#need to plan tomorrow's dinner... and for a few days in advance so i don't have to go out loads lol

[chqnified]

Best and worst part about living alone is figuring out what's for din dins

[koolades-world]

help im suck a bad wife I totally forgot it about his bday. had a chatic weekend so this is a little late, but it's the thought that counts right?

happy birthday to my favorite man and fellow cat lover <3333

Happy Birthday Satan!

While his brothers seemingly has no trouble figuring out what to get their youngest brother for his birthday, you were stumped this year. His brothers always found some sort of large group gift, and each of them pitched something smaller. You were also in on the group gift, since the other brothers would feel bad if your name wasn’t added. However, you’d already exhausted your ideas for small gifts for him.

One year, it has been a rare, signed copy of his favorite book that you hunted for. Another time, you’d arranged a lunch with his favorite author (with the help of Simeon). For his past birthday, you’d had a day just doing his favorite things, since at that point, you’d also been running out of ideas at that point.

But, you couldn’t show up empty handed to his party. While you knew that his love for you wouldn’t be affected by a simple gift, it was something you wanted to do for him. You thought for hours on it, and couldn’t come up with anything he didn’t already have. So, instead, you decided to handmake something. That way, he'd have that memory forever, and it would be unique.

So, you got to work. First, you decided to make a handmade card. It seemed a bit childish at first, but you knew he'd appreciate the sentiment. It took you about an hour to complete it in a way you were happy with. You set it aside and promptly began the more challenging task.

The way you and Satan had initially bonded was over Alice in Wonderland. You'd just so happened to have the book in your bag when you'd been teleported into the Devildom. That, along with the other contents of you bag, were scattered around the room you'd been given. Satan had entered your room for some trivial reason neither of you remembered, and had had his attention diverted by the book on your desk. Your first real conversation was about the book. The conversation had gone so well, in fact, the two of you agreed to get coffee together the next day to continue the talk. After the events of the Lucifer-Satan body swap, the rest was history.

The book itself was now in poor condition. The pages were worn and stained. The cover was falling apart and taped back together in a few places. It was clear that the book was loved, and that the two of you had flipped through it easily hundreds of times. In honor of the beginning of your relationship, you decided to refurbish the book, and give the cover a well needed makeover. Using what he had taught you, you used a spell to repair the cover. However, you'd decided to leave the pages the way they were. It was still legible, and you loved that it was easy to tell how loved it was. Rather than just leaving it there, you designed and handmade a new jacket for the book that encapsulated all the memories you'd made together thanks to this very copy of the book.

The overall project took you easily all night. You could've put it down and done it in a few sessions, but you just couldn't. You wanted nothing more than to complete it. Once it was done, you tucked it under your bed in a box easily a week in advance for his birthday. So, you didn't really think anything of it when the other brothers caused a ruckus in your room the day of his birthday.

"Boys! Go get changed for Satan's birthday dinner. We're going to be late." You entered your room, already in the outfit you planned to wear. Asmo and Mammon seemed close to squaring up in the center of your room. Neither of them were ready, oddly enough. They acknowledged you, but didn't stop. "I don't care what this argument is over. Just go change and I'll sort it out later, ok?" You sighed, and tried to shoo them out of the room.

"But it wasn't my fault." Mammon insisted.

"We can talk about this tomorrow. Go get ready." It was odd of neither of the usually amiable brothers to budge. Usually, they caved pretty easily for you. You stopped Beel, who was passing by. You were not in the mood to bargain with them.

"Beel, please do me a favor and get them out of here? I have some snacks I can give you here somewhere." You quickly opened your bedside table and pulled out a bag of unopened chips. Beel happily accepted them, and did as you asked. Both Asmo and Mammon flipped out after their standoff had been interrupted. It involved lots of flailing of limbs, and the dragging of the carpet. It was pulled out just enough to reveal the nicely wrapped present. With several well timed swinging of limbs, the present was kicked through the open door, and into a table in the corridor. Before you could even think about running to get it back, a vase filled with flowers topped off the table, and onto the present.

You rushed to the present, inspecting it. It was completely drenched in water and covered in wet flower petals. You didn't want to open it, but you knew the book was likely ruined. As you were making the debate, crouched down in the hallway, the demon you wanted to see least in that moment walked up to you.

"I heard commotion." Satan rushed towards you. "You're not hurt, are you?" He glanced into you room, and took a large step back as Beel passed through with the spatting brothers.

"No, I'm alright. Thanks for asking." You let out a dejected sigh.

"I won't ask, if you don't want to tell me." Satan offered.

"It's only fair that I do." You weren't exactly sure how to go about explaining the situation. You got off the ground, and extended the soggy box to him. "Happy birthday." You tried to sound as happy as possible.

"You don't have to give this to me now." Despite his words, Satan accepted the present.

"It's probably ruined, but I felt bad opening it myself." When Satan saw that you weren't going to budge, he began opening it.

"I'm sure it's still fine." The wrapping paper gave way easily, and the waterlogged cardboard top was placed onto the same table the flowers had been on. Satan's face light up at the sight of the contents of the box. He set the other side of the box down and lifted the book into the air. It was untouched any traces of water, and looked just as it had when you'd wrapped it up.

"Mc, this is beautiful." He opened the book, and quickly realized just exactly what copy it was.

"It's not damaged." You were astonished.

"How long did this take?" He flipped it over in his hands, running his fingers over the picture of the two of you on the back cover.

"About a night." You admitted, hoping he wouldn't lay into you about it.

"Did you do this last week, when you were locked up in your room?" Laughed edged his voice.

"You know me too well." You couldn't help smile yourself.

"The reason why it's probably not damaged is whatever repair spell you used on the book. But, it just as equally could be the amount of love you put into this." As he said that, the picture of the two of you sheened a glittery gold.

"Well, this isn't how I'd planned to give it to you, but I'm really glad you like it." You opened your arms, offering him a hug. He accepted, leaning into you.

"I love it." He gave you a kiss on the forehead. "Since it's my birthday, I'd like you to read this with me." He smiled.

"You're finally using your birthday powers, I see." When you'd first introduced to concept to him, he'd thought it was strange. But now, he was more than happy to use it in his favor.

"So? Will I be seeing you?" He teased you.

"We're going out to dinner together, and we're coming back to the same house. Of course you will." You took note of just how quickly the sight of his smile could turn around a sour mood.

"Great. It's a date then." He gave you another little kiss before letting you go to take your hand. "Let's head to the front. Not everyone is ready yet, so we can have some us time." Satan held the book in his other hand.

"I like the sound of that." You felt so lucky to have him in your life. "Happy birthday, Satan."

[whispersafterdusk]

Heart of Stone - ch 17

Unsuur had to admit, it was a really gorgeous horse.

Its mane was pure glossy black and the rest of its fur was black speckled with tiny spots of gray and white, with a oval-shaped white mark over its left eye and around the ear. Dawn had named her Midnight; it was a fitting name since the horse did look like a star-filled night sky, and she was rather cuddly for a horse too - the whole time they had been standing here talking to Elsie Midnight had been all but begging for attention and affection from all three of them.

(And maybe some treats too, but he wasn't carrying any right now and Dawn apparently didn't have any secret horse treats on her either). ((Continued below cut))

"Well, she's all yours," Elsie said as Midnight pushed her nose into Dawn's hair again. "Let me know if you want any advanced riding lessons or something, but I think you know enough to handle what you've gotta handle."

"Thanks Elsie, I appreciate it." Dawn reached up to pat the inquisitive nose with a smile. "I'll be starting patrols tomorrow afternoon now that I've got Midnight here."

"How's the water tower coming along?"

"Right on schedule - in the morning I'll set everything up to make the last set of plates for the water tank, then I'll haul the finished frame over to the base and get it put together so I can put the tank and filtration system in place when they're done. Mi-an also needs the frame up so she can get the pump installed."

Midnight took that moment to nudge Unsuur with her nose, and he stroked her cheeks and neck. "If you're starting patrols tomorrow does that mean you're done training with Pen?"

"Yeah, he thinks I'm as ready as I can be," Dawn answered with a snort. "I think he got bored with the training."

"That doesn't really sound like Pen. He loves fighting."

She smiled at him - there was an underlying something to it, he thought it was maybe annoyance or exasperation. "He loves fighting, not so much teaching. There was a lot of showing off being done along with giving instructions."

"Ah."

Dawn took the lead from Elsie and took a few steps away, Midnight following along happily. "Thanks again. I'll eventually have time to have dinner with you and Mi-an."

"Yeah, yeah. You need to learn how to take a break," Elsie grumbled. "I keep telling you builders and you never listen."

With a quiet laugh and a shake of her head Dawn headed off with Unsuur hurrying to catch up and walk alongside her. "Did you have any plans for later?"

"Just an early night. I'll be getting up super early to get that frame in place." She looked over her shoulder at Midnight. "I'll get this girl settled in, get a few things ready for the morning, then head to bed."

Unsuur nodded. "All right. I'm sure Justice already knows but I'll tell him that you're ready for patrols, so we definitely shift to the new schedule tomorrow." He paused, tilting his head to get a good look at her face. "Are you sure you still want to do this?"

She turned her head to smile at him. "I am. Don't worry about me."

"Will I get in trouble if I say I won't worry and worry quietly instead?"

Laughing she gently elbowed him and kept going. "C'mon - you can at least get a look at my new stable before I have to crawl into bed."

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

When Dawn and Mi-an stepped away from the final adjustments to the tower's base there was a loud roar of applause and cheers - it was done. The tower was done and with two days to spare before the next water shipment came in so the entire town could breathe a little easier and relax their water rationing just a tiny bit.

And, with Dawn helping out with patrols now, both he and Justice were getting a midday nap in (staggered, of course - couldn't have both of them asleep at the same time) and Unsuur could honestly say he felt more human and less like a wrung out and worn out sock. As Dawn threaded her way through the crowd to come tightly hug herself against him he could tell she was feeling great too - she didn't even seem to mind it when Pen gave her a congratulatory (if a bit rough) pat on the back as she went passed.

Unsuur rested his chin on top of her head and let out a relieved sigh. Sandrock was back to normal again. Hopefully it would stay this way for awhile.

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

Every so often Dawn woke up right before the alarm went off so sometimes Unsuur would wake up to a muffled clang-click noise. This was another of those mornings though it was less the sound rousing him and more Dawn having to lean away from him to reach it; as she rolled back onto her back beside him and went to stretch Unsuur scooted down in the bed and put his head on her chest, slipping his arms around her again.

She giggled softly and patted the top of his head. "Good morning. Sleep all right?"

Unsuur let out a contented hum and inhaled deep; she still smelled like the soap she'd used in the shower last night, along with a touch of clean linen from the sheets.

"I'll take that as a yes. I think I want eggs with my toast this morning - would you also like a few?"

He let out another little hum that he hoped sounded affirmative enough and felt his hair rustle as Dawn nodded (at least that's what he thought she did - he wasn't looking up at her) and went to sit up but Unsuur remained in place on top of her, getting a small laugh in response. "We do have to get up, Unsuur."

"Not yet." He could hear her heartbeat loud and clear, laying like this.

She laughed again. "You're going to be late for your patrols."

"Nah," he said, pressing a kiss between her breasts. "A few minutes to enjoy the morning won't hurt." A shiver went down his spine and spread a pleasant tingle down his legs as Dawn's hand shifted to lightly scratch his back - now he understood why Captain loved having his back scratched (he would not be sticking his backside in the air, though).

"Oh all right, fine."

There was a pretend annoyance in the words; Unsuur looked up to see her smiling at him.

"Are you having dinner with Mi-an and Elsie tonight?"

"That's tomorrow night."

"Why don't I make dinner tonight then?" he asked, rolling onto his elbow to let her sit up. She slid her legs from under the light cover and over the edge of the bed; her shirt had ridden up in her sleep and Unsuur reached over to tug the hem back down, resisting the urge to run his fingers along her side. "I feel guilty that I haven't gotten as many chances to cook for you as you have for me lately."

"It's not a competition, I just like cooking for you," she said, moving to retrieve a clean shirt out of her dresser.

He allowed himself a moment to admire her bare legs while ignoring how sore his own felt as he finally got up from the bed. "I know. I still feel guilty though."

"Says the man who insists on doing the dishes," Dawn retorted, sticking her tongue out at him. "Even if he's dead on his feet."

"It's not so bad now. You taking on the patrols here in town has really helped -- even Captain is getting a cat nap in the afternoon." Unsuur carefully straightened the pillows and cover as Dawn ambled passed him. "Though, I might need to get some heavier curtains to block out more of the sunlight coming in through the windows."

Dawn paused at the door into the bathroom. "I could make you some canvas screens to hang in the windows? You could pull them up and down like a set of blinds, just without any gaps to let light inside."

Unsuur thought about that for a moment, then nodded. "I think that would work better than curtains."

"I can get the canvas started right away, at least. Do you mind if I stop by later to get measurements for the frames?" she asked as she stepped into the bathroom - she left the door open a gap, waiting for his answer.

"I don't mind. In fact, I don't mind if you stop by for any reason - and if I'm not there, you have my full permission to go inside anyway. Wilson likes having company over."

There was a quiet giggle and the gentle click of the door latching as she pulled it closed. Unsuur got dressed and headed into the kitchen to get a pot of coffee going; as Dawn came into the room there was a timid knock at the door - he was just as surprised and curious as she was, because who would need to show up here before 7am? Dawn hurriedly tucked her shirt in and went to open the door, and peering over her shoulder Unsuur was surprised to spot Mayor Trudy. When was the last time he'd seen her? It'd been...months, easily.

"Hello there, Dawn! I've heard all about you - so glad to finally meet you face to face! I'm Trudy, the mayor of Sandrock."

"Oh, hello! Nice to meet you too," Dawn replied, pulling the door further open. "Would you like to come in for some coffee?"

Trudy waved her hands, looking a bit flustered at the offer. "Oh, no no, that's fine. I just wanted to come by and introduce myself since I just got back in town. We don't get a lot of new folks so I'm mighty glad you're here! I'd also like to extend an invitation to the next Fireside on Sunday - we've got a lot to talk about. No doubt you've heard about what Logan's done..." she sighed.

"Yeah, most of it...and fixed the latest problems too," Dawn said, echoing Trudy's sigh. "Rest assured I'm intending to stick around."

"That's good to hear, and we're happy to have you!" Trudy smiled and went to leave, but turned back after only a single step. "Oh, erm...actually, there is one small thing I could use help with. Although, I'm sure you're very busy..."

"Not as busy as I was building the new water tower - what do you need?"

"You don't need to trouble yourself too much with this but... I do need a new desk at City Hall. It seems Matilda took a liking to my old one and made off with it, ahah!"

Dawn straightened where she stood, briefly looking back at Unsuur questioningly; Unsuur shrugged - this was the first he was hearing of desk theft. "Uh...she just...took your desk?"

Again Trudy waved her hands. "I'm sure she'd give it back if I asked but...perhaps it would just be easier if we both had nice desks, don't you think? So if you do get time, it would be quite nice of you to help me with this minor thing."

"Uh, sure. A desk isn't that hard to make, even a fancy one. Do you want a matching chair?"

"If it's not too much trouble..."

"Nah, no trouble at all. I'll get to work on it later this evening."

"Thank you! And, eh, well, so long!"

This time Trudy did actually leave; Dawn silently shut the door behind her, turning around and again looking to Unsuur with a bewildered look on her face. "Who the heck just steals a desk?"

"No idea, but I'll check with Justice to see if we should do anything about it."

With another sigh Dawn walked over to get the mugs out for the coffee. "Guess I know what I'll be piecing together after I get your screens done."

After they'd each had their coffee, toast, and eggs they walked hand in hand toward the gate where they met Jasmine coming toward them waving a letter in her hand.

"Good morning, Dawn! Got a letter for you today! Did you get to talk to my ma?"

"I did! Thank you," Dawn giggled as she took the envelope from her and waved as the girl hurried off. "Oh, it's from Nia," she said after a pause, looking the front of the letter over.

"You sound surprised."

"Not entirely - she WAS writing pretty frequently for awhile, but I know this semester's mid-term exam period just finished so she was probably just busy studying." Dawn pulled her hand from his to slip a finger under the flap and pop the glue loose to get at the paper inside; Unsuur needed to get going so he bent to kiss her temple but paused when she hissed a quiet 'shit' as she looked the letter over.

"...something the matter?" he asked, blinking at her before standing up straight again.

She let out a low growl and crunched the letter in her hand. "At least she warned me ahead of time instead of just showing up on my doorstep..."

"What's wrong?"

Dawn closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "-did I ever tell you about Emile?"

Emile... That sounded familiar. When had he heard-- Oh. "That was the person who brought you postcards from the...observatory, right?"

"That's the guy. He's my ex-boyfriend."

Unsuur nodded slowly; he didn't quite understand where this was going just yet.

After another breath Dawn opened her eyes, frowning. "Nia did visit me a few times in Atara, and met him through me. When I broke things off with him he and Nia eventually gravitated toward each other - which I was fine with," she added in a hurry. "If they make one another happy it's fine, whatever, not my business. The problem is Nia plans to come visit, and Emile will be coming with her."

"...oh," Unsuur replied softly. Immediately a war broke out in his head between feelings of suspicion and worry. "That's...bad."

"It is, and it isn't," Dawn said, pressing the heels of her palms to her forehead (the letter still clenched in her hand left a smear of ink behind thanks to the sheen of sweat on her face - there was no escaping it, not even this early in the morning). "I'm over him. Fully over him. I just don't know if he's over me. If he IS, then great! No issue! We can double date when they get here and have a good time! If he's not, I...really don't want to cause any friction between him and Nia, and I REALLY do not need another person chasing after me when I'm happily taken."

"Do I need to do anything? Do you want me to do anything?" The worry and suspicion were still there but not directed at her of course, and it seemed like she had the same feelings as he did about this sudden surprise visit (it also felt a little rude to invite themselves here without checking if that was ok first).

After a pause she shook her head and thumped her forehead into his chest as she let her hands drop to her sides. "No. There's really not much you COULD do in this situation. Just know I have zero interest in Emile and I will knock his nose off center if he even hints at wanting me back. Arvio's lucky he's stayed out of arm's reach since his last stupid scheme."

Unsuur blew out a breath. "-you sure do joke about assaulting people a lot."

She laughed, looking up at him. "I'm tiny and full of rage? But in all seriousness, this sort of thing does get really annoying - no means no, dang it."

He smiled after a moment and used his thumb to wipe the ink off her skin. "Just as long as you don't actually follow through, unless you absolutely have to."

"Griping about it is catharsis enough and if I do get to a point where I feel threatened enough to hit someone it wouldn't be just me at fault anyway."

"That's true. Though, if you do, I'll be sure to place you under house arrest, so you don't have to share a cell with whoever you beat up."

She giggled and shook her head. "And then what, stand guard so I don't sneak off to do my builder things?"

"Sounds like I'd have to, if you're already planning on breaking out of...uh...your house, I guess. I'll make sure I'm there the whole time keeping an eye on you so you complete your punishment."

Blushing lightly she nudged him toward the tracks. "I don't need a criminal record to want to stay home all day with you, you know... G-get to work before you're late."

"It'll be ok. I'll help rehabilitate your criminal ways."

"Shooooo," she groaned, trailing off into laughter.

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

"How's your wrist?"

Unsuur didn't look up from the wanted poster in front of him - he was on the eyes now, and those were tricky. "It's not hurting. The stretches really help."

"That's good to hear. Just don't forget to do the cool down ones too."

A sandstorm had hit yesterday and blown all the posters away. Again. Justice had given him a day off to get at least 20 more drawn (Unsuur was confident he could get 30 done if he really pushed himself - Dawn had shot that down though). He'd spent all day cooped up in his house drawing and was going a bit stir crazy but then Dawn had come by with the canvas screens; there was still an insistent need to go outside and stretch his legs but with her to talk to now it was easier to ignore.

As she finished with the last screen there was a very obvious difference to the lighting in the room when Dawn hopped off her step ladder and pulled the screen down, and then again as she moved over to the other windows and pulled those down too. This was about as bright as it was at night with only the lamps on (which, thankfully, he had a lamp on the table next to him to avoid any eyestrain while he drew these things so the room wasn't completely dark). "Wow. Napping is going to be way easier."

"They should help muffle outside noise too," Dawn said, brushing her hands off.

"But not too much, right? I want to be able to hear if there's trouble." Unsuur sat his pen down and stood up to stretch before heading over to examine the screen. There was a little brass knob set into a hollow metal dowel where the bottom edge of the canvas was secured. As he watched Dawn twisted the knob gently and the screen began to slowly glide upwards, guided by metal tracks on either side and the roll of canvas was then hidden at the top behind a metal cover that she'd painted to match his window frames.

"If someone is shouting or exploding you'll hear it but people walking by talking normally should be less noticeable. Now, how these work is you use this knob here to lock the screen into place - it's all springs and tension, you can lower it all the way or stop at any point along the tracks. Just tug it down-" she pulled it down about halfway and twisted the knob, and Unsuur heard a soft click, "-and twist, and it'll stay."

It did in fact stay in place when she took her hand away. Unsuur reached over and tested the knob; she'd turned it to the right and it wouldn't go any further that way so he turned it left. There was another click and he immediately felt a bit of tension against his hand as whatever it was that would roll the screen up was no longer being held back. He let go and watched as it smoothly wound itself back up until the dowel was flush with the bottom of the case at the top. "Pretty neat. Thank you so much."

"You're welcome." She rose up on her toes to kiss his cheek then went to gather up the few tools she'd brought.

Unsuur pulled the screens back up and as she walked by him to pick up a screwdriver he grabbed her waist and pulled her in for a quick kiss. "-are you ready for tomorrow?"

The smile prompted by the kiss faltered some. "I... Kind of. It'll be nice to see Nia again but I'm still on the fence on seeing Emile."

"It's only a few days, at least."

"Yeah, true. And they'll be staying at the saloon so if all else fails I'll just avoid the place until they're gone."

Unsuur returned to the table and sat back down, picking his pen up and starting to add in the eyelashes. "I'll bring you dinner if you want to hide in your house until they leave."

Laughing she headed for the door. "I am not going to let them run me out of my home, whether that's Sandrock itself or my own house."

