#maybe i will post it later today if im feeling brave and can work out how to operate ao3

[petrodragonicapocalypse]

[smutinlove]

Hello! I hope you are doing well.

I just read the rules for requests post and I wonder if I can send one. Hopefully, this is alright... Would you mind if the reader was non-binary? Not sure I can ask that so I'll leave it to you.

I kinda really wanted to read Jason and reader being best friends, and reader and Jason going to an amusement park with other friends. Whether friends and bestie/reader know about Jason's identity as Red Hood is up to you.

Reader wants to go to the haunted house attraction, but since they're easily frightened, they always avoid going on one. But they really want to have the experience someday, because even though it's scary, other people seem to have fun.

Maybe Jason sees that and decides to drag Reader and their friends inside, and they all have a grand time, because Jason is scarier than the actors. 😆

—hope i did this right!

•non-binary reader. (i really hope i did this right otherwise im cooked)

•no use of y/n, she/her, he/him for the reader (if there is let me know!!!)

•i've never been to an amusement park so idk if i got any of the amusement park shit right

The scars on his face and arms had slowly started to fade, but they were still there. It showcased what Jason Todd, your best friend had, been through.

He had died and then was reborn, shocking you especially. And later on, you found out about his identity as Red Hood. But that didn't matter. Today is supposed to be a fun day full of adventure and excitement.

The sun hit Jason's face, causing him to blink rapidly. "Idiot," you muttered. He rolled his eyes playfully. "Whatever," he said, digging into your bag of popcorn while your friends laughed.

You and the others continued to stroll around the amusement park. As you and your friends went deeper into the park, you noticed a giant medieval-themed haunted house with a sign that read, "FREE FOR TWO HOURS!"

You wanted to go. But it looked terrifying. There was a man dressed up as Dracula taking pictures with tourists outside the haunted house. He looked terrifying.

You gulped as you tried to lead Jason and your friends away from it. But then Jason uttered the most jaw-dropping words ever. "Hey, there's a haunted house! Let's go," Jason said. He grabbed your hand and led you and the others right to it.

Jason opened the door and motioned for you and your friends to go. "Scared, Todd?" you challenged. "We'll see." He winked and went in after you.

The interior of the haunted house was scarier than the exterior. There were cobwebs everywhere. It was dark, and there was only one way. Straight.

There was a curtain. Jason, being the brave soul he was, slid the curtain. Someone dressed up as a skeleton jumped up and screamed in Jason's face.

Jason stared at the "skeleton," totally confused, before chuckling. "Funny," he said. The "skeleton" gulped. Jason pushed past the skeleton, venturing further into the haunted house. You and the rest of your friends followed behind him; some were already terrified but also trying not to laugh.

As you, Jason, and the others ventured further, the walls became more closed in, making you feel trapped. You heard a creak and gasped. The lights started flickering. Jason laughed.

"A little trick. I bet a fake spider or a vampire will pop out any second now!" Jason declared, running a hand through his hair. You and the others murmured "okays" and "whatevers."

And sure enough, when Jason turned a corner, you heard a scream and rushed in front. Jason stood there, laughing as the man dressed as a zombie fumbled to get up, and he looked terrified of Jason. Soon, you and the others burst into fits of laughter.

───── ❝ authors note ❞ ─────

yayy

it's not my best work

it's been sitting in my drafts for a week or something but oh well

anyway it's pretty obvious that i've never been to a haunted house or an amusement park... #poor

[oh-for-fic-sake]

What will daddy Henry do if his little is sad because someone took something valuable from her?

So i wanst sure what to base this on entirely, so I'm going to go with something I went through over the last few weeks. I had a little bit of anon hate, which I deleted but the words stuck with me making me second guess everything i was working on and the confidence i had in my writing was taken away. so this is like a shameful self indulgent fantasy that im going to read to myself when ever im down.

Warnings: Pretty Personal For Me, Angsty, Fluffy, Self Doubt, Happy Ending, DDLG, Long!!

Tagging: @viking-raider @isitmine @tinabean37 @loserrlauraa  @msblkfire84 @henrythickcavill @plainbrunettelbl @dummiesshort @cynic-spirit @pandaxnienke  @two-unbeatable-beaters @libbymouse @wolfieash @eldarwen333 @princesssterek @mom2000aggie @blackestpinkworld 

(not sure who to tag in headcannons? these are the ones on my everything taglist)

Henry watched quietly with a frown as you sat down in the living room, eyes cast down at the tablet in front of you shoulders slumped.

"poppet what's wrong love?"

"n-nothing da-addy" you said with a small stutter

Henry shifted on his feet looking at you critically before coming over to you.

"nothing? So your sitting here almost in tears over nothing" he stated sceptically rounding the sofa sitting next to you.

"I'm not cryin" you sniffled trying to bite your lower lip to stop it from wobbling.

"not yet, but close enough poppet, hand it over" he said holding out his hand waiting for the tablet.

You whined not wanting to hand it to him at first but after a mini battle of wills you placed the colourful tablet in his hand.

Your head was cast down and you rubbed your eyes trying to catch the tears before they were noticeable.

"okay then, so this is your new story?" he asked scrolling through the page not reading it all but scanning the words, it was well written like always.

At the beginning of the pandemic he suggested you started a blog, and you had. A writing blog all full of fanfictions of... Him.

He didn't mind he actually love you doing something constructive, it kept you happy and busy which helped him because there wasn't many free days even in lockdown. He was working out, reading scripts or rearranging covid tests and travel.

Plus knew these smut blogs existed, even lurked on a few.

"y-yeah" you mumbled leaning on him hugging his arm scanning the page as he scrolled, you knew he wasn't reading everything maybe every few lines

"sooo what's the problem?" he said not finding an issue with the writing.

"i... I cant post it" you muttered looking down avoiding his gaze

"why?" he asked frowning not liking the defeated tone you had.

"j-just because..."

"ah I see, you have lost your confidence" he said quickly figuring out the problem, the downside to writing was everything was personal preference so tiny comments could knock your confidence.

In a way it was like his work, you put your heart and soul into it and then people don't like it? It was always a bummer. But he was used to it, you were not.

You nodded to him it was true you'd lost your confidence, you hadn't wrote for a while.

You couldn't seem to find the words to fit together anymore.

You felt silly, they were just a few mean comments, words from a nasty troll who didn't have anything better to do but it hurt, you poured your heart into every chapter and then for people to rip it to shreds? It stung.

"y-yes I... They didn't like it" you hummed fiddling with your fingers, drawing deep breaths trying not to cry

"and so what?" he said shrugging making you snap your gaze to him.

"wha?"

"it doesn't matter love, so a few people didn't like it, lots of people do, I love your stories"

"you have to your my daddy"

Henry huffed and shook his head at you ruffling your hair pressing a kiss to your head amused that you thought that's the only reason he liked your writing.

"don't stop writing just because of a few mean people nugget, it takes a lot of skill to write and a lot of bravery to share it. Your a brave talented little baby and I'm very proud of you"

He said cooing as that seemed to be the final push sending you over the edge making you burst out into tears.

He hugged you moving the tablet out of the way before pulling you to his lap, unbuttoning his shirt half way and squished you into his bare chest knowing you needed to feel him, not a shirt.

"shh its okay babygirl, your stories are wonderful, and you have fun writing them don't you baby?"

You nodded crying harder trying to get the words out but you just couldn't instead whining incoherently into him.

"and you enjoy making the little banners? And collect all your photos and gifs?"

"y-yeah but they di-dn't like it last time!"

"they don't have to like everything you do sweety"

"but I don't wana upset them!"

"did you do the warnings?" he asked knowing all about the do's and don'ts of posting your erotica.

You nodded whining you always did warnings on stuff to be safe.

"and make the little cut thingy you were telling me about?" again you nodded at him

"so your telling me they read the warnings, clicked to see it and then were mean?" you sniffled biting your lip trying to calm down but nodded to him humming quietly.

"well then it sounds to me like they were going out of their way, looking for someone to pick on" he said slowly rocking you slightly.

You fell quiet resting your head on his chest as he rubbed your back and patted your bottom soothing you.

"but what if they wasn't? What if my stories are bad- and encourage bad stuff!" you cried tucking yourself into him tighter.

"no-no you repeat after me, fiction is fiction" he said pulling you back wiping your tears waiting for you to say it out loud.

"fic-tion is f-fiction" you repeated

"I did everything I could to warn people"

"I-I did everyth-ing I could to w-warn people" he smiled at you as you drew a huge breath calming yourself down.

"and they are jealous because I'm an adorable, smart, funny kind and caring babygirl who has the cutest little peach butt in the world~" he said smirking at you from above holding you tightly to him pressing a kiss to your head.

"and they- daddy! Noo! I can't say that~" you gasped flushing as you realised what he had said

"oh yes you can because its the truth now come here let daddy bite that peach~" he growled playfully snapping his jaws at you.

"ah-no!" you screeched giggleing as he began tickling you all over wrestling you playfully trying to lean over and bite your but through your shorts.

He landed two solid bite's on your bottom before pulling back. Even though he had cheered you up he could see you were still doubting yourself.

Henry cast a glance to the tablet and smirked forming a plan that might just get you back on track. He was not going to let anyone steal your sparkle.

"come on you you've spent enough time writing go play in the garden with Kal"

Once you left henry got to work swiping up the tablet and going on your one drive seeing the meticulously organized notebooks, recognising a few by name.

A few weeks later Henry came in to the living room with a medium size box and plopped it on the sofa next to you.

"here we go nugget!" he said placing the gift next to you, they couldn't have come quickly enough, he had noticed you hadn't been writing at all, which upset him because he knew how much you loved it.

"what's that daddy?" you asked peering over the box not expecting any gifts.

"why don't you open it and find out?" he said sitting the other side of the box handing you a pair of scissors to slice the tape.

You moved slowly cutting it open and pulled the box open then froze.

"d-daddy? What thats my..." you trailed off pulling out the hard back books your banner on the front cover.

"your stories? Yes poppet, I realised that you were putting so much work into these things but could loose them, they are soo good that daddy wanted to read them over and over and now we can!" he said pleased with himself as you sat there shocked looking at the small collection of a5 books.

"but their- i dont..." you said happy but completely shocked, flicking through the pages, there were even a few comments in the margins from henry pointing out the pits he liked making your heart swell with pride.

Henry moved to stand behind you pressing a kiss to your hair.

"They are brilliant! So good I'm so proud of every thing you have achieved and I want them on our book shelf, in the living room" he said making you tear up.

"Really? You... You think their that good?" you whined eyes blurring with tears as you hugged the first book to your chest.

"absolutely poppet now go on, you do the honours~" he said pressing your shoulder urging you to go to the cube bookshelf.

You tiptoed over to it and slowly pulled out each little custom book with your banner on the front.

You sat down placing each one delicately on the shelf the five books each lining up with one another half filling the empty cube shelf.

"oh no baby look? The shelf isn't full is it? You know what that means" he said standing looking

"I-I've gotta write?" you asked sniffling weeping softly but this time because you were happy.

"exactly! You need to fill the whole shelf, so you keep up the good work and tell daddy when you finish your next story and we can keep adding to it!" he said cheerfully walking over handing you the tablet.

You smiled to yourself and looked to the books, your books- actual real life books on a shelf!

You grinned throwing yourself at him latching onto him feeling your confidence come back just from seeing how much you had done.

Suddenly the hate didn't matter, your daddy like them enough to make them into real life books! And even annotated them himself?

And if your writing was good enough for your daddy then it was good enough for you.

"daddy, can I have my screen time now, I want to write!!" you said jumping up and down on the spot excited to start your next chapter.

Henry grinned nodding deciding you can have as much screen time today as you wanted as long as it meant you wasn't giving up your new hobby.

[bbrandy2002]

Wacky Drabble #18: The Turkey Drop

This is part of @emceesynonymroll weekly wacky drabbles.

Prompt: What if I dont see it

Im a day late on this one, wasn't sure if I even wanted to post it, but, here we are.

A/N: I can't take credit for the idea of this as it comes from an old show and I'm just recreating one of the Thanksgiving episodes from it, sort of.

Summary: The gang gathers together in Ramsford to celebrate Thanksgiving with the Beaumonts. Let's just say, all hell is gonna break loose.

Warning: Turkeys may be harmed but I'm choosing to defy reality and believe they are all okay. If you don't feel you can, this is the heads up not to read 🦃

I put a "read more" in every story, sometimes they work and sometimes they don't. Crossing my fingers.

**********

Riley has always respected the customs and traditions that have been carried down throughout Cordonian history. Being the American- born, Queen of Cordonia, she opted to celebrate this holiday during her first year of marriage, in private- just she, Liam, and their close friends. She didn't want the Cordonian people to ever feel that she was trying to "Americanize" their great country. Liam, however, loved the idea of having one day out of the year for reflection and giving thanks, as this was something even Cordonian's would appreciate.

It was during their second year of marital bliss, the King presented this idea to the Royal Council, where it was passed almost unanimously. Madeleine was the only dissenting vote, having nothing to be thankful for.

It was decided the third Thursday of every November would be designated, Thanksgiving, in Cordonia.

What you are about to read is the real and true account of how the Duchy of Ramsford chose to kick off thier first official Thanksgiving.

**********

The weather was chillier than normal that day for the typically warmer climate of the Mediterranean country. Ramsford citizens bundled in light coats, braving the elements, in anticipation of the first Thanksgiving festival hosted by their Duke and Duchess. As festival goers wafted through the rows of vendors who were preparing enticing delicacies synonymous of their homeland, purchasing turkey related memorabilia, and partaking in games often seen at these event, they eagerly awaited the appearance of their very popular royals.

Maxwell had insisted he be the one in charge of putting this shindig together, planning every single detail, even down to the location of each port a potty. Bertrand was all too happy to oblige, having no free time with a toddler and a brand new baby. The only request made- absolutely, under no circumstances, were those 'blasted, overly feathered, menaces' of his, to be in attendance. Well, of course not, Maxwell had another kind of bird in mind, ones that were more in the spirit of Thanksgiving, and he would make sure each family in Ramsford had one of their own.

Drake walked morosely behind Liam and Riley, who were busy greeting their adoring citizens with Bertrand and Savannah. He wasn't in a festive mood since being dumped a few days ago. It wasn't that he was in a serious relationship yet with the sexually oppressed American from Illinois, but, who she left him for....Neville.

"Ohhh Walker!"

Drake cringed at the unbearable voice calling out to him and he had no use for entertaining her today. He clutched the whiskey flask, a former fiancee had given him, preparing to drown out the incessant mockery that was sure to follow.

"So...", Olivia eyed him with a devilish grin and her signature raised brow "...enjoying the single life again?", she taunted.

He huffed, "at least I had an "again", what's your excuse?"

She cackled, "Touche". Her eyes roamed the surroundings as they continued to stroll along, her mood shifting with curiousity "where the hell is Maxwell, he's usually at every one of these goddamn things making a fool of himself".

Bertrand turned to the Duchess, having finished with the receiving line of guests, clearing his throat, "My brother is off preparing a surprise that will be the delight of all of Ramsford today".

Savannah looked at Bertrand adoringly, "That's right Bertie, we are giving away a free turkey to enjoy with their families this holiday season".

"That's very generous and kind of you both, I'm sure your people will be very grateful, especially those less fortunate", Liam nodded, clasping Bertrand approvingly on the shoulder.

Drake shook his head, "I still can't believe Maxwell put this whole thing on himself, I don't trust it", sipping the last remnants of his drink.

"Drake, don't be a hater. Besides, Maxwell has proved himself to be more than responsible and mature of late", Savannah defended.

"What if I don't see it?"

The group continued to enjoy the festivities and fanfare as the sun finally broke through the thickened clouds, shining a ray of warmth below. A group text message from Maxwell came through as each of them checked their phones simultaneously, telling them to look up.

Bertrand, Savannah, Liam, Riley, Drake and Olivia, each shielded their eyes from the bright sun as they looked toward the sky eagerly. The faint sound of a helicopter getting louder as it approached closer to their location. A crowd began to gather around them as Bertrand smiled on proudly.

Riley pointed up excitedly, "Look! It has a banner on the back of the helicopter".

"Happy...Thanksgiving...from the Beaumonts", Liam read aloud as the banner became clearer. Savannah and Bertrand acknowledged the ohh's and aww's of the crowd, who were enchanted by the extravagant display taking place 2000 feet above them.

"What the hell just came out it?", Drake squinted to get a better look, as a small object appeared to have fallen from the large chopper.

"I don't know, maybe its a skydiver...", Riley answered as she looked on in anticipation.

Olivia furrowed her brows, "I don't see a parachute yet... wait!...there's another one and a third".

"Those can't be skydivers...I just can't quite make out what they are though", a bewildered Liam replied before his eyes widened with realization,"OH MY GOD...THEY'RE TURKEYS!!"

The crowd began to scatter in panic as live turkeys came crashing down around them, most of them landing on the soft tarps vendors had set up. Brown and white feathers intermingling through the air as stunned turkeys flapped wildly in anger. Patrons pushing and shoving one another in desperate search for safety, running for their lives.

A stunned Bertrand, scrambled to calm the masses to no avail. Savannah cried out loudly, "Oh my god, the humanity!", after ducking under a table, pulling Bertrand down with her.

Bastien made every attempt to shield Liam and Riley, who clung protectively to one another, while dodging and weaving through crowds of fearful people, stray feathers and irate falling turkey's. They stopped only briefly as they passed a padre, recieved their last rites and hauled ass to a picnic shelter. As the helicopter circled the grounds to launch a second wave of birds, Liam hurridly scrambled to reach Maxwell to cease the unintended assault.

Drake took off running with Olivia hot on his heels. He banged relentlessly on the door of the nearest porta-a-potty where an older gentleman allowed a frantic Drake and Olivia to hide. Due to being unable to hold three grown people, Drake stood in the doorway, having just enough room to shield his head. Olivia peeked over his broad shoulders as the last of the fowl fell on a tent across from them. They stood in astonishment momentarily, unsure if it was safe to exit while screams and the jumbling shrill of turkeys reverberate off their metal enclosure.

The older gentleman with them, finally spoke out when something strange caught his eye, "what are they doing?", gesturing at the 15 or so gathered birds in front of them.

Drake scratched his head in thought, "I think the little bastards are...organizing"

"I've seen this before", Olivia replied surely, "they're strategizing... its basic battle tactics...they're planning a counter attack".

Drake motioned to the formation of incoming turkeys, questioningly, "You've seen this before?"

Olivia patted her clothing down and began pulling knifes from various hidden holsters underneath, a determined look sketched across her face. "People...birds...whats the difference, they're both full of shit. I'm a Nevrakis, damn it...I will not be turkied to death by these...disgusting chicken wanna be's...you with me or not, Walker?". She holds up a knife that barely misses his face as he stumbles backwards off the edge to avoid it.

Drake swipes the blade from her steady hand, his dark brown eyes filled with savagery, "Let's end these fuckers!".

2 hours later...Ramsford Memorial Hospital

"Drake, can you hear me?", a concerned Liam stood at the bedside of his lifelong friend, when Drake's eyes began to flutter open.

"Liam...wh...where am I?"

"You're in the hospital buddy, you've got a nasty concussion and a broken nose, but, the doctors had a head CT ordered and it didn't show any serious trauma or permanent damage...you will, however, have to stay here overnight for observation".

Drake glanced around the room, grimacing at the shooting pain from his throbbing, bandaged nose and the seering pressure behind his eyes. The overhead lights making his already blurry vision so much worse. He attempted to speak, but, his voice was hoarse and dry. Liam reached for a cup of water that sat on his bed tray and assisted him in drinking.

Drake licked his lips, "what happened? The last thing I remember was grabbing the knife from her", he nodded at Olivia, who was standing in amusement at the end of his bed, "why the hell am I'm so jacked up?".

Liam looked to Olivia, he, himself not entirely sure of the exact circumstamces for Drake's injuries, hoping she could shed light on the situation.

Olivia moved around the bed to stand next to Liam, an uncontained smiled slipping across her pale face, "It was a giant Turkey...smashed right into your face", she clapped her hands together loudly, "Smack!". A light chuckle escaped her as both men glared back with astonished expressions.

Several seconds of silence commenced as that information began to process.

"What?", Drake snapped.

Olivia explained that Maxwell must have had one turkey left because another one came barrelling out of no where, dropping like a stealth bomber, and crashing right into his face. Never one to mince words, she took the opportunity to let him know that his face looks better now that most of it is covered in bandages.

