#makes me happy that you deem me safe enough to follow :]

[crplpunkklavier]

putting "i do not make the teenagers who follow me on social media feel the need to be mean to me" on my resume

[marvelfilth]

Off the deep end (18+)

Part 2 Part 3 Part 4

Pairing: ghostface!Sam Carpenter x f!reader

Warnings: canon typical violence, dubcon (just to be safe), knife play, spanking, fingering, choking, degradation, mention of blood, alcohol and weed

Summary: "You're going to spread your legs for me. If you're wet, I'll do whatever I want to you. If you're not, I'll leave."

Masterlist

The floor almost vibrates with how loud the bass is, making your ears ring as you frown in search of Tara. She disappeared some time ago to look for another drink, claiming she was good enough to go on her own. You can already feel the ass whopping you're about to be put through for losing sight of her.

You bump into another drunk frat boy when you finally see her, immediately fastening your pace when you notice some asshole wrapped around her.

You already regret the amount of tequila you've drank throughout the night.

In reality, recent news of Ghostface attacks should've kept you locked at home, preferably with sharp objects by your side, but Tara practically begged you to join her at the party, claiming she needed someone to keep her company since she didn't want to third wheel Mindy and Anika, and follow Chad around while he's trying to find Ethan a girlfriend, so you quickly agreed, feeling the need to let loose after months spent panicking about the killings.

The killings that somehow always revolved around Blackmore ever since they transferred there.

You tried not to think too much into that, but soon enough Mindy deemed you trustworthy and gave you a quick, but intense dive into their story. You understood it all a bit better after that.

And installed a security system.

So yeah, you needed that drink, a couple of them, actually.

"Hey." You get her attention and pull at her hand, but she resists. "It's time to go." You say, watching the way she's blinking slowly, heavily leaning on the arm of the asshole.

"I'm fine. You can go, don't wait for me." She giggles and tugs him up the stairs.

You stop for a second to take a deep breath before following them. Her palm is sweaty in your hand when you tug her back, catching her as stumbles down the stairs.

"Y/n, what the fuck?" She groans, trying to pry away.

"Yeah, what the fuck?" The asshole pushes you against the wall, leering over you before he's sent flying down with a precise punch to his jaw.

"Sam, are you insane?" Tara shouts over the loud music and marches away with a huff when her sister sends her a seething look. You make a move to follow her, but sag back against the wall when you see Chad hot on her heels.

Your attention is pulled to the older woman when you feel gentle fingers cup your jaw. "Are you okay?" Sam asks, her eyes flickering all over your face. Your chest tightens and you fight the urge to lean into her soft palm and press kisses all over her fingertips.

You sigh, nodding. "You got here just in time."

There's a groan coming from the floor and Sam snaps her eyes back to the man, her expression darkening as she makes a move to him.

You get in her way, catching hold of her wrists before she could move any further. "Let's just go, okay? He's not worth it."

Her jaw clenches and you can clearly see the debate that's happening in her head.

"He was going to hurt Tara. He hurt you." She snarls, her eyes trained on the whimpering man.

"And you stopped him. Let's go check on Tara, okay?"

She relents, begrudgingly, and dutifully follows you outside.

The fight between the sisters is anything, but pretty.

You really don't want to stay to see the rest of it, so you wave Mindy over and tell her your uber is waiting around the corner. She looks skeptical for a second, but then there's mentions of therapy and her attention is pulled back to the fight as she mutters something about calling her when you get home safe.

You nod and quickly disappear around the corner, happy to delay the inevitable confrontation. Sam might've been worried at the party, but it doesn't mean she won't chew you out as soon as she's done with Tara. You just hope she won't be as angry tomorrow.

Luckily you live not far away, so you're not even worried, whistling some tune as you make your way home, your eyes dropping slightly from alcohol and exhaustion. Sober you would've thought it to be way too fucking dark and creepy to be walking alone down the alley to your apartment complex, but you're tipsy on tequila and tequila always makes you a little too reckless, so you throw caution to the wind and continue your way.

And then you see something out of the corner of your eye and freeze, when you realize that a man just turned to follow you down the alley. Your heart drops to your stomach when you see him pull out something shiny from his pocket.

You start moving faster, almost jogging the rest of the way and turn around before rounding the corner.

The man is gone.

You make it up the stairs in record time considering your wobbly knees, and sag against the door once you're finally safely inside.

It's nearing midnight, you note, sending Mindy a quick text before making your way to the bathroom. You are tired, but not tired enough to wake up feeling gross after a night out, so you take your time under the hot stream, washing away the smell of alcohol and weed.

And then you hear something fall in the kitchen.

You frown and step out of the shower, drying yourself in the process. You open the door and peek outside, barely breathing to make sure you don't miss anything strange.

When nothing happens again you sigh, wrapping the towel around your still wet body and go to the kitchen to investigate. If your pan fell from its hook again you'll have to ask Chad to come over and fix it for you.

You freeze when you see it swinging from side to side on the hook, clutching at your towel as you turn around to grab your phone, only to run into a solid, cloaked form.

"Hello, Y/n."

You barely register the distorted voice before you're being yanked by your hair and pushed against the counter, a knife flashing in your line of vision.

"Your parents didn't tell you not to walk alone at night? Especially when there's a serial killer on the loose." They continue, pressing the edge of the knife to your neck.

You look up at the Ghostface mask. Dread fills your chest and you shake in their hold, eyes filling with tears while you think of a possible escape, but your body goes numb and your mouth won't open, so you just stand there, gaping at the imposing figure.

"Pathetic little thing." They growl, before placing the knife against your chest and slicing your towel away.

You blink when it falls at your feet, and the sight suddenly spurs you into action.

You grab the pan from behind you and swing it hard against the intruder, but they easily avoid it, catching your arm in an ironclad grip and turning you around to press you against the cold countertop. You hiss through gritted teeth and throw your heel as hard as you can against their kneecap, sending them tumbling to the floor in a heap of black fabric.

You don't get a chance to run too far when they catch your ankle, making you fall face first on the floor. You're turned on your back before weight settles on your hips.

"Maybe not so pathetic," the voice sounds almost pleased before they pin your hands above your head.

You're suddenly all too aware of your state of undress when you feel their eyes on you. You try to squirm, but they don't budge, the Ghostface mask tilting as they look you up and down.

You grow embarrassingly red in the chest, trying to think of something, anything to distract the murderer from you, but you're not sure there's anything good enough to get their eyes off you at the moment.

"Who's blood is that?" You blurt, eyeing the knife on the floor.

They tilt their head to the other side. "Not yours."

You suck in a sharp breath, wincing at your stupidity.

"Okay…" you whimper, closing your eyes, "are you going to kill me?"

They pick up the knife and raise it over your chest before lowering to trail the blade over the skin of your breasts.

Your breath hitches in your throat.

"I would've killed you by now if I wanted to," they say and release your wrists to take hold of your neck, not squeezing, just resting fingers on the tender skin of your neck.

The gesture sends shivers down your spine.

"Aren't you pretty like this?" The knife point barely grazes your nipple and you bite your lip, stifling a whimper. You push against their shoulders, digging your nails into the robe as you try to keep them away, squirming in their hold.

"Let me go, please." Your whispers turn desperate when their fingers squeeze around your throat, making it hard to breathe. "Please, I'll do anything."

"Anything?"

You nod feverishly, not trusting your voice.

They pull away, the weight on your hips completely disappears when they shift to sit to your side, trailing the blade down to your belly button.

"Then we'll play a little game." They chuckle and you open your eyes, waiting for them to continue. "You're going to spread your legs for me. If you're wet, I'll do whatever I want to you. If you're not, I'll leave."

You stop breathing altogether, suddenly hyper aware of the wetness pooling between your thighs. You shift unconsciously, edging away from the Ghostface in hopes of escaping before they inevitably notice your arousal. You're shaking, your sole focus on the person that made you tremble with a few simple touches.

You don't know what you feel more, repulsion or arousal, but then their fingers wrap around your jaw and you know you don't have time to debate your feelings.

You have to do something, and you have to do it fast.

"Don't even think about it," they growl, getting dangerously close to your face.

In a flash, they have you on their lap, legs spread on either side of their hips as they push you down hard against their thigh. You moan loudly, rocking your hips against their dark pants, leaving a trail of wetness.

"Fuck," you whimper, clawing at their shoulders, "please…"

They slap your thigh, stopping your movements with a heavy grip of your hip bone. "Please what? Please stop?"

Your head falls in the crook of their neck as you whine, desperately trying to move.

Fuck this. You'll think about the consequences tomorrow.

"Don't stop." You breath against the mask, tugging their gloved hand up to your neck.

Their fingers wrap around the back of your neck and then you're pushed down on your stomach, your legs bent at the knees and forced apart before they deliver a hard spank on your ass, making you cry out against the hardwood floor.

"Such a slut."

Another spank.

"Whoring yourself out to a stranger, a murderer."

You try to rub your thighs together, your pussy clenching when they land another slap to your reddening ass, the sound echoing through the room. Suddenly, they pull away and there's shuffling of the fabric before a pair of leather gloves lands in front of your face.

Your hips buckle in anticipation.

"Don't get too excited," they chuckle, before landing a palm against your wet center, making your whole body twitch.

You pant, reveling in the feeling of their soft fingers gently soozing the pain, gliding through your folds to settle against your slit. You hold your breath, waiting for them to finally push inside and fuck your brains out when another loud spank echoes through the room, making your eyes roll to the back of your head.

"You look beautiful like this, fuck," they breath out, spreading your lower lips and teasing your entrance, pulling quiet moans out of you.

Your whole body is on fire and you can feel your arousal leaking down your thigh before it's caught by a hot, wet tongue.

"Mhm," the person, a woman, hums and you realize she just threw away the mask with the voice changer in favor of tasting you.

You don't have a chance to say anything when her tongue slides up your slit, lapping at the wetness and dipping down to tease your throbbing clit with the tip of her tongue. Your knees buckle, your body shaking from pleasure. She tugs your head by your hair, pulling you up against her front when you nearly fall, her fingers gliding down your stomach to disappear inside you in one deep thrust. Your eyes squeeze shut and your head falls back against her shoulder as she sets up a fast rhythm, her other hand reaching across to play with your breasts.

"Faster-" you whine, burrowing your nose in her soft hair, clawing at her forearm.

She pulls her fingers out and lands another slap on your inner thigh in warning, and turns her head to bite down at the juncture of your neck, making sure to leave a mark.

"Open your eyes, baby, look at me," she whispers and you think you recognise the voice, but her fingers on your aching nub feel too heavenly to place it and your eyes are too heavy to listen to the command, so you whine and tug her face back to your neck, moaning when she litters it with wet kisses.

She circles your clit with her thumb so slowly and softly, barely applying pressure before diving back in and curling her fingers inside of you, making you come in two hard thrusts.

×××

"Did you get home safe yesterday?" Mindy asks, nudging you with her knee.

You look up from your book, squinting against the sun, your hand flying up to fiddle with the soft fabric of your turtleneck. "Yeah. I sent you a text, right?"

Mindy groans, falling back on the soft grass and nods, throwing her arm over her eyes. "I called you, though, but you didn't pick up. Got me worried for a second."

You wince, hiding your face behind the book. "Sorry. Fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow."

You don't mention the fact that you don't remember ever going to your bedroom, let alone falling asleep. The last thing you remember from yesterday is Ghostface wrapped around you, taking you apart. You stifle the urge to run your fingers along the fabric that covers your bruised skin. It's really not the time to think about it.

She rolls her eyes before looking over at you. "Lucky you. I really hate you right now."

"What did I do?" You ask, affronted.

She pushes your shoulder, sending you a dirty look. "You should've seen the look on Sam's face when she realized you already left. If she was angry with Tara before, she turned positively livid when she realized you went alone. She wanted to follow you, but Tara intervened, calling her overbearing and overprotective and it got even worse. We had to call an uber because Tara refused to get in Sam's car, and Sam didn't even look at her when she drove off to God knows where."

You put down your book. "She didn't go home?" You asked, tugging at your bottom lip.

"She did, a few hours later and drunk out of her mind," Mindy rolls her eyes, exasperated. "They really should talk one of these days or I'll stab them myself."

You chuckle, but your mind is still stuck on the revealed information. You decide to think about it later when you notice Tara stomping in your direction with Chad by her side. "Hey." She mumbles, still clearly in a bad mood.

You send them a small wave and tune out their conversation, butting in only when necessary and mostly keeping to yourself, trying your hardest to focus on the words in your book and not on the way your whole body aches.

"By the way, I'm kinda grounded so we're hanging at my place tonight." Tara's voice pulls you out of your thoughts and you groan, burrowing your face in the book.

Fucking great. You can already feel the headache coming. Sam is going to have a field day and you won't even be able to retaliate while your body is still hyper sensitive from being fucked out of your mind.

Someone pinches your side. "Don't be too sad, Sam promised booze," Chad says, sending you a wink.

You let out a soft laugh, your head falling on his shoulder in the process. He grins, and wraps his arms around you, pulling you in a bone crushing hug. You sag against his chest, content to bask in the warmth of your friends' company, until you feel someone boring holes into your forehead.

You look up and see Tara's questioning look, her eyes flickering between you and Chad, and you roll your eyes and shake your head at the smaller girl, jokingly pushing him away and standing up to go to your last class of the day.

"You coming?" You ask and she nods, following a step behind you, hesitating to start a conversation.

You sigh. "Tara, you know I have zero interest in Chad."

She runs into you when you suddenly stop, and scrunches up her nose, hiding her eyes behind her hand. "It's not that," she grumbles and snakes her hand around your elbow, tugging you through the crowd. "I wanted to say thank you. You know, for yesterday. I was really stupid."

You look at your friend, your heart squeezing in your chest at the vulnerable look she sends you. "Anytime," you whisper, pressing a kiss to the top of her head, and she finally relaxes.

×××

"My favorite person!" Quinn beams from the couch when you step inside the apartment, holding a bag full of snacks. "Hey there, girlfriend." She presses a kiss to your cheek and takes away the bag, leading you to the kitchen.

Everyone is already here since you were the one to go to the store. Your last class passed without a hitch, and even though Tara kept sending you weird looks every now and then, you figured she was just jealous. That was the main reason why you pushed her in Chad's direction when she tried to join you.

You're more than happy to see them sitting side by side on the small couch, hunched and giggling over something on his phone.

