#max is close second but he needs to take a deep breath rn i feel like

[maxedes]

joining the war on george russell on the side of george russell

[ohfallingdisco]

I HAVENT BEEEN. IN MY BYLER FIC ITIME RECENTYL.

BJUT

BUT.

POST THE SHARPEST LIVES ON TUMBLR DOT COM RN!!!! WHEELER SIBLINGS FEELS??? AND ANGST??? AND MCR TITLE?????

[if you want to and hi and im being polite but i Must know more]

HII yeah no i totally get it lol, but The Sharpest Lives came on shuffle as i was writing what was meant to be a simple oneshot (!!!), and this happened—so, like, the power of mcr or something?…

anyway enjoy my favorite (huge) part lmao

tw for discussions (kind of) about period-typical homophobia

—

Will staggered, breathing suddenly loud. 

The Party turned to look at him, but they all stayed frozen. His eyes were shut, but fluttering rapidly over a single tear running down his face. 

Mike felt cold fear wash over him like a bucket of ice. It was all he could do to blink the spots away. 

Carefully, El stepped to Will’s side—probably the person in the most danger, if what they all thought was happening was true—but as soon as her fingers brushed his arm, Will let out a tiny sob, sinking to the ottoman behind him and curling into El’s shoulder. 

“Go,” he pleaded, voice strained, “you need to…please—” 

“No,” she cut in, hugging him tighter. “No. You need me. We’ll fight him together.” 

Max spoke up from her corner of his living room. “Wait, El—” 

“No,” she fought, cradling Will’s head. 

“It’s not time yet,” Will gasped, starting to lean away. His efforts were made worthless by the seize in his shoulders that made him fall back onto her, more tears leaking out. “He won’t come if there’s nothing to come for. Please, El.” 

“He’s right,” Dustin said quietly, broken. “We can’t fight the Mindflayer and Vecna. Some of us have to go.” 

“I’m not ready for him to die yet, either!” she screamed, face crumbling as she clutched at his shirt. “I can’t lose you, I can’t,” she sobbed, burying her face in his hair and crying. 

Really. 

Full-on crying. 

She cared about Will as much as he did.

So—? He wanted to strangle himself, suddenly, for being the world’s best—Mike hurried forward, his head clearer than it had felt in years. 

He was still who he always was. Why was he always afraid, now? He would rather fistfight the Mindflayer and lose to that bitch than let him take someone else. 

Especially not his friends. 

“El,” he said softly, brushing his fingers over her back. “I get it. I’m sorry. Go.” 

“No, you don’t understand,” she cried, trying to push him away. “None of you do, I need—” 

“El,” Will choked, sounding seconds away from a panic attack, “listen to Mike. I need you gone.” 

Dustin sobbed quietly behind him. 

“Yeah, Mike gets all the credit,” Max mumbled, sounding close to tears herself. “Come on. Give him space.” 

That broke her off, and she stepped back, looking lost as she met their eyes in turn. “Will,” she whispered. 

“I love you,” he replied, dropping his face down and wrapping his arms around his head. “Now get the hell out.” 

Lucas stepped forward to pull her under his arm, tears flowing freely and silently. “We really love you, man,” he said, and drew a deep gulp of air before steering Will’s sister out. “Let’s—give him some space, yeah?” 

Max in her chair and Dustin followed them out. Before Dustin shut the door, he looked back and met Mike’s gaze. “You coming?” he asked, clearly trying not to sound too depressed. 

Mike shook his head emphatically, crossing his arms. “Take care of her, okay?” 

He smiled brokenly back at Mike, eyes flicking to Will’s hunched frame. “Take care of him,” he returned, and looked at Mike with sad eyes one last time before letting the door click shut. 

The resulting silence was suffocating. 

Then a tiny shudder escaped Will’s mouth, his back shivering, and Mike dropped to his knees in between Will’s. “Hey,” he tried, putting his hands on his shoulders. “Hey, what do I do?” 

Will’s head snapped up, eyes open and wild in a frenzy. They slammed shut again as soon as he made eye contact, and Will groaned through pursed lips. 

“Michael,” he huffed, flexing his fingers on his knees. “Why didn’t you leave?” 

“Because that’s a stupid idea, I’m not always stupid, and you’re not dying here,” he argued, trying to keep his voice level. 

“Bullshit.” Every line of Will’s body read anger, but as he threw his head back, all Mike could think was how he couldn’t let him die. “I can’t try very hard anymore. Go with the others.” 

He stared at the plaid on Will’s shirt, maybe just a little too distracted by the position he suddenly found himself in. “I—no. Shit, Will.” 

“Mike, I’m infected again whether you like it or not, and I’m not going to just sit here and let you get killed with me.”

“As if that’s your choice,” he hissed, taking Will’s hands between them. “It’s my house, anyway, why do you think any of this is your choice?” 

“Because I’m the one dying, Mike!” he yelled, raspy. 

“Bullshit,” he repeated, squeezing Will’s hands hard. “Bull—you know it’s bullshit, so why are we even having this talk right now?” 

“I’m pretty sure this counts as a fight,” Will snarked, scoffing. “Three major fights in as many years, Mike, that’s not what best friends do.” 

“What if I don’t care?” he flung back, grabbing onto Will’s biceps. “What if I don’t give a shit, Will, you’re my best friend no matter how many times we have to—” 

Soft, warm lips brushed his forehead, and his mind stuttered, frowning. They didn’t usually act this…parental, with each other, did they? 

Then a thick, cloudy vine crashed through his mom’s window, shattering glass all over her nice rug, and everything went to hell. 

“No, no, no, no, no, no, no,” Will breathed, clutching Mike’s biceps hard. “You were supposed to be gone…” 

He gulped. With a slimy Upside Down vine slithering through his living room, looking for the one thing that thankfully mattered more to Mike than himself, everything seemed more—real. 

“I’m not leaving, Will,” Mike repeated, shaky as he stared at the plant on his floor. It was really a shame that his family would have to find him dead with Will in their living room at some point, but… 

“I wish you would,” Will said one more time. 

“No.” Mike looked back at him. 

A beat. Then, “Promise?” Will whispered, somehow managing to grip his biceps tighter. His voice trembled, and Mike hated it. 

He stopped fighting the ridiculous urge and wrapped his arms tight around Will’s waist. There was nowhere left for Mike’s cheek except pressed up against his chest, but Will didn’t seem to mind, so he didn’t move. He could hear Will’s heart, here. The only downside was he would know exactly when—and how—the Mind Flayer got him. “I love you so much,” he admitted quickly, risking everything. “Like, in…in a love way.” 

He felt a sharp stutter of breath from Will’s chest. His best friend’s arms slipped around his shoulders, holding him close. 

“I mean—we’re going to die here, anyway. Yeah, why not. Mike, I’m. I’m not like the rest of Hawkins. They’ve always been right about me. I’ve been in love with you since I knew what that meant.” 

Oh.

Oh.

Wait. Just…wait. 

Wow. Um. 

…Oh. 

This so happened to be an incredibly successful last few moments before death. His heart felt like it was skipping and swooning, as dumb as it sounded, making him feel lighter than he had in…well, years. He released a shaky breath against Will’s shirt, and Will’s arms tightened around his back. 

Oh my god, he was so far gone for this boy. He was so perfect. His missing part. 

It was almost enough to make him forget the demon literally in the room. 

Wait. No. Scratch that. It was. 

That’s why it was such a shock when it happened. He shivered as an ice-cold tentacle started slithering over his ankles, oozy and heavy. A startled sob slipped out against Will’s chest. 

Shit. He had meant to die quietly, keep Will from watching. It was obvious, from the scrabbling grasp at his shirt and spike in Will’s breathing, that he was watching very closely, now. 

“Will,” he demanded, tapping his fingers against his side, “tell me a story. Will…Will the Wise and his Paladin.” 

“I can’t, Mike,” Will gasped, burying his face in his hair. “No, no, I can’t lose you like this, Mike—” 

“I’m still here, Will! Talk to me. Will the Wise.” 

A broken sob. “Mike—we were all supposed to make it. I thought we were all gonna make it.” 

“I know,” he soothed, and found he didn’t mind. Comforting Will gave him a place to fit. “A little—ah—wooden…wooden cottage like Castle Byers, and, uh…a picture of us framed above our bed.” 

Will sobbed again, trying to pull Mike impossibly closer. “You can’t be my Bob, I can’t do it, I need you—” 

“I trust you,” he cut in, as another tentacle started slithering up his back, turning Mike’s spine ice cold. “I love you so much. So much. Stay with Dustin and Lucas and El and Max, okay?” 

He gasped. “Not without you. I can’t—” 

“You can,” he insisted, but the tentacles felt too icy and heavy and he couldn’t. He ducked his face into Will’s neck, whimpering. “I’m sorry,” he tried, and it didn’t feel like enough. “I’m sorry, I never meant to—” 

And then the Mind Flayer pushed its way over his shoulder, and he had to stifle a scream, pushing back as hard as he could against the tentacles to try and give Will space to escape. It didn’t work. 

Gently, Will’s shaking hands came up to curl into his hair. The tentacle was slung across both their shoulders, now, tying them impossibly close together, but Mike’s heart stuttered more from Will’s touch than the beast he’d wanted to fight. 

