#maybe i can tuck both projects into my bag hmmm

[dandyshucks]

okay this morning is going so well actually YAY i am considering bringing the janitor plush to the group today to work on bc i want to get his hair done and i keep procrastinating bc it seems difficult fhdksl so maybe if i bring it to the group then I'll force myself to work on it there... but also i have a dragon scale dice bag that im restarting and would like to complete fairly quickly so hmmm

[blissfulalchemist]

“Oh! So we’re keeping score now?” + “Are you forgetting who my parents are?” + “Two can play at that game.” For Liz and Wyatt? 😘😘😘

“Are you forgetting who my our parents are?” had a little change there. 

Tiny Dancer living on main in a 6.8k debut!

The end of the day shrill overtook the hallway as Liz organized her textbooks, getting the ones that she needed together for the weekend ahead. Ideally she should just bring all of them home with her, get a head start on some of the history report due before the holiday break. Wyatt though seemed to have other plans as he pleaded with Liz, “Come on, Liz,” he leaned on his shoulder against the lockers, black hair falling into his eyes, “You never come out with me. It’s just one little party.”

Liz laughed slamming the locker shut, “I have been to parties with you Wyatt. I just can’t go out this weekend. I’m grounded, remember.”

“Ugh, you’re always grounded,” he leaned back against the lockers looking up to the ceiling, eyes quickly looking down to her, “What did you get grounded for again? Was it the billboard or ditching class for the protest in Missoula?”

“They were one and the same Wyatt,” she reminded him, “but the ditching school is the official story,” Liz poked his arm, cocking an eyebrow, “and that’s how it’s gonna stay.”

“You know what I don’t get?” He turned to look down at her, “Why haven’t they just made you live with your dad? Seems like he can control you better and you get to see the world.”

Liz gave him a smirk, “Have you met me Wyatt? I’d have been wanted in three countries by now, forcing me to be on the run.” Liz patted his chest, “Better I just get in trouble here in the states.”

The two laughed as Wyatt pushed himself off the lockers, making their way to the auditorium, Wyatt putting his arm around her shoulders, “Seriously though Liz, why can’t you just ask to come with me?”

“Why does this party matter so much to you anyway?” Liz stepped away from him walking backwards a few steps pointing to him, “Or better question, why is it so important that I go with you to this one?”

He gave an exasperated sigh, “Mom and dad said I couldn’t go unless you’d be there with me,” he rolled his eyes brushing his hair out of his eyes, “Something about the buddy system or something like that.”

“Haven’t you gone to parties without me before though?”

“Yeah to people that didn’t have the reputation Kobie Wicks does though,” Oh that’s why, “You’ve heard the kind of parties he throws, his parents having all that money and their house. I mean I’m not wanting to party at the same level as some of the other attendees but still you know how it can be.”

She turned, flipping her hair, “If your parents won’t let you go, what makes you think that mom and dad will let me go?” The two opened the door to the auditorium, setting their things down in the back rows, the chatter of other students hushing their voices, “Especially while I’m supposed to be grounded. Pretty sure that’s why Tia said no to you.”

He gave a shrug of his shoulders, “Then lie about why you need to be out tomorrow night,” he grabbed his change of clothes from the bag, looking at the clock on the wall, “We can tell your parents that we have a project to work on and then we tell mine that you were allowed to go.” 

Liz crossed her arms, brow raising as she looked up to him, “Wyatt,” he smiled, eyes hopeful, “are you forgetting who our parents are?” He shook his head, Liz giving him a light punch on the arm, “So what makes you think that’ll work? It’s not like our parents just met once we became friends you know? They were all friends way before we were even thoughts in their heads. They’d call our bluff faster than we could even tell them.” She shook her head, bending down to change her shoes, “There’s no way around this Wyatt. I know you want to go, but there’s nothing we can do to make this work.”

“You know, still doesn’t seem fair that you get to rehearse in your everyday clothes for the musical,” he grumbled, quickly hiding himself in the soundbooth to switch pants.

“Well it would be more accurate for Mamma Mia if I was able to stay in my boots though with my overalls,” Liz rolled her eyes, “But no, I could hurt my ankle. Not like I haven’t climbed out of windows or up trees in them before.”

Wyatt’s eyes lit up as he walked back out to her, quickly changing his shirt, “There is one thing we can do,” he gave Liz a smirk leaning closer to her, “We can both just sneak out.”

“Sneak out?” He nodded, “You want to sneak out and go to a party neither of us would ever be allowed to go to,” she crossed her arms looking up at him.

“Yeah,” Wyatt’s blue-green eyes flicked to the stage seeing the last of the other student actors straggling in, “We just take a page out of Uncle Chance’s book and we just sneak out. Those parties run late into the night and early morning, so we’ll be back before any of them wake up.”

“Wessy is always up early though,” Liz pointed out.

Wyatt scoffed, “What you think he comes and checks up on me when he wakes up and tucks me in again?” Liz gave a quick raise of her eyebrows shrugging, “And your mom sleeps in, so we won’t be found out.”

“You think you have this all thought out don’t you?” He nodded, Liz rolled her eyes. A smile like that only meant he was gonna do it either way at this point, someone had to save him from himself, “Well if we do this you have to figure out how we get there,” Wyatt’s smile grew holding his hand up for a high five, “and when you figure that out text me in our code so we can pull this off.”

“You got it, Lizzy,” she rolled her eyes, slapping her hand against his, “Just watch it’s gonna be worth it. We’ll have so much fun.” I hope so Wyatt. I hope so, the teacher called for them to take their places on the stage, their planning cut short.

Saturday night came and Liz couldn’t help but pace around her room making sure everything was how it should be, all in an attempt to make sure that no one was going to come and check up on her. Not that anyone would but she still couldn’t help but worry about it. Liz felt she really shouldn’t have been seeing as she snuck out before this, maybe it was just the destination this time that had her on edge. She didn’t even like going to the parties all the time, no one really liked her and it felt being at parties made her reputation tank more than raise it. At least this time she tried to look like she could fit in, taking another look at the skinny jeans, off shoulder floral print crop top, and black suede heeled booties. The top was tighter than she was used to, in fact the whole outfit was, and for once she did her hair and makeup to match the girls at school, she actually looked like someone her age, or well those that were cooler than her at school. 

Her phone dinged with a picture of a golden retriever, her signal that Wyatt was there and time for her to make her way down the side of the house. Liz slipped her purse across her body, grabbing the wooden wedge as she slipped out the window. She lodged the wedge in place keeping the window open enough to let her back in by the end of the night. Liz looked down to the ground making sure her feet rested on the top of the window on the first floor, before shuffling over to make herself closer to the fence surrounding the house. Once there she easily made her way down it, this stunt normally done in her taller go-go boots. She landed on the grass silently, Wyatt’s arms helping in making her fall quieter in the still night. She smiled up at him brushing the dirt off her knees. 

He waved for her to follow him, placing her on his back once they reached the concrete, stopping her heeled shoes from giving them away. Once a safe distance he placed her back on the ground, “Car’s just a little farther away,” he whispered, stuffing his hands in the pockets of the old leather jacket.

“How did you manage to get the car without them knowing?” Liz asked, a little impressed, rubbing her upper arms, she should have grabbed something with longer sleeves.

“Just borrowed one from Tommy, said I needed it for a project,” he explained, pulling the keys out, “Which means I get it until tomorrow afternoon without any questions.”

Liz shook her head holding back her laughter, “Tommy is too nice to you sometimes Wyatt. What did you agree to give him this time?” She smirked as he held the door open for her, “Not another week of slavery I hope.”

He slammed the door taking his place in the driver’s seat, “A dance lesson. Wants to impress some girl at a cotillion so that’s what I get to do next week.”

“I see no difference Wyatt,” Liz turned on the radio, checking her makeup and hair in the small car mirror, “That boy has two left feet. I should know, I had the bruises after homecoming to prove it.”

He laughed making his way to the main road, “Well then I will endure for us having some unsanctioned fun. When was the last time we did?”

“Hmmm, pretty sure the sophomore summer grounding,” Liz responded, reapplying her lipstick.

Wyatt thought a moment before laughing, “Oh yeah! That was the year you helped the seniors pull off their prank. I still believe you were in the right to help them, the principal deserved it, he was a dick most of the time.”

“Thank you! At least you’re still in my corner for that one,” she flashed him a smile as he kept his eyes on the road, “I would have gotten off Scott free if I didn’t have to put my political statement on the prank, cause I was young and stupid.”

Wyatt looked over to Liz as she adjusted her outfit, “You went with something different tonight?” She looked down, eyes wide, “No, no, not in a bad way. It looks nice Liz,” he focused back on the road clearing his throat, “Still like your normal style but you look really nice. Might have to keep people off of ya.”

She looked away hiding the small blush coming to her cheeks, “I think I can handle myself Wyatt.”

“Oh I know but there might be too many for you to take on all at once. I gotta help you, we’re a tag team you and me.” He pulled up to the party, parking behind a small line of cars along the driveway, the bass shaking the windows. The two looked at each other smiling, hearts pounding to the beat of the music, “Okay we still gotta drive so no hard liquor and max-. What time is it?” 

Liz looked to her phone, “Eleven thirty.”

“Okay so max three drinks with equal or more parts water slash non-alcoholic drinks. Got it?” Liz nodded, Wyatt taking a deep breath, “Alright, let’s do this.”

“Wait,” she grabbed his arm, “What time does our carriage turn into a pumpkin?”

Wyatt thought for a moment, “Three just to play it safe.” The two nodded, performing their secret handshake before stepping out of the car. The lights were dimmed and accented by the flowing colors of a few light fixtures ranging from disco balls to star projectors, the outdoor areas with regular lighting. From the looks of it every one of the upperclassmen were in attendance, including a few recent graduates from the year before, each one a different level of intoxication and high. Wyatt’s eyes scanned the room spotting a few drinking games, varying dance floors, and other games that seemed to be getting started, Liz wide eyed as she took it in.

“Where do we start tonight, Brooks?” Liz asked a smile coming to her face, noticing the few stares the two of them were getting, eyes lingering on her more. “Drinks then dancing?”

“You read my mind,” he smiled pulling her to the kitchen getting their night started. The two bounced throughout the activities separating at times when Liz got held up in conversation or Wyatt decided to try his hand at seven minutes in heaven, he only got lucky two out of the six times he tried. The attention Liz got felt unnerving to her as people couldn’t stop talking to her, pulling her to the dance floor, or offering her drinks. People that never paid much mind to her in school were suddenly acting as if they had been friends forever. A single night where Liz didn’t feel like such an outcast and she was actually enjoying it….until she nearly got thrown into the pool by a football player. Wyatt managed to help pull her away just in time, walking them to a beer pong table.

“Thanks for that,” she yelled, making sure he heard her over the music.

“It’s no problem. That’s the fifth time tonight I’ve had to save you,” he laughed ruffling her hair.

She pushed his hand away, “Oh! So we’re keeping score now? Cause if I recall I’ve saved you from three girls, two boyfriends of said girls, an ex of yours, and yourself from jumping off the roof.”

Wyatt waved her off, “I was gonna be fine and you know it,” he took a sip of his drink, Liz noticing that it didn’t look like the beer they were supposed to be drinking, “You just didn’t want me to take the attention away from you.”

Liz gave a loud laugh, “You were gonna biff it,” she pointed to his cup curious, “Thought no hard liquor tonight?” He looked down to it giving her a sheepish smile, Liz stopping any explanation from him, “Don’t worry about it, I’m on drink two so I’ll stop and drive us home. You can stay with me tonight.”

“Won’t that defeat the idea of us sneaking out though?” Wyatt asked, his body starting to move along to the music.

Liz shook her head, “Nah. We just say you had a hard night and needed a friend. They can’t fault us for that.”

His eyes went wide, “Won’t they think we’re together though? Like together together.” 

She rolled her eyes playfully putting her hand on his shoulder, “Wyatt, the minute they start thinking that is the minute we call them seniors, cause they’re blind as hell.”

The two almost toppled over as Carmina embraced them from behind, “Hey you two,” her blue eyes looking between them, “Can I request you two love birds’ presence on the dance floor?”

Liz rolled her eyes, feeling her cheeks getting warm, “We’re not together, Carmina. Don’t know how many times I have to remind you of that.”

“Then don’t look like you are,” she teased, grabbing their hands, “Come on let’s go dance!”