You blush when you notice Sam standing in the corner, leaned over the stove, slowly stirring something in a boiling pot. Even you can admit she looks like shit from the night spent drinking, her hair a disheveled mess and her eyes bloodshot.

"All these snacks and you're still the best one," Quinn smirks, throwing away the paper bag and taking the food to the living room.

You snort and give her the finger.

Sam whirls around with a spatula in her hand and sends a dark glare to the back of Quinn's before looking you up and down with an unreadable expression on her face, taking in your attire, her eyes lingering on your neck.

You stifle the urge to fiddle with your shirt again and curl your hand into fists, nails digging into your palms.

"Y/n." She eventually mumbles in greeting and turns back around to rummage through the fridge.

"Sam." You look around and decide to settle on the counter. "What are you cooking?"

She tenses, the muscles of her shoulders straining under her tank top as she holds her hands in the air, mid way to the fridge. She sends you a look over her shoulder and takes out a bottle of orange juice.

"Pasta. Want some?" She asks like she's just trying to be polite and not actually offering you a meal.

You look down at your feet, your mood dampened by a single sentence. You feel like you deserve the cold shoulder. "I'm good, thanks." You hop off the counter and turn around to leave.

She catches your wrist. "Not so fast."

You try to not pay attention to the way your skin gets hot all over at the simplest touch, fixing your eyes on hers. You think you can drown in their depth.

"I'm sorry about yesterday." You whisper, placing your palm over hers, and gently squeeze her fingers.

Her eyes darken and she looks down at the motion, her lips parting slightly.

You pray she'll let you off easy.

"Y/n, you need to see this." Mindy calls out, gaining your attention.

Sam blinks, her brows furrow. "We'll talk later," she promises and leads you to the living room and tugs you to sit next to her on the soft cushions, her fingers still wrapped around your wrist. You sag against the pillow and focus on the TV.

"Another fatal stabbing happened yesterday just before midnight. A man in his early thirties was stabbed seventeen times…"

"That's your neighborhood, right?" Tara asks, her face a picture of concern. "You always go down this alley."

"Yeah," you gulp, staring at the photo of the man who followed you yesterday.

The grip on your wrist turns almost possessive, and you turn to look at Sam, choking on your breath when you see a dangerous glint in her eyes.

Your chest is starting to feel too heavy, and your breathing becomes labored. Suddenly, you're back at the apartment, with Ghostface pinning your wrists and the blood on the knife now makes perfect sense.

Ghostface wasn't there to hurt you.

She saved you.

___________________________

Do we want a part two?

[reiderwriter]

🍷 Alcohol Free 🍷

Week 1 of my Playlist series! Inspired by Alcohol Free by TWICE.

Summary: You're the designated driver for half of your friends, and Spencer is the designated driver for the other half, so why do you feel so buzzed when you're around him? OR; taking every opportunity when you finally meet Spencer Reid for the first time ♡

Warnings: fluff, mentions of alcohol consumption, but reader and Spencer are both sober. A/N: Welcome to week 1 of the Playlist! I think we started with an absolute banger, and for such a fun, upbeat song with this, I had to make this a fluff (sorry to all my smut and angst enjoyed, please be patient 🫡). I hope you enjoy it! Don't forget to send me more song recs, as I'll be writing one follower chosen song fic per month 🥳

Check out my masterlist here~

“How much have you had to drink exactly, Pen?” You laugh as you watch her wobble back and forth, at her table.

“We started with champagne and wine. And then there was the cocktail round, so, a few margaritas here and there. And a mojito. Maybe a mimosa. I think a guy bought me a pint colada at the bar earlier,” her words were so sharp you almost couldn't believe she'd drank anything at all, but the fact that she said all this while swaying gently from side to side had you giggling at her antics.

“Don't forget the tequila!” Penelope's friend Emily groaned from the other side of the table then were gathered at, face already flat on the surface as if her hangover had already hit.

You'd been friends with Penelope for over a year now, so you were acquainted with all of the girls there, and had agreed to come and meet them on one of their girls nights out. You were never a big drinker though, so you offered to be the designated driver for the half of the gang that were committed to Uber-ing home.

They'd been drinking since the mid afternoon, and by the time you'd gotten off work and cleaned up for the bar, it was obvious that they were going to be a handful.

“Y/N, YOU'RE REALLY PRETTY, YOU KNOW THAT RIGHT?” JJ shouted from her seat beside you.

“Thank you, JJ, you already said that three times tonight. Maybe we should get you some water?”

“And so kind too, my princess in shining armour,” Penelope giggled.

For most people, being the only sober person on a night out was hell, but you found yourself enjoying it more and more as the years went by. Drunk women were so much like kindergarteners when they reaches a certain blood alcohol level, and you loved seeing what your usually serious and cool girlfriends would come up with.

You also wanted to make sure they stayed safe, and with the impressive list of multiple alcohols they'd just ingested, you wondered if you should be carting them off to the emergency room then and there.

“I THINK YOU'D LIKE MY FRIEND SPENCER. HE'S NERDY. YOU'D MAKE CUTE BABIES.” JJ was still shouting all of her words, despite the bar being relatively quiet and you almost did a spit take with your water as she kept on.

“Stop trying to marry Spence off, Jennifer.” Penelope giggled, over pronouncing JJ's name as if it were her first time ever using the word.

You'd heard a lot about this Spencer Reid since you'd become close with the girls at the table, and honestly, you were happy that JJ deemed you good enough for their Spencer.

From the sounds of it, all three of them nagged at him like elder sisters who found him endearingly annoying, and were fiercely protective of him. It made you curious.

“Are you seeing anyone, Y/N?” Emily asked, finally lifting her head up slightly, but in a way that made it look like it weighed 500 lbs more than usual.

“I'm not.”

“Why? You're smoking. Half the men in here have been circling your like sharks for the hour you've been here.” You laughed at that and pushed a bottle of water in Emily's direction again, encouraging her to take small sips of water.

“I'm being serious! I may be drunk beyond belief but this is a sober thought.”

“Emily, I love you, but none of these men are interested in me. I'm practically a spinster. I'm 27, I have no money and no prospects, yada yada, already a burden to my parents.”

“That was something nerdy, I know that was something nerdy, my Spencie Senses are tingling,” she quipped.

And as if right on cue, a quiet voice popped up from behind you and all the hairs on your neck stood on edge as it happened.

“It's a quote from the 2005 Pride and Prejudice movie, so it's not really all that nerdy, Emily.” You turned, slightly startled in your seat as you finally met the elusive Doctor Spencer Reid.

“SPENCE!” JJ cheered, and the other girls similarly whooped at his entrance. They were overjoyed, but you were slightly overwhelmed, because not once in their descriptions of Spencer Reid had they ever told you that he was quite possibly one of the hottest men to ever grace this good Earth.

His hair was slightly curly, a mess of waves flopping into his eyes, but shorter on the sides, highlighting his sculpted jaw. He was tall, on the lean side and craning your neck to look up at him was a happy experience to say the least.

He greeted his friends and looked down to you, and you felt all the blood suddenly rush to your brain when your eyes locked. Dear God.

“Spencer, this is Y/N, my wonderful, gorgeous, single and attractive friend. Say hello, Spencer.”

“Hello,” he gladly followed the instructions Penelope gave him, and you practically giggled at the sound of his voice. Giggled.

“Hello. I'm the wonderful, gorgeous, attractive Y/N,” you waved at him slightly, but your brain wouldn't stop thumping around as you enjoyed the sight of the man.

“Penelope actually told me about you before. You're working at the indie bookstore near Café Density, right? Castle Books? I got a first edition of T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats there a few months ago.”

“You!” You gasped the word, as a garage of words fell from your mouth in a stream. “You bastard, I was saving for months to buy that thing, and three days before my paycheck I turn up and it was gone! Oh my god, how does it smell? Are the pages mustard yellow or still A little white? They never let me touch it because I almost burst into tears every time I got close.”

To your astonishment, he didn't recoil from your spitfire speech, but laughed happily.

“It's great, the illustrations are amazing. I didn't know someone else had their eye on it when I went in, I'm sorry.”

“Don't apologise for finding treasure. You'd be a horrible pirate if you did that.” You brain really wasn't connected with your mouth anymore and you resisted the urge to turn and bolt away from the discussion.

“Thank you? I'm not a pirate, but I think that was a compliment.”

“See, nerds made in heaven, JJ was right.” The panic built up again slightly and you were sure your brain was going to explode with all the heat that was flooding to your face.

“What's JJ right about?” Reid inquired, and you almost grasped your chest to stop your heart from beating out of it when he cocked his head to the side.

You hadn't had a lick of alcohol the entire night, and yet you're entire body was reacting like it was drunk on Spencer Reid.

“Oh just that you and Y/N here would make beautiful-”

“BEAUTIFUL CONVERSATIONS HAPPEN.” You quickly cut Penelope off, sending her a warning look that was less subtle than just straight up telling her to shut her mouth.

“Can we go now?” Emily dropped her head to the table again as she threw out the words, looking suddenly three shades greener than she was a moment before. “I think that last shot was the drink that broke the camel's liver, and I'm the camel.”

You passed her the water again and slowly started to help your friends gently gather their things, noticing that Spencer was doing the same.

No wonder these girls were so protective of him if this is how well he treats them. He was their coworker, but he would have absolutely been confused for a filial son for any of the three women as he helped them each.

“Where do you live, Y/N?” He asked casually as you both helped the women out of the bar and into the fresh air. “My car is a bit small, but we can throw these three in the back together and they'll mostly sleep until they get back to their homes.”

“Oh no, you don't have to do that, I can go by myself-”

“I can't let a drunk woman go home by herself, Penelope would give me hell in the morning.” This earned a few giggles from the women beside you. You thought you heard Emily mumbling “some profiler he is,” under her breath as well.

You hesitated. You should've been explaining that you hadn't had anything to drink yet, that you actually drove here yourself and that your car was likely parked right by his. You should've offered to take at least one woman off his hands for the night to share the burden of making sure your friends didn't die.

But it was true that each of the women was likely to completely pass out when they got into the car, like newborns being rocked to sleep by their mothers. And that left Spencer Reid free for conversation.

“Thank you, that would be really nice, actually,” you smiled and followed the man to his car, lugging your wonderfully buzzed friends behind you.

[lunaetis]

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025 !!

there were so many things that happened this year. so many changes throughout the entire year that were both good and bad. 2024 was honestly quite a rough year for me, physically and mentally. but for everyone who had stuck around with me throughout it all, thank you so much for being a part of my 2024 going onto 2025. i cannot tell you enough how much coming online and to this blog wouldn't be as wonderful an experience without all of you. my friends, my mutuals, and everyone i had met and had the pleasure to talk to and write with, or even those who i never get a chance to interact with yet, i genuinely am grateful for your presence.

whether we have followed each other for years, or have just become mutual recently, bless you for deeming me deserving of a space on your dash by clicking that follow button and thank you so much for making mine an absolutely amazing one. i'm very sorry if i had done something to upset any of you during the past year. i'll do my best to be better. i want to reach out more. i want to talk to more people, interact with more people, write with as many of you as i possibly could. i really appreciate all your patience and understanding despite my sporadic activity.

a special thank you for those who let me bother your muses with the space raccoon, and to those who let me throw yinyue at them despite knowing nothing about wuwa. with rin being the newest addition to my fixation, i do hope i'd get a chance to explore her and more dynamics with our muses in the upcoming year !

with that said, i wish you all a great year ahead ! please stay safe, stay healthy, be happy, and remain the most beautiful and amazing individuals that you all are ! thank you for sticking with this awkward pupper who endlessly yap about her muses and biting. goodbye to 2024 and here's to a better year for all of us in 2025 ! pupper loves you all dearly ! HAPPY NEW YEAR !! 2025 HERE WE COME !!

[gemglyph]

I’ll give you all some advice, but first let’s take a walk together through some of my life.

I have some family that was killed in the Holocaust. I did not learn this until recently, but in retrospect I probably should have known.

What I had learned (when I was “old enough” and it was therefore deemed okay to talk about) was that my ashkenazi family narrowly avoided being slaughtered in the Holocaust by escaping to the US before the US closed its borders to jewish refugees.

I have always known since I was little that some of my family are jews from Sicily. They avoided pogroms (jew hunts) by hiding that they’re jewish. This part of my family immigrated (probably actually fled) to the US prior to WWII (or WWI, my family bickers about this. We don’t have records, I guess).

In both instances, they have to hide who they are to protect themselves.

Life happens, jews persist, I’m born.

Elementary school, I’m told by my family I can’t talk about my home life at school. I’m singled out by my peers and bullied for being different. I move states. Go to an entirely different elementary school. I’m singled out and bullied for being different. Jewish. Kids know this word, I know this word, it’s the 2000s, people use jew as a slur. You know that they mean it that way. Because they say it like it’s wrong.

Middle school, I only fit in with the “weird kids”. I have maybe 5 friends.

One of my friends mom is obsessed with taking me to church if I were to attend a sleepover. When I stop spending time over there because she made me uncomfortable, two of my friends confess they’re only around me because they’re trying to convert me to catholicism.

I have 3 friends.

One of my friends say they can’t be around me because it gets them bullied for associating with a jew.

I have 2 friends.

One of my friends moves away.

I have 1 friend.

It takes me being in high school for two years before I actually make any new friends. Some online, some in person. I find a couple more people I connect with and call my friends. I don’t fit in with the rest of my classmates. I’m aggressively bullied by two different groups of classmates. Jew is still used as a slur. People yell “Heil Hitler” at me in the hallway. I can’t count the amount of times I’ve actually seen the Nazi salute in person.

Because “I look jewish enough, people can just tell. It’s a joke”.

Is it? Is it a joke?

2016. I just graduated highschool and I’m in my first week of my first semester of community college. I’m stalked to my car after night class and basically pinned between my car and a big truck. He grabbed my hair and hit my head against my car. This extremely tall man tells me he should beat me to death right now because I’m a disgusting jew. I believe he will.

I’m saved by a stranger who pulls up and makes the man uncomfortable enough that he leaves. In the large truck that had been parked next to me.

I had nothing on me that is “visibly jewish”. He followed me because I look jewish enough to torment. Because I am.

I hate myself for months because I froze. I start paranoia carrying concealed knives and pray I don’t have to use them. I obsess over learning self defense. I’m disabled and not sure I’d actually be able to protect myself. I learn anyway.

