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potatoplace · 1 month ago

Text

I Look in People's Windows

Cassian x Archeron!Reader (unrequited)

The Afterthought: Chapter 1 | series masterlist

part 2 | ACOTAR x reader masterlist

Story Summary: You are the youngest Archeron sister, saved from the fate of the Cauldron by mere chance. Perhaps having been dumped in those murky waters would have been a better fate for you, when it seems that no one cares for your presence any longer.

Warnings: slut shaming, shitty inner circle (mostly Nesta and Elain), suicidal ideation

Words: ~ 4.2k

Author's Note: ahhhhh I hope you guys like this! I'm really hoping all of this makes sense lol I wrote it in one go. This idea came to me at work and you guys have already shown just the ideaaaa so much love 🫶 enjoy! I'm gonna go listen to Rosie by Rosé nowww -- let me know if you guys want a part two!

18+ only pls

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Gone.

They were gone.

You had been out at the Reeson's home, being courted by their youngest son, Geoffrey. He was very polite, and even walked you back to the manor, your arms clasped together.

If you had to choose a suitor from the village you grew up in, Geoffrey would be the one. He was kind to you and your family, even in the depths of poverty.

It wasn't until you were in the manor, the door swinging shut behind you after you had bid Geoffrey farewell, that you saw it.

The carnage.

Every single maid and butler that you family employed... Slaughtered. Your father was already away on business, having gone to the Continent to meet with the Queens about the looming threat above the wall.

And your sisters... Nesta and Elain... Were missing.

You sprinted out of the manor after checking every room for your siblings, the hem of your pink gown soaked in blood, and ran to the inn in the center of town.

Thankfully the innkeep was kind enough to rent you a room on credit while the men of the night watch removed the bodies, burying them in the village graveyard.

Only a few days later, you were back in the manor, scrubbing every tile, panel, and piece of furniture to rid them of the horrors spilled upon them.

Your sisters were still missing. You had no idea of where they could be taken, besides over the wall, into the land of the fae.

But why? That's what you couldn't understand.

Not until three months later.

Three months later, you opened the door to the manor, met face to face with your youngest sister.

"Feyre!" You exclaimed, pulling her into a hug. She was stiff in your arms, pulling away only a moment later.

Fair enough, you thought. It has been quite a while since I last had the chance to hug her, her new senses may make them less comfortable.

"I was so worried, Nesta and Elain have been missing for months and the entire household staff was- was-" you sobbed, putting your face in your hands.

"Oh, Y/N, it's alright. Nesta and Elain are alive and safe," Feyre reassured you, gentle hands holding your shoulders as the knowledge of their safety calmed you. "But..."

"But...?" You asked, worry washing over you once more.

"I... Really, you should come with me and see for yourself..." Feyre trailed off. "Come to Velaris with me?"

You nodded immediately- if that's where your other sisters are and where Feyre is going, of course you would go. "Take me to them, please."

In the next moment, you were whipping through the fabric of reality, landing in a cozy sitting room.

Nesta and Elain were seated on the couch next to each other, Elain gazing out the window with a dazed look, and Nesta reading a novel of some kind, before her eyes snapped up to see the two of you.

Her eyes narrowed at you, filled with a silvery fire and so much hatred that you could hardly breathe-

Not human.

Fae.

Your other two sisters... are fae.

You blinked in confusion, looking to Feyre for answers.

"Nesta and Elain were... They were taken by Hybern and changed using the Cauldron, Y/N," Feyre whispered into your mind as she guided you out of the sitting room and into a kitchen, and you flinched at the sensation.

"I don't understand, Fey. What... When did all of this happen? What happened?"

Feyre sighed as she sat you at the dining table and began preparing tea. "The war that we warned you about the last time we visited? It happened... And the people we fought against used Nesta and Elain to prove the power of the Cauldron to the Mortal Queens by giving them the gift of being fae. And over the past three months, we fought long, arduous battles- but we prevailed. Elain and Nesta killed their vile king together after-" Feyre paused. "After he killed father."

Your eyes went wide and the world seemed to come to a stopping point-

"Father is-" a choked sob cut you off, tears streaming down your face. "He's dead?"

Feyre nodded, and you collapsed onto the table, sobbing.

You knew that your sisters didn't care much for your father- always saw him as a failure after losing the family's fortune. But you? You had loved him completely, clinging to the one parent that you had the blessing to know. You were so young when your mother passed, not even six years old when illness took her. You hadn't remembered much of the life of luxury the family used to lead, and were content to live in the small hut on the edge of the village, tending to your little herb garden and cooking the meals after Elain had taught you.

And so, you hadn't had the feelings of resentment that your elder sisters had towards him, instead loving each wooden carving your father would make you every year for your birthday.

They even made it into the manor, resting on your bedside table in your room.

And... And now he's dead? Just like that?

You had no idea how much time had passed when Feyre's hand smoothed over your upper back, a small gesture of comfort.

