget to subscribe."

As Jae pushes some buttons on the control panel, music flows and he puts down his headphone making his way towards the room in which you stand paralyzed listening to the song that was playing when you two kissed that night almost a year ago. What the hell?

"You are an idiot!" you punch him on the chest as soon as he steps out of the soundproof booth. You emotions are all over the place varying from delighted, relieved to a bit mad.

"Say something I don't know," the boy giggles putting his manly hands over your fists to keep them there close to his heart and then there’s a pause while he expectantly waits for you to say something. It’s rare to see him so hesitant and uncertain because most of the times he seems very sure of himself. But you have never had heart to make him wait for too long so you gather all your courage and tell him how you feel:

"I kind of love you too," you finally say out loud, softly, cheeks rosy and voice shyly quiet.

"Thank God, it would have been super awkward if you didn't," Jae scratches the back of his neck letting out a bit forced rippling laughter.

"You could have said something, I can't believe I was jealous of myself!" You huff but you almost regret it because Jae has the nerve to keep smirking.

"That was pretty fun to watch," he remarks lightheartedly and you roll your eyes. Of course, it must had been amusing for him.

You clear your throat nervously before asking the big question: "Sooo what changes?"

"Hm... except for being girlfriend and boyfriend instead of best friends, it can be pretty much the same, I guess. My mom says we already act like a couple," Jae shrugs with a fond smiles until something crucius doesn’t cross his mind and when he looks down on you, he seems so serious you don’t know what to make out of it. "Oh but the kissing! Let’s not forget that part! We have to kiss now."

The desperation in his voice makes you giggle and in an instant your feel your previous stiffness dissolving into thin hair. It’s just Jae after all, your best friend whom you trust with all your heart…

"Who said I want to?" you raise an eyebrow in challenge that makes him pout sadly.

"Fine then just let me hold your hand."

You touch your chin with a finger acting like you’re thinking hard. "I'll think about it."

However, Jae knows you and your acting skills too well because he doesn’t seem bothered at all as he turns his back on you like he didn’t care. "Sure."

"Okay, wait, I made up my mind," you stop him quickly before he could get farther away and grabbing his hand you stand in front of him. His brown eyes are glimmering stars of the universe as he curiously gazes at you. "I want you to hold my hand and kiss me."

You surprise yourself being so blunt and a blush is already adorning your features as you duck your head down. But Jae doesn’t let you hide for long as he sneaks his long fingers around your neck, under your jaw and leans down until his lips are ghosting over yours.

"With pleasure," he whispered raspily in a way that makes your knees weak but you kiss him back with equal force. He tastes like the coffee he drinks and something sweet, addicting, you lose yourself to the feeling but just because you know Jae will always be there to catch you when you fall.

So if being Park Jaehyung's best friend was already an adventure, being his girlfriend is the whole damn feast but you don’t regret a thing. Never with him.

[taikoturtle]

Ch. 3 - Trimberly fic, “Been There, Done that”

Read it on Ao3

Read Ch. 1

Read Ch. 2

Springing up out of her covers, Kimberly rolls over to Trini and starts gently shaking her shoulders.

“Trini, Trini wake up!”

“Mmnnggnhnng.”

“Trini, I swear if you don’t wake up this instant I’m going to slap you.”

Trini grumbles and pokes her head out sluggishly. “Kim, I love you and everything, but please leave me alone.”

“No, Trini get up. This is important.”

“So is sleep.”

“Trini, if you don’t wake up, someone’s going to die.”

Now that catches her attention.

“What’s wrong? Are we under attack?” Trini leans up from her sleeping bag with added urgency, halfway prepared to leap into a battle ready stance.

“No, nothing like that.” Kimberly shakes her head before scooting closer, dropping her voice into a low, serious tone. “I know this sounds crazy, but I’ve gone through this day twice before and I can prove it to you.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Look,” Kimberly points at the entrance to their tent. “Any second now, Zack is going to come wake us up and shortly after that, Jason burns the potatoes he’s trying to cook.”