Will’s face was quiet, full of meaning and heart and a deep, primordial ache. Hazel eyes shone in the awful light, and Mike just wanted to—well, he wanted to kiss him. 

A lot. 

“Hey, Mike, I’m glad you did,” he admitted, heaving a deep breath. “Alright? I—I would rather die knowing I was better for loving you, than regret never taking that chance.” 

Oh, god. 

“And…and if that means dying here with you, because I guess it does, than at least I’m with you. I’m…” His voice trailed off, breaking into a sob, and his forehead fell down against Mike’s. 

The Mind Flayer had practically already completely entombed them. It had been faster, before, hadn’t it? When Billy died…another William, oh god…

“I love you,” Mike whispered, fingers clenching in the back of Will’s shirt. “So much. I’ll see you later, okay? Later.” 

Will sniffed, breath warm against Mike’s face. “I’ll see you in the Upper Planes,” he promised, just a little bit of his old Cleric intonation peeking through. 

God. If this was how Mike had to go, he was just happy to be with Will. 

He just…

There were…there were sounds outside the window. 

Rocks, voices, someone crying, it was…there was someone besides the Mindflayer outside his house? 

A loud bullet shot past his head, and he yelped, eyes shooting open. Will’s eyelids were still fluttering, the room the same as it was before. It was just…outside sounds. 

They were shooting at them? What the—? 

“Will, hey, stay still,” Mike instructed, glancing towards where the bullet had gone. He thought it might have lodged in the wall. What kind of shitty guns were they using? 

He felt his breath catch. “What?” 

“Will,” Mike said again, “listen.” 

A bang, and a grunt from just inside the window. They were coming in. 

“Boys?” Nancy said, a click as she reloaded—hang on, that was his sister. His sister. 

It was like a dam broke all at once at her voice, letting loose a dangerous flood. A sob broke out of him, churning his stomach. 

“Mike?” Nancy asked urgently, just before another shot rang out. There came a low hiss from the icy arm slithered up his back, and he felt it start to writhe. The slime made him feel like puking. “Mike, I need you to talk. Come on, talk to me…” 

Another harsh reload. A hand was holding the back of his head, joining in the pleas for him to say something. He was dimly aware that his head had tipped back, but he didn’t think he had the energy to do anything about it. Something hurt, too, behind him. He wondered what. 

A shot. A screech from his back, and he was being pulled backward. Hands grabbed his wrists, fighting for him, but the suction was too strong. 

A sticky tentacle slapped over the back of his head, and the world cut to black as he just kept falling. 

••• 

So. The hospital air was gross. 

Nancy might never have been as close to her little brother as her boyfriend to his, or even half as nice, but she wanted him to be able to say at least she was there when he really needed her. 

Of course, he couldn’t know she had been by his bedside all day, and they had no idea when he would wake up (at least he would), but she wanted to be here. Jon’s friend Argyle had taken Will to eat (at least he would), so it was just her and her brother in his bright white hospital room. He had gotten out of surgery yesterday, for the massive patches of welts, cuts, and bruises, all over his back, and been moved straight here to sleep off the surgery on his stomach (at least he could). They suspected he might also have a concussion, but the worst of it had been circumvented by how quickly she had managed to shoot Mike free. Or whatever other bullshit explanation the doctors decided to market. 

Will, with his bruised, popped elbow and fractured shin, had been in here almost as much as she had, but she’d been let in first, so she had a little more time clocked. So far, she had been the only member of Mike’s family in the room. She had given permission for the surgeries, so she had no idea if their mom had even been contacted. Even if they were, Ted would still stay out of town with Holly. 

She was doing everything she could to help Mike out. So was it too selfish of her to wish, at the same time, that she could be out there, too, hunting down the monsters they had to beat to get to Vecna? 

Nothing had even shown up at their house. Just terrifying, tentacled vines, apparently quicker than anything else the Upside Down had produced so far. Steve and Dustin were coasting around town looking for more, Robin was keeping an eye on the high school gym, and Jonathan, Lucas, and Erica were barricading Nancy and Mike’s house—apparently, a sweet spot for paranormal activity. They were at most risk of getting cornered by Vecna. She kept telling herself that didn’t terrify her. Max was running comms, relaying important information between the groups with Cerebro because of its wider reach and clearer sound. Will had confessed he wanted to stay by Mike’s side in case of government overreach, and because of it she had even considered leaving Mike in his care to go help defend the town. But, once Jonathan’s friend Argyle had shown up to take Will away, she had almost made up her mind to stay. 

Mike looked better, yes—but not good. And the tentacle creatures had clearly been targeting him, from what she had seen in the living room. Was he at risk of Vecna, then, for more than just a connection to El? 

She wished she knew someone who would know. It must be nice, she thought, a bitter smile pulling at her lips, to be eighteen and not already have been a bitter, sour adult for years. She had done her best to set a decent example for her siblings. Maybe they, at least, could get it right. 

Nancy leaned back in her chair, a huff escaping her lips. She let herself sigh, tipping her head back. 

Another thing she was avoiding was how this felt like it could also be sitting at her brother’s side after he got hate-crimed for his friendship with Will. It was always something she’d been worried about, all too aware of the way people looked at him when they went out, how Ted had only started to recede into something that made her mother guilty after his son started gushing slightly too much about his friend at the dinner table. It was nowhere on the same level, she knew, but…she thought she might have some inkling of how the surface of it could feel, between Vecna and the terrible week Will went missing where her name was plastered up all over dozens of signs across Hawkins. 

Mike was not into girls. She hadn’t thought, when he was dating El, to bring it up—maybe he’d changed his mind?—but now she saw clearer than ever that her little brother still hung off his best friend’s every word. 

He was such a repressed sap, when he was awake. And he couldn’t keep his own secrets for shit. Her brother would inevitably tell her soon, as he was running off on some other life-or-death mission. Then he would hate her for pointing it out, probably cuss at her until she stopped, and they could laugh it off. She hoped he would do it. 

The Wheelers were not the Byers. They would never be Joyce, Will, or Jonathan, but they would be okay. She wanted him to be able to say she would be there for him, should he need her. 

The door to the room swung open, and a nurse appeared, pushing a tray filled with damp cloths, water, and ointments—nothing too dangerous. He gave Nancy a tired smile, sneakers squeaking as moved to Mike’s side.

His face was strangely glassy. She wondered how many deaths he’d had to deal with since Hawkins cracked like an egg all over. 

“Your friends are in the hallway,” the nurse informed her blankly. “You might trade out for some sleep while you can.” 

—

…aaaaand ending it there because it’s really a BEAST of a fic which i don’t have completely finished yet (and was totally meant to originally be a oneshot 😭) lmao hope it was decent!! <3

[cockasinthebird]

hi i just read your tags on the arm wrestling thing and???? please?? write that???? please i need it i might actually start crying rn but i am hungover so lets blame it on that ily

Hiiii! Before you even sent this ask I was thinking about it hahahahaha, aaaaand I hope this is satisfactory work!

Tagging @thinger-strang because they seemed quite interested as well~

Hope you feel better soon bby, ily2!!! Drink plenty of water!

-

Hand in hand, elbows firm on the dining table, gazes locked unblinkingly so, they’re connected tightly this late afternoon.

It was a usual Saturday at first - the gang was in the middle of their intense DnD session; a hobby they decided to move to the Harrington mansion because here there’s no parents to interrupt and, frankly, better snacks.

A decision paired well with how Billy has been helping Steve out with his tower of homework once a week for the last half a year or so, and Max is elated because it means she doesn’t need to get a dorky bike when she can just hitch a ride with her step-brother.

Billy and Steve were, metaphorically, elbow deep in English literature, homework on Edgar Allan Poe and the “romantic era” of poetry, which to Billy isn’t exactly something he wants to study so closely with the one guy he can’t ever stop thinking about; can’t ever have.

So when the little brats shouts for them, interrupting whatever Steve was asking about, gesturing with those hands, hair smelling so fucking good of expensive shampoo- what is that? Lavender?

The six of them trot into the dining room, Max looking horribly exasperated, arms crossed and rolling her eyes as Will and Dustin fight about something way too loudly.

“Hey!” Billy shouts but they don’t stop. “Hey!” Louder this time and it visibly shakes poor Will. “What is it?” 

“Well, we were on our way to fight this dragon, ordered by lord-” Mike starts explaining but stops promptly as Billy raises his hand up.

“The short version, we’re kinda in the middle of something here.” Billy gestures to the incomprehensible mess of papers and books in front of him and Steve, who looks relieved at the chance of a break.

“So we’re in a tavern” Mike tries again, but-

“This better be quick, Wheeler, or you’ll have to explain to your mom how your bike got bent.”

“Billy,” Max groans with a hard stare, after all, he had agreed to be nice.

Both to her and to Steve.

“We need you guys to arm wrestle!” Mike spits out and looks between the vastly stronger, older guys.

And at that Billy can’t help but grin all crooked with exposed teeth. See that’s something he can get behind; a chance to show off and prove he’s still the King, even if he and Steve have found something akin to friendship after their truce.

“Well why didn’t you just say so,” Billy almost chuckles. He places an arm across the back of Steve’s chair and turns to look at him. “What’d you say, princess?”

Steve looks more than a bit intimidated, eyeing Billy’s arms, chest, grin, and then Dustin and the rest. “What’s at stake?”