Liz and Wyatt followed her out to the floor getting lost in the music that played, the two ignoring the time as it passed. Liz had felt herself sobering up as she and Wyatt worked their through more games, conversations, and meeting the new friends Carmina had made at the community college. The three of them had just finished making their way through beating everyone at darts, and even with the slight sway in Wyatt, he was making near dead center shots, collecting the twenty dollar bet against a recent graduate by the time Liz looked to the clock on her phone, eyes growing wide.

She brought the phone screen up to Wyatt, “We gotta go!”

He was ready to laugh her off when he saw the clock reading four in the morning, “Oh fuck!” They left Carmina’s side without a goodbye Wyatt having to stop setting his drink down reaching for the keys in his coat pocket, his fumbling hands dropping them. Liz reached down to get them, a football player snatching them first, “Hey give them here!” Wyatt called out.

“Hey Jason,” their classmate called out, catching the eye of a teammate of his, “Catch!”

“Hey!” Liz yelled running to try and catch the keys before Jason did. His taller frame had him snatching them from the air. “Give those here Jason!”

He smirked, tossing them back to his friend, Wyatt trying to catch them to no avail, “Catch them and you can have them.” The keys were tossed towards Liz again, jumping up to try and catch them, Jason holding her to the ground. 

“Now you’re just playing dirty,” she glared up at him, hands on her hips.

Jason gave her a shrug holding the keys above her, “We can always work out another deal you know,” her eyes narrowed watching as his grey eyes moved up her body slowly, “You don’t have to leave the party just yet.”

“Fuck no,” she tried to jump for them again, Wyatt coming up behind her, “Now give them back!”

Wyatt took the distraction to snatch the keys back, earning a glare from Jason, “Come on Liz let’s get out of here,” Wyatt said pushing her towards the door.

“I won’t be so nice next time Jason! I can promise you that,” Liz called out before leaving the house, Wyatt handing her the keys. “Stupid Jason thinking he can get what he wants just by playing stupid games,” Liz grumbled opening the passenger door for Wyatt, “He’s got another thing coming, cause two can play at that game. Doesn’t even know that I have the power to fail him in math class.”

“Liz,” Wyatt said softly as she started the car, she glanced at him with her brown eyes, “forget about him. He’s just some jerk. Not worth being petty over.”

She sighed putting the radio on low, “You’re right, I just never liked him and tonight didn’t help his case.”

Wyatt gave her a smirk turning his head to look out the window, “That’s no surprise. He obviously wanted to hook up with you so we know what that means.”

Liz furrowed her brow, trying and failing to come up with an answer, “I have no idea actually Wyatt.”

“He wants what he can’t have,” he rolled his head back to face her with a lazy smile, “You won’t let him sleep with you or give him any kind of positive attention and it just makes him more upset and possibly desire you more because normally everyone loves him and agrees to what he wants. But you,” he reached a hand to poke her cheek, Liz grabbing his hand before he could make contact, placing it on the seat, “you don’t. You’re his unicorn, hence his behavior.” 

Liz shook her head, rolling her eyes, “Well he’s never gonna win.”

“Cause you like girls more,” Wyatt nodded, changing the song.

She gave a small laugh, “I like guys too, but it's his personality. I just can’t get past that.”

“And you shouldn’t,” he sat up straighter in the seat, “Liz we’ve grown up together and I know you. So I know that someone like him ain’t gonna cut it.” Wyatt scoffed, running a hand through his hair, pushing it back, “Hell even if there was some clone of me that wasn’t a part of our family circle out there, they still wouldn’t deserve you.”

She chuckled, shaking her head lightly, “You might be a little tipsy I think Wyatt, cause if it was a clone of you that would mean that they are a part of the family circle technically, because they have your DNA.”

“All ‘bout the details with you,” he smiled laughing, “Just like Uncle Raf. Raf,” he repeated, tilting his head, “Weird name to say don’t you think? Raf,” he said slowly shaking his head.

“Yeah it’s a good thing you’re staying with me tonight,” Liz mused, parking the car down the street like he had done earlier. “Alright buddy, here’s how this is gonna go,” she turned to face him, keeping his eyes focused on her, “I’m gonna climb over the fence, let you in. Then, I’ll climb to the window first so I can get you the ladder to come up.”

“Can’t I just climb like you?”

Liz shook her head, “You’re not as quiet like this Wyatt. Speaking of which,” Liz took her shoes off carrying them, Wyatt giving her a curious look, “So we can make less noise.” She and Wyatt made their way to her house trying to stop him from humming too loudly the entire walk there. The fence was easy to scale with Wyatt as Liz’s boost, along with making it to the window, her hand not meeting the inner sill like she should have. Liz looked along the window seeing that he was shut and impossible to open with how she was situated, even on her own it would be impossible. She looked to the ground below her, there was no way that it had come out….at least on it’s own. “Oh no,” she breathed out, that wasn’t a reassuring sign. “Wyatt,” she whispered, “put me down.”

He placed her down, eyes looking her over, “What’s wrong?”

“The window’s locked, could have been Danny, though. He can be a little jerk sometimes,” she pulled him to the back door, “Let’s sneak in the back, but keep quiet okay.” He nodded, following silently as they made their way to the back, Liz testing the door finding it locked. She looked to Wyatt frowning, “I think we’re in trouble Wyatt.”

“Gotta use the front door?” Liz nodded, “Fuck.” Wyatt rubbed the back of his neck, “My idea, I’ll take the heat. Hopefully it’s your mom,” he said shaking his shoulders out.

Liz looked at him confused, “Of course it’d be my mom. Why would you think otherwise?”

“Saw your dad’s car I think,” he pointed towards the front of the house, “Hope it's not him.”

Liz groaned quietly, it was very possible he got that earlier flight in the end, “I hope so too. But if it is him, let me take it okay. I’m used to it.” She put her arm around Wyatt as the two made their way to the front of the house, each preparing for the inevitable punishments. Standing in front of the door they look to each other grabbing the other’s hand, “Remember let me take the heat for this one okay. I convinced you like I do all the time-.”

“Not true I’ve convinced you before,” he interjected.

“How many times were those actually blamed on you though?” 

“Touche,” Wyatt nodded. 

“So I take the blame and hopefully I can convince dad to just let you stay here tonight. Then Aunt Wren and Uncle Wes can’t punish you as much or even find out if we’re super lucky.”

He gave her a smirk, “When have we ever been that lucky, Liz?” Wyatt gave her hand a squeeze, “Let’s do this.” Wyatt opened the door stepping in first, the living room light turning on, their eyes locking with Raf’s narrowed brown eyes, his jaw set, arms crossed, and not alone. Wyatt’s eyes went wide, “Dad,” he squeaked out, “What are you doing here?”

“What do you think Wyatt?” Raf said calmly, “You two are in a lot of trouble,” he pointed to Liz, “You especially young lady. What were you thinking sneaking out?” Liz looked down to the ground briefly gathering herself, while Raf took in her outfit, “And dressed like that. Do you know how worried I was, how worried Wes was with your little stunt. On top of that-.”

“Wasn’t her idea,” Wyatt said standing straighter, the three looking his way, Liz hissing his name under her breath, “It was mine. The whole thing. Liz just didn’t want me to go to the party alone, wanted to keep an eye on me. So you can’t blame her.”

“You drunk, kid?” Wes asked, looking to see if Liz was in the same state.

Wyatt gave a slow shrug, “You both drank? And then decided to drive,” Raf took a deep breath in, “What were you two thinking!” 

“Liz didn’t drink, she stayed sober once she saw me drinking more,” Liz covered her face, Wyatt that’s not how you lie, “She drove not me.”

Raf pinched the bridge of his nose, Wes shaking his head, “Liz, is this true?”

She nodded, “Yeah, one and a half beers at the very beginning of the night with two glasses of water between them. I’ve taken your guys’ advice when it comes to drinking, seriously.”

Wes nodded, “Least you were smart about it.”

“Was it really your idea,” Raf interrupted, eyes staring down at her, “and don’t try to take the full heat for this, Wyatt has to learn his lesson too.”

Liz looked at Wyatt, eyes sad, it was better to lie and make herself the villain, save Wyatt from her dad, but it would make it worse for herself if she just didn’t tell the truth either. “I’m sorry,” she whispered, Wyatt giving a slow nod in understanding, turning to meet her father’s eyes, “It was Wyatt’s idea. I helped with some planning-.”

Raf cut her off, pointing up the stairs, “Room. Now.”

“Dad but you should know that-,” she tried to argue, a sliver of hope that maybe she could lessen the extent of Wyatt’s punishment.

“Room,” his voice was calm and left no arguing, “We’ll talk later.” Liz grabbed Wyatt’s hand giving him a sympathetic squeeze, her eyes meeting his green eyes, “Now Liz.”

Wes’ eyes looked down to their hands noticing how slow they were to let go, “Yes sir,” Liz said, hanging her head making her way up the stairs, sitting in front of her door wanting to hear how much trouble she got him in.

“In your room, no sitting in front of it,” Liz rolled her eyes at her father’s voice, she knew there was no faking him out either. She sat in her room behind the door hoping to hear some of what was being said. It really wasn’t fair to Wyatt to be taking on the lecture, that Liz could handle, he didn’t deserve it. She didn’t have to agree to go with him, but she did and therefore should have taken the lecture and extra punishment, worth it for him to stay on dad’s good side. Not to mention his mom when he got home was going to double down on it. Liz could hear their voices muffled but distinct, Wes interjecting when needed, but Raf did most of the lecturing, her name being tossed in a few times. 

It was an hour before Raf finally stopped his lecture letting Wes and Wyatt go home. Liz let out a slow breath getting up to sit on her bed, listening to her dad’s footsteps making their way to her room. He knocked on the door, waiting for her, “You can come in,” she said softly looking at the carpet, kicking her foot out below her.

Raf entered, shutting the door behind him, pulling the chair from her desk sitting across from her, arms resting on his knees. The two sat in silence for a minute, the tension causing goosebumps to raise on her arms, “Liz,” Raf started, her shoulders hunching over, “what are we going to do with you? It seems like every other week there’s something with you and your mom and I,” he ran a hand through his hair, “well we’re running out of ways to put a stop to this behavior.”

“I’m sorry. I won’t do it again, I promise,” Liz’s heart falling, holding back the lump in her throat.

“Sorry isn’t going to cut it this time, Liz,” he snapped trying to keep his voice soft, “We just need you to understand that what you’re doing has consequences and one day no one is going to be there to bail you out. We can’t keep saving you. You’ll be an adult in the eyes of the law soon and with your history they won’t go easy on you.” Liz curled into herself more hiding her face as best she could, “I don’t want to see you make mistakes that will affect you for the rest of your life. I know you want to be headstrong, do the right thing, speak up for the underdog, and just be a teenager all at the same time but you have to start thinking about the long term effects.” 

“I’m trying though,” Liz whispered, “I promise you I am.”

“Not hard enough,” she flinched at his words, Raf let out a sigh, “Look I know you want to act like an adult, think you’re one already, but you aren’t Liz,” he placed a hand on her knee, “You just aren’t and that’s why we set these rules and boundaries for you. We aren’t placing them there just because we like to, far from it, it’s because we care about you. You just keep pushing and pushing those boundaries to the limit and,” he took a breath looking away for a moment, “well the next limit for us to take is treating you like a real adult.”

“What,” her voice cracked, “What do you mean?” By his tone of voice she could tell he didn’t mean it in the way every teenager dreamed of. 

“You heard me,” he sat up straight in the chair, his eyes never leaving hers, “Your mom and I will treat you like a real adult. You’ll have to find some way to pay rent, get your own food, and finish school. You’ll be on your own.” 

Eyes going wide Liz pleaded, “That’s-that’s not fair,” her father gave a shrug of his shoulders, “You can’t do that! I’m your daughter, you have to take care of me.”

“You want to be an adult so badly, We’ll treat you like one.”

“You’re bluffing,” she countered, “You’d never just cut me off like that. Mom wouldn’t let you.”

“You really want to put that to the test?” He leaned forward, “Cause that’s our last option with you. There isn’t anything else for us to do other than for us to stop bailing you out when you get in trouble.” 

Liz scoffed, “So that’s my punishment for just sneaking out?” There’s no way mom would allow for that, not after how her mom handled punishments, “Doesn’t seem like it fits the crime honestly, too harsh. Just ask anyone.”