Trini snorts with disbelief. “How do you burn potatoes?”

Her question goes unanswered as the distinct sound of crunching leaves and twigs snapping underfoot gets louder and louder until Zack’s head pokes through the tent’s flap.

“Rise and shine everyone; rise and shine!”

They stare at him blankly before he realizes that they’re not actually asleep.

“Oh, you’re already up.” He smiles broadly. “Makes my job easier. C’mon, breakfast is almost ready.”

“Wait, Zack!” Kimberly calls out. “Don’t you uh, want to know what we did last night?”

She has to stall long enough for Jason to burn the potatoes to prove her point to Trini. If they go outside too early, they may interrupt him and she’ll never believe her.

Zack claps his hands excitedly and eyes them both. ��Oh ho, what’s this? You girls did stuff last night? Did you do stuff… together? Because then Jason owes me-”

“No, Zack,” Trini growls dangerously, “We did not do anything like that. We just went stargazing and saw a shooting star, nothing more.”

“Oh. My bad.”

His reply is oddly muted and Kimberly doesn’t know why Trini seemed slightly offended by the implication that they did stuff last night, nor does she know why the sharp pang in her heart stings as much as it does.

“Jason, I think the potatoes are burning.”

Right on time.

Zack motions to the campfire and grins. “Looks like that’s my cue. Captain Hopeless needs me.”

He disappears back to join the boys and Trini gawks at Kimberly. “You were right. He burned the potatoes.”

“What’d I tell ya?”

They get dressed in a hurry as Kimberly explains the situation to Trini. She recounts the first day and how everything went wrong, starting with Zack slashing his leg from falling off that tree to the attack and to his… death. Then on to the next day where she saves Zack but at the cost of Billy’s life.

“No matter what I did, someone still died at the lake,” Kimberly groans in frustration.

“So you think the day is repeating itself until you get it right and nobody dies?”

“Well, yeah. I mean, what other reason could it be?”

“Okay, fair enough. Why are you telling me this now?” Trini asks as they exit the tent.

“I need your help keeping everyone safe,” Kimberly admits with anguish underlying her words like a tethered ghost. “…I can’t do it alone.”

The pair walk in silence up to the campfire and watch as Zack and Jason squabble over the potatoes while Billy carefully scrapes off the extra burnt parts, blissfully unaware of the fates that befell them in another time.

“I’m sorry,” Trini whispers quietly while observing the boys, “that you had to go through that.”

Shaking her head, Kimberly shrugs it off. “It’s fine.”

“Is it really?”

Zack’s body flashes in her mind.

Billy’s body flashes in her mind.

Blood running everywhere like a free flowing stream, how unnaturally pale they looked and how eerily still death really is. Each experience like a vivid nightmare and likely something Kimberly will never forget.

Trini’s always more attentive than she lets on though. Some find her enigmatic disposition intimidating, but Kimberly knows it’s her way of slipping into the background to silently observe. Despite only having been clued in on the past events just now, she notices the cumulative toll it’s taken on Kimberly and she sees the lasting emotional scars that the pain leaves behind.

She recognizes it’s a pain that none of them will truly understand.

“…One day it will be,” Kimberly responds shakily after nearly being consumed by her own treacherous thoughts. “As long as we get it right this time.”

Trini gazes up at her, unwavering. “I’m with you.”

The sincerity of her words hits Kimberly like a tidal wave, washing over every fibre of her being and filling her with a comforting, uplifting warmth. Her support has been what’s missing in all the past repeats, and it’s exactly what she needs because as much as she prides herself on being a strong individual, carrying such an arduous burden is no easy task. With Trini at her side, the day seems far less daunting and maybe - just maybe - this time, Kimberly can get it right.