“Oh, we’re at this tavern, and Max and Lucas have each bet on these two strong orcs sitting and doing an arm wrestle in the middle of a roaring crowd, and we need you guys to decide who wins! For it to be fair,” Dustin says, shockingly without any interruption from Billy, and smiles oh so wide that Steve even asked.

“Okay, sure,” Steve doesn’t sound very convincing, but he shakes his head and stands up to walk to the other side of the table.

“But it’s not fair!” Max shakes her head. “Billy is clearly going to win, so how do we decide which of the two orcs he is?”

“Thanks for the vote of confidence,” Steve’s voice a slight bit shaky, perhaps because everyone knows he’ll lose, even himself.

Billy just sticks out his tongue at him and rumbles forth a chuckle. Oh he is going to destroy Steve, no doubt about it. He’s been looking at those arms, fought him before even, and while he’s not the worst fighter Billy’s been up against, he’s far from the best.

“How about I say the names and they decide which one they’ll be? That way they don’t know who bet on who, and you guys won’t have a say in it?” Will asks as he settles into the chair next to Steve, ready to judge the show of strength.

“Genius!” Lucas proclaims and sits down on the other side of Steve.

Max simply scoffs and goes to stand next to Billy.

“We have Urzok the Infernal, and Dhakk the Mighty,” Will offers up and looks between Steve and Billy,

“I’ll take Dhakk the Mighty,” Billy drawls out and wags his tongue at Steve, whose Adam’s apple bobs visibly as he swallows hard.

“Guess I’m Ur… Urok?”

“Urzok,” Will says with a far too serious tone, as if it actually matters.

And their hands clasp together atop the sea of notes. Strong, firm, warm, soft. Does Steve use lotion on his hands? Billy teasingly squeezes the other’s hand a bit tighter for a short moment, a little signal of “You’re going down, pretty boy.”

But for some reason that Billy isn’t too keen on exploring, Steve squeezes back, and his heart does a dangerous flip that nearly causes his cocky grin to falter. Does he know what he’s doing to Billy? Is he aware of the stupid effect this causes?

“Are you ready?”

“I’m ready,” Steve says with sudden confidence, as if he fucking knows.

“Yeah, ready.” Billy counts it as a victory that he doesn’t stutter those two simple words.

He’s starting to sweat, actually, and prays that Steve doesn’t notice it - that his hand doesn’t turn clammy and gross. The first time he touches Steve’s hand and he’s going to ruin it by being sweaty and sticky.

“1… 2…”

Somehow it’s the slowest countdown he’s ever listened to.

“3… Go!”

And Billy’s entire arm tenses up immediately. Steve’s pushing against him, grasp tight and desperate, is this all he got? Billy’s not even moving yet, rock steady although he can feel that Steve could probably win with enough determination, the way his arm is starting to go in the wrong direction.

So he pushes back a bit, just enough so that Steve knows, arms going in the right direction this time, further and further in favor of Billy.

The kids are shouting and screaming their names- well, the orc names, but Billy doesn’t really register their words or who’s cheering for who. He’s gazing straight into those eyes where he drowns in honey, staring back beneath a tense brow.

Steve’s smiling somewhat, it’s hard to tell from the way his lips are pulled tight, but Billy has watched Harrington enough to know his expressions.

And as Steve’s arm starts to shake ever so slightly - not visibly so, but felt in their grasp - Billy’s not even halfway through his energy reserve, and honestly he’d hoped for a bit more of a challenge, but…

He eases up, just enough for it to be believable as Steve starts pulling him in the other direction. Even so, Billy is not about to go down easy. Halfway to his loss and he’s still holding strong, Steve’s exhaustion more apparent now yet he smiles lighter, forehead less wrinkled, some gleams in his eyes.

The back of Billy’s hand meets the table softly, and everyone but Max jumps up ecstatically, clapping and shaking Steve by the shoulders as he won.

Steve’s got both his hands in the air now, leaving Billy to feel weirdly lonely, but he won’t dwell on that.

“Yeah!” Steve hollers victoriously, pumping his fists so full of vigor. “And the crowd goes wild!” He cups his mouth like a megaphone and mimics a cheering crowd as best as he can.

Dustin and Lucas jump around him, shouting all sorts of nonsense that isn’t meant to be understood past their excitement, yet Max’s scoff manages to be heard above their celebration, and she stomps back into the living room with El and Mike in tow.

“Change that to Urzok the Champion!” Steve shouts just as elated as the kids and points to Will, who’s almost beaming at the way those three makes a scene.

Unfortunately, Billy hadn’t really given the side effects of victory any thought, and seeing how happy Steve is to have won stirs something in him.

“Harrington! Harrington! Harrington!” Steve, Dustin and Lucas all chant like they’re at a football game, all deep and gruff. “Harrington! Harrington! Harrington!”

There’s a pang of heart and a souring of his gut. Billy knows that he let Steve win. There’s no need to feel threatened or jealous or whatever. Kinda angry, kinda entertained. Kinda sick-ish.

“You really thought you had me there for a moment, huh Billy?” Steve points to where Billy remains seated, smiling but not with full honesty. “Thought you could defeat the King!”

Okay that does it. “Come on pretty boy, one more time, just for fun,” there’s restraint at the edge of his tone, and his smile twitches with something mean. He pats the table and offers up his hand again.

But Steve throws his head back as he laughs in a mocking tone, friendly enough, although far too boastful.

“Nah, I won-” He presses a finger against his chest, then points to Billy. “-And you lost!” 

The way Steve smiles so wide actually hurts in a way, and it is shocking how something so small and meaningless can wound Billy’s pride.

“And you can never-” Steve slams both hands onto the table. “-Ever-” He leans in close enough for Billy to feel him breathe out, “-Take that away from me.”

There’s a far too familiar desire to reach out, to touch skin, to meet the source of those words. Billy’s only seconds away from either punching Steve or kissing him, he can’t really tell, but his entire being is ready to act.

Steve doesn’t linger there though, pulls away and lifts up his arms, flexes his biceps and tips his head down to plant a kiss on each, really showing off just how strong he is, boasting about being the victor.

“Guys come on!” Mike shouts from inside the living room, clearly very impatient.

“Yeah yeah we’re coming!” Dustin replies at the same volume and sets off.

“Thanks,” Will speaks low, or maybe it just sounds like it from the way the others assaulted Billy’s eardrums with their shrieking.

And soon enough they’re all alone again.

Billy slumps against his chair, playing with a pencil that will soon break under the tension of his unresolved feelings.

Steve puts his hands on his hips, chest heaving as he tries to calm down again, looking just as flushed and worn out as he does after basket. He huffs a laugh and shakes his head, then returns to his seat right next to Billy, who’s smiling something so sly.

“You… you let me win, didn’t you?” Steve asks all breathless and runs a hand through his hair. His exhaustion comes more from the wild gloating than the actual wrestling they did.

“All I can say is…” Billy leaves a pause that is a clear indication of a yes as he eyes Steve up and down. “Congrats on the win, Urzok the Champion.”

[xicarcalii]

(Y/N)’s Big Day (Billy Hargrove x Reader) Part One

Pairing: Billy Hargrove x (Female) Reader

Summary: Today is (Y/N) and Nathan’s big day. However, Billy shows up to ruin the fun. He wants to admit his feelings once and for all before his person gets hitched to some rich, snot nose, pretty boy. (Billy’s description not mine). If things don’t go as planned will Billy, Steve, Tommy H. and their irrelevant friend Chris have to sabotage it??? I THINK SOOOOO. 

Note: Carol really isn't a bitch in this fic. I wanted to explore with the characters a bit. How would Tommy and Carol act around their best friends in 5 years? There are a ton of OTP shit in here and scenes from my fav movies and shows all put together for inspiration so i could finish this damn thing before Monday. If there are any error’s, ill just fix those babies later. I’m too tired rn. 

+ + +

February 21st, 1989

A few hours from now, you would either be the happiest person on the face of the earth, or you’ll be in a home for the abnormally gifted (a nut house for crazy people) by the amount of anxiety. It was 7:30 AM. You had arrived to the church 48 minutes ago, filled with excitement and happily anticipating the impending marriage to Nathan Hurley. 

“That is the third time Steve has run by the doorway in the last twenty minutes. What is he doing? He should be in here, standing still and keeping me from freaking out!” You hissed. Meredith let out a chuckle, crossing her left leg over her right as she sat on the arm of one of the couches. 

“Just breathe, (Y/N). You look amazing!” She smiled. 

Just breathe. Jeez, Mer, I never thought of that, you thought. You stood in front of the mirror, smoothing out the few wrinkles that were still in your dress.

Overall you were pleased, to say the least at the dress you had picked out. It was a frigid day in 1989, when you walked into the department store downtown to buy a wedding dress. It was immediately clear that you had a problem. All the gowns on display were designed for summer, made of light material, like organdy and dotted Swiss. You were getting married in a month and you needed something heavy and seasonal—and you needed it now. Finally, a frustrated saleswoman pointed you towards the sale rack, in other words, toward the reject winter wedding dresses that did not sell the year before. You called it sheer luck. You had found exactly what you were looking for. It was an ivory satin and Chantilly lace, with a six-foot train—at an incredible bargain price of only $800. You let out a small sigh, glancing up at your hair that had been put up in loose curls, soon looking over your face, and the decent amount of make-up you had plastered on it.