"Let me show you to your room, Y/N," Feyre said gently, her strong arms peeling you off of the table and into an upright position.

You blinked your watery eyes at her and nodded, and let your sister lead you upstairs and into a small bedroom, decorated in pale blues.

You didn't even have the energy to change out of your dress before you collapsed onto the bed into a crying heap, curling in on yourself as you mourned for the father you would never get to see again, never get to say goodbye to.

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The next few months were... Trying, to say the least.

You felt out of place.

At all times. In any setting. Even just sitting with Feyre, you felt like you didn't belong.

It's not that you didn't try to fit in.

You joined Feyre for physical training. There, you felt like you were holding her back- no, you knew you were holding her back. After all, you're only a human.

You brought Elain tea and food at regular intervals, trying to keep her strength up as she stared out the window, lost in her thoughts. You knew she could talk, she just... chose not to with you. That's fine, after all, you can't relate to her situation much. She most likely wants a more understanding ear.

You attempted to talk with Nesta, even sit in the same space at her. But with each time you tried, her fiery gaze grew more and more intense, until you felt she may actually burn you alive with the powers Feyre had informed you she now possessed.

It's not that the inner circle wasn't kind to you, or that they mocked you for your human-ness.

It's that at every moment, you felt different.

When you had your first cycle while living amongst fae, you had went about it as normal. Until breakfast that morning.

Nesta had been glaring at you particularly strongly that morning, until she finally broke. "Why don't you take your iron-scented self upstairs until we finish eating, hmm? I'd rather not feel ill while having breakfast," she snipped at you, her eyes widening in delight when you blushed profusely.

You had excused yourself immediately.

Feyre had explained it away later, telling you that feelings are amplified when you're turned fae.

Nesta never was too fond of you, as she had always blamed you for your mother's death and the subsequent loss of the family fortune. She thought that having you just under a year after having Feyre was what made her body susceptible to the diseases and illnesses running rampant in the village that fateful year.

It's not as though I chose to be born so soon...

Worse even than knowing that everyone around you could smell when your cycle hit... was their hearing.

You had... a small crush on Cassian, to say the least.

It had all started when he was kind to you one day at training, having taken over for Feyre while she was away for court business. He corrected your form gently, giving pointers for how to protect yourself better from blows.

Each gentle touch made your heart race, and the kind praise he gave you made your face flush.

It's not that you wanted to like him.

You couldn't help it.

He was so handsome and kind, and could always find a way to make you laugh, or at least smile. And he chose to talk to you, which was more than you could say for the rest of the inner circle.

On the first Winter Solstice you spent in Velaris, Feyre came into your room before breakfast.

"I wanted to talk to you..." Feyre started gently, sitting down on your bed next to you while you braided your hair.

"About what?" You asked, tying off the braid and turning to face your sister.

"Cassian."

Your cheeks heated in an instant, pulse quickening just at the mention of his name. "What about him?"

"I know that... I know you have a crush, Y/N, but you need to let it go," Feyre said softly, a careful hand placed on your arm.

"I- so what if I like him? It's not like I'm acting on it-"

"That's not what it's about, Y/N, it's that he and Nesta are mates," Feyre explained.

Mates?

"Oh, I-" you paused, a renewed sense of heat filling your face. "I don't even really like him like that, Fey, I just... I can't help how I react around him," you whispered, hoping beyond hope that no one else was listening in.

"Just try, okay? It's for the best, really, Y/N. Fae and humans aren't really... Meant to be," Feyre said, eyes looking away from you.

Oh. Of course. You're just a little human, of course a fae wouldn't be interested in you...

So you did. You did your absolute best to get over your reactions to Cassian, to stuff any possible feelings down, down, down.

Nothing was enough, though. Not even knowing that Cassian and Nesta were gone for an entire week, consummating the mating bond.

When they returned, you were sitting in the living room of the River House, staring into the fire and drinking a cup of tea.

That was the one activity you did that bothered no one.

But the moment you saw Cassian's handsome face, a soft smile on it thrown your way, your heartbeat picked up, color rushing to your cheeks.

Nesta heard it- of course Nesta would pick out its traitorous rhythm, her eyes narrowing at you, hands raised, silver flames spouting from them, pointed at you-

"Nesta," Cassian sighed, grabbing your sister by the forearms and pulling her attention to him. "Nesta, my love, only you matter to me. Pay her no mind," Cassian soothed, and the flames Nesta had conjured went out, though the fire in her eyes burned hotter than ever as she glared at you.

"Stay away from him, you little whore," Nesta hissed at you before pulling Cassian out of the room and into the kitchen, where the rest of your family was gathered.

You simply pulled your legs up onto the couch in front of you, wrapping your arms around them as you went back to gazing into the fire.

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The Spring Equinox came and went, bringing with it the return of Lucien, Elain's mate and Feyre's dear friend.

You were like a ghost these days, drifting down hallways with no destination in mind, just the desire to not bother anyone further.