“You’re right, so for tonight’s stunt, your grounding is extended by another two weeks and I’m revoking online privileges, I’m putting up more blocks on all devices. You have to get approval for sites if you need them for school purposes only,” Liz opened her mouth to protest Raf holding a hand up, “Look there is nothing else I can really take from you at this point that wouldn’t have effects into other parts of your life that I want you to focus on.” Raf took a deep breath, “I’m also locking that window and you have a set time frame that you must be home by. No going out anywhere, not even to family unless your mom or I are with you.” Liz let herself relax hearing the new terms of her grounding, I should have brought a notebook out with everything he’s just thrown at me. “You break any and I mean any of these rules or you get in trouble for something else I will not allow for anyone to bail you out. You will be on your own.” He leaned closer to Liz, jaw set and voice low, “Do I make myself clear?” 

Liz’s heart pounded in her chest, feeling the anger starting to burn in her blood. She wanted to tell him no, what he was proposing was unfair and unjust, that a child should not be left to fend for themselves….and yet she knew he had a point. Raf was being strict and sounding unkind in how he presented her options, but there was genuine worry there. She knew that he loved her, he always had, even when he was away he always managed to find some way to show how he was there for her. Why would this time be any different? It was unfair punishment in her eyes still but it must have all come to a head for it to have gotten under his skin this much after the countless times she had been caught for other things. Liz let out a slow breath swallowing her pride, “Crystal sir.”

He nodded leaning back in the chair, running his hands down his face, looking back at her, his face softer. “Come here,” Raf stretched his arms out to her, Liz looking at him suspiciously, “Just want to give you a hug. I missed you.” Liz didn’t move from where she sat, Raf getting up to sit next to her putting an arm around her, “You know I love you right? I always will, mija,” he said softly, “I just worry about you so much, I don’t want to see you hurt. I also- I just want you to have the world open to you. You deserve to take it on and have them all listen whether they like it or not.” He kissed the side of her head, “I just wish you’d be smarter about it like I know you are.”

“Just don’t want me to end up having to make my early adulthood harder than it needs to be like others in our family had,” Liz said looking back to the ground.

“Exactly,” he pulled her closer, “I want you to have it better than we did.”

“I apparently take after Uncle Wes so that may be inevitable,” she moved closer leaning her head against Raf’s shoulder.

Raf gave a small smile shaking his head, “I know we like to make that joke but while it is partially true, you actually take after you mom,” Liz looked up furrowing her brow, “It’s true, you just don’t get to see it. You get your big heart from her, being headstrong, compassionate, and impulsiveness from her.”

“Mom has never been impulsive like I am though,” Liz shook her head, “When she was younger, like way younger, right?”

“Like I said you don’t see it. Now don’t tell her I told you this but her control goes out the window when she has too much to drink,” Liz’s eyes went wide a smile threatened her lips, “She doesn’t get that way too much now but there was a Halloween she broke a man’s nose and beat him for making fun of her height or the time she wanted to spray paint a rainbow on someone’s house for their homophobic comments about her and Wren’s sexuality.” Liz laughed in disbelief, “So see a lot like her. Just have to work on getting her control and you’ll make your mark in the history books.”

“I’ll try, dad,” Liz wrapped her arms around him tightly, “I love you.”

“I love you too,” Raf kissed the top of her head, hugging her, “Though please don’t try to test my limits.”

She nodded, “I know. You’ll follow through with it.” Raf patted her back standing, making his way to the door, “Hey dad,” he turned to face her, “How did you even find out?”

“Oh,” he gave her a smile, “Wes wanted to just tuck in his kids, something about having so much time with them while being young, or something cheesy like that. Nothing that our family would understand honestly.”

Liz gave a light laugh seeing his smile, “Oh yeah, totally. Who wants to be cheesy like that with their kids.”

 “Anyway, he saw Wyatt was gone. Called your mom wondering if he came over like he does on occasion when he’s upset. I just got home, saw her phone go off and answered it.” Raf shrugged, “Would have found out either way, was planning on looking in on you guys after I got my stuff settled.”

“Of all nights for Wessy to be cheesy,” Liz whispered to herself, letting out a sigh.

“Now we both need some sleep,” he pointed to the window, “I’ll take care of what we discussed later today. So don’t try to sneak out again this early,” Liz nodded, watching as he left her room closing the door. She sat waiting for the sound of her parent’s bedroom door to close, making a break for her laptop. She opened up the messages connected to her phone seeing if Wyatt had tried to get a hold of her, nothing showing. She quickly typed a message to him, leg bouncing as she waited for a response from him. Five minutes passed before he responded, sending her a video call.

Wyatt had a lopsided smile on his face already changed out of the clothes he was wearing, “Hey trouble maker,” he said laughing.

“Har har. You’re one to talk, Sherlock,” Liz rolled her eyes once, settling her face worry taking over her features, “You doing okay? I know my dad can be a lot and you had your dad getting in on it too,” she rambled, waving her hands getting her thoughts back in order, “Just wanted to see how you held up.”

His face turned serious, taking a deep breath, “You know I think I know how it feels to be short now. Like really understand now.”

Liz let out a snort, “That’s dads for ya, somehow manage to make you feel three feet tall. What was the final verdict on punishment for you?”

“No surprise, but grounded,” he gave a shrug, “Mom was a bit upset about the whole thing, so I got it from her too. I also have no games, so I now have the punishment laptop for school,” Liz gave an exaggerated wince, Wyatt laughing. “I know right? But uh a slightly stricter curfew and manual labor with dad for the duration or until he has nothing left for me to do. I’m sure you got off easier this time Liz since I was to blame. Just a very harsh lecture from Uncle Raf.” 

Liz looked at the desk, pursing her lips, “Wyatt I am….a repeat offender. I am not allowed out of the house without supervision, or well even in the house without someone else being here. Window is gonna be sealed too.”

“But nothing taken away though,” he pointed out, “Better than me.”

Liz’s jaw dropped before laughing, “Excuse me sir but there is nothing left for them to take from me that wouldn’t have consequences in other parts of my life.”

He thought for a moment, “Fair point. Oh you know what dad also told me on the drive home?” Liz shook her head, “He gave me a six out of ten for my sneaking out attempt. A rank, Liz. He ranked my sneaking out ability.”

“Hey, six out of ten isn’t bad,” Liz shrugged, smiling.

He leaned back in his chair with a huff, “You kidding me? That’s a failing grade right there. I gotta do better next time, gotta pass with flying colors like I do everything else.”

Liz shook her head, rolling her eyes, “There will not be a second time.”

“Sure there won’t be Lizzy,” Wyatt laughed, Liz feeling the automatic response to give him a shove, opting to shake her head groaning. When his laughter subsided, he met her eyes with his light green ones, catching the light of the rising sun, “I am glad to see you’ll be okay though Liz. Sorry I dragged you into this, got you in trouble.”

“Don’t worry about it,” she waved him off, “I had a lot of fun tonight, so worth it you know?” 

“Yeah,” he repeated, his eyes getting a far away look, “Worth it.”

“Anyway you should get some sleep and end this call before your mom finds you,” Liz said, “I’ll see you Monday at school,” he nodded. Liz gasped, “Oh also, don’t forget to bring a second meal tomorrow cause we have the test performance that night.”

“Aye aye, captain,” he saluted her, the two laughing, “And you don’t forget the Hot Tamales for me.”

“I know. You took the heat this time so fair is fair.” The two waved to each other, their screens going dark, Liz leaning back in her chair. “We’ll do it again,” she mocked, “In your dreams.”

[k-writer1998]

Rebel Hours (4/18)

Kwon Jieun always fit her parents’ image of the “perfect” daughter… at least to their knowledge. Away from prying eyes she was like any other girl living life to the fullest doing what she wants. When a little someone named Bang Chan comes into her life priorities are changed, mistakes are made, and her life finally becomes her own.

Fluff

w.c: 2k

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

      This past month, although busy as ever being a criminal justice major, has been like walking on cloud nine and it’s all thanks to a certain rapper. We’ve met up a few times for little study “dates” either at a coffee shop or wherever Chan decides to drag me to and text daily. By passing my feelings, because god knows what they are right now, I truly enjoy the time spent with Chan. He is the first person outside of my friend circle that has made me feel safe with being myself. I even told him my name… kind of. I got tired of feeling the heat rush to my cheeks every time he called me “princess” in crowded places so I told him to call me “Eun.” I didn’t want any association with my family when it came to him, plus this is supposed to be a casual thing so a little white lie won’t hurt anyone. It is a nickname… just one no one uses on me except him. 

      The only hard part was changing from "Congressman Kwon’s daughter Jieun" and her prep school looking clothes to “Eun’s” cute edgy outfits. I know it would’ve been easier to just live my life looking and acting like a proper lady like my parents wanted but that wasn’t me. Although the quick changes were because of Chan, I liked being able to breathe and be who I wanted to be. I was currently in a stall in one of the campus bathrooms adjusting my tied black crop top I just changed into before topping it off with a red plaid button up. Thank god my mom didn’t find skinny jeans “inappropriate” or this would have been a bit harder but the price you pay for freedom right? I finally took off the wig and tucked it neatly into my bag before leaving the stall. It was exhilarating to go out on campus knowing people wouldn’t recognize me, only a sliver of a chance that I could get caught. I spotted Chan sitting under a tree in the park with a smile. He was sitting on his jacket with his back to the tree, his laptop resting on his lap. I plopped next to him, placing my plaid down so I could sit on it, and took a glance at his screen.

“What are you working on?”

      He gave me a secretive smile as he turned his laptop away from me, slightly closing the screen so I couldn’t see it.

“A new track for 3racha.”

“Do I get a peek?”

“Not for free no. What would you do to get a special preview?”

"Hmmm, depends on the price. How about paying for lunch today?"

"But is lunch really worth a personal first listen to an unreleased song?" He teased.

"I mean food is life and it should, but fine. What will it cost?"

"Well they do say an eye for an eye so how about a secret for a secret?"

"I don't think this is the right context to use that saying but I'll bite," I laughed.

      I thought for a moment at what secret I could possibly tell him as I looked into his eyes. I don’t know if it’s the sincerity in his eyes or the tenderness behind his smiles but I’ve been quite honest with him about myself… give or take a few major details.

“Okay I can’t think of something on the spot like this. What kind of secret do you want to know?”

“Let’s see, what is the baddest thing you’ve done? You seem like someone who bends the rules to get your way.”

“I do make a few loop holes but the baddest thing I’ve done? Probably getting my tattoo behind my parents’ backs. Wait, no! The worst was helping you steal that plushie.”

      I laughed while taking out my notes as he gasped in mock surprise. He threw his hand over his heart and leaned into the tree, earning him a playful glare from me at his theatrics.

“Who knew you were a goody-two-shoes.”

“ I hate to break it to you but you’re the bad apple of us two, I think there will be trouble ahead for me if I keep hanging around bad company,” I teased.

“Or you’re a natural who just hasn’t woken to their true calling and don’t tell me you don’t like my company, no matter how bad I may be.”

      He gave me that playful smirk that I couldn’t help but return as we eyed each other for a moment. I made the first move, placing my back onto the trunk of the tree next to him and nudging him as I eyed the laptop expectantly. A soft chuckle fell from his lips before I felt the soft cushion of headphones on my ears. After a few moments my ears were greeted with a powerful track with a slight rock vibe. My lips naturally curled up in a pleased smile as I listened. Once it ended I gingerly took off the headphones and handed it back to him as my initial thought escaped my mouth.

“Well you went hard didn’t you?”

“I mean I can go hard on other things too if you want to find out,” he raised his eyebrows teasingly.

“CHAN! You’re so annoying, shut up,” I laugh.

“Hey you’re the one that said it.”

“And you know what I meant.”

      I playfully shoved his arm and we both laughed. We talked a bit more about the track before we fell into a comfortable silence working on our respective projects. We continued like this for an hour with the occasional conversation or joking in between before we grabbed a quick lunch and I had to head back to campus for my next class. Chan dropped me off at the front gate with a quick peck on the forehead before he had to leave to make it to his own class on time. On my way to change back I felt my phone ringing in my back pocket. Pulling it out my chipper mood soured because whenever she calls it's never good.

"Hi mom, I have to go to class soon but what's the matter?"

"You need to come home for two weeks. We are in the last stretch of the campaign and we need the whole family together."

"Two weeks? Mom that's too much, I'm already busy with all my assignments can't I just meet you at the events?"

"No! We have to arrive as a family and there will be a lot of events back to back so it's unlikely you'll make it back for class on time most days."

"Okay, I'll go to the main office after class and deal with the paperwork," I sigh.

"Okay?"