Liam took in a deep breath, "I'm going to take my leave now that I can see you are well. I told Bertrand I would attend the press conference with him...apparently, Maxwell thought turkey's could fly".

Drake rolled his eyes, mumbling to himself, "Responsible and mature, huh?", he looked back to Liam with a grateful smirk, "thanks Liam for being here".

Liam clapped Drake's arm, "No problem", he turned to Olivia as he made his way for the door, "you coming?".

"Yeah", Olivia grabbed her coat and clutch that were laying across one of the hospital chairs and followed Liam to the door. She hesitated before fully exiting, turning sharply on her stiletto heels. "You did...well out there today soldier".

"I got clobbered in the face by a fucking bird, Liv!", he shouted back, grabbing his nose in pain as his head jostled from his over-exaggerated retort.

"Even so...", she trailed, as a long pause followed, the silence nearly becoming awkward. A small hint of compassion crept through her strong features and Drake instantly recognized the change in her demeanor.

"Happy Thanksgiving, Walker".

"Happy Thanksgiving...Liv".

[ectodog]

it’s the 4th anniversary of the premier of vld which of course means i have assembled a rough timeline for my descent into voltron special interest hell. it goes something like this:

- june 10 2016: vld season 1 premiers. i am none the wiser

- january 20 2017: season 2 comes out. this fact is irrelevant to me

- august 4 2017: season 3 happens. still not entirely sure what a “voltron” even is

- mid-august 2017: one of my friends cosplays keith. that’s cool. who’s keith?

- october 17 2017: season 4 arrives. that’s fine i guess

- march 2 2018: season 5 has entered the building. i am vaguely aware that i have known people who watched it at some point. the fandom is apparently “terrifying” but i survived homestuck, so i scoff at the concept and go on with my life

- june 15 2018: season 6 drops. i see a bunch of cool gifs and pretty fanart. coupled with the hype i have absorbed from the lead up to it, i wonder if i should give the show a watch

- june 16 2018: i start watching vld. two (four) episodes in and i love it. i can already tell i’m a hunk kinnie, and this brings me no end of joy

- june 28 2018: within two weeks, i have caught up entirely. i am thriving in the post-s6 hype

- july 20 2018: at sdcc, the Big Reveal happens. shiro is gay. he is a disabled main character of of colour in a wildly popular show for kids, and he is kind and brave and the pinnacle of masculinity, and he is gay. no matter your shipping opinions, this is incredible news and it’s hard to Not ride the high, so why bother trying? they show a trailer and announce the release date for season 7, and within hours a bunch of booted recordings of s7e1 are floating around online

- july 23 2018: my interest level has gotten to the point where i need to make a separate twitter for it, so i do. (fun fact: as of today, less than 2 years later, said twitter has over 7300 posts on it. my main, 4x that old, has ~30k)

- august 10 2018: season 7 is online at 1am my time. im selling at an artist alley all weekend, starting the following morning. i binge half the season anyway before passing out, and completely avoid the internet until i can watch the rest later that day

- october 5 2018: at nycc, the trailer for s8 and release date are revealed. i immediately book the announced day off work because i know i will want to watch the entire thing at once the second it’s out

- mid-october 2018: “leaks” of s8 start appearing online. pretty much no one in the fandom believes them, because no one Likes them. they seem ridiculous. people start making “leakverse” fanworks to feed some of the finale anticipation into, including me. no one really thinks they’re plausible at all

- december 14 2018: season 8 airs. i post a quick but heartfelt fanart before gearing up for 1am. it starts, and i cry. the first time they form voltron, i cry some more. things keep happening, and i keep getting tears on my screen, and i have to pause and start it over and over, but i live tweet the whole thing anyway. the leaks were... real. i come out of it unsure how i feel, exactly, but i am exhausted from the marathon and so immediately pass out

- the same day, after some sleep: im upset and confused as to why the finale season was so hollow. i see im not alone. it’s a rough week, feeling like something i love so deeply let me down so much. i realize it’s only been 6 months since i got into it - but, clinging to a deep sense of betrayal, i cry some more anyway

- the immediate aftermath: there are petitions and accusations of censorship and conspiracies about where the “real” s8 is. it’s hard not to get caught up in, or at least dragged down by, the lack of hype. no one who worked on the show says anything for days, weeks, months. fix it fanwork starts cropping up, and i surround myself in them. none of the excitement from before is there, not the same way it was. i start a new and highly ambitious piece of art out of spite. it’s left unfinished

- january 2 2019: lion forge releases the third volume of vld comics. no one really cares. i certainly don’t

- the intermediate aftermath: it becomes clearer by the day that the season was, simply put, a failure and a flop. no one liked it. kids cried over it and parents had no idea how to explain it to them. the fandom and community dim for a while, but i keep immersing myself in the trove of fanwork that already existed, and i start trying again to make some of my own

- may 29 2019: lion forge comics announces that they are not renewing their license to make more vld comics. that, coupled with the abysmally rated final season, seems to be the nail in the coffin for this iteration of the ip. there won’t be anything else official for vld. somehow, this sparks a renewed interest in me. despite everything, im more dedicated than ever before to preserve and proliferate my good experiences. i know this won’t be a blip in my history as a fan, so i’m determined to be happy with it, as best i can be

- the rest: is, as they say, history. as of now, i have something like 20 fanworks of my own in progress for vld. my ao3 bookmarks number in the 100s, and my to-read list is at over 250. ive made a concerted effort to be more active and engaged in the fandom, because it came so close to fizzling out, for me and maybe for everyone, but it’s brought me so much goodness that i cant and Won’t let that happen, not without a fight

it’s been just under 2 years since i decided to watch voltron on a whim. and it has honestly become a central part of my interests and identity in that time - but for the majority of it, it’s been because of fandom and fanworks, and that’s maybe what made it stick so well to begin with: the creative, varied, amazing parts of it that no network mandate could have offered on its own

this started as a way to catalog my journey into and through vld but honestly it kind of became a love letter to the fandom (at least, my corner of it). that’s what’s made these last years so special - what’s made them simultaneously fly by and feel like a solid constant. a dedicated, talented fan base who are capable of so much more than the constraints of the source material

it’s amazing to look back on, and incredible to keep looking forward to. we’ve all been told - “go, be great”

we have been, and continue to be. like the stars, and like my love for vld, it’s inevitable

so thank you all for the years of “great”. 🖤

[abnormalpsychology]

The Bully (part one)

[HAPPY VALENTINES DAY EVERYONE! Ya boi is excited bc I’m uploading my first-ever fanfic!! @joshua-rush-fanpage I hope you like it! This is part of the Valentines Day Friendom Gift Exchange. I wrote quite a lot more than I expected to, so the tag #myfanfic on here will be where you can find the rest uploaded later today. Sorry about the spacing errors— I originally wrote this in a google doc and Tumblr was being weird when I tried to fix them. I really really hope you like it! The first part is utter shit as a warning but it gets better!!! Hopefully I write more stuff soon, but here’s a little GHC to warm your hearts for now. I can’t believe I’m leaving a long, shitty, Wattpad-ass Author’s Note for the whole world to see but here we fuckin’ are. I also did not think I was the Soulmate AU type, but ALSO here we fuckin’ are. Meme mutuals please don’t think I’m lame I PROMISE IM COOL UwU. Have a lovely day even if you don’t read anything besides my ramblings. Thanks for making a community where I feel brave enough to finally post some writing I’ve worked hard on. I’m very grateful. <3 @swingsetboys Thanks so much for arranging this.]

Kids normally started thinking about their soulmates and deciphering their marks once they got their first crush, but Cyrus Goodman was different. He’d been worried about love all of his life, and the more he thought, the less sense it made. Trusting fate was generally put forward as the best way to deal with soulmate-related issues, at least before you met them, but Cyrus was finding that trusting fate was remarkably more difficult than all of the online articles and books in his parents’ offices made it sound. He wondered sometimes if he maybe was the universe’s first-ever mistake, a legendarily big screw-up, and this was a concern that was difficult to express without simultaneously concerning everyone else around him.

Cyrus’ mark was in what he had decided was the worst possible place it could be— his back. Two solid pitch-black handprints were indented into his skin so he had to twist around in the mirror to even glimpse the peculiar birthmark, like a two-year-old’s art project smushed across his skin or a crude frat party drawing etched on during a hangover was supposed represent his hope for the future and the person he was supposed to love more than anything. He’d always felt weird about it. The question that was tied most to it, the great white whale, the million-dollar-Jeopardy one, was what the situation could possibly be that would cause the mark to light up, to fill with color, when it made contact with his future spouse’s skin.

They’re gonna... push me? It was still, after years of contemplation and stomachaches, the best theory he had. The first way the person he was supposed to find eternal happiness with was by them trying to hurt him. That sure didn’t sound like love to him.

How would he make them angry? What would he do wrong?

The thought was his shadow, and the more he thought about it, the more confused he was. He didn’t want to make them angry, though! He wanted the person he was destined to spend the rest of his days with to like him right off the bat. He wanted the happy ending that everyone got.

“It’s fate,” Buffy had said and shrugged at their final summer sleepover before seventh grade began. “I mean, you can’t do anything to change it, Cy. I’m pretty sure you can’t fool the system by covering it with a tattoo. Since you always try to be as nice as possible anyway, I think you’re doing all you can.”

“Yeah.” He squinted. Maybe I’m just not good enough at being nice.

Buffy rolled her eyes, seeing through his words. “Cyrus. You really need to stop forgetting how cool you are. It’s annoying.”

“Thanks, Buffy, I just hope my soulmate understands my annoying… ness.”

“That was a joke—“

He gasped, shooting up with wide eyes. “What if I annoy them too much and that’s why they push me? What if I’m the one who ruins it?”

“Cyrus, I’m fairly certain that you would never be destined to spend your life with a total jerk. You may be weird, but that’s why soulmates love us, dummy. That’s why we love you.”

The two exchanged a smile, and Buffy reached around to squeeze his hand with her comforting smile.

“You’ll know when you see them anyway, because that’s like the whole thing. So… I don’t know. Maybe the push will be an accident or something. If it helps, I’ll personally remove the toenails if anyone who messes with you.”

“Well, I think,” Andi interjected like the voice of God from above, staring at the pair from her position of power on Cyrus’ couch. “You should stop worrying about something completely inevitable. It’s coming, like it or not.”

The boy let out a yelp and rubbed furiously at the goosebumps blooming on his skinny arms. “You didn’t have to phrase it like that, Andi!”

“Seriously,” Buffy agreed, eyes wide and unfocused. “Yikes.”

“It shouldn’t be scary. You two should really trust yourselves more. Future us will all make good decisions, I’m sure of it. Mostly. Probably.”

She leaned over to look down at her two best friends, reduced to frightened messes at the thought of someone who loved them, and deeply did not understand.

“I trust future Andi, at least. You two are weird.”

She stuck a bookmark made of old newspapers into the John Green book she was skimming, one of Bex’s favorites. She’d explained earlier about how since her older sister would be coming to visit her for the first time in practically forever, she had better know something about what she liked. Although from her various annoyed growls that echoed from above every once in a while, her friends could tell Andi’s tastes maybe differed from the latter’s.

“Real life isn’t that dramatic! Certainly isn’t as dramatic as this Augustus”—she gesticulated to the paperback copy—“thinks it is! What’s even going on in this book?”

She wrinkled her nose in disgust, setting the book down by the lamp.

“Yeah, whatever.” Buffy turned to look doubtfully over her left shoulder at her other best friend, from the spot on the calming maroon carpet where Cyrus was French-braiding her curls. “If you think all this soulmate crap will be totally drama-free, all relaxation and games, Andi, you’re kidding yourself. And it’s middle school.”

“You might want to rethink your position here,” agreed Cyrus, twirling a lock dastardly between his fingers.

A beeping sound came from the kitchen as butter filled the warm air, clashing with the rosy scent of the aromatherapy stuff Celia insisted on spraying everywhere before anyone else entered the house, even though it was just Buffy and Cyrus. They’re very well-behaved, Andi would always say, even though one was now swatting like a kitten at the other. True friendship.

“Stop that! Grow your own facial hair so you can stop using mine!”

“Low blow,” Andi commented.

“Never!” He fell backwards onto the carpet with a grunt as she attacked him with her fringe scarf, smacking her opponent with swift malice. Andi got up to go get their popcorn from the microwave, hopping easily over the destructive swarm of thrashing limbs on her floor.

The two broke apart, close to the door now. Like wrestlers, the kids sprinted to either corner of the room.

“Every time! This is why I don’t let you braid my hair, Cyrus!”

“You underestimate me! Now I have a secret weapon!”

A shadow rushed forward and cackled menacingly, a beautifully stitched pillow in shades of pink and red held aloft to decimate his friend.

“No! Bad Cyrus!” Andi scolded from the kitchen. “I made that for Bex!”

“This isn’t a Western!” Buffy yelled, hands up in surrender. “You aren’t going to tie Andi to the train tracks, no more!”

Cyrus pouted mutely, savoring the power, then conceded mercifully. “Ohhh-kay.”

“Maybe that’s why your soulmate will push you,” Buffy laughed. “You attack them, viciously, in a war of pillows.”

His face fell again, the weight of worry and insecurities returning instantly.

“Dammit.” Buffy sighed. “I’m sorry.”

“It’s fine. Maybe I will... I’d demolish them, anyway.”

The three collapsed onto the couch together once Andi returned, mutely chewing their popcorn, their feathery Cold War forgotten. They could still hear cicadas outside. It didn’t quite feel like school yet, and something about that made the night seem more important, more meaningful, and made them all the more grateful for the other people who they felt like they could tell anything.

“Soulmates are weird to think about, though,” Andi added. “I mean, it’s not something you can teach in school or anything. How one person is made for another. I think it’s pretty crazy. Although I bet Augustus and Hazel would disagree.”

“Yeah, love’s simple until you think about— like— what if they die before you meet them?” Cyrus said, the years’ worth of anxiety seeping into his words. “Assuming it isn’t a fate thing. What if you’re the first one to prove it wrong? Or… you don’t know if you like that type of person?”

“Well,” Buffy chimed in, shrugging. “I mean, people always do, so…”

The trio fell quiet.

“Like soulmates or not, we can agree the marks are freaky as hell?”

“Absolutely.”

“At least you don’t have your mark in as weird a place as me.”

“Buffs, yours is on your hand. That’s not that weird.” Cyrus reached over her back to lightly touch the white splash of color across her right palm, and she jerked it away fast as if she was scared of it going off like a bomb. “High-fives happen all the time.”

“I know, but why would future me let anyone touch my hand? That’s not allowed!” She shivered dramatically. “Ugh. Can you imagine me all… stupid and love-struck? That would be remarkably awful.”

“Middle school,” Cyrus said, nodding sagely. “It changes all who experience it.”

“Well,” Andi whispered, suddenly solemn. “I guess we’ll find out if it changes us too.”

“Guess we gotta trust that the Future Good Hair Trio will make good choices. Soulmates or otherwise.”

The three looked around.

“At least we’ll have each other. No matter who comes, we’ll at least have each other.”

[ibroughtthisonmyselfpixels]

Episode 13 Replies

@sevenleafsimblr replied to your photoset “Lorelei: *shrieks*  *BEEP BEEP BEEP BEEP* Lorelei: *clamps hands over...”

oh Fuck

@jackssims replied to the same:

Oh Shit

@cafesimming replied to the same:

shit

On a scale of Clover to Kaspar, how fucked up are you about the fire

cafesimming replied to your photoset “Kira: “Lilith, what are you doing?! I told you all to evacuate!”  ...”

oh sweetheart me too

Fires can make even the bravest Sims cowards... except Ginerva and Lilith, I suppose - which is weird, as I think the fire extinguisher was autonomous and Lilith isn’t even brave

By the way, did I tell you that there was originally a fire in Episode 10 as well? When I was doing the ‘cupcakes’ method of things, my original plan was to have one team do waffles behind the scenes to correspond with their cupcakes while the other was doing theirs, to map waffles to cupcakes to see who passed muster. However, when Lorelei was trying to get her side to cook the waffles, a fire happened in Ginerva’s oven, and she put it out with an Ice Blast right away. While this didn’t directly lead to the fire in Episode 13 - I wrote the fortunes to correspond with what I’ve played, not the other way around - it did give me the idea to have them and Lilith work together in putting that one out, and thus to build on the ship fuel whether Ginerva stayed or went. 

cafesimming reblogged your photoset “Lavandar: *lying on the ground, trying to get her breath back*  Lorelei: *breathes* *taps hands together* “Nn. Nnn....”

#SOMEONE PLS HELP LAVANDAR ASFJDBD

Victim: Lavandar Ink  Cause of death: sheer force of will

cafesimming replied to your photoset “Ginerva: “Mmm-mmm! What a treat for the senses this thing is. Hey...”

and the pineapples become relevant

were they ever not relevant though

cafesimming replied to your photoset “Lorelei: “The thing is - the thing is, there hasn’t really been a lot...”

lav sweetheart darling... i love you

She wants so badly to get Lorelei’s approval. So Badly

jackssims replied to your photoset “Ginerva: “So, how’s that little change of pace working out for you so...”

Ginvera: Resident MMBC Analyst

Someone has to be the Fatin, and who better than the one who took Fatin

*Ginerva. My b, the gays cannot type

Don’t feel too bad - I’ve had to stop myself calling her Ginevra sometimes

jackssims replied to your photoset “Ginerva: “Oh, now what? I swear, if it’s more of those telemarketers,...”

I mean, those chances are high when you're talking over your bacheloret

Lyra proved prescient

cafesimming replied to your photoset “Lorelei: “I, um… I still can’t believe that- the - the fire happened?”...”

i just laughed out loud at lor's "w-what?" so good job dub ((not sarcasm))

I Love Lorelei so much, but she doesn’t know how to meme. Lyra is probably more up with the memes than her

sevenleafsimblr replied to your photoset “Lavandar: “No, given the situation I’m being such an idiot. I asked...”

😭

😭

cafesimming reblogged your photoset and added:

💜 #MY BRAVE PRINCESS

she is so pure sometimes

cafesimming replied to your photoset “Lorelei: “…Kira. Can you come up, please?” Ginerva: *sucks in a cold...”

aw no ginerva is my fave after lav on lorelei's side

They really are a testament to how much thought Clover puts into things, huh? Then again, all of you put so much thought and effort into everything you make and do

sevenleafsimblr replied to your photoset “Lorelei: *gulps*  Ginerva: “…Don’t, Lorelei. I’ll save you the trouble...”

I Had A Feeling

OOOOOOH ooooooooh that tonight’s gonna be a good ni*bricked*

cafesimming replied to your photoset “Lorelei: “…I’m not polyamorous, Ginerva. I never have been, and I - I...”

ginerva and lilith is the purest contestant ship since shady tbh

sevenleafsimblr replied to your photoset “Ginerva: “Thing is, I really… really, really,” *clenches fist* “really...”

aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaAAAaaa

cafesimming replied to the same:

this is mega gay and im so here for it

sevenleafsimblr replied to your photoset “Ginerva: “I don’t know. That’s what’s scary about this, I don’t know....”

AAaAAAAAaaaaaAAAAaAAAaAAAAaAAAA

@tosimornottosim replied to the same:

G a y

All shippers to the deck! All shippers report to the deck immediately!! 

sevenleafsimblr replied to your post “Episode 13: String Quartet Credits”

ok i was Terrified that this episode was gonna suddenly switch moods and go from bittersweet normal elimination to ginerva being the one on lorelei's side to die 

Next time: Ginerva ends up dying by complete accident in a way that the MMBC did nothing to instigate. Lorelei weeps. [redacted] is bewildered

BUT that aside thank you for having her!!! you totally did do them justice

I’m so glad! I didn’t want to make her one-note, but at the same time I do know how important Delano was to them, and I’m glad you think I was able to keep that balance

cafesimming replied to the same:

lorelei Actually complimented lav on her braveness im gonna cry i lov them so much

It’s like Lorelei knows intuitively what a fucked-up life Lavandar has led, and is doing all she can to soothe things and build her self-esteem back up bit by bit, just as a real companion would do

sevenleafsimblr reblogged your photoset and added:

I LOVE THEM…….

I KNOW LORELEI MAKES SUCH GOOD BABIES

#also delano jr im 😭😭

jackssims replied to the same:

Delano Jr has me fucked up

yeah, he really needs to shave his pink moustache once he gets in your game /teasinglyfacetious

Now to finish off Episode 14, as I have five posts to go on that score. It’ll be the last work I complete on this laptop, jsyk; I have a new one coming in later today. Fingers crossed, it should be enough to hold the Saving Grace save with much more aplomb - and maybe even...