You excused yourself from all family dinners beyond those you were expected to attend around holidays, thinking it would be easier to bear than the constant feeling of not belonging.

It wasn't.

But it was preferable to the burning weight of Nesta's hatred, and Elain's new distaste for you.

Training with Feyre had stopped months ago, her schedule becoming more hectic as she let Rhys pass some of the burdens of ruling off to her shoulders.

That was fine. You just wanted Feyre to succeed.

So you drifted around aimlessly, sometimes leaving the River House to walk along the Sidra and gaze longingly at couples in tea houses, or meandering through bookstores, running your fingers along the spines and wishing you could read one.

You found yourself back in front of the fireplace on a particularly warm spring day, sipping a cup of tea once again. You would have preferred to take it outside, but Elain was out tending her garden, and you didn't want to bother the one bit of peace she seemed to have.

Not that she was alone, anyways, but your presence always seemed to grate on people's nerves, making them less comfortable.

Lucien was out with her, offering to help her garden as he did every day he stopped by. By now he might have already presented her with whichever courting gift he had picked for her today.

Loud footsteps and then-

Lucien.

He gave you a soft smile, one that you returned.

"How are you today, Y/N?" Lucien asked, as he had taken to doing the last few visits.

"I'm well, thank you Lucien. How are you? Any luck with Elain?"

"No luck with the gardening, though today she accepted my courting gift: a bag of flower bulbs from the Day Court," Lucien said with a proud smile.

"Congratulations! Now you know what will get you into her heart," you said with a grin, truly happy for the male in front of you. "Would you like a cup of tea?"

"Thank you, Y/N, I would love one," Lucien replied, summoning a cup of his own and letting you pour out a helping of the lovely floral blend you had made into it. "I hope she will be open to pursuing the mating bond, or at the very least being friends..." He sighed. "What do you think?"

You blinked at him, surprised. "Me?"

"Yes, you," Lucien said playfully. "You are my mate's sister after all."

"Oh, well... I don't... We don't really talk much anymore," you explained. "I'm sorry."

Lucien merely shook his head at your apology. "No, don't apologize, Y/N, I was just hoping you may have more insight than I do. But enough about me, what have you been up to recently?"

"Oh, not much," you replied, wracking your brain for any activities you had done recently to not seem more useless than you already are. "I, uhm... I tried out a new soup recipe a few days ago, everyone seemed to like it..."

"Really? What kind?" Lucien asked, and you could almost believe that he was interested.

"It was a creamy soup, with sausage, potatoes, and-"

"What are you doing?!" Elain hissed, a pair of pruning shears pointed in your direction. "First you go after Nesta's mate, and now mine?" She seethed, stalking towards the two of you. Elain walked past Lucien and held the shears up to your face. "Get out, you whore. Stay away from my mate!"

You were up in an instant, flying up the stairs and into your bedroom. You locked the door behind you, but you knew that if Elain wanted to get in, she could.

She would probably cut my head off with the shears...

You grabbed a spare blanket off of the chair in your room, as well as a pillow from your bed and made your way into the bathroom, where you curled into yourself in the bathtub.

No reason to make more of a mess when she does decide to kill you...

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Seven months.

Seven months and no one noticed that you had completely withdrawn, only leaving your bedroom when you absolutely had to.

No longer did you attempt to cook dinner for the inner circle. Not that they had ever liked what you made anyways...

No longer did you take your walks along the Sidra.

No longer did you sit in front of the fireplace, sipping tea and taking up as little space as possible.

But Bounty Day was coming up. The one holiday that you had cared was nearly here, and you wanted to celebrate it the way your family never had.

You wanted to roast a turkey and a boar, mash potatoes and sauté green beans. You wanted to try your hand at the delicious cheese and pasta dish Feyre adored from Sevenda's. You wanted to bake and bake and bake, until there was one of everyone's favorite desserts available.

You just needed permission. Which was why you were standing outside of Feyre's study door, hand poised to knock.

"Come in, Y/N," Feyre said from inside, loud enough that even your ears could hear her.

You peeked in sheepishly, eyes landing on where Feyre's hand was gliding across a sheet of paper, writing something out.

"Is this a bad time?" You asked quietly, wondering if you should have just stayed in your room.

Feyre sighed, and set down her quill. "No, not at all. Come in, sit, Y/N."

You did as she said, taking a seat in the low backed leather chair in front of her desk. "I... I wanted to run an idea by you...?"

"What kind of idea?" Feyre asked wearily.

"Well... Bounty Day is coming up, I thought... I thought it would be nice for all of us to celebrate. As a family."

Feyre blinked at you, her eyes losing some of their clarity for a few seconds, a look that you knew meant she was conversing with her mate. "I suppose that would be doable, Y/N, I'll make sure everyone knows. We would only be able to have it at the House of Wind, though, there's a few things that need to be done around here before we host a holiday."

A spark of hope lit up in your chest. "That would be perfect, Fey!"