"... Yes mom…"

      Once the call ended a sigh escaped my lips as I pinched the bridge of my nose. It was as if God was reminding me of the risks if I continue down this path because no matter how much I tried to ignore my feelings, they were there and very clear. I like Chan. I moved off to the side of the walkway and just stood still with my eye closed. There was something calming about allowing the world to move around you as you stay still… A deep breath then I opened my eyes and was about to continue on my way when something caught my eye. A bright splash of color amongst the monotonous posters on the notice board I happen to be standing in front of. It was a flyer for a dance competition that spanned across quite a few campuses. There was a campus aside from my own that my eyes had recognized and the pit I got from the phone call sank deeper into the depths of my stomach.

      I forced myself away to change back and go to class but my mind wasn’t quite there anymore. It wasn’t until one of my classmates had nudged me that I realized class was over. Immediately I headed to the admission office to file for my two weeks leave. On the way to the office I felt a familiar buzz and pulled out my phone. Chan had just gotten out of class and had sent a cute text checking on me. I would’ve been all smiles and butterflies right now but the whirlwind of my thoughts had overpowered any giddy emotion that tried to surface. I swiped it off my screen and shoved it back into my pocket. Back at the apartment I started to pack and along the way Seungmin drifted in to check in with me. He laid in my bed on his phone while I was moving around my room and he casually talked with me.

“Can you survive staying with your parents?” 

“Not really but I just gotta fake it till I make it.”

“How are you going to explain to lover-boy? Seunghee said you didn’t tell him who you were.”

      For a second I froze in front of my closet, the unread text still floating in the back of my mind. I shook it from my thoughts as I continued to grab things and pile them into my suitcase. I was just glad that it was Seungmin with me right now and not his sister, she would have caught on to my behavior. 

“I’ll just tell him some relative got sick and it’s severe so my whole family is checking on them.”

“Do you plan on ever being honest with him?”

“I don’t know, maybe? I’m not really sure how I feel about him,” I lied.

      I let out an unsure laugh and he narrowed his eyes at me before shaking his head. All the boys probably know how much I like Chan by now but I couldn’t let any of them know of what I plan to do. It’s dumb I know but I feel like I have no other choice. I made a promise within myself that I will not let what happened to Minhyuk happen again and if that means breaking both our hearts then so be it. A broken heart is a small price to pay… right?

      One agonizing week passed and I hated it. In the beginning I had told Chan the lie as planned and he was very understanding but “understanding” can only last so long when I’m so obviously avoiding him. Partly I was trying to put distance between us two but also I couldn’t really answer even if I wanted to when there were various events to attend and lots of people I had to pretend to care about. In moments of weakness, where I was run ragged both physically and mental with the show I had to put on, I did text back but even I could tell he was catching a hint. My thoughts were interrupted by my mom calling me down to greet a guest. When I saw who it was I didn’t know if it was heaven or hell sent when I greeted Seunghee. I’ve been trying to avoid her when I heard she was back, using my parents as an excuse but spending so much time with just my parents was driving me insane. Judging from the glare she was giving me behind my mother’s back, I knew I was in for it. Sadly being best friends for so long she could tell when I’m lying so I could only tell the truth. I mentally prepared myself to be ripped to shreds as we went up to my room. 

“How come your home Seunghee? You didn’t tell me you’d be back. We haven’t caught up in awhile, how are you?”

“You would’ve known if you ever answered my calls or messages. My parents need me to attend that one gala for charity or whatever but that’s not the point. Are you going to do this the easy way or the hard way?”

“Hard way?” She gave me a pointed glare and I sighed, “you’re gonna be mad...”

“God Jieun, what did you do? It has to do with Chan doesn’t it? I swear you better not have done what I think you did.”

      I can see the exasperation in her eyes as I nervously fiddle with my pillow as I hug it to my chest. From her perch on my desk and how she crossed her arms she already guessed what I did but she still wanted to hear it from my own mouth.

“I mean… not completely?”

“Explain,” she ordered.

[mylittleotomecorner]

Rainy Day Care Lucien x MC Rating: aww

I finally leave the office. We’ve been pulling late nights to get the proposals done for the next project and finished with little time to spare. Kiki and Willow wanted to get drinks, Minor insisting he check my drinks like last time, but I had to turn them down. I wanted to go home, relax and refresh myself before the next proposal meeting. Walking home, I planned to stop at the store and get a few things to fix for a quick dinner. The air was crisp and the night was calm… until something hit my forehead. 

“Huh?” I look up and a few raindrops hit me as drizzle slowly began to fall. I walked briskly to the store and make it inside just before the downpour came. Sighing as I looked outside, I muttered, “There wasn’t any forecast for rain…” With nothing else to do, I grab a shopping basket and wander the store for the things I wanted for dinner.

Once I have all I need, I looked around to see if there were any umbrellas for sale. When asked, the clerk said they ran out and I was left to wonder how long I would have to wait. Paying for my items, I decided to wait outside and see if the rain will lighten up enough to walk home. 

The awning was large enough and a few others waited as well. The clerk said we could wait inside if we got cold. Time passed, the other people waiting eventually left to take their chances or found friends that so happened to pass by. I heave a heavy sigh. “At this rate, I’ll never get home…”

“[___], are you waiting for someone?” Turning to the voice that spoke to me, there was Lucien holding an umbrella and a look of gentle concern. 

I must look like a wet rat to him. Looking me over, it felt like he must. “I didn’t know it was going to rain so I didn’t bring an umbrella. I was just on my way home.”

“And you went grocery shopping hoping it will stop?” I nodded, feeling pretty pathetic. I’m sure I look it. But all I got from Lucien was a smile and an offered hand. “Let me to take you home and carry your things.”

“Thank you, Lucien. I’ll be okay carrying them while we walk.” I smile as I join him under the umbrella. 

Still with that smile, he wrapped a warm arm around my shoulders. “I suppose this will have to do. I didn’t realize it might be a tight fit under here since I don’t walk with anyone in the rain. Maybe that might change. I hope you don’t mind.” I can feel the flush rise on my cheeks and I shook my head no, too afraid my heart might jump out of my throat. I didn’t have to look up to know his smile was there shining down on me as he held me close to him the whole way home. I was grateful for the warmth as I didn’t realize how cold I was. I hope he didn’t notice the shivering as I shifted the bags in my hands. 

“I must be lucky that you’re living right next door,” I say as we reach our floor.

“Yes, though, I won’t always be there to take you home.” Lucien sounded worried as he took his keys out. “Why don’t you join me for some tea. Maybe we can even share dinner? I just want to make sure you didn’t catch cold after getting caught in the rain.”

“Oh, it’s okay, really,” I say in objection. “I feel fi-choo!” I sniffles and rub my nose. 

A hand goes to my forehead and more concern grows on Lucien’s face. “You’re burning up a little. Come in. No arguments.”

Darn, I just had to make myself a burden. Obeying, I enter his apartment as I hold my bags in both hands. It’s still the same as I last saw it, hardly lived in since he’s always away at the lab working on some research project. Lucien closed the door and took my bags. “I think we can save these for another time. I’ll order us something.”

“Really, I-“ A slender finger was placed on my lips and my wide eyes went to the owner. His smile was one of comfort and gentleness. 

“No arguments, remember?” That look made me feel so safe somehow and I merely nodded. He then went and placed my groceries in his fridge and took his mobile to order takeout. He looked up and frowned. “You need a hot bath and a change of clothes.”

I forgot my clothes had gotten damp from the rain and look at them. “They seem okay. I could just-“

“I’ll draw you a bath and give you some spare clothes. It’s no trouble.” There he goes, to draw a bath and get me clothes. Wait… spare clothes… his clothes?! What about my damp ones?! I’m mortified and embarrassed and other things mixed into one moment. How could this have happened to me…

*****

Freshly bathed, I feel really embarrassed to have to wear a man’s large shirt as a gown. The sweatpants he gave me were so long, I had to roll the cuffs up. It made me feel like a little kid. Lucien is somewhere on his phone. I can hear him talking to someone so I’m left to take a seat on the couch. Somehow, the need to hug a pillow was there. I grab a throw pillow and held it in my arms. 

“That is one lucky pillow.” Lucien had come over with a blanket in his arms. “If only to know how that pillow feels…” How can he say that with that smile of his? My cheeks flamed up and I try to hide behind the pillow.  I even tried tucking my legs under, feeling greatly exposed. “Here, this will be much warmer than that pillow. It’s just a simple throw, but I can get you something heavier if you’re feeling cold.” He held it open and it was big enough for two people. 

“What about you? Will you be alright? Were you in the rain long?” I couldn’t help but worry that if I was caught in the rain that he was as well. I took the blanket, trying not to shiver despite the warm bath I took. But, our hands grazed each other so he must have felt how cold my fingers were. His were exceptionally icy so that made me even more worried.

“Oh, don’t worry about me. Let’s just get you settled in. Food should be here soon.” No sooner was the throw on my lap did the doorbell rang. “That should be it now.” He went to answer the door and returned with a large bag of takeout. He moved the coffee table closer and set the bag down. Out came containers of soup and dumplings. “I figured you would want something simple and maybe got a little hungry?”

My stomach replied with a loud growl just as I opened my mouth. I snapped my mouth shut and wished I could be swallowed up by the cough. All Lucien did was chuckle lightly and take out more dumplings. How does this man know how to take care of me? “I’ll have to repay you for all this food.”

“Nonsense,” he said once everything was set. “I’m just happy to have a meal with you.” 

I smile, now not sure if I have a fever or feel embarrassed that this is seeming like a date. Shifting so I can have my soup, I blurt out, “This kinda feels like a date.”

Lucien was passing a container of dumplings my way, that smile ever present on his lips as he set the container before me. “A date? Hmmm, I’ll have to get you flowers next time I take you home for dinner then.” The hot soup was as good a cover as I was going to get as I avoided looking at the scientist neighbor and try to determine how to feel about all these comments. Again, he chuckles. “You look adorable,” he said before sipping his own container of soup. “Had I known you could make my clothes look so cute, I might hope you’d get caught in the rain more.” 

“Huh?” Did I hear him right? Not paying attention, I burn my lip on the hot broth. “Ah, hot…”

“Here, let me cool that off for you.” Lucien took the spoon from me and moved to sit closer, practically shoulder to shoulder with the professor. He scooped up the broth and blew on it, steam being blown away. “Here,” the spoon was brought close to my mouth and I froze, looking between spoon and wielded. “You need your strength. You won’t have this opportunity to be fed by a world renowned professor, after all.” Knowing he would say I couldn’t take care of myself, I caved in and allowed Lucien to feed me. All the while, he wore that worried smile. “So cute,” he muttered. I blamed the soup for my face feeling so hot. 

The rest of the night was spent watching movies on Lucien’s tablet until I fell asleep. I think I protested staying the night but all I remember was feeling lifted into the air before I lost consciousness. 

**********

Lucien had made sure the movie they watched was something [___] liked. He honestly didn’t know since he never had time to even think about dating. His life was spent with his work. But there was something about her that made him think outside his usual boundaries. Somehow, he felt the desire to keep her safe. 

When he saw her outside, taking shelter from the rain, he knew right away that she was so focused on her own work that she didn’t think to get an umbrella. As she began to doze, Lucien brushed hair from her brow as she leaned slightly against him. Soft fringes fell against warm skin as he felt her forehead. “Hmm, you’re burning up,” 

The only reaction he got was a slight shift and a sigh. The movie had been playing all this time, but no one was paying attention to it. The person it was meant for has fallen asleep and the person that provided it was more interested in watching the other sleep peacefully. 

Before the movie was over, Lucien carefully lifted [___] into his arms as if she were as light as a doll and carried her into the bedroom. There, she was placed on the bed and tucked in for the night. He left her there, door ajar, and returned to the living room where he closed the movie app and opened some research material. It would be a long night and he wanted to make sure he was awake in case she needed him again. 

[inyourwildestdreamslove]

Tripping Over You

Pairing: Sweet Pea x Reader

Summary: Sweet Pea proves he is the best guy for you, even though you already knew...

The final part of Playing Hard to Get: Check out the other parts here!

Read me Please: All of the poetry in this story is from the anthology the princess saves herself in this one by Amanda Lovelace, which you should clearly check out if you enjoy her work in this as much as I did! She is an amazing poet and does touch on some pretty rough topics sometimes. AKA you should be prepared to cry, but like a cleansing cry... Anyway... ENJOY!

Your stomach is twisted into unfamiliar knots as you walk the halls. Simultaneously, you crave and fear the moment you will see Sweet Pea walking down the hallway. If he even talks to you today…

‘Why am I such a spaz?!’ you reprimand yourself as you remember running off yesterday.

You groan as you hit your head against your graffiti covered locker. A bold red ‘Princess’ sticks out in metallic gold. You roll your eyes.

Today is going to suck.