[survivorreelsmagicwithin]

Episode 1B - “I'm praying to Yoncé I survive and don't get first boot.”-Jess

no words.

LITERALLY

NO WORDS.

Two points. TWO FUCKING POINTS.

I'm praying to Yoncé I survive and don't get first foot. That ain't a cute look xoxox

i'm already forgetting to search for the idols, i'm already getting paranoid about if i need to start making alliances instead of just enjoying the really cute convos i'm having with ruthie lily and kevin (max is kinda dry and annoying but... we'll try to make it work ig).... and i'm already hating every challenge we do especially this one although i actually really liked the challenge it was so creative and fun, i just hated that i have bad luck and am stupid with the deduction things, HENCE why i havent looked for the idol yet. LOL. so.... tl;dr - things are going perfectly! this hufflepuffle is workin exactly as he should!

I just wanna say we really are the hufflepuffs. 114 moves in like 5 hours, but we did it.  Really proud of Ruthie, Landen, Kevin, Max, and I! Sending positive vibes to slytherin. Hope they are okay in this madness.

Yo my tribe? Kinda dope. I think that everyone worked really well together today! I think Joanna kinda took the lead and some of her ideas were... a choice. But! It got us first place! I think that this tribe has a good shot of getting to swap unscathed.

With Slytherin going to tribal, I really hope that someone I don’t know goes, but at the same time I’d be okay with Jess going? I feel like she’s such a sleeper threat in most games I’m in with her and I really just don’t want to compete with that this time around.

I kind of snapped and got myself an idol good until final 6 teehee.

I knew that the Snape's letter or writing or whatever that freak was up to was SOMETHING. Did I get lucky... hell fucking yeah.

A crackhead like me SHOULD NOT have all this POWER.

I also gave Jacob literally the worst clue ever because we are sharing clues ladies xoxoxo

The clue was:

"Snape is taken aback. “That wouldn’t be any business of yours now would it? I wouldn’t want to find out you are spreading false information. I trust you won’t have any issue with that”. Congrats! You’ve discovered Snape Storyline 2! That’s all for the moment, and will end your search for this round."

BOTH ARE HALF TRUE. Just in case he doesn't put 2 and 2 together and now I went from place to place on purpose. He's gonna think now I gave him something of value and I know he's gonna think "No way someone go an idol on day fucking 3".

CONFESSIONAL 1.1 — Walking into the Great Hall, I saw a few familiar faces... for not good reasons!

First Jacob, who I know from tengaged. He and I were in a similar friend group for a short period before he left it, but we had a rocky relationship. We flirted a bit (blame 16-year-old Nicholas), but that is in the past.

Secondly, Jess... who I just directly sent home in Eve’s The Challenge: Fresh Meat. She did not have great words to say to me (such as I’m condescending), so I was very wary and, honestly, unhappy with her being here.

But, as Kylie Minogue says, it’s better the devil you know.

Flash forward to the Sorting Ceremony, and I’m so happy to be.. Slytherin? I told Mister Vintage (Sammy) and Mister Heinen (Caeleb) that I’m either a Ravenclaw or Hufflepuff, but I suppose I’ve been lying to myself.

Then, I see my tribe: both Jess and Jacob are present. This is a curse wrapped in a blessing wrapped in an enigma. And, I love it.

I hate, hate, hate conflict and bad vibes, so I directly spoke to both. Jacob did not easily recognize me, but remembered me fondly; so, a successful reacquaintance. Jess, on the other hand, was definitely more apprehensive (as was I), but I made one thing clear: the past is the past, and I am declaring my loyalty.

I have been hurt in previous games by shoving the past aside while the other is still grudgingly aiming for revenge, but I feel Jess is different. She apologized to me about her words, which did hurt, and I apologized to her. What I said was honest, so I’m glad to see a fateful blossoming.

The first reward challenge is revealed, and honestly, I’m really bad at participating in pre-merge competitions, because I do not mind tribal. However, I do want to, since we are such a small tribe, focus on maintaining our numbers in case of a swap. We came in second this reward, and honestly, I’m glad to have eaten cupcakes (although I hate cherry). The fact we all chose a dessert and were privately messaged makes me assume someone received an advantage, but who knows...

What I DO know is that I had two separate relationships, so I wanted to lock a trio down (Me, Jess, Jacob), but I obviously did not want to gamebot this early and make the chat day one. So, naturally, i waited until after immunity.

Speaking of immunity... I took charge, because I like it, but also, I wanted to be able to take blame if we lost. I hate the whole “let’s vote someone out cuz they cost us a virtual challenge” this early in the game, it’s a cheap way to vote. I want to vote on loyalty and activity instead. That’s why I am probably going to target Jessie or Vi, but I‘m unsure as to which will be my vote. On one hand, Vi is much less social, but she also contributed a lot to the challenge. I do not want to judge a book by it’s cover, so I will reach out to her and assess her vibe.

I like going to tribal first, because my philosophy is that it’s better to test loyalties now, rather than guess loyalties later.

Regarding other players, Jules and Juls just played in a mini with me and sheeped the majority alliance to screw me over, so I’m not feeling them right now. Bitterness doesn’t exist in my mind: play well and I respect it; sheep and be stupid, and I will gladly dish out the karma. 

I’m satisfied with the happenings of this game so far, and I hope to make it further!! This is one of my first real orgs so, I’m em definitely excited. x. nick

Yay we won immunity. Raffy do be carrying our tribe though!

WELL WELL WELL!!!!!!! as far as my relationships go which is where i left off last round, really nothing much has changed about how i feel about or view my tribemates, but in exciting news... we won immunity!! i am not going to be first boot that is so nice, and im hoping that we can keep winning immunity until a swap so I can feel more secure. I think I could stand a shot if we lost on this tribe but i think if so the vote would split 3-2 i dont think i can get a unanimous vote on anyone unless its myself which is NOT WHAT WERE TRYNA DO HERE !! if anything i feel like i have the best chance to wiggle myself in with the girls (lily and ruthie) Max would probably be my ideal first vote if we ever lose an immunity because I know landen can be useful in challenges, but he YET AGAIN addressed me with a name that does not sit well with me he called me a "challengewhore" yet another reference to TS 2020, so this is not a good sign. Ideally I could get landen out and still be set but i know he has a relationship with juls who i also have a relationship with and wish to continue to have in this game, and us going against each other could make that more stressful than it needs to be because i know landen avenged beck for voting juls out maybe juls would do the same for him? Much to think about, but thankfully i dont have to think about it all that hard because yet again we ARE SAFE !!! woo, anyways thats pretty much it hopefully we can keep winning :D

Ahhhh safety feels so nice, I’m glad that I’m not in danger of being the first boot. Also I love the fact that ravenclaw won the first challenge with so little moves HAHA!

I want to go far in this thing with lily and with kevin, my goal right now is to get to merge and owen be alive so I can work with him!

I am very happy to have won this immunity challenge. We barely won, but I managed to pull my tribe to a victory. Emphasis on the "I" part. I am very frustrated with my tribe's lack of challenge activeness and ability. If the time did not work for them, then I do not know why they even suggested doing it at 2 PM. This challenge would have gone faster if I had done everything myself. In the end, though, I hope this helps in me staying in the game because I am a necessity if they want to ever win a challenge in first place. I highly doubt that they could do it without me.

So I’m currently writing this with one hand because my cat decided to lie on my other one  anyways Nobody is really talking about the vote which means it’s probably me going but I’ll see what I can do to change that

Here's a breakdown of my first few experiences since I am writing this a few hours before the first tribal council.

FIRST I was cast in this game along with a BUNCH of people that are icons across different formats of Tumblr Survivor - so that's intimidating. Mostly because my play style is kinda vanilla in comparison. I gotta find a way to stand out or I'm going to be thrown out fast.

SECOND There's a twist that will probably have some major effect at some later point in the game where everyone is added to the Great Hall. I think that it's for convenience of posting things like results and challenges so it only has to be sent to one chat... but also so that we can feel THEMATIC which is a lot of fun.

The game started in the Great Hall and we got sorted into our houses and the implication was that it's random but.. I don't think it's entirely true if I can read into what the hosts said to me once I was sorted into Gryffindor (something about running out of room in Hufflepuff) - because I definitely didn't say Gryffindor in my application.

THIRD My tribe has the following people: Joshua, Juls, Raffy, Autumn, and myself. 

I do not know how many of theme said Gryffindor when they applied but also did not want to bring it up to them as I am masquerading as a brave idiot. :D

Anyway, I started conversations with all of them and they all seem very sweet!!

I've played in a game before with Raffy where he was super snakey but also a great ally until he tried to snake me. So there's that... he's also an "over the top" type of person so he takes charge a lot of the time and voices his opinions about everything. I hope we can create some sort of working relationship in the game, but I think that he will tell me the truth if he does align against me.

Autumn is super chill and super strategic-minded. She puts lots of thought into all of her decisions and makes calls that benefit her getting to the end while trying to align with the right people. If I can't get to the FTC of this game... TBH I want to make sure she gets there. I played with her in one game and we both were tossed out one after another when the game turned on our "side". I don't think that relationship will factor into this game as it was forever ago and we both kinda play "new" every time we start a game but I'm hoping she will want to try and play with me just because I've seen how great she is at the game.

Juls is a very fun person who seems to always be having a great time! I found out she lives in Texas too and that she was excited to get to know me because we are from the same state. I was like.. do I know you? Because when she messaged me the way she did implied that she knew who I was and I was thinking OH NO what have people said.

Joshua seems really sweet. He hasn't added incredibly much to conversations so far with him but he has contributed some fun things. I love that he tries to be entertaining, but as I see it so far he's the first person I'd be willing to vote out if it came to our tribe going to council... though of course, having said that I bet they've all declared me their first choice.

FOURTH The reward challenge was the Letter plus Number challenge so as predicted...

I did terribly and earned 0 points for our tribe and was SO happy it was not for immunity.

The immunity challenge was a Choose Your Own Adventure Puzzle.

We got a slow start in that I feel like everyone was afraid to make a move because that would put a target on whoever "failed for the team". Then me and Raffy kind of got things rolling with him taking the main leader role and me taking on a secondary role either agreeing with his suggestions or contributing a suggestion for what we should do.

There was a misunderstanding with the competition and we ended up making a whole bunch of extra moves because it was unclear to us that the letters we found at a later part of the challenge were able to be changed into numbers at a lockbox so we did a bunch of extra stuff... and I was resigned to the fact we were going to the first tribal when we go surprised that Slytherin... DID WORSE!!! O_O

Anyway... I still have no alliances or confirmed "working game" relationships and I really don't feel like starting those conversations at the moment so if I am out of the ones established or on the bottom of one that will add me to "pick me up" for later votes then I blame myself for not trying hard enough in that category.

FIFTH I definitely didn't just now search for the idol and waste two days that I could have searched other times. Nope! Not me!! :)

Anyway I went on a trip to Hagrid's Hut because I love me some Hagrid and I figured he'd let me in since I"m a Gryffindor and he loves us the best (you know, like a reverse Snape)... I dug through all of his junk and found his umbrella. Apparently I liked that it was pink and then left his hut. 

To be honest, I probably should have taken his dragon's egg and turned him in... maybe could have gotten him fired.

Someone finally got me to come out of retirement- can you believe it

It's been cute so far and I have no complaints, probably cause the hosts wisely put me, Owen, and Dan in separate corners lmao. Yooo if we all make it to merge?? Hell hath no fury. But we will cross that bridge when we get there! And for now I enjoy the calm before the storm. I deadass forgot how to be an org so I need all the time I can get to socialize and reacclimate. Me checking Skype more than once a year? Don't remember ever doing that. I love Raffy, it's always good to see Chips, I think I like Juls, and I'm not sure how I feel about Joshua but it's fine. I like Gryffindor cause we have no beef and I hope it stays that way.

ok so my tribe lost :( big sad. but im def ok bc jess is soooo close to me and we made a threesome with nick so. i think jessie is an easy first boot bc shes not around as much as vi. but really its our decision at the end of the day!

here’s the hot goss.. i’m a little upset i didn’t get anyone i Know on my house/tribe but also grateful HSBSNSNN all i know is that so far i’ve been doing pretty solid in securing relationships with those on my team (at least.. i hope so :flushed:) and i’m hoping they all like me hehe. kinda praying to just mist my way to merge where i can be united with people who like me enough to keep me around still.. >:D 

[pinksweatergettingbetter]

warning, the following has mainly snarky (and possibly furious) opinions on Spirit of Justice. Reader discretion is advised.

Okay folks. this is it. part 1 of the final chapter

here we go.

-

trial day 2?? oh yeah i forgot they split this game up in the worst, uneven way possible 

-

wow that cutscene was

something alright

-

wow datz actually managed to hold onto the snow globe. kudos?

-

what the fuck

i think i heard it wrong but Dhurke’s objection sounds like an old man 

I'm pretty sure i heard it wrong 

missed the bass

-

who was that no– oh Garananana

i guess she's gonna be the final boss instead huh

- 

im so tired i cant even snark properly 

-

“is that kosher?”

i like it

-

oh god

what.... what is she wearing 

i mean

fuckin

TALK about madonna-whore complex. oh yeah, time to turn super evil?? bear your midriff! show off dem tiddies! 

look, SOJ. theres only one bad bitch in ace attorney who can pull off floaty tendril hair, and its NOT ga’ran.

i cant believe i have to look at this train wreck for the rest of the trial

-

“heh heh heh. its all coming back now. the feel of my blood pumping through my veins”

this is perhaps because youre actually moving now, your eminence.

-

can we just dispense with the trial and have a good old fashioned anime fight? cmon apollo, spike up that hair and grab your BFS. 

-

“meep”

WHATS WITH THE MEEPING

BONNY DID THAT TOO

SOJ ITS 2016 ...ACTUALLY ITS 2028 YOU HOLES

-

everyone in the court: :O what??? whats wrong with rayfa??? why is she sad???

oh i dunno maybe because her fucking Father just got brutally murdered?? maybe??

what the fuck is up with SOJ characters being dumb as a bag of bricks when it comes to other peoples’ feelings regarding death of loved ones???

-

phoenix: shits fucked, thats why?? apollo: OHHHHHHHHHHHHH

-

“seems like she's worse off today than she was yesterday”

hey game you'd better not be implying any shit 

-

“discipline”

soj

-

alright, back after another longass break. i can do this.

( That’s oddly compassionate of him, all things considered )

I was about to defend Nahyuta because what kind of person wouldn’t try to spare a child from witnessing that kind of trauma... but then again, this is the Sadmad who purposefully tried to trigger someone into losing a trial so

(shrug emoji)

-

grana’s gone into full HORHORHOR BITCH MODE 

partially I'm totally numb because i dont have any stakes in her newfound ebilness, and partially I'm tired of this weird new trend of child abuse in the new games 

- 

“Barbed head.”

oh my god 

the first person she goes to after realizing that her caretaker is gone is fucking Phoenix 

im gonna cry 

“ive been reduced to “royal robe remover”” NO NICK YOU’VE BEEN UPGRADED TO DAD BY SOMEONE WHO’S NOT YOU

( ‘It’s like she’s grooming Mr. Wright to be Nayna’s replacement’) 

I know this game is all about confusing bullshit for heartwarming moments and vice versa but guys 

good lord

my heart

i really needed that 

-

(sigh) they really couldn’t get someone who sounded like a fucking 14 year old to do her voice?? really???

-

rayfa: (looks like she's going to die and collapses)

apollo: this is not good...

gee apollo you really think so? 

-

wait a fuking second 

we went through the whole dance cutscene and we’re not even going to see the pool??? does that mean the priestess has to be conscious and present for the images to be visible? ...and how does that work, anyway? 

i just realized, a medium could use a pool to see the dead, but how the hell could they project it for others to see?? does she literally open a portal to hell???

(sigh) i just regret sitting through that cutscene again

-

“cabal of traitorous lawyers”

i love that

-

(Seriously Dhurke? This is no laughing matter.)

this basically sums up Dhurke’s entire personality 

...yknow, i know what they were trying to do with his character– i really do. i know he’s supposed to come off as a dashing, cavalier rebel who laughs in the face of danger. 

but they overshot endearingly irreverent and ploughed straight into fuckwaddome. if you want a character to be charming, they need softer moments too. Dhurke isn’t a bad person, but he’s kind of an asshole when you get right down to it, and nothing so far is proving otherwise. 

-

ok ive heard Dhurke’s Objection again and it doesn't sound like an old man– it just sounds about as overblown and ridiculous as Manfred von Karma’s (not to mention about as deep)

-

LET DHURKE SAY BITCH

... i guess

-

another perfect example of Dhurke being kind of a fuckwad: he keeps needling the queen and baiting her in ways that could get himself killed, which would be all fine and dandy if he were the brave resistance leader being tortured for information in the bowels of a dungeon.

...but here’s the thing.

IF YOU DIE, DHURKE, APOLLO AND PHOENIX DIE TOO. DID YOU FORGET ABOUT THE GODDAMN DC ACT? ITS NOT JUST YOUR DEAD ASS ON THE LINE HERE SO SHUT YOUR SASSY TRAP AND THINK ABOUT SOMETHING OTHER THAN YOUR *AMAZING WIT* FOR ONCE.

you’ve got 2 extra lives on the line here.

...3 if my suspicions are correct.

-

stop calling him son please you abandoned him in an orphanage and didnt contact him for 14 years.

...and if he can’t call you ‘dad’ you have no right to call him ‘son’

-

coming back to this after ghost trick has convinced me that one of ga’ran’s lackeys miiiiiight be related to Cabanela, baby

-

“Wright... I can see we are kindred spirits, you and I! Hah-ha ha ha ha ha!!”

NO

NO 

NO

NO

FUCK YOU DHURKE 

-

“It’s pretty easy to spot the difference between a soulless man and the soulless shell of a man”

ok that did get a laugh out of me, good job dhurke.

-

apollo: pls dont get us killed dhurke: mmmm ok ill try but I'm not promising anything lol

://///

-

“But remember, son, if you truly believe in me, you should be able to prove my innocence.”

do i even have to list how many reasons thats wrong and a shitty thing to say

-

“Such Insolence”

You’ve been beat out, Not So Fast

-

Ga’ran used Gust!

Apollo flinched and couldn’t move!

-

“I could behead you at any time”

she's got a point; she’s a fucking despot, there’s no reason to actually hold a trial. i mean i guess she wants to shut up the rebels but just killing them would be a lot easier and its not like she has any qualms about murder

-

“Aw shoot, ya got me.”

again, not an appropriate reaction for whats going on buddy

-

lol get fucked kjudge

-

DGFUFUS OH COOL

WE GOT GUILTY (excited cheers from the audience)

the applause and the shots of everyone with :O faces is making me feel like i just won a gameshow 

wheres my cheesy jingle 

-

also i love how Dhurke’s like “oh shit!! my assholishness has directly resulted in my son’s death!!! did NOT see that coming!!!!!!!!!”

-

again the sound mixing is drowning out the background music (sigh)

-

“your benevolence? I’d be happy to lend an ear if you’d like to talk!”

>this is it, this is why he leaves the series guys. Apollo is too good for these sinful games.

-

DAMNIT DHURKE, YOUR SHIT MOUTH IS RUBBING OFF ON YOUR SON

-

hmm

we’ve got an april may here

-

“Rayfa, I shall buy you a new servant”

so Kooraheen practices slavery..? I mean, she.... she said ‘buy’, not hire.

-

“she would have left shoeprints”

do

do you know what evaporation is your malevolence 

-

wait wait wait

that doesn't make any sense 

the only prints leading out are from Inga, but the prints inside the building are from Nayna? how did she avoid leaving prints leading inside, then?? did she just long-jump over the dirt path???

-

the guards are not fanboying, apollo, they’re toadying. there’s a difference.

-

apollo: maybe the place he was stabbed and the place he died were different 

(the game only continues after you carefully explain what dying of blood loss is three years later)

-

to be completely fair, there are actually stories of people who were unaware of being stabbed 

furthermore, when you get stabbed, you’re not going to be the most rational human being on earth. 

phoenix, don’t give sadmad that point, especially when he’s currently assaulting your protege 

now, as i was saying, Apollo’s suggestion that Inga was stabbed in the back and then ran into the temple is perfectly plausible; running to shelter from an attacker is probably the first thing you’d want to do when injured, and the tomb was a pretty safe place, i’d wager. 

tbh i really don’t know why they’re arguing about him feeling the pain as that wouldn’t really impair his movement considering he was stabbed in a place that wouldn’t affect his ability to walk???

but yeah apparently he was doped up to shit so 

-

...i highly doubt back pain medication is strong enough to negate a stab wound. on the other hand, if it is and your back pain is THAT intense, Inga, you need to see a fucking doctor pronto.