Feyre smiled at you. "You can have Nuala and Cerridwen help you purchase everything, and with any preparation or cooking if you'd like."

"That would be very helpful, I'll make sure to ask them for their help and input."

"Good, I'm glad that that's settled. Did you need anything else from me?" Feyre had already picked her quill up again, continuing whatever thought you had stopped her in before.

"Oh, no. I'll be fine, thank you Feyre."

You felt... Dismissed. But at least you have permission to celebrate the day.

Over the next week, you worked tirelessly to get the ingredients you needed, even asking the meat vendors for a fae-palate worthy recipe.

You were sure your old recipes would be no good... Each one you had made for the inner circle was met with thinly veiled disgust.

And Sevenda's recipe- you were so thankful that the other female had taken pity on you and given you a copy of her recipe after you promised to share it with no one, ever.

Cerridwen had helped you read each recipe, both of you making sure that you knew the recipes by heart so you wouldn't have to rely on the mess of letters that you were no closer to understanding than you were before your family's status had changed.

Slowly but surely, you were putting together a feast that would put the one you had two years ago in the mortal lands to shame.

As you had hoped, you made a favorite dessert of each inner circle member, nine in total. You just hope that they don't go uneaten, or with only a small slice out of each one...

You woke at dawn that morning, pulling yourself into the bath and getting clean before you donned a cream colored dress, cut in the current human fashion. You had yet to wear a piece of Night Court fashion, feeling much more comfortable covered up, hidden.

Nuala shadow-walked you up to the House, a change of clothes in the bag over your shoulder. She only left when you insisted that you had the cooking covered and that you would be fine.

All day, you worked to bring Bounty Day to life around you, the delicious smells of roasting meats filling the House.

You hadn't felt so at peace in... A long while. Before your sisters were taken. Perhaps even before Feyre was taken...

Afternoon came and went in a blur of basting the turkey and turning the boar roast over the fire, your body flushed from the blazing heat as you worked.

As the final hour rolled around, you were able to change into your formal dress, a calf length pale pink wrap dress with long sleeves. You had picked this dress out months ago with Feyre, when she had insisted you needed to buy clothing of your own, and find things that you liked. This one, you liked. It was your favorite color, and the fabric was buttery soft under your fingers. You pulled on some slippers in a matching color and made your way back to the main hall, where you set the table meticulously, making sure everything was in its correct place.

Now for the most difficult part, in your opinion: transferring everything to the dining table without it cooling off too quickly.

You moved the food as fast as you were able, the turkey and boar left in the kitchen until the last moment, when you would have one of the males carve them for you.

Six o'clock rolled around, the time Feyre had agreed to, and no one had arrived. You poured yourself a small glass of wine and took a seat at the table, slowly sipping your drink as you waited.

And waited.

The food was lukewarm now, at seven.

The anxiety pooling in your gut had you back in the kitchen, carving meat from bone until your hands were sore.

Still, no one had arrived when you brought the platters of meat onto the table, a feast laid out with no one to eat it.

At eight, you were exhausted. Exhausted from working yourself more than you had in months. Exhausted from hoping, only for those hopes to be extinguished so quickly. Exhausted from living in a place you don't belong.

You sighed and pushed yourself out of your chair. On tired legs, you made your way to the front door of the House.

No way in hell would you be accused of trying to steal someone's mate again, accused of lying in wait all night to seduce Cassian if you were to stay in one of the guest rooms.

So the ten thousand steps down was your only choice.

The first thousand was easy enough, though the wind had chilled you to the bone already, the night's icy fingers extending around your heart as well.

By the time you were halfway down, you sobbed with each step.

How? How could they have all forgotten? Even Feyre...

On numbed legs, you finished your descent. But where to now...?

The only place you could belong was the River House... The only place in Prythian that you could ever belong, as a human.

You sniffled and wrapped your arms tighter around yourself, attempting to keep any amount of warmth in your body as you carefully walked across the icy path along the Sidra.

The wind was bitter here too, but you had the babble of water to keep you company, the most pleasant friend you had.

The River House came in to view, lit up from within with bursts of faelight. The chimney let out pleasant puffs of smoke, a clear sign people are inside.

You stopped in your tracks.

Past Elain's garden and through the back window of the River House, you could see them.

All of them.

They were sat around the dining table, eating and drinking merrily together, enjoying each other's company.

And then there was you. Half-frozen from the weather and completely iced over inside.

You don't belong here.

Your body turned on its own, your mind so wrapped in itself that you hardly noticed where you were going.

All you knew was you needed out.

Out of this city.

Out of this life you were forced into.

Out of this family.

You need out.

Your feet carried you to the edge of Velaris, the exit of the city that lead to the wilds of the Night Court.

You don't belong in Prythian. You belong in the human lands.

The boundary of Velaris passed under your feet as you continued walking, hardly feeling anything at all now.

Your fingers were numb, as were your toes and bottoms of your feet. Your arms were nearing the same sensation.