Zack hands out the tin trays with the cooked sausages and charred potatoes to each of the squad members and they proceed to chow down hungrily. Kimberly pushes the uneaten food around on her plate absentmindedly, her eyes instead flickering from one person to the next. She wonders what’s going on in their mind and whether those thoughts change with each repeat. Probably not, judging by how Jason always burns the potatoes and Billy’s dialogue remains the same, but those small trivial musings help deflect against the relentless visions of their gruesome deaths.

After they finish up their meal and tidy up the campsite, they load up their bags in preparation for the nature walk and Kimberly can’t help but groan loudly because god, how many more times is she going to have to walk this beaten path? Kimberly isn’t exactly keen on exercise, and while a mile is no big deal, several miles repeated back to back to back is enough to drive her a little insane.

The boys are a little farther up ahead, chatting indistinctly about the latest videogames and strategies leaving Kimberly to safely discuss her plan of attack with Trini.

“They have razor sharp talons and are larger than Zack, but are pretty quick despite their size. There’s feathers all over their body and I’m pretty sure they had some kind of hardened chest plate, like armor or something.” Kimberly describes them as best she can from memory, but judging by the incredulous look Trini’s throwing her way, her efforts are weak at best.

“So these massive, super fast, Bird baddies came–”

“Can you not call them ‘bird baddies’?” Kimberly protests lightheartedly. “That sounds so lame.”

“Well we’ve got to call them something, and I like the alliteration of bird baddies over bird enemies, which, by the way, sounds ten times lamer.”

Kimberly takes a sip of her water and shrugs. “I didn’t exactly have time to come up with a cool name for them, okay? I was kind of preoccupied fighting for my life.”

“Fine, I guess you’re off the hook,” Trini jokes as she hops over a mossy tree trunk. “Anyways, as I was saying before I was so rudely interrupted by a certain someone, the bird baddies just came out of nowhere?”

Kimberly stows her water bottle away and nods affirmatively. “Each time I was attacked on land first, so I’m guessing they must have circled from the surrounding forest. This time though, I was thinking I should search the perimeter first and have you keep an eye on Billy, that way the bird baddies won’t get the drop on us.”

Trini’s mouth tugs up into a smirk.

Kimberly purses her lips. “What’s so funny?”

“You called them bird baddies.”

Rolling her eyes, Kimberly stifles a grin of her own and gently shoves Trini’s shoulder. “Whatever. Just follow my plan and we’ll be golden.”

Trini salutes dramatically with a sparkle in her eyes. “Aye aye, captain.”

No matter what timeline Kimberly’s in or how many days she’s repeated, or who knows what’s up or down at this point, it’s an indisputable fact that Trini will always be charming and infinitely endearing. It’s like a constant law of the universe, with every successive scenario merely serving to reinforce said law, and without fail, Kimberly’s heart melts just a little bit more.

“Hey Jason, how far away is it?”

Billy’s question triggers Kimberly into action and she’s forced to shove her feelings to the wayside once more to address the situation at hand.

Between the combined efforts of her and Trini, they’re able to successfully talk Zack down from leaping up onto the precarious tree branch by instead daring him to give Trini a piggyback ride, effectively challenging his strength and endurance. It’s a deceptively simple tactic that works perfectly because Zack never turns down a challenge.

Kimberly watches fondly as he weaves and zig zags around the forest with Trini on his back and for a brief moment, she worries that maybe this could result in another moment of injury for either one of them, but as the forest thins out and the lake comes into view, those silly fears dissipate.

“Wow,” Billy exhales as he shields his eyes against the bright reflections to take in the entire scene.

“Wow is right.” Trini echoes his sentiments as she hops off of Zack’s back to drop her bag onto the ground.

“Last one there is a rotten egg!” Zack wastes no time in swiftly stripping his shirt off before chucking it to their pile of belongings and dashes towards the water at full speed with Jason trailing shortly behind him. Billy carefully unties his shoes and folds his clothes up into a tidy pile before venturing out towards the shallows.