Exactly 15 seconds ago, Carol took both your hands and congratulated you on planning the perfect wedding. She asked how you were doing and part of you wanted to go berserk and bounce. But, you couldn’t lose your cool. So, what do you tell the young woman you chose as your “maid of honor” and “best friend” as she stood before you, smiling sheepishly, while all your dreams of a peaceful and simple marriage ceremony mutate into something you would wish on anyone else, but you? You only shrugged. You weren’t sure what the hell you were doing anymore.

“Look, (Y/N), It’s okay to be nervous. But nothing can go wrong. All you have to do, is go out there, get married, and I will do the rest, okay?” She gave you a reassuring smile, you giving her one in return as you nodded your head. 

You were so focused on Carol trying to calm your nerves, you barely listened to the door opening. 

“Billy!” a flustered Carol yelled as other bridesmaids in the room gasped. Billy stopped half way through the threshold; eyes automatically locked on your figure. You peered over Carol’s shoulder with growing fear in your eyes, watching as a small genuine smile grew on the man’s face. You still looked the same, even though it had been 5 years since he’d last seen you. He smiled as another old friend, Carol walked over to Billy, “Get out!” She demanded.

Billy cleared his throat, apologizing for staring a little too long. “Well, this isn’t the bathroom.” Carol rolled her eyes; scoffing as she pushed him out of the room. “Get out! Get out!” He quickly threw his hands up in defense, walking backwards to exit. But, not before getting one more glimpse of you, before she slammed the door behind him.

+ + +

Billy had run all over kingdom come when he had finally found Tommy and Chris; who were standing by a table in the reception hall, talking while nursing a glass of champagne. 

“Guys, guys, shut up and listen to me-it’s (Y/N). She doesn’t want to get married.” The two men gave Billy wide eyed looks before responding.

“Damn.”

“What happened?”

Billy walked over to the two men, “Well…” He stammered and then pushed the rest out in a gush. “Her exact words were: “I don’t want to marry Nathan, but my entire family is here and I can’t back out now. Please, Billy as my best friend, help me.” 

Tommy flicked his brows up, “What’d Carol say?” Billy shook his head, “Well, Carol didn’t hear it-(Y/N) told me with her eyes.” 

Both, Tommy and Chris took a minute to think about what their friend had just told them. Concluding that all of this information was bullshit. 

“Okay, so nothing happened then.” Tommy shrugged. Followed by Chris saying, “Cool, so she’s marrying Nate.”

Billy stuffed his hands into the pockets as he scowled over his shoulder, “No, guys, I know (Y/N)-I know her looks, okay? She doesn’t want to do this.”

“Billy, why the hell were you back there!?” Carol lunged forward, gripping the man tightly by the shoulder to spin him around. “I need to know, Hargrove.” She gripped him even more firmly and stared at him hard in the eye.

“(Y/N)’s backing out of the wedding.” Carol’s eyes widened, “What?”

“It’s true. She told me.”

“With her eyes.” Tommy pointed out. Carol snorted before taking her hand off Billy’s shoulder. “Oh, my god. I thought you were talking about something real. Billy! The weddings happening-let her go, pea brain.”

“Look, Carol, I’m telling you this as (Y/N)’s best friend and nothing more.” Carol shook her head, “Billy, your wrong. (Y/N) loves Nathan-I know that because I know her better than you do. Plus, if you were her best friend, you would’ve stayed. God, you are so selfish. Why can’t you just be happy for her?”

“Your wrong!” Billy yelled but then lowered his voice – “Your wrong, I am happy for her. If this was what she wanted, I would leave this wedding alone-but it’s not, so i cant.”

“Hargrove, listen up and listen good. You are not to talk to (Y/N), you are not to look (Y/N), and you are not to have eye conversations with her. Or I will bust you. Hard.” Carol sneered. With one flick of her hair, the girl was gone. 

Billy ran his fingers through his cut curls, letting out a groan. Tommy furrowed a brow, pressing on with the conversation once his girlfriend had left. 

“Well, what are you gonna do?” Billy dropped his hands to his sides; letting out a deflating sigh. Nodding, he pursed his lips together, “I’m gonna tell her… and if that shit doesn’t go over smoothly between the two of us-Max told me Harrington doesn’t like the jackass, so maybe we can stop this whole shit wedding from happening. We all know she’s too good for him. She deserves better.”

“Okay, hold up,” Chris began, gulping down the rest of his champagne,” let’s say you do tell (Y/N) how you feel, and she feels the same way, then what?”

“What do you think? I’m gonna grab my girl, get the hell out of this shit hole and were gonna settle back in California.”

“What about Mindy?” Tommy asked. Billy closed his eyes and took a deep breath, “She’s not (Y/N), Tommy.”

“Alright, man I get it,” Tommy nodded, beginning to chuckle, “but, if by any means, you and Harrington try and sabotage this wedding because all this shit between the two of you doesn’t go as planned-I want in.”

Chris nodded in agreement, “Yeah, fuck it, me too.”

Billy glanced between the two, giving them both a mischievous grin as he walked away to tell you he loved you.

+ + +

You hiked up the massive skirt on your dress and tiptoed to the doorway, glancing out into the hall. Your mom was huddled at the door with Tyler, the best man. Guests and parents were seated in pews. The lilies and orange blossoms filled the building. You looked to the front of the church only to see Nathan. Even though you two had agreed not to see each other before the ceremony, you couldn’t help but stare. He was wringing his hands and his eyes were searching everywhere but in the direction of the aisle you would be walking down. Everything was as you dreamed, well – almost. 

Your eyes kept searching for Billy though. It was a lot harder to spot him now without that damn mullet. Where is he? Maybe Nate is nervous because of Billy? Why is he here in the first place, Max probably told him? Maybe Tommy? These things played out in the back of your mind like a broken record.

You didn’t know, but even though you didn’t see Billy-he saw you. He pushed through the crowd, edging his way toward you. You never noticed him as he fished his way through the jovial gathering. Billy felt as if he were floating as he closed the gap between you and himself. Grabbing you by the wrist, he pulled you aside. 

“Billy,” you breathed. Your shock was quickly replaced with bemusement.

“What the hell are you doing here,” you asked. Billy frowned and grabbed you by the elbow, leading you back into the room, quickly shutting the door.

“No, (Y/N). What the hell are you doing here?” Your mind was reeling as you stared up at him with disbelief. You had avoided all his calls for months-years even, and you had intended to keep it that way. Any attempt that he would try to make and weasel his way back in was easily ignored. It was your wedding. Every excuse you could muster to avoid him was utilized.

“What do you mean?” Your voice was smaller than you had intended. You wanted to yell at him, but perhaps you were too stunned. He had decided to corner you 20 minutes before the ceremony to let you know. You stared at him, trying to work up the anger to smack him, but the look in his eyes quelled your rage. He took your hand into his own, and you inhaled a deep breath. The touch was unwarranted, and its effect unwanted. 

“I love you,” he said simply. Your eyes met his, and his somber expression bore through your soul. “You left me,” you reminded him, tugging your hand back. Sanity returned as the feeling faded from your body, and your resolve hardened. “It’s been 5 years, Billy. Are you crazy? You wait until now to tell me you love me?”

“I’ve been trying to tell you ever since I got to California! You’ve been blowing me off ever since,” he accused, his brow furrowed. “This was the only way I could get your attention for more than ten seconds.” You bit your lower lip, glaring up at him. “Okay, Billy. You want my attention? You have it. I’ll give you twenty seconds to tell me how you’re going to fix this!” You spat, glad to see your temper had finally decided to join the conversation. He glared back at you though. “I’m done trying to talk to you!” he exclaimed, stepping uncomfortably close.

Your eyes widened, and you threw my hands up in protest immediately. It was too late though. He held you close, and you were always helpless against his lips. The excitement tearing through your body almost took over, but you managed to push against his chest in protest. When he didn’t budge, his lips settled in place and defeat consumed you. Your heart was pounding faster than it had in years, and as much as you wanted to deny it, the charge between the two of you was always tangible. You found yourself opening your mouth to him, and it only took a second before he eagerly accepted the invitation. Your mind was screaming for you to stop this, but the electricity flowing through couldn’t be ignored as you kissed him back. When he finally pulled back, you were stunned. Disappointed, even. His eyes were dancing victoriously as they met yours, and you had no words to offer him. You were paralyzed under his gaze after the heated moment, just like how the two of you were back in high school.

“Don’t marry him,” he whispered, his eyes pleading as they met yours, “I always have loved you. You can’t marry that asshole and if you do, I can’t watch. You deserve better. Marry me, (Y/N). I know you want too.”

permanent tagged list: @dacremontgomerylover @thatonecurlygirl @emilia-grosso @hargrovesgoldilocks @xsvanjasx@daddydxcre@50shadesofbillyhargrovedaddy @kingofmyheart14@hotstuffhargrove@80steenmovie @baebee35 @mcrmarvelloki@kingsteve011@kaliforniacoastalteens @alpha-imagines @thephantomofthe-internet 

[strangest-things-lover]

Stop (Billy Hargrove x Reader)

A/n: Sup peeps! I’m literally crying rn bc I made a fanfic and accidentally pressed delete and I worked on it for more than two hours! It’s okay tho bc I wrote another one! Hope y'all enjoy it! Btw REQUEST ARE OPEN!