"But they can have the saloon for a few days?"

With a snort she tugged the door open. "Unless Owen chucks them out and they have to sleep in the train station. Knowing how Nia can get that might be a possibility."

Unsuur looked over toward the door at that, intending to ask what she meant, but she was already out and the door was closing. From what he'd heard about Nia he didn't think she was a troublemaker -- she couldn't be THAT bad or else Dawn wouldn't be friends with her...right? Or, how desperate had Dawn been back then to get away from her mother? Maybe it was some combination of Nia plus this Emile guy that caused some...bad behavior? Weird behavior? Annoying behavior? Some clarification was going to be needed but first he had to get these wanted posters done. He turned back to the poster in front of him and started shading in the collar; this set of them wouldn't be as detailed as the last set since he was limited on time but he was still pleased with how they were coming out, and the more he drew the quicker he was getting at it. At this rate he'd know Logan's face better than Logan himself would.

...actually, no, that was weird.

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

Unsuur waited calmly beside Dawn as the train chugged into the station; the number of people getting off was barely more than a trickle (the sand sledding thing really hadn't recovered from the water tower attack... Tourism levels hadn't budged much since then) so it wasn't long before a short blonde woman accompanied by a tall dark haired man exited the train car and the girl rushed over to throw arms around Dawn's shoulders.

"Look who it is! I've really missed you, Dawn!"

"Hey!" Dawn laughed, hugging the other woman tightly for a moment before pulling back, hands on her shoulders as she leaned side to side, looking her hair over. "It looks even better in person!"

Nia did similar, looking Dawn up and down. "Thanks! Let me see...alright, you seem fine so that's a start. Have the sand bandits been caught yet? Were you scared back then? I mean, I think I would have been."

Dawn huffed out a breath. "No, they haven't, and yes I was. Just a fence between me and their leader, but he just warned me not to get involved and left."

"Well you'd better listen then!" Nia replied, propping her hands on her hips. "And what's taking them so long? Is this Logan guy really as nefarious and cunning as the papers say?"

"It's just a lot of desert to search, Nia," was Dawn's answer. She took a step back from her and put her hand on Unsuur's arm. "So, this is Unsuur. Unsuur, this is Nia and Emile."

This entire time the man had been standing several feet back from the little reunion, smiling a bit but also acting like he was trying to not look in their direction - either out of respect for letting the two girls have a moment or out of awkwardness, Unsuur couldn't tell.

At mention of his name Emile turned his attention fully to the gathering and offered a hesitant smile. "Er, hello."

"Hi," Unsuur said. Emile was the tallest of the group but very thin; he had pale green eyes and was wearing a button up short sleeved shirt of almost the same shade. "Nice to meet you."

"Likewise."

They all paused as Jensen sat a pair of suitcases down beside Nia and Emile, grunting with effort on one of them. "There you go! Enjoy Sandrock!"

Nia reached down and grabbed the lighter one. "I brought you a whole bunch of stuff! But! For now, I'll let you and Emile catch up and Unsuur here can show me to the Blue Moon. Bye!"

"Wait, Nia-"

And with that Unsuur found himself yanked toward the stairs by her arm suddenly looped through his; he stumbled and nearly fell down the steps before managing to get his feet under him, and tried to dig his heels in a bit against Nia's insistent pulling.

"Wait a moment-"

"Oh don't worry about those two - Emile needs to get a very long overdue apology out of his system. In the meantime we can drop this suitcase off at the saloon and then you and I can have a talk."

She emphasized 'talk' in a way that made him worry this was going to be a long conversation, and Justice had only given him an hour this morning to be there at the station with Dawn. "The saloon is...over there, in front of us. And now I have to get back on patrol."

"You can spare a few minutes, surely. I need to make sure you're good enough for my best friend."

She had an iron grip on his arm and dragged him along into the saloon. Inside Owen looked up to greet them and paused, mouth slightly open and confusion apparent on his face; Nia finally let him go and Unsuur stood just inside the doorway awkwardly as she skipped up to the bar.

"Morning! I'm Nia - I telegraphed ahead to reserve a room?"

Owen quickly recovered and offered her his usual smile. "Ah, of course! I've got your key right here - room number three, just up the stairs."

"Thanks! I'll be right back," she said, directing the last half at Unsuur as she hurried by.

Once she was gone Unsuur glanced back to Owen. "...how do I politely escape?"

Owen let out a chuckle - he still looked a bit confused as he glanced briefly up at the ceiling (where the rooms were, approximately) before looking back to Unsuur. "Want me to run interference?"

"Please?"

He gestured for Unsuur to run out the door and Unsuur quickly retreated outside, pausing to take a deep breath and then hurrying off for the start of his first patrol of the day; since it started at Hammer Time he took a moment to gaze across the tracks and could see Dawn and Emile standing in Dawn's yard. Emile had the other suitcase with him and there was a healthy bit of distance between the two; he couldn't clearly make out either of their expressions from here but as he watched he could see Emile sigh deeply and rub a hand against the back of his neck. Whatever apology the man had to give it seemed like he was getting it out of the way immediately.

Unsuur tensed when he heard the saloon's door open and then spun on his heel, speed-walking up the hill and into the tunnel.

Even if he wasn't short on time her declaration of needing to make sure he was good enough for Dawn was reason enough for him to not want to talk to her if he could help it. She might be Dawn's best friend but this first impression wasn't...great? What would she even do if she decided Unsuur wasn't up to her standards? HER standards didn't matter - he wasn't dating her, he was dating Dawn. Would she encourage Dawn to break up with him if she found him lacking?

Dawn hadn't been looking forward to this visit because Emile would be there but now having met Nia Unsuur was kind of hoping they'd leave early.

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

Nia was... She just was. Energetic, authoritative, and if Unsuur was being honest, pretty full of herself too. These last two days had been planned out by her and if any of them had any other suggestions on what to do, what to eat, how to spend their time, she sort of rolled over it and kept going. There were times where Unsuur looked to Dawn to both check how she seemed to be feeling and also try to glean how he should react or what to say and she seemed exasperated at times but otherwise just let Nia do her thing.

Emile on the other hand was a total blank slate; he didn't talk much unless someone spoke directly to him, he did what Nia told him to do, and if he was enjoying himself he was giving off no hints of it. Unsuur actually felt a little bad for him -- not only was he not dating Dawn anymore but he'd chosen someone like Nia to replace her.

...that was a bit unfair. All Unsuur knew of Nia was what she was choosing to show him now. She and Dawn had grown up together, there had to be more to her than this.

And, admittedly, he wasn't spending too much time with her, and he didn't think Dawn was getting to spend that much time either. They both had their patrols along with Dawn still having her builder stuff she had to do, and from what he'd gathered from the chatter when they all sat down to dinner the last two nights was Nia was spending most of her time at the Moisture Farm -- she was a botany student so...he guessed she was getting some lessons from Zeke? Or something. He wasn't really sure.

Tonight was their last night here in Sandrock and they'd be catching the train back to Highwind tomorrow; this time they were having dinner at Dawn's place, and both women had shooed him and Emile out of the kitchen so he'd found himself sitting awkwardly on the opposite end of the couch from the man who did not seem inclined at all to talk to him. If it had been anyone else other than Dawn's ex-boyfriend Unsuur would have been fine with the silence (he liked sitting silently and did it pretty often on his own) but he had the slightest nagging feeling that Emile (obviously) didn't like him along with a hint that the man didn't feel welcome here either. Unsuur couldn't do anything about the former but he could try to do something about the latter.

"Did you enjoy Sandrock?" he asked quietly. Behind them the girls burst into laughter over something or another and Unsuur wondered if Emile even heard him as he didn't really react at first.

Finally Emile took a deep breath and turned his head just enough to look over at him. "Yes, I did. The landscapes here are rather awe-inspiring, and I was surprised to find a fellow architect here in town. She was good company and has a sharp mind for design."

Guess that explained what he'd been doing to pass the time. "Yeah, Heidi is pretty smart and good at designing things. She writes for our newspaper too."

"Ah? She didn't mention that."

Emile fell silent again and after it dragged on awhile Unsuur figured he wasn't going to add more to that part. "Did you two get to try sandrunning?"

After another long pause Emile shook his head. "No. If Nia wasn't with Dawn she was at the farm. I plan to visit again in the future so, perhaps then."

"Catori owns the sandrunning stuff and wants to make it a yearly thing, like a festival. You should try visiting then. It'll be fun."

Finally a faint smile from the man. "I don't intend to limit myself to festivals, but...it's a possibility."

"Dinner is done you two!" came Nia's singsong call then. Unsuur stood and as he went to step around the end of the couch to head to the kitchen Emile stood up far faster than Unsuur could have predicted and grabbed his sleeve, yanking him close.

"Don't screw this up. Regret is not something you get over quickly," was all he said, voice pitched low and then letting go of the sleeve just as quickly as he'd grabbed it.

Unsuur stared at him as the other man headed over to the kitchen with a totally normal expression on his face - like nothing had just happened. Don't screw this up. He assumed 'this' was his relationship with Dawn and of course he didn't plan to screw anything up -- this was probably the most thought-out thing he'd ever done in this life (if anything he was OVER thinking most things) and there was a comforting amount of confidence and relief in that. If he did mess something up it would never be on purpose...was it meant to be just a warning, or a hint that he'd actually done something wrong?

His sleeve was wrinkled and the rolled cuff had been uncomfortably pulled down his arm and Dawn gave him a curious glance as he came over to the table fiddling with it. He gave her a small shrug as he finally got it back in place and sat down; as usual Nia dominated the conversation, full of chatter on what she'd learned from Zeke and then how much she'd miss Dawn.

"You really should come visit Highwind again -- we've gotten some new cafes, a new library, and they finally redid that park near the shore."

Dawn shook her head, wrinkling her nose. "Absolutely not. I don't want to see my family. If they ever move away then I'll consider it."

Nia huffed and crossed her arms, pouting. "We can just ignore them if we run into them - I don't even think any of your brothers are living at home anymore so there's way less of your family hanging around."

"Doesn't matter. If they're there, I won't be. And besides, I'm not really interested in going on vacation any time soon."

"But that means I have to come all the way out here!"

Dawn shrugged. "Sorry, but I'm not budging on this one: I'm never going back to Highwind so long as my parents are still there."

"But-"

"No means no, Nia," Unsuur said then. Everyone looked to him in surprise - he was surprised he'd said it himself - and a breath or two later Dawn's expression melted into one of gratitude before she stood up and went to refill her glass from the pitcher of tea sitting on the counter (there hadn't been room on the table for it along with the dishes of food and their plates). Nia gave Unsuur a sour look but picked up her fork and began to dig into her dried sandberry-topped salad in silence. Dawn topped up Unsuur's glass of tea while she was at it then came back to the table to start on her own dinner; Emile, as usual, remained totally silent, but gave off the barest indication that he liked the saucy sandfish thing -- it was just on the side of too spicy for Unsuur's tastes so he mostly ate his salad and had a bit more rice porridge for dessert than he normally would have eaten.

Nia and Emile couldn't stay too late - early train to catch and all - so after Nia had helped Dawn with the dishes they both left, and Dawn let out a loud and long-winded sigh as she closed the door behind them.

"Whew. I should probably head to bed soon too so I can see them off tomorrow but first-"

She hurried over toward the couch and slid a box out from under the coffee table there; Unsuur hadn't noticed it when he'd been sitting there earlier with Emile, and based on how Dawn huffed as she picked it up it must have been heavy. As she sat it on the table Unsuur came over and rubbed a hand across her back.

"Nia brought some stuff for me and some of it I think you'll enjoy too," she said, pulling a small knife from a pocket to cut away the twine tied around the box (it had two latches on the lid as well so he wasn't sure why the twine was also there). Once she'd yanked all the twine free she clicked the latches open and lifted the lid to reveal dozens of small canvas sacks with tightly tied tops. "With everything calming down I'll be able to get set up to start blowing glass again so she brought me a lot of colored glass to use."

She plucked one of the bags up and plopped it into his palm; it was heavy and cool to the touch, and it felt like a small bag of sand as he gently squeezed it. When he got the knot loosened he carefully opened it to reveal brilliantly red glass shards. "How much glass do you need to make something? These bags don't hold a lot."

"I'll be mostly using these to add patterns to bigger pieces, which I'll show you how that's done when I'm finally all set up for it. She brought me every color imaginable so I'll really be able to do...pretty much whatever comes to mind," Dawn giggled. She started taking the bags out of the box and stacking them in a sloppy pyramid-shaped pile next to the box, steadily revealing what looked like fist-sized spherical rocks under it. "This is what I wanted to show you though."

Unsuur made sure the bag of shards was tied securely before setting it down and accepting one of the rocks and was intrigued by how light it felt; there was a rubbery band about an inch wide wrapped around its middle and with him holding the rock still Dawn popped it loose. Instantly the rock came apart in two pieces in his hands, surprising him to the point he nearly dropped one half, then found himself staring into a glittering dome of bright purple amethyst.

"Oh wow, it's a geode," he said softly, holding the halves up and slowly turning them back and forth in his hands so the craggy gemstones inside caught more of the kitchen light behind them and sparkled. "It takes thousands of years to make a geode. They're supposed to be more common in deserts but I've never actually found one myself. You can tell a rock might be a geode if it feels way too light compared to other rocks of the same material and size." Looking down into the box he counted five more sitting in there. "How did she get so many?"

"No idea," Dawn said, smiling at him as she picked up another. Inside that one was agate and it was a bit more compact than the amethyst one he was holding with only a thumb-sized hollow in it. "She said they were a late - or early, depending on how I wanted to read a calendar - birthday present and she didn't want to risk them getting lost in the mail."

With a permitting nod from Dawn he put the amethyst geode down and picked up another. "This one feels heavy." Tugging the halves apart he revealed a solid core of opal without any hint of a hollowed spot. "This is a thunder egg. Not technically a geode but since they're shaped like one and can be found in the same areas they get lumped in with them."

"I never knew there was a difference. They're really neat, aren't they? I've 'worked' with geodes before in that I leave them as is and just attach a base for display purposes but I've never had this many at a time," she said, setting the agate one down and opening the next to reveal lots of white quartz. "That's what I plan to do with these, though I'm thinking I'll build a shelf just for that." The rest of the geodes were also quartz, mostly white though one of them was full of almost clear crystals; Dawn moved the box aside and carefully arranged the halves in a line on the table. "Would you also like a shelf?"

"I do need more storage space for my rocks but you don't have to take on more work for that. I'm not in any hurry and it can be kind of fun to rearrange what I have on display every few weeks or so."

She laughed and picked up an amethyst half and put it back into his hands. "Sorry, I meant for these, silly."

"...but they aren't mine," he replied, glancing between the geode and her. "I don't need a shelf for something I don't own."

"You will if I give you some."

"Oh. You don't have to do that either."

"Too bad, I am," she giggled. "You can keep some halves and I'll keep the others, and we both have something pretty to look at later."

The amethyst glinted in his hand; he ran a thumb around the smooth cut edge and smiled. "All right. Though, you really don't have to."

Dawn gave him a quick kiss on the temple and started to pile the bags of glass shards back into the box at her feet. "I know, but I want to, so I am. So there. I'll just need to know what wall you want the shelves on."

"Ok. I'll decide on that after I've had some time to picture how I want it to look." He carefully sat the geode half down next to its pair and sat down on the couch, waiting for Dawn to finish with the glass before pulling her into his lap. "Did you at least enjoy their visit?"

"Mostly. Emile apologized for how things ended and while I wouldn't call us friends, exactly, he cleared his conscience and I don't have to worry about any trouble coming from him."

"He didn't talk much... He wasn't mad at me or anything, was he?"

She shook her head, settling into his lap and leaning her head back to rest it on his shoulder. "No, he's not the jealous type. He screwed up, he owned up to it and apologized, even if it was a bit late, so we're done and over with, and if he plans to come back to Sandrock to visit Heidi I'm fine with that."

To visit Heidi? "Why Heidi, specifically? Some architect thing?"

"Oh boy, no, it's more-" Dawn huffed, pressing her fingers to her temples and beginning to massage them. "Ok, so, I want to preface this with the fact I DID let Nia have it when she admitted to this, and gave Emile an earful too, but Emile was using Nia to get back in contact with me and Nia was using Emile as a doormat as some kind of punishment for how he treated me at the end."

As though how he felt about Nia couldn't get any more confusing. "...why? Why would they do that? It doesn't sound like fun for either of them."

"Yeah, you'd think that..." Dawn pinched the bridge of her nose, inhaling deeply. "Emile went to Highwind trying to get in contact with me, found Nia, thought he'd be slick by using her to find me. Nia caught on to what he was doing but was content to let him buy her dinners and do nice things for her as a sort of revenge in my name. Both of them are idiots and will be breaking up once they're both home."

"And...how does Heidi fit into that? Does Emile like Heidi?"

"Seems like it but it was Pablo who pulled me aside and asked about it. No damn clue when he noticed anything and I have no way to confirm it or anything but since he IS Heidi's close friend I guess if anyone would see something developing it'd be him. That and he's the town gossip. You can't fart without him taking notice."

He settled his arms around her waist, leaning his head against hers. "I didn't want to be rude but, I don't see how someone like Nia ended up being your best friend. Not based on how she acted and what you've just told me."

She laughed quietly and found his hand to tangle their fingers together. "To be honest... From her letters I could kind of tell she was changing, growing in a direction I wasn't entirely approving of. She's a warm and caring person, and was that way when we grew up together, but it seems like she's veered more into...'Nia knows best, because she cares.' I knew we were drifting some while I was off in Atara but I didn't notice it was THAT much since we were just writing letters. Having her around in person again was... It wasn't what it used to be? She definitely wasn't like this when we were together in Highwind."

Unsuur nodded - that made sense. People matured and changed as time went on so just because they'd been best friends before didn't mean they were best friends now.

"Emile didn't say something to you, did he? I saw you looked a little out of sorts earlier."

"Uh. Kind of." Her question drew him away from pondering about the fate of past friendships, and back to how Emile had warned him -- he wondered what Emile had done to Dawn to cause the break up. "He told me not to screw things up with you because regret is hard to get over."

Dawn rolled her eyes and gently pushed his hands away so she could stand up. "He always had his moments of the dramatic."

"What did he do? If you want to talk about it, that is. You don't have to."

"He turned into my mother, is what he did," Dawn replied, tone flat. "I do not want to be someone's trophy or pet wife. Wanting to be successful and take care of your partner is a noble goal but he wanted me to stay home and pop out kids while he was the sole provider - I warned him several times that's not what I wanted but he kept falling back into that line of thought until it turned into a big fight and things ended." She took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, and glanced back to him. "I want to support and be supported in turn - a partner. If I ever get injured and disabled or too sick to work that's one thing, but expecting me to sit at home doing nothing with my life except raise kids is another."

Unsuur let that sink in for a few breaths, then stood up with a nod. "That seems like a really simple thing to not screw up, so I think I'll be ok."

Dawn started laughing, then shook her head. "I wasn't expecting you to do something like that." She went quiet, studying him for a moment. "What do YOU want out of a relationship?"

"I think I've already got it. I didn't ever see myself getting this far - I left my home village without a plan, after all. I do think..." He paused to make sure he was going to get the words in the right order. "...I do think that you're someone I can be with for a long time. Just standing by you. I've felt this way for awhile now. So long as I have you, I know I can become deputy, and keep protecting Sandrock, and have a good life here. No matter how many bridges or water towers get blown up. Which I guess that's on me to stop that from happening again but the sentiment still stands."

Slowly Dawn first pressed her palms flat against his chest then slid them up to lace her fingers together behind his neck and pull him down into a kiss. When she pulled away she smiled at him. "It might have been hell getting here, and it's probably not going to be an easy road going forward, but I'm glad I decided on Sandrock."

"Me too. Really glad." Unsuur smiled down at her for a second or two, then bent to sweep her up into his arms. "Time for bed. Or time to get ready for it - I won't make you go to bed without using the bathroom or getting to put pajamas on or something."

With a small chuckle she put her arms around his neck and let him carry her toward the bedroom. Unsuur put her feet back on the floor just in front of her dresser and unzipped his jacket as she went to retrieve the aforementioned pajamas, and was stripped down to his boxers and undershirt when she came back from the bathroom fully changed and with her hair let down.

He headed passed her for his turn in the bathroom and from behind him heard "you know, Pablo also tried convincing me to let him cut my hair."

Pausing in the doorway he glanced back to her. "Why? Well. I guess because he's a barber he has an interest in attracting business. But, why? I like your hair long."

"Me too, though I guess I could use a trim. My ends are getting a bit frazzled." She pinched some hair between her fingers, flicking the fingers of her other hand through the fringe-like gathering. "The idea IS tempting though. Cutting my hair was also something mom wouldn't let me do -- as in an actual cut and style, not getting a trim or whatever. Maybe it wouldn't hurt to at least hear him out on what he wants to do with it."

Unsuur finished up in the bathroom quickly and crawled into bed beside her, gently moving her hair aside so he wasn't laying on it, then clicked the lamp beside the bed off. "I know you'll look good with whatever you decide."

"That's the hope but at least it's just hair -- if I don't like the cut I can just wear a hat while it grows back."

She snuggled in against him and it didn't take long for her to fall asleep. Unsuur was just about to drift off when he remembered how Nia had wanted to make sure he was good enough for Dawn; she hadn't tried to corner him again so whether she approved or not was still a mystery, and also still none of her business. Dawn was the only person whose opinion on that mattered, and since he was the one laying here with her he was relatively certain he knew the answer anyway.

[postwarlevi]

(Not) Happy Birthday

Content: 1.3k words of you being sick on your birthday and Levi taking care of you.

a/n- Totally not self indulgent or anything. Wrote this in between naps. Barely proofread. Hope you enjoy!

"Achoo!" You reach for a tissue and lean back with a groan.

"What's that I hear?" Levi pokes his head around from where he is in the bathroom connecting to your master bedroom.

All you can do is blow your nose.

"You're…sick?" He comes closer to where you lie in bed, but not too close.

You go to speak but your phlegmy throat makes you cough instead and has you sitting up.

"Oh no." Levi frowns.

Today? Of all days?

You look up at him sadly. Last night you complained you were a little chilly so Levi made you put socks on and held you and you didn't think much of it.