2017. I drop out of community college for a few different reasons. I’m stalked on social media. I delete a lot of my accounts.

I find a job. I’m harassed every shift for six months by a supervisor who said he was happy his family was Nazis in Germany. Among many, many other things. Such as gas chamber “jokes”. My manager tells me it was a joke and to not take it too seriously.

I was working at Starbucks.

2018. I’m told that my grandma dying is a good thing because there’s “one less jew in this world”. My grandma was buried in a grave at a local christian church that she attended most her life because that was the only community she had. We never said anything to anyone (it wasn’t safe). This was supposed to be a family friend. This is my grandma’s funeral.

Later I find out that someone stole the things we left at her grave.

2020. I’m working as a pharmacy technician. My coworkers find out I’m jewish and tell me “not to wear anything that could show that because the area isn’t safe” for me. Because I’m jewish.

I stay at this job for a year before returning to school.

2021. I don’t tell anyone, people guess because I “look jewish” and ask me based on appearance. I have found a more accepting community, but I don’t share much. I’ve learned better.

2022. I make it to University. I don’t talk much to classmates, but I make friends.

2023. I talk about religion with a friend at school, they find out I’m jewish. Some people start avoiding me after October. I have said nothing other than mentioning I’m jewish.

2024. I am told, to my face, by a college student, that jews control the United States government, the media, and Hollywood. Citing a major conspiracy theorist. When prompted to consider his sources, he tells me I’m only saying that because I’m jewish.

This list is not exhaustive, but it is exhausting. I’ve faced this shit my entire life and I’m not alone. My story isn’t unique.

It’s nearing the end of 2024. There has been a huge rise in antisemitism/bigotry over the past year. People are doing the same things they have always done. Tormenting jewish people, calling us slurs, telling us to kill ourselves. The list goes on.

The Nazis came for the jews first. Our neighbors turned on us. Other marginalized people we hoped we could rely on threw us out hoping to save themselves. Only for the Nazis to come for them.

First they came for us jews.

They will come for you.

Do something about it.

[christall77]

~❦A Dragon's Treasure❦~

M! Dragon x GN! Reader

I was gone for a long while but I hope it's still not too late to say Happy New Year! (⁠；⁠^⁠ω⁠^)

So I had this idea after I made an AI chat bot of this character so yeah, hope you guys enjoy and if you should find any mistakes feel free to tell me!

TW: Mentions of minor character deaths

Finally after days of traveling on the back of your horses, both you and your friend Adrian reach the destination of your quest. Or more so, Adrian's quest. The huge mountain is in sight, where the castle and home of the infamous dark dragon Ryunir should reside in. Including the princess the beast has stolen away from the kingdom. Every person around the land knows about the legendary maneating dragon, who hoards unfathomable amounts of gold and riches inside his castle and his hate for humanity. All stolen from kings and royals alike, but it seemed like he had a special grudge against the royals in the kingdom Adrian and you call home. The king was rightfully scared about the danger that could strike any day, so he sent an army of knights to get rid of the fire breathing lizard. Only to never hear from them again and have his precious daughter, princess Amelia get taken by the massive beast.

Many other knights have tried to save her, especially now after the king has promised his daughter's hand in marriage. Your friend being one of them. Him and the princess always acted all lovey dovey around each other even while you were there watching the whole thing unfold. So it was only a matter of time until he asked, no begged you to come with him on this quest to save her. Despite your own hesitation and second thoughts. You two have been through thick and thin, he's been there for you when you needed him and vise versa, which is the reason why you're now standing on the edge of the mountain. Having already dismounted your horse as Adrian follows.

“Are you really sure we should do this?”, your voice comes out after you gulp down the lump in your throat at the sight. Right at the edge a small wobbly bridge is the only thing that connects the ground of the mountain and castle, the dark abyss below surrounding it. Adrian gives you a comforting pat on the shoulder, the determination evident on his face. “Don't worry (y/n), we have been successful with all our quests so far. Besides, I can't sit around and have princess Amelia locked up forever!”, “That's what the other knights must've thought as well before they most likely busted into flames...”

Not wasting any more time he approaches the creaky bridge and gives the robes an experimental tug. Waving you over after deeming it save enough. The darkness below doesn't make the way any less nerve wrecking, but Adrian makes sure to have a good hold on you while carefully moving alongside with you. A sigh of relief you were holding in leaves you once making it safely to the other side, now entering the darkened castle as quietly as possible through the creaky doors. The sounds echoing through the long and high hallways in front. It definitely would take a lot of time until any of you would find the right tower or room where the princess is hidden away.

Each step has to be chosen carefully, as any sound might alert the massive dragon residing somewhere deep within the castle. The floors and walls littered with cracks and damages, evidence that this place is much older and hasn't been taken care of in ages. Adrian clutches his sword tightly in his hands beside you, looking left and right towards each different corridor. With a nod to himself he turns to you and whispers, “Maybe we should split up...”, taking a few steps forward he chooses to go straight ahead. “You guard the entrance and distract the dragon, if he finds you first and I'll search for Amelia.”

“Are you crazy?!" You whisper shout towards him as your head almost snaps back towards him, keeping your tone down, ”I get that we might cover some more space this way, but mind you there's no way it would improve our chances with the dragon! Wait- Adrian!“ Before you could protest any further he speed walks away. Leaving you alone in the middle of the halls. ”I swear if I die I'll kill him if the dragon doesn't.“ You grumble to yourself, stepping through one of the hallways closest to the left. One hand hovering over the weapon in your belt just in case as you reassure yourself internally.

It almost feels like hours wandering around but finding nothing but even more halls and even the occasional bones of previous living humans who've entered the castle, which causes shivers to run down your spine. You've probably walked around in circles now but kept yourself close to the entrance like Adrian asked you to. Eventually the soles of your feet start to bother you and you decide to take a small seat on a small staircase. Checking your equipment and hoping that Adrian has found the princess in the while you were walking around aimlessly.

”This is so stupid... Should've known he would run off by himself again. Probably to also show off and be 'the knight in shining armor' for her.“ Consumed in your own little quiet rant and thoughts, you fail to notice the dark silhouette that starts to stirr behind you from your words. A large single golden eye opening and gazing down at the small human sitting below. Only once the massive beast rises and its hot breath blows against your back do you freeze, before slowly and anxiously turning around to face the dragon. It certainly was a sight you can't deny, after all you always had a respect and fascination with dragons, but at this moment survival is more important. A deep gutteral growl rumbles in the back of its throat, followed by a fierce ear piercing roar.

Stumbling up from your seat you make a run for it, barely managing to avoid its jaws, screaming in terror as the rumbling of footsteps follow close behind. In hopes of loosing the creature you run through every hall and corridor possible, making sure to take sharp turns, but no matter what you do the dragon keeps up without trouble. Shooting fireballs at you from time to time which you barely manage to avoid thankfully. It's only once you come to a dead end do you start panicking fully, looking around for any possible way out but finding none you press yourself against the wall. Hoping that the hard surface behind somehow swallows you up and takes you away from this place as your body trembles in fear. Wings unfurled from his back in an intimidating display the dragon approaches slowly, as if savoring the fact that you're trapped and about to face your demise.

Unable to think straight your brain decides to do the unthinkable as your widened eyes take in the size of him almost filling the entire hallway you're in. Instead of drawing your weapon or getting out of there you hurriedly blurt out, ”P-Please spare me big beautiful dragon.!“ Closing both eyes tightly, you await a fireball to roast you, or sharp teeth clamping down and kill you. Yet nothing happens. Opening one of your eyes you see the dragon has stopped in front of you, he seemed caught of guard by that compliment and tilts his head as puffs of smoke leave through his nostrils.

Never in his life was the red scaled beast complimented by a human, either having faced insults, fear and anger thrown at him. So this surprises him greatly, in a pleasant way. ”You think I'm beautiful human?“ He rumbles, his voice echoing through the halls as it bounces off the walls. Seeing that it somehow stopped the dragon from attacking you quickly nod. It might've been something you said in a panic, but after taking a good look at the creature you can't deny his majestic and powerful presence.

”Y-yes. I mean it's not every day one is face to face with an amazing creature of legends like a dragon.“, Your genuine interest in his kind stirrs a strange warmth within his large scaly chest, but not the usual heat he emits, it's foreign yet pleasant. A feeling he now wants to continue experiencing out of newfound curiosity. Moving his long neck down so his head is a little closer the creature gives you an expectant look as if asking what made you say all of this. ”Tell me, what about me is so beautiful little human?“

In response you let your gaze wander over the different parts of him, pointing out everything that intrigues you. ”Well for starters I've never seen wings so huge and cool like this. It always sounded interesting to experience flying, though I could only read about it in books.“, a small nervous chuckle leaves you before you continue while the huge dragon listens intently how you compliment him more. Things like how shiny his wine red scales look, those horns that give him an even more intimidating yet regal appearance and so on and so forth.

”But I think your eyes are the most beautiful thing of you, they shine like gold..“ At this point you seem to be rambling on as if forgetting about the danger you've been in. Though the dragon doesn't mind, in fact he likes it. Your last compliment struck a chord inside, feeling the beating of his heart quicken as his pupils dilate and the subtle sound of purring reverberates through his entire being. A pleased purr leaves the dragon as his head tilts so his large eye is peering down at your smaller frame better. ”What is your name little one?", he inquires curiously. Once you introduce yourself, a small smile makes its way onto his face when he tastes your name upon his tongue.

“It suits you little one. I'm Ryunir, it's very much a pleasure meeting you.” There's a strange haze that crosses his gaze which makes you fidget underneath its intensity. Another puff of warm air blows against your frame as he inhales and exhales deeply, taking in your scent. “Thank you, I'd like to chat a little longer but uhm...”, you pause trying to find the right words to say next. “I need to find my friend again so we can leave in peace.”

The dragon frowns upon hearing the word 'leave'. Since Ryunir has set his eyes upon you, he had a feeling you didn't come here all the way alone and were either here to steal the gold or rescue the princess he took. No matter which one it was he doesn't care anymore. Stealing the princess was only to spite the king who has made Ryunir's life more miserable by sending countless knights for centuries, before (y/n) and their friend to kill him for not only his riches, but also for his scales and head. Which is why he has started to reign terror over the people of this kingdom ever since. Yes he did keep the girl away from being saved, but Ryunir never liked having her here either. But now that you're here? Your friend could rescue the royal away for all he cares, what he wants is to have you by his side for the rest of his life.

In the dragon's eyes you've become his most priced treasure, his mate. Ryunir can't believe it himself entirely as well, yet there's something inside him that tells him that you are meant to be his. Wether it's instincts or the fact that he's been lonely without any positive interactions for as long as the beast can remember for the recent few 100 of years, one thing is for sure. You've made your way into his heart and there's nothing that's going to take you away from him.

“Leave? No... Stay with me little one.”, before you could protest or say anything further the dragon leans down with a soft whine. Snatching you up by the back of your gear, like a mother cat carrying her kittens and taking you deeper into the castle. “W-Wait! No I can't stay.! Adrien!” Paying your calls for help no mind, the dragon continues with a small pep in his step. The sound of his footsteps echoing through the silent empty hallways until entering a large chamber filled with riches. Mountains upon mountains of gold, jewels and many more things that has some type of value as far as your eyes can see. Reaching his desired spot surrounded by a few pillars, Ryunir gently drops you down before coiling his tail around you in a warm and protective embrace. Lighting up the torches and chandeliers hanging upon the walls, ceiling and columns with a light breath of fire, surrounding the both of you in a more cozy atmosphere.

Holding you close to his red scaly body as he gets comfortable, curling up and nuzzling his snout against your smaller head. His entire being vibrating as he purrs affectionately. “Comfy my dear treasure?”, Ryunir rumbles softly in question. “Yes?” Your answer comes out more like a question than intended but the beast takes it nonetheless with a pleased growl. “Don't worry, I won't do anything you're not comfortable with. You're mine now and I intend to have my mate protected and satisfied no matter what."

His words are filled with honesty and utter devotion. A promise to keep you safe and under his care for as long as he lives. Tenderly brushing a few strands of hair out of your face with his claw, making sure to not hurt or scratch you with it. Despite your initial reluctance you end up enjoying his company more than anticipated. Keeping light conversations all the while showing nothing but tenderness and longing towards you. His heat emitting from his body also helps calming down your thoughts, practically melting into his coils until the both of you take a rest together and doze off.

It's only after what felt a few moments later that someone is trying to shake you awake. With a small groan your eyes meet Adrian who has a panicked look on his face, the princess hiding at the doorway of the gigantic chamber. ”(Y/n) wake up!“ He whisper shouts, making sure to not wake the beast sleeping beside you. Blinking both eyes open, startled you meet your friend's gaze. ”Oh now you're showing up? Where were you almost an hour ago?!“, flailing your hands in expiration you then let out a deep sigh after hearing your friend's apology.

”I'm sorry (y/n), but this beast has trapped me earlier but luckily I made it out. And look! I found Amelia!“ Gesturing towards the girl she gives you a quiet wave of her hand, yet she's visibly tense by the fact that the dragon is here. Adrian freezes swiftly when the dragon in question shifts but doesn't wake up just yet, instead pulling you closer towards his head despite still being asleep. ”Lets get you out of here...“, he whispers climbing up the pile of gold, as sneakily as those allow him to be until he reaches you and holds out his leather gloves hand. Grasping yours and trying to pull you out of the tight coils around your frame.

”Adrian, please stop. Just leave!“ Ushering him away in a hurry as the tail tightens around you. ”Take Amelia and go.“, Adrian pauses then shakes his head, ”I'm not leaving you here with this monster (y/n)!“ He gives you a look that tells you that he won't back down no matter what. With a final pull with both of his hands he manages to get his friend out, almost falling down the gold pile in the process, managing to catch the both of you steady just barely.

Though the quiet celebration was short lived once the eye of the beast opens, as if sensing that his mate is not within his hold anymore. His pupils turn into slits upon seeing the both of you, in particular your friend holding you close. With a furious roar he rises, the riches around you flying and getting thrown everywhere as he moves. ”Come hurry! This way!“ Princess Amelia yells out, holding the door open as Adrian pulls you along as fast as possible. Just narrowly escaping Ryunir's jaws and rushing towards the entrance with you and the princess in tow who points out the direction towards the exit she has found at a time in her own attempts to escape.