Summary: You and Billy have been dating for quite a long time now and he’s been avoiding you. You see him wandering the halls and took advantage. What seemed to start good, turned out bad.

You were waiting for Max at her locker for god knows how long. It was class time so there wasn’t anyone around. You heard footsteps coming from your right and turned to see Max. She looked confused but still kept walking.

“What brings you here?” She asked as she opened her locker.

“I need to see your brother right now! Do you know where he is?” You asked curiously, making Max laugh. She put her hand on your shoulder and spoke.

“You need to calm down! He’s probably walking around like an idiot.” You nodded your head.

“I’ll pay you back I swear!” You said before running off. You ran to your locker and decided to put all your things into it. You slammed the door and saw someone from the corner of your eyes. Billy. You made eye contact with him, before slowly walking to him.

“Hey sexy!” He said grabbing onto your hips, only to be rejected when you pulled away. You grabbed his arm and led him into the girls washroom.

“I need to talk to you.” You spoke softly. He smiled and moved forward, pushing you against one of the walls.

“Why don’t we keep that for later huh?” He snaked his hands to your butt and groped it harshly, pulling you closer to him. You wanted to get out of his grip but he was too strong.

“Billy, seriously! Stop!” He looked at you, before bringing his lips against your neck.

“You look hot today baby! I can’t help myself.” He kissed your neck to your jaw, he moved to your lips, but you turned your head. He pulled his body away from you and waited.

“What’s wrong with you?” He asked, sounding annoyed.

“What’s wrong with me? WHAT’S WRONG WITH ME? WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU?” You lost your patience, your soft gentle voice now a harsh growl. He looked a little taken back and he didn’t like the fact you’re raising your voice.

“Who do you think you’re talking to?” He asked in a low, intimidating voice. He slowly moved closer to you, blocking you between him and the stall door. 

“You, asshole.” He raised his hands to slap you, but stopped midway when he heard a teacher. He looked at you, covering your face in fear.

“This isn’t over.” He said before moving away towards the door. As soon as you heard the door close, you slid down and hugged yourself. What have you gotten yourself into? After about half an hour, you saw Max walk in.

“Y/N!”She yelled before running to your side. You looked at her with puffy eyes and she didn’t know what to do other than hugging you.

“That monster! Wait till I tell dad.” You held her wrist tightly, signalling her not too. You brought your hands to your face and wiped the tears away. You stood up and faced Max.

“I-I need to b-break up with him.” Even though you were stuttering, Max knew you meant it. She looked scared, for you, for what’s going to happen.

“You can’t do that, not with him. Make him break up with you Y/N.” She was panicking for some reason and you were confused.

“Why?” You asked, barely getting the question to leave your lips.

“Let’s just say that his ex moved to another school cause of him…” You needed to know more but you didn’t have the energy too. You hugged her tightly since she would be the only one who would understand.

“I love you so much Maxine! Thanks for the help!” You pulled away and she smiled.

“You too! Just, please try to avoid him for a while.” You nodded your head. She was about to leave but you pulled her back.

“Wait, are you guys going to hunt down the demogorgons? Cause I’ll come with you.” Her face lit up with excitement which answered your question.

“Meet us at Will’s house! I’ll see you then and hope you feel better!” She gave you one last hug before she left. You looked at yourself in the mirror and took a deep breath.

7 o'clock at the Byer’s House

You stepped out of your car and moved towards the door. You stood at the front, debating if you should go or turn back. Before you can choose, Steve opened the door and smiled!

“Y/n! Come in!” It was funny because now that Mrs.Byers is gone, Steve has been acting like a mom. You laughed and entered the house to see everyone’s face in shock. You turned behind you to see nothing.

“Hello?” You questioned and they all looked at each other. They all shook their heads and waved at you. You walked towards Lucas, plopping down beside him.

“What are you dipshits up to?” You asked as you turned to face “the squad”.

“We’re actually trying to plan how we are suppose to attack or lure the demogorgans into the centre. We have to go to the farm and go down the hole, light it on fire then come back up.” Steve and you looked at each other in confusion.

“And who’s driving?” Steve asked only for all of them to point at him. He rolled his eyes and grabbed the towel he had over his shoulders.

“This is not happening! Do you understand that? I never agreed to this! I promised to keep you guys safe and that’s exactly what I’m gonna do. If you go out there by yourself, don’t expect me or Y/n to save your ass’.” They looked at you and you nodded your head. The phone started ringing and no one bothered to notice because they were too busy fighting. You got up and went to answer the phone.

“Hello?” You asked to hear a female voice on the other side. You looked down at the number and it was coming from your house.

“Yeah! Y/n! Honey! A handsome young man came looking for you and his sister Ma-”

“WHAT?” You yelled through the phone and everyone around you turned their attention to you. Your body was heating up from what your mom just told you.

“It’s not a big deal, Y/n! I told him you both should be at the Byer’s house and he’s probably on his way. Make sure to not scare him!”

“DID YOU GIVE ALL OF OUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS TOO?” You asked as anger was boiling through your entire body.

“Y/n im so-”

“SAVE IT!” You yelled and slammed the receiver down, cutting her off. You looked towards the others in worry, especially Max.

“Max, you need to come with me right now.” Max didn’t even ask you anything and followed you. Steve moved in between you and the door, curious to know what’s so serious.

“What happened?” He focused mainly on you, analyzing the way your body was stiff and trembling.

“B-billly is c-coming.” You said through your stutters. Max gasped and moved away from the door.

“NO! HE CAN’T FIND ME! DO SOMETHING!” She yelled as she ran towards Lucas, who wrapped his arms around her. 

“Why are you guys scared of that guy?” Your head shot back to Steve and he moved back a bit.

“You don’t understand. He’s one son of a bitch Steve, you even know that. He’ll hurt Max and kill me!” Steve pushed you back, far away from the door. You started pacing around the living room. Sitting on the couch, getting up, pacing for a bit, and doing it all over again.

“Steve. I need to get her home before he com-”

You were cut off when you heard an engine roaring from outside.  “Billy.” Both you and Max said in unison.

“Okay, stay here with them Y/n! If he gets in, you need to defend them.” He said before opening the door. As soon as the door closed, all of you ran to the couch that was below the window and looked out. You being the tallest, had to get up and look from the top. You noticed how Billy was constantly looking at the window then turned to look at the kids. You looked again and noticed Steve swing his head back to the window.

(Ignore the subtitles)

“SHIT! Did he see us?” Dustin asked as he slid down the couch like the others. You went near the door and slightly opened it to see Steve on the ground and Billy walking towards the door.

“NO!” You immediately pushed your body weight against the door, but Billy was pushing on it real hard. You looked at the ceiling to see cracks starting to appear. You knew you had to let go before the entire door breaks.

“GO AWAY BILLY! MAX IS NOT HERE!” You shouted as loud as you can and heard a chuckle.

“PRINCESS! YOUR HERE TOO? WELL ISN’T THIS A LUCKY DAY!” You regretted even speaking. He shoved the door a little harder and you landed right on your ass. He slammed the door open and looked down at you.

“Well, well, well, who do we have here? Is that Lucas Sinclair?” He moved dangerously close to Max and Lucas and eyed them. You pushed yourself up and shoved yourself in between Billy and the kids.

“The doors behind you. Leave!” He laughed before wrapping his hands around your throat. You can hear the kids yelling and trying to pull him back but he was determined to get what he wants. You tried to pry his hands away, but it only got tighter.

“Watch yourself, Y/l/n! You might be signing up to see the bitchy side of me.” His face was probably a few centimetres away from yours. You snickered before saying,

“Aren’t I already?” His face slowly started turning red and before you can process, he threw you to the ground. You landed on your back and laid there for a few seconds, trying not to pass out. You could tell he was moving forward and just as he bent down, Steve opened the door, standing above you. You smiled and looked back at Billy before punching his face, nice and hard. He grunted as he fell back and Steve took the chance to bend down and punch him multiple times. You pulled Steve up and told him to get out of the house with the kids.

“Steve! Take them and start your plan.” Steve was hesitating, but he knew you would be fine. You straddled Billy’s hips and held him down, giving the others a chance to escape. Steve gave you one last glance.

“Are you sure?” You huffed.

“I’m positive Steve! Now get the fuck out!” He closed the door and you heard the car come to life and drive off. Billy took this chance to push you off of him and picked you up. He brought you to the couch and dropped you, setting himself on top of you.

“Get off of me!” You squirmed beneath him as he laughed evilly. He pulled your hands above your head and held it there.

“Give me one good reason to.” He seemed serious. You teared up and almost began to cry.

“You don’t love me.” The words left your lips as it made its way through his mind. As it hit him, he let go of your hands and stood up.

“What are you talking about? Of course I love you!” You stood up, maintaining the same eye level.

“Lies.” You shoved past him to the door, ready to leave this place but he pulled you back.

“You’re not leaving this place without explaining yourself!” He backed you up against the wall like he did earlier, but there was no sexual tension, only anger and sadness.

“Y-You haven’t been talking to me! You don’t even bother to checkup on me! You have been ignoring my texts. You have been partying with our school sluts when you told me you’re tired!” You didn’t even take a breath in between and just looked at Billy for an answer.

“I don’t understand so clarify this, you’re the one who took an interest for me first right?” You waited for an answer but he just looked at you blankly, lost.