...yeah shots straight into the spine is one step away from surgery; not to be an asshole but I'm not sure Inga was doing so well anyway before he went 

-

huh. are they really gonna give us an actual choosable choice to abandon Dhurke and save our own skin? Cause that would be interesting; a lot like the old games where you could “”choose”” to defend a client or not.

to be clear here, though, i wouldn't choose “no” even as much as i dislike dhurke. we know (sigh) that he’s innocent, and even if i dont like him it’s our duty to defend his shitty ass

OH HOLY FUCK

THERES THE CHOICE

wow. y’know SOJ, i dont much like you, but you fuckin Did That. well done.

also thank you for the Justice pun it is much appreciated.

-

“And while I can’t say I’m used to it, this isn’t exactly my first rodeo”

FWHAT

>game flashes back to the Ahlbi case

DSKJFLS THIS IS LITERALLY THE “at second rodeo: this isn't my first rodeo” POST

-

YES OK WE’VE SEEN THIS CUTSCENE TWICE NOW ALREADY

WE GET IT, RAYFAS GOT COLD FEET ABOUT BEING QUEEN

MAYAS IN THE GAME 

OK

-

phoenix: allow me to mansplain how rayfa is feeling despite how fucking obvious it is. after all, we know our players have the mental and emotional capacity of goldfish!

oh hey mansplain is a legit word in the dictionary 

cool!

-

why are they building this up?? just fucking tell Rayfa to do her stupid dance again and get on with it; we already did this at the beginning of the trial 

-

“Hmm... Indeed. It would be problematic.”

ohohoooohohohhhihgjhgo

-

oh her nails are actually tiny pen 

thats neat 

thank goodness Kooraheeneese is an up-and-down written language– otherwise they’d have to make a whole new animation for the english game teehee

-

“....................But... Horn Head needs my help”

oh my heart

-

dan she just straight up begone’d her 

-

see the one thing that falls flat here is that, during a regular trial, the prosecution saying “oh, ok, have it your way; you can try to prove your theory” holds up a little more since they... you know. don’t have absolute power.

where as, with Garananana, its more like she's just a huge posturing pushover. especially since every other minute she's saying “ok, I'm gonna kill you for REAL now.”

-

rayfa: b but if i fail you'll be killed!!! i dont get it...

apollo: i literally just finished explaining that I'm 100% ready to die for my shitty job that was like 5 minutes ago

it is sweet to see that he’s cheering her on though. good big bro 

-

I'm finding small solace in this beautiful moment of “your foreign dad and bro are here for you babe reach for the stars”

Athena’s probably flashing a double thumbs up from the gallery too

-

“But... I finally know now. I know in what I can trust”

Bobby, from the afterlife: YOU’RE DOING AMAZING SWEETIE 

-

Garan: What??? my tiny 14 year old daughter is going to do a thing i don’t want her to??? fuck there’s no way i can shut her up. not even with all of my large adult man guards who could easily just escort her out of the courtroom without any resistance because they’re my fucking royal guards and I'm the Queen

-

oh shit she took off her own cape

im so glad i muted the game so her awful voice actress couldn’t ruin this cool moment

-

and now as this long ass cutscene plays out again, i simply cannot help but wonder about the poor choir and how long they’ve been on standby 

where do they keep the choir during trials 

whats it like singing the dance of devotion song every trial 

-

oh finally here we go. alright, lets see what the magic party pool has in store for us this time 

...o ...ok then

-

OH! OH SHIT 

Inga’s face blind?!

Y’know I did have a few thoughts about that when we discovered his notebook but I didn’t think they’d actually go that route... though, thinking about it now, it is pretty convenient.

...ok everyone’s freaking out. maybe they’ve never heard of face-blindness? ...or maybe its not face blindness after all

im pretty sure it is though

-

i dont know why but everyone being like FUCK ITS GOD and phoenix being like “whoops shits trippy now” made me laugh pretty hard

-

ok i gotta say I'm actually a little invested now, even if its just because i think face-blindness is an interesting thing to incorporate into a murder case. again, a convenient thing, but an interesting thing all the same.

-

ahh fuck i keep forgetting how the stupid seance works 

welp, there goes one of my souls... (sigh)

-

..apollo you dont need to show her the picture of her dead father to say “he had a cell phone”.

-

the voice was coming from INSIDE THE PHONE 

-

RAYFA HAS A PET FROG????

WHAT

SHOW US THE FROG SOJ

SHOW US THE FROG! SHOW US THE FROG! SHOW US THE FROG! 

-

...why would Rayfa interpret the sound of the warbaa’d (something she’s familiar with) with a lion’s roar (something she’s unfamiliar with) ??

-

oh i see thats why Vore Machine is an idiot 

for plot convenience 

-

Datz Are’bal, a man who throws fire crackers at children.

...sounds like an are’bal guy.

bahdum-tshh

-

“The joker who got a kick out of startling Ahlbi with his Dragon Snot Snaps”

...something tells me that if Datz found out about Youtube, he’d be one of those “””prank””” channels.

also WHY ARE THEY CALLED SNOT SNAPS

WHAT DOES THAT MEAN

-

“happy-go-lucky”

i think you mean vaguely sociopathic

-

(sigh) ive finally been worn down to the point where i need a walkthrough. ive... been beaten...

-

boy ahlbi’s just a font of knowledge isn't he 

-

DID SHE JUST BREAK HER NAILS OFF

PLEASE SAY THOSE WERE STICK ONS

HOL SHIT

-

MMMM LAY IT ON ME NICK

face blindness 

... i mean theyre not calling it that but thats what it is 

-

yeah yeah channeling blah blah come on! youre in the LAND of channeling !

-

shduhjahdjk

I'm picturing Inga running into his own dead body and flipping his shit 

-

oh man. thats the end of Trail 2 part 1.

guess i’ll see you guys on the other side... heheh. 

[percywinchester27]

Ana’s PJO quotes Challenge

Guess who came up with a challenge? That’s right! Your little fangirl over here presents her very first challenge, with prompts based on quotes from Rick Riordan’s books (Mostly PJO).

For those who have read the books, y’all know how hilarious the prompts can be. For those who haven’t, take a look at the prompts anyway! They might interest you :)

ALSO I have NO IDEA how these prompts fit in so well with SPN-verse. It had me baffled too. Trust me!

Rules:

You don’t have to be following me, but it would be nice :)

The due date is December 10th. If you wanna pull out, or need an extension, please let me know a week before. I know life can get really unpredictable, so we can work it out.

The minimum word count is 500 words, and maximum is 7k.

Please use a “keep reading” option after the first 500 words or so. I insist upon this.

It has to be a reader insert or a general fic. You can write for both characters as well as RPF (J2M only and No wife hate). It can be canon or it can be an AU.

You can write a fluffy, angsty or even smutty fic should the prompt inspire you, but please try not to make it a super detailed PWP fic, it’s just not my thing.

It can be a one shot, drabble or start of a series only.

Mention in the Author's note that it is for my (@percywinchester27) “Ana’s PJO quotes Challenge” and the prompt you’ve chosen. Use the hashtag #Ana’s PJO quotes Challenge in the first 5 tags so I can track it.

If I don’t like the post within 2 days, please IM me a link. Tumblr likes to be mean sometimes and there’s every chance that I didn’t get the tag.

Only one prompt per person. If you’ve already posted one entry, you can come back for another prompt.

Lastly, HAVE FUN!!

Send an Ask stating the prompt number and a backup in case the first one is taken along with the pairing.

Full prompt list below the cut:

Dialogue Prompts (Only the pronouns can be tweaked in the prompts):

“Don't feel bad, I'm usually about to die.” @deanxfuckingadorablexwinchester Dean X Reader

“We're staying together," he promised. "You're not getting away from me. Never again.” @bringmesomepie56 Dean X Reader

“Lots of death, huh? Personally, I'm trying to avoid lots of death, but you guys have fun!” @luci-in-trenchcoats Dean X Reader

“Ever had a flying burrito hit you? Well, it's a deadly projectile, right up there with cannonballs and grenades.” @jessicawritessmut Jensen x reader

“I try not to think. It interferes with being nuts” @homeschooledonmyhands sister!reader

He forced his fists to unclench. "Look, lady, we're not going to go all Hunger Games on each other. Isn't going to happen.” @melonshino dean x reader

“Being a hero doesn’t mean you’re invincible. It just means that you’re brave enough to stand up and do what’s needed.” @nichelle-my-belle Dean X Reader

“Sugar and caffeine. My willpower crumbled.” @queencflair Dean X Reader

“Scrawny? Baby, I invented scrawny. Scrawny is the new sizzling hot.” @avengingandstuff   Steve Rogers X Reader

“Back in my day, we died all the time, and we liked it!” @drarina1737

“Catch that last episode of Doctor Who? Oh, right. You were trudging through the Pit of Eternal Damnation!” @dauntlessdiva Dean X Reader

“You can't choose your parentage. But you can choose your legacy.” @percussiongirl2017 sister!reader/ platonic!reader

“Everyone hates clowns," ------ said. "Even other clowns hate clowns.” @growningupgeek Sam X Reader

“You, sir, are a ray of sunshine. @deansdirtylittlesecretsblog Dean X Reader

“I wake up every morning and think: You know what would be good today? Not dying.” @roxyspearing Dean X Reader

“Don't you ever feel that way? Like you could do a better job if you ran the world?''Um... no. Me running the world would be kind of a nightmare.” @rizlow1 Dean X Reader

“I know, I'm an idiot!" he moaned. "A brilliant idiot, but still an idiot.”  @anticipate1003 gen fic

“That's what happens when it snows in Texas lady. It. Freaking. Melts.” @evil-spn-girl Jared X Reader

“Decapitation is not a healthy lifestyle choice.” @justanotherdeangirl Dean X Reader

“How come I never get invited on these violent trips?” @uniquewerewolfsuit Jared X Reader

“She didn’t want to sleep, but her body betrayed her. Her eyelids turned to lead. “Hey, wake me for second watch. Don’t be a hero.”He gave her that smirk she’d come to love. “Who, me?”He kissed her, his lips parched and feverishly warm. “Sleep.” @torn-and-frayed Dean X Reader

“I gave her my deluxe I'll-Kill-You-Later stare.” @jayankles Jensen x reader

“You drool when you sleep.” @captainemwinchester Dean X reader

“Delaying death is one of my favorite hobbies” @boxywrites Alpha!Dean X Omega!Reader

“What about a compromise? I’ll kill them first, and if it turns out they were friendly, I’ll apologize.”  @jerk-bitch-and-an-angel Dean X reader

“Daddy will explain. Come, he is blowing up monsters.” @sea040561 Misha X Reader

“We'll have to work on your bunny phobia later.” @crispychrissy Dean X Reader

“Life is only precious because it ends, kid.” @summer-binging-spn  Dean X Reader

“Met them. Killed them. Got the T-shirt.”  @internationalfandomgirl  Sam X Reader

“The thing about plummetting downhill at fifty miles an hour on a snack platter - if you realize it's a bad idea when you're halfway down, it's too late.”  @iputthesininbuisness  Dean X Reader

“We’ve all got weaknesses. Me, for instance. I’m tragically funny and good-looking.” @imaginesforthose-wholovefandoms Dean X Reader

“I hate this plan,” I said. “Let’s do it.” @plaidstiel-wormstache Dean X Reader

“If I'm dead," he murmured. "Why does it hurt so much?” @grace-for-sale

“Oh, did you expect me to play fair?" Cupid laughed. "I am the god of love. I am never fair.” @mysupernaturalfics Dean X Reader

“With great power... comes need to take a nap. Wake me up later” @winchesterprincessbride Sam X Reader

“I try very hard to be annoying. Don’t insult my ability to annoy.” @captainradicalpassion Dean x Reader

“I won't go looking for trouble. I usually don't have too.” @deanssweatheart23  Dean X Reader

“I tried to think of something to say. Excuse me? Hello? Marry me? Anything would have done.” @thing-you-do-with-that-thing Jensen X Reader

“Clearly, the conversation is giving your two brain cells a serious workout.” @winchester-smut dean X reader

“I've seen a lot of brave things. But what you just did? That was maybe the bravest.” @supernatural-jackles Dean/ Jensen X Reader

Sentence prompts (If you wanna use these as dialogue prompt, go ahead! But you can’t tweak them except the pronouns):

41. It's hard to enjoy practical jokes when your whole life feels like one. @imweirdandobsessed Sam X Reader

42. Far, far below, red liquid bubbled. Blood? Lava? Evil ketchup? None of the possibilities were good. @sdavid09  Gabriel x Reader

43. When she kissed me, I had the feeling my brain was melting right through my body. @samwinjarpad Sam X Reader

44. She'd secretly had a crush on him since they were twelve years old. Last summer, she'd fallen for him hard. @secretlyfurrydragon Jensen X Reader AU

45. She grabbed his face and pulled him into a kiss, which effectively shut him up. @darcy-winters Dean X Reader

46. I gave the dwarves an arrogant look, like, Yeah, that’s right. I’ve got a talking disco sword and you don’t. @sdavid09 

47. The plan had three phases: dangerous, really dangerous and insanely dangerous.   @thebitterbookeater Peter Parker X Reader

48. Her hair is smoldering. Her face was smudged with soot. She had a cut on her arms, her dress was torn, and she was missing a boot. Beautiful.  @docharleythegeekqueen  Dean X Reader

49. Humor was a good way to hide the pain. @kas-not-cas Dean X Reader 

50. Myths are simply stories about truths we've forgotten. @justme-noonebutme

51. It was a crazy idea. But, as usual, that’s all he had. @acreativelydifferentlove  Dean X Reader

52. “It's okay,” he said. “We're together.” He didn't say you're okay, or we're alive. After all they'd been through over the last year, he knew that the most important thing was that they were together. She loved him for saying that.” @sams-bubblegum-bitch

53. She looked at me, like she was drinking in the fact that I was still here. And I realized I was doing the same thing. The world was collapsing, and the only thing that really mattered to me was that she was alive. @ravengirl94 Dean X Reader

54. No one can hate you with more intensity than someone who used to love you. @mrspadalackles  Dean X Reader

55. He didn't think much of fates and prophecies, but he did believe in one thing: ------- and he were supposed to be together. @jotink78 Dean X Reader

*This is mostly for the SPN-verse. But should a prompt really speak to you, for Marvel or HP, feel free to IM me with your idea and fandom. If I read those, maybe we can work it out* 

Tagging folks off the top of my head who might be interested in participating and/ or signal boosting:

@sdavid09 @thing-you-do-with-that-thing @grace-for-sale @kas-not-cas @blacktithe7 @mysupernaturalfics @feelmyroarrrr @melonberri @torn-and-frayed @bringmesomepie56 @chaos-and-the-calm67 @like-a-bag-of-potatoes @supernatural-jackles @mrswhozeewhatsis @mamapeterson @atc74 @jayankles @chelsea072498 @jelly-beans-and-gstrings @kittenofdoomage @winchesterprincessbride @iwantthedean @impalaimagining @impala-dreamer @luci-in-trenchcoats @deanxfuckingadorablexwinchester @deanssweetheart23 @ravengirl94 @jotink78 @deansdirtylittlesecretsblog

[apex-man-47]

Well, new challenge idea in mind

So lately, I have had the itch to try out and make some mini “one-shot” style captions on my Instagram quite a bit, and somehow I feel like it could be a worthy challenge, open to anyone who wants in. It’s probably one I’m doing to rather just keep my creative juices flowing during current times.

The challenge is the “Letter to Story” challenge. The respective IG tag is #lettertostorychallenge.

The rules, are as follows (yeah, I copied off of a Discord server since I posted about it there):

-  pick ANY letter to have a post (or series of posts, should I rather say) on social media (or a photo if its on FB, as part of an album I suppose) that starts off with the format of (letter): (what post number it is for the challenge) - "(title)". NOTE: Once you pick a letter, you stick with it for the rest of the challenge, otherwise start with the entry’s beginning being as follows: (new letter if you picked): 0 - “(title, but try to sorta hint that you’re starting again, or on a new note)”. Note: I have started it on IG, since it's doable on there, but it can work on FB as well!

-  the title bit can be any length like a chapter name BUT has to have a word that a) begins with the letter you chose, and B) is a topic that you want to try expressing through the photo(s) in some way. 

An example of this is like (as follows):

R:3 - "Morning work raves", OR

R: 4 - “Reunion”, OR 

R: 5 - “Running for the woods”

BUT

-  after the title, that’s where you tryout with maybe talking about the image - let it be the background of the photos, or let it be text that would look like its in a fictional series - which, ironically, seems more of a doable tactic when you use shots that are nature-based or from gameplay (ironically im reviving my old fic series)

-  the photo, however, has to be following a certain element/theme overall - for example, I'm using the letter "R" BUT all my posts are with photos that use shots of mine from GT Sport, if not a bit of IRL (since its based on a fun thing i had with old friends back in the day - and is bound to have IRL posts sometime onto it). Another example could be making use of trip photos that don’t (or do, if you’re brave enough) feature any people in it, but feature some form of nature/environment in it (such as shots of valleys, or city streets) - and then just going at it with either a fictional take (with an OC or not, which my attempt DOES HAVE ONE BECAUSE OF GTS) or just you talking about how it links up with your title (such as my shot with “redesign” - which has me talking about how i am indeed reworking an old project).

-  the end goal is to see how long you could keep it up if possible, with one letter. I’m only just getting round to doing my 6th entry later today! I’ve also taken the liberty of mixing it up a notch, with some of the upcoming challenge posts going on my alt IG.

[habla-yegua]

So my ex had messaged me yesterday via social media. Now this is an ex-ex. One that I haven’t spoken to in years. I mean, I’ve reached out to her to see how she was doing a few times but no response really. One time, her current boyfriend got on the phone acting all kind of brave. Pathetic.

Fast forward 5+ years and here we are.

I had totally been You-ing her. Total Joe Goldberg over here. Geez. This was after an intentional cord breaker ceremony. What are the fucking odds?

Why am I like this? Why do I compulsively obsess over someone at a given time? I don’t even know why. It’s not like they want anything to do with me or even remember me. Maybe some do, I wouldn’t know but I mean, I joe Goldberg a few people from my past. Mostly to see if they’re alive. If they’re ok. If they’re happy, really. I mean, it truly gives me satisfaction if you can see their happiness.

So here I am, totally Joe Goldberg-ing her and shit. Curious about what her bf looks like Cuz I’m also like that. Fucking curious cat. But I can’t find anything. 🤷🏽‍♀️ I try to get over it. Don’t visit her page or anything...

Which she casually had made public recently. Which is what ensued this shit storm of a downward spiral. So I couldn’t not look right? Whatever.

So I’m Gucci or kosher (as this client I have says LmAo) and suddenly, I’m on My social media minding my business when a message pops up on the top and it says her name and in like WUT.

And it was the most simplest thing. It makes me think is This some sort of game? Like is this what I am? A fucking game? I don’t even know.

She says she hopes I’m well. And I’m like holy shit. 5+ years. No word. No sound. Suddenly your shit is public. And now you’re messaging me?

I was literally screaming. I mean isn’t this what joe Goldberg would do? Wouldn’t he be fucking ecstatic that the girl he’s been stalking is now giving him the attention he wants?

But I’m not. That’s where joe and I differ.

My heart was pounding. My head was still blown. 🤯🤯🤯 legit.

I mean, ok back track to this ex of mine. She was the first one I lived with. My first long relationship. She was my first for a lot of thing. She taught me a lot of things too but we clearly weren’t made for each other. Also, she’s a Gemini. Keep that in mind. 😂

I loved this girl. Regardless of what happened, I felt love for her and cared for her deeply. I wanted the world for her and I don’t know. Maybe she had some reservations about her gayness. Maybe she was skeptical about me. Maybe I didn’t give her what she needed or made her feel how she wanted. Whatever the case was, we didn’t work and things ended. Perhaps not the best way. I’m a coward but once I’m done, I’m done.