Kimberly pulls her top up to reveal her own fuschia bikini top and for a second it gets caught on her hair; of course, leave it to her short hair to still somehow get tangled in fabric. It’s a wonder how her haircut continues to cause problems despite it being more easily manageable, yet here she is caught in her own damn shirt like a buffoon. The air is crisp and cool against her exposed skin and goosebumps riddle her arms, but after a few more seconds of struggling, she manages to shimmy it up and over.

Tossing her top aside, Kimberly starts, “Hey Trini, I think–”

She stops mid-sentence.

Trini’s eyes are wider than usual, her lips parted slightly, chest rising and falling at a shallow, rapid pace. She looks like she’s seen a ghost except her skin isn’t pale - in fact, it’s quite the opposite. There’s a deep rosy tint overtaking her cheeks and her gaze seems hyperfocused on Kimberly, but not Kimberly’s words.

She’s gawking.

Maybe it’s from the extra workouts at the gym that Kimberly forces upon herself outside of the demanding Power Ranger training sessions, but she knows her body is toned and relatively fit. The power coins already granted them heightened strength, but she figures it can’t hurt to at least try and maintain it through natural means. It’s just… with Trini staring so intently, Kimberly can’t help but feel a little self-conscious.

“T-Trini, hey uh. Earth to Trini.” Kimberly’s heart is racing and she wonders if Trini feels it too. “You there?”

Trini blinks a couple more times, as if still mesmerized, spellbound by powerful, invisible forces beyond her control, but then she suddenly shakes her head and her focus snaps back to Kimberly’s anxious face. “Yeah, no I’m fine. What?”

“The plan, Trini.”

“What plan?”

“Go keep an eye on Billy while I search around,” Kimberly slowly reminds her as she gestures towards him.

“Yeah, yeah, got it,” Trini mumbles her words hastily before undressing to reveal her swimsuit as well. “I’ll just be uh, going now.”

She scampers off like a frightened rabbit and makes a beeline to join Billy who’s already standing peacefully at the water’s edge. Kimberly suppresses a laugh because in their entire time together, that has to have been the first time she’s ever caught Trini just… staring like that. She looked so flustered - so absolutely bewildered - that in a way, Kimberly can’t help it when her confidence swells. Though she tries her best to hide it, keep it low key, Trini is positively stunning, so eliciting such a visceral reaction from her feels like an impressive god-like feat.

Retreating back to the trees, Kimberly skirts around the border where the clearing meets the forest. Every crunching twig and rustling bush grabs her attention. Her pulse spikes and her breathing draws quicker and quicker. She doesn’t even know which direction the birds might come from.

Hell, for all she knows, they swooped down from the sky.

“No,” she mutters to herself as she presses on past a few scraggly trees, “if they came from the sky then we would’ve spotted them.”

Kimberly leans against a tree and watches Trini chat with Billy in the shallow water. Their backs are to her, but judging by their posture Trini has probably figured out why Billy doesn’t go deeper into the lake. Jason and Zack are farther out in the distance floating on their backs, bobbing up and down in the water like buoys, relaxing without a care in the world.

And then it hits her. Literally.

Anyone in the water would be too preoccupied to notice, and every time Billy’s back was to the trees so of course he only had his peripherals to rely on. That being said, they couldn’t have come from the left or right; they came from directly behind where they dropped all of their belongings in a pile.

Kind of exactly where Kimberly’s standing now.

She hears the branches snap as she’s turning around. The moment she pulls a fast 180, the first bird is already tackling her to the ground, screeching bloody murder into her ears like a deafening siren.

“Kim!”

She hears Trini shout her name, but panic floods Kimberly’s body and she immediately roars back, “Stay with Billy!”

The bird has her pinned to the ground as it swipes at her face, thick black feathers engulfing her vision with obsidian chaos. Kimberly throws her arms up just in time to block the first flurry of slashes, but she’s punished with deep gashes ripping open along the length of her forearms. Pain explodes all over her body like a wildfire, searing her skin and eating her alive. She screams out in agony as blood gushes from the wounds, but adrenaline surges in her system and she manages to buck the bird off in a sudden jerking motion.