"I'm sorry." You croak out, reaching for another tissue when a sneeze catching you again.

"What are you sorry for?" Levi asks, not really looking for an answer.

He'd been up first, getting ready to take you out for a nice day on your birthday, but that would all have to be put on hold.

You let out a tiny whine and fall back onto the bed.

Well, at least you took the day off in advance, so you wouldn't have to bother calling in sick to work. Tomorrow however…is tomorrow.

"What can I get you?" Levi steps closer and leans down so you don't have to speak loudly.

You shake your head and fling your hands all over, telling him to get away, earning a chuckle.

"Angel, if you're sick, I will be soon too, so we have to get you better so you can take care of me." He smirks, joking. "But you my immune system, I'll probably be fine."

He repeats his ask of what do you need.

"Some…ginger ale." You ask quietly.

That's how it starts, then you would like orange juice, and medicine for aches and pains that have started, and another blanket because it's cold, and would he please run to the store to get some of that yummy squash soup to go down your throat, and maybe some cough drops, and now your trash can is full of tissues!

You don't mean to cause trouble, you don't want to feel this awful.

Levi never has a complaint though, this was to be your day anyway. Truthfully, as far as he's concerned, it's always your day, but this is the one you would let him really indulge you. Well, now it would turn into a few days, because once he got you better you were getting the day he had planned for you originally.

It's not yet dinner time and you finally managed to get some sleep, and Levi cleans up around you and in the kitchen to gear up for the next round.

The way you always take care of him and his needs, he's glad to be able to be there for you. Not that he wants you to be sick, of course.

"Levi!" You call out to him with a cough after waking and he smiles ever so slightly to himself.

"Coming, love!" He has your soup on a tray and more ginger ale and medication since the last batch should be wearing off soon.

He pauses at the bedroom door and takes in your poor appearance, currently straining just to sit upright. Your hair is disheveled and knotted and your clothes are wrinkled from tossing and turning and not being able to get comfortable.

"My poor baby." He coddles as he brings your tray. Getting closer, it's visible your cute nose is getting red from blowing and your eyes are watery and your lips chapped because you can't breathe properly with your mouth closed.

"Thank you." You say in a pitiful way that almost breaks his heart. He can't keep you from getting sick but he will nurse you through it. This wasn't the day he planned, but at least he's spending it with you.

He turns the tv on to an old movie channel for you and goes to wash up and get some dinner of his own. He's kind of forgotten to eat up until now.

When he goes back in to get your tray he almost laughs, surprised you haven't knocked everything over as you are clearing falling asleep again.

He takes up the things and cleans once more and heads back into the contamination room.

"Love, you okay?" He goes to feel your forehead and you moan at the contact and try to pull away, still worried he will get sick, as if he hasn't been in and out all day.

"I think your fever is down. You feel sticky." You barely nod but he catches it and pulls the blankets away to find you are really sweating.

"Oh, you should've said something." He feels terrible and goes to put his arms around you to help you up.

"Levi, no." Your words can't fight off much of anything.

"Stop it." He insists.

Somehow he gets you into new sleepwear and sits you on the closed toilet seat and goes to pull the bedding off and replace it with fresh, throwing the old into the hamper and worrying about it another day.

"Come on. Up." He makes grabby hands and you get into his grip and are led right back to bed.

"Are you going to sleep on the couch?" You mumble as he gets you settled again. The little bit your eyes have opened you see it's getting later.

"No?" He raises an eyebrow at you.

"You want me to sleep on the couch?" You ask meekly. You would.

Levi chuckles now. "What? No. I'm staying right here with you."

"But-" He shushes your protests about not wanting to get him sick.

Levi goes to change back into sleepwear and falls onto his side of the bed, feeling a bit rundown himself after caring for another person all day.

"Come here." He says and doesn't waste any time pulling you closer.

And you let him. He feels so nice you can't argue, all you can do is snuggle in even more. Your nose finally stopped running and your cough is less now, but Levi is the best medicine of all.

"Happy birthday, my love. We'll celebrate properly soon." He promises and kisses your forehead which is thankfully not as wet as before.

Levi gets you through the night and the next two days, of which in your weary state you still had to explain to your boss why you needed off. Levi almost took the phone away and ripped him a new one for putting you through unneeded stress.

Now you are feeling much better and it's your official day off so you don't worry anymore, and wake up ready to go out and see what Levi had in store for you a few days prior.

You hop out of bed first and hit the bathroom, humming to yourself, and then you hear it. A sneeze.

You roll your eyes slightly to no one in particular. Well, you should've seen this coming.

"What's that I hear?" You ask, peaking around the corner to catch Levi going for the tissues on your nightstand.

"I'm sorry." He says in a nasal voice as he blows his nose. Yes, his wonderful immune system just told him a thing or two.

"What are you sorry for?" You sigh and shrug. It would have to wait a few days more. "My poor baby." You move towards the bed and he holds a hand up to get you to stay away.

"Levi, that won't work." You'll take care of him, whether he likes it or not.

But he does like it. Because as whiny as you can get, he's about to be so much worse.

That's okay though, because doing things for him is your favorite thing. Not that you want him to be sick, of course.

[funkymbtifiction]

/post/681425952448921600/hey-some-days-ago-ive-sent-you-a-admittedly can you give an example of 6w5 planning and 6w7 planning? and how do 5s plan in general?

I am not completely sure, because I haven't had a chance to talk to many 5s yet about how much their conscious awareness revolves around planning for their futures or puzzling over how to handle a future event -- and I think it will change dependent on the functions in play. An INTP 5 doesn't think the same way an ISTJ 5 does, in terms of deliberate strategizing.

I suspect dependent on the 5, the planning will revolve around sp, sx, or soc, in terms of figuring out how to maintain independence and minimize others' dependencies on them, while still ensuring their social instinct needs are met. So by extension, the 6w5 is considering what outcomes might await them down the road, and figuring out how to meet those challenges ahead of time, through preemptive planning and creating solutions that also minimize their need to depend on others. You see this in small ways by how some 6w5s pack everything they "might" need in an emergency down the road, or go into a situation having thought about everything that could happen and already decided what to do about it.

6w7s are less fearful in the sense of expecting disasters around every turn, and less likely to follow through on creating independent strategies, but still think, and plan, and strategize, and figure out out to avoid dependencies -- but not because others are a "drain" on them (a 5 reason) but because they don't want to get trapped into any situation that bores them (a 7 reason). I can tell you that as a 6w7, my need to think ahead and plan unfolds in minor ways and in larger ways -- the minor, daily ways include me liking to know what I am supposed to do tomorrow, so I can figure out my day around it. I like freedom of flexibility as an ENFP, but my 6 likes structure -- so I like to go to bed each night knowing what I want to accomplish the next day. If I know I am going somewhere, I want to decide on my route ahead of time, and imagine myself doing things in advance, so I can not think about figuring out what to do or where to go, while I am doing it -- I like to get it structured in my mind ahead of time.

On a larger scale, I like to plan a few months down the road, in a way that will bring me enjoyment -- to fulfill my 7 wing's need and desire to have things to look forward to. It can be a larger thing like a trip or a reward for finishing a huge project, or a smaller thing like a movie release or dinner out with friends. But I want to have a few things on my schedule to think about and plan for, to keep me motivated. I also like to think about what projects I might want to take on in the future, and how to ensure that I have enough free time to do that. I don't like never-ending commitments; I want closure and to move on.

(I also dip in and out of super long range planning -- like when I retire, what I want to do or where I might move to, or how to combat a problem I know will be inevitable, but as an ENFP, it's never set in stone and always open to flexibility and/or revision later on.)

7s flat out keep moving, keep planning, and immediately jump on whatever attracts them, always wanting to have things to look forward to and cramming their schedule with people, places, and activities so there's not so much down time that they are left alone with their thoughts.

[jovnie]

The king's arrogance | Namjoon

Summary

The King had knowledge on everything and one in his castle, however he knew nothing of the kingdom he ruled before him. That was till one day he left and found you a street merchant.

Words 5k

Namjoon king au! Reader civilian!

Warnings: fluff, cocky joon, medium amount of smut, mentions of parent death, creampie, oral ( female ), big-dick Joon, nonconsensual touches, creampie, rough sex, lot of plot. Very quick relationship.

I beg that you listen to The mary go round from the moving castle [ slowed ] when reading. I think you'll enjoy it even more with it in the background.

Namjoon sat on the throne, laid back and legs spread apart as a servant read him his to-do list for today.

"Well sir, today starts the month planning of the ball. We have a few colors I'm sure you'll enjoy, however, I'm sorry to inform you that the family members that shouldn't be named threatened third way onto the guest list" the man spoke in fear, nodding and sighing namjoon dismissed the servant with talks of the guest later.

"Mrs. Pot is the tea almost ready?" He asked kindly as the elder Korean lady nodded with a bright smile. Smiling softly, the older lady pinched his cheeks softly.

"I still remember when you were a baby and your late parents running you from tea session to tea session. Oh, how I'm sure you miss them as much as I " her smile faded, as she poured the tea on the table in front of him.

"I do, it's been 18 years now. Since I was 10 I believe, so right 18 years. I'm sure they would've loved to taste this freshly poured tea once again" he reassured, rubbing her back and once done taking a sip with her.

"I'll make sure to clean the alter table later and pour some tea with them" she smiled delicately, as took a drink of her tea.

That was right this year would make it the 18th anniversary of his parent's passing ever since the flood. It was heartbreaking, as his eyes dimmed in sadness the older lady pinched his cheek as he smiled with a tear down his cheek.

"Now don't go soft on me Namjoon, you have to stay strong for those who can't and I know it all hurts. But they'll be watching you like garden spirits. I know your mother is very proud and your father knowing how much a man and a king you have become. Now I have to go, it's time for me to go tend the gardens. Goodbye joonie" she waved, after collecting the empty teacups snd pots. Watching her wheel everything away, namjoon felt comforted by her words and took a deep breath before getting up and moving on with his day.

He spent the day testing and looking at fabrics, color swatches, and paper samples. The ball, gala, or celebration was very important for the kingdom. They only three one when it was important and this time it was a celebration of life once lived aka his parent's death date. September 4th. This day celebrated life and death, just like fall. He loved the metaphor behind it and hated how true love ended so quickly in his eyes. However he too wishes to be able to die with the one he loved dearly by his side, he hated how romantic it sounded and how bad he wanted it. Love wasn't an easy game and not once could he find someone who commented with him in a deep, if not spiritual way.

Itching the back of his head, he walked on and into his room. He had another busy schedule ahead of him. Sometimes he just wished he could live amongst the people for a day. That's what he'll do. Looking around for his leather satchel, he put together what he called a commoners bag. A bag that contained money, an id, and a diary. Looking around for clothes that seemed passable for a commoner and changed into them. From there he grabbed his stuff and snuck his way out of the Castle through the bag. He made sure Mrs. Pot knew where he was just in case this would get him in trouble. After all, the family would show up unexpectedly most of the time and he had people watch his every move as well.

Making sure his hat covered all of his hair, he walked into the street lights and found a carriage ride who was going home or into the city. He paid the guy and let him into the buggy and the city.

Namjoon did this for a weak till he knew the ropes of running out of the kingdom St night, he tried his best to avoid getting caught with the knight guards and the pesticide workers who showed nd yelled deals in his face. He also learned patience along with that, another valuable lesson needed as a king or so he was taught.

One night he went into a low-lit bar with entertainers. Majory we're female and drove the men in the room wild. He's had his fee share of women, but not when it came to this level. He found it charming and often sent gifts to them for their hard work. From the kingdom's guards and not him personally. Still, he ordered rice wine snd some jerky, before leaving. leaving a lady much shorter than him, bumped into his shoulder.

"Guards there's the thrift!" A younger woman pointed, as the men ran after her. Wanting to know what was up, he walked up to the merchant and simply asked. You explained that the woman was a theft, they would steal all her family food at night to make their profit.

"I'm sure you can be more um what are these?" He asked, picking up the food he's never seen before.

"Fruit?" You questioned grabbing the lemon out of his hand. "Well shops closed sir, come back tomorrow and you can buy our lovely fruit," you said kindly, walking up the stairs in this wooden place. Following you, namjoon closed the door behind and also walked up. Namjoon didn't know much manners, but he had the basics for a king. However, to a common person like you, he was a pest, rude, etc.

"Um, what are you doing?" you asked folding sheets for your bed up.

"It's nighttime aren't you gonna ask me to stay and wait till morning?" He asked raising an eyebrow.

"Well, I supposed. By the way, there's a futon bed over there. I'll make dinner soon then!" you welcomed, as namjoon looked ok confusion at what the blanket on the floor was trying to imitate. Taking off his shoes, he placed his bag on the 'futon' and hung his jacket and hat on the hanger by the door.

Arriving back you blushed hard, as a beautiful looking man was now clear in your view. Luckily for namjoon, you had no money to spend on papers like everyone else or let alone money to go to the balls either. Therefore you had no clue that this man was a noble, let alone the king. If you did you would've just died at how you just treated him.

"It's beef and seaweed soup, with carrots and onions" you listed off as you placed the bowl on the floor diner table. Placing a spoon and a napkin on the side, you forgot the drink. Walking away you grabbed him a cup and poured lemonade in, before walking back. On your arrival, you saw him going to town on the meal. He slurped and moaned as he complimented your cooking. Chuckling, you sat the glass of lemonade down and took the napkin to wipe his chin and cheek. Placing it down, you watched him continue and enjoy it. Although there was only enough for his, you still had something to eat. You simply had bread and butter with some lemonade as well.

It took him a bit to notice you didn't have a bowl which made him feel a bit guilty but instead handed her 30 ₩ which was a lot during that time. Not wanting to take it, he "accidentally " dropped it down your bra and smiled.

"Well it's late, we should sleep and then go out to shop for food and new clothes" the man spoke.

"I'm sorry but I don't know you, how do I not know you're not trying to kidnap me or steal or worse kill me!" You mentioned as the older man stripped off his shirt.

"You don't have to, just know ill help you and accept the gift" he spoke, pitting his clothes beside him.

"Excuse you, you don't come in someone's house and act like this. Do you even have manners?" You added in frustration.

"I paid you, it wasn't a gift. It was a payment and I can tell you've never gotten one" he snickered, laying on the futon snd taking your cover. Annoyed at the man, you crossed your arm as he mouth "you have a problem?"

"Yes, I do! What's your name to begin with?" You asked, laughing it off he closed his eyes.

"Surprised you don't know and it'll stay like that for a bit darling" he whispered, moving over he patted next to him. "Sleep with me"

"No! I don't sleep with strangers like that, unlike you I have honor " you mentioned, getting up to go change into something appropriate for bed. Once done, you came back and he was still in the same position as before.

"I think I demanded that. besides I can ruin this little shop of yours if you don't. " he threatened, looking at his nails snd then at her. Well dressed and groomed man, you could visibly see the power he likely had. This was your mother's business and you promised her you would take care of it. Saddened you laid down next to him and whispered "please don't, this is all I have left."

"So we're on the same page I believe, no?" He asked, wrapping his arms around her waist.

"Yes," he replied. She felt uncomfortable and annoyed at the fact she had to do this for a business. Let alone a man, then again the men weren't always so kind to the women here, most always. She sighed and just accepted it, as he covered the two up.

"Call me Joon, " be whispered in your ear. Nodding, his hands traveled up and down your wist. Coughing, he halted then stopped after finding a comfy place to lay his hand.

"Do you do this with every woman?" You asked, curious.

"Well the last time I had a woman in my arms, she tried to advance me in marriage" he mentioned, putting his neck in-between your shoulder and neck.

"I do however have experience If that's what your aim is?" He said softly.

"Not really, I mean if a stranger just threatened your job and made you do this. Along with inappropriate touching for people who just met, I'd believe you'd be the class below poverty. Not a king not noble" you told, unexpectedly holding his arm between your breast.

Noticing, namjoon's cheeks flushed red. Luckily the lantern. Was behind him and not in front, so she couldn't see. "Toché" he replied.

"However I can see you've had a bad experience with men hmm?" He asked, softly brushing his nose on her neck.

"So you're not around here I see, well yes every guy here is just shit. Rude snd ignorant as you" you huffed, as raised an eyebrow.

"I'll give you that, feminist huh. Cute, haven't met one till you" he smiled, intrigued. "It seems like I've violated it huh, touching you snd acting sloppy" he added, moving your hair out your face.

"Glad you noticed, now turn the candle out!" you demanded, closing your eyes. Doing just that, he then wrapped his leg around you snd kissed your cheek.

"Good night"

Morning came, as the two of you laid there comfortable in each other's embrace. With him being the first to wake up, he tapped your shoulder and you woke up soonly after him. Yawing and stretching, you made sure your hand hit him on purpose.

"Sorry," you said coy, as he rolled his eyes up and shrugged it off.

"So when's breakfast?" He asked, getting up as you realized he had just worn cotton briefs. One's that we're expensive and that added more mystery to him. Why was someone who could've been from a noble family be here and threatened for his stay? Then the thought of maybe it's all stolen.

"The time?" He asked waving his hands over your face as you realized you had zoned out.

"Sorry, we have to go get food and we can buy food at the square." You mentioned.

"Where's the bathroom?" He asked, you pointed to the medium-sized room across from him. The place was small and combined, so you could see the kitchen from the bed area and a mini living room. Nodding off he grabbed his clothes snd began using the pump to pump water into the bath.

"Don't use all the water!" You yelled.

"I can and make you join me" he yelled back, smirking.

"No ill make you get more water from the lake behind here" you replied, itching your hair.

"Don't you have to get more water anyways, less work" he mentioned, leaving the door open and sitting in the tub? This man was quite weird when it came to flirting, it somewhat seemed motherly and innocent. However on the other hand, overly sexual and mysterious.

"Fine" you huffed, striping and walking towards the tub. That's when that harsh look he had softened and turned into a stare. There you were in front of him, naked snd he took every moment to vies your body. He saw how thick your hair was and how curvy your body was. He liked that, he paid attention to how big your breast was and the fact it looked like you haven't trimmed in a week. Which meant you looked old enough for him to do special things with.

"How old are you?" he questioned.

"I love how you did all of this without asking' she rolled her eyes, trying to muster a pony 0tail with the length and thickness of her hair.

"Turning 20 next month!" she replied excitedly.

"28 next month as well" he replied, breathing out the air he had subconsciously kept in. Getting in, she sat in front of him, covering her chest with her knees.

"I can still see you!" he laughed, grabbing the soap from the tray. Washing his body first, he took his hands and spread her legs open and washed below and around her arms and chest.

"Open," he said, waiting. Opening your arms you rolled your eyes and he splashed you with water. "Manners young lady " he mentioned. Knowing he's right, you sighed. Your father once told you the same when he was alive and because of that "Joon" reminded you of your father a bit. He acted mature and young simultaneously.

Washing your arms and your thighs, you washed off the soap on his neck and took the plug out to drain the dirty water. Placing the soap down, he spread his legs open and you accidentally saw something you shouldn't have. Frightened and embraced, you blushed. Taking his hand and pushing your gaze to meet his. He smiled softly.

"It's fine, just don't get too threatened by it. I'm aware of the size," he mentioned, looking you in your eyes. Nodding, you this time pumped the water until it was all out. Cleaning the both of you, you couldn't help but feel shy snd flustered. He felt the same, only he knew how to hide it. But not everything he knew or wanted to hide.

He looked in your eyes, noticing a soft dismal look on you to which he replied with "tell me are you okay?" Thankful for the concern, you told him about your parents passing and the shop's importance to you was. He understood automatically and exchanged his parent's passing in less detail. He didn't think he'd meet with someone with such a familiar background as his, even if they were below Noble.

He took her hand and placed it on her chest. "They're here, I'm sure your mother would be proud of how you came out to be. So leave it at that" he smiles wildly, with his eyes closing shut a bit as he did. You were glad to hear that and he never thought that Mrs.pot's comfort would come in handy, but he's glad to say and share a similar message.

"Speaking of do you have an altar?" He asked gently, unplugging the water and helping you stand up. Nodding you pointed out the door to a small corner. He thanked you and grabbed both of you a towel. Getting dried and dressed you did your hair as he went over to pay the slightest respects. Smiling at how kind the gesture was, you walked over to the rack and tripped over your foot trying to hand him his stuff. You saw a journal fall out and your eyes met his.

"You're a journalist?" You questioned, fixing your dress and hair before getting up and handing his stuff.

"Yeah, not from here tho," he lied, dusting dirt from your shoulder. Nodding you both made your way down the stairs, as he took your hand. Noticing it, you smiled. You wondered why he was being nice to you all of the sudden, however, that all changed when a guard walked past by and he brought you to a kiss. Confused and his eyes waiting for them to go, you kissed back hesitantly. Letting go, you looked at him worried he shrugged it off and you walked him to the square.

Hand in Hand, you brought namjoon to the bakery. Looking around, he pointed out the most expensive bread on hand and paid. Thanking him, he leads your hand to the vendors outside. Lucky for you, he knew about gardening and what was good. He helped and taught you the basics snd you learned you've been scammed for years. Thanking him, you took him to a cart of flowers and smelled the fresh roses, looking up at him. He paid for the golden yellow rose bouquet. Now it was for his favorite part of the day, clothes shopping. But beforehand, he pulled you into a cafe.

"Two bags of your finest coffee," namjoon ordered, by now you shouldn't have been shocked at how much he could spend. But seeing him use more money than you've sent your entire life was a sight to see snd each time you were thankful. You had enough food and supplies to last week if not a month. Holding you close by him, you realized you warmed up to him and small gestures like that felt comforting to you. He noticed and did it more often.

Soon it was night and there was only, one dress store open. In there was a beige dress that sparkled in the shop's lights. Running to the window to look, you smiled. Feeling a hand on your back, he took a step in and pulled your hand in with him.

"Welcome to Gezels tailor and shop" the owner greeted. He was an older man with gray hair a fragile smile.

"Well take that dress in the window snd tailor it to her size. His much is it?" Namjoon asked, pulling his wallet for the last time today.

"₩ 10,000" the man spoke, paying upfront the older man invited you to the back room and told namjoon to stay upfront. Nodding, you walked ahead and namjoon sat in the chair. He had a diary to write about today's and yesterday's adventures. He started up about the bathtub time you shared snd imagined your body once again. If only he knew his to draw, he'd paint a pretty picture in the book. Soon after finishing his entry, you walked out with a note.