Ever since seeing her profile become public, it made me think a lot about her and our relationship. I recognized a lot of my faults and where I fucked up. I recognized that we were both very young with a lot of issues to resolve. We didn’t really know how to handle that. There was a lot pressure I had, to take care of her and the home and then myself. I remember gaining so much weight. I remember pushing her to get her diploma. Then going to dade for medical assistant. I remember working two full time jobs to pay for shit. I remember coming home from work to cook for us. I don’t remember her complimenting me or loving on me. I remember her silliness and how funny she was. I remember this one incident we were play fighting and I accidentally kicked her in the stomach and she got so upset. Her sister was living with us at the time and she runs to her sisters room and tells her to tell me to get out. And i was so confused cuz we were playing and it was an accident. That was something else I remember too. Just leaving a lot. Sleeping in my car. Going back and forth to my moms house. She always had somewhere to be. Her home. But it wasn’t mine even tho I paid to be there and had her there.

Gemini’s.

So since this happened yesterday, I got an email from tumblr yesterday reminding me about this tumblr that I still have. I visited it and remembered all the shit I had previously written and remembered how great of an outlet this was. So I’m back!

Ok so back to my bullshit. Anyway

So she messages me and I’m like holy shit. I see the message cuz it was so short. And I’m thinking of what to reply before opening it. So finally I’m like ok. And I legit just tell her I’m speechless cuz I never thought I’d hear from her. After I sent it tho, her profile was public and she had just posted something a few mins prior to me sending and it had some inspirational quote about life. And I’m like ok. Lol. What timing. So I’m like ok. And she replied back. In like ok maybe I’ll get a full convo out of her? Idk why or what I was expecting tbh. And she’s all like she’s good given the circumstances. And I’m like uhhmmm. So she asks me and I reply and I ask how her family is doing. I was very close to them all.

Tell me why this Gemini done read my message and has not answered??? I am screaming. Literally. Lol.

Omg. So whatever. I’m allowing her to reply cuz it was later at night. Maybe she’s trying to go bed. Idk. I go to her profile again and I see she had deleted that post she had posted right before I sent her my first response. And I’m like ok?

So today, still no response. And I’m wondering if to say something or not. At this point it’s 10:30 am and neither of us have said anything. So then I try to peep her profile. And guess what?

GUESS FUCKING WHAT?

Lol. It’s back on private. 😂

Im done.

[coldlittleturtle-blog]

mic drop.

“no need to see each other ever again, this is my last goodbye mothing more left to say, don’t even apologize”

i am done with feeling pity for myself. cause thats all ive been doing. cause i dont know what else to called for this never-ending stories. so here it is, the last rant. cause i am not gonna waste my emotion for u, there’s no more anger, no more hatred. goodbye. 

u know about u cant really relay on people. so u basically putting ur guards up and just keep ur circle tight cause u just people dissapointed u 

despite what ive been saying, that, i like this major- it cant help but have it perks.

like i know, having bad btch on groupwork one of the factors- but im saying perhaps this because of me, once again. this is because of my shitty self which need a lot of work.

i have been quite a mess since forever. my grades quite nice, i can say i worked my ass off for every score i got. despite that, still, im quite a problematic student. i skipped class. i went in and out to 'guru bp' or student advisory just to rant my thoughts and how it bothers me. 

the depression i got when i was on economic major and bravely quit, is one last straw. all i knew back then was i cant go on, this has to stop. and im sorry, but perhaps quitting this major and start a new life on would probably the best idea. well, maybe it was.

ive never felt the relapsing and recovery as real as those 9months.  i went off dancing. my emotional eating was at its highest. i become a master at numbing the pain. i cry every now and then, i cant sleep. i told my mom i went off watching kdramas when in real life- i just distract my brain from thinking stuff.  and not able to sleep soundly cause the terryfing dreams i'd face if i close my eyes.

im pratically high. i 'open' at any possible genre, even kpop. i always said kpop is just a bunch of beautiful boys that looks like girl. and they dont even use alphabet. but there i was, watching running man and fell in love with bigbang. loser got me. and then all the hype song they had which i can dance with.

i fought my battles alone. cause i had no one to go to. other than those suicidal preventions site and tumblr posts.

i found out talking to those student advisory when i was in school is a bullshit and just coverin my attendance which was mess cause i often skip class. fact is, everytime i 'ended up' skip class (aka skip school) i was already arrived- my nerves just got really bad and i cant bear myself getting out the car and go to school. why am i feeling this- cause i just done the same bullshit today. i texted my student advisory asked her for a private session. it'll be on monday, but yeah- i thought everybody goin thru the same shit why would i be important. 

so i asked her again to 'can i just share it here, no need to come directly to u' and she said she's on a rehearsal (shes a drama club supervisor too) and i went no, its okay it doesnt have to be now.  and now i dont know what to answer again or just 'not saying anything and just let it slide to monday'

the point is. i realized i have spent years talking to the same 'advisory' they are no help. theyre just there-

so i see this as a 'im not going back there again, imma fight this my own- imma share it to this little circle i have and NOT some strangers with titles'

bts saved me. those stupid tumblr posts saved me. and i found out i get help from those things- and not some strangers. after bangtan i met u. i opened up my wars. my wounds are wide open now, and i feel everybody know the real me. the shit ive been going thru.

i realized now.. i dont need to be moping around tellin my stories to people who dont even care.  but i can inspire those who can appriciate, and be a good person for them. a good friend, cause they know my worse, and they're worthy my gold. 

all im saying is that, i am done with all this. yes, i am likely to be having those days, but i will go through it simply. i am gonna work my best on school, i am done pitying myself but i will still know my worth. 

i am done telling the stories. but i am also done numbing the pain. i am going to embrace those shitty feelings cause thats what it means to be a human. and for my past- i forgive you. i will not talk about you anymore, now i am just grateful that because of you, i can be this person right now. 

i am still going to make a post about it, later on. but just know, that everything i will write in the future- will be just fine. 

this is my story. and i am gonna be just fine. 

[the-real-anywolf]

Choose Your Own Ending

Alright, so for shits and gigs Any and I started texting as Dean and Cas while I was crazy white girl wasted. And Any thought let's post it on our blog and get our readers to write the narrative of what happens next. So let's do this! Reblog this craziness with your narrative, and we’ll reblog it with the corresponding texts between Dean and Cas after your narrative. So on and so forth. No word length requirement or anything, let's choose your own ending this bitch!

Cas: Hello Dean, I heard you are drunk. Do you need assistance to get home to the bunker?

Dean: Nah cas man I'm still drinking but thanks fir pretty texting me. 

You should vine drunk text with me? 

Come not vine 

Fuck you autocorrect you were supposed to have my back l!!

Cas: I'm confused. You want me to come or you want to text me while inebriated?

Dean: Lolol come drink with me cas! 

I'm at a place called bam bam's im peeyyy sure it's a gay bar 

Like all the couples are two dudes or two chicks 

Why do people hate gay people I mean it doesn't make sense

Cas: Humans have always been inclined to fear what they don't understand. Other humans are brave though and decide to love instead of hate. The nice voice on my phone says I can be with you in thirty minutes.

Dean: You're the fucking best man I ever tell you that? The fucking best

Cas: Thank you, Dean. Although I'm not sure why you said that.

Dean: Cuz you deserve yo hear it cas I don't tell you enough 

Oh man a guy asked my drunk ass to dance lol

Cas: What guy?

Dean: No idea some guy. Might have said yes if I wasn't there sheets to the fucking wind I don't think I could stand if I tried

Cas: I see. I thought you're only interested in women.

Dean: Supposed to be but can you keep a secret

Cas: Of course.

Dean: I think dudes are hot too I think about it sometimes 

What it would be like to fuck a guy

Cas: Is that something you want to try at some point?

Dean: I don't know it scares me too

Cas: Why does it scare you?

Dean: Not supposed to

Cas: It sounds like you don't apply the same rules you have for others to yourself

Dean: Right? It's okay for others but I can't because you gotta be tough Dean. Big boys don't cry over scraping their goddamn knees. Quit your crying. You know who cries? Babies. Shut up Dean men are supposed to be men not girls. 

After so many years of that cas I kinda hate that the bigoted words of a dead man still makes me a terrified child

Cas: But you aren't a child anymore, Dean. You are a man that makes his own decisions, has his own life. You are brave and strong and you saved the world a few times. You should do what feels right in your heart. You should do things that makes you happy because there is no one in the world, who I believe, deserves it more than you do, Dean.

Dean: I deserve to get my sick sucked by a blue eyed twink? lol Dick not sick lol

Cas: I only understood half of that, but sure – you should do whatever makes you happy. 

What is a twink?

Dean: I was laughing that you casicslly implied that I deserve to have sex with a dude 

A twink is a like younger dude, smaller frame, at least if you go by queer as folk 

Don't tell Sammy I've watched it

Cas: Of course I won't tell him. So you like men who are smaller than you with blue eyes?

Dean: Maybe

Cas: What else do you find attractive?

Dean: I like nice lips

Cas: Aren't all lips nice?

Dean: Nah man some are like thin and not soft 

Nice lips means better kissers usually 

You have nice lips You probably are really good at kissing

Cas: I don't know. I lack the experience. But thank you. 

I think you have nice lips, too.

Dean: Some people are naturally good at it 

And thanks. Been told a time or two I know my way around a French kiss

Cas: How can a kiss be french?

Dean: Lolol sometimes I forget you're an angel 

It's when you use you tongue when you kiss

Cas: I wasn't aware there was an expression for that. Kissing is nice.

Dean: Right? I mean if I had to choose between kissing and sex I'd seriously contemplate it for a minute before choosing sex lolol

Cas: Good that you never have to choose. You can always have both. I would like to experience that again. 

Preferably without being tortured and stabbed to death afterwards.

Dean: Fuck man yeah sex is supposed to not end in death usually 

You haven't fucked anyone since that bitch?

Cas: No. To be honest I lost interest in it after that experience.

Dean: I'm not surprised but I promise normal sex ends good usually

Cas: I'm not good at this, getting to know people. And I don't want to do it with someone I don't know. And since I'm not human. It's not ideal.

Dean: I get that. Anyone you do actually know you want to do it with?

Cas: Yes. But that person isn't an option.

Dean: Why not?

Cas: Because I don't want to do anything that could risk the friendship I have with that person. I can't lose them. It's not an option.

Dean: I get that man, sex fucks shit up 

That's why I don't fuck people I actually care about 

Not anymore

Cas: It's probably a wise decision. It would make it so much worse to lose that person, once you would know how nice it is to be with them. So now you see why I can't have sexual intercourse with anyone. I don't want to do it with someone I don't know. But I'm also not brave enough to do it with someone I have feelings for.

Dean: Man that's fucked cas but I get it 

I had a sex dream about you once 

Fuck man I must be drunk telling you shit like that 

Sorry ignore me 

How far out are you now

Cas: Ten minutes. Don't worry, Dean. I'm aware that dreams are nothing humans have control over. I know it doesn't mean anything.

Dean: I've thought about it but like I said, I care about you so no sex for us 

Which sucks cuz I bet you're fucking good in the sack too 

Fuck tell me to stop texting you

Cas: Does that mean you would have sex with me if you didn't care about me?

Dean: Weird huh? Maybe if I ever got the balls to pick up a guy? If you and I didn't know each other, yeah. I'd probably hit on you

Cas: I would have let you.

Dean: You said you wouldn't bang someone you don't know lol

Cas: If you and I didn't know each other, I'm sure I would be a different person today. And you were always the only person who I would make an exception for.

Dean: Would work wouldn't it? You could get laid with me since you won't hook up with who you have a thing for. I'd get to see if I even like it. Too bad we're friends huh?

Cas: Yes. It's too bad. Five minutes.

Dean: Well if you ever change your mind 

Fuck it right? 

You only live once? Well, more than that for us

Cas: I thought you wouldn't have sex with someone you cared for?

Dean: I shouldn't Doesn't mean I don't want to

Cas: I understand that feeling more than you think. But Dean, you're not an option for me.

Dean: Yeah I am! You know me!

Cas: Yes, I do. But listen to me, Dean. You are not an option.

Dean: Sorry man I'm assuming you'd find me attractive you probably don't lol

Cas: You're infuriatingly dense when you're inebriated. 

Don't make me say it, Dean.

Dean: Why you scared cas? Am I the person you don't want to lose friendship to

Cas: Yes.

Dean: If we just had sex who's to say we'd stop being friends 

We kept it casual then there'd be no loss of friendship

Cas: It wouldn't be casual for me.

Dean: Alright then

Cas: I'm sorry. I never wanted to tell you this.

Dean: It's fine cas. I don't get it but it's fine

Cas: I have feelings for you.

Dean: No I mean I got that. I don't get why you do

Cas: You really have to ask, after everything we've been through together? After everything you've done for me? After all the times you saved me, opened my eyes, taught me how to live?

Dean: Cas I'm the worst person you could develop feelings for 

For all those good things I've done just as many bad things

Cas: Dean, I can't change the way I feel and no matter how you see yourself and how much guilt you carry on your shoulders, it won't change the way I see you. I'm in the parking lot. I hope you still want me as your friend, knowing this. I never wanted to make you uncomfortable. I'm not expecting anything. I never did.

Dean: You're my best friend that won't ever change. Get your ass in here and let's drink till we can't feel feelings anymore

Cas: I’ll be there in a minute.

Dean: I'm at the bar.

(Five minutes later)

Dean: Cas you bailing?

Cas: I don’t know. I can’t seem to leave the car.

Dean: I'm not gonna bite you

Cas: I’m not afraid of you biting me, Dean.

Dean: What are you scared of then?

Cas: I’m not sure. Mostly of myself. It’s hard to explain.

Dean: Want me to come to you?

Cas: I’m indecisive. Talking like this is somehow easier.

Dean: Right? I'm way more honest in texts And when I'm ducked up

Cas: I’m afraid when I see you now that I would do something stupid.

Dean: That's what alcohols for Let's not think about that shit 

Come have a shot with me and I'll dare you to buy a drink for someone and you'll just do it to shut me up but then you'll laugh and take more shots

Cas: My grace isn’t at its best at the moment. I could get intoxicated, too.

Dean: Hell yeah even better 

Let's get stupid and then you'll not feel as weird about telling me 

You're a hilarious drunk

Cas: What if I try to kiss you? People do stupid things when they are intoxicated.

Dean: You've never tried to kiss me before. And fuck it if you do

Cas: I intended to drive you home. I can’t do that when I’m inebriated, too. How would we get home?

Dean: There's a motel a block over well just grab a room for the night. Get your ass in here

Cas: Alright.

[yovngho]

johnny + 3 please?

“You came back.” send a number + member for a drabble ☼ 

this one is an au. I hope this is okay but if you dont like it feel free to request again! mentions of blood + death

also this is so long its a damn scenario im sorry dfgddhdhg

You knew there was no stopping him. You didn’t try and you didn’t want to either. This had been his dream for so long it would have been selfish of you to hold him back. “When I come back,” he told you one night, “I’ll take you to see the world. We can rest on the beaches and walk through the most beautiful meadows we hear about in songs and stories.” His eyes would light up talking about the adventures the two of you would have outside of the kingdom. He pulled you closer to his side, rough tunic scratching your face gently as a reminder that he was still there with you. 

The day he left for battle, you had helped him dress in his armour. You had your own post to attend in the late morning which would allow you enough time to watch him and the other officers leave. He held you so close the metal detailings on his chest plate pushed into you uncomfortably, but you couldn’t find yourself to care. Youngho pulled away, eyes full of tears and hope. “I’ll be back in a month or two don’t you worry.” His hands found your face, taking the time to memorise every feature of your face. “I love you.” He reminded you.

“I love you too.” You told him, wiping the tears from his cheeks. “You make sure you bring yourself home. I’ll be waiting for you.” Your lips met again, desperate to savour the last few moments you may ever have together. You tried to act like this might not be the last time you see him. Like he wasn’t going into battle against one of the strongest forces on land. “Do you still have my token?”

He huffed out a laugh at that. “As If I’d ever let it off my person.” His fingers reached into his chest piece to reveal a scrap of dark fabric. It had once been part of your tunic but ripped off the night you first declared your love for one another. A token to remind him you’re always in his heart. You’d been so desperate to prove to him you’d ripped the material right off your sleeve. It perhaps wasn’t the most elegant option, but it brought a blinding smile to his face. Your body melded into his that night, solidifying the bond already formed between you two. “I keep it with me always.”

He stuffed it back into its holding as a horn echoed through the courtyard. It tugged at your heart and you knew that was it. You walked with him to his horse, putting on a brave face for him because you knew he couldn’t cry then. He kissed you again, languid as he could be in the time frame given, savouring your taste. “Stay safe, my love.” 

You scoffed at him, “Shouldn’t I be saying that to you?” He mounted his horse with grace before sending a smile your way.

“You have many times, my dear.” Horses started to amble in the direction of battle and you both knew had to join them. “I love you.” He said again, grasping your hand tightly. “But don’t worry, two months will fly by and you’ll be sick of my face again in no time.”

He’s declared dead a month later. A raven made it’s way back to the keep stating their army was slaughtered by the enemy. Fewer than thirty men of the five hundred sent survived to their knowledge and had begun their journey back south as they sent word. Everyone one else was declared missing, which was the word they used to ease grieving widows. Two of the soldiers who had returned from the battle were recounting the massacre that happened. Partners and children howled and screamed in heartbreak and loss for parents, spouses and lovers. You stayed still. Lower jaw shaking. Vision blurred with tears. You don’t move to wipe them. You just stand there, listening to the chaos around you and all you can picture is his smile. You picture his smile vanishing as a sword pushes into his stomach, taking the light from his eyes as blood starts to- You stop yourself. It’s not worth thinking about. 

It’s foolish, but you even months later you can’t accept the reality. You half expect him to surprise you at the mill or, maybe you’ll wake up with him beside you again. You push yourself out of bed, wiping the wetness from your face and know you have to start moving forward. The road to acceptance will be a slow and painful one, you know this. But you also know Youngho will always stay in your heart no matter what. 

It’s been six months since he left. You’re spending the day revisiting important places to you and Youngho. The market stall where you met, the stables where you’d meet at night, the lake where you’d frequently picnic. You’re at the pasture where you’d spent countless nights together looking up at the stars in each other’s arms. He was such a romantic, you remember fondly. The horses are grazing so you lean on the fence so as not to disturb them when the two children from the farmhouse come careening into view hollering loudly to their parents. 

“Quickly mum, Renjun might be with them!” You hear the youngest boy call. You knew Renjun vaguely. He was one of the youngest of the troops Youngho was deployed with. Wait… “C’mon! Let’s go greet them!” The two kids run ahead of their parents who walk cautiously behind and you decide to follow them to see what was happening. You want to ignore the tightness in your chest hoping to see your Youngho again, but in the back of your mind you can’t help but think what if. 

The gates to the city are open wide, those who were tending to their shops have stepped out to investigate and a crowd forms around the courtyard. You hear a trumpet sound and they start filing through the gates. Almost a hundred soldiers stumble through, welcomed home by the thunderous applause and cheers from the crowd. You stay off to the side, scanning the soldiers for any familiar faces. Several men were limping, being supported, or carried by their peers. A female officer burst forward from the crowd, beelining to her family to find herself enveloped in hugs. You watch the encounter with a soft smile on your face. Today was a day to celebrate. When you turn back, the gate has closed and for the briefest moment, you think you see him holding up a friend but then the crowd is clustering around the soldiers making their way to the infirmary and he’s gone again. 

You slap yourself gently to calm yourself down and decide to head to the stall earlier than expected. You worked at the food stall in the main market (which is where you had first met Youngho) with Joohyun. As you turn the corner, you see her chatting happily with a customer, their back facing you. You sigh, mentally preparing yourself to deal with people in your less than stable state. Joohyun breaks into a smile seeing you approach and the customer follows her gaze to see what she’s looking at.

You stop as your eyes meet his and you feel like the whole world is freezing and collapsing around you. There’s blood and dirt caking his face. His hair sticks to his scalp and forehead. There are bags under his eyes peeking through the grime coating his face, but his dazzling smile cuts through it all. You don’t realise you’re sobbing until he scoops you in his arms, fingers wiping away at your tears. Shaking your head in disbelief you reach up to trace the contours of his face carefully. “This isn’t real.” You tell yourself. You’ve really lost it now, imagining he’s in front of you.

“I’m here. I’m real.” He tells you, brow furrowed unsure how to comfort you. Youngho rests his forehead against yours before taking your hand. He places it over his heart. “See, I’m here.”

His heart beat hits where your hand rests on his chest and you look up into his eyes as acceptance overwhelms you. “You came back.” It’s not a question. A statement because he’s alive and he’s with you again and all the sadness that possessed you for six months disappears to the back of your mind.