Turning the tides in an instant, Kimberly gets the upper hand by twisting around and swinging a solid punch directly at the enemy’s armorless, exposed throat. Airy, hoarse noises croak from the bird’s crushed windpipe like a broken instrument and Kimberly knows its days are numbered.

One down.

Warm liquid streams down her arms but she refuses to look at it because the moment she acknowledges just how bad it really is, there won’t be enough adrenaline in the world that can mask the true, uninhibited pain.

Jason and Zack are just barely out of the water and run headlong to face off against two more birds. Her eyes flick to the side and she spots Billy and Trini tag teaming a single bird. Billy isn’t the strongest at hand-to-hand combat, but Trini is, so they balance each other out perfectly. The bird is agile with lightning-quick reflexes but two against one is still better odds. Kimberly nearly heads towards Jason and Zack to help them out, but movement catches in the corner of her eye and her heart sinks.

Another bird emerges from the woods, headed straight for Trini.

“No…!”

Her feet dig deep as she kicks off the ground, dashing at full speed, frantic and fearful.

She has to make it. Not making it is simply not an option. Billy’s eyes widen as the second bird rears into view just beyond his field of vision, but he’s ducking and dodging the immediate threat right in front of him. Trini must’ve noticed the subtle shift in his expression–she pivots in place and prepares to brace herself for a sudden onslaught.

But the onslaught never comes.

Kimberly barrels in at full speed and hurls herself forward to intercept the charging bird. She manages to get a grip on one of its winged arms as she tackles it down and attempts to pull it to the ground with her, but the bird’s other free arm wildly swings down in an arcing motion. A sharp, stinging sensation shoots through her hand as the two hit the floor in a scrawling heap. Kimberly raises her arm, winding up for a devastating punch, but when she tries to clench her hand into a fist, she’s paralyzed with crippling pain. Hazarding a glance, she quickly sees why.

Oh.

Instead of a fist prepared to strike, she sees a hand.

A debilitated, injured hand covered in glistening crimson blood that’s missing its pinky and ring finger along with half of the middle finger.

No, there’s no way that’s her hand.

Except she wiggles her fingers, well, tries to wiggle her fingers, and sure enough the hand attempts to respond, but there’s just nothing to wiggle. Sheer horror floods throughout her body as it dawns on her that they were slashed clean off - that she’s fucking missing fingers now - and how she has this luckless bird to thank.

With all her might, she clenches her other hand and slams it into the enemy’s face. A sickening crunch crackles through the air as her fist fractures the bird’s beak on impact, its face smashing inward and compressing into a flattened, fleshy mess. Tiny tremors wrack its feathered body, twitching and spasming away the last signs of life, and with two enemies now dead, the others release an ear-piercing screech before taking to the sky.

Kimberly holds her hands out, palms facing up at her, and she stares unblinking and shocked at how they look distinctly different.

I don’t have a pinky anymore, she thinks, or a ring finger.

The adrenaline starts to fade, replaced with white hot pain rapidly blossoming all over her body and she remembers that oh yeah, I’m probably bleeding out too, judging from the long jagged gashes spanning the length of her forearms. The mounting pain becomes exponentially unbearable and the last thing Kimberly remembers is seeing Trini’s face before fading to black.

She wonders if this is what death is like.

Cold, dark, lonely, isolated.

She hates it, she despises the feeling, but she’s already resigned to the fact that there’s nothing left for her, that life is done and over. In the end, she fulfilled her ranger duty and kept everyone safe and that’s all that really matters.

Except death never takes her.

Kimberly’s eyelids are heavy and clumsy as she slowly blinks awake. The blankets are thick and weighty against her chest. There’s tubes and monitors and the faint beeping of her heart and everything’s twenty times louder than it should be thanks to the massive headache throbbing against her temples, but hey, she’s not dead so that’s definitely something.