Note: the dress will be ready for you miss before dusk, come back tomorrow with your lover -Gezel tailor and shop

You handed it to namjoon and he read it, as the two walked out. Suddenly loud commotions of horses snd guards ran through the city with lights.

"The king's missing!" The horseman yelled into the square. Namjoon in a panic rushed you two into the forest nearby. Confused, but following him. You wondered if he had something to do with it, besides this wasn't the first time he ran away from the guards today.

"They can't find me or ill be in trouble, act like a lover, please. I'll pay you in gold when I can" he begged on his knees with his hat on his chest.

"Don't pay me, think of it as a token of my gratitude. I'll help, but you have to explain everything when we get back," you murmured, taking his hands and helping him out the dirt. Making you drop the food and his bag.

Suddenly, he gripped your body and jumped both of you in a lake as he heard the sounds of horses clamping. A sound you didn't even hear. Holding your head under the water, he waited for the light of the torch to leave the lake area before swimming the two of you up.

Taking deep breaths of air, the two of you swam to the doc snd he helped you up first before himself. Luckily, the food wasn't damaged. Frustrated, you grabbed the food and his bag as you walked home. Walking in, you kept the lights off snd went to the second floor.

Stripping you of your clothes snd placing the bags down, you watched him do the same. Forgetting you had to pump the water, he suggested he'd go do it and you nodded giving him directions snd within 30minutes he was done. Striping once again, he hugged your body to his chest. You soon felt tears on your neck and small crys, you rubbed his back snd just stood there till he let go.

"What's wrong?'" You asked concerned.

"I could've killed you!" he cried, remembering the look his mother gave him before dying in his arm. His father did the same thing to his mother, only on a ship in the middle of the sea. Hugging him, you rubbed his back and placed a kiss on his lips. Holding you to his chest, kissed you back, and laid back so your bare body laid on his.

"Let's wait to shower" he suggested, kissing your neck. Nodding your head no, he flipped you over on your stomach softly and trapped your legs with his. "Please?' He asked, leaning down on your level on the floor snd holding your chest in his hand. Agreeing, knowing what's about to happen you loosened up snd he turned you on your back.

His hands ran around your chest and thighs, leaning down to kiss your naked body as a slight moan came out. From there, he moved his lips to your mouth and softly moved yours to his hair. Taking note, you ran his fingers through his dark brown ones as the two of you danced with each other's tongue. Namjoon removed his lips snd traveled down south, gripping his hair in pleasure you moaned grinding your hips. Meanwhile, he took in a natural aroma, one he found arousing. Moving his tongue around the bud, he softly kissed your thighs leaving bruises.

Looking at your head tilting back snd eyes closed with heavy to light breathing. He took his pointer finger snd rubed softly in circles, moving his body to tower you with one arm. Noticing the shift of best around your neck, you felt his warm breath move down your neck and by your ear.

"Let me tell you something darling, I'm not who I say I am" he kissed around your neck, papering it in kisses. Hearing you moan, made him aroused by the minute. However he knew it was time to go back to the castle, only he wasn't going empty-handed. As your hands rubbed his back, he whispered "I'm Namjoon, they're looking for me, darling. Tonight the last night I can spend here so let's make it count" in a raspy tone.

In shock, he gave you a minute to calm down as he could hear your heart. "I'm sorry" he apologized.

"No need, but for whatever this may be for you. Just know I haven't done anything like this with anyone," you admitted. Humming he moved to the other ear and whispered "I like that, just know it will hurt after a few minutes snd then feel better or the pain could feel good!" he warned. Taking his warning, he gently rubed you as got on his knees and opened your legs wide. Watching as he did, you noticed he was fully erected at this point and ready. You closed your eyes snd tensed your muscles as he began to simply grind his tip into you.

He was right there was pain, which caused you to bleed a bit. However, it was enjoyable without a doubt. Soon he was able to put 6/9 inches in as he trusted slowly. Moaning under him, he moved his in circles biting his lower lip as looked at your fuller lips and leaned over and wrapped your legs around his waist. After a few moments of waiting for you to adjust, you thought about today snd how it was so obvious he was the king snd yet it flee by.

As you moaned loud, his thrusts began to speed up snd the two of you could hear the sounds of his hips banging into yours snd your ass as he went faster.

"Ah, baby!" He grunted, grinding into you deeply as your hands rubed into his hair. Morning louder, his lips conceded back to yours as you held on snd then to your neck where you heard his heavy breathing. Your body was tightening around him, as he went in deeper now putting himself in. Not to mention you began to pool around him which gave him more speed in the end.

"Namjoon!" You moaned in his ear, holding his back tightly as your legs unwrapped snd opened wider for him. Cursing under his breath, he went harder as you began to arch your bag in pleasure. He held onto your back as your head went backs and the build of pleasure built up quickly.

you held onto his muscular shoulders while he moved you closer to him to go deeper. With that sending you over the edge, you screamed his name in pleasure as yours and his breathing began to match in heaviness. Shopping for a second, namjoon looked you in your eyes and thrust slowly as he was too close and it felt too good.

"In close, but I don't wanna cum yet" he grunted, thrusting deeply in and out.

"Then cum when you can't hold it!" You urged, outta breathe enjoying the depends. "I'm fine with children" you explained. Nodding, he continued and went harder this time.

His mouth roamed your chest, sucking and pulling on the bud as your back arched and mouth open in response. You this time, grinded back cgroundhim to jolt forward and start panting.

"Fuck don't do that unless you-" you interrupted doing it again. Pushing your legs back and open wide he started hammering into you as you began screaming in both pleasure and slight pain. You scratched his back and he immediately let go of your thighs snd pushed your hands back. As your body began to shake under him, he went faster as his chest heaved in breathing and yours became flushed with red. He started to let his enjoyment show more and tilted his head back with his eyes close as he went faster. He allowed the sounds of your whimpering snd moans to fulfill his urge as his balls smack your body hard causing a loud moan to come out from him.

Moving his hips to go at a slightly different angle than before, he noticed you started dripping more and more causing your heat to became more and more pleasurable on his end. He leaned down to your chest and held you as he began moaning in ecstasy as a thick load covered your walls in white.

Stoping and catching his breath, he mouthed something so simple but daring and that was simple.

"Don't leave me"

To which you replied softly. "I won't"

Soon the both of you gained the energy to get in the tub. There you two conversate on what it was like for him to be the king and all, what he planned on doing, and where he wanted to do next.

"Please come back to the castle with me tonight?" He begged, holding his hands with yours.

" I don't wanna be a drag" you looked down.

"You won't, I promise you'll enjoy your new life" he stated happily as ever.

"Namjoon don't you think it's too fast, we just met and all." You mentioned.

"Right, that is an undeniable truth. However, I know you felt the same way I did snd I know this isn't a fairy tale. But I truly feel like we could have a life" he spoke, holding your hands to his chest. Yes, that was true, you did believe in fate snd everything. But this was soon and so much.

"I'll go, but you have to let me have the ability to leave, " you said sadly, bring you to his chest he nodded and turned your body around in the tub.

From there you two did what was needed and packed a small bag of hygiene snd the coffee from earlier to go. You two had to walk back to the castle without being seen or heard at all. Which called for a few close times of being caught, from there he showed you a secrete gate entrance that led straight towards his room. From there, he tried his best to pick you up and take you to his room. there which Mrs. Pot sat praying

"I'm home and I brought a guest" he mentioned putting you down. As she recognized Mrs. Pot, she immediately went to hug her.

"It's been a while, my dear, I remember when you were both sized. I see you ran into the king, ah I knew he would've found you. I mean he's always had an eye on elegance and beauty" she mentioned embracing you tightly and pinching her cheek the same way she did with namjoon.

"I'll tell the guards your home" she looked at namjoon winking. Itching his head as he smiled, he turned to you and stripped naked again.

This time he leaned on the top of you again and you immediately kissed back. "It's a yes" you knew immediately as he took off your clothes once again that same night. Only this time, he focused on filling you up till he couldn't anymore.

"Fuck, this is amazing" he cursed, moving his hips harder as you who was behind sensitive began moaning his name louder and louder. Your legs opened wider and pools of arousal soaked the bed, making him lose control once more in you before pulling you close and moaning in your neck. Spilling once more, he simply uttered

"I love you"

"I love you too"

[sagemusesoutloud]

Anti-Romantic, Part 1

(credit to the original owner of the image)

Character | Jaehyun x reader Genre | nonidol!au, Mutual Pining, Slowburn, Fluff WordCount | 3.6 K Author'sNote | lmaoooo the fact that I intended this to be a oneshot type of thing oops. Wellllll, I tried. Most likely to be a two part series, but we'll see.

This is part of a series I intend to call "If Songs were Fics" and this particular one was loosely inspired by TXT's Anti-Romantic bc I'm obsessed. I hope you enjoy reading as much I enjoyed writing it!

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

I don't know who loves me

And I don't care, It's a waste anyways

A romantic feeling, Kinda scares me

“Any plans for you birthday next week?”

Jaehyun shakes his head at you, “no, not yet, don’t you have that date with that barista?”

“I’m not sure, he’s been acting weird over text lately. Might not be worth it,” you shrug your shoulders. “Besides, it’s your birthday! You only get one of those a year, we should plan something.”

You were on your way to the gym, a ritual you and Jaehyun had ever since you both found out you worked for the same company. You had been childhood friends, but ended up losing touch since you went to separate universities.

It was a nice surprise to see a friendly face on the first day of orientation and throughout the duration of your training for the next six weeks. Although you were both from different departments, you enjoyed taking your lunch breaks together and sharing small gossip about your old class-mates.

“ugh, don’t remind me,” he let’s out a long sigh, “every year, it seems like my family won’t stop pestering me about starting a family.”

“What’s so wrong about that?”

“Nothing, just not for me. Or at least not yet. I don’t think I’m the type to settle down,” he shrugs again as if it were no big deal.

You gasp, “how could you say that? I’ve seen your insta account. It’s got your cousin’s kids all over it!” You stop to take a good look at him as he holds the door of the gym open for you. “Back in school too, you used to tutor those elementary kids for volunteering hours. Even when you didn’t need them. You’ve always liked kids.”

“That’s different…”

“Right. Totally different things. Got it,” you roll your eyes. This wasn’t the first time he mentioned not wanting to settle down. At first, you had thought it was because he liked ‘keeping his options open’ like back in high-school. Or, not that you knew for sure, but if the rumors were true then it meant he slept his way around. Apparently, he never slept with someone twice and despite the cold shoulder the other party would get, all you had ever heard were praises. Not that you paid that much attention or anything.

You and Jaehyun had the same circle of friends, but despite that, he had never made any advances towards you. You’d be lying if that didn’t bother you at least once or twice. You just assumed that he didn’t want to make the friendship awkward or mess with the friend dynamics of your group. Which was why your crush on him in junior high ended as soon as you got to high-school.

You ended up going on dates with other people, but nothing that kept your interest. Nothing that compared to how you felt around him. Not that he seemed to think the same, so you tried your best to stay the good friend you always have been. You didn’t want to push something he clearly didn’t want; not that it didn’t hurt any less. Throughout the years it’s become bearable, at least. Almost like a painful habit.

You check in and head to the locker rooms to change. His nonchalance about the subject had always puzzled you. You’d seen first hand how all the female coworkers seemed to sway their hips as they walked by him, how some would pop a blouse button more than usual when around him, and you swore no one else was getting that much help throughout training more than him. He was handsome and a gentleman, that much was painfully obvious.

You meet him outside by the water fountain, “ready for warm-up?” he guides your way to the treadmills.

“When’s the last time you dated?”

You would have laughed if you weren’t so shocked to see him trip from the corner of your eye. “why the sudden curiosity?” He finally responds.

“Not sudden, I’d always wondered.” You defended. “You’re good looking and you’re very…I mean, you live on your own and have your own car. You have good relations with your family AND you’re good with kids. So, what is it?” You hadn’t realized how troubling you thought it all was. But now that you started digging you couldn’t stop.

“I just—” you pause, “it doesn’t make sense.”

You hear him chuckle, “you might wanna slow down before you pull something.” You look down and realize that your pace had gone from a relaxed jog to a borderline run during your rant. Maybe this wasn’t the best time to psychoanalyze your only friend in the city.

“Well, I just don’t know how to let people in. It’s just that.” He finally responds. “I love kids, but I don’t know or think I’d be a good partner.” He slows down before stopping, ending the conversation. He waves you off with an easy smile as you stay running.

Huh, maybe you pushed him too far. Your eyes can’t help but follow him around the gym.

Sweet and bitter chocolate, The taste at the end is always the same

Like the saddest movies, Only tears in my eyes

Your hands were sweaty the entire morning, anticipating your lunch time. It was his birthday today, and while you hadn’t made any concrete plans you ended up agreeing to go over to his place after work. Your gym bag was ready with snacks and comfy clothes to stay over. You remembered him saying he was excited to watch that new Marvel movie that had recently come out so you had bought it online to stream it at his place as a surprise. But what had you nervous was the small heart shaped box sitting in your purse. You didn’t know what possessed you to buy it but you had immediately thought of Jae when you passed by it at the mall. You remember vaguely mentioning that it was a special occasion to the sales lady (as in, his birthday), but she must have thought it was your significant other rather than friend because she changed the box to the red velvet shaped one while giving you a wink. In her defense, you could have protested but…why didn’t you?

You hear a knock on your door, “hey little miss sunshine.” Ah, Nakamoto, this couldn’t be good news. He was only sickly sweet to you when he needed a favor.

“What do you want?” you deadpan. He only laughs as he makes himself comfortable in your office. “Well, nothing in particular. Can’t stop by and see how you’re doing?” he feigns hurt.

“Right—the last time you ‘came by’ you left me working over-time through the weekend,” You sigh, “so what is it this time? Missed meeting? Late proposal?” To be fair, your supervisor WAS overworked sometimes. And since you were the only worker under him, it was normal for him to sometimes share some of the load with you.

He smiles at you, “nope. Just have a proposal for you. I know you’ve been working hard these past few months and I’ve been really impressed by your work ethic.” He stands and moves closer to your desk, “And I thought some sort of reward was in order, as well as celebration.” Ok, now you’re confused. You were ok with the reward part, it usually came in the form of a gift card to your favorite coffee shop, but celebration?

“Why would we celebrate? Did I miss something?”

“Not yet, but I did recommend you to the partner position with me. And I wanted to be the first to tell you that the boss approved it earlier today. So, what do ya say? Dinner on me?” he extends his hand out to you and wiggles his eyebrows playfully.

Oh.

Shit! You were hoping this would happen eventually, moving up from the entry-level position you had. But you had never thought it would be this fast. “Oh my gosh, are you serious?” You give him your hand and he shakes it in mock salute.

“Of course, some people will come by to move your computer to the office next to mine. You start Monday!” he winks, “So, wanna go to that new rooftop restaurant? This is a once in a life-time ticket, so you best say yes.”

But your dinner with Jae…He’ll understand, right? He has to. It’s not like he seemed that excited about it anyway. And you could always spend the day together tomorrow, too. It would be pretty rude to turn down Yuta after he pulled some strings for you…

You smile at him, “Thank you Mr. Nakamoto, I won’t let you down as a partner. Yeah, dinner sounds great. Wanna meet there?”

You sit down on the small table, now nervous for other reasons.

Jae sits opposite of you, a small smile on his face. “Hey you,” he greets.

“hey…” you start, “I hate to change plans so suddenly, but…” crap, you feel really shitty. But you really were between a rock and a hard place.

“everything ok?”

“yeah, no. I actually just got promoted,” you start.

“You did? That’s awesome! So fast, too. Wow—but shouldn’t you be more enthusiastic about it?” he chuckles.

“I am, just—my old supervisor wanted to go to dinner to celebrate. And I don’t think I could say no after helping me out like that.”

“I mean, did you want to skip it or?” Now he’s confused.

“Well, he wanted to go out tonight since I start Monday and today’s Friday…I don’t think I can come over tonight,” you explain.

Realization crosses his features before he gives a small smile. “Don’t worry about it, you’re fine. And he’s treating you! You don’t know when the next time he offers might be,” he continues, “we can celebrate another day anyway.”

“Are you sure?” now you feel like shit.

“Of course I’m sure.”

For the rest of the lunch, a thick silence settles before he excuses himself back to work.

Jaehyun knew this was coming. Nothing ever went his way; it’s why he kept everyone at a distance from his heart. But he was weak when it came to you. This game of push and pull was bound to keep happening, and it only brought him that all familiar foul taste in his mouth.

I know, that sweet love song, Those words of promise

When you turn around, It's just an unfamiliar someone

It was why he decided to go else-where for university, instead of joining you and some of your friends to the one closest to home. He chose to go across the globe—far, far away from the curse of you.

It had started on a windy day, back when you were 4 and new to the town he grew up in. Jaehyun didn’t want to leave his mother’s arms, he didn’t like the thought of being with strangers until later in the day even if his mom promised that she would be back. A little girl with jean overalls like his came up to him and his mom, “why are you crying?”

“I am not!” he sniffed. He didn’t need to make new friends like his mom was trying to tell him. All he needed was to go back home. You took out something from your pocket and showed it to him, “look, my mom said I could give one to my first friend. She said it was sharing. Want one?”

In her little palm, were two kiss chocolates. “You’re not my friend,” he grumbled, “I don’t know your name.” At that, you giggled, “I’m Y/N!” you took his hand and placed a chocolate there, “there, now we’re officially friends.”

“See, Jae? You can spend some time with Y/N and have fun. Before you know it, I’ll be back,” she promised.

“Yeah, Jae! Come play blocks with me, and then we can try the coloring.” You held his hand as you led him deeper into the classroom. Just like that, Jae began to feel a little warmth in his chest. He didn’t mind that his favorite thing to do was play tag outside or that he wasn’t really good at coloring inside lines yet. But that didn’t matter to him. As long as he had this one friend around, he was content.

Sorry I'm an anti-romantic, I want to run far away

My heart that already chases after you, Blazes up as a small flame

Looking back at it now, it was a little funny. All it took to let you in back then was a simple chocolate kiss and your little sticky hand in his leading the way. You were always larger than life to him, sometimes he forgot that you were just as human as him.

As you two continued to grow, nothing seemed to change your friendship. But he knew that the depth of his feelings wasn’t mutual. It was in the way that you brought a lot different people together and decided to call it your family. Another of your friends, Jungwoo, liked to joke that you collected introverts for fun. To Jaehyun, it was more likely that you just didn’t see the fun in leaving people out. You were charming and passionate. Traits he wished he had. Your empathetic nature and gentle disposition were all that Jaehyun needed, even if he wasn’t the only recipient.

Once you guys started to hit puberty, things started to feel rocky. Jaehyun couldn’t help but physically distance himself from you, his ears were always red-hot. You had always been pretty to Jaehyun, but you were starting to become really beautiful. And if the boy’s locker rooms’ talk were anything to go by, then other people were definitely starting to realize “what a great catch” you were.

It really pissed him off. Who were they to say things as if all you were was a piece of meat? It disgusted him. But what disgusted him more was the fact that sometimes, he couldn’t help but also feel the way your body felt in his when you hugged in greeting. He hated the way his body reacted to everything you did.

He first messed around with a senior girl back when he was a sophomore, Sooyoung. She was leaving and he couldn’t take it anymore. Your boyfriend was a piece of trash and he was tired of hearing the way he would share what Jae considered to be intimate moments that had no business being public. But you seemed so happy… that next game, Jae stole the ball from him and scored on his own. Even if it cost him a three hour lecture from the coach, he would do it again. Fuck being a team, that guy was an asshole.

What he hadn’t planned on was liking messing around. He would never admit it, but the reason he couldn’t commit was because he couldn’t get rid of that small grain of hope that glowed in his chest every time you stared at him longer than would be deemed normal. It wasn’t often, but he knew he wasn’t seeing things. So, he succumbed to the cycle of push-and-pull that you guys had going on.

Jaehyun wasn’t blind, he knew that your work definitely spoke of your professionalism, but he’s also seen the way Nakamoto stared after you. Of the way his hand would often touch your waist when walking together. Even now, as he hears you apologize through the phone again as you get ready for your “date” with him he can’t help this heart feel heavy with anger. Anger at himself, for letting you slip away once more. He usually hopes for nothing but the best for you, but this time, he wishes you had an awful dinner.

Sorry I'm an anti-romantic, I don't believe in romance

I'm afraid that after burning my whole heart, It will only leave behind ashes

Throughout the entire dinner, you can’t seem to get Jae out of your mind. It keeps you from enjoying the delicious food, keeps you from keeping your usual banter with Nakamoto.

You’re about to call it a night and thank Nakamoto for inviting you out when he beats you to it, “damn, I was hoping this might be a good break from the usual overtime we do, but something tells me your mind has been elsewhere,” he offers good naturedly, “I know it’s valentine’s, so maybe this is why we feel so awkward, right?”.

You grimace a bit at that, “ah—I’m sorry. I really am grateful for the way you look after me in the company and I’m also thankful for this lovely dinner,” you stop a bit, afraid you might offend him, “I agreed to come out tonight, so no need to feel awkward.” You offer a smile.

“Alright then. I guess you already have your sights on someone?” he prods. Should you be honest? There was no rule against dating outside your department, and you were pretty sure your new boss’s wife also worked within the company. “…I do. But I’m pretty sure they don’t feel the same way. It’s been so long since we’ve known each other. Surely if something were to have happened, it would have by now.” You were loosening up, definitely the wine’s fault.

Nakamoto sighs at that, “damn, and here I thought I could woo you after this,” he winks jokingly but you laugh him off. You knew he didn’t care for you that way. “I really hope you’re talking about the guy you always eat lunch with. I swear everyone thought you guys were married when you were released from training.”

“What?! No, I—we’ve been friends since we were children—”

“Aha! So it was him then,” he smirks. “Good.”

You groan, “Please, no.”

“What, it’s not him? You sure about that?”

“I will neither confirm nor deny that statement,” you groan. Why were you discussing your love life? You push the wine away and take a sip of your water.