He kisses you, desperate and needy like a man drowning. “I came back.”

[doveziam]

Wrong For Too Long - Chapter 3

Fanfic based on THIS PROMPT posted by @right-next-to-u. Thank you, sweetie! <3 Thanks @ziam-fanatic my love, for editing and helping me! x

Title: Wrong For Too Long (or read on AO3) By: doveziam Pairing: Zayn Malik/Liam Payne Rating: E Genre: Angst (if you feel insecure, read the tags) Chapters: 3/4 (56k) Summary:

While a lot of people spent years and years pining for someone they didn’t know, it was very easy for Liam to discover who his soulmate was. The most expected day to everybody he knew, came for him at a very young age. He was fifteen, and it was the first day of classes. He was distracted by his phone and bumped into his crush.

Unfortunately

CHAPTER 1 (AO3) | CHAPTER 2 (AO3) | CHAPTER 4 (AO3)

Chapter 3: Where I wanna be

It was Friday afternoon, and Zayn hadn’t heard from Liam since the previous day. He was frustrated about it, but he should learn to live with it. Liam needed time to process everything, and Zayn didn’t have the right to pressure him. Maybe, if he hadn’t been so anxious and hadn’t sprung everything onto Liam immediately, it would be better. Now it was too late to think of the ‘what ifs’.

Plus, Zayn hadn't told Louis, Ant and Danny about anything yet. First he would deal with Louis. He was prone to be the most difficult one, but once Zayn lets him know, the others would be easier.

That afternoon, he met with Louis at their favorite coffee place. Louis had drunk two cups of tea and Zayn still hadn’t worked up the nerve to tell him. It wasn’t that he doubted their friendship, not now, after so many years. It was his shame that was preventing him from telling. But Liam was his soulmate, and he would have to tell his friends sooner or later. And sooner was better than later. If Louis didn’t like it, he will damn well learn to accept it. Although, he’s not the asshole everyone think he is.

“So, Lou, I wanna tell you something,” Zayn said, ripping a paper napkin into small pieces.

“Finally! I thought you’d never tell me what was bothering you,” Louis said, giving Zayn his undivided attention.

If it was any other situation, Zayn would have kicked Louis under the table, but now wasn’t the time for jokes. Louis noticed the change in Zayn’s pattern and frowned.

“Yeah.” Zayn shrugged, hunching his shoulders a bit. “I found my soulmate,” he said, quietly, but with a small smile.

“No shit! Really?” Louis smiled and leaned over the table to squeeze Zayn’s arm. “I’m glad, lad. How is he?”

Zayn smile grew a bit more. “He’s awesome.” He swallowed hard, with a dreamy expression on his face.

“Oh, my god! Stop the gross thoughts you're thinking in front of me!” Louis kicked him under the table, making Zayn jump and kick him back. “When am I meeting the lad?”

“Well, ‘bout that…” Zayn cleared his throat. “You already know him. It’s Liam,” he said, looking at his hands.

“Liam? As in, Liam Payne?” Louis asked, bemused.

“Yeah.” Zayn nodded, still not looking at Louis.

“You mean, the same Liam that studied with us?”

“Yeah, that one.”

“The fireman?”

“Yes.”

“Shit.”

Zayn kept quiet. He couldn’t agree with that sentiment. If he was completely honest with himself, he wasn’t disappointed about it. His only disappointment was with himself, because when it came to Liam… He was ecstatic. Liam was gorgeous, brave, hot, cute… He was complete. Perfect.

“I fucked up, yeah,” Zayn said, his voice low, still not looking at Louis.

“Fuck, mate,” Louis said, sounding overwhelmed. “You’re not kidding.”

“I’m not.”

“Wow. This is… This is a lot,” Louis mumbled. “Shit, man. Like, Liam seems like a nice guy and everything, but…”

“He is a great guy,” Zayn defended him fiercely, snapping his head up and looking at Louis.

“Oi, calm the fuck down. I was trying to talk about his imprints in a nice way, okay?” Louis said, sharply.

“We’re still working on that,” Zayn mumbled, looking down.

“Yeah, tell me about it,” Louis rolled his eyes.

“Fuck off, Lou. The situation is shitty enough without you being an asshole,” Zayn grumbled.

“Did he try punch you when he found out?” Louis asked, teasing, but slightly worried. “Or does he not know yet?”

“He already knew. Since school,” Zayn said, picking another napkin to rip into tiny pieces.

“He what?” Louis blanched. “No shit! Why didn’t he tell you? Is he insane or something? Fuck!” Louis was shocked.

“He thought I wouldn’t believe him,” Zayn said, sadly.

“And would you? Believe him, I mean.”

“Of course I would! I had a crush on him through all of Sixth Form. I just forced myself not to think about him,” Zayn said, rolling the small pieces of paper between his fingers.

“But he didn’t tell you anyway,” Louis said. He sounded bemused still.

“Yeah. And he was going through a rough time at school too, with Percy and his friends. And then I didn’t do anything to help the situation, on the contrary.” Zayn shrugged. “But I still think he should have told me. I would have believed him.”

“How can you be so sure?” Louis asked. “He was pretty lame at the time.”

“He wasn’t lame. He was an easy target.” Zayn understood that now, but, at the time, he was too scared to be seen as a target to do anything different.

“Well, probably.” Louis shrugged. “But I think he should have told you too. We would have protected him, you know.”

“Would you?” Zayn asked, surprised.

“What? You think we’d let your soulmate get bullied the way he was if we knew?” Louis snorted. “Oh, yeah, now I can see you two are soulmates, alright. You’re as insane as him.” Louis kicked him under the table again and Zayn smiled, feeling too grateful for words.

--

If it was up to Zayn, he would spend all day sending messages to Liam. But he didn’t sound too enthusiastic in his answers, and it made Zayn insecure and anxious. He didn’t know if Liam was busy or if he just didn’t want to answer him. Or even if he didn’t like texting. It’s a possibility. Zayn just missed him so much…

It was such a weird feeling. He missed his soulmate since his first imprint appeared. He spent nights thinking about who he could be - because he was always sure it was a he. But he was so caught up in hiding his soft spot for Liam, that he forced himself not to pay attention to him. Besides saying shit about him, that was his biggest mistake. He was sure that, if he had paid attention to Liam, he would have noticed. Now he had to deal with the consequences.

The last message Liam sent him was a short ‘im not mad at u’ that did nothing to calm his anxiety. Zayn sent a ‘i miss you so much. when can i c u?’ that Liam didn’t even read. Zayn was frustrated and, on top of that, his father wasn’t talking to him. Shit.

Zayn had just arrived home after his classes. He was debating with himself if he should send Liam another message. I will send him as many messages as I want. He said I could, so I will. He thought, annoyed at himself.

“i just got home from my classes. how r u babe?” He sent and turned his laptop on.

Zayn started to browse through Liam’s social media. He wished he could like his pictures again and maybe catch his attention with it. Maybe I should comment on his pics? He thought, but didn't have the courage to do that. What would I comment? ‘You look hot’? Too forward. ‘Looking sharp’? Ugh, no. ‘I wanna lick your face’? That would be true, but inappropriate, though. It was too hard to comment on a picture from someone you’re not too familiar with. Which was awful, because Liam was his soulmate and he felt like he knew him already. But I don’t. And wasn’t that disheartening.

He decided to post something on his social media to pass the time. He picked up one of his sketchbooks and opened it up to a drawing of Liam’s eye. He put a good light over it and snapped a picture. He put a filter and added the caption “I saw your eyes in my soul even before I knew who you are. I love you. xx”. He wanted to tag Liam, but didn’t dare. After publishing it, he sent the link to Liam through a text message.

“i realized today that i used to draw u before i knew it was u”. He sent with the link of the picture attached. “tbh it was my mom that told me i use to drawn the same eyes and lips”.

After he sent the message, a lot of notifications started to pop up on his phone’s screen. He took a look at them, smiling with all the likes the drawing was receiving. There were some complimenting comments, some jokes lamenting he finding his soulmate. And, to his surprise, one of the comments was Niall’s: “take good care of him or i’ll beat you to death >:P”.

Zayn didn’t know how to react to that comment. The emoji made him think that maybe Niall was being friendly, but he doubted he was bluffing. Zayn liked the comment and answered it: “don’t worry. i’ll do best than my best’. As soon as he answered, Niall liked his comment, but didn’t answered back.

Zayn went to Niall’s profile and followed him. Niall followed him back and it was as good as any approval he could get.

He spent some time saving his favorites pictures from Liam’s profile - all of them, really - waiting for him to answer. Every time his phone vibrated, he looked at it, hoping it was Liam. It wasn’t.

It was almost 9pm when he turned off his laptop. He picked up his phone to read in bed, but he couldn’t concentrate. He was thinking, pondering if he should tell Liam that his parents knew about him. He sighed and decided to tell him.

“i told my parents bout u today. it went okay i guess. my dad is disappointed w me but i get him. i would b 2”. He sighed after he pushed the send button. “i told louis today too,” he added.

Zayn was looking at the thread of unread messages. He was trying to keep his hopes up, but he was sad. He started to type another message when the notification that Liam just read his messages came. He stopped, looking at it, waiting to see if the icon of Liam typing a message would appear. It didn’t. He sighed, ready to turn his phone off for the night, when it went off in his hand. He jumped with the sound and his heartbeat sped up when he saw who was calling him: Liam.

Zayn answered his phone quickly, a huge smile on his face.

“‘Lo,” he said, softly.

“Hey, Zayn. How are you?” Liam asked, with his voice a bit insecure.

Zayn sighed, closing his eyes to concentrate in Liam’s voice.

“I’m better now. How are you?” Zayn asked, the fond showing in his voice.

“I’m good,” Liam said. He kept quiet after that. Zayn didn’t know if he had something specific to say or if he called to just chat. He wanted to say so many things to Liam, but he decided it was better not to touch sensitive topics over the phone.

“I was looking at your pictures. You’re really photogenic,” Zayn said.

“Thanks,” Liam said, and Zayn could sense him smiling.

“I wanted to leave some comments, but I opted not to. I don’t want to make you feel uncomfortable.” And there was the ‘not touch sensitive topics over the phone’ going to hell.

“You can leave comments on my pics, Zayn,” Liam said, bemused.

“Not the way I want to, I think,” Zayn said, chuckling.

“How--? What did you want to comment?” Liam asked, laughing a bit too.

“Well, there was some pictures that I was too tempted to comment that you’re fucking hot.” He heard Liam huff a breath after that and went quiet. “And in others I wanted to say that you’re too cute for your sake. But I thought it would be too sudden for the people who follow you.”

“You didn’t think about that when you told Sophia about us,” Liam said, his voice reprimanding, but Zayn could sense he was just bantering.

“Yeah, I didn’t. My bad. I was scared she would hit on me,” Zayn said, laughing. He wasn’t scared, he was just uncomfortable under her attention and he wanted to keep her away.

“You could’ve just said no,” Liam said.

“Okay, I wanted her to know that you’re out of her reach too,” Zayn admitted.

“I can’t believe you,” Liam chuckled.

Zayn smiled, sighing. “I love the sound of your laugh,” he said. Liam stopped chuckling, but Zayn felt he was still smiling. He heard Liam take a deep intake of breath. “You okay, babe?”

“Yeah, it’s just…” Liam started to said and stopped.

“What?” Zayn asked, worried.

“It’s just… I’m not used to the feeling of those imprints. Since we started to talk my hand felt warm twice, and a new one appeared just now,” Liam admitted.

“Oh…” Zayn bit his lip, not knowing what to say to keep the tone light. “Did you see the link I sent you?” he asked instead.

“Not yet,” Liam answered. “I called because I wanted to know if you’re free tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow?” Zayn repeated, his heart fluttering in his chest. “I’m free, yeah. Why?”

“I wanna know if you want to go out with me. Have lunch or summat,” Liam said, clearly nervous.

“You mean, like a date?” Zayn asked, his smile was huge.

“Well-- Yeah, like a date,” Liam confirmed.

“I would love to have lunch with you, babe,” Zayn said. “Or anything, really. Just hang out with you,” he felt the need to add.

“Okay,” Liam said, sounding relieved.

Zayn wanted to ask if Liam doubted he would go with him on a date, and if so, why, but he stopped himself. His mom told him to not pressure Liam, so he would try his best.

“Where will we meet?” Zayn asked.

“Oh. I was thinking of picking you up at your home? After all, I asked you out,” Liam answered. “Is that okay?”

“‘Course babe. What time?” Zayn asked.

“How about at noon?”

“Perfect,” Zayn said.

“Dress casual, I’m taking you on a picnic,” Liam said.

“Oh, really? Sounds like fun!” Zayn said, giddy.

“Yeah,” Liam agreed and went quiet again.

“Will you let me kiss you?” Zayn asked, flirty.

“You’re impossible,” Liam said, chuckling. Zayn felt his hand warm and smiled.

“That’s not a no,” Zayn teased.

“You can try,” Liam teased back.

“Ooh, you’re such a tease,” Zayn joked.

“See you tomorrow?” Liam averted the question and Zayn laughed.

“Sure, babe. I can’t wait to see you again,” Zayn said.

“Me neither,” Liam whispered. “Bye.”

“Bye. I love you!” Zayn said, when Liam was hanging up. He hoped he had heard it. He felt his hand warm over the ‘I love you too’ imprint and giggled.

Zayn sent the message “u’ll be the death of me”.

“and u’ll love every second of it :P”, was Liam’s quick answer.

“i will”, Zayn sent back.

He was the happiest he remembered being in all his life.

--

“what should i wear???” Zayn sent a message to Louis the next day, with four pictures attached. Two pairs of dark skinny pants and two shirts.

“where are you going?” Louis sent, without answering.

“a picnic date with Liam”, Zayn sent the answer with two more pictures, another pair of skinny pants and a t-shirt.

“none of them. you’re going to a park or something like that you need smth comfortable. put that batman tshirt you cut the sleeves off and turned into a tank top and put some not too tight pants with ripped knees”, Louis answered.

“k”, Zayn sent and put the clothes. He chose a pair of light wash jean pants. “boots?”

“sneakers. dont u know what comfortable means”, Louis answered.

“fuck you”, Zayn sent and picked up a pair of dark gray sneakers.

“u dont need 2 b edgy w him u need 2 b u”, Louis sent back.

“so insightful”, Zayn answered, smiling. He took a picture of himself in the mirror and sent Louis. “what bout the hair?” he asked, touching his undercut, thinking in maybe a top knot.

“let it loose to the side of ur face”, Louis answered.

“k im ready then”, Zayn sent after putting some rings on his fingers and a nose ring.

“did u put eyeliner?” Louis asked.

“werent u the one talking bout comfortable????” Zayn asked, laughing.

“i never said such thing”, Louis answered and proceeded to distract Zayn until the doorbell rung.

“hes here bye”, Zayn locked his phone and pocketed it, running down the stairs. He hoped to get there before his mom, or worse, one of his sisters.

He wasn’t so lucky. When he got there, his mom had already opened the door and was inviting Liam in.

“There’s no need for him to enter, mom. We’re leaving,” Zayn said, smiling when he saw Liam. Fuck, he looks good.

Liam was wearing a tank top too, but a white one, showing the hair on his chiseled chest. His pants were a light wash jean, hanging low on his hips. He was wearing red sneakers and a red and black snapback.

“Yeah, thank you, Mrs. Malik,” Liam said, politely, but he was blushing a little with his hands inside his pockets.

“Call me Tricia, love,” Zayn’s mom said, smiling kindly.

“Bye, mom,” Zayn said, kissing her cheek and pulling Liam by his arm. “Don’t look back. If you show fear they’ll eat you alive,” he mumbled like he was talking about wild dogs. Liam laughed out loud at that, making Zayn giggle.

“You look good,” Liam said, opening the passenger door for Zayn. He had covered his imprints with makeup, and Zayn planned to ask about that when they arrived at the park.

“You look good too, babe,” Zayn flirted. “Such a gentleman,” he said, entering the car.

Liam closed the door and entered the car from the driver’s side.

“I’m taking you to a park close to my old school,” Liam said, starting the car. “It’s a nice place with huge trees and a pond.”

“Sounds lovely, babe,” Zayn said, smiling.

“I want to ask you something first,” Liam said, leaving the front of Zayn’s house carefully.

“Anything, babe,” Zayn assured him, noticing how he tensed a bit.

“Let’s focus on knowing each other today, yeah?” Liam said, forcing a smile. “I mean, I don’t wanna talk about my imprints, if that’s okay.”

Zayn sighed, but nodded. “Sure, babe.”

“And I loved your shirt,” Liam said, smiling, and jumping to the next subject.

“So, you like Batman, huh?” Zayn joked, poking his bulging arm, just an excuse to touch him, really.

“You know that already. You stalked me!” Liam said, giggling.

“Yeah, I did. Sorry, not sorry. But I like Batman too. I love comic books, so.” Zayn shrugged.

Of course Liam knew that, but he wasn’t ready to admit his own stalking yet.

“You can put some music on,” Liam said, pointing to the glove compartment.

Zayn opened it and picked up a disc case from there. He smiled when he noticed that him and Liam had similar tastes in music. He’s really perfect. He chose a Drake album and started to bop his head to the rhythm of the music.

“Good choice,” Liam said, smiling. “What’s your favorite comic book character?” he asked, and they engaged in a conversation about that.

They made the rest of the way listening to the songs and talking about comic books and superhero movies. When they arrived at the park, Liam picked up a basket from the trunk and went with Zayn to a tree close to the pond. He spread a picnic blanket, took off his shoes and sat down. Zayn took off his shoes as well and sat by Liam’s side, looking at the pond. There were some families around, but not too close to them. The groups of families were closer to the dock on the other side of the pond.

“This place is really nice,” Zayn said, smiling.

“Yeah, it is,” Liam agreed.

“It’s a shame I can’t swim,” Zayn said, looking at the kids jumping in the water at the other side.

“I can teach you,” Liam offered, while he opened the basket and put the contents on the blanket.

“Maybe another day,” Zayn said, a bit worried that Liam would push the subject.

“Okay. I hope you drink beer,” Liam said, changing the subject. He knew Zayn drank beer, he had actually bought his favorite brand, but Zayn didn’t need to know that.

“I drink beer, yeah,” Zayn said, nodding. Liam opened a small cooler he had brought, and handed a beer to Zayn, getting another one for himself. “Thanks.” Zayn smiled at him, taking the beer.

“I made some chicken sandwiches. Nothing too fancy, though. I just wanted a chill time, you know?” Liam sounded nervous and Zayn caressed his shoulder.

“It’s perfect, babe. Don’t worry,” Zayn assured him, and smiled when Liam leaned into his touch. It was difficult to hold himself back and not touch Liam all the time. Zayn was happy Liam was allowing his touches at all, though.

“Are you hungry yet?” Liam asked, after taking a sip of his beer.

“Not yet. You?” Zayn asked, sipping his beer.

Liam smiled shyly, shaking his head, and took another sip of his beer. Zayn touched his hand, caressing it softly. Liam tensed for a second, and then relaxed.

“Does it bother you?” Zayn asked, entwining their fingers.

“Not at all. It was just unexpected,” Liam said, smiling. He had thought Zayn would rub the makeup on his hands, that’s why he tensed. When he realized it was only a caress, he relaxed.

“‘Kay.” Zayn smiled. From time to time he glanced at Liam’s chest. The smattering of hair over chiseled muscle was too enticing for him to keep his eyes away for too long.

“If you do anything that bothers me, I’ll tell you immediately,” Liam said.

“Good. I like that,” Zayn said, nodding and leaning on Liam’s side.

They sipped their beers quietly, until Liam broke the silence.

“What are you studying at Uni?” he already knew, but he wanted to talk to Zayn, and get to know the real Zayn, not the one from social media.

“I’m majoring in English,” he answered.

“Why am I not surprised?” Liam said, and Zayn giggled. It was a very cute sound and he looked amazing doing it. “Do you like it?”

“I do. I prefer art, but I love English too. And it’s easier to get a job, so.” Zayn shrugged.

“Yeah, I guess it is.” Liam nodded.

“Yeah. Fortunately, I got a scholarship, so I can focus solely on my studies. I wanna take my Masters after my graduation, so I’m building my academic resume since now,” Zayn said.

“That’s really smart of you,” Liam said, rubbing Zayn’s fingers with his thumb.

“It has its disadvantages.” Zayn shrugged.

“Yeah? How come?”