“ANSWER ME BILLY!” He nodded his head and you can tell, he knew this was going somewhere bad and because it was all his fault.

“You’re the one who asked me out, am I right?” He nodded his head and looked down at his hands, looking at the promise rings you swapped with each other.

“You’re the one who gave me the promise ring and said we should always keep each other as a first priority!” He looked at you in shame, hating himself. You both didn’t even notice the fact that Billy, is now backed up against the wall.

“I didn’t know you felt that way… I’m sorry.” For the first time, you actually heard something from Billy that he meant. You sarcastically laughed.

“Wow! That’s the first thing you’ve actually meant!” He looked at you with tears in his eyes.

“I wasn’t doing anything with those girls anyway, even ask Max! I called them cows! I promise I’ll make it better.” You raised your left hand in between both of your faces and slowly took the ring off. You shoved the ring to his chest and gave a weak smile.

“You already broke it.” With that said, you kissed his cheek one last time and moved towards the door. You saw a single tear run down his cheek and you wanted to hug him, hold him, but both of you knew it’s not possible.

[markwhyareyousodaddy]

Roommates (Part 1?)

Summary: When you’re forced to rent out your extra room, Im Jaebum was the last person you expected to have to share your living space with… luckily, he keeps things interesting.

Genre: romance, hot roommate (I think i just made up this genre???), prbly smut later tbh (sorry)

Word Count: ~1000

A/N: Hey guys/gals/all!!! Okay so this is my first ever like real original content so it may be a lil rough but let me know what you think and all that fun stuff!!! I’m thinking about continuing it and adding some… ya know… but it will all depend, so for rn it’s all pretty chill.  Also special thanks to @jaybleep​ bc Julia helped motivate me enough to do this and I 10/10 recommend following her if you don’t already!! 

UPDATE: Part 2 is now posted! 

UPDATE (AGAIN): So is Part 3! (and now Part 4!) 

“No, really, it’s fine Jen. I completely understand. I could never ask you to turn down a job offer like this,” y/n said, sighing into the phone.

“I’m so sorry,” Jen began, “I feel awful backing out on you like this, especially knowing how steep the rent is going to be without me”. She allowed her fingers to absentmindedly trace the rim of the coffee mug sitting in front of her while apologies continued flooding through the phone. After being inseparable since 6th grade, the two were both excited to finally share a small house together. It took months of searching, but eventually they stumbled upon the perfect place… well, what was the perfect place.

“It’s only for a little while, I promise. My boss says the move will be a year, max. Then I’ll come back and we can live the way we’ve been planning to!” Jen chirped, her speech optimistic and excessively bright. Y/n knew her friend’s overly happy tone was just a strategy she was implementing as an attempt to cheer both of them up, but it did bring her some comfort regardless. 

“You’re right, you’re right. I think I can manage for that long,” she teased, trying to hide the still-lingering disappointment from her voice. Jen had been working in the same accounting firm for a few years now, and had been offered a higher-paying position if she was willing to temporarily relocate to Cincinnati. The idea of being without her for such an extended period of time was difficult to think about, but y/n knew this was an opportunity of a lifetime for her best friend. 

“Thank you so much for understanding, y/n. You’re the best. I have to go, but text me if you need anything.” The friends exchanged quick goodbyes before hanging up on one another. She cleared her mug and now-empty plate from the table, dumping the remainder of the lukewarm coffee and rinsing her dishes off before placing them in the sink. Silence filled the air around her, and morning sunlight streamed in through the windows. Although the house was already beginning to feel a little more like home, y/n was quickly beginning to realize it wouldn’t be the same without her best friend there to share it. Deciding not to dwell too long on the phone call, she surveyed the floor littered with boxes before walking over and plopping down in the center of the chaos.

*** 

Four hours and twenty boxes later, a majority of the unpacking was done. Filled with a sense of accomplishment, y/n stood up and strolled to the freezer for a well-deserved serving of ice cream.  As she passed her phone sitting on the kitchen counter, she noticed a series of texts left over two hours ago from Jen.

I don’t know how, but I totally forgot to mention that I found someone to take my room in the house!! I’ve got so many things going on rn, it must have just slipped my mind. 

His name is Jaebum. I don’t know him, but he’s my older brother’s friend from college and needs a place to stay for a while I guess.  

Apparently he’s pretty cool and won’t cause too much trouble for you. He’s looking to move in tomorrow actually (sorry I literally suck, I have no idea how I forgot about this???), so just lmk if it’s alright with you and I’ll give him the okay

Y/n’s thoughts were soon clouded with worry. Before she’d even been given the chance to fully process the idea that Jen would no longer be her roommate, she was already getting a new one… and one of the opposite sex, for that matter. The idea of a guy living in such close proximity made her uneasy. After all, she had been expecting to lounge around in her extra large pajama shirt all day on Sundays, and be able to walk freely down the hallway without pants on. Surely she couldn’t do those things with a stranger present. Even worse, the possibility of him being a horrible human being loomed in her mind. Granted, Jen’s brother usually had nice enough friends, but there was no saying what this one would be like. Before y/n got too lost in her own thoughts, she punched out a simple “sure” to Jen, deciding it would be best to let him move in tomorrow instead of waiting anxiously for a few more days. Fear overwhelmed her, and she nearly threw her phone across the room after hitting send, not wanting to look at Jen’s response and face the reality of it all. 

***

After a long night, y/n was jolted awake at 7:30 by the chiming of the doorbell. Dragging her feet, she shuffled down the hall, wondering who in their right mind would want to move in this early in the day. When her hand finally brushed against the brass knob of the door, she flung it open.

“You know,” she began while yawning and clearing the sleep from her eyes, “you didn’t have to…” her voice caught mid-sentence as she suddenly forgot how to breathe. Standing in front of her was a man slightly taller than average height, combing his dark hair back with his fingers, which were adorned with a few silver rings. Although he was dressed in a simple blue t-shirt and dark jeans with a black backpack casually slung over his shoulder, he still looked like something out of a magazine. He waited to see if she would finish her statement before awkwardly clearing his throat and offering his hand.

“So… I’m Jaebum. You must be…”

He was stunning, almost too much to take in at once. His even skin was a light toffee color with a slight pink tinting the full lips that graced his face. She noticed several hoops peppering his ears while his narrow, deep brown eyes gazed intensely at her, waiting for the response she should have given thirty seconds ago instead of observing him like he was a piece of classical artwork.  

“Y/n,” she replied, practically choking on her words.

“Y/n…” he repeated tentatively, lowering his outstretched hand and giving her a concerned look. “Well, uh, nice to meet you I suppose. Is it alright if I start to move my things in, or are we going to stand in the doorway all day?” he chuckled. After a few more silent moments, she wordlessly stepped back and raised her arm, motioning him inside. 

[punkscowardschampions]