Behind you the enraged dragon roars out and wastes no time chasing after the group of three, through every hallway possible. Luckily with Amelia on their side there won't be a chance to run into any dead ends. Soon the exit is in sight and Adrian pushes the both of you forward, stopping in his tracks to face Ryunir with a determined face. Before the dragon could let out his breath of fire, your friend cuts the rope beside him which was holding the massive metal gate of the entrance up, only to have it slam down upon the dragon's scaly back. A furious and pained shriek getting forced from his being. Successfully trapping him underneath as he trashes wildly on hopes of getting out. Not wasting any more time Adrian pushes you and the princess forward onto the wobbly bridge until you finally reach the mountain once more.

Relief rushes through the other two once the group got onto their horse and gallop away, yet as you leave in tow the cries of Ryunir still can be heard in the distance. As if calling out for you to return at the loss of your presence. With a heavy heart and head held low you stay quiet for the rest of the trip back until reaching the kingdom at last heart still beating wildly from the escape.

When Adrian brought back the king's daughter he was allowed to, as promised, to be wed to Amelia, which of course he couldn't turn down. Days have gone by until the wedding finally comes around, you couldn't be happier for your friend but the events from the castle still linger in your mind. As absurd as one might think it is, you actually ended up enjoying your time with Ryunir even if it was a rough start and he tried to kill you initially. But somehow he wove himself into your heart and leaving him made you feel bad.

As you sit by the lake by yourself lost in thought Adrian approached you from behind and gives you a concerned look. ”What's wrong (y/n)? This is my wedding party, have some fun... I don't want to see my best friend down on such a beautiful day.“, squeezing your shoulder gently he tries to lighten up the mood but ends up sitting down beside you on the grass not caring if his white suit gets dirty. ”Something is bothering you...“ he points out, already knowing that it must be something that happened regarding the quest. Finally nodding your head you turn to him, ”Remember the dragon?“

Scrunching his eyebrows he nods giving you a concerned look. ”Has he hurt you?“, he questions, ”No it's not that, he seemed to like me... We actually talked and it felt nice.“ Adrian listens to your ramblings, showing his surprise and disbelief at the story you're telling him. After all, how could the dark dragon which the kingdom has feared for so long be the same you described?

All of a sudden a shadow casts overhead making the two of you blink in confusion. The roar and beating of large wings in the distance unmistakable. And speak of the devil, Ryunir has arrived. He must've freed himself somehow and now is circling the castle before diving down. Hearing screams and distressed yells from the people the both of you rush towards the chaos. Men and women running frantically to get safe as the king shouts orders towards his knights to take down the monster. Adrian joins them as you stand there for a moment to let the situation process in your head.

Ryunir lands harshly in the middle of the town, growling fiercely as his gaze fleets over the crowd of humans. Hoping to find his mate somewhere in those masses. Not caring if he steps over buildings or other structures, knocking them down in his frantic search. Picking up people with his claws that might resemble your appearance before tossing them away carelessly after seeing it's not the human he's looking for. The knights rush into the scene and start firing arrows upon arrows at the beast, only angering him further even though they barely even pierce his skin. Becoming annoyed by their attempts to kill him he lifts his head high in the air before surrounding the army with hot flames. Some manage to get out of the attack just barely yet badly wounded. Leaping into the air to move more inward of the kingdom he continues looking until a lone knight catches his attention. Recognizing Adrian immediately his nostrils flare up with smoke, seeing the one that has in his eyes, taken away his mate from him fills himnwith unbridled rage.

Seeing the anger flash across the dragon's visage your friend turns around a corner to avoid the incoming fire blast. The flames almost burning his suit. He has to find you quickly, if what you told him was true then Ryunir must be here for a special reason. Avoiding one fire ball after another, Adrian rushes towards the castle grounds towards the woods where he last saw you. With a loud roar the dark dragon climbs up one of the towers and leaps down, the force shaking the ground, sending dust all over and making Adrian stumble the powerful force of the wind throwing him against a nearby tree.

Forcing your friend against the wooden bark, Ryunir's throat starts heating up as he prepares to end the human in front of him, mouth wide open to rip him into pieces. ”Stop!“, Ryunir's jaws clamp shut just inches away, immediately turning his head towards the sound of your voice. The panic and worry on your face very much evident, you hurry over just to stand a safe distance away to keep his attention away from your friend. When he finally sees you standing there in the flesh, his wings lower and his eyes soften. His pupils dilating as he slowly steps closer, ”(y/n)...“, with an almost inaudible murmur Ryunir utters your name. Standing before you his head lowers towards you, sniffing and taking in your scent as if to make sure you're really there in front of him. Finally placing both of your hands upon his scaly snout he rumbles contently and closes his eyes, calming down against the soft caresses.

Adrian's gaze fleets between his friend and the massive dragon as he catches his breath. ”What's happening..?“, slowly he tries to force himself onto his feet with a groan, leaning against the trunk of the tree for support. The dragon immediately starts growling again turning his heated gaze back, but before any of you could say or do anything Ryunir gently lifts you off the ground just like the first time he did, sending Adrian another glare with a loud huff before spreading those massive wings and flying away.

Instead of landing at the castle like you assumed he stops at a far distance away in a clearing amidst the woods, landing safely by a lake and making sure to set you down on your two feet. ”There, you're safe now my mate.“, he announces proudly puffing out his chest, ”That bad human won't steal you away from me again.“ Ryunir wraps his tail around you and pulls you close, a pleasant warmth running through his entire body when you return the gesture.

”He's actually my friend Ryunir, he wasn't trying to steal me away. Adrian thought you would've eaten me back then in the castle.“, you clarify. For a moment his purring comes to a halt as he stares down into those eyes of yours, when he sees that you're actually being serious he averts his gaze almost like a pet that has been caught in an act. Yet he doesn't seem to be bothered by the chaos he's caused and quickly focuses back on the human before him. ”Oh well that doesn't matter. What matters is having my beloved treasure by my side again.“, without thinking he leans down and gives you a loving lick on the cheek. Seeing how stunned you are from his action he lets out an amused chuckle, curling up around your smaller frame, his head resting against yours. ”And there's nothing that will seperate us. That's a promise“

[sheeple]

Miracles don't exist | 40: As the world caves in

Genre(s): Riddle!reader / Slytherin!reader / kinda slowburn / little happy moments Fandom(s): Harry Potter Pairing(s): Theodore Nott x Reader / Harry Potter x Riddle!reader Summary: Being the Dark Lord's daughter and raised under the strict supervision of the Malfoy's is no easy life. Especially if you start crushing on your father's arch-nemesis, Harry Potter. And that while being engaged to one of his follower’s sons. Warning(s): Death A/n: The epilogue follows asap lmao [Masterlist] [Mini masterlist] [Playlist]

"Can you walk?" Theo holds out both of his hands for you to take. You nod and hold on tightly to his hands. He heaves you up and you stumble before finding your footing. Holding up a hand, you stumble a few more times before finally being stable on your feet.

"How do you feel?"

You take a deep breath, straightening up. How do you feel? You don't feel any different than before. However... something feels different. Something's missing. Your best guess is that that is the part of his soul that has left your body. "I don't- I don't know. Lighter?" 

Theo hums, his thumb tracing circles around your waist. "Are you sure you're well enough? We can stay down here. Stay safe."

His suggestion makes you frown. Stay down here and wait the fight out? It's a sensible thought. But why does it make you feel so uneasy? Yes, it's the safest option to wait the war out. But you've come too far, seen too much to do nothing.

"We have to help, Teddy. I want to see with my own eyes how he loses."

A deep sigh escapes Theo and he rubs a hand over his face as he mumbles something about his wife being too good for her own good. It makes you smile widely.

He wraps an arm over your shoulders as he peeks his head outside of the potions classroom. Once he deems it safe, with his wand in his hand, he makes sure you are stable enough on your feet.

You climb up the stairs slowly and surely, finding the silence and emptiness of the entire castle jarring. "Where is everybody?", you whisper, looking around the great hall.

"There", points Theo as he sees the last people exit the castle.

Students stand around as the entirety of the Dark Lord’s army stands at the entrance of the battle-worn courtyard. A triumphant look on his face while Nigini slithers between his feet. Hagrid — bound with ropes and held in place by two Death Eaters — holds something in his arms, a sorrowful look on his face. 

Oh no… that can only mean one thing…

“Harry Potter… is dead!”

Ginny cries out while running forward. Mr Weasley manages to pull her back before she’s hit by a spell.

“Silence! Stupid girl. Harry Potter is dead. From this day forth, you put your faith in me.”

The courtyard is filled with dreadful silence, students silently sobbing as they look at Harry’s corps. Your hand reaches out to Teddy and you clutch him tightly, scared that if you don’t hold him, he’ll disappear. 

The Dark Lo- no. Voldemort. Voldemort looks back at his supporters as they laugh at their victory. He spreads his arms and looks at the crowd. “And now is the time to declare yourself. Come forward and join us. Or die.”

Bellatrix climbs on top of a broken pillar so she has an overview of the battlefield. She has a wide smile on her face, a look of pure enjoyment. It sickens you. It makes you want to hurt her. 

But the gleeful look soon disappears from both of their faces as nobody moves. Voldemort’s eyes search the crowd, searching for something it seems. And once they lock onto yours, they stay. He reaches out a hand, his palm open. “My Heir. My daughter, join us.”

Students around you step out of the way, terror in their eyes. Theo’s hold on your hand tightens and he pushes you behind him. He shakes his head, but you lay a hand on his shoulder. With a whisper you reassure it’s all going to be fine and that you won’t let him win.

Slowly, you make your way down the rubble towards Voldemort, who stands with his arms wide open. You stop just shortly out of his reach, fists balled and wand in the ready. 

“Ah. Well done, my Heir. Well done.” He expects you to come to him. But you stay where you are, staring him down.

“It doesn’t matter that Harry is gone. You’ve lost. And you helped to bring your own demise by killing him. Don’t you think I wouldn’t figure out what my special mission was? What you’ve made of me. What you made of Harry.”

Voldemort pulls his hands back to his side, an unreadable look on his face. “You insolent child”, he hisses as Nigini slithers dangerously at her master’s feet, her eyes set on you.

You glance at the snake, twirling your wand in between your fingers. You look back at Voldemort, your eyes silently telling that you know. You know that she’s the last Horcrux. And it’s only her before he’s dead. 

“You’ve grown weak, Father. And Death is waiting for you.” You fire a blast at him, but he reflects it. You jump out of the way as his spells and curses barely miss you. 

While you’ve distracted Voldemort, Harry rolls out of Hagrid’s arms and tries to set the snake on fire. It deflects and hits the Death Eaters behind her. 

The crowd of Hogwarts students flee inside while the Death Eaters either advance on the group or flee in puffs of smoke. In the flurry of people, you see a head of platinum blonde run across the courtyard, towards his parents and disappear with them.

You manage to make your way inside without getting too gravely injured. It’s mostly scrapes and burns. You’ve also lost the interest of Voldemort, as he’s going after Harry. Instead, you have Bellatrix hot on your heels. She cackles and calls after you, wildly firing curses that barely miss you. 

Somehow you’ve ended up in the Great Hall just as she corners you. You’ve stumbled over something and landed on your ass. Just as she raises her wand to give the final blow, she gets lunched off her feet. She hits the wall behind her with an ‘oof’ and slumps down. 

Theo runs towards you and pulls you back on your feet. You give him a nod before turning your attention back to Bellatrix. The two of you stand side to side, your wands raised and a determined look on your faces. 

She jumps up, running towards you with snarled teeth. She laughs as you yelp and try your best to stop her. Theo and you fight in tandem. But she’s more powerful than you thought, easily deflecting each spell. But she can’t keep this up, and it shows. Her moves become sloppy and she actually gets hit a couple of times.

While she gets sluggish, your moves only become more powerful and vicious. Blow after blow, you hit her with more vigour until you hit her square in the chest and she halts in the middle of the air, a petrified look on her face. 

You reel your arm back and just for a second the killing curse flashes through your mind. No. You won’t lower yourself to their level. Instead, you concentrate all your might and power on your wand and fire a red blast towards her. She floats for a moment before dropping dead, her body contorting strangely. Her wide and lifeless eyes stare up at you.

Your chest rises rapidly as you watch her Suddenly, it connects. You’ve killed her. You’ve just killed Bellatrix Lestrange. As your eyes keep their focus on hers, you stumble backwards in the arms of Theo. Looking up, you find comfort in his own brown ones. They say you’ve done well. It was a necessary evil.

"It's okay", he whispers, pulling you away to have you not look at the corpse. "You had to. It was you or her."

His words bounce around your head, but they don't land. You're still dazed. Theo makes sure to tuck you under his chin, keeping you safe until the air clears and the word spreads Voldemort is dead. Harry has defeated him and the Dark Lord has dropped dead like an ordinary man.

The two of you stay glued together sitting on a bench, mugs in your hands. You don't move until you see Sirius, Remus, and Tonks approach you.

You jump up from the bench and hug Sirius tightly. He engulfs you while pressing a kiss to the crown of your head. You keep your arms around Sirius until they grow numb. And even then you don't want to part ways. 

Theo replaces Sirius in holding you and you melt into his arms. "It's done", he whispers into your hair. "It's finally over."

A tired smile grows on your face. "The war is over. Let's go home."

Taglist (bold means I couldn’t tag you): @the0doreslover @lqndkxlmqma @st4rrry  @choppedpartymuffinwinner @ledtassoo @literallyobessed @lestat-whore​ @vanishingcherry @harrysnovia @pietrobae @ireallywannasleep127 @yeolsbubbles @fruityfrog505 @fluffybunnyu @theroyalmanatee @shinrjj @hegdus @kermits-bitch @m1kasawps @noah-uhhh-what @mypolicemanharryyy @fals3-g0d @decapitated-coffee @thatgirljas13 @slytherinambitious @raineisms @mastermindmiko @timmytime17 @regsg18 @supernatural-lover @bubybubsters @lafrone @hermionelove @the-sander-fander @akengii @aliciacat20 @unstablereader @burns-in-the-sun @rachelnicolee @damagelove @mqndrqke @llpovi @clairesjointshurt @222244445555 @jolly4holly @padf00ts-l0ver @fandom-life-12 @prettyb1tchsblog @pari-1 @f14ever @nopedefe @randomgurl2326 @rinalouu @yazminetrahan @ellen3101 @comfyvic

[dani-luminae]

Since people don't really need magic to solve their problems or to grant their wishes, Asha would simply give her "clients" tools to help them achieve their own wishes.