“I mean, basically, I have to build a good reputation with the professors. So, I’m tutoring in some disciplines, I have an internship at the Lit Department and I joined the Lit Club. And those are besides the classes.”

“Wow. That’s a lot,” Liam said, impressed. He knew Zayn spent a lot of time at Uni, but didn’t know he was involved in so many things.

“Yeah. I can’t have a job ‘cause of it. So I spend the summers working two or three part time jobs to raise money for transportation and other small things. Fortunately, my dad said he would support me until I finish my studies. At least I won’t be homeless or hungry,” Zayn said. “On the downside, I’m still living at my parents’ house.”

“But anyway, it’s nice your dad helping you,” Liam said and Zayn nodded. “And it’s pretty impressive what you do. I mean, all those things at Uni…”

“It’s impressive because I’m poor. If you only knew how many rich kids at Uni have the time of their lives doing nothing, while I burn my ass off.” Zayn laughed.

“I can imagine,” Liam said, smiling. “But you’re still lucky, ‘cause your parents support you. A lot of people out there don’t have something like that.”

“Yeah, that’s true. It’s not the most ideal situation, but it’s better than most, isn’t it?” Zayn said.

Liam nodded, finishing his beer. “I’m getting hungry,” he said.

“Let’s eat,” Zayn put the rest of his beer to the side and helped Liam to serve their food. “This is really good,” he said, his mouth full, after the first bite of his sandwich.

“It’s just a sandwich.” Liam chuckled.

“A really good sandwich,” Zayn said. And it was true. “Who made these, again?”

“I made them,” Liam said.

“Hmm, so you can cook…” Zayn said, winking.

“I suppose I can.”

“You’re truly a dream.”

Liam smiled, feeling his cheeks get hot while his hand got warm. He swallowed the piece of sandwich that was in his mouth and took a sip from a bottle of water he had opened.

“Hm, does it always feel warm when the soulmate says something that you already has imprinted? I mean… You just said I’m a dream, and I felt my hand get warm,” Liam said that with his cheeks dusted in pink.

“Oh.” Zayn looked at Liam’s hands. “It does, yeah.” He smiled.

“Okay,” Liam ducked his head, eating his sandwich silently.

After they ate the sandwiches and put everything back in the basket, Liam held Zayn’s hand. Zayn smiled at him and leaned his head on Liam’s shoulder. He sighed happily. Liam turned his head a bit and breathed in Zayn’s hair. It smelled really nice and clean.

After a few minutes, Liam noticed that Zayn was very relaxed.

“Do you wanna lay down, babe?” Liam asked, softly.

Zayn nodded and raised his head. Liam put the basket to the side and helped Zayn to lie down. Liam laid down by Zayn’s side, and Zayn cuddled close to him, nestling his head on his shoulder. Zayn was smiling softly, his face close to Liam’s neck, breathing him in. He bit his lips and rolled to his side, putting his head over Liam’s chest and his arm around Liam’s waist.

He heard Liam’s heart beating fast and closed his eyes, feeling Liam’s hair and skin on his face. After a moment, Liam’s arms enveloped him tentatively, and Zayn melted. He stole a quick kiss on Liam’s chest and sighed. Soon he was asleep in Liam’s arms.

Liam stayed wide awake through all of Zayn’s power nap. His mind was running in circles, trying to reconcile the awareness it was feeling towards Zayn with the need his body felt for him. It’s not just my body. Is my soul too. He closed his eyes and stroke Zayn’s hair and back lovingly, feeling his breath puff on his chest.

He was surprised by Zayn’s kiss on his chest, to say the least. But it was a good surprise, if he was being honest. Zayn’s cheek was terribly endearing. He hadn’t stopped thinking of Zayn asking if he could kiss him. His mind had run wild, creating scenarios in which that could happen. Of one thing he was sure, if Zayn didn’t kiss him today, he would.

Liam watched Zayn’s eyelashes fluttering when he was close to waking up. He saw a small smile stretching Zayn’s pretty lips, and he tightened his arms around Liam just before he opened his eyes and looked up at him.

“Hey,” Zayn said, softly.

“Hey, yourself. How do you like your pillow?” Liam asked, scratching Zayn’s scalp.

“Hmm…” Zayn closed his eyes, delighted. “Best pillow ever. Can I take it home with me?” he flirted, opening his eyes and looking at Liam through his eyelashes.

Liam chuckled, but didn’t answer, just squeezed Zayn in his arms. Zayn bit his lip and hid his face on Liam’s chest - only an excuse to rub his face on Liam, really. Liam didn’t complain, though, so Zayn left another kiss on his chest. He turned his head to the side, closing his eyes again.

“Are you capable of sleeping on me again?” Liam asked, chuckling. His voice rumbled in his chest sounding even deeper that close.

“Don’t doubt my sleeping skills,” Zayn joked, poking Liam’s abs. “Christ, is your belly made of steel?” he asked, poking it again.

“No, it tickles!” Liam laughed, holding Zayn’s hand.

“Oooh, so you’re ticklish,” Zayn said, raising his head and wiggling his eyebrows comically.

“Ticklish and stronger than you. Do you wanna fight me, Malik?” Liam challenged in a deep voice, joking.

Zayn blinked and swallowed hard with the deepness of Liam voice. Not now, Zayn. He reprimanded himself, changing the focus of his mind. He squinted at Liam in a mock offended way.

“How dare you doubt my strength?” Zayn said, raising his upper body to take matters into his own hands.

Liam prevented his action, holding his arms and rolling them, inverting the positions. He attacked Zayn’s ribs, poking and tickling, making him squirm and laugh hysterically. With some effort, Zayn held one of Liam’s hands. Liam was holding Zayn’s other hand, preventing him from any tickling. Both were giggling, like silly kids.

“Surrender!” Liam demanded, his arms bulging to keep Zayn down. Zayn was stronger than he looked, and Liam had to use more strength than he expected to hold him down.

“Never!” Zayn said, using his feet as a support to push his hips up and dislodge Liam.

Liam held his ground grunting slightly. His snapback had rolled off somewhere in the middle of the fight, but he didn’t look like he cared. Zayn looked at him with a mischievous face and leaned up, biting Liam’s chest. Liam whelped, jumping back a bit. Zayn took the opportunity to free his arms, clutching at Liam’s waist, making him bend backwards from laughter.

Liam was almost breathless, but he held Zayn’s wrists firmly, raising his hands and pinning them over his head. He didn’t thought, just acted on instinct, and bit Zayn’s neck, hard enough to leave a bruise.

Zayn went completely still under him, a shiver running through his body.

“You won,” he whispered and Liam raised his head, an eyebrow lifted.

“Oh, yeah?” Liam asked, cocky.

“Hell yeah,” Zayn breathed and Liam raised his upper body to get off of Zayn, when he felt why exactly he won.

“Oh.” Liam looked at Zayn, feeling his face warm.

“I regret nothing, babe.” Zayn winked.

Liam picked up a corner of the blanket and covered Zayn’s face with it.

“Pervert!” he said, giggling and jumping off Zayn’s body.

“You bit my neck and I’m the perverted one?” Zayn said, laughing and pushing the blanked off his face.

“You bit my chest!” Liam pointed to the bruise that formed where Zayn had bit him.

“It’s not my fault if you didn’t get the memo when I bit you.” Zayn stuck his tongue out, not even a little ashamed.

“And it’s not my fault you’re a pervert and I’m not,” Liam bantered back, throwing pieces of grass at Zayn.

They laughed and bantered back and forth for some time, until Zayn pulled Liam down and cuddled him again. They laid on their sides, chests pressed together and Zayn’s face in Liam’s neck. Liam caressed Zayn’s back and neck softly, his hand pressing slightly over his fantail tattoo.

“I love this tattoo. It’s pretty,” Liam said, softly.

Zayn raised his head to look at his eyes, smiling. “That was one of the things I was curious about you. I didn’t know if you liked tattoos, but then I couldn’t stop getting them.” He shrugged.

“I like the ones I saw until now,” Liam said, touching his cheekbones softly. Zayn fluttered his eyes closed with the touch, leaning on it.

“I like yours too,” Zayn whispered, his eyes still closed, feeling Liam’s touch soothe his soul.

Zayn was so pretty. Even more that way, with his eyes closed and his eyelashes created blurred shadows on his golden skin, his lips wet from his tongue licking them from time to time, his breath soft and comforting. Liam leaned down instinctively, kissing his lips gently.

Liam felt Zayn jump in his arms, but he kept his lips over Zayn’s, just touching softly, feeling the texture of his skin. Zayn released a trembling breath, kissing Liam back just as softly. They didn’t rush into anything, just exchanged small, slow pecks, loaded with care and affection. Their hands touched their faces lovingly, recognizing each other by touch. Liam rubbed Zayn’s stubble, thicker than his own at the time, feeling Zayn do the same at his five o’clock shadow.

When Liam leaned back, Zayn followed him, kissing his eyes, his nose, his cheeks, his forehead, covering every inch of his face with kisses. When he turned back to his mouth, Zayn covered Liam’s lips with his own, sucking softly, making the kiss wetter than before, but just as slow and sweet. Liam stayed there, enjoying Zayn’s attention on him, feeling his heart explode and reconstruct itself back together again inside his chest.

Before the kiss could get more heated, they heard a dog barking and remembered where they were. Zayn smiled against Liam’s lips, leaving a last, soft peck, before leaning back.

“You have the prettiest lips, you know that?” Zayn whispered, touching Liam’s lips. Liam felt his right hand warm, and smiled with a slight blush. “Hmm, was that another imprint appearing?” Zayn asked, teasing.

“I think it was,” Liam admitted.

Zayn’s expression changed, turning from teasing to endeared. “You’re too cute for my sake,” he said, making Liam giggle when his hand heated again.

“Stop it!” he complained, but he was loving it.

“Did I tell you your chest is fucking hot?” Zayn said, ignoring what Liam had said. “I love your chest hair,” he added, rubbing it with his fingers.

“Shut up!” Liam said, holding Zayn’s face and kissing him.

“I loved the way you shut me up,” Zayn mumbled in the middle of the kiss, making Liam laugh.

“Oh my god, you’re impossible!” Liam said, with Zayn trying to keep kissing him.

“You love me!” Zayn said, biting Liam’s chin.

“Yeah, that’s true,” Liam giggled, pinching Zayn’s waist.

“Hey, I’m delicate, stop it,” Zayn said, poking Liam’s waist.

“Are you looking for another tickle fight?” Liam asked, clamping his hands on Zayn’s waist.

“Nah, I just want another bite on my neck,” Zayn teased, and they rolled around again, tickling and laughing like fools.

Some time later, they had calmed down and were cuddling again on the blanket.

“I’m hungry,” Zayn said.

“Is it dinner time already?” Liam asked, looking at his watch. “Oh, wow. It’s past dinner time. I should get you home.”

“You could stay for dinner,” Zayn said, eager to spend more time with Liam.

“No, I couldn’t intrude,” Liam said, shaking his head.

“You won’t intrude. My mom will love to have you there,” he said, and it was true.

“No, I can’t,” Liam said. He would feel too impolite to intrude that way.

“I just want to be with you a bit more,” Zayn admitted, with his eyes downcast, caressing Liam’s arm slowly.

“Oh.” Liam smiled when he heard that. “I can take you to dinner, then.”

“But then, I’d be the one imposing on you. You’ve already made all this stuff for me,” Zayn said.

“No, I’d love to, Zayn. Really,” Liam assured him. “And it’s no problem at all. It’s less scary than meeting the in laws on our first date, don’t you think?”

“You’ve already met my parents.” Zayn huffed a breath.

“So, let’s go get dinner at my parents’, then,” Liam suggested, raising an eyebrow.

Zayn opened his mouth to reply, but stopped. “Okay, you have a point. Let’s go get dinner somewhere else,” he accepted.

Liam kissed his nose and got up to collect the basket, the blanket and his snapback.

“Do you have any suggestions of a place?” Liam asked, once they were inside the car.

“How about some pizza?” Zayn suggested.

“Sounds good to me,” Liam said, going to a pizzeria close to the park.

When they entered, they were greeted by a pleasant waiter who guided them to a table for two. The waiter handed them menus and sent a friendly smile at Liam - too friendly. He left them to pick up their drinks while they chose what they would eat.

When he came back, his smile was even sweeter. He poured Liam’s drink leaning a bit too much in his direction. He asked what they would eat and Zayn chose the first pizza with a chicken topping. Liam chose his and handed the menu back to the waiter. Zayn noticed that the waiter touched Liam’s hand subtly when he pick the menu up. Zayn handed his menu, frowning. The waiter left them and Zayn held Liam’s hand over the table, possessively.

The waiter noticed their hands from afar and, when he came back with the garlic bread, he had changed his behavior to a more professional one. Zayn wanted to kiss Liam right there, but decided that it would be too petty and childish.

“We talked earlier about my studies, but you didn’t tell me what you’re studying,” Zayn said, once the waiter left them.

“Oh, it’s a Fire & Rescue degree,” Liam answered, eating a piece of the garlic bread.

“Do you like it?” Zayn asked the same thing Liam asked when they were talking about his studies. He wanted to know if Liam was happy with his studies, too.

“To be honest, I like the job better. But it’ll help me do better at my job, that’s why I’m taking it,” Liam answered.

“Do you like being a fireman? Isn’t it too dangerous?”

“It has its dangerous moments, yeah, but it’s not everyday. Like, the most dangerous are big fires. Fortunately, they don’t happen too often,” Liam said.

“You think a medium fire isn’t too dangerous?” Zayn chuckled.

“I mean, they can be, yeah? But we’re trained to deal with it. We have equipment to be safe and such,” Liam said. “It’s good work. It makes me feel useful.”

“I’m glad you like it.” Zayn smiled.

“Yeah, thanks.” Liam smiled back. “It’s the job I chose. I’m happy about it. It wasn’t ‘cause of any pressure or anything. I just always liked firemen and thought they were awesome.”

“And now you’re awesome like all the other firemen,” Zayn said, caressing Liam’s hand softly.

Liam felt his hand warm and ducked his head. “You’re doing it again!”

“Oooh, am I?” Zayn winked and Liam pinched his arm. “Ouch,” Zayn pretended to be hurt, but Liam only pinched him again, making him laugh.

They kept chatting, but Zayn noticed that the waiter sent lingering gazes towards Liam from time to time. He didn’t like that, but he wouldn’t make an ass of himself because of it. When the waiter brought their pizza, still clad with a too friendly smile for Liam, Zayn swallowed his jealousy and decided to keep Liam’s attention solely on himself.

To achieve that, he used all the tools he had: his face, basically. Zayn wasn’t conceited, far from that, but he had a mirror at home and he knew the power of his facial expressions. So, he used them. From time to time, he blinked slowly at Liam, half-closing his eyes and fluttering his eyelashes while pouting softly. His plan was working, because every time he did that, he noticed Liam’s breathing change pattern.

“You’re a witch,” Liam said, out of nowhere, making Zayn laugh out loud.

“Why would you say that?” he asked, pressing his pulse to his forehead, sensing that he was caught.

“You’re bewitching me,” Liam said, shaking his head like he was annoyed.

“Is it working, babe?” Zayn flirted, waiting for Liam’s laugh.

“It’s worked quite a few years ago,” Liam said, seriously, making Zayn’s breath catch in his throat and his face warm some more. Liam picked Zayn’s hand up from the table and kissed it, winking at him.

“You idiot,” Zayn said, giggling and kicking him underneath the table. Liam felt his hand warm and he stopped with the fork in the air, blinking at Zayn. “What?” Zayn asked, noticing Liam’s face. And then, he understood, feeling a cold hand squeeze his heart. “Oh, babe… I’m so sorry,” he rushed to say. “I didn’t mean to--”

“Stop, Zayn,” Liam cut him off, shaking his head. “No, babe. Seriously. It was different, don’t worry.” And what a revelation it was, to feel the difference between an offence and some bantering on his skin.

“How can I not worry, Liam?” Zayn said, anxious, leaning over the table to get closer to him. “Babe, I… Shit.”

“Zayn.” Liam put his cutlery on the plate and held Zayn’s both hands. “Babe, seriously. It was different. You weren’t trying to offend me, we’re bantering. It was like…” He took a deep breath. “I don’t want to talk about that, but let me say this. The other ones,” he said and Zayn understood he was talking about the bad ones. “They burned my skin like I was being tattooed for real. These more recent ones felt warm and comfortable. That last one felt that way. You didn’t mean to offend me, and I’m not offended. I was just surprised.”

Zayn had his pretty eyes wide open and shining, looking at Liam while he explained that.

“Yeah, I didn’t mean to offend you,” Zayn said, squeezing Liam’s hands. He was happy Liam realized that too.

“My best mate calls me a cunt on a daily basis,” Liam said, making Zayn chuckle a bit, but he still looked worried. Liam sighed, wanting to change that. “I called you impossible, witch, pervert…” he said, looking at Zayn’s hands and finding those words in the midst of the others. “Did you feel them appearing?”

“Yeah, I did.” Zayn nodded.

“And they didn’t bother you.”

“They didn’t,” Zayn admitted.

“It’s the same for me,” Liam assured him.

“‘Kay,” Zayn said, with a smile so beautiful that Liam wanted to kiss it off his face. “Sorry.”

“No need to be sorry about that, love.” Liam kissed his hand again and let them go gently. “Now let’s eat, yeah?”

Zayn swallowed hard and nodded, turning back to his food. They kept quiet for some time, until Liam asked Zayn about his art and they engaged in easy conversation again.

When they left the pizzeria, the waiter said goodbye with a smile, telling them to come back soon. Zayn frowned and held Liam’s hand. After they left the parking lot, Zayn mumbled:

“He was hitting on you. I didn’t like that.”

“He wasn’t hitting on me,” Liam said, knowing Zayn was talking about the waiter. “He was getting ready to, before he realized we were on a date. It wasn’t in a malicious way.” He was finding Zayn’s jealousy very amusing.

“How didn’t he realize it as soon as we got in? I mean, we arrived together, asked for a table for two. Is he dumb?” Zayn said, annoyed, while Liam chuckled.

“He would never guess. Not with your hands covered in soulmate imprints and mine apparently clear,” Liam said, biting his lip, losing some of the humour.

Zayn hadn’t thought about that. It made sense, which was disheartening.

“Still. He shouldn’t assume anything. He should act like a professional. It’s what he was supposed to do, it’s what we’re paying him to do,” Zayn said, his annoyance blended with a bit of sadness. “And after he realized we were on a date, he kept staring at you.”

“Well, yeah. I guess you’re right,” Liam said, quietly.

Zayn licked his lips and took a deep breath. Since he first saw Liam at his home earlier, he wanted to ask why he was covering his imprints again. It was something that bothered him, because now he had good imprints on his hands. Zayn would dare say that, as of now, he had more cute imprints than ugly ones.

“I know you asked me not to talk about your imprints,” Zayn started to ask, and Liam’s grip on the wheel tensed. “I just-- I won’t ask about the past, exactly. I just wanna know why you covered them again.”

Liam sighed tiredly and wetted his lips. He glanced briefly at Zayn and turned his attention back to the road.

“I can’t show them because of my work,” he answered.

“But-- You showed them before, at your school and…” Zayn was confused.

“To be a part of the Fire Department, I needed to prove I was emotionally stable. Going there with a soulmate imprint saying ‘I hate you’ would be a guarantee of emotional instability,” Liam explained.

Zayn nodded, understanding. “But wouldn’t you be in trouble if they find out? I mean, they could find out from your teenage pictures, or from your mates? Or, dunno, the makeup could wear off…” he didn’t say ‘like it happened at school’, but Liam knew why he was saying that.

“Yeah, I would, but I’m always careful with the makeup. I perfected it with the years,” he said, sadly. “And my mates wouldn’t betray me. To be honest, they don’t even know I hide them because of my work. They think it’s just because I got ashamed and they pretend the imprints don’t exist,” Liam said.

Zayn nodded again, and kept quiet the rest of the way back home.

When they arrived at Zayn’s house, Liam got out of the car to walk Zayn to the door. Zayn smiled and held Liam’s hand.

“You’re such a gentleman…” he said and kissed Liam’s shoulder.

Liam giggled and let go of Zayn’s hand to put his arm over his shoulders. Zayn wrapped Liam’s waist with both his arms and they tumbled to the door, giggling. When they got there, Zayn hugged Liam, hiding his face on his neck. He kissed it softly and raised his head.

“Thanks for today,” he said, smiling.

“You’re welcome,” Liam said, smiling too. “I had a great time.”