“Hmm. That’s too bad. Could have sworn that guy was after you.” He stands up. “But fine, I’ll stop prodding.”

You sigh in relief—“for now.” You groan. “What do you even mean by that? You don’t even know him. Or me, or at least personally at least.”

“Mmm, I don’t have to. Some things you just know. Like how he wishes I was six feet under every time we run across him at work,” he sobers up at that. “He seemed like a cool dude, but his glare isn’t too friendly. I don’t know how you fell for that.”

You scoff, “just because someone has a resting bitch face doesn’t mean they’re a bad person.”

You both make your way to the underground parking. “You’re right, it just makes them unapproachable. Is that why you won’t confess?” His genuine tone rubs you the wrong way, you don’t need be given false hope.

“Stop it, you said you would drop it,” you frown, “Anyways, thank you for the food boss—”

“—not your boss anymore. Just call me Yuta, we’re partners now.”

“Aren’t you two years older than me?”

“And?”

You shrug at that, “well, thanks Yuta. For the food, not for the interrogation.” He chuckles at that, nodding while pulling out his car keys. “see you Monday!” he waves you off.

You sigh as you get home. It wasn’t as late as you thought it was, only a few minutes past nine. You really wanted to see him. Would he be busy?

You fish out your phone and dial his number before chickening out.

“Hello?”

“Jae! It’s me. Are you busy right now?” your heartbeat is pounding so loud, you’re scared he could hear it on the other end. “Right now?” you hear shuffling on the other end, “no, I was just reading that book Jungwoo sent me. Might have dozed off a bit into it but don’t tell him I said that,” he chuckles.

“Why, is everything ok? It’s still early, did you end dinner that fast?”

“Oh, Yuta and I called it a night pretty early. Too many couples were out and about and it got a bit awkward,” you explained.

“Yuta?”

“Ah, yes. Yuta Nakamoto, but now that we’re associates, he said it would be better to address him less formally.” You waive him off, “actually, I was wondering—if it’s not too late, can I still come over? If not, that’s cool. We can still hang out tomorrow, but your birthday is today and I thought—”

He laughs at your rambles, “of course you can come over, you know you don’t have to ask. How many times have I told you that?”

“Ok, ok. Just checking,” you still had your comfy change of clothes in your car, so you opt to save those for tomorrow and change into something causal for tonight.

“Do you want me to go get you? We can get ice cream on the way, hopefully they don’t close early.”

“Sounds like a plan then,” curse your heart for melting at everything he says.

“Alright, give me 15 and I’ll be there.” He hangs up.

You look at your bag, resting on your sofa and you sigh. The entire night, it’s almost as if you could feel the weight of his gift weighing it down. Yuta is known for being very observant, it’s why he was so good at his job. Closing deals and making contracts in advertisement. Would he be right about this? You know you desperately wish he was, but is it worth risking your best friend?

EndNote | Woooow, that was a longass ride. Let me know if you liked it or if there are other typos I missed! Or just to let me know what you thought, that would be much appreciated. I'm thinking of finishing it by Sunday 6/13, so hopefully the next part is up by then. Until then!

Here's Part 2!

[kaleidescope-writes]

Domestic King!Thomas Hiddleston Headcanons

Based on Heart of/Life in Audrilluria.

Heart of Audrilluria Masterlist

Life in Audrilluria Masterlist

Warnings: Extreme Fluff!! Soft Tom, Tom in general (this man needs a permanent warning), the Wonderful White T-Shirt, mentions of seggs, and some hecking words.

When it cames to Thomas, domesticity isn't something very common (given the uh... you know... king status). However, this only makes it even more special and cherished when you have a day off.

On the rare occasion you have a day off, the morning will start late, waking up at 10 am rather that 6 am as usual. Normally, you're awakened by a knocking at the door.

For these days, Thomas makes plans weeks in advance. Plans for the two of you to do absolutely nothing all day. He's a king 24/7. He needs at least one day every so often to relax and remember what it was like to interact with others for something other than royal business.

When the knocking at the door wakes you up, Thomas INSISTS on opening it himself and letting you rest a little longer. He's a gentleman, afterall. After greeting the person at the door, he walks back in with a cart containing breakfast. An assortment of your favorite fruit decorated as if they were flowers. A couple plates of your preferred breakfast meal. And a fresh beverage of your choice.

Thomas walks over to you, greeting you in a soft, deep voice still croaking with sleep. Placing soft kisses all over your face and neck with every word he speaks, he wraps his arms around you and pulls you into his chest. Now sitting on the bed with your back pressed to his chest, he let's go momentarily to bring you breakfast in bed.

After enjoying a meal in bed and having a few extra cuddles, you both get ready for a day to yourselves.

Thomas is definately dressing up casusal for once in his incredibly busy life just to have a nice relaxing day with you. Honestly, you're surprised he owns a T-shirt. Nonetheless, you spend about half an hour admiring how good he looks in that snug white shirt. (You know the one ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°))

He notices you staring. Its kind of obvious. He lets you look just a little longer, smugness building, before he smirks letting you know he knows. "See something you like, darling?"

Immediately walks over to hug you whe you get flustered after getting caught. Continues to tease, but lets you hide your face in his chest.

Or maybe, you get smug too. If you do, be prepared for his to retaliate with every ounce of smoothness in this man's body. It's enough to almost make your knees give out... Almost... If you keep going, he will persist, his only objective is to make your knees weak only so he can help you stand. If he is unsuccessful, well, let's just say he knows other ways to complete his objective. And well, he'll probably need to call the servers to send up a late lunch and skip dinner. Just to give you a small break to replenish your energy before the next couple rounds. 😘

That damned white shirt is magical.

Anyhow, the rest of his day off is spent in the massive castle library. Remember the one from Beauty and the Beast? That big. Its a damn maze. (An it also has a directory).

You spend the whole afternoon or evening( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) either reading while cuddling with him on one of the many couches in the library, having him read to you in his soothing voice, or discussing books you've read in a miniature book club. It's such sweet way to bond and you'd expect nothing less from the educated gentleman that is your majesty<3 boyfriend.

You count of time every day off, just because it's too peaceful to think of anything else. The latest you've stayed in the library is half an our past midnight. And just because one of the castle guards went looking for the two of you to let you know it was already tomorrow.

Every once in a while, one of the servers will stop by and bring you food and beverages just to make sure you don't spend too much time without sustenance.

After a long day of just being a couple, you retire to your shared room, eyes heavy with sleep. The entire time it takes you two to get to the bedroom, Thomas has his arms around you, holding you close while continuing to have a conversation with you. (By the way, The look he gives you as you talk about anything at all tells you just how much he loves everything about you. The softness in his eyes as he hangs on to every word you speak)

As soon as you get to the room, he will pull you towards the bed and lay down with you. He'll wrap his arms around you tightly and not let you go, despite your protests (or lack of).

He won't even worry about changing out of his day clothes. It just you and him in a blissful moment that he wishes would last forever.

Once sleep starts to creep into your eyelids, Thomas will kiss your forehead, lulling you to sleep as he tells you about how much he enjoyed the day spent with the love of his life.

The final thing you hear before finally giving in to your tired mind is his soft voice.

"Goodnight, my love."

This was long overdue, but it's finally done. I wanted to have this done yesterday for his birthday, but life happens and my wifi agreed. Anyway, thank you so much for reading!! I'm sorry for my recent inactivity, I am making an effort to post everything that is overdue, but it'll take some time. I hope you enjoyed, I missed you all, and I hope all is well in your small corner of the world.

Also,

Thank you so much for 402 followers!!!

Words can't express how much it means to me and how much I appreciate every single one of you!! Thank you all so fucking much for this, I never thought so many of you would like what I do. I love you all!!! Thank you!!!🥺🥰😍😘💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖

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[lovemalecforever]

Chapter 10

Emotions speak louder than words

Alec looked at her with slight relief and nodded. "Then let's head to New York tomorrow morning itself!"

"If that has to be done then I think Madzie can stay with him for the time being, in that way Magnus won't be alone."

"That sounds like a great idea, but... there's still a problem."

Catarina raised her brow. "What is it?"

"What am I going to tell Magnus about leaving for New York? I can't just say that I have to leave without giving him any reasonable explanation. And you're leaving with me too, he'll get suspicious and will ask a hell lot of questions!"

"We need to come up with something, but honestly I don't even know."

Rubbing his temples, he started pacing around when something struck him. He took out his phone and sent a quick text to his all-time lifesaver.

• Emergency needed, call ASAP!

-Alec. •

Catarina was looking at him intently, reviewing his actions, she got a glimpse of his text and got curious.

"Emergency needed! Really? And who did you text that to? Who else knows?"

Before Alec could answer, his phone started buzzing. He quickly picked it up and put it on speaker, but before he could say anything the other side's voice came quickly with a fierce and strong tone.

"Alec! Look, if this is one of your stupid kinds of emergencies, I swear, I'll portal myself to Alicante and kick your sweet little ass!"

Alec was mortified and his face was flushed with embarrassment. He looked at Catarina who was trying not to laugh.

"Are you done, Izzy!?"

Izzy sighed, then continued. "What is it, big brother?"

"First off, you're on speaker, Catarina is with me so 'thank you' for your sweet talk and second, we've found the complete spell!"

"By the angel! You did!" Izzy squealed. "But... this was your emergency, Alec?"

"Not exactly, for this ritual, I have to come to New York for a few days and Catarina is coming too, I'll explain everything when I'll be there. But the thing is, I don't know what to tell Magnus. Madzie is going to stay with him, but I can't just tell him I'm leaving without any reason, so, word of advice?"

"And to be honest, even though I'm not able to come up with something, knowing Magnus he's not gonna get convinced easily," Catarina added and looked at Alec.

"Oh! Hi Cat! Thank you for helping my brother, it's good to know that he has your support as well. And I agree with that. It's Magnus we're talking about."

"Izzy, not helping!" Alec said impatiently.

"Calm down big brother! Hold on a second..."

There was silence for some time on either side and Alec was growing impatient.

"Izzy, are you there?" But there was no reply.

"Izzy!?"

"Patience Alec!" Came the reply.

Alec sighed and looked at Catarina, she was getting worried too. After a few more minutes, Izzy finally spoke.

"Okay, so Alec, are you going to be busy with your ritual 24X7, or you'll have free time as well?"

"Honestly, it will take just a day, but I'll be needing everyone's permission first, I have to talk to everyone then only I'll proceed with it."

"Perfect! I think I have a solution to your problem!"

Alec and Catarina exchanged a look and heard her plan with curiosity.

_________________________

it was past 5:30 when Alec reached back home. As he entered, a strong smell engulfed his nostrils. Walking in further, he noticed Magnus's sleeping figure on the couch and sighed. The smell was strong and flavorful, so he was certain that something was cooking in the kitchen.

He walked towards their kitchen and saw that various kinds of herbs were spread on the kitchen slab, a pot was kept on the stove which was the source of the smell, and the stove was still on. He turned it off then walked back into the living room where his warlock was still sound asleep.

Kneeling down, he first caressed his cheek then left a soft peck on his forehead. As he was about to stand up, Magnus spoke in a hoarse voice.

"huhh... Alexander?"

"Hey there sleepyhead." He leaned down and pecked him on the lips.

"Hey. When did you come?" Magnus got up and sat on the couch.

"Just now."

"Oh, I didn't hea- oh no!" He panicked and was about to get up when Alec held him and made him sit down.

"Mags, if that was about the dinner you're preparing, I turned off the stove so don't worry, your dinner is safe. You can rest more if you want."

"No, I'm good, and thank you."

"For what? Turning off the stove?" He asked, confused.

"For finally coming home early, though it's not the early I expected but still, thank you."

"Are you trying to make me feel guilty?"

"Are you feeling guilty?"

Alec rolled his eyes. "Magnus, shut it!"

Magnus laughed a little and pulled Alec towards him making both of them fall on the couch, he then got on top of Alec and locked their lips. They pulled apart when they felt the need to breathe. He then rested his head on his Shadowhunter's chest.

"Magnus, love, not right now. We've got dinner to plan, right?"

"Ugh! Can't I cuddle my husband for a few minutes?"

"Magnus!"

"Ugh! Fine! You go get freshen up while I prepare the dinner."

____________________________________

*Time Skip- After dinner*

They both had their dinner and were cuddled on the couch watching Magnus' favorite movie. Alec was sitting and had his legs rested on the table while Magnus was laying down, his head rested on Alec's lap with a blanket covering him, Alec's fingers running through his hair and stroking it gently.

Alec was stroking his Warlock's hair, tangling it in his fingers then untangling it, stroking it then repeating the process again and again absentmindedly as his focus was on how to tell him about leaving for New York.

Magnus noticed this and looked up at his shadowhunter. "Is there something bothering you, Alexander?"

"Huh!? What?" Alec looked down at him.

"Is there something bothering you? You're nervous."

"I'm not nervous, Magnus."

"Alexander, I know your nervous tics, you always do that with my hair whenever you're nervous. What is it?"

"No, I don't, Magnus."

"Yes you do, now say it!"

Alec sighed, he knew he couldn't keep ignoring it and burst it on him at the eleventh hour. "I don't want to ruin our moment, but, can you please sit up? I need to talk to you."

This made Magnus worried, and he got up, paused the movie, and sat there facing his husband. "What's wrong?"

"Magnus, I... I need to leave for New York for a few days."

"What? But why so suddenly?"

"I didn't want to bring it up, but the demon attack that happened a month ago resulting in almost a war... " He trailed off and searched his Warlock's eyes for any sign of distress.

Magnus gulped nervously at the mention of that but composed himself and looked at his Shadowhunter. "What about that?"

"You're aware that it wasn't just in Alicante, it was all around the globe, but Alicante was the main target, destroying almost everything. The Clave made new rules and tightened their hold on the working ways of shadowhunters. They are still working on the new rules." He paused for a moment and looked at him in the eyes.

"I'm not getting it, how is it related?"

"There was a similar attack in New York a few days ago, it was taken care of, but the Clave wants to know how did it happen since every measure was taken and even wards were made stronger. So, they want someone from Clave to go there and inquire about it, and since I'm an Ex-Head of the Institute of New York they want me to go. Also, the meeting related to what was supposed to happen in Alicante has now been shifted to New York, so Cat is coming with me too as she's the new High Warlock of New York." He finished and looked at his warlock deep in the eyes.

Magnus looked at him, taking in every word he said, tears forming in the back of his eyes. The visions of that dreadful day coming in front of his eyes, he shut his eyes tightly.

Alec saw the sudden change in features of his warlock, he knew that look really well, and he knew what to do.

"Mags, hey! Look at me, I'm not going on any fieldwork, it's just a meeting. Hey, love, look at me!" He said softly while caressing his cheeks.

Magnus opened his eyes, tears were pooling on the edge of it. Alec's heart broke seeing that look on his warlocks face.

'I'm sorry, Magnus. I bought it up, but it was necessary, I didn't know what to do or say to you so Izzy and I advanced my inquiry visit and the meeting which was supposed to happen after a month as I didn't want to stress you, but I didn't have the option, I'm sorry love, I wish I can tell you that I'm actually leaving to be yours forever. Inquire visits and meetings are just excuses.' Alec thought.

"Mags, hey, I know what's scaring you, but please, don't think about it. I'm going to be at the institute the whole time and do you think any one of them will let me go on any hunts? They'll kick my ass and make me stay at the institute. You know Jace and Izzy, they won't let me. You don't have to worry about it." He cupped his Warlock's cheeks and wiped away the tears trying to escape from his eyes with the help of his thumbs.

"I'm sorry, I just... that day..."

"Mags..." He said softly.

"Do you promise you won't go on any missions? I know that's your job... but... I just ca-"

"Magnus, I promise, I won't. Just stop crying now, I can't see you like this." 'That's not what I'm going for anyways.' he added in his mind.

Magnus gave him a dull smile, still not completely recovered from the flashes of memories he just had. "When are you leaving?"

"I..." He cleared his throat. "Tomorrow morning. And since Cat is coming with me too, we thought Madzie could stay with you for the time being. If you're okay with it?"

Magnus became a little more normal at the mention of his favorite warlocks name. "Are you kidding!? Sweet pea is always welcomed here. And, by the way, when did you meet Cat?"

"Umm... this evening, before coming home. I went to her apartment to tell her about it."

"Oh, that explains it! Alexander, I'm sorry, I got really emotional for no reason. It's just that I'm not able to-"

"Magnus, I know. You don't have to explain. I didn't want to bring it up, but it was necessary. Honestly, if it hadn't been important, I would never agree on leaving. But Mags, you'll be okay for a few days without me?" He said the last part a little teasingly to lighten the mood, and that did work.

"Why wouldn't I be, instead, me and sweet pea are gonna enjoy and party without your grumpy complaints now and then!"

"Excuse me!? I'm not grumpy!"

"Says the king of grumpiness."

"I'm not grumpy, Magnus!"

"Look who's getting grumpy right no-"

Before Magnus could complete the sentence Alec locked their lips and kissed him with every emotion pooling inside him, his one hand stroking his face gently and the other on his waist holding him in place. He pulled apart after some time and looked straight into Magnus' eyes.

"Can we please live in the moment right now and not discuss that further," Alec said breathlessly.

"Couldn't agree more!"

"Wanna lay down again?" He tapped his lap.

"No, I want cuddles!" He got closer to him leaving no distance between them, lifted the Shadowhunter's hand, wrapped it around himself, and rested his head on his chest, covering them both with the blanket and resuming the movie.

Alec tightened his grip around his warlock's shoulders and smiled with relief that Magnus wasn't upset anymore. He kissed him on top of his head and resumed watching the movie.

[luxenbm]

~Silent Corps~

A/N: So uhh, this is my first time ever writing a smut. Don’t expect it to be good, cause I’m an amateur! I’m sorry for any grammar or spelling mistakes in advanced too! I have no idea what I’m doing so be prepared to read one of the worst smuts ever! XD

Genre: Smut/Mafia AU

Pairing: Kim Taehyung x Reader

Warnings: ???? Cringey as fuck,

Summary: In which a girl gets an arranged marriage with a mafia son by her parents. Still being the hopeless romantic she is, she agrees.

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”Ahh! This should be the last one out of them!” She huffed, putting her hands on her hips. The poor girl has been doing chores the whole day, which she was supposed to be resting. She turned her head to look at the clock on her wall. ”6:35 p.m. already? Have I been doing chores that long?” She let out a sigh and headed back to the living room hoping to just chill for the rest of the day.

She turned on the tv hoping to watch some of her childhood TV shows. A couple of examples was Rollie Pollie, Franny’s Feet, Blue’s Clues, Pingu, Bratz you named it. Not before even 10 minutes have passed by she received a call from her parents.

”Yes, dad?” she paused the tv show she was watching. ”Sweetie, we need you to come to this restaurant called ’JYP Buffet’ please dress nicely. Like a dress or something, last time you wore sweatpants saying that was a ’nicely’ outfit you had.” I groaned, already know that I won't be able to deny anything. ”Do I really have to?”

A sigh could be heard from the other line already giving Y/n her answer. ”Alright ill go, but can you tell me what it’s about first though?” She asked. ”You’re gonna be in an arranged marriage with the son of the company we are aligned with.”

What.The.Fuck.

Okay yeah, I know my parents know that I’m a loner and won’t ever get a boyfriend or a husband in general, but they had the audacity to sign me up for an arranged marriage with a guy I have never met before?! Who knows too! Maybe the guy could even kill me, knowing that he is involved in some mafia shit. Ugh.

I let out a sigh, “Alright I’ll go to this ‘dinner date’ or whatever you call it.” You could already tell that both of your parents are smiling just by the time of your dad’s voice. “Alright sweetie, we’ll see you in a few minutes.” You could hear your mom’s voice in the backyard excited for some grandchildren’s, and that’s when you knew that you have to end the call. Turning off the tv, you head upstairs to take a shower.

_________________________________________

After putting on your best dress that you could find, you drove to the location where the dinner date was held. You decided to put some Ateez songs on, with Wave being your favourite song at the moment.

You drove in silence soaking up the silence.

__________________________________________

Finally arriving at your destination, you hopped out of your car and headed towards the entrance. After dealing with the front desk, you went upstairs and searched for your parents. It wasn't crowded as usual due to it being Sunday night.

After scanning the room, you found your parents sitting near the window wall. You made your way to them, noticing that your ’husband’ and his parents weren't here yet. Very professional, you mumbled.

You settled down with your parents, sitting to the left side of your mom giving you the beautiful view of the city. 

”Hey mom, I know this is kinda straight forward but like, why are you letting me marry a man that I doing love. Heck, I've never met him before.” You asked, she looked at you with a sad smile. ”Unfortunately, we can't do anything about it right now. Given our current situation, our rival gang is planning an attack and we need to be on top of our game.” She placed a hand on top of your head, caressing it slowly. ”I hope you understand our situation and perspective dear.”

Nodding my head, I turned back my attention to the city lights displayed. A few little minutes passed by when they finally arrived at the table. ”I’m so so sorry we were late. We kinda had a little problem on the way here.” The man chuckled, trailing behind him was a woman and a young man. Y/n and her parents stood up and bowed do them, both her father and the man shook hands while her mother and the woman hugged each other.

All of you sat back down, with your supposed ’husband’ was sitting right in front of you. Of course, you being you, you weren't great with people. So what else would you do? Start a conversation with him. Simple right? Well, not for your introverted ass.

”So, my name is Y/n if you didn't know yet.” She looked at him smiling. While he stared back at her with a cold dagger eyes. You gulped down the lump that was slowly forming in your throat. ”Taehyung. My name is Taehyung.” he replied, before eating his coq au vin. Feeling rejected already you decided to eat your cassoulet.

You continue to start a conversation but you would only get a simple yes or no, or dry answers sometimes resulting in him of ignoring you completely or just a nod of the head. For sure you felt very awkward, due to both of your parents happily chatting away and there's the two of you.

You couldn't help but hear a few of their conversations were, like how Taehyung was the son of the most feared mafia leader in Korea. Or how Taehyung doesn't handle drinking well, leading that to one of his disadvantages when doing one of his missions. You couldn't help but chuckle on a few more things that you have heard about Taehyung from his mother.

The dinner went unexpectedly well, with no problems occurring. Both of their parents had said that they will be announcing something to Y/n and Taehyung.