Unlike Magnifico half assing his followers by giving them items seen in their wish bubbles and tells them their wish is granted, Asha would only grant half of their wish and help/encourage them to complete it.

Like she can give Cinderella a dress and carriage, things she needed to have a nice night out but not exactly the thing to get her to leave her abusive life. Instead, it's simply a chance of happiness Cinderella deserves to have so that she would finally have enough hope to be encouraged to pursue leaving her step family's abuse.

She can turn the Tremaine's into toads, but that is something she would definitely not do. She could only grant "good" wishes and that forcing a wish would deem it selfish as it means harming others to achieve it.

This ask is just impeccable and so completely right.

Asha's wish-granting is intentional. "I don't want you to wait on having your wish granted, here is what you need to go and make your wish come true on your own." And she won't grant wishes in a way that harms others, not matter how "bad" they are. Because if she learned anything from her experience with Magnifico, it's always to question: who defines good and bad, safe or dangerous?

Sure, she'll defy those who wish to harm others (like Maleficent) but that's completely different.

(Though that makes me think of the Three Good Fairies in Sleeping Beauty:

Merriweather: "Oh, I'd like to turn [Maleficent] into a fat old pop toad!"

Flora (paraphrased): "Now, dear, that's not how it works. Our magic can only be used for good, to make people happy!"

Merriweather: "Well, it would make me happy!")

[altaneenarts]

Hello! Do you have mush's au dnf zombie fic? I can't find it ಥ⁠‿⁠ಥ. And whenever you talk about their works at the end of your fic I feel so intrigued!.. Good work btw it's sooo amazing! Can't wait for your future fics. I appreciate your writing a lot ༼⁠ ⁠つ⁠ ⁠◕⁠‿⁠◕⁠ ⁠༽⁠つ

First of all—thank youuuu 😭 I’m glad you like it! Writing brings me so much joy so I’m happy to share it <3 tysm for reading

As for your other question, unfortunately, there is no fic 😔 their au was posted in a series of tweets and art comics that have since been deleted once they left the fandom. I explain more in my previous ask here, but since there is no fic/documentation I might as well give a run down of what the story was (fair warning that my memory might be slightly dated or inaccurate due to the changing nature of the story—anyone feel free to throw in what they remember)

The setting takes place in modern times where all of Dream Team and their friends are still content creators. The cortex outbreak hits after the face reveal and George has moved to Florida. Dream and George end up stranded together while Sapnap is stuck in North Carolina on a trip to visit Karl.

In all the chaos of the apocalypse, George and Karl become infected. George becomes a variant 4, the Flower (known for the tendrils in their mouth that they use to spread the infection and its ability to use personal attachment to manipulate potential victims). Karl becomes a variant 7, the mimic (known for the way the virus adapts to its hosts and learns how to act “human”. They can also talk to draw in prey)

Both zombies “attach” to their victims (Dream & Sapnap) as the cortex inside them deems keeping them alive better for their survival. Mushie’s AU follows mostly dnf as George’s cortex adapts to George’s brain, allowing it to use George’s memories and occasionally his voice (tho minimally). Dream believes George is still alive somehow and takes care of him—feeding him people, and keeping him safe from said people. Every once in a while, George will try to speak or hum some of Dream’s songs. Eventually, Dream slowly becomes infected himself. It’s not instant, as the cortex within him adapts differently into a new variation that leaves him more aware but still craving zombie tendencies.

As Dream grows worse, he attempts to find a cure, traveling to reach labs across the country. Eventually, he finds a place that was able to make a single antidote. There’s no certainty it will work but he gives it to George. Eventually, miraculously, it works. During the zombification, George was still conscious but his mind and body were controlled by the cortex inside his brain. Once the cortex died, it released control of his body. He doesn’t recover immediately after being not in control of his body for such a long time, but enough that he knows that the lab needs to make another cure for Dream or risk reversing their positions.

—

That is where my memory ends. There are plenty of one off scenarios that they drew, some of which they probably didn’t canonize but this is how the story goes in my brain.

I hope this helps fill some of yalls curiosity. My version is different from this as I’m sure you figured, but I drew heavily from theirs.

[marymary-diva17]

leave him alone leave us all alone (2)

neteyam x female Ao’nung + sully family/tonowari family and others

Silence had fallen upon the reef village, as we had went to their homes for the rest of the night. The sully family and company were all waiting for neteyam to wake up, this was not like the situation with Kiri. The eldest sully child had been through a nightmare and everyone expect a select few could blame angi. As they were all waiting for him to wake up none of them knew, of the tragedy that will follow do to everyone words and actions. Let with two human saying that Jake and human has helped everyone learn, one being actions have consequences and you don’t know what you have until it gone.

Loak “ dad when it going to wake up”

Jake “ I don’t know loak we have to be patient and wait”

loak “ I hate waiting like this we had been through this to many time and all because, of angi she never thinks about anyone but herself”

tsireya “ loak”

loak “ I’m sorry but I’m mad right now my brother nearly dead once, and now she might dead because of angi selfish actions”

tonowari “ angi will be dealt with later and I will make sure she stays away from neteyam, and your family along with anyone else until you deem right Jake sully”

Jake “ thank you”

neytiri “ I will like it if she never comes or speak to my kids or anyone of my clan never again, in her life she a shameful child of eywa”

ronal “ I will make sure that girl is disciplined for what happened that child has brought so much, shame to our family”

Tonowair “ ronal”

ronal “ no that girl has to learn once the boy wake up she will learn to act mature, or leave here and never come back we have to think for best of our family and clan … along with everyone else”

Moat “ there must be more to this story”

Neytiri “ there nothing to this story mother she a bad child that all” moat was going to say something else she hated now everyone, was speaking about this girl who was not her to defend herself.

Tuk “ daddy what are these things doing” Tuk was pointing towards the patch’s on neteyam body.

Jake “ they are helping your brother sweetheart they are showing us his heart rate and brain waves, like with Kiri”

kiri “ please neteyam don’t leave us please great mother bring him”

loak “ take someone else but not him please not him”

Rotox “ we are here for you guys”

Kiri “ thank you” everyone was waiting a bit longer ronal and moat, helping the boy with the help of Kiri and tsireya. As everyone was watching and waiting, making small conversations to pass the time. soon enough neteyam moved.

Tuk “ he moved” everyone race to see neteyam still laying there no moving.

loak “ Tuk you are seeing stuff”

Tuk “ no he moved I saw it Loak”

Neytiri “ no more fighting either one of you”

neteyam “ ummm” neteyam soon groaned getting everyone attention, as they soon saw him moving a bit.

Neytiri “ ma son”

neteyam “ hey mom” neyetam had given a weak smile at his family, who soon hugged him gently happy to see he awake.

Jake “ son you had us worried there”

Neteyam “ sorry dad about that wow everyone is here”

Tonowari “ yes we came to see you after you arrived home from the storm on payakan back, with my daughter” soon neteyam smile had gone away as he was looking around and looked worried and confused. 

Loak “ don’t worry about payakan he okay the take care looked at him, he will need yo take it ways but he will be good”

Neteyam “ that good but where is angi” the room had fallen silent as everyone looked at neteyam. 

Tonowari “ she at home young man im sorry about my daughter…. “

Neteyam “ can I see her she was with me I’m worried about her”

Tonowari “ I will honor that for you but she might not stay for long” neteyam was confused about everything that was happening. 

Tonowari “ Tsireya and Rotox go get your sister”

Loak “ father may I go with them to help and make sure she doesn’t do anything else”

Jake” sure make sure to stay safe” 

Neteyam “ what happened” 

Neytiri “don’t worry everything will be okay” the three teens soon rushed toward tonowari home. 

Tsireya “ stay here loak”

Loak “ no I’m coming with you I’m not leaving you alone with her”

Tsireya “ stop it loak she my sister and I still care for her so stop now” loak had nodded his head and stayed outside, as the brother and sister went to see angi. 

Tsireya “ angi wake up wake up it wonderful, neteyam woke up and he asked to see you” tsireya enter her sister room to see it was dark. 

Rotox “ she most be asleep wake her up and I will light a lantern” Rotox found a lantern and soon light was in the room, but there is some uncomfortable silence in the room. 

Tsireya “ angi in sorry to wake you up like this but I have good news neteyam, awake be he wants to see you” angi was still not moving the brother and sister looked at each other. 

Tsireya “ angi ….” Tsireya soon turned her sister over and looked at her, to see the girl had her eyes open and they were pearly white and she was not moving. Next came a wail from tsireya. 

Tsireya “ angi angi say something please  angi … loak get in her we need you” soon the sound of someone racing into the room came, loak had came her to help as he thought a fight was happening but saw something else. Angi was laying on the ground her head in Reya lap. 

Tsireya “ we need to get her help we need to get her to healer hut right now” 

Loak “ …….”

Rotox “ don’t stand there you fool help me carry her to the healer hut now”

Loak “ yes we have to move her gently”The trio soon raced off towards the healer hut. The two siblings hoping that their sister will be okay. 

Healer hut 

Ronal “ what is taking them so long” 

Tonowari “ easy there my love they will be here soon”

????? “ help someone help” tsireya screams for help had been heard tonowari, went into over protective father mode as tsireya soon entered the hut. 

Tonowari “ reya what has happens are you hurt is your brother hurt”

Jake “ is loak hurt” 

Tsireya “ no is none of us it angi something happened to her”

Neytiri “ what has that girl done now”everyone soon looked up and saw the two teen boys carrying angi, she was not moving at all. 

Moat “ lay her down now over there” it seems like no one has been told of angi condition right now. Once the boys laid her down and placed a blanket over her, that when everyone saw her face. 

Ronal “ angi”

Moat “ oh dear great mother” 

Neteyam “ angi she is okay what happened”

Tsireya “ we don’t know I turned her over she he didn’t wake up when we called her, and then we saw her like this” 

Moat “ we have to move fast” 

Jake “ loak go get norm and Max bring them over here and tell them what happened, help them carry their stuff here”

Tsu’tey “ I will help as well”

Spider “ I will help us as well”

Rotox “ me too”

Jake “ go now all of you the scientist could help” 

Neteyam “ let me help us as well

Neytiri “ no son you most stay here you are hurt”

Tuk “ angi” the group soon left right away going to get help, but it didn’t take them that long to get back with help and other stuff as well. 

Norm “ we are here to help we brought what was needed” a crowd was forming outside as everyone was looking. 

Moat “ good I’m going to need your help ronal you need step back, as we will be working on angi”

Ronal “ no I can help”

Moat “ yes you can but it won’t be able to help right now, tonowair take her please” tonowair soon had taken ronal back as everyone, was doing what was needed at the moment. Soon some of scientists had moved the blanks and gasped and shocked faces were shown and heard. 

Scientist "what has happen to this girl" soon everyone had gotten a look of angi body as they were some weird parts.

norm " was she hit by lighten" norm was looking at all the adults looking for answers as he looked so scared, as everyone took out some other tools and other stuff.

neteyam " yes she was" everyone soon looked at neteyam as he spoke he was sitting up a bit with the help of tuk.

neteyam " after she rescued me from underwater she laid me on payakan back, lighten and thunder had come the lighten made it way to us and soon hit us three ... she was still the water I think you took the most of the impact sparing me and payakan" spider soon went to help tuk support neteyam as he looked at angi.

Scientist " bad this is bad do you know the chance of surviving being hit by lightning"

Jake " ....."

norm " Jake you know how bad it to be hit by lightning"

Jake " yes"

max " in water it a miracle she made it back here with neteyam and payakan, any other way she will be worst off faith ... did you all notice this"

tonowari " no neteyam was not moving we were all worried about him"

norm " what else had happen to her"

mo'at " her eyes are showing no color they are pearly white" one of the scientists was looking at angi eyes it was not good.

Scientist 2 "poor girl did anything else happen when she was out .... oh for the love of everything someone say something"

neteyam " she was taken out by a wave as well I think she might of hit something on the back on her head and back" soon someone came rushing into the room.

keeper " payakan told us to check your daughter out she was hit as well, from the storm"

norm " move her over slowly and don't move her out of place something else might happen" the soon moved the girl to see she had injuries as well.

tsireya " sister"

norm "this is bad very bad"

tonowari " can you save her"

max " ......."

ronal " can you save my daughter please save her"

mo'at " we can but we most move her else where to empty home for her to heal"

rotxo " we have one that close between the humans and moat"

norm " well everyone we are going to move her slowly and together" anyone who was able helped moved angi and the stuff needed elsewhere.

Scientist " no you all need to wait out here"

ronal " you will not give me orders"

mo'at " fine I will stay out here on only I and my elder healers along with the scientist can stay in her and help that all, we are going to need some lanterns and candle"

tsireay " I can go get some with the others"

kiri " yes I will do anything help"

mo'at " I need my herbs as well get them" the kids had raced off and someone was left guard to watched or mostly keep tonowari and ronal from enter the room. The kids had come back with the stuff the only ones who were allowed to enter were tsireya and kiri, as the others went to be with neteyam. The whole village was up as everyone was trying to see what will happen next. Soon mo'at had come out with norm.

Jake " is she okay"

tonowari " yes tell me about my daughter she is alive"

norm "we saved her were were able to heal her back for now, she will need a long recovery process after this horrible night"

ronal " that good right"

mo'at " no she a deep sleep right now she not wake up no matter what I did, she is alive but breathing slowly and not moving"

neytiri " no"

mo'at " the light from the candles and lantern will serve her well during the night she here, and will help her as their smells will help clear what bad aura and spirts she has become of this day"

mo'at " you all can come see her but she careful and ready for what you will see" the adults had nodded their heads as they enter the room, angi eyes were closed as she was bandage up.

ronal " my sweet daughter ma angi what has happen to you my child"

neytiri " mother do you know"

mo'at " no I have never seen anything like this in my life ever, tomorrow I'm going to seek out the great mother and ask her for help"

Jake " help the child on what"

mo'at " on the rest of her recovery as she going to need all the help"

norm " when she wake up we will need to run test on her as, thing might never be the same for her after what has happened tonight"

max " it best if everyone get thier rest tonight and someone stay with her here"

tonowari " I wills stay ..."

mo'at " no I will stay neteyam can go home tonight and be washed by his family, I will stay and watched her while taking times to rest and pray for angi"

Jake " there most be something we can do mo'at"

norm " there nothing else we can tonight but wait and watch, and find out later what happened"

tonowari "Jake sully"

Jake" I'm sorry tonowarin but it seems like there noting else we can do tonight but act tomorrow, dawn we can see what the matter but we all need rest right now ... maybe when we wake up angi will be okay like neteyam and payakan"

ronal " we will come see you tomorrow my daughter" soon everyone left mo'at had her mat given to her by Jake. She didn't look the man in the eyes or speak to him as he left that night, mo'at was hoping this situation will turn out well but she didn't wish for this to end tragic.