Good.

Perhaps the numbness that had overtaken your heart would consume the rest of you.

The only person left who cared, doesn't care now.

You don't care, not anymore.

general taglist: @daughterofthemoons-stuff @lilah-asteria @meritxellao

ILIPW taglist: @darkbloodsly

#i look in people's windows #the afterthought #Cassian x reader - unrequited #Cassian x reader #archeron!reader #acotar x you #acotar x reader #unrequited love #acotar #acotar fic #angst #acotar fanfic #nessian #elucien #Feysand #tato writes

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thesunloveschips · 3 months ago

Text

Obsessed (Azriel x Reader) - Masterlist

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Hello everyone!! ✨

Due to foreseen circumstances (my delusions) which went out of control, I have decided to move forward by writing this as a series.

Summary: Azriel is obssessed. Y/n is delusional. Everybody wants to get railed (and they eventually will, I promise).

I don't even know how I came up with this summary but I did. 😂😂

Warnings: Stalker Azriel, delusions, smutty fantasies, Azriel's hands and thick, veiny forearms and long fingers, Azriel's tattoos, smut (upcoming), etc. (will keep adding as the story progresses)

This is 18+ stuff, I know we've all read Wattpad and AO3 but please don't risk your mental health.

****

Part 1: In a world of boys, he’s an obsessed billionaire stalker.

Part 2: Y/n gets even more horny. Meanwhile, Azriel is horny, obsessed, and is busy taking notes for their future home.

Part 3: Nesta is even more delusional than Y/n. Azriel finally knows his woman is attracted to him.

Part 4 (SMUT): Feelings and desires finally come forward.

Part 5 (MORE SMUT): We continue the sex from where we left off previously.

Part 6 (SMUT): Azriel and Y/n are idiots in obsession and perfectly matched in lust.

Part 7 (EVEN MORE SMUT): Delulu Azriel takes issue with not being married to Y/n. (he’s just a girl)

Part 8 (a little smut): Y/n discovers a few things and a few more are revealed.

****

Comment if you want to be tagged. ✨✨

Thank you for your patience!

Much love Chips

****

Taglist:

@fantanbietsson @angstylittleb1tch @fhgsvbnh @olive-main @cherryjain17 @halo-mystic @starofanotherworld @latinxbipride @viatorem-maris @acotarbestie @sevikas-whore @anthonys-viscountess @randomgurl2326 @thelov3lybookworm @cat-or-kitten @mortqlprojections @tele86 @rorel1a @red0202 @atomictyphoonkitten @colorfulgardenerduck @scarsandallaz @anonymousdisco @rcarbo1 @workof-a-rr-t @fuckingsimp4azriel @isabella13dusk @donnadiddadog @yannnnooooxoxox-blog @nxgh1 @thedeviltohisangel @katherinebright @fandomtrash5092 @epicsweetness712 @anik-4 @hitsxbikbv @julesvanslutta @fae-dreamer-99 @cartonkid1200 @anainkandpaper @yourwonderbelle @stefbroo @imjustagirl713 @bbykaixx @lilah-asteria

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surielstea · 9 months ago

Text

Words on Paper

Based on this request.

Pairing: Azriel x Fem!Reader

Summary: Azriel’s jealous over a male in your book and it’s hilarious.

Warnings: Just fluff, short Drabble :)

1k words

You and Nesta hadn't shut up about the men in your books all morning. The new Sellyn Drake novel had come out less than a week ago and the both of you couldn't stop raving about it, you swore you had dreams about the characters, and when you weren't caught up in the plot you were analyzing the characters, the male love interest specifically who Nesta and you were all but frothing at the mouth over.

"I need him, unfortunately," Nesta sighed, looking over to me as we held our planks. Valkyrie training seemed to go a lot faster when the both of you got the chance to debrief over chapters and share what you were passionate about, Cassian didn't seem to care as long as we stayed on task and kept up with the movements.

The exercises had become second nature to the both of you, sure it wasn't as mindless as breathing but after it's been part of your routine for weeks it truly does come naturally, like a second language that only the two of you can speak.

Azriel was slow to insanity at this point. He couldn't seem to adjust to the idea of you taking interest in anyone but him. With Mates, the rule is that if the bond is accepted then there's no one else for that person, intertwined by fate.

So why was he so irritated when you rambled too long about a guy from a book?

"Are you two working out your mouths too?" Azriel stands above you, arms crossed over his chest. Slowly, you look up at him with a wide grin. "Sorry, sir," you tease. Nesta shakes her head in exasperation and you giggle.

It took one minute of silence until Nesta and you were whispering amongst each other again.

Azriel seems to have given up days ago, his eyes narrowed at you from across the sparring mats, Cassian next to him as they drink their waters.

“Doesn’t it bother you?” Azriel asks his brother, continuing to stare at both of their mates. “Does what?” Cassian turned to him with an arched brow. “That they’re so obsessed with those men from their little smut novels,” Azriel mutters and Cassian nearly laughs at the death glare the Shadow Singer was saving for the fictional male, who as of late was threatening to take his wife away.