You walk into your first class of the day and sitting on the desk you usually occupy is a coffee. Decorating the paper cup are the words:

when i see

your light pieces

with

my dark pieces,

i begin to

understand why

they say

opposites attract.

-chiaroscuro

The words are familiar but you can’t place them, almost as if you read them in a dream. You can feel them at the edge of your conscience but you can’t grasp them in your hands.

You take a sip and the soothing taste of your favorite drink coats your senses and brings peace to your mind. It’s like wrapping yourself in a blanket on a rainy day.

You smile softly as you reread the words and feel a soft contentment and frazzled excitement warring in you.

“You look happy,” the deep voice of Sweet Pea interrupts your thoughts and you turn to look at him. He’s got this look of inquisition upon his handsome features and for a moment you hope that he is one who left the coffee.

“Someone brought me my favorite coffee,” you say presenting him with the cup.

“Oh? Who?” he asks in interest.

“There’s no name… so I don’t know…”

“Hmmm… sounds like you have an admirer…” he says slyly.

You giggle to yourself, “Maybe…”

He smiles in return, that boyish smile that gives you butterflies and makes your heart pound.

“His smile makes my bones ache.

-a pain i welcome”

The words slip across your mind like honey, sticky sweet and a little messy.

“What’s written on it?” he asks.

“It sounds like a poem…”

“Do you know it?”

“Kind of… It sounds so familiar, but I’m having a hard time placing it.”

He nods in understanding before turning his attention to his phone as the teacher walks in. You spend class happily sipping on your drink and relishing in the fact that Sweet Pea is absentmindedly running his fingers through your hair.

Your day progresses like normal, Sweet Pea walks you from class to class talking with you about this and that.

“The Insidious movies are clearly better than the Paranormal Activity movies, even though the first one kept me up for three days…”

“Three days?” he questions looking down at you, “I thought Miss Horror wasn’t scared of anything…”

“A demon possessing you and dragging you into the attic IN YOUR SLEEP is a little terrifying… That is practically my worst nightmare…”

“Demons in your attic? Do you even have an attic?”

“That is beside the point!” you pout.

“Of course it is…” he chuckles as he leans casually on the locker next to you. You open your locker and something flutters to the floor. A postcard print of your favorite artist stares up at you from the floor. You pick it up and turn it over to see if a name or message is on the back.

in winter,

it’s the snowflakes.

in spring,

it’s the raindrops.

in summer,

it’s the flower petals.

in autumn,

it’s the leaves.

all these things

will eventually fall,

but not one of them

will fall as hard

as i do for you when i

wake up every morning.

-all the cliches were written with us in mind.

“What is it?” questions Sweet Pea from above you, he’s reading the poem over your shoulder.

“Another poem…” you mutter to yourself.

“Do you know this one?” he asks in curiosity.

“Maybe…” you mutter more to yourself than you do to him.

You smile down at the picture and tuck it happily in the book you’re reading. You aren’t sure which side you like better, the colorful or the black and white. You smile up at Sweet Pea feeling giddy with feelings of warm hugs and sweet words. He smiles back and you can almost see the promise in that smile.

‘Is it him?’ whispers across your mind as you grab is arm and pull him down the hallway towards the cafeteria.

“Well then Mr Big Bad Serpent… What are you afraid of?” you challenge in a playful voice, the grin on your lips infecting his.

He looks up in thought, “People living in the walls…”

You laugh in delight and launch into the topic of people being more terrifying than monsters.

When you arrive at your final class of the day a bouquet of deep purple, black, merlot and cherry red flowers greet you on your desk, all of your favorite colors wrapped in a bow. Your smile is so wide that you can feel the moon being drawn to you from the sky. You rush over to your desk and notice the smile on Toni’s lips as you take the card from the pick.

I.  a well-loved book.

II. a cool, overcast day.

III. a mug of coffee.

IV. a warm blanket

V. you.

-The only things i need to feel free.

You spend class telling the butterflies in your stomach to play nice, but they are just too excited to listen.

You spend the next day with Sweet Pea working on your papers as he grills you about the mysterious admirer that you have acquired.

“So you have no idea who it is? Not even one?” he asks for the 10th time that morning.

“No! I told you there wasn’t a note and I don’t know who would even begin to pay that kind of attention to me! I mean they know my coffee order!”

“Well if a guy really likes you… he’s going to know those kinds of things…”

“So you think he really like me then?” you ask with a dreamy smile.

“Yeah… I think after all of that he really does like you…” he says it like it’s the most obvious thing in the world.

“You never know with things like this… it could be a prank…”

He seems to become frustrated at your words and changes the subject.

“So… Instead of going to that party tonight… we could do something else?”

“Like what?”

“Well… Greendale Drive-in is doing a horror movie marathon… We could go to that instead?”

“Seriously?! I’ve always wanted to go to one of those, but all of my friends hate horror movies!”

“Yeah! I know you don’t care for parties… plus there is that bakery you mentioned a couple of weeks ago… we could get something there after?”

“That sounds perfect Sweet Pea! When do we leave?” you ask in excitement.

He smiles down at you, “Around 5? We could grab dinner before the movie?”

“Sure! Do you want to hang out until then?”

“Actually, I have a couple of things I need to do at home…” he says getting up from your table.

“Oh.. okay…”

You are a little disappointed when he leaves, but you honestly can’t wait for tonight. You know he has to be the person leaving you all of those presents and poems. At least you hope he is since you have something planned for tonight.

You take your time getting ready… Okay so you antagonize over what outfit to wear for far too long then you fix your hair just the way you like it and do your makeup.

You glance over at the novel sitting on your dresser. It is a hardcopy of Dracula, you vividly remember the moment you fell for him as you discussed the book in question. You take the book and tuck it into your bag.

You pull your phone out and text Sweet Pea, “What are we taking tonight? Your bike?”

“Yeah... are you okay with that?” he writes back.

You smile to yourself, a date.. Can you call it a date… with Sweet Pea wouldn’t be complete without his bike. You simply text him that his bike will be fine.

The sound of his motorcycle roars into your driveway and you rush outside to meet him. He smile when he sees you and you happily return it.

“You ready for tonight, beautiful?” he asks handing you a helmet.

You nod shyly before you slip the helmet on and climb on behind him.

“Where are we sitting if we are taking your bike?” you ask in confusion.

“I have a blanket in the storage compartment for us to use… is that okay?”

“Yeah, that’s fine!”

The ride to Greendale is smooth and beautiful, the colors of the sunset paint the sky and you can feel your nerves build. The two of you end up grabbing food to take into the Drive-in and you have a picnic as you wait for the movies to start.

“So any more thoughts on that mystery guy?”

“I have an inkling…”

“Do you now?” he asks glancing from the movie over to you, giving you his full attention.

“Yeah…”

“And who do you think it is?” he asks with a slight smirk.

You smile as you look up into his eyes, “You know I just remembered I have something for you…”

He furrows his brow, “Come on! You can’t change the subject now!” he exclaims leaning into you a little more. His eyes are a honey brown and you feel yourself falling for him even more.

“I’m not!” you laugh, “I just want to give you this before I forget! It’s that book for your project!”

He just sighs in disappointment, “That’s what you want to give me?”

“Yeah! It’s right here!”

You pull the book out and hand it to him, “Wow… thanks this is going to be really helpful…” he says flatly.

“Open it Sweet Pea,” you whisper to him.

He glances up into your eyes then does as you say.

Written inside the front cover are the words:

my boy?

he is even

better than

books.

-fiction has nothing on you.

His eyes are wide as he looks up at you.

“Is that-?”

“From the same book? Yeah it is…” you say with a soft smile.

He smiles before he leans in and captures your lips with his in a soft sweet kiss. Your hand rests on his chest to steady yourself as his fingers tangle in your hair. You can hardly believe the feelings that course through you, relief, excitement, happiness and contentment battle in your heart. When you finally pull back you both smile happily at each other.

“When did you figure it out?” he asks looking down fondly at the book in his hands before he meets your eyes again.

“Toni looked way too pleased with herself yesterday. This is after she got really cozy with my friend in our art class…”

“Toni helped to place some of the gifts so you wouldn’t suspect anything, but I did plan out all of it. Well I did need help with your coffee order…”

“How did you know about the book?!”

He laughs, “You carried that book around for weeks last month! I thought it fit you too… the princess saves herself in this one, how could I not use that as my proof that I’m way better than that other guy?”

“What other guy?” you ask in confusion.

“The… one in your math class… everyone said you have a crush of him…”

You laugh, “I don’t have a crush on a guy in my math class! And I never did!”

“What!? Seriously? You mean I got worked up over a guy who doesn’t even exist?”

“You got worked up because you thought I had a crush on someone else?” you ask sweetly leaning into him.

“Well… yeah… I wanted to prove I’m the best guy for you…” he says as he looks down into your eyes.

“Well… I think that you succeeded…” you whisper.

He smiles the happiest smile you’ve ever seen before he leans in again and kisses you softly as he pulls you towards his warmth. Pulling away from the kiss you rest your head on his shoulder and you relax contently against him. The butterflies, who have been restless all day, finally settle and allow you the peace to truly enjoy these feelings of unbridled happiness and content.

he

opened me up

like a book

& poured the

poetry

back into

me.

-my personal pen & paper.

Tags: @kammmmmmxp @love-your-little-thingss @nepriaa @live-love-bailar

[ak47stylegirl]

Okay, here's the fic that I been working on. It was prompted by @casualneonglitterpainterposts comment. “Maybe it could be when they were kids they went on some great adventure with both or either of there parents.” so thanks you for the prompt :) and Thank you to all the people that helped me with the camping thing for this fic, you were a big help. 

writing this fic really made me love baby Scott, he just sooo cute(i can see where Alan gets it from) plus writing mama Tracy and jeff’s scenes were fun. I hope you enjoy this :)

camping trip

“Daddy! Daddy! Come on” Scott Said jumping up and down.

“I’m coming son” he called over to his oldest who was waiting near the car. “You sure you’ll be okay while we are gone?” He asked his wife.

“I’m pregnant Jeff, not helpless” Lucille Tracy Said, putting her hands on her hip. “Anyway, you promised the boys you take them camping.”

“I know, you’re sure you-“

“Jeff stops being a smother hen and gets in that car before Scott thinks of dragging you there,” Lucille Said grinning.

“Okay, okay I can take a hint,” he said, laughing. “Love you,” he said, kissing his wife on the lips.

Lucille laughed “love you too, now go!”

“So you boys excited?” He asked.

“Yes!” Scott shouted.

Wow, that boy is loud...

“John?” He asked his three-year-old son, who was looking out the car window.

“Will we see stars?” John asked, looking up at him.

He chuckled, that boy and his stars, I don't blame him stars are awesome.

“Yes, we be able to see heaps of stars where we are going,” he said grinning. he made sure of that.

"where are we going exactly, daddy?" Scott asked.

"that a surprise Scott you just have to wait and see." 

"Daddy, I'm hungry," John said.

"I am too" Scott added.

he looked at the car's clock; it was 12 pm, lunchtime.

"Okay, boys. I need to get some petrol soon so we can get something to eat then, okay?"

he got two nodded in return.

After lunch, they were back on the road. John had fallen asleep; it was a long drive for a three-year-old.

"daddy?"

"hmmm, yes Scott?" he asked, looking at Scott though his Rear-view mirror.

"how much further until we get there?" Scott asked, looking at him.

"not long now."

"there's a lake! there a lake!" Scott said, pointing at it as they drove past." look, Johnny, there's a lake!" 

"are fish in there?" John asked Scott." like in bedtime book?"

"maybe! is there fish in there, daddy?" Scott asked.

"yes, I would think there would be fish in there," he answered. 

he turned the car into Entrance of the campsite.

"Daddy, why you are putting our food in that box?"

"well, we don't want bears getting it, now do we john?" he said, closing the bear box and locking it. or have bears come near his sons.

"oh.... why would bears want it?"

three-year-olds and their love of whys, he thought chuckling. 

"because we have yummy food, Johnny!" Scott said wrapping his small arms around John. "any bear would want that! isn't that right daddy?"

he chuckled at john's startled expression at Scott's sudden entrance. 

"yes, that right son," he said smiling at his boys. 

"Daddy, can I help with the tent?" Scott asked, following behind him.

"maybe another time Scotty," he said ruffling Scott's hair. "but if you want to help, I got a very important job for you."

"what is it?!" Scott asked, grinning.

"Well, I won 't to be able to keep an eye on your brother while making the tent, so I'll need you to keep an eye on him, can you do this important job for me?" 

he was, of course, going to keep one eye on them as he makes the tent, but It gives Scott something to do.  