[itsvaleriesucka]

the day of your luck - prelude

pairing: criminal!joel miller x fem!reader

prelude summary: being locked up behind bars isn’t easy. luckily for you, you have been given a chance to start new. 

prelude warning: brief language 

word count: 1.4k

a/n: no worries! joel will make his appearance in ch.1. i'm just warming things up.

chapter one ⋆ series masterlist

⋆ ⋆ ⋆

“I hope you like it sweetie.” 

A warm smile paints across your mother’s face as she hands you a small box with retro floral pattern wrapping that’s adorned all around. Your curiosity kicks in with anticipation of knowing what can possibly lie inside the small box. 

You carefully rip the wrapping apart which reveals a plainly boring yet dull box on the outside. You tilt your head, eyes glancing up at your mother. She softly chuckled. 

“Go on, open it.” Her chin rests upon her hands that folded just underneath. She contained her own excitement by biting her bottom lip that’s painted with a coral peach tone. It was her usual lipstick color. 

Listening to your own mother’s words, you cautiously removed the lid. Your eyes widen at the sudden item revealed. You were too ecstatically happy that you didn’t even notice the lid slipping from your hands and onto the ground. You couldn’t help to draw yourself in to give your mother the biggest hug possible. 

“I love it! Thank you mom!” Your cheek rested against her shoulder with closed eyes. Your hands wrapped tight around her neck, still holding the box. Your mother laughed and embraced your hug in return. 

“I’ll show you how to use it.” Your mother mentioned softly. 

⋆ ⋆ ⋆

“Do you know why you’re here?” 

The question from your correctional social worker snaps you back into reality from your flashback. She stared down at your case files that were neatly organized inside a manila folder. She pushes her reading glasses towards the bridge of her nose, concentrating on your information and statements that are provided. 

Deep down inside, you knew exactly why you were here. You didn’t want to admit it, no. You rather let your new social worker figure it all by herself like puzzle pieces. After all, it is her job. 

“Because orange looks great on me.” An impudent tone slips past your lips that filled the walls surrounding the office. A tone that ought to earn yourself a rough slap across your face. 

The brief silence between you two remained. You often try to tell yourself you wanted to work on your attitude, but in all reality, you fail miserably to do so. Guess you’re stuck with it for the rest of your life.

Staring out into the window, your eyes danced and followed each movement of your fellow inmates exercising and socializing out in the courtyard. Holy hell, how are your inmates not passed out on the ground in this notorious Miami heat?

Those poor German Shepherds outside, sitting besides their companionships with tongues sticking out to remain cool under the heat. They deserved ice in their water bowls after their guard duty shift. 

Every day is an opportunity to step outside and get some fresh air and good ol’ vitamin D. On the hottest days of getting enough sunlight striking your skin, you like to stand in the shade against the wall and talk away with other inmates you’ve known during these past months. You would’ve been outside if it weren't for you getting pulled inside.   

Your hands fold neatly in which they are pressed against your lower abdomen. It’s perhaps the only position that is absolutely comfortable due to the lovely set of silver handcuffs adorned tightly against your wrists.

Robberies were mainly your strong forte. Why did you accomplish this path? For obvious reasons, it was easy money. A pretty dame like yourself can get away with almost anything your heart desires. Nobody would ever suspect a thing from someone who deemed innocence.

Breaking into the fanciest of homes to see what the rich have in store for you was always an exhilarating escapade. You learned the rich tend to carry priceless jewels stored in safes you knew how to crack the code to. You just take them and pawn each item at different jewelry shops. Nothing but Benjamin Franklin’s was all you’ve ever seen and boy, did he make you smile cheek to cheek. 

“Orange looks great on everyone.”

You rolled your eyes at her words, providing a narrow squint as you turned your head to take a look at her. You’re not going to lie to yourself, she’s perhaps the third correctional social worker you’ve gone through. The last two have given up because you’ve never given in to their bullshit responses. You’re done believing. 

“Sure.” The only word you’re able to mutter as a response. You know you’re going to be locked up here for lord knows how long due to every crime. There can be a possibility of parole because technically, you never murdered anybody. Just punches and bruises if a bitch got in your way. 

“I’m here because I am giving you a chance.” 

Whoa. 

This is new.

The silver chains on your handcuffs were the only sound to linger across the room with just the flick of your wrists. The expression fixated upon your face loosens its tension. You can feel your body coming into a relaxed stance. You also want to remind yourself that the amount of expression caused on your face can cause crease marks and wrinkles in the future.

From the corner of your eye, you watched as your social worker stood up from her seat and slowly made her way towards you. You turned around to give her your full attention. Where exactly was she going with this? You thought.

“A chance?” 

Curiosity pools inside of you, a slight tilt of your head was the only gesture she was going to receive since you absolutely couldn’t deter what just came out of her mouth. Was she messing with you? Is she going to tell you this and then leave? Oh boy. Here comes your trust issues radiating across your mind. Your anxious thoughts sort of pounds against your skull. 

Relax.

You felt her hand rest upon your shoulder, gently forcing you to turn and face back towards the window. You can hear herself gently breathe into contentment.

“I see potential in you. You’re not like the others I’ve met.” She tilts her head to look at you, “You’re young, smart, and have so much to live for. A lot can happen in a year, you know.”

She’s right. 

A lot can happen within the span of one fucking solid year it’s insane. Spending your time enclosed behind bars, three course meals provided daily, exercise, limitless showers, it’s a lot. It’s not the grandest paradise but at least it’s better than nothing. 

To your surprise, your social worker gently grabbed your wrists. A small key held in her other hand. You feel the bones and muscles from your wrists alleviate some tension from the metal hooks she removed from you. You pressed pressure with your fingertips to massage the stiffness away. 

“Consider this the day of your luck.”

There was another paradise pictured deep inside your mind. Your eyes stare out into the open behind those wired fences and out into the vast horizon. From a distance you’re able to see structured buildings, nothing but the heart and soul of Miami; downtown. You know just right beyond that, awaits South Beach.

Oh. South Beach.

A place where you forget time exists. A place for long drives along Ocean Drive. A place for fun underneath the sun wherever you go. But once the sun is down and those neon fluorescent lights illuminate the night to play, there’s nothing but trouble seeping along those infamous streets. Drug dealers lurking at every corner you’d meet, offering their best stuff yet. Prostitutes hitching a ride for a good time, the younger crowds dancing the night away at popular disco bars. Anything that you can think about exists in that eminent neighborhood. 

You were too drowned into your thoughts to even notice your social worker calling out as she pulled a chair right in front of her desk for you to come and sit down. 

“We’ve got some work to do.”

Blinking a couple of times, your tunnel vision disappeared. She’s right. There is work to do and in order for you to get out of this place is to get on her good side and follow the rules. You inhaled deeply to then exhale the tension that rushed against your body. Almost pulling a sigh.

A gentle whisper, a huge reminder, breaks apart from your lips. Words you absolutely want to commit to this time. You considered it a promise.

“Don’t screw this up…”

[harringtonshoe]

steve harrington x f!reader. 1k words. was in a very much angsty mood this evening so i decided to write a breakup fic loosely inspired by taylor swifts “you’re losing me”

“You’re really leaving,” Steve said, and despite his leveled stare he had faced you with, and the way his jaw was clenched, his voice had a tremor to it, as if the realization was just beginning to sink in. It was the only sign of caring he’d given you since the previous night.

You had packed one bag—just one—full of only necessities, toiletries, clothes, and anything else you deemed important. You were determined to leave everything behind, to forget everything that had happened. Everything but the one thing you truly wanted to stick by your side.

“You’re not coming with me,” you stated, the realization hitting you just has hard when you noticed the lack of things Steve had in his grasp. He was dressed in his usual jeans, and a collared shirt that you probably would’ve teased him about if it weren’t for the ache in your heart, but there was nothing on him, no bag, absolutely nothing. And you knew, you knew he wasn’t coming.

If the circumstances were different, you would’ve taken a step closer to him, you would’ve had to have stepped over the large gap in the ground—a gap that spread all over the town of Hawkins, a gap that, oddly enough, had kind of been the start to all of this.

It had started when you were sixteen, lounging in Steve’s backyard at one of his little get togethers, one that his new girl Nancy Wheeler had been invited to. You hadn’t a clue about what the friendship you formed with the girl would lead you to. The monster hunting in the Byers’ house, flickering lights, the powers that a little girl possessed.

You’d thought it would stop there, but it only got deeper, darker, as you grew older. Steve had been by your side the entirety of the way, helping you up when you’d fallen in the tunnels, being the first to cup and kiss your cheek when you, he, and Robin had been tortured in an underground chamber. But then Hopper died, then Eddie, a series of students from your high school, and Max was put into a coma. And you no longer felt safe in the town you grew up in.

And you weren’t the only one—understandably so. Though most folks didn’t know the real reason as to why the town was split into quarters, why it was snowing in Indiana of all places in the middle of spring, it was enough to make them leave. You wanted out, too.

You were old enough to move out on your own—old enough to have a stable job to afford living on your own, but that didn’t mean you wanted to do it.

But seeing Steve and all of your other friends in so many near death experiences had been too much. You’d begged Steve the night prior, begged him to come with you, pleaded that this time there was a much higher possibility that one of you wouldn’t make it back. And you were terrified, you’d already lost so many. You couldn’t lose him, too.

But Steve didn't see it that way. He’d argued back with you with just as much heat and desperation, and pleaded for you to stay, to fight—because that was who you were—not a runner, a coward.

You were fine with being a coward if it kept you and Steve safe. But you were the only one who thought like that.

The argument had ended with you slamming Steve’s front door, wet patches stained down your face because for once, neither of you were coming to any sort of conclusion. There was no middle to be met, no happy-medium to be found. Steve was persistent on staying, but you were just as stubborn on leaving. You’d told him to pack a bag, clutched at his hands, his shirt, asked him to leave with you the following morning, but Steve had told you firm and serious. A hard ‘no’ that you knew was his final answer.

But you had to try one more time. If not to convince him, then to say goodbye. Kiss him one last time—hold his face in your hands as you struggled to ever let him go.

It was why you stood so far away from him now, lingering in Steve’s driveway, your car still on, engine tutting from behind you. Steve shook his head, and you blinked rapidly. This was it, you realized. A brick hit your stomach. He wasn’t coming.

You’d known. You knew how Steve rarely changed his mind, it was one of the things you loved most about him. When he knew, he knew, and he wouldn’t stray from it. No matter how hard you pleaded. But you’d received a real confirmation now, and it was gutting you. Because your fear of losing Steve was coming true, it just hadn’t been in the way you thought it’d happen.

“Why would I leave?” He asked. “This place is our home. You’re just going to throw that away? Let Vecna chase you out of the only place you’ve ever known?”

“There’s nothing left for me here, Steve,” you said, just as firm, watching his expression change. “I’ve seen you almost die too many times, and I can’t take it anymore. Who cares if this is all we’ve ever known? We can make more memories somewhere else. Somewhere safer, Steve. Please.”

“It’s not gonna happen,” he crossed his arms, and you felt yourself deflate.

Of course you wanted to stay. You wanted to be with your friends, your boyfriend, watch Dustin grow up, witness Lucas become a world famous basketball star. But it was all too much, and it wasn’t enough to convince you. And Steve didn’t seem to be trying to anymore, either.

And if he’d asked just one last time, you might’ve said yes. If he asked one more time, you might’ve jumped over the gap in the concrete that was separating you, and kissed him. You would’ve dropped your bag, turned off your car, and let him lead you back inside. If he just asked one more time.

Do something, you begged internally. Say something, Steve. Anything. Tell me you love me. Don’t just stand here. Risk something, piss me off, argue with me again, do anything. I’ve got nothing. You’re losing me, and you’re not doing anything to stop it. Tell me you don’t want me to go.

When none of that came, you nodded once, then adjusted the bag on your shoulder.

It was settled, then. You didn’t look back when you climbed into your car—you didn’t see Steve’s glossy eyes, an expression that matched yours—you didn’t see how his hand shook as he reached to fix his hair in defeat—you didn’t see how he stood in his driveway until he couldn’t watch your retreating car turn down the next road, somewhere his eyes couldn’t follow.

You didn't see any of it, because you knew that if you glanced into your rearview mirror and caught any sort of sign of regret, that you would’ve turned around.

But you didn’t look back.

[hayjeon]

🥹

hi everyone, i know it’s been quite a while.

i don’t even remember how to use the app/site well enough to find when the last time i posted a fic was (like, where did the time stamps go?!)

i bet this won’t come as much of a surprise to anyone who’s been following me for a while because i clearly went MIA for a few years. just wanted to pop back in and clarify a few things and let yall know i am alive and well 🫶🏻

WHERE TF R U

i have, unfortunately, moved on from my ff writing era of my life. i’ve seen all your messages of support and reactions to my writing and constantly see the reposts and recs made in my email inbox, and i cherish each and every one of them and do miss yall very often. i am currently now working and traveling full time, and am just past the era in which i used to absolutely love bts/kpop. i’m actually now an avid ao3 dramione reader 😂 and have devoted a lot of my time to getting physically/emotionally healthier, furthering my career, and just pouring love into myself and everyone around me 🤌🏻

DO YOU EVEN LIKE BTS ANYMORE

i still do love/listen to bts, but i’ve also been feeling like i’ve outgrown them a bit and no longer actively read bts fics myself 🥹 but to sometimes come back to my own blog and my homepage to see that other writers are still here and dedicated makes me feel so giddy and happy for them. watching bts grow from their boy in luv era when i first became a fan to the degree they’re at now and even when i stopped actively writing (probably when they started breaking into the US/english lyrics, or covid era) was such a big life landmark for me, and i will always cherish them in my heart for that. i will also always cherish this blog, that kept me actively writing, throughout uni, and actively creating content anonymously, for helping me through some hard times emotionally, physically, and mentally.