“Me too,” Zayn said, leaning in and kissing Liam’s lips softly. “I don’t want you to go,” he said. He had this feeling in his chest that Liam would be cold towards him once they were apart.

“I don’t wanna leave you too, babe,” Liam said, kissing his forehead.

“You could come in,” Zayn said. “We could watch something in my bedroom and chill.”

Liam smiled. “Sounds lovely. How about another day?” he suggested, instead.

Zayn sighed. “Okay,” he said, ducking his head, a bit sad.

“Don’t be like that,” Liam said, touching Zayn’s chin and raising his face. “It’s not like I’m leaving town.”

Zayn wanted to say that when they weren’t together, he missed Liam so much, but that would sound too clingy. He touched Liam’s jaw and caressed it softly, feeling the prickle of his five o’clock shadow, looking at his mouth.

“You’re doing that again,” Liam whispered, and Zayn looked up at his eyes. “Bewitching me.”  

Zayn licked his lips, holding Liam’s gaze. “Is it working?”

Liam huffed a breath and covered Zayn’s mouth with his, in a heated kiss. Zayn held Liam’s head with both his hands, pushing Liam’s snapback onto the ground, forgetting where he was, lost in the kiss. Liam licked his bottom lip and Zayn parted them, sucking Liam’s tongue into his mouth hungrily, a soft moan leaving his throat. Liam pulled his tongue out from Zayn’s mouth slowly, making him whine quietly and close his fists in Liam’s hair to keep him close. Liam gasped at the unexpected - and delicious - pain, his body catching fire with the gesture. His arm around his waist pressed them together tightly, and one of his hands fisted Zayn’s hair while he devoured his mouth. He coaxed Zayn’s tongue into his mouth and tugged his hair, making his neck bend backwards a bit. Zayn moaned inside the kiss, a shiver coursing through his body. He felt weak in the knees, and his cock twitched inside his pants. When Liam noticed that, he leaned back, breaking the kiss.

“Fuck…” Zayn mumbled, his chest heaving, gasping breaths leaving his mouth. Liam tucked his head in Zayn’s neck, his breath heavy as well.

“We shouldn’t do that out here,” Liam mumbled, chuckling against Zayn’s skin.

“Yeah, you’re right. Come inside with me,” Zayn said, his breath still laboured.

Liam raised his head, chuckling. His lips were pinker than before, a soft blush dusting his face and chest. Zayn licked his lips instinctively.

“Stop doing that!” Liam said, laughing and let go of Zayn, taking a step back.

“Nooo, don’t!” Zayn complained, clinging onto Liam. “I’m not doing anything!”

“You are! You’re looking at me like you were taking my clothes off in your mind!” Liam giggled, but let Zayn hug him.

“Was not!” Zayn said, joking, but he was actually ripping Liam’s clothes off in his head. “It’s not my fault you’re this hot.” He bit Liam’s shoulder softly.

“Hey!” Liam reprimanded him, pulling his hair again to raise his head.

“See, it’s your fault! You’re the one doing things!” Zayn said, pretending he would bite Liam again. Liam held his hair firmly, but not enough to hurt. If Zayn wanted, he could free his head easily.

“You’re impossible,” Liam said, clicking his tongue.

“I love you,” Zayn said, his eyes softening.

“I love you too,” Liam said, caressing his scalp. He kissed Zayn’s lips softly, smiling when he leaned back. “It’s my time to go.”

“Okay.” Zayn sighed and stepped back.

“Goodnight, Zayn,” Liam smiled, picking his snapback up from the ground and turning to go.

“Wait!” Zayn said, holding his hand. “We didn’t take a picture.” He pulled his phone from his pocket.

Liam shook his head, exasperated but endeared at the same time. He let Zayn take some pictures of them in a lot of angles and poses.

“Great. Love them,” Zayn said, looking at the pictures fondly before pocketing his phone again. “Night, love,” he said and hugged Liam by the neck, kissing him slow and hot.

When they broke the kiss, Liam smiled, pecked his lips once more and turned to leave again. But he stopped and came back close to Zayn.

“I would prefer if you didn’t publish any of our pictures,” he said to Zayn.

Zayn frowned. “Why?”

“I prefer that we keep our relationship private for now,” he answered.

Zayn nodded, he wasn’t happy with that, but he accepted Liam’s decision. “Okay, babe. Anything you want.”

Liam waved and turned back, this time going home.

Zayn went to his bedroom and fell onto his bed. He stared at the ceiling, smiling like a loon.

“I guess it went well,” his mom said from the door, making him jump.

“You scared me, mom,” he said, frowning a bit, but smiling again quickly. “And yeah, it went pretty awesome, to be honest.”

“I'm glad for you, baby,” she said, entering and closing the door. She sat on Zayn’s bed, close to him, and touched his hair. “Even though I prefer if you two don’t make out in front of our door, I understand the sentiment.”

“Sorry about that,” Zayn said, feeling his face heat.

“That’s okay, love. Just try not to do that again. You might scandalize our neighbours. Such good and pure people, you know,” she said, sarcastically.

Zayn snorted a laugh, nodding. Their neighbours were the worst kind of gossips.

“It was so great, mom. I’m blissed out,” Zayn said, sighing.

“I can see it on your face, my love,” Trisha said, smiling.

“He didn’t want me to post our picture on social media, though,” he said.

“It’s understandable. He’s still working on trusting you.”

“Yeah. I guess I have to wait,” Zayn mumbled.

“Yeah.”

Zayn looked at the ceiling, thinking about his imprints. For the first time he was questioning why they were still on their hands. Weren’t they supposed to disappear once we found each other? He asked himself.

“Mom,” he called.

“Yeah?”

“Why do we still have the imprints? Weren’t they supposed to disappear once we met each other?” he asked.

“Not really, babe,” she said. “They’ll disappear once you two get together.”

“But… Aren’t we together already?”

“I don’t know, babe. Are you?” she asked.

“I am with him,” he said. “But he probably isn’t with me yet.”

When Liam got home, he took off the makeup from his hands, finding the new additions: ‘Prettiest lips’, ‘Hot chest’, ‘I love your chest hair’, ‘Gentleman’, ‘I love the way you shut me up’ and the ‘Idiot’. He smiled at the ‘Idiot’. Even the type of the letters were different from his firsts imprints. While the older ones were in bold capitals, this one was a soft cursive.

Liam smiled, wanting to take a picture of his new imprints and send to Zayn. He even picked up his phone, but decided not to. He would end up sending the bad ones too, and he didn’t know how Zayn would react. They needed to have that conversation face to face, yet.

He scrolled up the conversation and saw the link Zayn sent the other day. He could see it was a picture of a drawing of an eye, and by the caption he realized it was his eye. He hadn’t clicked on it before because he wasn’t feeling ready to see the comments. But now he thought he would be okay seeing it.

He clicked on the link and felt a bit shy staring at his own eye on the screen. He had drawn that before knowing it was me? He was impressed. He looked the comments and snorted when he saw Niall’s. He smiled when he saw Zayn’s answer to Niall’s comment. He debated with himself if he should leave a comment, and decided he could.

“it’s truly beautiful x” There. He thought. Nothing much, but he acknowledged the drawing.

Not even two seconds later, Zayn liked his comment and answered: “the real one is way more beautiful ;) xx”

Liam smiled and refreshed the page, and a new picture was posted. He clicked on it and there was a picture of Zayn’s hand with his new imprints.

“Today was our 1st date and he called me a pervert and a witch. I think it went really well. I’m blissed out. Miss you already. xx”

Under it Liam saw a comment made by Louis and liked by Zayn: “aww aren’t you two disgusting”.

Liam giggled and liked the picture. He decided it would be best not leave any comments.

He was getting ready for bed, when his phone vibrated with an incoming message.

“can i c u tomorrow?” attached was a picture of Zayn, with his lower lip stuck out, pouting.

Liam decided to play with him a bit, and snapped a selfie laying on his bed, shirtless, with his head on the pillow.

“sure babe. what time?” He put the caption on the picture and sent it.

“shiiiiiiit” Zayn sent as soon as he got the message. “fucking hell liam! u almost made me cum earlier with that kiss now u wanna kill me” Liam giggled with that message. “that’s not right” came quickly after.

“u love it ;-P” he sent. “how about i pick you up at 3ish?”

“thats tru i love it. i love you” Zayn sent. “3ish is good”.

“see you 2morrow. gnight. xx” Liam sent and turned his phone off.

--

The next day, it was Zayn who opened the door when Liam arrived at his house. He had a big smile on his face, looking even prettier, if that was possible.

“Hey, babe,” Zayn said, closing the door and leaning close to kiss his lips softly. “Where are we going?” he asked, holding Liam’s hand while they walked to the car.

“I was thinking of taking you to my place. We can watch some movies and chill. What do you think?” Liam asked.

“It sounds great.” Zayn smiled. He loved to stay at home and chill. It was his anti-social side speaking.

Liam nodded, smiling, and took Zayn to his flat.

When they got there, Niall was on the couch with a long haired man. They were watching the British Bake Off, and raised their heads when they noticed them at the door. Zayn tensed a bit, because he didn’t expect that there would be anyone beside Liam and Niall.

“Zayn, this is my mate Harry. Harry, this is Zayn,” Liam introduced them.

Harry got up from the couch to shake Zayn’s hand firmly.

“Nice to finally meet you, Zayn,” he said in a deep, slow draw. He looked friendly enough, and Zayn smiled a bit.

“Nice to meet you too,” he said, nodding. “And hi, Niall.” he greeted.

“Hey, Zayn.” Niall nodded at him, and turned back to the TV.

Harry went back to the couch with a last smile in Zayn’s direction.

Liam pulled Zayn to his bedroom, smiling. When he closed the door, Niall shouted: “Remember the walls are thin!”

“Fuck off, Nialler!” Liam said, laughing, with his face dusted in pink.

“And be safe, boys!” Harry shouted.

“Shut up, you two!” Liam shouted, shaking his head.

Zayn chuckled and hugged him. “You don’t need to be safe with me. I’m clean because I’m a virgin,” he said, wiggling his eyebrows.

Liam rolled his eyes. “Don’t be silly,” he said, kissing Zayn’s nose.

Zayn giggled, but didn’t insist on the subject. It was true that he was a virgin. He waited for Liam since his first imprint appeared, not interested in a meaningless fuck. But that wasn’t the best moment to talk about it. And he had to prepare himself for the possibility of Liam not being a virgin, too.

“What do you prefer, queueing something up on Netflix or a DVD?” Liam asked, guiding Zayn to his double bed.

“I’m fine with anything, babe. Really. I just wanna cuddle you, I doubt I’ll pay attention to anything besides you,” Zayn said, honestly, taking off his shoes and sitting on the bed.

“I’ll put some music on, then,” Liam said, smiling. He wasn’t interested in anything besides being close to Zayn too. He turned his laptop on and put the player on shuffle. “Let me just take these off. I’ll be right back,” he said raising his hands, and left the room.

Zayn understood what he was talking about immediately, and bit his lips. It would be the first time after the rugby game that Liam would show his imprints freely.

A few minutes later, Liam entered the room with his hands clean. He laid down on his bed and pulled Zayn to cuddle with him. Zayn breathed on Liam’s scent, closing his eyes and relaxing.

Liam wasn’t relaxed. He had spent a good part of the previous night thinking about talking with Zayn. He wasn’t ready to talk about the most traumatic phase of his life, but he wasn’t sure he would ever feel ready. His counselor asked him to access his feelings and decide how he would deal with everything, but advised him to not rush.

He accepted her advice, but, at the same time, he wanted to stay close to Zayn. Only the ‘get to know you without talking about my imprints’ deal wasn’t working for him, really. He wanted to know why Zayn had said those things in the first place, even though it would hurt. Even more, he wanted to know if Zayn had really changed his mind, or if he was acting that way because he was his soulmate and had accepted his fate.

“Zayn,” he called, softly.

“Yeah?” Zayn’s voice was sleepy.

“Do you wanna take a nap?” he asked instead, stalling.

“I’m comfortable, so, wanting or not, I’ll probably fall asleep,” he said, chuckling. “Unless you have something better in mind?” He raised his head, smirking.

“What I have in mind isn’t better exactly, but it’s necessary,” Liam said, his tone uncertain.

“Oh.” Zayn got one hundred percent alert when he heard that. “What do you wanna do, babe?”

“I--” Liam started to say, but cut himself off. He looked at Zayn and sighed. “Let’s sit?”

Zayn frowned, but went with it, sitting in front of Liam with his ankles crossed. He felt anxious with the sudden distance Liam was putting between them. So, he leaned close to Liam and held his hands. He wanted to say he was sorry, but Liam hadn’t said anything yet, so he waited.

“I wished I didn’t care about any of this, but…” Liam started to say, and ducked his head. “The truth is that I care and, even though I forgave you, I still think about it a lot and… I just want to know why.” He finally looked at Zayn’s face. “I mean, I never did anything to you, like, ever. I didn’t even talk to you. And in our first interaction you…” he shrugged, looking down again. “And like, you didn’t use to treat people bad. For some time I questioned myself if I ever did anything to you without noticing. So, why?”

Zayn listened him speak, his heart breaking for the way Liam was. He was slightly hunched in on himself, looking down, seeming ashamed, when the one who should be ashamed was Zayn. When he finished, Zayn took a deep breath.

“I was stupid and fucked up. I always saw the way you were treated, and feared to be treated the same way if I defended you. But then, I started to like you,” Liam frowned at that, but Zayn kept going on. “But I didn’t realize it at the time. I thought I just had a soft spot for you, because you were really cute. And when I noticed that, I got scared Percy would notice too and start to bully me as well. I feared to put myself in a position in which I could lose the support of my friends and--” Zayn cut himself.

“Be one of the losers,” Liam completed for him.

Zayn was ashamed, but nodded. “I was stupid. I shouldn’t do that. Even if you weren’t my soulmate. You didn’t deserve that. I should have grown a pair and told them it was stupid to say shit about someone who didn’t deserve it.”

“So, you said those things because you didn’t want to get bullied?” Liam asked.

“The firsts times, yeah.”

“Even when we bumped?” Liam frowned.

“That time I was angry about a lot of things going wrong that day, and Ant and Danny were teasing me. I reacted in the worst way possible. I didn’t think clearly, just blurted the first thing that came to my mouth. I wish I could say I had any reason to snap at you, but I didn’t. I was just plain stupid and awful. Just like any bully.” Zayn’s head was bowed. “At least I realized that when people started to laugh. I felt awful, but Ant and Danny spurred me on into being a bigger ass.”

Liam let go a long huff of air after that. “So, you were just an ass?”

“Yeah. And not only with you. With anyone my friends thought was a good laugh. But I felt awful every time I said anything bad about you. That’s what shows how stupid I was, because I felt like shit, but didn’t realize I felt that way because you are my soulmate.” Zayn sniffed, still not looking at Liam.

“That’s…” Liam didn’t know how to finish. “Fuck. You were only a stupid kid thinking it was okay being a brat to get rid of bad attention,” he concluded.

“I didn’t think it was okay, I just went with the flow. I knew it was wrong and kept doing it because everyone was doing the same. Which makes my behavior even worse.”

“Yeah, it does, indeed,” Liam said, gruffly.

Zayn raised his head and squeezed Liam’s hands, not allowing him to let go.

“But I changed, Liam,” he said, earnestly. “I changed. Even before we met at that fire. I changed and stopped being stupid that way. And I’m so sorry that my stupidity made you suffer so much.”

Liam sighed and bowed his head.

“It’s just-- It’s so hard for me to believe you said you hated me because you wanted to make your friends think you were cool,” Liam admitted, sounding defeated.

“That time wasn’t about that,” Zayn whispered, ashamed. He wished he never needed to expose that part of himself, but Liam deserved the truth.

Liam raised his head, frowning. “What was it about, then?”

Zayn swallowed hard. “I was angry at you,” he whispered.

“What did I do to you that day? It was the day of the rugby game at your school. I was polite to you, even though I wanted to run in the opposite direction,” Liam didn’t understand.

“That day I tried to find your social media. I wanted to stalk you a bit, because you were hot. I got frustrated, because I didn’t find any. And then, my dad came into my bedroom to ask if I knew you, saying you were a great kid… You are everything my father wanted in a son, and I’m the opposite. You like sports and do well on them, you even had a tryout to the Olympics…” Liam tensed more at that and Zayn looked at him. He hadn’t passed the tryouts. “Sorry for touching the subject.” he said, thinking Liam tensed because he didn’t like to talk about it. Then, he remembered that that was one of the occasions he said something bad about him. He felt a cold shiver run through his body while he looked at Liam’s stony face. He didn’t want to ask, but he needed to know. He had to know the extent of the consequences of his actions in Liam’s life. “It was because of me? You didn’t pass the tryouts because of me?” he whispered, anguished.

Liam pressed his lips together, trembling slightly. Zayn was looking at him expectantly, his pretty eyes shiny with unshed tears. Liam licked his lips, not knowing how to tell him.

“I-- It was-- I had an anxiety crisis that day. It was my first real anxiety crisis and I was in no condition to pass the tryouts the next day,” Liam said.

“You had an anxiety crisis that day,” Zayn whispered, horrified. “Your first. Was it because I said shit about you?” There was a knot in his throat, his heart beating fast.

Liam sniffed and shrugged. “I had spent a whole year without seeing you and without any imprints showing up. I thought you had forgot me. And then, I appeared on TV and you remembered me, I guess. I was shocked.” He didn’t want to say he was hoping Zayn would like seeing him on TV, but what had happened was the contrary. “I think it was the shock and the stress that made me react that way.”

“The shock?” Zayn gasped, letting Liam’s hands go. “It wasn’t any shock, Liam. You’re a fireman. You know how to deal with shocking situations,” Zayn said.

“I wasn’t a fireman at the time,” Liam mumbled.

“It doesn’t matter! You had it in you, the ability to deal with stressing situations. You had an anxiety crisis because it was me. Shit. I ruined one of the most important days of your life. Fucking hell.” Zayn put his elbows on his thighs and held his head with both hands. “Fuck… I’m so sorry. Sorry doesn’t even come close to how guilty I feel right now. And it doesn’t come even close to how bad you felt. Shit, shit, shit!”

Liam kept quiet, silent tears sliding down his face. Zayn was crying too, wiping his eyes from time to time, cursing in whispers.

“And then, the next year I said I hated you,” Zayn whispered, his head bowed in his hands, his eyes closed, ashamed. “Fucking hell. How did you deal with all this crap without going insane?” he asked, but wasn’t expecting an answer.

“I go to a counselor since I changed schools,” Liam said.

Zayn nodded. It makes sense. He thought. I made my soulmate go into an anxiety crisis. ”Fuck… I dunno how you can look at my face,” he mumbled.

“Because you’re my soulmate,” Liam whispered.

“In other words, you don’t have a choice,” Zayn said, sniffing.

“You don’t have any choice either,” Liam said, sadly.

“I don’t need to have any choice. You’re perfect,” Zayn said, raising his head.

“I’m not. You’re just feeling guilty,” Liam said, sadly. They weren’t perfect, but while Zayn felt that way, they wouldn’t be able to work things out. Liam had already noticed that Zayn tended to do anything he wanted to compensate for his mistakes, and that wasn’t good in the long run.

“I am guilty, Liam. That’s why I’m feeling guilty,” Zayn said, wiping the tears on his face roughly. “Did you keep having an anxiety crisis after that?” he asked, noticing Liam had said that it was his first anxiety crisis.

“Not frequently, no,” Liam answered.

“You had them in which frequency?”

“I had only one more,” Liam said.

“And when was that?” Zayn asked, with a dark suspicion in his mind.

Liam sighed quietly. He rubbed his face with his hands, his mind troubled. He knew Zayn was suspecting correctly. Zayn was waiting for Liam’s answer with bated breath.

“It was the day you said you hate me, yeah,” Liam said, sounding terribly sad, without looking up.

“You should have a choice to pick someone better than me,” Zayn blurted, with his voice trembling.

“You’re the right person for me, Zayn. That’s why we’re soulmates,” Liam said, touching his arms. Zayn was shaking his head, not accepting that he could be considered any good for Liam. “You have changed, you said it yourself. Even though you hurt me so much, I don’t want anyone but you.” Liam pulled Zayn to his lap, breathing a relieved puff of air when he went willingly. “We’re gonna work this out, babe. Me and you, together.”

It took some time for Zayn to calm down, but eventually he napped in Liam’s arms. He still felt guilty, but Liam knew they were taking the steps in the right direction.

CHAPTER 4 (AO3)