“It’s just words on paper,” Cass shrugs, bending down to place his water on the ground. “I know but, the idea of her wanting anyone else gets under my skin,” Azriel argues and this time Cassian does laugh, it was so odd to see the revered Spymaster so torn up about some guy, who wasn’t even real. “What’re you jealous of him?” Cassian scoffs through his laughter. Azriel rolls his eyes and puts his water down. “Whatever, just don’t come crying when you can’t satisfy Nesta anymore,” He grumbled.

“I doubt that day will come,” Nesta hums from behind the Shadow Singer. He knew she was there, you with her, but he needed to get his point across. “Hey hun, you ready to go?” You dip under his arm, placing a hand on his bare chest. He only nodded in reply.

“Hey, remember what I said, it’s just words Az,” Cassian said before you got the chance to winnow him away, he nodded once more then you took him home.

You didn’t want to know what the General was going on about, you could tell from training Azriel was a little irritated but you couldn’t remember doing anything to irk him.

“You gonna tell me what’s wrong or just keep pouting like a baby?” You ask and he scowls down at you. You smile, hands coming to his jaw and pressing a soft kiss to his lips, he barely has time to reciprocate it before you’re pulling away.

“What’s got you so tense?” You smush his cheeks together and he just stares at you in reply, so you begin to guess. “Something Cass did?” You ask and he shakes his head no. “Something I did?” He doesn’t move and you deflate, flinging your arms over his shoulders and melting into him. “Can’t you just tell me what’s wrong, please?” You sigh into his neck, already admitting defeat. “Do you like him more than me?” He blurts and you stiffen, pulling away to look up at him confused. “Like who?” You utter. “The guy in your stupid book,” He grumbled and you openly cackled before slapping a hand over your lips. “It’s not funny,” He groans backing away from your touch and plopping down onto the sofa, where he could sulk in peace. “I know, I’m sorry Az,” You say, taking deep breaths to control your giggles. “I’m just saying, what does he have that I don’t?” He frowns and you walk over to him, sprawling over his lap and straddling his hips. “Perhaps a control on his emotions?” You tease and he grumbles beneath his breath like a child, looking away from you.

It was true that Azriel was quite explosive. One would think he’d be less reactive as the Spymaster and yet he might’ve been the quickest to action out of all the inner circle. It was a weakness, something he was working on. It was rude of you to point it out but you make up for it by peppering a line of loving kisses up the side of his face.

“I love you, okay? Only you,” You reassure. “Those men, they’re meant to be thirsted over, you understand that don’t you?” You ask and the male nods. “I just don’t want you wanting anyone else,” He looks at me and my grin widens. “Awh, Az,” You wrap your arms around him and squeeze him tight. “I’m all yours, don’t worry,” You muffle into his neck. “Yeah? All mine?” He asks and you nod rapidly before saying, “Promise,”

“Now stop acting like a big baby,” you pull away from the hug and hold his face in your hands. “I’m gonna go bathe, you gonna keep moping out here or do you wanna join me?” You tease. He doesn’t answer and instead picks you up from where you sit and walks you straight to the bathing chambers.

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multi-fandom-imagines8 · 8 months ago

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A Song of Ice & Shadow

Part 1

A/N: Hello everyone! I’m planning to write an Azriel x Archeron!half-sister reader series, possibly featuring a slow-burn romance and angst. I don’t know how many parts it’s going to have. It begins in ACOMAF chapter 24.

A Song of Ice & Shadow masterlist

Summary: The eldest Archeron half-sister Y/n hates Fae kind, due to tragic past events. When she unexpectedly visits her sisters, she is met with the very race she hates.

Word count: 2.11K

Being the eldest sibling is not always easy. Y/n knew this firsthand, shouldering the weight of responsibility for her younger sisters from a young age. After their mother’s death, she made the difficult decision to leave her sisters behind and stay with her supposed biological father. It wasn’t because she didn’t share the same father as her sisters; in fact, he loved her like she was his own and never discriminated between them. For the first two years after their mothers death, she stayed with her family, but when her “father” lost his fortune, she knew leaving was the only option. It wasn’t just about lightening their burden by having one less mouth to feed; she also hoped by seeking out her biological father, she could find work and send money back to her family.

Surprisingly, her father welcomed her with open arms, a kindness that caught her off guard considering he had shown little interest in her when she was younger. Despite her initial skepticism, she didn’t question his motives, fearing he might kick her out. With cleverness and father’s help, she managed to pursue higher education, while working to make ends meet. Though her earnings were modest, she’d send whatever she could spare to her family, ensuring they had enough to survive. With Feyre’s help, there was always food on the table.