Rio & Buster

Rio: Didn't say you had a girlfriend Rio: but you can tell her she's hitting me up with the back off too late and under fucked up misunderstanding, like 😂 Buster: Didn't say it 'cause I don't Buster: If some girl wishes that's her problem Buster: And yours now like 😂 Rio: It ain't funny, blowing up my phone making me look suspect, like Rio: anyway, Nance gave me the lowdown already so I know she's a cunt so I don't have to hold back Buster: Who's laughing? Buster: Send her my way if she's that desperate Buster: The lads are boring like Rio: Seriously? Rio: No I will Rio: if you're gonna do your own like that you can sort it yourself, not her pimp Rio: not* Buster: Whatever Rio: It so isn't but that's on you Rio: Are you lot out tonight then? Buster: Course Buster: You think I'm waiting at home for you, babe? Rio: Har dee har Rio: sounds like you had a cosy night in in mind tbf Rio: where you going then, wanna meet up? Buster: Not got the light or kettle on like Buster: Sick of the lad already? Rio: Yeah, what you had in mind Rio: Nah, but 2 ain't a party Rio: and I'm going home tomorrow so Buster: Wanna see if he can hang Buster: Fair Buster: I'll bring the party to you then, babe Rio: Pretty much Rio: You're feeling chipper today Buster: I'll insult you when I get there if you really want Rio: Not my kink Rio: would get us back to the status quo though Buster: Just buzzing 'cause you're off home and outta my way like Buster: Can't blame me Rio: I bet Buster: Not looking forward to kicking it in your own ends any more or what? Buster: I know you'll miss me but come on Rio: Nah but it ain't gonna be all fun and games when I get back is it Rio: Shit to sort Rio: but gotta be done Rio: and you wish Rio: I got reason to come back and annoy you some more now Buster: You're not gonna get grounded Buster: Don't worry about it Buster: And I know, kid Buster: Always making it obvious, Cavante Rio: Don't be daft Rio: I've gotta look out for Nance Rio: avoid another ex Rio: all that drama Rio: You're OBVIOUSLY deranged, McKenna Buster: You're used to all that shit many times over Buster: You got this, ma Rio: Shut up! 😂 Rio: Doesn't mean I don't get tired of it Buster: It ain't my fault you've had more exes than I've had fam dinners Buster: Not even starting on family bullshit of yours Buster: Well I'll sort you a decent line when I get there, put a pep back in your step, yeah? Rio: Yeah it is Rio: No show, you are Rio: and bet you've had more, just 'cos you ain't claiming 'em Rio: Go for it Buster: Fuck off I'm being nice here Buster: Trying to give you a proper going away and you're trying to fight me Rio: 🤷 Rio: Soz Rio: Only way I know how, clearly, all those exes, like Buster: What's wrong, babe? I know you ain't gonna miss me that bad so what is it? Rio: You shouldn't fuck Chloe Rio: Idk, you shouldn't have put that in my head Buster: I haven't Buster: She's not my type. I know what you reckon but I do have some standards Rio: Alright, good Rio: Too many lines already, I'm paranoid Rio: she's bad news Buster: Come get some fresh air with me then Buster: Plenty of people say that about me, like. Not that I'm trying to make a connection to her. Fuck that Rio: Might help Rio: Thought you were with your boys though Rio: Yeah but, at least you're upfront about what you are, good or bad Rio: 🐍 Buster: They'll be fine if I don't hold their hands through every song, babe Buster: She's really got to you, yeah? Rio: I'm just being dramatic, too many strangers here Rio: but she did a number on Nancy, that I know for facts, stand by the bad vibes even if I could relax on it rn Buster: Where are you, specifics. I'm come and get you if you ain't coming out Buster: Find those cunts later Rio: Idk, ages away from yours Rio: we're meant to be but the pre-party still going strong Rio: I'll meet you somewhere? Buster: Keep your phone on, I'll be that stalker and work out where you are Buster: Meet you near Rio: Not just a pretty face, ladies and gents Rio: It's alright, just pick a club, no need to ruin the night Buster: At least you're finally admitting how hot I am Rio: 🙄 Really needing the ego boost, yeah? Sure 👌😂 Buster: Find you in The Grand, yeah? Rio: Got it Buster: Half an hour max Rio: Cool, I'm nearer than you so I'll see you in there Rio: *He'd obviously been offended she wanted to leave the party and get a headstart on him on the town, but it was way too soon to show it (thank fuck) and still save face, so she got out without much pouting and whining. Only needed to take one bus, turns out she was about five minutes down the road from Clapham, tops; good to know. Maybe that was why she was feeling so out of it? Not knowing where she was, and who with? Been in that scenario before though and she'd not got this rattled so- blatant bullshit. Rio didn't plan on admitting it to him, but it had way more to do with Buster McKenna than was healthy. Head fuck.  This is why they avoided each other, and had for a while now. It weren't no good trying to just be nice to each other, always went too far. And arguing and being cunts didn't exactly cool the energy between 'em either. No, ignoring each other's existence was key. And yet here she was, going out to party with him. Well fucking done, girl. She rolled her eyes at herself, jogging up and down on the spot impatiently, near enough to the front of the club's queue now she needed to remember to look her hottest so they'd let her in faster. And result. She was in, no coat to put up, so she was away. Barstool, 'round of vodka shots, sorted. Toes tapping, faster than the beat of this shit tune. It was pretty early still, the club only now filling up. Shouldn't have an issue finding her. Not that it was a good idea but finish what they'd started now, like.* Buster: *The lads had been chilling at his since the afternoon doing fuck all of much but getting on his nerves, and when Barnaby suggested getting the drinks in and making something of the night he wasn't even the most relieved of the lot of them, like, so face saved there. Nice one, lad. It was the first decent favor any of them had done him in Christ knows how long, not that he was letting it show. Not a fucking amateur at that either, cheers. There was a girl he'd swiped that was why he was keen to be off. No other reason that they'd had to be privy to. James had been chatting about his cousin since he got with her and Buster wasn't trying to add to that conversation. They didn't know what they were fucking saying anyway. Silly pricks. Let them wonder and speculate over his antics tonight with the Tinder blonde, or any other, they loved it. He had his own mind full of bullshit that he personally didn't love. Worry was a new emotion regarding Rio, one that he didn't feel confident over dealing with, and a lack of confidence was even newer territory than giving a shit about Cavante's emotions. Or so he told himself before he racked up the lines to turn all that off for a while. Worked out proper well for him that had, here he was off and running to cheer her up or what the fuck ever. What was his fucking goal meant to be? Soft cunt. Gonna send her goodnight texts later or what, like? Stupid. Get real all he was gonna do was buy her some watered down drinks for as long as she let him. Big fucking deal and no great help. Still, as soon as he was in he took the stool next to her and did exactly that, ordering more of what she already had.* Rio: *And just like that, he was there by her side. As if this was all standard and they did it all the time. This week maybe but neither of them should get too fucking cosy with the idea, like. She took her share of the drinks without protest, even though she had nothing but empties to offer by the time he arrived. * Next round, like. *She shrugged, spinning the nearest shot glass aimlessly, avoiding eye contact She then spun herself to face the dance floor, like she was surveying the talent from her perch on high. This was fucking ridiculous. He'd be saying as much if she didn't act fast. Jumping up, the tunes still not there but she'd have to make do. As she weaved her way through the crowds, she took a second to break the rules and make eye contact, looking back at him and motioning with a question of 'are you coming?' hanging in the air.* Buster: *He wasn't listening to her 'cause that's how focused he had to be on not staring at her. She looked so fucking good. He'd said as much the other day, believing it when he did, but this was different. He felt it bones deep and more crucially, didn't know how not to show he was being affected. Fuck's sake. No more coke for him until he got his shit together like. Sort your head out, you twat. He shook it, playing as if he was shrugging off her offer to pay 'cause it was better she reckoned he was trying to buy her off again than- What? For the second time tonight he was already asking himself what the fuck he was trying to achieve. Shit. At least before he could chat any more nonsense to himself, or her, Rio was up and away. Not far enough given how easy dancing made it to be close, like, but a reprieve he could count in seconds. Breaths to take. Buster should've known in the next minute she'd steal it all off him with a look. Course. It was an old game. And he'd never once played by the rules, had he? It was too late to start now. He wasn't no choir boy and she was leaving in the morning she'd said. Fuck it. Not a fucking amateur, remember? He'd call her bluff and cheer her up before this shit tune was done. It was just dancing, who the hell was he if he couldn't handle that, yeah? Rio: *Again, screaming internally, asking what the fuck she thought she was doing and why the hell she was doint it; All the while making no effort to slow down, never mind stop. So glad he couldn't read her as well as he claimed, the fucking laugh he'd have about how much she was silently protesting (much too much for it to be anything but mortifying; and very bloody telling). Still, she knew the feeling of eyes lingering on her body well enough by now to know that's what was happening, what he was doing, despite himself. Despite herself, and what a good, sensible girl should do, she smirked, smug satisfaction at taking the lead in both senses. Fuck it, she could say it was the coke making her act up. If he was feeling brave enough in his own good behaviour to question it after. Not likely. So why not? She wanted this right now, so she was going for it. Whatever 'it' was. Stop thinking. Let your body takeover completely. With that in mind, or out of it, she began to move, getting closer to him than was necessary, routine full of 'almost' contact, designed to tease.* Buster: *The song was still shit but he wasn't listening to it either now. Couldn't hear anything but the sound of two heartbeats, his thumping enough to be shaming if he gave a fuck about anything other than getting closer than she already was to him, and hers once he was, echoing such a similar beat. There was smugness in having her rhythm there alongside the intrusion of his, literally hammering away at her pretense of utter control too. Loud and clear for him, drowning out everything that had been said before. Bullshit. Necessary but still ridiculous to look back on from where they were now. Nice try, Cavante, 'cause guess what, I know you are, babe. He wore a smirk to match hers, letting his 'routine' in turn spell out that the teasing shit had gone on long enough, while the hand which had settled on her waist as he moved pulled her body into his. He'd snorted his fair share of lines if he needed something to blame it on other than just being fucking over it and wanting to play a new game and it was unlikely she was gonna challenge him at this point. Hardly blameless herself, yeah? Whatever.* Rio: *She looks down at where his hand has ended up, eyes traveling back up to meet his, slowly, appreciating his body as she did so, letting him know she knew it was anything but a happy accident, but that she wasn't going to say anything either way. Hardly could now, could she? A silent deal being made on the floor tonight. 