"Okay, daddy! he won't leave my sight!" Scott said, with the most serious voice a five-year-old could make. 

"I'm sure he won't Scott," he said, chuckling.

Why was it that even by 2041, there still wasn't an easy tent to put up? He thought as he finally got the tent up. Seriously there has to be a better way of doing this, hmmm that be a fun project to figure out.

He looked over at his sons, who were...drawing, he realised as he came closer.

Scott must have found the crayons and paper that lucy had packed.

"what are you munchkins doing?" he asked.

"stars!" John said holding his paper up. It was more a mess of blue, purple and yellow lines but if you ignore that it sort of looks like stars. 

"Daddy, look at mine!" Scott said, it was a big blue plane, or he thinks it a plane.." it a plane!"

"they both look great, boys," he said ruffling their hair. "are you going to show your mother them when we get home? I'm sure she love them."

"Yeah!" Scott nodded rapidly. 

"now, who wants to help me collect some firewood?" 

he got two excited 'yes' in return.

"now, you stack the sticks like this, boys," he said as he shows them how to make a campfire.

"are we lighting it now?" Scott asked.

John yawned, rubbing his eye with his fist.

Hmm, I think its times for John to go down for another nap.

"not right now Scott, we'll wait until a little bit later," he said, it was only 3  in the afternoon after all. 

"oh...*yawn*why?" Scott asked.

Hmm, make that Scott as well.

"because it is not late enough Scott, it burns out before long if we put it on now," he said picking john up, who was very fastly falling asleep.  "come on, its time for your nap," he said, entering the tent.

"what?! I don't need*yawn* a nap," Scott said, following him.

Well, your yawning says otherwise son, he thought as he set John down on one of the sleeping bags.

"come on, Scotty lay down" he patted a spot next to john.

"I'm not sleepy," Scott said crossing his arms, pouting.

He sighed, "Scott, come here." he said more sternly. "now."

Scott crawled over, pouting still. "I want to help*yawn* you, not nap." 

"you can help me around camp after you have your nap, now close your eyes," he said, stroking Scott's soft brown hair.

"you *yawn*promise?" Scott said, as sleep slowly took him.

"I promise, now shh, go to sleep Scotty." 

She smiles looking at the photo that Jeff had sent her.

Both of her little boys curled up asleep, hugging each other.

jeff sent a text with it saying 'ain't they just adorable?'

the baby kicked. "yes, those are your big brothers," she said rubbing her pregnant belly. "cute little things ain't they?"

'baby thinks so too' she texted back to Jeff. 'she/he kicked.'

'how is the baby? is everything okay at home??'

"your father is a real worrier, now isn't he?" she said to her unborn child, grinning.

'i'm fine Jeff, don't worry about me, just have a fun time with John and Scott, and that's an order from your wife :)'

'haha, OK boss ;)'

'and remember not to let them sleep too long now, or you'll never get them to sleep tonight.'  she adds as an afterthought.

The boys had woken up from their nap a little while ago.

“Daddy, can we light the fire now?” Scott asked. He looked down at his watch, 4:30 pm. Yeah that probably a good idea, it will get dark soon.

“Okay, Scott but I’ll need you to stand back with your brother over there while I do this, Okay?” He said firmly. 

“Okay,daddy"

“It’s warm,” John said standing near the fire, Scott standing near him.

"boys don't stand that close to the fire," he warned, his arms filled with firewood.

”why it’s warm, Daddy?” john asked reaching out to touch the fire.

his eyes widen, dropping the firewood."John don't-"

"John, we don't touch it," Scott said grabbing John's hand and pulling it away from the fire." it's hurt like touching one of mum's light bulbs."

he breathes a sigh of relief, oh he be grey before baby number three was even born at this rate.

"boys! Back away from that fire, I won't ask again," he said crossing his arms.

He was cooking their dinner over the fire when John yelled.

"stars! look stars!" John said, jumping up and down.

he chuckled "you be able to see even more after the sun fully sets." 

"really?! like what you see when you in space?"

"well, probably not that much without a telescope," he explained.

"Oh," John said, looking downcast.

"don't worry, kiddo. I packed my telescope, so you not going to miss out on anything" he said smiling at John, who was beaming by the time he finishes talking.

"thank you, daddy!" John said hugging him.

"ow!" Scott yelped.

"are you okay Scott?" he asked, concerned.

"mosquitos bit me," Scott said looking at his arm.

oh, yeah It does seems like the time mosquitos are coming out, he thought. 

"John, Scott come here," he said, walking over to the car and picking up the mosquitos repellent.  "stand still," he said as spraying mosquito repellent on Scott's arms and legs. "okay rub that in Scott."

He did the same for John and himself. 

"that should keep them away."

They ate dinner and after he tried teaching the boys how to make smores. Scott was watching him with an almost hawk-like stare, trying to copy him exactly. 

John, on the other hand, was more focused on the sky then his marshmallow that was getting a bit charred now.

But they both like eating the smores, if the chocolate all over there faces were any indication. 

"Okay, I think that's enough sweets for one day," he said, picking up the smores ingredients and standing up

"awww" both his boys said.

"can't we have one more, daddy?" Scott asked.

"no, Scott, you had enough," he said as he put the food back in the bear box.

"now, come on. let get you two cleaned up."

after a brief visit to the bathroom, he had two clean faced little boys snuggle into his side.

"daddy?"

"yes, John?" he asked.

"can you tell us some stories from about space?"

"Yeah, daddy, can you?" Scott asked as well.

Both of his boys were giving him their best puppy eyes look.

"Okay, have I ever told you of the time...."

"and then captain Tayler and i-" he stopped as he realises that both his sons had fallen asleep. 

Why couldn't they have fallen asleep this easily this afternoon? But he didn't really care right now. He thought as he picked both of them up.

With a few difficulties, Scott wasn't as small as he uses to be.

He tucked them into their sleeping bags and put out the fire.

Not a bad first day to this camping trip, a pretty good one actually, he thought smiling as he fell asleep himself, watching his boys sleep.

[freedom-shamrock]

Subtle Valse Musette - Chapter 1

Also on AO3 Chp 1   Chp 2   Chp 3   Chp 4   Chp 5   Chp 6 Marichat May day 5 prompt, yarning for you.

Marinette looked up as her window slid open to admit a tall blond young man dressed in a leather catsuit, mask and ears.  She smiled and shoved aside the design that was giving her trouble, eager for the break his arrival required.

"Hey Kit-cat," she said.  "It's been a few days, I was starting to worry you'd been picked up by animal control."

He grinned at her.  "I am far too slick for such a mundane demise."  He settled himself in the chair hammock that hung beneath her lofted bed.  "Just been busy."

She opened her mini fridge and pulled out some snacks.  He was always hungry, and she worried he didn't eat enough.  He was so thin, especially after that last growth spurt that pushed him over 193 centimeters "I saw that last akuma battle, and… I was worried about you.  You got knocked around pretty hard."

He waved a hand dismissively, tucking his feet up into the suspended chair.  "Ladybug always fixes everything. And my suit protects me from far more than seems possible."  He brushed his hands down his chest. "I've tried to figure out the physics involved, and… it just doesn't make sense."  He shot her a grateful smile. "But I really appreciate the concern, Princess."

She handed him one of the mini berry tarts she'd picked up last weekend.  The biggest disadvantage of living in a student residence hall, was that she didn't really have her own kitchen.  Sure, there was one she could use, but it was tiny, poorly furnished, and had really crappy appliances. It was better to just bring good stuff from her visits home.  Besides, her parents liked that her kitchen situation pushed her home regularly.

"Oh god, I love these," he said before shoving it entirely into his mouth and making happy noises.  "These are from your parents' bakery, I can tell." He tilted his head to the side. "Maybe I should bring you treats from their bakery to make up for all the ones I eat," he suggested.

"You don't have to," she said, shaking her head.  It was probably already too late to change his mind.  He was stubborn, but sweet. She slipped the rest of the treats onto the wooden crate that served as a side table to the chair.  She pulled out her knitting basket and plopped into the bean bag chair across from him. "So how've you been? How's civilian Chat Noir's life going?"

"Eh, the usual."  He shrugged. He'd first started visiting her after the Evillustrator incident.  Initially it was about twice a month, then three times a month as she got close to graduation.  When she'd moved into the residence hall to be closer to classes, and the studio where she did so much of her work, he suddenly started showing up much more often.  It was actually really nice, because she felt so alone here, especially at first. Sure, she'd gotten to know people, but none of her friendships were as vibrant and strong as those with her friends who'd followed their own paths.  She wondered if his best friends had gone off to schools farther away, like hers.

She pulled out her current project, letting her fingers pick up the rhythm while she chatted.  "Tell me something about your childhood," she suggested. He loved telling her stories, as long as they wouldn't reveal too much.  "It can be anything."

"Hmmm."  He rubbed at his chin and leaned forward to peer into her basket of yarn.

"No tangling them up," she teased.

"Pffft.  I'm not an actual cat," he said.  "But I can't help but be curious."  He reached in and drew out a ball of light blue yarn, soft and perfect for making scarves for crushes.

She smiled and waited.  Sometimes it was easier for him to talk about things in his distant past, when his life wasn't so over-scheduled and his family was happier.  She liked learning more about him, the guy who'd been her partner for so long, not that he was aware that she was Ladybug, of course.

He held the yarn, squeezing it as he leaned against the wide mesh of the chair's back and suspension.  "So you know how I've studied fencing for a long time?"

She nodded.  She'd learned that detail as both Marinette and Ladybug.  It had been obvious once she knew. He very often wielded his baton like an epee.  

"It's one of the activities I picked for myself, and it was kind of an accident."  He smiled, his fingers moving around the yarn in a way that looked suspiciously like kneading.  "My father was a fencer, and I guess he was decent at it, or maybe still is." He shrugged, blowing off the awful relationship she'd heard about before.  "But my mother was amazing. She competed at international levels… uh, probably shouldn't have mentioned that, but…"

"I won't look up past international fencing champions," she promised, fully meaning it.  His safety was too important to risk her discovering his identity, though at times, she kind of wanted to throw caution to the wind.

"Great."  He beamed at her.  "Anyway, Maman practiced every day.  Even though she'd retired from competition, she still loved the sport.  And she was so amazing to watch."  His eyes turned toward his hands, but the far-away look suggested he wasn't seeing his gloves or the yarn.  "I would sneak in and watch her, and then when I was able to escape from my tutors, I'd try to practice what I'd seen with Maman's gear.  Of course her swords were all too heavy and long for me, and eventually I made enough noise that I got caught." He let out a sigh, slow and content sounding.  "Pere was furious, but Maman laughed for the longest time." He met Marinette's eyes. "She ended up being my first teacher."

Seeing him happy about something from his childhood warmed her heart.  "Thank you Kit-cat, that was terribly sweet, and I'm glad you shared it."

"Thanks for reminding me."  He shrugged. "I'd kind of forgotten about that until now."

30 minute speed write. Sorry this was late. I wrote it last night, but was too tired to proofread it after herding smol Chinese dancers at a festival. I plan to hit today's prompt after taking the Girl Scouts horseback riding.

Valse musette is a form of waltz developed in France in the late 19th century often accompanied by a cabrette, hurdy gurdy, and/or accordian.

In addition to being a supply for knitting, yarning can refer to storytelling (telling yarns)

[ssreescribbles]

Shelter

Summary: Young Tseng needs to find a new place to sleep for the winter, but the pickings are slim and he is out of options. There is the small shrine just outside the town, but one does not intrude into the home of a god nilly-willy.

Tseng decides to try his luck and hope for the best.

Tseng stifled a cough into his hand. He couldn't understand why his troupe had abandoned him now, of all times. Was his performance lacking on-stage, off-stage? Sure, he wasn't the best acrobat, but his pickpocketing was superior. Was it his status as a recognised bastard? Whatever the reason, a week earlier Tseng had found himself waking from drugged sleep, wrapped in Master Ira's thief's jacket, to angry yells of the innkeeper that had let their troupe to rest in her stable. But that was over a week ago. Now Tseng No-Name, all of 11 years of age, shivered in his too-large coat before pulling it tighter around himself. It had been snowing the past couple of days and the temperature had dropped to several degrees below freezing, but now? Now the weather took a turn for the worse. The ankle-deep dirty snow was starting to melt into freezing cold, mud-brown slush. Tseng knew he'd have to find another place to bunk down for a while, maybe even until the spring arrived. His current hidelut was underground and would flood soon, and then freeze again. Besides, the pests were getting aggressive the further the winter progressed, and Tseng knew there were several months still to go before it would turn to spring. So now, he was casing out some potential new hideouts. There was the rarely-used ShinRa warehouse down the docs, but that place gave him the creeps, so he'd rather find a better alternative. There was the bell-tower, but the town guard patrolled there regularily. It would do in a pinch, but  life would be overly complicated and Tseng did not need another stressor in his life right now. Then there was the small shrine just outside the town. But one does not intrude into the home of a god nilly-willy, and Tseng had no precious gift to give outside himself, so he was reluctant to intrude. But so far, he hadn't found anything else suitable.