While you were taking your time eating your dariole, you couldn't help but notice someone getting impatient with you. Just to tease him you decided to order some more food!

”Excuse me! Can I please have two more darioles, one opera cake, one charlotte, and one Tarte Tatin!” You ordered happily, knowing that your stomach is gonna be happy. The waitress scribbled down your orders and walked back to the kitchen. ”You fat fucking pig.” Taehyung cursed to you quietly not letting both of your parents hear. ”Excuse me? But can you let a girl enjoy her food without being body shamed?” you huffed out. He rolled his eyes and looked at the city lights.

This dude is really trying to disrespect me! Nah, he even tried to disrespect food! Who the hell in their right mind would disrespect food?!

Finally finishing your food, both if your parents decided to tell you guys the news they have kept. ”Okay, we know this I very unexpected and very shocking but it's only gonna bring you guys good luck, and a good future!” Taehyung’s mother stated. The three other parents nodding their heads. ”So then, we decided that the two of you will be living together, starting tomorrow!” Your mom happily squealed.

You knew your parents were crazy but never THIS crazy! In the end, both you and Taehyung agreed. Knowing the punishment that you two will get since both of your parents are top mafia leaders in Korea. Sure there were a few arguments about it here and there, but they all resolved that at the end.

__________________________________________

It was the day that you were gonna move in with Taehyung in the new house. When you got there you were surprised that all of Taehyung’s stuff and a couple of other stuff from both of their parents were all ready there. After organizing all of your stuff you decided to meet up with a friend named, Mia.

”Mia oh my god! You wouldn't believe what has happened yesterday!” You quickly sat down after getting your coffee. She placed down her cappuccino and looked at you with a straight face. ”Let me guess you either did something dumb, or something that you regret. ORRRR, your ’husband’ Levi has died in one of his missions.” She ranted just a few possibilities that you have called her. You rolled your eyes and scoffed. ”C’mon I ALWAYS don't talk about Levi!” You argued, ”When you’re not talking about Levi, you’re talking about food.” She calmly argued back.

”Ugh, the reason I called you hear is that I'm in deep shit.” You retorted, ” What did you do this time?” taking a drink out of her cappuccino.

”I may it may not have accidentally married a mafia son.” You mumbled, so the other people around you couldn't hear you. She almost spat out the cappuccino that she was drinking, wiping her mouth with her sleeve and looking at you with wide eyes.

”You did what?!” And that my friend started the whole question of trains from Mia. After answering a few more questions that Mia asked, you decide to go home.

__________________________________________

You locked the gate of the house, and walked towards the door. Due to this house being obviously large, its front yard was also humongous. Right when you were about to open the door you were met with Taehyung outside holding something.

“Listen, I know now is not the ‘right time’ for this, but I need your help. Will you help me or not?” He asked impatiently.

“...Is that a dead body?” I looked at the dead corps in his hands.

Still fully shocked you said nothing but stared at him with wide eyes and an open mouth. Taehyung getting irritated with your silence and the weight of the body, he decided to drag you with him. Holding the body with one hand while gripping your hand with the other.

”Hey! Where do you think you’re taking me?!” You gasped.

”Just shut the fuck up, and follow me.” He growled. You guys ended up going into a woods that was just behind your house. You tried everything that you could to let him stop gripping you so tight and pulling you, but there was no use.

The three of you, ahem plus the body was just standing beside the river which looks like it would lead to a place where it has a lot of water. He let out a relieved sigh and looked at you.

”So, what do you think we should do with the body?” He asked you. You being you, you still couldn't process the situation. Dead body? Taehyung? Taehyung killed someone?! There were so many things going through your mind all at once, it seems like you were back in math class again.

”I have a solution.” You chirped, he turned his attention back to you.

”Thank goodness, well, what is it?” He asked.

”It involves fire.”

”Absolutely not.” looking at you in disbelief. ”Alright how about this.” He murmured.  Taehyung started to take the body and putting a black beanie that looked like robbers would wear, and then began writing some stuff. Getting irritated again with you just standing there, he called you to help him throw the body into the water.

”Don’t just stand there dumbass! I dragged you hear for a reason.” He scolded you. Who do does he think he is!? I swear to God, I’ll get my revenage on him someday. With your face filled with horror with on what you have to do, Taehyung started to snicker due to your reaction but turned to a bitch face again.

You grabbed the bottom part of the body while Taehyung grabbed the upper part. On a count of three you guys threw the body into the river and watched it moved due to the toughness of the river flow.

“I’m sorry God for who I have sinned.” I mentally readyed myself, knowing that I will have to deal more of these in the future. Taehyung let out a scoffed. Turning my head to his direction I shot him a glare.

“Why did you kill that dude anyway?” I asked him, as we walked back to the house. “Why? It’s because I caught him trying to rob our place.” He simply stated. Rob!?

“They must’ve heard that people were gonna move in.” He started to walked ahead of me. Huh.

__________________________________________

The same day when you were preparing for dinner, you and Taehyung got into a heated argument. Weather if coffee was good or not. Of course both of you were very pressed, Taehyung being the coffee hater and you being the coffee lover.

Who in their right might would hate coffee!? You shouted in your thoughts. “Listen here buddy, I don’t dare who you are, I don’t care where you’re from, but never, and I mean never, disrespect coffee like that!” You pointed at him with your spatula. He looked at you in disbelief.

“I never knew people who loves coffee can irritate me this much.” He mumbled. Of course you got easily offended, I mean who wouldn’t?

“Excuse me sir, but coffee has its rights to be a good drink. You can pull off any dessert or pastries with coffee!” You argued back. Walking towards you in a slowed pace, looking like he was about to punish you( WiNk WiNK). His stare wasn’t helping the situation either. Pinning you down on the couch he then starred at you deeply.

“If you run, I will follow you. Search these city streets until I’ve found you and I will never let you run away again.” He said in a low raspy voice.

“You don’t owe me.” You boldly said, ahem, which wasn’t a good idea. Not at all.

“Oh, I do.” Pressing his lips into your own plump lips, taking you in full surprise. He started leaving small trails of kisses down to your neck, before kissing your lips again. Taehyung carried you upstairs to your bedroom, not breaking the kiss even one bit.

__________________________________________

( Pov all over the place for this one sorry xD )

He closed the door with his foot and placed me down on the soft cloudy mattress. Our tongues pressed together in a hot, openmouthed kiss. She felt wetness dampening the fabric of her panties, already feeling aroused. Pinning both of your wrists with one hand he started to slowly undress the girl underneath him. Unhooking the red lacy bra that was immediately thrown god who knows where in the room.

“Hmm? Were you planning to seduce me today?” He asked in a low raspy voice. Knee between your thighs he slowly slides his hand down your leg up and down. You couldn’t help but let out a few moans out when he started to suck on your neck leaving love bites. His lips slowly trailing down from your neck to your breasts. He admired the soft swell of your breasts, before placing his mouth on your bud.

Shivering slightly due to the new feeling being delivered to your body. His lips brushing on your left ear, “Now, be a good girl and behave for daddy alright?” He whispered, already loosing your mind you nodded.

He let out a deep chuckle that could make anybody aroused. Taehyung got up and sat on the end of the bed looking at you with pure lust in his eyes. “Suck.” He commanded. Getting up from your position, you got in front of him and started unzipping his pants, removing his boxers you look at his size. God. It was the biggest one you’ve ever seen, probably about 8 inches.

I grabbed a hold of his cock and started to licked the head with small, short strokes of her tongue. Looking up at Taehyung, face full of pleasure. Bobbing your head in a fast pace you can feel his cock start to shudder. Eventually releasing his orgasm. Taehyung immediately grabbed a hold of you and threw you on the bed. “All fours, face the bed frame now.” He ordered.

I followed his orders before feeling a sensation near your clit. Taehyung started to rub my sensitive clit through the fabric of my red lacy panties. He slowly pulls down my panties revealing my sensitive area to him. Taehyung rubs the tip of his cock against my swollen pussy lips, teasing me until I can take it no longer and whine for him to fuck me. He complies, pushing his hips forward to bury his cock deep in my pussy.

"I'm going to fuck you so hard you won't be able to walk!" He grunted. He started to pound in a sonic pace inside me, not even letting me adjust to his gigantic size. Pleasure. All I felt was pleasure. “Fuck you are so tight already!” He howled. “Yes! Oh god yes!” You moaned out when Taehyung found your g-spot.

He immediately started to hit that spot over and over again. You on the other hand, were losing your mind due to how much pleasure you’re getting. Is this how being a slut feels like? You thought. Your cheeks over and over with Taehyung’s abdomen.

SLAP!

“Ahh” you moaned out, a burning sensation stride to the rest of your body. You then realized he had slapped your ass. He let out a chuckle.

“From the moment I had laid my eyes on you, I couldn’t help but stare at your ass.” He purred. “They always jiggle whenever you walked, especially yesterday when you were wearing that tight dress.” He slapped your ass again, letting out a horny moan out of your plump lips.

“But now, I have this fantastic view of it right in front of me. I can eat it out whenever I want...” He cooed. You started to get more pleasure if that was even possibly, due to him talking dirty. “Nnggh, ahh! Taehyung I’m close...ngh..” you moaned. “I-I am too, let’s cum together baby girl...” his voice trembling.

Suddenly a rippling wave of shockwaves was released. Taehyung pulled out of you just in time, he had cummed. A pulsing feeling lingered in your sensitive area. Taehyung left the room and came back with a few tissues in his hands; he then started cleaning you up. Taehyung pulled the duvet over the both of you guys and starred living at your eyes.

“You aren’t that half bad you know,” You told him. He raised an eyebrow, “Why? You thought I was gonna be one of those bitchy, cocky, immature mafia son’s?” He chuckled.

Oh how much you love that chuckle of his. You smiled sweetly, “maybe..” He pounced on you and started ticking your sides.

“Ahh! Taehyung! Stop it!” You gripped his shoulders trying to push him away. He then gripped your sides and placed your foreheads together.

“I’m sorry if I was too rough with you...” he closed his eyes.

“It’s okay, also,” he let out a quiet yeah as a response.

“Coffee is good.”

__________________________________________

A/N: KSFNJSJSIRISIZFIIDS I’m sorry once again, because I have no idea what I’m doing! Hope you enjoyed though! Xoxo

[nine-mp3]

Your Neighbor Sungho | Ch. 1

Photo Credits:

- left hand corner, @116page

- center, @newat_rie

Rie (sungho) x (female) reader, fluff, slice of life, semi-angsty (?)

appearances of other OnlyOneOf and Dreamcatcher members will occur

hey so I rolled a wheel on who to write a fanfic first and got rie plus picked out a prompt to write from

warnings: alcohol, getting drunk; in this fic is PG-13, some light cursing occasionally, super tiny mention of smut in description beginning and that’s all;

btw i’m pretty sarcastic, there’s sarcasm thrown here and there, hope you enjoy :D

This is my first time sharing my writing on a public platform. As a writer, I always appreciate constructive criticism. Feel free to leave feedback in the comments if you have anything to say. Thank you in advance for reading as well

Also, please DO NOT repost my work anywhere without my permission or plagiarize.

Description: your neighbor, sungho, from the day you've moved in has kept you up countless nights with their significant other. dancing, muffled long conversations, and amongst other noises you wished you could wipe from memory. one day it suddenly stops. those days become months.

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Your neighbor, Sungho, from the day you've moved in has kept you up countless nights with their significant other. Dancing, muffled long conversations, and amongst other noises you wished you could wipe from memory. One day it suddenly stops. These days become months. Now, you couldn't help but to be concerned.

Sungho isn't a bad neighbor. You recall complaining to him at some point, amidst trying to focus on a report you had to write up for work, and he apologized for the noise. Many times. He seemed embarrassed, never realizing how thin the walls were in the apartment building, and promised to keep the noise levels down. These promises would last only about a week. Their significant other was quite the complete opposite of Sungho, a loud individual. From what you were aware, the two didn't live together. His significant other would come over daily to stay or visit.

As much as they were loud, they didn't seem to like you either. Looks of disdain thrown whenever you happen to cross them in the hallway, being in the same elevator cart, or when Sungho was trying to be a good neighbor by greeting you. They would pull him away immediately, putting his attention back on them. Sometimes you thought that they were being loud on purpose, knowing that you were next door, and very well aware of the complaints. The reason why? You had no idea. The best guess you could come up with was that they saw you as a threat to their relationship. Which was ridiculous. You hardly knew the male nor could the both of you call each other friends.

Sometimes Sungho left fruits or drinks at your door with little notes of apologies for their rowdiness. And for their significant other's behavior. For the most part, you bared through it or simply did all your work within the hours at your office now and prayed that tiredness would consume you once you hit your bed, blocking out any disturbances.

So, life goes on.

One weekend, you just happened to get home from going out with your friends. It was late, past midnight. You heard arguing through the walls between Sungho and their significant other.

"You're always like this, Sungho!"

Immediately, you felt very uncomfortable entering your apartment. It wasn't something you wanted to hear or should be hearing. Not that you could help it either since you lived next door. You backed yourself outside, considering going to the balcony on the floor for a bit. Stepping back outside of your door, their argument becomes muffled.

Why couldn't the landlord just keep the damn wall consistency the same?

Suddenly, Sungho's door flies open followed by their significant other storming out. You jump up out of surprise, the noise scaring you. They're heading down the hallway, to the elevators, without looking back. Sungho appears at his door not too long after, holding it open.

"Wait-" he calls out to them, his voice faltering.

The male notices you then, staring with wide eyes at him. At that moment, you were able to get a full picture of his current position. The hurt in his eyes.

"Oh...y/n. Are you here to complain about the noise again? I'm really sorry-"

"Uh, no! No, not at all. See, I just was returning home now. Don't worry about it," you said, awkwardly blinking a few times, reaching to grab for your keys from your bag once again.

"Um, I'm heading inside now! Okay, bye!"

You immediately opened your door again, rushing, running into your living room. The door shuts behind automatically and you let out a sigh of relief. You felt bad for suddenly running away, but you weren't about to ask or give relationship advice if Sungho wasn't asking for it. Besides, what if it was only a lover's quarrel?

They'll probably make up soon. Talk about a rough night…

Then the realization set in. The apartment would be definitely quiet for at least another day. A smile rises to your face.

What a horrible thing to be happy over...after seeing your neighbor fight with their significant other. Then again, they weren't all that nice to me.

You shrugged, waving the events aside, calling it a night, enjoying the peaceful silence...only with the slight remaining, lingering tension in the air. After you showered, brushed your teeth, and changed into pajamas, you immediately laid down on your bed. Pulling the covers over, you found yourself thinking. Staring up to the ceiling of your room in the dark.

That argument sounded bad though...ugh. None of your business, y/n. Go to sleep. They'll probably be fine tomorrow…

─────────────────

Define the term "fine".

The next day, as you predicted, was quiet. That you could hear a pin drop from down the hallway. You enjoyed it, a Sunday afternoon peace. It allowed you to catch up on work, eat, watch T.V, write poetry...overall without any disturbances. Sungho, your neighbor, was long forgotten from your mind.

The thing is, it goes on for the next week. You weren't worried about it at all because you were swamped with work. The next reports and presentations came with close deadlines. The silence was appreciated, allowing you to focus; you got lost in piles of work and many cups of coffee.

Worry about your neighbor only returned on the brief encounters when the both of you were heading to work in the mornings. Sungho still greeted you, but only with a brief nod and face expressionless. They would walk ahead first, not bothering to see even if you returned the greeting or not. Sometimes you heard him leaving earlier than you and now you couldn't help but to wonder what his occupation was.

The week turns into two and three. He stops greeting you at some point, or maybe he wasn't very aware of his surroundings; his whole aura was different. Sungho usually would at least do his hair before going out and dress somewhat decently. Now it was always a mess, his bangs left down to cover his eyes, matching with black attire. You saw him up close in his current condition when you were returning to the apartment building one afternoon. The male had collided into you, by accident. Turning around immediately on the impact, once you had regained your balance, you're faced with eyes that were written with sleepless nights, dark circles prominent. At least, this time, he mumbles an apology before moving on.

By the time it reaches the end of the month, your workload becomes lighter for the year, you find more time thinking about the current situation of your neighbor. You called up one of your best friends at your workplace one night. It wasn't the first time you discussed your neighbor with them.

"Yoojung, it's the end of the month. I haven't seen his significant other in awhile. As much as I enjoy the silence, I hate seeing Sungho this dead," you said, a hand gripping onto the balcony railing out of nervousness.

“Note check. You don’t even know the guy. Why exactly are you so worried?” Yoojung on the other end replies.

Your friend had a point. Why were you worried?

“Well…I don’t have an answer, actually. I don’t know why I’m worried. Can’t I just be a good neighbor?” you replied.

“It’s none of your business, y/n. Looking at reality. But if you’re so worried, go knock on his door and talk to him. Even if it’s just a hello. Didn’t he leave you fruits before? You can do that in return if you’re so curious,” Yoojung suggested, not sounding all that interested.

“Anyways, you’re coming to the group outing for dinner next week right? On Saturday? Please tell me you didn’t forget or you plan on cancelling. We hardly ever get a chance for everyone to come together again.”

“Alright, thanks so much for the advice...I guess...and keep your pants on, Yoojung. Of course I’m coming. Good night,” you scowled at him.

You hung up the phone then, not giving a chance for the other to say his goodbye. As much as he was your best friend, he could be a pain in the ass. Turning around, you exited out the balcony to return back to your apartment for the day.

So much for calling it a night.

Once you make it back, you’re greeted with Sungho at your door, hunched over, using an arm to keep his weight up against the wall. First thought that came to mind: he’s unwell and he came to ask you for help? You immediately approach the male, only to be hit by a smell of alcohol and you jolt back. The second thought you had, only confirmed: he’s drunk.

“Sungho?! Are you okay?” you asked nervously, tapping his shoulder lightly.

The male looks up to you, quite confused.

“y/n? Oh. Yeah...I’m fine. Just trying to get into my apartment...but the key.... doesn’t seem to fit…” Sungho said, words spoken slowly as he tries to stand upright.

“Did...the landlord change the locks?”

“No, no. The landlord didn’t. You’re at the wrong apartment, this one is mine. Uh, do you need help?” you said, raising an eyebrow at him.

“Ah...well, that makes...sense now,” Sungho said, a drunk written smile appearing on his face.

“No, it’s okay...I’m always disturbing you... I’m really sorry...Have...a good night, y/n.”

It’s the first time you’ve seen him smile in such a long time. Of course, it only happens to be when he’s not sober. Also, you’re very aware that drunk people do need help but always deny it. You watch as he turns around, folding your arms and counting down in your head.

3... 2...1

The male collapses on the ground, completely knocked out from the alcohol in his system. You blew up at your hair, huffing then, staring down at his figure on the ground.

This night just got a whole lot longer.

─────────────────

[justinsdaysinthedark]

Post # 6 - It is what it is

I'd be lying if I said I haven't spent the past half an hour with tears flowing from my eyes staring at a blank screen wondering how I'm going to get everything I've got floating in my head out. I suppose listening to Coldplay live in Argentina probably wasn't the best choice of music to set the mood. I'll work on that one in the future...

Where do I start? It's been a question I'm often asking myself at the start of these blog posts and it's certainly not the easiest one. What do you guys know? There's been so much happen since my last post on Thursday night.

Friday July 26th: I saw my doctors around lunchtime who came in quite concerned. Whilst they were confident my lymphoma was one called DLBCL (Diffuse Large B- Cell Lymphoma), some tests had come back with suspect results that it could be a more aggressive and harsh type of lymphoma called Burkitt's lymphoma and if confirmed, chemo was starting that night with no time to waste. There was also one marked in the middle (a cross of the two) called Burkitt's Like Lymphoma which is treated similarly to DLBCL. Whatever it was, I couldn't change it. I just wanted answers and if treatment needed to start, let's get it underway!

Adam, my incredible haematology doctor sent off another test of my gall bladder to finally get the confirmation I was after. It was urgent. He had to know. It was reassuring of Adam to state "Justin, we need to know what this is. Preliminary results are due back later this afternoon and that will hopefully rule out Burkitt's. if it is Burkitt's, we'll start chemo tonight and I'll be with you every step of the way - even if I have to stay back a few hours."

I know doctors earn a fair coin on a lazy day, but how many give you that much confidence that you and your health is important to them? I'm going to have it a guess and say not many but alas, I am so incredibly lucky with the team of doctors I have.

4:00pm and Adam strolls in the door heading straight for my room. My heart drops, similarly to what it had when Michael dropped the news I had lymphoma. "Good news. Preliminary results are back and we're confident it's not Burkitt's. You can't rule out anything in life, so there still is a small chance it could be. We're happy to wait for the final results on Monday, figure out a treatment plan from there and start Chemotherapy next week. Spend Saturday and Sunday on day leave and I'll see you next week."

This was news to my ears. In a time of what has been negative or no news, I could spend the weekend with family relatively freely and forget everything was happening for a few hours each day. My Uncle Bob and Aunty Denise were down from Tasmania to see me, as was my Aunty AJ and cousins from Bairnsdale so it all felt like it fit into place.

Friday night saw me considerably more relaxed with this news...that was until Collingwood started and it was the demolition it was. Slightly humorous side note, the nurse came in around 9pm for my nightly observations. Naturally, my heart rate was up a bit more than normal watching the football (118BPM - normally between 70-85BPM). This caused the nurse to call in the team of doctors who wanted to put me on an ECG machine for the night and monitor my heart. I assured them it was because Collingwood were on and if they gave me an hour, I'd be okay. It took some convincing, but it finally worked. Back they came an hour later and it had gone down - crisis averted.

Saturday afternoon and evening was wonderful. I went down to dads for dinner and was fortunate enough to spend some much needed time with family over a beautiful dinner and good laugh.

Sunday was much the same. I went home, mum did a fair chunk of washing for me as I spent it being me. Seeing Courtney, napping in my own bed and even headed over to Fountain Gate and got some much needed new clothes and other miscellaneous items - something that seems so simple but is such a luxury when you've spent the past 15 days in hospital.