Her eyes scan the room and she realizes she’s in the infirmary at the Command Center. Thankfully none of the other beds are occupied, so either nobody was hurt, or someone was hurt so bad that no amount of medicine could save them. She sincerely hopes it’s the case of the former, but she can’t know for sure.

The last thing she remembers is seeing Trini’s distressed face before everything went dark. She thought it would be the last thing she’d ever see, which honestly wouldn’t have been such a bad thing at all, but in the quiet, dimly-lit room Kimberly finally notices the tiny figure slumped over on the side of her bed near her waist.

“Trini?” Kimberly croaks out, her voice raspy and guttural. She tries to reach out, but agony shoots through her body like lightning and she hisses in pain.

It’s enough though. Her gasp rouses Trini from her slumped position and recognition lights up her face like christmas and she chokes out in happiness. Lurching forward, Trini throws her arms around Kimberly and hugs her tight.

Kimberly’s body ignites like needles jabbing in all directions, but Trini is hugging her and that’s more than enough reason to help her endure the pain.

“What happened?”

Trini doesn’t move at first, still hugging her tighter than she’s ever hugged her before. Her limbs are shaking and her breathing comes in erratic tiny sniffles. “I th-thought I was going to lose you.”

“Is everyone okay?” Kimberly asks. She has to know that her efforts were worth it.

“Yeah,” Trini replies as she pulls back to breathe. “Nobody died.”

“How long was I out for?”

“Just a couple hours,” Trini says. “We brought you to the Command Center as soon as we could.”

Kimberly’s eyes follow down the length of her arms, passing over the thick sterile dressings until they rest at her heavily bandaged hand. It’s her dominant hand unfortunately, so she’ll have some new things to get used to, but it was worth it. It was a fair trade in her book.

The mattress dips down, pulling her away from her thoughts and Trini maneuvers her way under the blankets to join Kimberly in her bed. It’s a tight, snug fit for the two of them, but they make it work. Trini wraps her arm loosely around Kimberly’s stomach, making sure to not place too much weight on her arms and after the other girl doesn’t complain or protest the movement, she relaxes into her side, her head resting gently on Kimberly’s shoulder.

“You did it,” Trini whispers. “You saved everyone.”

Kimberly hums in agreement. It was sloppy that’s for sure, but Trini’s right–she did save everyone. It came at a cost, but it was a price she’d gladly pay a thousand times over. No more deaths, no more stress, no more what ifs. She finally achieved what she set out to do.

“I couldn’t have done it without you,” Kimberly says appreciatively. “Really, thank you.”

Trini shifts in place and turns just enough to face Kimberly. Her eyes are red and puffy and shimmering like a glistening lake, but they’re deep and intricately profound, hiding layers of pent up emotions and unspoken sentiments. But right now there’s a storm raging within her eyes as she studies Kimberly up close, words dancing at the tip of her tongue.

“I… Kimberly… I uh…” Trini’s biting her lip, as if she has more to say. A part of Kimberly feels like she knows what comes next, anticipating the following admission, or even an action that she thinks she’s finally ready for, but Trini’s brow upturns anxiously and fear surfaces to the forefront. “Jason said we’ll go back to camp tomorrow morning after you’re rested.”

The words spill out of Trini’s mouth and before Kimberly can even react, Trini swiftly breaks eye contact and instead nestles into her side. Kimberly can’t tell if it’s disappointment or fatigue, or some stupid mixture in between, but her body grows heavy and consciousness becomes a chore so she stops fighting the inevitable.

“Goodnight Trini.”

//

It was a great night.

It was a fantastic night.

Exhaustion makes sleep seem ten times better. When Kimberly wakes, she feels amazingly well-rested.

In fact, maybe a little… too well-rested.

No.

No.

No.

She’s in a pink tent. She’s in her sleeping bag. She clenches her hands and they feel perfectly fine. She hears the twigs snapping underfoot and she wants nothing more than to scream at the top of her lungs because what the fuck.