The warehouse was a bust. Word on the street was that ShinRa's Science Department had some new project, and the warehouse was stocked with tanks full of eerily glowing liquid and cages filled with local animals. So staying in there was out of the question. He had found some other potential hideyholes, but they were attics and storage sheds of occupied private properties so none of them were ideal, too risky to get caught in. So far, it seemed like the shrine was the only possible place. Tseng sighed. Just for a little while. Until he found somewhere else. Now, to find a suitable gift to bring, and hope that he wouldn't offend the god in the shrine enough to end up dead. Or worse.

Acquiring the required gift was an adventure and a half, but in the end, Tseng had managed to collect a bottle of good quality sake and enough rice and nori to make three (only slightly) misshapen onigiri and an incense cone, one of those earthy ones (he thought it was sandalwood, but don't quote him on that) instead of sweet flowery ones. With his offerings carefully packed in a worn and patched lidded reed basket and what little he owned either tucked away in his coat and it's many secret (and not so secret) pockets and packed in his ratty blanket, Tseng left his hideout, an old abandoned underground cellar, without looking back or saying goodbye. The trek to the shrine took him over an hour and he had to travel the last stretch of it in near-darkness, the winter sun having set before evening bell rang in the village. When he reached the vicinity of the shrine he shuddered, and it wasn't only because of the freezing cold and how wet he was. Before he entered, he stood some ways from the torii leading to the courtyard and took in the sight of the shrine. It was old and decrepit, no one having had the resources to take care of it after the old monk passed three winters ago. The three two buildings Tseng could see were omnious-looking, and the silence whispered around the corners while shadows danced and twisted on the rafters. It felt dangerous. Like a sleeping dragon. Tseng shivered again, pulling his coat on tighter. Then, he straightened, took a deep breath, straightened, and secured the offering basket more firmly before heaving his makeshift bag up, and stepping through the gate. He sloughed through the slush and headed straight towards the main shrine building. After stepping on the creaking veranda he set his bag next to a pillar and stood up, turning towards the large lattice door. It took some work to actually open it, the weather having warped the wood some. After having access Tseng entered, bowing over the basket he held to his stomach, and spoke using the dialect Master Ira had taught him. "This one asks for forgiveness for the intrusion. This one has come bearing gifts and seeking a boon." Getting no answer, Tseng straightened and took in the inside of the dilapidated shrine. The main area was the size of maybe 12 tatami mats, on the quick glance. In the center there was an old, chipping altar table, listing to one side. There was a cracking wooden pillar on either side of the altar, the red turned to faded brown. Otherwise, the room was empty. Tseng didn't make a sound as he approached the altar and bowed again. He knelt on the cold, dirty floor, righted the altartable to the best of his abilities and opened his basket of gifts and small supplies. He lifted a small clay bowl and few pieces of almost dry wood chips and bark. He picked his filched firestarter. It took a few strikes to light a spark and even longer to coax that spark into a small flame. Tseng quickly picked a long stick and lit it, setting it standing next to the bowl. Then, he placed a flat rock the size of his palm on the table and placed the incense cone on it. After that, he lifted the wrapped onigiri and set them on the other side of the bowl, opening the top of the wrapping. Next, came the sake. He set it next to the onigiri. Finally, he was ready. He lit the incense cone, letting it shimmer and spread it's scent, before cleaning the firebowl and -stick away, smothering the flame carefully. He took a deep breath of the slightly sweet smoke and exhaled slowly. Master Ira always said, when calling upon the gods for whatever reason, patience and calm mind is needed. Otherwise, you might end up offending the kami and bring misfortune upon yourself and maybe even to your family and clan. He clapped his hands once, waiting for three calm breaths, before speaking carefully, making sure to use his most refined dialect. "This one has brought gifts to honor the one ruling this house." This said, Tseng shuffled backwards, enough that he could bow his forehead to the floor, before speaking again. "This one has come to beg for a boon. This one is new resident to the Province, and so has no place to spend the winter season. This one asks to serve this shrine and its ruler for this season and the next, in exchange for staying on the shrine grounds." Tseng... wasn't really sure what he expected to happen. It definitely wasn't to hear a soft rustle from infront of him, or a breeze that shouldn't have been there. A quiet scratching followed by a barely-there paph and clicking tinkle. And then it all fell silent. The silence seemed to stretch into eternity, before another rustle was followed by a soft, clear voice. "Rise. We shall discuss your contract with me." The words were spoken in refined Wutaian, but the speaker had a slight accent. To Tseng, it made goosebumps race up and down his spine and he shuddered, hoping that he didn't offend the being. "How old are you?" Clicking, a bop, and then sloshing as sake was poured into a dish. Tseng rose to his knees, settling for seiza but kept his head bowed and eyes on the floor. "Eleven since the summer's end." "Hmmm... Such a meddlesome lady she is. If you wish for this boon, you will stay for a year and a half. If agreed upon, we can extend this time later. During that time I agree to house you, feed you, clothe you and for all intents and purposes, be your Master. In exchange you will be my servant, voice and hand and you shall obey me. Do you accept, Tseng No-Name?" "Yes." "As you wish it. Do rise your eyes and join me in sealing this contract." Tseng finally managed to force himself to look at his host, and just barely kept himself from gaping. The being infront of him was otherworldly. It was barely taller than an average wutaian female and wore androgynous face of a young person, with flawless milk-pale skin. It's eyes were blue and slitted like a cat's, while it's golden hair reminded Tseng of a chocobo’s feathers. Behind it rested a pair of large white wings, inelegantly half-sprawled on the floor. It's fingers were tipped with claws and when it smiled, Tseng swore he could see a flash of fangs. "You...are not a kami, are you?" It quirked it's thin lips into a wry smile. "No, I am not. I am the one called Cloud, you may consider me a youkai of a sort. This shrine is my home." "We will seal the contract by sharing sake and blood. Your hand." The creature held it's own clawed hand towards Tseng.

Cloud watched in the shadows with a wry smile on his face as the child scampered around his new room in the living quarters of his shrine, setting himself up for the night, wondering if Tseng would ever become a part of the ShinRa and its TURKs now that he had been sworn into Cloud's service. If he recalled his hazy memories right, this was around the time ShinRa had recruited Tseng. Well, no matter. For now, he would concentrate on teaching this small, vulnerable version of his old friend and watch as Gaia turns, waiting for both the power he had absorbed from Chaos when Vincent finally passed, and his own remnants of Jenova's cells to slowly wake up and fill him with life and energy. He would keep watch over his friends. He would protect them this time around. And, just maybe, he would meddle some too.

[miraculousstorytelling]

28&29 with Nino and Marinette?

This one was a lot of fun to write! I’ve also posted it to ao3. Thanks for the request!

“Are you sure you want to do this?”

“Yeah, why wouldn’t I?”

Marinette frowned down at their ingredients. “Well, macarons are really tough. I still mess them up sometimes.”

“I know but…” Nino shrugged. “It’s your favorite, right?”

She nodded slowly, a smile spreading over her lips. “Yes.”

“Then, I want to learn how to make them.”

“Okay, but you can’t say I didn’t warn you.” She tied off her apron behind her.

“So, what happens first?” he asked.

“Well, we have the baking sheets ready, and we both have our aprons on-”

“Did you give me one that says kiss the cook on it?” he asked, staring down at it.

“Maybe.” She grinned. “You don’t like it?”

“I definitely didn’t say that.”

“Tell you what…” Marinette gathered the almond flour and sugar. “For some extra motivation, how about I give you a kiss for each perfect macaron you make.”

He smiled. “I can work with that.”

“Good.” She handed him the measuring cups. “Let’s get started.”

She had to admit she was somewhat impressed Nino managed to measure and sift the flour-sugar mixture without spilling any.

“My first macarons were a lot messier,” she explained as she guided him through the next steps. “My mom was letting me help mix, and I dropped the bowl on the floor and started crying.”

“Weren’t you seven?”

She nodded. “Six, actually, but yes.”

He smiled. “I’ll still take it as a compliment.”

“You should. I was very advanced at six.”

“Lucky you,” he teased as she reached for the mixer. “When I was six, I was still begging my mom to stop piano lessons.”

“You took piano?” she asked.

“For a year and a half. I hated every second of it.” He sighed. “I kind of regret quitting now.”

“Well, it’s never too late to start up again.”

“Why don’t I master macarons first?”

She shook her head. “Nino, you have to understand. You don’t master macarons. You just do your best and hope they’re merciful.”

He raised a brow. “You really know how to make a guy feel confident.”

“You can do it, babe.” She leaned in to press a soft kiss to his cheek. “Now, come on, it’s time to mix.”

He hummed in agreement and carefully mixed the batter together.

“Okay, now up the speed a little, and lucky for you, I’ll add in the sugar and flour for you.”

He moved aside so she could pour, carefully maneuvering around the steady stream of their flour-sugar mixture. “Does your dad usually do all of this by himself?”

Marinette shook her head. “Sometimes he has to, but most of the time, macarons are a family project. We all help each other to make sure they come out exactly right.”

“Sounds like my mom when she’s working on family dinners. Everyone gets a turn watching the food or they don’t eat.”

“Well, it turned out well for you.” She set the bowl aside. “I mean, I’ve tasted your cooking, and it’s fantastic.”

“I’ll tell Mom you said that. She’ll be thrilled.” Nino peeked into the bowl. “She always promised me that I’d find a great wife if I could just learn how to cook.”

Marinette chuckled. “You do look cute in an apron.”

He blushed. “So do you.”

She grinned and glanced at the batter. “It’s looking good so far. Just needs a little more mixing.”

Sure enough, the batter started stiffening, taking on the shiny appearance Marinette had told him to watch for. “Is it done now?”

“Yeah, go ahead and stop mixing.” She smiled. “Now we fold the batter and add the coloring. We’re doing purple today, since we’re making lavender honey macarons.”

“That sounds amazing.”

“Trust me, it is.” Once everything was properly mixed, folded, and poured into a pastry bag, Marinette handed it to him. “Now, be careful with this. You know how hard it was to make.”

“I do,” he answered.

“I’ll help you, but if you make this overflow and ruin the batch, we’re going to have to start over,” she continued, equally serious.

He took the bag from her with a solemn nod and held it carefully. “So, how much do I add?”

“Just a little. Here. I’ll show you.” She slid between him and the counter, tucking her head under his chin and gently wrapping her hands around his. “So you want circles about this big. See?” As she explained, she squeezed his hand around the bag and poured batter onto one of the sheets they’d prepared earlier.

“So…” He moved over to a new spot and poured out another circle of batter. “Like this?”

She nodded. “Perfect.”

Before she could move away, he shifted so he was looking over her shoulder, leaving them both in a more comfortable position. “Maybe you could stay there a little longer just to make sure I’m doing it right.”

“Nino, are you looking for an excuse to keep me close?” she smirked back at him.

“Maybe.” He kissed her cheek. “Is it working?”

“Well, you are cozy.”

He chuckled, and the slow rumble of his laughter across her back made her smile and lean back into him. He hummed softly as he piped out batter, and she struggled to place the melody.

“What song is that?” she asked finally.

“Oh, a new one I wrote last night. It’s still a work in progress.”

She gently stopped him from moving away from one that was a little too small. “What’s it called?”

“Oh, um…” He shrugged. “Haven’t figured it out yet.”

“Really?” She raised a brow. “Aren’t you always talking about your working titles?”

He moved to another spot on the baking sheet and avoided eye contact. “Well, I’ve kind of been calling it Marinette.”

She turned to look at him. “You wrote a song for me?”

“It just reminds me of you,” he explained as he finished the sheet.

“Can you sing it for me?”

He made a face. “Oh, come on. You know I don’t sing.”

“But I like your singing.” She grabbed the other sheet and set it out while sending him a pleading look. “Maybe just a little bit of it?”

He sighed. “Okay, but it still needs work.”