Monday July 29th: They say the more you think positively, the more positive news you shall receive....or it goes something like that right? I woke up this morning the most upbeat and best I'd felt in weeks. I felt fine. I felt no pain, almost like I'd woken up from a shitty hotel! In all honesty, I felt like I'm abusing the system however I keep being quickly reminded how much I need to be here. Did I wake up so positive because I lived my old life for 16 hours over the weekend? Is it because I was hoping to hear a reasonably positive outcome with this lymphoma test? Probably a mix of both if I'm honest. But whatever it was, I was hopeful.

Adam came around at roughly 10:00am. Didn't really have much for me in terms of news but more of an outline of the day. If they hear the results of the test they were waiting on, they'd write me up a treatment plan ASAP and get chemo started this afternoon. At worst, I'd be starting it tomorrow (Tuesday). They just needed that definitive answer of what type of lymphoma I have - an answer I'd love more than anybody.

Either way, we agreed i'd need a PICC (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter) line in which basically is a long-term cannula. It runs from the inside of my arm right up and around and stops basically just outside my heart. This is for easy access for the chemotherapy and even an easy exit for blood tests - something that's proven incredibly difficult to take from me over the past few days. Additionally, these lines can last up to six months verses the three days you get from a cannula. There were too many positives to say no to!

This wasn't scheduled for any time in particular, so 1:00pm came around and I was about to be taken to get the PICC line in.

Just as I was about to leave, Adam came in with a few words I'm all too familiar with. "Well, the pathology tests we were waiting on have come back inconclusive..."

Woah. Wait. What? How do tests of my gall bladder that was removed six days ago come back inconclusive? How does one of the main sources not have enough 'data' to tell them what sort of lymphoma I have? I was just stunned.

Adam continued "As a result, we can see some signs of Burkitt's lymphoma and that's what we're going to treat you for. You're young. You should be able to handle it and it's better to over treat you than under treat and be stuck where we are at the moment. It's an intense 16-day chemo treatment that will totally wipe out your red and white blood cells as well as your platelets. We foresee you being in here for another 3-5 weeks, depending on how well your body goes getting these levels back up to normal post this first treatment..."

I honestly say this but that's all I remember from this conversation. I was hoping I'd be heading home this week but looks like that definitely won't be happening. Today marks day 40 of the past 55 days in hospital (day 15 of this stint) and if I go off the longest suggested time expected, I have another 35 days to go. That honestly crushed me.

I got taken down to get my PICC line in - quite an easy process. Very similar to putting in a larger cannula, just a whole lot longer and uses local anaesthetic as well as being guided by an ultrasound and X-ray. I'm lucky enough to have two ports, which will hopefully speed up some of my medication and how much they can pump in. Does it feel weird? The only weird part was feeling it slide down past and near my heart - but that's okay now!

By the time I return, dad made his was in to try and help process the news. We get Adam in to once again explain the process. In layman's terms, I'll be starting an intense and high-dose 16-day chemotherapy program kicking off tomorrow (Tuesday) morning. Most of the time across the next 16 days, I'll be hooked up via IV drip getting whatever medication is required. I think I saw I have rest days on days 7 & 8 which I suppose will give me two days to look forward to. At the end of the day, it's something I'm not certain on and will be a day by day process and constant learning about what's going into my body to help fight with me.

I do have one request for you all. With my body not producing red or white blood cells or platelets over the next few weeks, I do request if you are planning to visit however are sick to stay away those extra few days. With my immune system going to be at the lowest it's been, I don't particularly want to pick up something I don't need. Additionally, as much as I'd love flowers, they're also banned due to the infection risk of the spores mixing with the chemotherapy and causing some dangerous damage from the inside.

At the end of the day, if you're not sure please message me and check as I'm not entirely sure myself about everything. I'm constantly learning as I'm going.

How am I feeling? I'm nervous. I'm nervous at the unknown. How will this affect me? How bad am I going to feel? Will I lose my hair? What will my energy levels be like? In advance, I do apologise if over the next few weeks I'm not myself. Truth be told, that's because I probably won't be.

In a way, i'm finally excited to start my treatment first thing tomorrow morning (after yet ANOTHER lumbar puncture). I was so envious of both people next to me getting their first rounds of chemo today. I know mine will be intense but I just can't wait.

I've learnt so much about cancer and chemotherapy over the past four days and I know there's so much more to learn. Today I learnt I'll be incredibly highly cytotoxic, which basically means all needles and anything used on me need to go in a separate bin just for me. Additionally, I'll have to get used to the good old double flush after the toilet to ensure all waste is disposed of. Mouth ulcers are a big issue with most chemo patients as well. I'll have to start brushing my teeth after every meal and taking a special mouthwash 3x daily to assist with keeping these under control. There's plenty of other little things, but they're two I least expected.

Everything really hit me last night....not like it did tonight though. I just had twenty minutes to reflect and it just became a sudden realisation. What I'm going through is real. It's not a 'joke' anymore. It's not something they're looking at as a potential cause. It is the cause. I have a legitimate medical issue and it's finally time to fight lymphoma. All well and good to be talking the talk like I have been - it's now time to walk the walk. This sits well with me. If I give somebody my word, I do whatever I can to get it achieved. Unfortunately for the lymphoma throughout my body I've given it my word and it's time to fight it. Round one begins tomorrow morning.

I leave tonight feeling a whole lot better than I did when I started tonight's post. I didn't learn from my words earlier as Coldplay live from Argentina is still playing however I'm in a much more comfortable mind space.

My best friend of a lazy 20 years, Dylan visited tonight with his partner, Jacqui. One phrase popped up more than most and they made me aware it was a common phrase coming out of my mouth.

"It is what it is."

I can't control what's happened to me as "it is what it is." What I can control from here though is how I fight lymphoma. Thanks for the visit tonight guys, I appreciated the two hours spent here in what's been an incredibly tough afternoon.

Much love.

Juzz xx

[mommingwithlupus]

7 Reasons to Exercise at Home

I used to go to the gym and honestly I love the gym atmosphere, but nowadays it's not for me with my schedule and family life. I used to go with a friend and sometimes alone before I had my second child. My son was old enough to leave him home and the gym membership was only $25 per month. Not too bad and I had time after work to join in on classes and even extra cash to pay for a personal training group for another $120 per month. Well, once I had my second baby I no longer had all these luxuries. Not only did I now have to pay for the new cost of daycare and diapers, I also couldn't find the time to get to the gym. The few times I tried, the Kids Club would call me to come get my crying breastfed baby so I could nurse her. My workout would get interrupted because she was so attached to mom and I couldn't be gone for 20 mins without her having a meltdown. I decided to try a new routine and exercise at home. I'm so glad I did! Now that I have 3 kids, I can't see myself doing anything else. Exercising at home makes life so much easier for me and there are so many apps and streaming methods that can be used these days that anything I need is available somewhere.

Here are the reasons working out at home is the best option for me as a mommy of 3 and a lupus warrior:

Available Any Time- Whether you are an early riser and want to exercise before the kids wake up or you wait until the afternoon or evening to fit in your workout, your home is always there and so is whatever streaming method or app you like to use. I have tried so many times to wake up early, but I just can't seem to stay consistent with it so I exercise during my lunch break and/or as soon as I get off work.

Pause Button- Exercising with the kids around can be tough sometimes. One is calling for you to wipe her butt from the bathroom, the other is crying because she dropped a toy, and another is asking if he can go to his friends house. They all see your obviously busy, but kids will be kids. For the things that can't wait like diaper changes and toddler booboos, there is the magic pause button. Push pause, take a few minutes to do what you need to do, and come back. The workout won't go on without you and you won't miss a thing.

Judgement Free Zone- Going to the gym or taking a group class can be hectic and you may feel uncomfortable around others that may be more physically fit or advanced in the class. At home there is no judgement. You can go at your own pace and don't have to feel anxious about trying to keep up with others. As long as you stick with it you will get better and stronger every time! Don't feel discouraged if the trainer on the video does 25 reps and you only did 15. They can't see you and are just there to motivate you and keep you going. Write down your reps and push for more next time. Watch your progress and eventually you will be up there with the rest of them.

Several Options- There are so many apps and streaming options available. I love this because I can plan my workout based on my day and how I'm feeling physically. If I know I won't have time for a long workout because my son has a football game or we have dinner plans with friends, I can choose a workout that I can fit in during my lunch break or quickly after work. Or if I'm feeling drained and low energy I may want to do yoga or another light workout. Is the weather nice out and you don't want to stay indoors, there are plenty of apps for timing your run or incorporating some outdoor strength training. Here are some of the programs and apps that I recommend:

BeachBody On Demand- This is my personal favorite! There are so many choices. They offer high intensity workouts, strength training, pre and post-natal, dance, yoga, and more. If you don't like one, try another. Plus they also have nutrition guides and discounts on their Shakeology products.

5K Runner- This is similar to a couch to 5k app. If you have a goal to build your endurance, but haven't ran in who know how long this is a great app to help you get started. When I started using 5k Runner that first week of only running one minute at a time was brutal, but now it's a piece of cake. The app tracks your distance, maps your track, counts calories burned, and gives you little motivational shout outs during the run (you can turn that off if you're not into that).

You Tube- There are so many videos out there that can be streamed from the comfort of your home and You Tube is a free way to get access to fitness videos. Just search what you feel like doing that day and there's a video for it. I recommend looking into credentials of whoever the video is from though. You don't want to take fitness advice and workouts from someone that doesn't have the experience and knowledge that they should and could potentially cause your body more harm than good.

Map My Run- I'm a runner and love to join fun runs and 5k races when I can. This app helps me to track my time and maps the area I running in case I want to save the track for another run or share with my friends. The app will tell you when you have hit a mile and tell you your time and pace during the run making it easy to set goals and know how you should do next time. I love the motivation from seeing my other friends using the app and we cheer each other on when posting our run stats for the day.

Saves Money- Exercising at home means you don't have to spend the money on a gym membership, personal trainer, or the added childcare cost. Most apps and streaming methods are free. BeachBodyOnDemand is either $100 for a whole year or $10 per month. Much cheaper than a gym membership. Equipment is not always required and if there is a workout that you want to do that requires equipment, you usually have the option to purchase either from the video provider or anywhere they are sold. There are plenty of workouts that do not need any equipment and you still get amazing results.

Time Saver- The commute to the gym or class alone could be a reason you don't make it to the gym. You worked all day, then drive to the gym, change, exercise for 30 mins maybe an hour, change again, drive home and then do whatever else your night has in store. That's only if you don't also have to pick up the kids, drop them off at the kids center, and pick them up again. Exercising at home could cut off up to an hour of this time. You simply get home from work, get changed and pop on your video or app. When you are done, you're done. Already at home, can jump in the shower or get dinner started right away. You can do whatever you want with that extra time. My 4 year old is usually in daycare (before the quarantine-now shes home every day) until 6:30. I get off work at 4:30, can start exercising by 5:00, work out for 30 mins-1 hour depending on how I'm feeling, and then go pick her up or start dinner while my husband picks her up. I don't have the stress of running around. When I went to the gym, class didn't start until 5:30 so I had to rush from work to daycare, take her with me to the gym, then rush home after so we don't eat dinner at 10 pm.

Example to your loved ones- You are exercising at home. Your children see you, your spouse sees you, your friends may see you, the neighbors, anyone in the area close to you. Just doing this alone is motivation for them to live a fit life. My teenage son refuses to exercise with me, but he has started exercising at home on his own and has been motivated to be healthier. My 4 year old daughter will join in on workouts she noticing me doing that look fun like dancing and yoga. I tell her I'm exercising to be strong and healthy and now she goes around always talking about how she is strong and healthy because she exercised with mommy. It's a lifelong impression for the betterment of your children. They develop a healthy habit that will last with them in their future and go on to your grandchildren and theirs. Even if they don't want to jump in with you, you are still inspiring them to live a healthy and fit lifestyle just by them seeing you doing so and the benefits it has for you.

As a mom of 3 and also battling with lupus, exercising at home has been the very best thing for me. My schedule is managed better, it helps as a stress reliever, saves me time and money, and I can take better care of myself and my family. I feel great and have more energy. On days when I feel drained and fatigue is taking over, I can take a day of rest and my workout will still be there tomorrow waiting for me to press play. I won't miss a class and fall behind and I'm never running late. I stay motivated because my family sees my progress and how much it helps me and I cannot let them or myself down. I work on myself so I can be a better example and a better mom overall for my family. You can make your schedule any way that you would like. Start slow and build yourself up to where you want to be! It's all in the palm of your hands and in the comfort of your own home. You're already there, just jump up and get started!

[iamacolor]

Hey! I don't know if you accept prompts, but if you do could you write something about the first week after Yousef's return from Turkey... like what happens after Sana and Yousef were apart (even though they texted and video called each other) and the dynamics of their relationship once they're in the same city. I hope you decide to write it! Thank you in advance! 😊

Hello Anon!! Thank you very much for this prompt!! I was thinking of writing something like that so I was really glad to see your message! I got a bit carried away and wrote 6200 words so I really hope you like it! As it’s really long I advise peopel who prefer to read fics on Ao3 rather than on tumblr to check it out here

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[S :What time are you arriving at?Y :14:56. Why you planning on coming to pick me up from the airport? S :Elias said there no point since you’re with your family so you don’t need to be picked up Y :Awwww you asked Elias if you could pick me up?S :We talked I didn’t ask Y :Sure S :I hope you miss your plane Y :No you don’t S :No I don’t Y : ok I have to finish packing, have a good night Sana see you in Oslo! S :See you ]

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She stares as her screen for a while and smiles. He’ll be in Oslo tomorrow. After being apart for a month and a half, she was finally going to see him again. She was going to see him smile and laugh and hear his voice. For real not just on the phone. They had talked on the phone a few times. She has called him for a few of their calls, everytime afraid that he might be too busy to reply but he never was. Or if he was he never told her and always took the time to speak with her. They also video called each other and she’ll remember forever that one time all his little cousins arrived while he was talking and he had to do the rest of the call with them jumping on him. She couldn’t stop laughing, the kids seemed extremely proud of themselves and Yousef seemed to hesitate between being annoyed at the kids and looking at them foundly.

They had sent each other texts. So many texts. He sent her a picture everytime he saw something she might like or that he thought was pretty. Once in a while he would ask her if she was over Stephen Curry and she would reply with a link to one of Stephen’s picture saying « hmm I’m not sure ».

She decides to go to his house, the next day, in the afternoon. She asks Elias if he is going to visit Yousef to which Elias replies « Uh, no, I thought I’d see him tomorrow, the guy just came back. Let him chill » Then, he sees the way Sana is looking. All nervous but also excited and he adds :« Do you know what? I think I’ll go see him now. Yeah, he’s just came back but I’ll go say hi. Do you want to come with me? Don’t answer to that, I already know the answer. »She laughs and thanks him.

When they arrive at Yousef’s place, his father is the one to open the door and he greets them with a big smile. He makes them enter the apartment. Sana looks around, curious to finally see Yousef’s home. Yousef’s father calls for his son as he makes Sana and Elias go into the leaving room. A few seconds later, Yousef arrives in the living room. He sees Elias and smiles widely. A smile that grows wider and softer when he sees Sana standing next to his best friend. A smile that mirrors her own as she can finally see him again. Damn, she missed him and his stupid smile and his stupid snapbacks and even the way he walks. He crosses the living room to greet them when his parents suggest that Yousef and his friends should go outside while they finish unpacking. Sana follows the boy into the backyard, her heart beating fast as she can finally look at him after so long. He is talking with Elias on the way but often turns around to smile at her and she smiles back right away every time. Yousef holds the door open for his friend to come out and when Sana walks past him, he brushes her hand with his fingers and smiles at her softly.Once they are outside, Sana find herself at loss for words while Elias is asking Yousef questions. Yousef keeps looking at her and the simple fact of feeling his eyes on her after so long makes her feel like she is losing her mind. She doesn’t realize that she has locked eyes with Yousef until Elias says, a bit too loudly : « Ok, I’ll see you tomorrow ! I’ve done my brother duty, I’ll leave you two to it ! Bye ». And he walks away from them to leave the backyard.

« His brother duty ? What does he mean ? Asks Yousef- Well, I wanted to come here but I wasn’t sure if I should come or not and if I should, should I come alone or not, so in the end he came with me.- Never hesitate again Sana, you can come anytime.- Thanks- I’m serious Sana. Anytime. »If he says her name one more time, she’s not sure she’ll be able to contain the beating of her heart from going frantic. What is happening to her ?

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They are now standing in front of each other, smiling. Yousef can’t stop staring at her. Drinking in the vision of her in a blue hijab, dressed in white and grey. He feels as though he had been holding his breath all the time he was away and now that she is in front of him again, he can finally breathe.She laughs quietly and puts her hands under her chin and he can tell she is a little nervous.As he is about to say something funny, hopefully, to relax her, she takes a step towards him, looks up and let her arms fall to her sides. She raises them again slightly and he understands immediately what she is about to do. He raises his arms as well and, not even a second later, he can feel her hands coming around his waist and settling on his back. He never thought before her that you could tell so much with a hug. His hands are on her back and he rests his chin on top of her head. He can smell her perfume and he doesn’t think he ever felt as much as home as he does now. He sense her relaxing against his chest and presses a kiss on top of her head as if to say « I’m back for good, I’m here now. »

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After a while, Sana raises her head to look up at him and slightly takes a step back. There’s something about being near him, being with him, feeling him next to her, that makes her feel so giddy. She’s high on him and it has only been minutes !« I should probably let you unpack » she says right as he asks : « So where should we go ? »He exclaims : « You already want to leave me ? We haven’t seen each other for 50 days and you already want to leave ? A hug and bye.- No ! But your family surely need your help!I don’t want to leave, I’m trying to help you be a good son.- I’ve been a good son all summer, I can take a break. I am staying with you.- That’s good.- Yeah, that’s good.There is a little pause, then he adds :« - Ah, I missed you so much Sana !- I missed you a lot as well, Yousef.As she says that to him, she raises her hand to take a fallen leaf off his hair . She has been dreaming about touching his hair for so long. She marvels at the softness of his curls and keeps playing with it even when the leaf is long gone. He stays completely still and she wonders if her touch sends chills down her spine like his does to her . He closes his eyes with a tiny sigh and she has her answer. She whispers that if they want to do something, they should do it now . He seems to wake up from a dream and agrees with her.

They end up walking towards the basketball pitch. They don’t have a ball to play with as tehy realize when they arrive. They decide to stay there nonetheless. They don’t have to play basketball, they have so many things to talk about.Sana starts asking him questions about Turkey and what he did while he was there. She already knows many things as they’ve been in touch most of the time. But she doesn’t mind hearing some of it again and he adds more details and speaks about his family. He talks about the town where they live, Ankara. He tells Sana about the old castle that overlooks the city, about the beautiful great mosque with its huge that he is sure she would love. He remember going there as a kid and being in awe of the place. He tells her about all the food you can find and about the games he played with his little cousins and his trips to the country.

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Yousef feels a bit ashamed to have talked for so long about himself even if Sana doesn’t seem to mind as she asked questions and laughed and smiled. She genuinely seems happy to listen to him.He asks her about her summer and listens as she explains what she did with her firends and the troubles her squad got into. Her face lights up when she talks about her friends and their shenanigans. She also tells him a few stories about Elias that he cannot wait to use to make fun of his friend.After a while, Sana says that it’s too bad he is only coming back now because she starts school in a week and a half so they won’t have that much time to see each other again and she’ll be at school and that will be complicated. He laughs and replies :« I’ve only just come back and you’re already sad about what it’s going to be like in two weeks. Let’s enjoy what we have now first , shall we ?- Don’t make fun of me, she says with a smile- No but seriously, it’s going to be ok.How time flies, he thinks, looking back on the afternoon they spent on that pitch a few months ago. He could only have dreamed back then, of sitting in front of her while she talked about wanting to see him again in the coming weeks and months.

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Her phone rings and she answers right away as it is a call from her mother. Scared that she might be crossed because it’s getting late, Sana is surprised when her mother simply asks her if she intends on having dinner at home or eating out. She looks into Yousef’s eyes as she replies :« - I’m staying with Yousef Mama, we’ll eat together »His face lights up« - Can’t get enough of me, is that it ?- Shut up and find me a place to eat.- Yes Ma’am ! »She’s up before him and extends her hand to him to help him stand up. Just as he is about tto be fully standing, she lets go of his hand and laughs as he loses his balance and almost fall flat on his back. She can see him being a little bit shocked but before his ego can be hurt, her contagious laughter wins him over and she doesn’t have to wait long before he stops pouting and joins her.When they’ve calmed down, they decide to go to a kebab place not far from where they are.. While they wait to order, Yousef dares her to let him order for her. When she asks why on earth she should let him do that, he replies that he want to see if she still trusts him after all this time.“-All this time? You’ve only been gone 50 days Yousef.- Only? Only?! Wow. Only 50 days. Ok. Here I was thinking you had missed me but I see that I was wrong. I’ll leave you there if you don’t mind, I have an ego to repair and it might take some time.She is laughing too much to chase after him as he dramatically leaves the restaurant. She knows he will be back soon so when her time to order comes up next, she orders for him as well and goes to sit at a table in a corner. After a few seconds, she hears footsteps behind her and hears a voice saying:“- You didn’t even come after me. You didn’t even look outside the restaurant. I am hurt.- You didn’t even wait 5 minutes to come back.She turns around to face Yousef and his sad pout.- Seems like you’re the one who can’t get enough of me- No lies there, he replies as he sits down in front of herHis confession, which could barely pass as a joke, makes her blush which he notices right away. Of course.- Did I make you blush? Did I manage that? You’re flustered because of me!- Well you can talk! Go back and rewatch that video where you receive my call, you couldn’t even it or stand still!- We will not speak about that video again, he says in a mock-threatening way- Too bad, I thought you were cute in it.Before he has time to react, their orders arrive and he can only try to hide his own blush to the waiter.

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When they leave the restaurant, they naturally head towards Sana’ home. He doesn’t even ask if he can walk her home, he wants to spend as much time as possible with her. On the way back, they walk in silence. Their fingers brushing slightly, their eyes meeting regularly and their lips curving into smiles. Yousef thinks that he could walk to the end of the world with Sana by his side. He’s lost in her smiles and her dimples and her twinkling yes when he suddenly hears a sound similar to the flapping of wings next to him. He turns around with a slight jump and shrieks when he sees a huge seagull next to him, he steps back with fear and a loud “Oooh!!”. He doesn’t even have time to process his fear and what happened that Sana is already bent in two exploding with laughter.