'This stays between us.' It didn't mean anything, like. Just sexual attraction, however fucked. She wouldn't hold it against his character if he didn't against hers. What happened in the club, like. Such a fucking cliche, Christ; but she felt like being one just this once if it felt this good. She had her back towards him now, winding up and down, hips clashing, making her ache. Before Rio could stop herself (a reoccurring theme of her time with him, it seemed), she had placed her hands over his, still on her waist, and was moving them down, to where she wanted them right now. Fuck. He was definitely going to pull away now, probably have some choice words for how sick and creepy and wrong she was and she didn't have a leg to stand on, no case to fight. Before he could, thinking fast (hopefully faster than he could), she pulls gently on his neck, so she can reach his ear to shout into it, shit tunes always being played too loud.* You promised me a line. Buster: *He shouldn't be this turned on by a few dance moves and unwavering eye contact but he is and there was no way she couldn't know, bodies pressed against each other as tightly as they were. Fucking hell. Yeah, he could lie to himself that it was the fault of the rich, white girls he usually approached not knowing how to dance without doing shit imitations of their current favorite pop icon or being too eager to check him out (sizing him up the same as he did them) to hold his gaze, but that's all it'd be, more bullshit when he'd already said no more.  It was too fucking obvious what this was about and what he wanted. And every movement of hers was as telling. None more so than when she stopped herself, 'cause it was forced in a way that none of their other actions had been, thought out instead of fluid. Of course, immediately after came a brief moment when he reckoned she was gonna nibble on his earlobe or something. No going back then, like, but he should've realised the headfuck was gonna come from a more familiar (as far as Rio Cavante was concerned) direction. Christ. When was the last time another girl had left him wanting more, this much and this soon? Buster couldn't remember. Couldn't think.  State of him.  At least her pulling away to speak let him breathe. He smirked again, faking regaining more composure than he had around her as standard, never mind on a night like this. Nodding his head in the direction of the toilets briefly, he leaned in to reply. * Come on, let's get you sorted. Rio: *She took him by the hand, pulling him through the crowd with an impatience they could both pretend was about coke. Yeah, right. Neither of 'em was fooled or in the mood for fooling now. Her mind had been fully made up for her when his reaction of outrage, disgust, and horror hadn't come; but the opposite had, the hardness she felt tight against her mirroring the ache she felt, less obvious outwardly but, was it though? He knew. She knew he knew so time to do something about it, boy! Now or never, like. Door swinging behind 'em, pulling him into the first free cubicle, reaching behind his frame to lock up, purposely trailing her hand against his exposed forearm, outstretched fingers softly trailing along the veins there, taut between ample muscle and goosebumped skin. Fucking hell. It wasn't her fault he was so god damn attractive. Regret it in the morning. She'd be long gone by then. Breaking eye contact away from where it had fallen below the belt (oops), she grinned, green meeting blue, breathing as laboured as heart.* Go on then... Buster: *The last thing he should have done was followed her into a space where every time his body shifted (however fucking subtly. Or not) it brushed somehow against hers, bringing them back to teasing each other, 'cause unless he pushed her fully against the cubicle wall there was no way to create the blatant friction they both craved, and he wasn't about to do that. Not yet. If she wanted coke, she was gonna have it. Simple as. Just as well that act was though, distracted as he'd become, like. If Buster let himself look back on any of tonight (not wise but nevertheless still likely) he'd pat himself on the back for once again not being a fucking amateur, fine chopping the lines on his coffee table before he came out so all that was left was to unwrap that shit, lay hers out and roll up a note. He'd been on autopilot getting the drugs from his pocket, breathing ragged as hers, the feeling of her stare (and where it was purposefully aimed) leaving him incapable of coherent thought about anything else. Fuck. He wanted her so bad. His own eyes fixed on the locked door, checking and rechecking, focused solely on trying to do that until the memory of her touching his arm resurfaced and then all he could think of was the idea that formed. He smirked for...what a third time? ... Christ knows, before laying her coke out on another, higher patch of exposed skin, eyebrow raised, wordlessly asking Rio how badly she wanted her share now.* Rio: *And there it was. Another silent challenge, a dare. No need for fucking words creating any unwanted space between them, made her wonder why they'd ever bothered when this was so, SO much better. No comparison. Of course, the answer was they bothered so they didn't end up here but she wasn't listening to sense tonight, fuck off. Right now, she WANTED to be here, nowhere else she'd rather, frankly. Fret over it later, like. Or not. It felt TOO damn right to call it wrong. So she wouldn't. And he wouldn't. And no one else need ever know. She wants to hesitate, knows she should. Eyebrows raising to make some display of being all 'really?', like she's so scandalized or not into it, only doing it 'cos she couldn't refuse a dare, could she? But Rio Cavante didn't even flinch, crashing into him full force, pushing him against the door, arms wrapped around his neck to steady herself, steady them both. This close, the heat of him unbearably sexy, his body was so toned and fucking perfect, Christ! She felt dizzy with it, sweat was slicking the white powder to his naked skin, collar bone a natural shelf to hold it. The temptation to lick it off him like salt for a tequila shot was almost too much but she didn't want to be accused of wasting the coke, so she pressed her nose into him, snorting it with ease, shuddering more from the sensation of being this close than anything else, tipping her head back in pleasure, hoping he didn't hear the small moan than found its way out.* Fuck! *Snapping her head back, rubbing her nose with a sniff, damn. Okay. She obviously had to one-up him. What else was a girl to do, yeah? She moved away, to the bag still laid out on the top of the loo, grabbing it 'fore he had a chance to stop her or do anything else to drive her crazy. Shit, she had to take back some control, like! She smirked back at him, the solution to her problem of how to best Buster McKenna becoming obvious as she looked down. Racking it up on her ample cleavage, as if to say, triple dog dare you, McKenna* Buster: *There was half a second as his shoulder blades hit the door, rattling the hinges with the force of their bodies colliding again, closer than they'd been yet somehow but still, at the same time - impossibly- not enough, that he wanted to tell her 'fuck the coke' or something like it. Swore he could almost feel the words tumbling out, begging practically for her to just fucking kiss him instead. But he didn't. Or make a move to himself either. As soon as he heard her moan he knew why, even though they'd waited years and his entire body was insisting that he couldn't any more, refusing in the form of his own shudders as he stood there, knees weak from barely any contact. Fuck's sake. There was so much promise in that sound that Buster grinned, holding her gaze with baited breath until she gave his eyes no choice but to travel with her, settling exactly where she planned for them to. * Oh fuck. *If she said anything about him stealing the words out of her mouth later (not that they could chat about any of this casually) he'd deny it, not realising an echo had escaped from him as he launched himself towards her, lifting her slightly so she rose to meet his bowed head easily. Finally Rio's back landed hard (thankfully against wood same as his had rather than cold, dirty porcelain) with force enough that she'd feel it tomorrow. He wanted that more than anything, even as his line disappeared, snorted all too soon. Fuck her trying to pretend she didn't remember, if her mind pulled that shit her body would call her a liar. He'd made sure of that, like. There was always more he could do though, and he didn't hesitate to put his mouth on the skin she'd already offered him, kisses desperately hard and bruising as his hands trailed lightly down her body, skimming each curve more brazenly than he'd ever looked her up and down before. Christ that seemed like a lifetime ago, her beckoning him onto the dance floor. Not that it mattered. Too much had happened to go back now and there was well more than he needed to happen still.* Rio: *Her cries, a mixture of pleasure and pain as she was unceremoniously slammed into the wall, caught in her throat. Like she couldn't express how much she wanted this, NEEDED this. And she couldn't. No moaning or dirty talk was going to cut it but she could but try. Knowing he knew regardless, and that he felt it too, only amped it up further.* You want me so bad, huh?* Stating the obvious for her own satisfaction, no question mark needed. Muffled curses at him; warning him if he dared stop, to do more, worse, faster, harder, NOW; acting as their version of pillow talk. Pulling his hair, novelty of being above him in the literal. Rio found purchase, sitting atop the toilet, kicking the seat down so he could kneel as she spread her legs for him, pushing his head down, showing him where she needed him.* Please, Buster, please... *She didn't care that this was a club bathroom, that people could definitely hear them, that they'd be hearing a lot more soon if she had anything to do with it. That he was her fucking cousin. Fuck. She just did not care about anything but having him touch her, fuck her. But before he could, there was a monstrous bang on the door that rattled the hinges harder than they had only a few minutes previous.* Shit! Legs clamping shut, jumping down from the seat, pocketing the drugs in her bra without hesitation, she clambered over him, pushing him back, so he was sat down.* I got this, yeah? Worry about yourself. Catch you later... *Rio murmured, squeezing his hand in the hope he'd fucking listen to her, not trusting a coked out McKenna to deal with what was clearly a bouncer and not just a punter desperate for a piss, like. She squeezed out of the smallest possible gap in the door, shutting it behind her, so Buster wasn't spotted.* Buster: *Fuck me. *Holy shit, every word out of her mouth was fucking him up but it was the begging that REALLY sent him over and made him use a phrase that was ridiculously literal. He couldn't help it, knowing that she wanted him bad enough to say that shit out loud what he hadn't when the coke first came out, made more than his knees go weak. He was about to insist that she told him what she wanted again, just to hear it, biting his lip to prevent a moan from coming out before the sentence did when something makes everything stop. It turned his wants back to fantasy, yet again becoming a scenario that wouldn't happen. 'Cause he isn't stupid. As much as many other parts of him were desperate to ignore the pounding on the door, his head, coked out as it is, still knows that they can't. The hired muscle out there wouldn't let them. Shit. It was somehow the unrealest part of this, fucked up as that sounded even to no other ears but his own, that this was how the night was going to end, not how he'd finally let himself want it to. They'd both given in, fully, and there was no pretending at this point (whatever he might convince himself of later, dismissing the night as a weird headfuck etc etc) the drugs were why he wanted her so badly. And worse, all they were now were the reason why he couldn't have her. Fuck's sake. Buster hadn't felt a surge of anger overwhelm him this utterly -suddenly too- since his sister left. Wherever he looked was flooded red, and for Rio's frantic movement, the only thing he managed to do was bite his tongue and clench his fists. Until she'd gone and then he stood up, immediately pacing (an agitated cokehead cliche) the cubicle transformed into a cage he didn't dare leave in this state. Just as well 'cause the next second had him striking out, kicking out hard at the space where their bodies had been, with as much power as he felt had been robbed from him. The wood protested one last time, drowning every sound in his head out with the crash, thank fuck. The cubicle didn't fall to pieces, of fucking course, 'cause it was another thing he needed to happen and he sank back onto the toilet seat, taking shallow breaths.*