She closed her eyes and listened as he sang a simple melody about dark hair and bright eyes, about sunlight and the comfort of finding home with someone you love. Once it was over, she reached back to thread her fingers behind his neck and  move up for a soft kiss. “I think it’s perfect.” She made a face when she saw the sheet in front of them. “Unlike your macarons.”

“Hey, you should have been paying attention. Aren’t you supposed to be supervising me?”

She tsked him and took the pastry bag. “For one, I was on a break, and for two, it was worth it.” She corrected a few of the misshapen attempts and returned the bag to Nino. “Try and finish up, okay?”

He nodded and reached around her to finish the second sheet. “Better?”

“Much.”

“So, in the oven now?”

“No.” She picked up one tray and tapped the base against the table. “To get rid of any air bubbles.”

He repeated the action with the first sheet. “Then?”

“Then we let them sit out for a little while. We can work on the filling while we do that.” She shot him a grin. “Don’t worry. This part’s much easier.”

She gathered the ingredients and guided him as he measured and mixed. He looked down at the filling. “It’s only a few ingredients, huh?”

She nodded. “Like I said, it’s pretty simple.” She scooped out a bit to taste it. “Mm. Perfect.”

“Can I try?” She nodded, and he dipped a finger in to try. “Wow.”

She chuckled and reached out to test the batter on the baking sheets. “Still needs a little more time.”

“We can clean up while we wait,” he suggested, looking around at the bowls and equipment waiting to be washed. Marinette kept an eye on the batter while they cleaned, and she finally declared it ready when the last bowl was set aside to dry.

The rest of the process was a little faster, putting one sheet in the oven, prepping the filling, pulling it out and putting in the second sheet, then finally placing them on cooling racks.

“Okay, careful when you take them off. My dad has a trick.” She demonstrated on two halves. “Just like that. Then, you put the filling on one side and put another side on top.”

“Easier said than done,” he murmured, already holding up a broken half.

“You can do it.” She held up the macaron in her hand for him. “You want them to look like this when they’re done.”

It took a few tries, but he managed to make eighteen full macarons with one half left over. Of the eighteen, Marinette and Nino agreed that seven met the standard of perfect macaron.

“So, I owe you seven kisses.”

“Sounds like it.” He smiled and settled his hands on her hips. “Ready?”

She grinned and stepped closer. “Always.” She began with a soft kiss to the corner of his lips. “One.” Then, she moved to press a second soft kiss to his cheekbone. “Two.” He chuckled as she pecked his lips. “Three.” Her next kiss was to his forehead. “Four.” Another to his lips. “Five.” She grinned as she pressed another to the tip of his nose. “Six.” Finally, she met his eyes and looped her arms around the back of his neck to tug him into a longer, sweeter kiss, her thumb rubbing over the nape of his neck as she held him in place and shifted closer. “Seven,” she whispered into his lips when she finally leaned back.

He looked down at her with that loving, dazzled look that always warmed her heart. “Beautiful.”

“Hmmm… Have I mentioned I love you?” she murmured.

“Yeah.” He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her to his chest. “And I love you, too.”

She closed her eyes and relaxed against him.

Written for this prompt list. I’m not currently taking new requests, but I am working through requests I’ve already received!

Forgot to mention, I had to look up a recipe, because I’ve never made a macaron before, but if you’re interested in the recipe I tried to follow, here it is!

[jinnieboo-blog1]

VIXX Hyung Line as college students

Based on my VIXX College Aesthetics :) I’ll be turning these into oneshots/imagines/fanfics soon ;) <3 I\ll do the maknae line soon too~

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

N - (aesthetic here)

- majoring in either theater or performing arts

- probably a member of the dance club

- known to be the most fashionable student in campus

- super charismatic; everyone loves this guy except for maybe 5VIXX since it’s a love-hate thing between bros

- classy af like legit classy; always wearing preppy outfits and can still dance amazingly in a blazer and button up and all

- may seem like a diva at first, but is actually a sweetheart

- the type of student who likes to wake up really early to admire the sunrise

- and likes to watch the sunset

- needs to have coffee when studying; scented candles help him too

- very organized and neat notes

- you meet each other when you are both paired with each other in one of your classes

- you are intimidated by him at first, but then you realize that he’s actually not that bad and is really friendly and caring

- he can be kind of diva-ish, but you actually find it amusing

- you two just really get to know each other overtime, doing projects, homework and studying

- like dang he really admires your diligence and hard-working attitude

- and he thinks you’re beautiful but not as beautiful as him

- he likes to show you his collection of old books and is rather proud of them

- one day, while studying in the library late at night, you start getting sleepy and like are half asleep so N for some reason tucks your hair behind your ear, causing you to open your eyes and sit back up

- and you and N kind of just stare at each other until N leans closer and you’re like “OMG what” but before you can do anything, N has already started to softly kiss you

- and it only lasted a few seconds, so when he pulls away, you’re kinda like “Aaawww” ‘cause he has the softest lips ever

- you two are just grinning at each other like cuties and he apologizes for being  too sudden, and you tell him it’s alright ‘cause it’s not like you didn’t like it but you’re just so flustered and N just smirks there

- like he tells you how much he admires you and is just really captivated by you so you blush and tell him that you’ve felt the same and aaayyy you kiss each other again

- when you two start to date, everyone just knows you two as being a really sweet, old-fashioned kind of couple

- you know, hand-written letters, dates in coffee shops and the park, shopping together, matching classy af outfits, cuddling each other while reading

- he likes to give you lots and lots of hugs

- Ken is constantly clinging to you like a little child like “Thank you for dating N he’ll finally stop smothering us with his mother hugs etc etc”

- you just giggle but then N is like “nah fam I’m still gonna show you all some love”

- but then he really shows you the most love and spoils you a lot but in a good way

LEO - (aesthetic here)

- majoring in Education because bruh this boy loves kids

- part of the soccer team because mad soccer skills

- constantly eating nad hungry but he burns it all away after training and practice with the soccer bros

- needs coffee 24/7; like every single day he needs to have his daily dose of coffee

- very, very, very smart like wooow

- people are intimidated by him (and his height) and are afraid to approach or talk to him but deep down and to those who really know him, he’s really gentle 

- he can shut someone up though with just a glare so beware of this gentle giant

- doesn’t like to always hang around with a group, so he’s usually alone somewhere peaceful and quiet; usually chilling or reading somewhere in the school’s rooftop garden or something of that sort

- one day, you are sitting by the bleachers, studying your notes while watching the soccer team practice and Leo’s in a bad mood so he accidentally kicks the ball too hard and it goes flying straight to you

- and you get hit on the face and the whole team is like “oh shi-” and Leo rushes to you and apologizes a million times and feels sooo guilty

- it kind of hurt and you hold your nose to make sure it’s fine so you just laugh and smile, saying that it’s alright and it’s nothing serious

- but then Leo still feels really bad ‘cause he’s really just a sweet kitten, so he gently holds your wrist and moves it away from your nose and he just looks so upset with himself ‘cause your nose is now bleeding

- and you start to blush not because it’s bleeding, but because Leo, who is really handsome oh my, is so close and staring at your face

- and then he insists to take you to the clinic, but then you don’t want to hassle him, so you tell him it’s fine and he should go back to practicing so he reluctantly agrees

- a few days later, you bump into each other in his favorite coffee shop and he’s like “how’s the nose?” and you’re like “completely fine” 

- and then it’s just an awkward silence so you’re like no practice today? and he says that there’s none and so you ask “what brings you here?” and he says that this is his favorite cafe, and you’re like NO WAAAY ME TOOO

- and he just brightens up and shyly asks if you want to join him for coffee, so you say yes

- you two just talk about coffee and how you both have a soft spot for them kiddos and Leo is just really enjoying and you get to see the side of him that not many people see; ya know he’s really sweet and gentle

- so you’re like you’re not that scary, unlike what other people say and Leo’s like I appreciate it and he smiles gently and your heart just goes BOOM

- you two just develop a close bond and so one day, after practice when all the other team members go to the locker rooms to change and all, Leo goes straight to you at the bleachers and you like offer him some water and a towel

- and as he catches his breath, you just look at him with admiration but then he turns to you and catches you staring so he’s like ??? and you’re like NOTHING HERE LET ME and you grab the towel from him and use it to ruffle his hair

- but then he gently takes your hands in his and stares into your eyes like mhhhmmm and before you know it, he gently plants a kiss on your lips like it’s really quick and you’re like LEO?!

- and then he’s just shyly looking down and smiling, so you end up smiling and kissing him too

- when you date, it’s just such a cute, fluffy sight; he’s very protective of you

- you two like to go to your favorite cafe, cuddles in bed, lots and lots and lots of spooning and shy kisses on your nose

- like Hyuk is like “hyung has a girlfriend?????” and you’re like YEAHP and Hyuk is about to say something Hyuk-like, so Leo shoots him a glare so Hyuk’s like “NVM CHEERS TO THE HAPPY COUPLE”

KEN - (aesthetic here)

- majoring in arts 

- member of the art club 

- really funny and a huge dork that everyone loves because he’s a precious cinnamon roll and is constantly doing aegyo all over the place

- looks extremely good in glasses and a killer smile

- the type of student who falls asleep in some classes, but still manages to get really good grades because he is smart anyway also very good with art yes its his major ofc

- has doodles and drawings of anything that happens in his everyday life; even his notes in class have doodles

- has a variety of pencils and ballpens in assorted colors

- likes to study with a view, meaning when he studies, he likes to be by the window or somewhere where he can enjoy the view

- you don’t really know him personally, but in the classes you have together, he’s usually asleep. Or if he’s awake, you never get to talk to him because you think you’d get flustered and embarrass yourself because he’s too handsome and cute

- but one time, he leaves his notebook in class, so like you look inside and see his amazing drawings, so you run to find him, but he’s no longer in the area and so you make it your mission to return it to him because how could he lose something so amazing? and maybe you can finally talk to him

- days later, you’re at the doing homework for your art class and Ken and his friend Ravi make noise, but you don’t mind them but then later on, Ravi has left and Ken has nowhere to sit because most of the seats are occupied, so he goes to you and is like “is this seat available?” and you look up surprised but manage to nod so Ken happily takes a seat

- you don’t talk to him because omg he really is cute and you don’t know what to say until Ken is like “heyyy you’re in my art class right?” and you reply like “Yeah, I see you there too”

- so he offers his hand and is like “I’m Ken!” and you smile at the gesture and shake his hand and say “I’m y/n” and he grins like a puppy and is like “nice to meet yaa”

- then he sees your drawing for the class homework thing and he’s like WHOOOO AMAZING and you blush like, no no you’re much better and Ken is surprised like “how would you know tho” and he leans closer and squints at you playfully but you end up blushing more when you remember his notebook

- so you pull it out of your bag and tell him that he left it the other day, and Ken’s like YOU’RE A LIFESAVER and you just chuckle and tell him that he really is good and Ken goes all aegyo and it just makes you laugh

- and then he looks at your drawing and is like “the homework is to make a portrait of someone?” and you’re like “Yeah. I’m doing a portrait of my best friend” and so you show him the picture you’re basing it on and Ken’s like “WHOA IT IS SO ACCURATE”

- you’re like thanksss! Who’s your subject/model and Ken’s like hmmm you? and you’re like “excuse me? me?” and Ken says that it would be weird if he asked Ravi or Hongbin to be his model/subject so he begs you and does puppy eyes and all sorts of aegyo so you end up agreeing

- the following days, your’re just in his dorm room, admiring how surprisingly neat it is while Ken sketches you

- during this time, you two just get to know each other, throwing all sorts of jokes and sharing stories haaaaaa it’s just a really pleasant time

- sometimes you two just snack on chips and watch movies when he wants to take a break

- when the day the portraits are due, he meets you at the library and tells you that the professor was amazed, so you’re like congrats! and he’s like YEAH! but I couldn’t have done it without you! and you joke around like “well...that’s true. I am the best. You better love and appreciate me” and Ken is like “You bet you are! Thank you so so so much I love you!”

- and then you hear that slip out of his mouth and look surprised, and then he realizes what he said, and you both just go red and shy and stare at each other and you’re like “I was just joking about you loving and appreciating me!”

- then Ken suddenly goes serious and moves closer to you, pinning you against the bookshelf and is like “what if it’s not a joke?” and you’re like whaaat and Ken just kisses you out of nowhere and says “I do love and appreciate you”

- so you’re like asdghauiwglgl but then you two resume to making out right there like he’s reallyyyy kissing you and pulling you as close as possible and like your fingers are lost in his hair and yeah you get it

- dating Ken means lots of kisses even in public, so much PDA...SO MUCH PDA, hugs everywhere, dates at the amusement or water park