There goes my walk to the end of the earth with her, he thinks as he tries to calm his heart.Unable to stop herself from laughing, Sana asks:“- Are you afraid of everything with wings or only seagulls and swans?- Hey! Swans are really scary ok? They can become violent and bite my fingers. And this seagull just surprised me , that’s all-Uh uh, sure, is all she can reply as she tries to regain her breath- It was huge Sana! And it landed right next to me!- It’s alright, you don’t have to be tough with me. Don’t hide your fear of birds. I accept you just as you are.- I am not afraid of birds- It’s ok, Yousef, I don’t judge you- Stop it- When did it start? I am genuinely curious. Were you attacked by a pigeon as a child?- Stop, I am hurtShe does stop teasing him but she doesn’t stop laughing qiuetly until they reach her door. He doesn’t mind the teasing. He doesn’t mind anything that come from Sana Bakkoush laughing.She turns around to face him and smiles. He smiles back and for a moment, they just stand there looking at each other.

Once again, they don’t need words to speak. Eyes do just fine. Eyes can say many things. They can say “I’m glad to be with you”. They can say “I wish we could stay together longer”. I can’t wait to see you again. I missed you. I am so happy to be near you. I wish I didn’t have to go back inside. I wish we could stay like this forever. I think you’re beautiful. I believe you’re the best thing that happened to me.Eyes can say I like you. They can even say more than that.

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Sana takes one step closer to him and says“Goodbye Yousef”He takes one step closer to her-“Goodbye Sana”They are almost touching nowShe brushes a curls away from his eyes and adds: “Goodnight”He seems starstruck for a second and before he has time to react, she is walking to the door. She looks back at him. He seems to be at loss for words and just smiles at her. She chuckles and waves at him before opening the door.Once she is back inside her room, she leans with her back to the door and whispers in the darkness and quiet of her room: “Be still my beating heart.”

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He gets distracted by her the next day when he is filming a video with the boys at Sana’s house to celebrate his return. He sees her moving round and he can’t concentrate on what the boys are saying which means he misses a lot of questions and gets teased a lot. The hardest part for him is when, after she catches up on what is happening, she comes and stands up right there in the door, in front of him. She isn’t just looking at him, he can see her laughing at what the boys are saying. But she’s so beautiful and he hasn’t seen her for so long (when you’ve been away from San Bakkoush for 50 days, an evening together is not enough to make up for lost time) that he feels like if he turns around she might disappear. He hears Elias telling the camera to excuse Yousef for being distracted as his sister is standing in front of them right now and the poor boy is so in love he can’t get his eyes away from her.

Sana laughs at that, announces that she is going back in her room and leaves. Yousef sighs and hopes she’ll come out before he leaves. He tries to focus on the video as if nothing happened but the boys do not stop teasing him and he suspects that they never will. He doesn’t mind really. Not when he is being teased about something that makes him so happy.

When they’ve finished filming their video, he sends her a text asking to come to the kitchen. He waits for her as he drinks juice. The boys are busy checking something with the camera so he hopes he can have a bit of time alone with her. He doesn’t notice her coming inside the room as he’s observing the boys. He hears a soft voice behind him saying:“-“Meet me in the kitchen”. I don’t know if I’ve told you before but I don’t really like people who think they can summon me whenever they want.”He turns around but she is smiling at him and he immediately feels better. He asks her if she slept well and she says that of course she did. She had troubles falling asleep as she was busy thinking about things but when she did fell asleep, it was very nice. He can guess by her smile that she couldn’t sleep because she was thinking about him. And he can’t think of a better feeling than being the one keeping Sana Bakkoush awake. Well, when it’s for good reasons and not when she is sick of course.- So you had a good evening then?- I had a great evening Yousef.- Good- GoodHe hears the boys calling him and she does as well so she tells him that she’ll see him again soon and goes back t her room before his friends have time to see her.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

And that’s how it goes on. They meet often, to walk around town, to eat together, to play basketball. Sometimes, they plan it. Sometimes it is random. Just a text or a call. “Are you doing anything right now?” “I’m meeting you I suppose?” “And you’re right”.Sometimes, it just happens that at the moment when Sana has to leave her home, Yousef has to go back home . Obviously, they don’t have anyone else to met except each other.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

One day, after spending the afternoon in town eating ice cream and fooling around as well as going to buy a present for Yousef’s mother’s birthday, as they are walking down the streets, they walk pass and open window form which a music can be heard. The song is one that Yousef likes a lot. Sana asks him what kind of songs he likes and they start talking about music. He takes his phone and headphones out to make her listen to his playlist. They keep on walking as they listen to the music.

At first, it starts as simply listening to the music and telling the other what they think about the song they’re listening to, but it soon turns into a sort of game. Yousef tries to make Sana lose her headphone by walking faster or distancing himself from her. When she understands what he is doing, she starts playing the same game. In the end, they don’t really listen to the music as they are too busy laughing.

At one point, Yousef almost walks into a pole, but he avoids it by making a slightly twisted jump that looks like a dance move to Sana. It makes her laugh, but at the same time it reminds her of that time she found him dancing in her living room. She’d like to see him dance again. She only realizes she said it out loud when he replies with surprise :- Really?- Uh well, you’re a good dancer and it just that it kind of looked like you were dancing when you avoided that pole and so it reminded me that you’re a dancer.- Haha, thank you Sana! Dancer might be a bit much though.If you want to see me again you’ll have to invite me to a party!

Before she has time to reply, her phone rings with the call to prayer. She hasn’t seen time running out.- Oh, we have to find you a place to pray!- What?She expected him to tell her that he would walk her home as they weren’t that far from her house.- Yes, we find you a place to pray so you don’t have to go back home right away.She smiles at his obvious desire to spend more time with her. They find a small little garden at the end of the street and, as she’s looking on her phone for the right orientation, she sees him taking his jacket off. When she asks him what he is doing, he replies ,as if it is obvious, that he is going to give her his jacket for her to pray on.- Really?- Well, you need something to pray on and you can’t use your own cardigan, it’s too delicate to put it on the ground.She hesitates but he’s already putting his jacket in her hand and walking away to give her space and peace.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

He waits for her to finish, making sure that no one walks over to where she is.He slightly turns around to see Sana kneeling down and putting her forehead on the ground. On his jacket. He laughs to himself as he thinks of all these romantic comedies showing a boy giving his jacket to a girl when she’s cold. Here he is giving Sana his jacket to pray on. She probably wouldn’t accept his jacket even if she it was really cold. We’re a strange pair,he thinks, we’re one of a kind. She is one of a kind.She comes back when she has finished and hands him back his jacket neatly folded and he can see in her eyes that she is filled with a new kind of emotion. Seeing her so strong in her faith, he feels a sort of pride at the thought that this girl thinks he is good enough for her. Her faith is so beautiful, it shines through her. And it only makes him love her even more to see her so dedicated. She takes her phone out and tells him that it is now turn to listen to her playlist so she can teach him about real music.- “Real music? You seemed to enjoy my “fake” music before.- I didn’t hate it but wait until you listen to what I listen to. You are going to get your mind blown.

Instead of walking around, they sit on the grass and after a while he has to admit that her taste in music is indeed remarkable. The evening goes on until it’s time to go back home. As usual, he walks her back. And as usual, they stops in front of her door smiling at each other, staying silent for a little bit.- “I’ll send you a song to listen to before you go to bed when you’re inside.- Can’t you just tell me what it is now?- No, it’s a surprise!- Well I better hurry then, so I can listen to it.”

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

When she has taken her hijab off and changed into her pajamas, she receives a link from Yousef to a 4 hours long track of lullabies with a simple messag that says “Sleep well”.A few seconds later, as she is till laughing, he sends her text with a link to Roo Panes’s Lullaby Love saying “The one before is really serious music but you should still listen to this one.”And she listens to it on repeat until she falls asleep dreaming of a sweet boy singing her a song about angels and love.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

One Saturday, Sana and the girls are wandering around in a park and laughing as they are enjoying the last weekend before school. They decide to settle on the grass near a fountain when Sana, who’s laughing with Chris, hears Vilde asking her-”Sana, isn’t that your brother with his friends?She turns in the direction Vilde is pointing at and ,indeed, here is her brother with Adam, Mutta, Mikael and…- “Oh, Yousef is here as well!”

Sana is now thinking back to the conversation she had with Elias this morning. He asked her if she would be at home all day as he was planning on shooting a new video with the boys. She had told him she had plans with the girls and would be out all day. He had been insistent and asked her where she would be. When she told him she didn’t know exactly what they were going to do, he replied:- “Come on Sana, you always have at least an idea of where you’re going!- OK, we’re thinking of going to the park .- Which park?- The one near Chris’s house.- Great! Great idea!- Why are you so interested?- I’m paying attention, you should be thankful .- Yeah, right. “

Now she understands that he was planning on surprising her and meeting her “by luck” with his friends. She takes the lead as they walk towards the group of boys.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Yousef is sitting next to Mutta, his eyes semi closed, enjoying the sun on his face, not really listening to whatever Elias and Mikael are arguing about. He feels Mutta nudging his side and without opening his eyes, asks:“- What is it?”- Look! “

He finally opens his eyes and follows the direction Mutta is pointing at to see something he did not expect at all. Someone actually. Sana. Sana and her friends. He sits up right away. What is she doing here? She told him she couldn’t see him today because she was with her friends and now she’s walking towards him and the boys. With her 4 friends on both sides of her, he thinks she looks like a princess in company of her ladies in waiting. Her stride is assured and she’s walking straight to Elias. After slightly glancing his way and smiling at him (a smile that he did not return like a lost puppy seeing his master again whatever Mutta might say in his ear), she stops in front of her brother who looks at her with a smile that Yousef can only qualify as trying to be innocent.

“-"I’m paying attention, you should be thankful”, she says with an exaggerated tone- Hello sister! And sister’s friends!- Hello Elias!- Hello boys!- What a coincidence! What are the odds of you going to the same park I mentioned going to this morning?- Indeed sister what are the odds?”Yousef starts to understand what is going on- “So that’s why you insisted on us going outside when we arrived at your place? You wanted us to meet Sana? He asks Elias- Aren’t you happy to see Sana? asks Mikael with a smile- What a stupid question, of course I am! I am just wondering why Elias set this up.- Seems to me like he wanted to see the two of you together, says Sana’s friend, Eva, pointing at Sana and then at him.-What?? Sana and Yousef turn to Elias at the same time- You are two of my favourite peope why would I not want to see you at the same time?- Stop the bullshit, Elias- Sana can you really blame us for wanting to see you and Yousef together? Asks mikael.- We wanted to see the cuteness and tease the two of you. So get ready, says Mutta- I like your brother’s friend Sana, says Chris- Really? Cool! Mutta stands up to high five Chris- Well, now that we are together, we should do something together! Exclaims Sana’s friend Vilde. Let’s go buy an ice cream!Everyone agrees without waiting for Sana or Yousef to give their opinion and the group starts walking away from the fountain.

He goes up to Sana to assure her that he had no idea about Elias’ plan to reunite them.-“It’s alright Yousef, I don’t mind- It’s just that you were enjoying your time with your friends so…- I’m starting school on Monday, which means I’ll see them everyday.It’s ok if you distract me a little from them.- Good!“

He tries to stays next to Sana as they walk but he is soon forced to stay with Sana’s friend as they apparently need to tell him something really important. Turns out they simply want to know how it’s going between him and Sana. They don’t seem really noisy. More concerned and curious that everything is going well for their friend. Eva asks him about his feelings for her wondering how long he has been crushing on her- Uh, I’m not sure I can tell you that;- Oh come on ! We won’t tell her, we promise! Says Vilde- Why should I trust you?- Hey, we are her friends ! Says Chris- We are really happy that you two are happening, it’s so nice to see Sana smiling so much and being happy! You two are made for each other!- That’s why they’re soulmates Eva! Says Vilde- Soulmates?Did he hear that right?- Did Sana say that?- Uh no, you did, replies Eva- What? I never told her…Wait a minute, Noora!He turns to face the girl who apparently told everyone his secret.- You told them?- No she told Sana! Replies Vilde- Ok, says Noora, don’t freak out, but yes she knows you texted me and she knows what you said.- You told her about the texts??Yousef doesn’t think he ever felt as embarrassed as he does now. Freaking about about a swan or a seagull in front of Sana is nothing compared to this- Well, I showed them to her actually.- So she has read every single one of them?- Yes but don’t worry Yousef they were all super cute!! exclaims Vilde- But still… What do I look like now?- Well, she is still talking to you so that’s what matters! Says ChrisHe looks in front of him at Sana who is laughing at one of Mutta’s joke. So she knows. She knows the extent of his feelings for her and instead of running away because of how strong they are (the only reason why he hasn’t told her yet), she is still there. Which means there’s a chance her feelings for him might be as strong as his for her and he suddenly feels as though he could fly.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

On Monday, Sana is starting school again for her last year of high school. Chris told her she would pick her up before heading to school so they could meet the girls and arrive together to mark the occasion. She is excited at the prospect of it being her last year but she also knows that this year is going to be hard and will demand her full investment.

She steps out of the building but instead of finding Chris waiting for her at the door, she finds Yousef . She stops in her tracks. What on earth is he doing here?- Hello Sana! Ready to start school?- Hi! Are you meeting with Elias?- This early? I’m here for you.- For me?- Yeah, I thought you might like me to walk you to school as it’s the first day and everything.She would love that but she can’t let the girls down, she knows it means a lot to them that they start the year together.- I am sorry Yousef but… Chris should be here any minute now, I’m meeting the girls before going to school. But I would’ve loved to go to school with you! I just have other plans.- Do you really?- Yes, I told you, the girls…At this moment, her phone signals her that she has a new text. It’s from the girls’ group chat, a message from Chris saying “Enjoy your surprise, we’ll meet you in front of the school!”.- Wait, they organized this?- Actually, I wanted to do it so I thought I’d check with them at what time you start and if you usually walked to school with one of them and they came up with the idea to make you believe that Chris would pick you up. Are you happy?- I am…, she can’t finish her sentence as she is smiling too wide. I am really happy Yousef!

She immediately sends a text to the girls: “THANK YOU”. Once she has put her phone in her pocket, she looks up at Yousef and hugs him slightly. He is surprised at first but hugs her back and laughs. She is trying to not show how giddy she feels at the thought of walking to school with him. This is so official. People are going to see them together. People of her school, that she doesn’t know will know about one of the most precious thing in her life. And she doesn’t really mind right now!On the way to school, he makes her laugh with stories about Elias and the boys in high school. When they arrive near the school, she can see the girls looking at them from afar and waving at her. She is excited to start school but at the same time she wishes that it didn’t start so early so she could spend a little bit longer with Yousef.-Thank you for walking with me this morning.- Thank you for agreeing to walk with me.- Well, I couldn’t say no after all the efforts the girls had put into it, could I ?- Ouch Sana!- Did you think I actually enjoyed your company?- Pretend all you want, I know you do! Have a good first day of school Sana, I hope you only get the best teachers.- I have a feeling that won’t happen but thank you. It was very nice this morning.- Likewise- Bye then!As she turns around, he grabs her hand and says:- Just want to ask you something, it won’t take long- What is it?- Are you over Stephen Curry now?- I was not expecting that! She laughs- Hey I just want to know who you’re going to marry, that’s all!- Well, know this: I’ve been over him for a long time now. A few months I’d say.As he gets the biggest smile on his face, she leaves him to meet her friends.

[ratcourtjester]

I don't know if you're still in the writing mood but here's a prompt if you're up for it: clark non-explicitly asking bruce out in the middle of conversations and never being taken seriously

(AN: I’m sorry this took a little longer, I’ve been working more days lately and there is a couple days between me writing the beginning of this and the end if things seem a little wonky. I hope you like it either way)

“He has to know right? I mean, it’s Batman.”

“Let it go, Bear.” Hal said not looking up from his magazine. The two were supposed to be on monitor duty, but the Lantern normal took this time to relax and maybe catch up on some sleep if he was partnered with someone reliable and there were very few more reliable than Flash. Except apparently when there was drama afoot.

“I can’t just let it go.” Barry sighed but reluctantly turned back to the monitors, far used to his friend’s routine. Between Justice League missions and Green Lantern duties, he couldn’t really complain if the guy fell asleep while working. Much. “It’s like watching someone slip on something in slow motion. It’s too late to warn them and you know it’s going to end in disaster.”

Hal snorted but didn’t object to the hyperbole. Of course Batman had to see it, they all had. It had been going on for months. Hell, maybe even years considering the two had known each other for far longer than the rest of them had.

Then again, he thought, glancing up towards where Batman and Superman were huddled over the plans for the Watchtower renovations. The guy does have the emotionally intelligence of a potato.

Supes was standing shoulder to shoulder with the Bat, a proximity that seemed only to be reserved for him, Diana and his forty friggin kids. The aforementioned Bat’s shoulders weren’t as tense as they normally were. If it was anyone else, Hal would have just narrowed it down to the years of familiarity they had on the rest of them, but the Lantern had only seen that particular extent of relaxation around the other man’s fifty-seven bat kids. Hal shook his head, turning back to his magazine and taking his own advice, letting it go.

“We need to fix the water pressure in the en-suite showers, but that can wait.” Bruce said, lens covered eyes scanning the plans as Clark nodded along. “It’s the satellite that needs immediate attention.”

“Did you see that new restaurant by the Planet earlier?” Clark asked as his friend lapsed into brief silence, most likely doing calculations in his head.

“I did. That meteor shower on Monday caused more damage than J’onn and I anticipated. Some of the panels will need to be replaced.”“Well that’s probably because I needed to destroy an asteroid to make it a meteor shower. We should go there for lunch tomorrow instead of the diner.”

“Rosanne would stop giving you that free cheesecake if she found out we skipped out on the usual place. I can get new panels, but it might take a couple days.”

“I can loop around the planet a couple times every day until we get them. And okay, that’s fair.” Clark chuckled, thinking of the older waitress that normally took his and Bruce’s order whenever the former was in Metropolis. “Well how about we go there for dinner?” He suggested albeit hopefully.

“Can’t. Charity dinner. One that you’re covering.” Bruce hummed without missing a beat. “That’s impractical even for you, Superman. There might be a way I can get them as early as tonight, might have to involve Malone though.”

“Oh. Right, day job.” His shoulder’s sagged only the slightest bit and he raised a half amused eyebrow. “Malone has those kind of connections?”

“You’d be surprised. I’ll make the arrangements for after the dinner later. If I can get them, you’re going to have to do the heavy lifting.”

“Yeah, I can do that, B.”

He has to know. Dick thought watching Bruce and Clark crowd the monitor (Batcomputer as Nightwing had mentally dubbed it) looking over the results of the tests Bruce had ran on a strange metallic object that Clark had ‘ran into’ during one of his most recent battles. Clark’s hand rested on the top of the computer chair as he leaned forward for a ‘better look at the screen’, invading Bruce’s personal space. Rather than objecting to the proximity, B didn’t even seem to notice it. Which Dick knew was bullshit since his father figure was aware of almost everything in his environment. He was sure Clark was aware of this as well.

It was a familiar routine, one that Dick could trace back to his Robin days, when Clark and Bruce first began their uneasy truce that surcame to years of true friendship. Of course, back then he hadn’t been totally aware that Superman had been flirting with his guardian. Not until Jason had taken up the Robin mantle at least. He shook his head. At this point he wasn’t sure if Bruce was toying with the other man or if this had actually managed to evade the Batman’s noticed. Which he seriously doubted. The pattern was always the same; they did some actual work for a few hours, standing or working closer to each other than strictly necessary, then Clark would bring up a movie he was thinking about seeing (this week was the new King Kong movie, go figure) or a concert or restaurant he wanted to go check out and would casually invite Bruce along, only for it to go over the Bat’s head.

The worst part was, Dick knew Bruce was interested. He knew Bruce better than the older man knew himself sometimes. They all saw the softness in his eyes when it came to Clark, the inside jokes, the way the Man of Steel could just ‘pop by’ without getting the whole ‘my city’ speech (most of the time) anymore. So it baffled the eldest child a little. He didn’t know why he toyed with the other man like that. Maybe he decided he would lose interest, maybe he had somehow convinced himself that he was somehow a danger to the indestructible man like he had most people in his life. Maybe he convinced himself that relationships themselves were too dangerous, too distracting from his work.

Maybe, Dick thought as he watched Bruce’s lips twitch a little at some corny joke Clark had made before falling back into their neutral scowl. He thinks he’s the one being toyed with.

He shook his head and headed upstairs for something to eat, ruffling Damian’s hair as he passed him on the stairs.

“Try not to be as hopeless as them when you get older, okay?” He muttered, smirking at the confused look he got as he walked away.

Clark yawned and stretched, pushing up his glasses to rub at his eyes. Alien or not, staring at his computer screen for six straight hours had done nothing good to his eyes, or his back for that matter.

“So, even Superman gets uncomfortable in cheap office chairs.” He looked up in brief panic before his brain registered the voice. The shadows of the empty bullpen seemed to naturally surround Bruce, even when his Batsuit was traded for a nice Armani one. His lips were quirked in a small, amused smile as he approached his desk as he had many times before. “The job of an investigative journalist is never done I see.”

“Unfortunately not.” Clark chuckled, leaning back in the chair to better look up at him better. “To what do I owe the pleasure, Mr. Wayne?” He asked with a bit of a teasing grin. Bruce said nothing, just studying his face with those calculating blue eyes in a way that always made Clark want to squirm. Of course, if he did, that mean Bruce won. It became a game at some point, though he couldn’t say when, one he was almost sure he wouldn’t win. There was no winning with the Bat. He had even resigned to stop his advances, forfeit the game. He was content with being friends, that would be enough for him.

Of course with Bruce, it wasn’t that simple. Because, like most things with the Bat, the moment Clark thought he was out, Bruce changed the rules. The billionaire leaned down and pressed his lips against the reporter’s, who responded to the long dreamt about kiss immediately, cradling the back of his head, afraid it would end just as suddenly. When Bruce did pull away, he was smirking.

“Come on, you owe me dinner.”