Y/n’s life was devoid of fun. Between studying, working, sleeping and occasional visits to her family, she had little time for socializing and friends. This isolation was entirely her choice; she distanced herself from others, earning a reputation as being cold, heartless, selfish, and arrogant to those who didn’t know her well. Yet, beneath this exterior, she harbored a deep love for her sisters and would sacrifice anything for their well-being, despite no longer showing them affection after their mother’s death. They understood her silent expressions of care, recognizing that actions spoke louder than words.

One thing everyone knew for certain is that y/n was stubborn. She held fast to her beliefs and opinions, regardless of external influences. Among her sisters, Netsa was the most like her and the one who admired her the most. The two shared the closest bond before she left, but make no mistake, if anyone Nesta feared and obeyed, it was Y/n, knowing she was not one to be crossed.

After Feyre left the mortal realm, her family’s fortune turned, and she finished her education. Consequently, her visits became less frequent, as she immersed herself into her work.

A smile appeared on y/n’s face at the thought of her sisters’ reactions to seeing her after a long time. She decided to surprise them with a spontaneous visit. Unbeknownst to her, another surprise awaited her inside the place she called home.

“Nesta, Elain, I’m home!” y/n announced as she opened the front door of their home.

“Are we expecting someone else?” Rhys whispered to Feyre.

“Nesta, why didn’t you tell me y/n was coming?” Feyre questioned, panic all over her face.

“I didn’t know. She usually sends word before she comes” Nesta claimed.

The conversation between the two sisters earned them a curious, yet worried look from the three males. Nesta stood from chair, hurrying to the door, but she was too late, y/n was now standing in the dining room, the smile dropping from her face and replaced by a shocked expression at the sight before her.

“What is going on?” y/n asked carefully and slowly.

“These are Feyre’s friends. We were not expecting you today” Elain replied.

“Y/n, it’s been a while. I’m so happy to see you” Feyre stood from her seat and hugged her sister, who was reluctant at first but returned the hug.

“You brought Fae-kind into our home?” it was more of a rhetorical question, but Feyre answered anyway.

“Y/n, this is Cassian” she inclined her head to the male with long hair “Azriel” she pointed to the male who y/n could’ve sworn was the most handsome man she’s even laid eyes on “and Rhysand, high lord of the Night Court” Feyre finished introducing.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you” Rhys said with a warm smile.

“I’m sure” y/n sneered, returning her gaze on her sisters “you still haven’t told me what’s going on and why the very same race we despise are now in our living room, dining with us” y/n tried making sense of the situation.

Feyre explained the situation, why they were here, what they needed from the sisters and the threat posed by Hybern.

“So the moment you became fae, you chose to forsake us?” this was all y/n could utter.

“I’d never do that. Me being fae doesn’t change that. It never will. You’ll always be my sister” Feyre assured her.

“If you did, you wouldn’t have brought THEM here. Hatred aside, do you have any idea of the danger you just put Nesta and Elain in?” Y/n turned her hand into a fist, her knuckles as white as they could be, trying to keep her temper in check.

“There was nowhere else to go” Feyre claimed.

“And you were alright with this?” Y/n turned to face her other sisters.

“I wasn’t, but Elain agreed” Nesta informed her.

“Feyre’s right, there-“ Cassian spoke.

“Who are you again?” Y/n glared at him “I’m too tired to deal with this now” she rubbed her temples and said to no one in specific “call me when they’re gone”.

“Uhm, they’re-“ before Nesta could finish the sentence, y/n was already gone “-going to stay for a while” she sighed.

“I take it, this is your eldest sister” Rhys asked.

“I told you she could be intense” Feyre replied.

“That’s one word for it” Cassian expressed and was met with a glare from Nesta.

—-

Thinking they had left, y/n descended the stairs, dressed in her nightgown and robe, seeking out a comforting cup of tea in the quiet atmosphere of midnight. Opening the backdoor leading to their garden, she leaned against the door frame, admiring the stars as she sipped her tea. She took a deep breath appreciating the tranquility and solitude the night provided. She could’ve sworn the shadows moved, but she dismissed it believing it was hallucinations caused by exhaustion from a long trip. Noticing a bright star in the sky, she lifted her cup up and uttered “cheers” a sad smile appearing on her face…

As she was locking the door, she glimpsed a figure in the shadows. This time, unable to dismiss what she saw, she called out “who’s there?”.

At first there was no response but she called out again “I know there’s someone here, so I suggest you come out” she demanded.

Azriel hesitated but complied “I apologize, I did not mean to disturb you”.

“What are you still doing here?” She covered herself with the robe, the gesture did not go unnoticed by Azriel.

“Your gracious sisters allowed us to stay here for a while” he informed her.

“Have they now?” she nodded, clearly displeased by the information she just received “how long are you planning on staying here?”.

“Not long. As soon as the letter is delivered, we’ll be out of your way, I give you my word” he politely said.

“Your word means nothing to me. And if you’re staying at someone’s house, do not sneak up on them” her words as cold as ice.

“I wasn-“ before Azriel could explain, she had left, making his jaw clench in frustration.