WHATS GONNA HAPPEN WITH UR FICS

i don’t think i’ll be updating any of my wips: any writer out there who feels inclined to continue the stories, i give you full permission (pls don’t plagiarize!) and would hope that you drop a quick msg in my inbox when you post so i can read them (better than tags!) 🥰 would also be happy to share where i intended a lot of my fics to go plot-wise. i also deem it would be a disservice to a lot of you for me to release unfinished drafts, but im happy to share that as well to anyone who wants to pick it up, or just are curious where the plots went (lmk if ur into that?)

WHAT ABOUT THIS BLOG

i will be keeping this blog up and active. anyone who wants to pop in and re-read anything: thank you for your continued support. feel free to translate, repost, use as inspiration, continue the stories yourselves, and do whatever you want. i’m sending these fics as a love letter to everyone who’s supported me thus far, and anyone new to the fandom (welcome! i know army has increased so much since i left) into the universe and all i can do is release them with a sense of peace and love, although it’s a bit bittersweet.

CAN WE STILL ASK QUESTIONS

of course 😍 i love seeing them in my inbox so continue to ask away!!!

to conclude:

thank you to everyone here.

thank you to bts and hope for a quick and safe army service to all of them.

and happy new year 🫶🏻

[uncreative-cryptid]

❝ feeling unknown and you're all alone , flesh and bone , by the telephone . lift up the receiver , i'll make you a believer . ❞

— Personal Jesus ; Depeche Mode

Thoughts I I find it just a teeny tiny bit .. strange that the Sentinel seems to keep themself so inaccessible to it's people that it opens the door for questions and doubt. What an odd thing for a deity to do. My people will never know such doubt.

Hobby I have quite the knack for painting, actually. I find the mere action soothing, and enjoyable. It is a brief reprieve from the usual tasks I have. Have a seat, I think you'd make a wonderful muse for my next piece.

Trouble [ Raziel hums, arms crossing over his chest as his eyes close ] ... Hm? Oh, don't mind me, my head has a mild ache and the light sometimes makes it worse. Fret not, this too shall pass.

Favorite Food Haha, contrary to popular belief among the fellows, I prefer savory foods. Steak Margherita has been my favorite since I've had it, and we on the archipelago are lucky enough to have plenty of live stock and farmland to sustain ourselves.

Disliked Food I'm sure you've heard the rumors that I have a wicked sweet tooth .. which is rather funny, as I've no idea where they've gotten this idea. I don't very much enjoy strong sweets, especially those like ice cream. I'm more of a .. 'savory food and hard liquor' sort, you know?

Ideals I find the world to be fascinating .. Did you know that deer often partake in carnivorous meals when the opportunity is available? An interesting notion, that something so seemingly harmless, something you think would never harm another animal, would happily snap up a rabbit if it deemed fit? One should only hope that they are not the rabbit.

Chat I The archipelago is not actually all that difficult to traverse, though many who end up here are usually wayward ships and .. well, often I hear from those who crash here were turned away from Rinascita, either due to their strict rules on goods, or their tighter-than-a-snare borders, or even simply because The Order decided to cast them out from society for merely voicing a rightful concern. A pity, truly, but I am ever so thankful that the tides and the storms brought them here alive .. usually.

Chat II The Gathering Hall, known as The Hall of Ancients, is where many of the fellows go to gather and feast at the end of the day. It is considered hallow ground. Every evening, people bring dishes and meals and drink to share. The Hall of Ancients is located on the largest landmass, allowing plenty of room for them to gather. I don't always partake of the meals, but I always make it a point to be present, as I enjoy watching them gather and smile. Their eyes hold such a wonderful sense of peace, I hope to preserve it.

Birthday Wishes Happy Birthday, my dearest Owlet. Close your eyes, I have a surprise for you.

Self-Introduction Greetings, I am Raziel Castelle. Worry not, you are safe here. Simply follow the rules and I'm sure we can maintain a cordial relationship.

Greeting Anyone unwilling to face even the darkest parts of their own soul seek only to hide themself. Show me who you truly are.

Join Team I I see it all clearly.

Join Team II You need my help? My, you must be truly desperate to accomplish this correctly.

Join Team III How fascinating ... Alright, I will help.

Idle I [ Raziel's hands extend out and a small cluster of eye shaped apparitions open over his palms, the irises darting around frantically before they suddenly shut closed and disappear ]

Idle II [ A soft sigh leaves Raziel as the smaller pair of wings upon his neck curl forward to cover his mouth as his eyes close ] ... This, too, shall pass.

Idle III [ Raziel stretches all six wings open, revealing the unsettling eye pattern upon his wings .. the screen briefly glitches and Raziel softly giggles ]

Intimacy Lv. 1 Lines

Thoughts II Hm .. ? Oh, you've noticed a strange .. presence around the archipelago? Haha, I would not fret about that. That is probably just The Protector .. she's been here a long time, and she and I share a very long history, so you need not worry of her.

Intimacy Lv. 2 Lines

Thoughts III I have old records that I occasionally enjoy listening to. The sounds of violins and metal strings, plucked and echoed through a hollow wood, accompanied by the sounds of piano .. Hmm .. Ah, apologies, I was just reminiscing on more simple times.

Intimacy Lv. 3 Lines

Thoughts IV A time ago, I had taken to an interesting science. Dissection of living creatures, still breathing and moving .. I believe many would call these a 'vivisection', but there's an interesting art to it. Careful draws of a blade across flesh, delicately opening the body like one would a new book. It's an art in of itself. I've learned quite a bit.

Intimacy Lv. 4 Lines

Thoughts V Bright light can cause headaches .. as you can imagine, being able to 'see everything' at any time can certainly be both a boon and a bane. My home is tucked away within the crevice of the cliffs, and usually the lights are rather low .. it is a special kind of peace to be in such a wonderful place.

Intimacy Lv. 5 Lines

About Demona Oh... so you've discovered her name, hm? Haha, yes, Demona is quite the unique tacet discord, wouldn't you agree? I find her form simply .. divine, if you would. Long ago, horrible men kept her trapped here. Through her and I's divine revelation, we tore through them all, and created a wonderful home here. She ensures the peace is kept, and I guide the souls along. An arrangement so truly divine, not even the Sentinel and his .. resonator .. could dream of having. My people know I am here, know that so long as they follow the rules, Demona and I will keep them safe. Can the Sentinel really say any of that, truly and honestly, when their people don't even know if they're real? Hm .. food for thought, I suppose.

[goroaix]

〘 He loved with his whole heart. He admired with a passion. He worked to absolve himself of all selfish desires... 〙

Xiaojun x gn reader. Obsession. Yandere-ish feelings.

Dejun had always liked to believe that he was a moral person.

From a young age he had been taught right from wrong, the virtues of humility, acceptance and respect being things that his Mama had ingrained into him. Being someone who acted on impulse and without consideration for others had been vilified, deemed an immoral stance on life that would drag him down.

So it was this stance that he took on his actions. Dejun was not tailing them unnecessarily - he was determined to make sure that they were safe after being followed by someone off of a bus. He wasn't sending them gifts to nurse affection or fear - they were really there to brighten up an otherwise dull day.

He didn't hold himself in a high regard, nor did he want for things he knew were not suitable for him.

But every person had their unshakeable desires, didn't they?

There was no helping how loudly his heart thundered when they walked by, a beautiful smile dancing on their soft looking lips. Never before would he have thought himself as the kind to be utterly smitten with the bare minimum but Dejun had learnt that he was a romantic at heart. Little more in the world was more satisfying than laying in his bed and concocting images of a loving relationship with the person of his desires.

He found nothing wrong with his actions. Everyone wrote their name with their beloved's and surrounded it with hearts. He had pages and pages full of this, unable to overcome the urge devote his time to them.

He was just so lucky that he worked close to them, could see their pretty face whenever he looked out the window and into the ambient café. There wasn't a day that he wouldn't spend his lunch there, fingers circling the grain of the table while his chamomile tea ran cold.

Dejun noted here that their favourite colour seemed to be red. They wore jewellery that had brilliant crimson jewels, wore accented pieces of clothing that had scarlet parts. So he did too, making sure to leave a bitten and red look to his lips and delighting whenever he felt pretty eyes meander towards them.

This wasn't selfishness, it was mere admiration, Dejun told himself.

What would have been selfish was to imagine that they were the ones kissing him and making his lips take on a pink tint; if he wished that their attention would only be on serving him rather than the worthless dross that took them away from him. Dejun was raised better than this.

It was selfless of him to invite them for a chat, wanting to know the reason for the slight frown that had been lingering on their visage since he'd arrived.

"Is everything alright?" He asked, praying his voice didn't break. "You don't seem as happy as usual."

"Oh." They sighed, shoulders slumping and he wanted nothing more to hold their hand, to tell them it was okay. "It's just typical work stress. I'm sorry for making you worry."

Making me worry, he thought in bewilderment. How can someone be so lovely?

"You don't need to apologise." His knuckles were white under the table. "I know we are strangers but sometimes it's helpful to say things to someone who can offer a fresh perspective."

They nodded, perfect lips pulled into a slight pout. "You're right."

And he waited patiently, willing himself to swallow down the compliments that he had always wanted to tell. Their skin always looked softer than a flower's petal.

"I don't mean to complain but sometimes I feel overwhelmed. I enjoy working here and talking with regulars but the labour isn't worth the price."

Somehow, this didn't feel like everything. "Are they not paying you enough?"

"..." The glance at their lap said enough.

"Are there no promotions or raises available?"

"I'm never eligible."

He prided himself on his lack of impulsivity, the control he had over his own actions and emotions. "I think you're an exceptional worker."

"Thank you..."

"Dejun."

"Thank you, Dejun."

He wanted to say that it wasn't selfish that he wanted them to repeat his name until their voice went hoarse, to record it and listen to it on repeat for hours on end until that was the only thing his mind could focus on. But, Dejun forced these thoughts away and replaced them with something more helpful.

Like how he would make sure that this promotion would happen for them. Simply sitting and listening would provide temporary relief but Dejun knew that things like happiness should be more permanent, pervasive.

He would get them this promotion (if only to see the smile on their face).

[elisysd]

24.But there’s a shining in the shadows

Masterlist - Previously - Next

Chapter soundtrack: Home - Gabrielle Aplin

And just like that it was over. Because of a stupid deal. All those years of hard work and sacrifice, reduced to ashes because of a deal. And the sad thing was that she knew it could happen but still, she chose to get on with it. Not only had she been fired, but it was with immediate effect, meaning that she was staying with the team until the end of the Monza Grand Prix. And to make everything worse than it already was, Wilhelm had looked at her with a sadistic smile when telling her that she had to pay back fifty percent of what she had earned working with them. Of course, the reason invoked was her lack of reliability and that, that was no good. No other team would like to give her a chance if she was deemed unreliable. She knew that there was a high chance that her dad would hire her but still, they would all think that she was there because of her dad and not because of her work. Now more than ever.

And even if she didn’t like working for Skoda, she was grateful for her friendship with Niels and Noah who made the experience a little more fun and bearable. She didn’t follow much of the free practices and rushed out of the garage as soon as the first one was over. She felt as if everybody was staring at her, as if they knew that she had been fired and she felt the panic gripping her throat and her vision getting blurry. She didn’t want to pass out, today was not the day. She was brutally stopped in her tracks by two hands on her shoulders, firmly holding her in place.

“Julia? You're pale, slow down for a minute.”

She recognised Kyle’s voice and suddenly she felt better, safe. He always had a reassuring vibe and she always felt good when he was near. He was a great guy.

“Do you want me to go fetch, Ethan?”

“No! I… I want my dad or my mom or anyone from my family.”

“Okay… come with me, I take you to the hospitality. I’m not letting you wander alone.”

He didn’t ask questions, he just escorted her to the main hospitality, where everyone from every team could go. They entered and Kyle scanned the room to find Lyanna or anyone that Julia could go to. She was there with Louis and Kat, a cup of tea in their hands as Louis had his headphones on and was writing in a notebook. As soon as Lyanna saw the distressed in her daughter’s eyes, she rushed to her. Kyle asked if she would be okay and when she nodded, he left, not without giving her one last worried look.

“Julia, darling, what happened?” Lyanna moved to the side as Kat was grabbing a chair so Julia could sit.

“They… I’ve been fired.”

Saying the words made it all too real and that was enough for her to break. Lyanna threw her arms around her, pulling her against her as Louis was removing his headphone and looked at his sister.

“Are you sad?” he asked, naively.

“No, I’m overjoyed Louis!” she snapped, making her brother frown. Understanding that she might be taking it too far, she added quickly. “I’m sorry. I had a really bad day.”

“You lost your job? Because of Ethan? Do you want me to hit him?”

“No… not because of him… not really.”

“That means he is responsible because then, you would have said a straight no.” he commented.

“It’s complicated, Louis.”

“No. You are sad because you lost your job and it’s his fault. You loved your job. It is your dream. And because of him you have to give up on it. It’s not fair. He doesn’t make you happy. I hate him.”

“Louis… you don’t hate Ethan.” intervened Lyanna.

“Yes, I do! He doesn’t love my sister! He makes her cry! Daddy doesn’t make you cry, mom. Not like that.”

“Daddy made me cry a lot, darling. But it didn’t mean that he didn’t love me. Love is not black and white, it’s a myriad of colors that sometimes match and sometimes don’t. They blend all together to create new ones. It’s a lot of things.”

Julia wasn’t strong enough today to endure another fight, let alone with her brother. She took a gulp of the glass of water Kat brought and stood up.

“Julia… are you sure you’ll be fine. You can wait for dad here.”

“I have to leave with Ethan. We came together, we have to leave together. That’s what we agreed on and what Ashley thinks it’s best.”

“Fuck Ashley. I’ve never liked her. You are clearly not fine, Julia. Ethan can understand, I’ll text him right now to let him know.” said Kat.

Julia didn’t have the strength to argue. She let Kat take care of her son and tried to forget about the day and how she would have to keep a straight face for the whole week-end. Monza was starting to become her personnel hell, something she would have never thought to say. It didn’t take long for Ethan to arrive after his mom’s texts, looking around in search of her. When he finally found her, he rushed to her side only to be stopped halfway by Louis.