“Rise and shine everyone; rise and shine!”

[existentialismee]

leafslash​:

His features soften. Kimihiro… had spent most of the day prior preparing all of this, if for no other reason than perhaps it would make the day a little more special, something he could look back on another time as a fondly woven memory. All this, just for him. The thought might make his chest swell so full it’d burst. And somehow, Kimihiro remains as humble as he’s ever been — only glad that to see the surprise was well-received, that Ashton is happy. As if the gesture was merely the least he could do, and not the lasting impact it’s made on Ashton’s heart. He dearly squeezes the hand in his own, while the shopkeeper sweeps his thumb past where they link.

“ It’s perfect. Of course I do, ”  is what’s finally forged into words. He’s elated, of course he loves it. It means everything and more, for the experience couldn’t be newer to him.  “ To be honest, I’m blown away. I’ve never been surprised quite like this. ” Kimihiro takes the opportunity to pull himself closer, pressing a soft kiss to the upturned corner of his mouth; the color in his face flourishes, and again he laughs, bright as a bell. “ You did, you made it more than wonderful. ”  A touch finds him by the curve of his jaw. The emeralds of his eyes twinkle and his smile broadens, dimpling the cheek underneath his palm as the other’s mismatched gaze flits over him, both in careful acts of reverence. It lasts but only a moment, though he savors it as long as it’s there.  “ I promise. ” And then Kimihiro pulls back, ushering him further into the kitchen by the hand that still holds him. There’s a celebration to be had, lest they not forget. “ Oh, well… ”   In a slight fluster, he quickly weighs the options presented to him; he falters for only half a second before quietly he arrives at his decision, just as they round the table.  “ Actually… I’d like for Sakura and Leon to join us, but first I think I ought to see the gift while it’s still just us. How’s that sound? ”

He could have stayed in this moment for the rest of the evening, really; just reveling in Ashton’s happiness, in the joy that seemed to capture his very being. Nothing could make Watanuki happier than knowing that Ashton was enjoying himself because of something he had done; that this gesture had meant so much to him.. more than Watanuki had really expected it to, at first.

But they were similar, in a lot of ways; more than what was just presented on the surface. Both he and Ashton had experienced so much loneliness in their lives, and though perhaps it was nowhere near as bad as it used to be.. Watanuki knew how those feelings could last throughout your life. Even in the most wonderful moments, they had the power to pull you out of it; to make you remember how sad you used to be, when there was no one there to pull you out of your darkness.

Ashton had never experienced something like this before, because he had no one to experience it with. But Watanuki was here now, and no matter what the future had laid out for him.. he knew he would remain at Ashton’s side. Nothing would ever be able to pull him away.

“Next year, then.. I suppose I’ll have to come up with something even better,” he spoke lightheartedly, although there was meaning behind the statement; reassurance that Watanuki would be there, that he wanted to be. He held onto Ashton’s hand a little tighter. “If I can be the reason for your smile, I’ll do whatever it takes to keep it there.”

Ah. Maybe he was getting a little ahead of himself.. he didn’t want to fluster Ashton too much now, did he? Well, maybe he did, but he had to remember to go easy on him today..

“That’s more than alright with me,” hearing Ashton’s decision on what to do next, Watanuki felt his excitement bubble in his chest again; leading the two of them to sit down at the kitchen table. His present was already there, just waiting to be opened; and inside was something he had been working on for the last few months. It was scarf he had knitted himself, designed with a more thicker cable pattern; using an emerald green colour of wool that instantly reminded Watanuki of Ashton’s eyes. He picked up the package first, carefully handing it to Ashton.

“Since your birthday is in the fall.. I thought you could use this. Though I know your cloak keeps your warm, I wanted you have something from me that would do the same.” his voice softened, gaze falling momentarily. “.. I would do more if I was able to. There’s only so much I can do in terms of gift-giving, because of my ability to grant wishes, but.. I hope you like it, regardless.”