“Don’t go near her.” he said, trying to have a threatening voice.

“Louis, buddy. I’m here for your sister, okay. I’m going to take her back to the hotel and I’ll take care of her.”

“No! Because you made her sad, she cried because of you. I have to be a good brother and I have to protect her. If… If you… If you come closer I will hit your nose.”

He positioned his fists in front of him, slightly shaking. Ethan tried to catch Julia’s gaze but she was avoiding him, focusing on her brother.

“Louis, put your left foot in front of your right one. If I punch you, you will lose your balance.”

“Does that mean you are going to fight me?”

“No. I’m not going to fight you, I don’t want to hurt you.” he explained calmly.

“Well, too bad for you because I will do it.”

And Ethan would have let him punch him because he knew he deserved it. So he braced himself for the impact that never came as Julia's voice stopped in right as Louis was preparing his punch.

“Louis, stop. It’s fine. You don't need to protect me. I can do that on my own.”

“I don’t want you to go with him!”

He tried to force her to stay by pulling her arms way stronger than necessary making Julia wince in pain. He was refusing to let her go and was almost crying, resulting in Julia crying even more as well. Ethan stepped in, trying to get Louis to release his grip on his sister. But even if he looked like a leaf that could fall from a tree at the first windblow, he was actually quite strong. As Ethan was close, Louis started to kick him anywhere he could until Lyanna came to him to whisper a few words in his ear that had the effect of stopping him completely. Julia saw her brother shut out and felt guilty. She had never wanted him to hate Ethan, or to feel like he had to protect her. It was her job, her duty as a sister.

She saw her mom put Louis’ headphones back on his ears and take him in her arms as he held onto her. She would have stayed like that, looking at her mom and brother; not knowing what to do or say if Ethan had not linked his fingers to hers, pulling her to him. They left the hospitality and made their way to the exit, in silence, head hanging low to not be recognized. Once in the comfort of the car, Ethan turned to Julia.

“What happened? Kyle came to me saying he found you on the verge of passing out…”

“I lost my job, Ethan.” she blurted out.

He didn’t know what to say. He knew how her work was Julia’s everything, how proud she was of it, how it was a huge part of her. He knew that it would be affecting her. A lot.

“I’m sorry…”

“Not as much as me. The thing is… Why am I sad? I started hating working there, I was used and even by getting rid of me they are still trying to find ways to make my life even more hellish that it is. I have to pay them part of what they gave me. Because I’m a bad investment. A bad investment that gave them upgrade ideas that they are going to use… I feel stupid.”

“You are not stupid. And… I’m sure you’ll find a new job in a new team super fast. Maybe your dad…”

“I know! I know that my dad can help me but… you don’t understand. I wanted to do it on my own. I wanted to prove to everyone that I could do it. I wanted to prove myself that I could do it. But even so, I’m incapable of…”

“Don’t say that… I’m sure that you’ll find a new position in no time.”

She snarled and looked away before taking her bag and rummaging through it until she found tissues. She rubbed her eyes in a desperate attempt to erase the trace of mascara that were on her cheeks.

“I don’t want to look like a panda.” she was quick to add. “Wouldn’t look good in pictures, right?”

Ethan could hear her bitter tone and couldn’t help but feel guilty. He gulped.

“Julia..”

“No. You made it perfectly clear that you don’t want anything else other than business with me. I got it. How naive I was to think that maybe what happened in this corridor yesterday meant something. So if you want me to stay professional, I’ll do it. Take me back to my room.”

The ride back was made in complete silence, only briefly interrupted from time to time by her sneezes. Whenever Ethan was trying to look in her directions, furtively, her head was turned to towards the window. He wanted to tell her that the incident in the corridor was not a mistake, that maybe it shouldn’t have happened, but it felt right. Too right, too good, too perfect. The way her body fitted against his, the way it answered to his touch, he had never known something like that before. And it was terrifying. They soon arrived at the hotel where fans were waiting for them, screaming Ethan’s name.

“Are you going to manage faking being happy or do you want us to enter from the back?”

“My mom was a great actress, I can do it. Time to pretend…” she sighed before leaving the car, a huge smile on her face.

Ethan followed her, close, his hand on the small of her back as the other one was holding her hand in his. He waved to the crowd, thanking them. Right before they were about to go inside, a mom called out his name pointing to her little girl that was holding a big drawing in her hand. Ethan looked to Julia, silently asking if he could leave her for a moment and she nodded, heading inside on her own.

She was about to take the elevator to go to her floor when she heard Ethan coming back, almost running. He had a happy smile on his face and shoved a drawing and a book to her face.

“Look what they gifted me! It’s a beautiful drawing of me on the track. Well it’s a four years old drawing but still, you can recognise the color of my car and my number. And they even gave me a book with pictures of me during my career. I did not remember how good looking I was when I was 12. Look at that baby face.”

She ignored him, pressing the button to the third floor as he was still commenting on the pictures. Once the door opened, she stepped out, expecting him to stay where he was, as his room was on the fifth but he came with her.

“I want to stay alone.”

“Julia, I’m not letting you on your own, you had a shitty day and…”

“And who’s fault is that?” she snapped.

“Yeah and I feel responsible. Really, I feel guilty, Julia. About a lot of things.”

“I agreed with helping you, I’m responsible too.”

“Not as much as me.”

“I won’t make a contest of who fucked up the most, Ethan. Not today. I just want to forget about everything, take a shower and go to bed and be ready for tomorrow to smile and look pretty next to you because that’s probably the only thing I’ll do in the next few weeks.”

She was about to open her door and to close it right to his face when he grabbed her wrist making her wince in pain. Louis had a strong grip and she would be lucky if she did not have a bruise the next day. Unfortunately, Ethan noticed and delicately gave it a closer look. It was red and he could see the trace of Louis’ fingers.

“Joolsie…” he said in an apologetic voice.

“Don’t. I don’t need your pity.” she was on the verge of tears.

“I know. But I won’t let you alone. I can’t let you when you look like that. You look awful.”

“Jeez, thanks… you know how to make a girl feel good about herself.”

“I’ve never lied to you, I won’t start today.”

He took a step towards her, slowly, as if she could run away. She didn’t flinch when he draped his arms around her shoulders, nor did she complain when he pulled her against his chest. He could feel his shirt getting soaked because of her tears but he didn’t care. He pulled her harder to him as she let go.

“I’m staying tonight. No negotiations. I’m not letting you alone.”

“Thank you.” she mumbled.

He reluctantly let her leave his embrace to lock herself in the bathroom where she stayed for a very long time. He could hear the shower running as he was making the bed more as a distraction than in a real need to. When she finally came back, he was sitting in the bed, a few pillows put between his side and hers, waiting for her and looking uncomfortable.

“I found the cream in my bag.” he said sheepishly.

“The miracle one?”

“Yeah… Do you… do you want me to apply it on you?”

“I can do that on my own…” she argued, more annoyed than angry.

“Julia… please. Let me take care of you."

She sighed before sitting next to him and offered him her left arm. Softly, he took it and took the time to inspect the fingerprints left by Louis around her wrist. He saw how she clenched her fist, clearly more in pain than what she was pretending. Gently, he started to rub the cream on her, in little circles, paying attention to how her breathing picked up and how she couldn’t stop the goosebumps from appearing on her skin.

“Am I hurting you?”

“Are you talking about right now or in general?” she whispered.

“How many times will I have to say that I’m sorry?”

“Until I feel like you really mean it.” she replied.

“I’m not lying, Julia.”

“You do.” and with a sad voice she added. “But it’s okay, I’m lying too. To you and myself. So it’s a draw.”

He stopped massaging her wrist to look at her. There were so many things he wanted to say, so many things he wanted to do but he didn’t know where to start. There were things he didn’t want to admit, to her but mostly to himself. If only she could read in his eyes all his thoughts, it would be so much more simple.  But she avoided his gaze by slipping under the cover and turned off the light. It wasn’t dark outside, far from it but she felt less vulnerable in the dark. That way, he couldn’t see her face, he couldn’t judge her or feel sorry for her.  She turned her back away from him and she felt him do the same. She was stopping herself from moving and she knew he was doing it as well. She didn’t know how long they stayed like this, unable to sleep and overthinking every move until she broke the silence.

“Ethan? Can you hug me? I really need someone to hold me…”

She didn’t even have to ask for it twice, soon she felt his warmth come closer and an arm around her waist pulling her against him. She felt his lips against her ear and his breathing in her neck and soon she fell asleep.

When she woke up the next morning she was still in his arms, but her face pressed against his chest. She looked up to him already awake and watching her.

“What time is it? Are we late?”

“It’s almost eight in the morning, we don’t have to be there until ten. I didn’t want to move, you were sleeping well. How are you feeling?”

“Soon to be officially unemployed.”

“You still have the weekend with them?”

“Only to collect my stuff and say goodbye to everyone. That’s it, they have already revoked my access and I have to give them my badge back after the race.”

“I promise I’ll give you a better and more beautiful badge.”

“That won’t be hard.”

She stretched and rolled over, out of his arms. As she left the bedroom, Ethan took his phone and scrolled down his contact list to find the name he was searching for. He made sure Julia was under the shower before pressing the call button.

“Ethan? I wasn’t expecting your call. Is there something wrong that couldn’t wait for you to arrive at the paddock? His team principal asked.

“I wondered if you had given some thoughts about Julia’s situation?”

“I did. There might be an opening in the team. Alice, who is working closely with Ludwig, is going on maternity leave soon and she is not sure she would like to get back her position when she’ll be able to. We are thinking of moving her to the factory. That means we are going to need someone to fill her position. I wanted to, initially, promote someone from the factory but I know that living on the road is not for everyone so I thought about Julia…”

“Perfect! Do you think we can have something ready for her? An offer she can study?”

“Ethan… I’m not saying that I’m giving her the job. I’m considering it. She would need to go through the usual interviewing process. It’s no because she is your friend that she will get special treatment.”

“She wouldn’t want that. I just want to know that not all doors are closing for her. I just want her to know that people want to work with her, that she is valuable.”

“When do you think she could start the recruiting process if she is interested?”

“I’ll tell her. For now she needs a little bit of time to move on from what happened. Maybe during the summer break? Would it be fine?”

“I would need someone to start straight after the end of the season, so it should be fine.”

Ethan was about to answer when the door opened revealing Julia, looking way more dressed than usual. He could see the effort she made, applying her makeup and he wondered why. He liked how she wasn’t giving much thought to her appearance. She was always looking pretty, of course, but she never had to put in too much effort. He apologized to Christian and hung up.

“Are you going anywhere fancy?”

“No. I just thought that maybe today and because there will be more people around, I should try to look my best… Is it too much?”

“It’s unusual…” he said.

“What do you mean by unusual? That I look pretty? That I make an effort?" She was upset.

“Of course not! You always look beautiful, it’s just that you don’t need to do that… I like how you dress on the daily.”

She nodded, fidgeting with her bracelet when Ethan remembered something. After what happened in the corridor, he had left the restaurant and wandered in the streets, trying to process what had happened, when he had seen a traveling shop, selling bracelets and items you could add to them. Naturally, it reminded him of Julia’s bracelet and he had stopped. Browsing the content of what the seller had he had found a cute little italian flag and as he knew how much Italy and Monza meant to Julia he had bought it, thinking he would give her later. Then life got in the way and he had not got the chance to give her. But she looked so stressed out and sad, even under a ton of makeup, that he wanted her to have something that could make her feel better. He went to his backpack and retrieved the little small packet where the trinket was.

“I know it won’t erase everything but I have something for you…”

“Ethan…you don’t have too.”

“It reminded me of you. Don’t ask me why.”

He tried to downplay it but felt a little anxious when she opened the package to reveal what was inside. He saw her pause, examining the little trinket before hanging it next to the Monaco flag.

“I don’t even know why it was not already there considering how my parents feel about Italy…” she simply said.

“Yeah. It’s kind of like a link… your parents, us… Italy is special.”

“A perpetual reminder of the day I lost my job and possibly my career… I don’t know how to feel about it. I.. I like it, don't get me wrong, it’s just that today… it’s bittersweet.” she confessed.

“I didn’t want you to feel like that… It was not the goal. I’m so stupid I should have waited to give it to you, I just wanted you to feel happy…”

“Maybe… I just need a good reason to feel happy.” she said, looking at him with hope in her eyes to which Ethan shrugged.

No other words were exchanged after that as they headed to the paddock. It was more crowded than the day before but this time Julia knew what to expect and didn’t freeze when it was time for her to get out of the car. Pictures were once again taken and people said once again how perfect they were for each other when all Julia wanted was to cry.

Going to Skoda was tough, announcing that she was leaving to Niels and Noah broke her heart and theirs as well. They gave her a big hug, promising that it was the end of an adventure but the beginning of a new one and that no matter what would happen they would still be there for her and they would still be her friend. But their goodbyes were quickly interrupted by Whilem who asked Julia if he could see her as he had something to talk to her about.

In the small office, she took a seat and waited. He couldn’t say anything worse than what he had already told her before.

“I wanted to talk to you about the gardening period.”

“Gardening period?” she repeated, surprised.

“You know that I can’t let you go like that, you’ve seen things, worked on them. I can’t let you leave just like that without guarantees.”

“I’ve barely been in the team for three months? How can I be under gardening?” she argued.

“For a year. Just to make sure that you are not going to use what you learned here to help other teams. Of course it’s always negotiable if someone wants to buy you back, but I doubt it. No one will want the girlfriend of a driver in their team, less someone deemed unreliable.”

“A year?”

She was astonished, angry and sad. She knew that it could happen but she never thought that he would go this far and a part of her was sure that it was to piss her off. That he enjoyed it. But the prospect of not doing what she loved the most for a whole year was breaking the small amount of confidence she had left. She could kiss her dream of making her own name in the industry goodbye. It was over for her need to feel legitimate. No one would take her seriously now. God, Monza was truly a nightmare.

Author's note: Contrary to what you all might think, I don't enjoy making Julia suffer... What do you think will happen next? Let me know your theories, I love to read them.

Don't hesitate to leave a comment or an ask, as well as reblogging and leaving a like. It helps a lot for the story to find its audience. I also have a taglist for this story, so if you want to be added so you never miss a chapter, let me know.

Taglist:

@herondalism @aundercover @musingsbyshreya @karmabyfernando @reengard @mycenterfold @smoooothoperator