The following day, she went downstairs earlier to get some breakfast, but what was early for her, was late for others. Upon entering the kitchen, she found Rhys and Feyre engaged in a conversation with Elain, while Nesta and Cassian bickered over their tea. Azriel was standing in the corner and when he saw her enter, his whole body tensed, and Cassian and Nesta went still

“Good morning” Rhys greeted and was met with silence.

Y/n prepared her breakfast when Feyre approached her “how did you sleep?” Y/n just stared at her sister without saying a word. Once she was done preparing her food, she took it and left without acknowledging anyone’s existence. As Cassian and Nesta resumed their bickering, Azriel finally relaxed, prompting Rhys to speak again “not a good morning, I guess?” He joked.

“Oh believe me, this is a good morning. If you think this was something, then you really don’t want to see her angry” Feyre remarked.

“Is she always like this?” Cassian asked.

“Give her time. She doesn’t like strangers and she most definitely hates Fae-kind” Feyre reminded.

“Yeah, that was clear” Cassian said.

“You’re talking about her like she’s a bad person” Nesta defended.

“Nesta, you know that’s not what I meant” Feyre tried to explain.

“All I’ve seen you do since you got here is criticizing y/n. She’s done nothing wrong” Nesta reminded.

“I’m sorry, but you know how y/n can be”.

“How? All she did was ignore you all, instead of engaging in a pitty argument that would hit your weak spots, and last I’ve known, she does not owe any of you anything. If you’re going to stay in this house, then better respect their owners” Nesta expressed.

“Nesta!” Elain said, clearly displeased with her sister’s tone.

—-

“Can I come in?” Nesta asked permission to enter y/n’s room.

“What is it now?” Y/n opened the door.

“I wanted to spend some time with you”

“Don’t you have guests to entertain?” Y/n crossed her arms.

“Elain and Feyre can deal with them. I’d rather stay here with you”.

“Fiine” y/n rolled her eyes but allowed her sister into her room.

“They already have a bad impression of you” Nesta told her.

“When did I ever care about what people thought of me? Let alone, what male Fae thought of me” y/n chuckled “it bothered you, didn’t it?”.

“Of course it did. I wouldn’t allow anyone to speak badly of you”.

“They’re just words spoken by irrelevant people. When you acknowledge their words, you make them relevant. Remember Nesta, you decide who you give power over you”.

The next day, Feyre, Rhys and Azriel were absent from the kitchen when y/n arrived “oh, for fuck’s sake, how do you two find the energy to fight this early in the morning?” Y/n asked, clearly awoken by the sound of Cassian and Nesta arguing.

“It’s noon” Cassian corrected.

“Whatever. If you’re gonna argue, do it outside. Hearing your voice gives me headaches” y/n uttered.

“And here I thought my voice was soothing” he sarcastically said.

“Don’t. Just don’t!” Cassian’s attempt at humor was met with y/n’s annoyance.

“Rough night?” he asked.

“More like a rough couple of days. Some people clearly don’t know how to be good guests” Y/n started making herself a cup of coffee.

“Well, maybe that’s because some people don’t know how to be polite hosts” he snickered.

“You know what? You’re not worth my time, if you want to argue, you have Nesta. She apparently has the patience for it”.

“Y/n” Nesta called.

“What? You do love arguing” y/n reminded.

“Wow, the two of you in the same house as poor Elain and Feyre, how did they survive?”.

“By knowing when to speak and when to shut up” y/n glared at him, taking her coffee and leaving and he said something.

—-

“What now?” Y/n asked as Feyre called for her sisters “We can leave soon to mail our letter” informing them.

“And this concerns me how?” Y/n asked.

“I-I thought you’d like to go with us”.

“Why would I do that? No, thank you”… “wasn’t there one more of you?” Y/n asked, pretending to just have realized Azriel wasn’t present.

“He had to return early. We had an altercation this morning” Feyre explained.

“Altercation?” Y/n narrowed her eyes,

“It’s nothing”.

“If you’re trying to hide it, then it is something”.

“She was attacked” Rhys claimed.

“What? By whom? And you call THIS nothing?” Y/n started checking her sister for injuries and both males’ eyes widened in surprise.

“I’m fine. I’m not hurt”.

“Who attacked you?”.

“It’s rather a what. She was attacked by a creature called the Attor who was sent by the king of Hybern” Rhys informed her “don’t worry, Az is taking care of it”.

To his surprise, she only nodded.

“I changed my mind. I’m coming with you” y/n announced.

“Don’t tell me it’s because I was attacked” Feyre smirked.

“Oh, shut up!” Y/n nudged her with her shoulder.

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springcourtrose · 11 months ago

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Please, stop... | Part 4

Pairing: Helion x reader (x Nessian)

Warnings: mentions of death - MINORS DNI

Prompt: you’re Nesta and Cassian’s mate and yet you are so different from them. From day 1 you tried to be a good mate and do as they wanted and liked but they like it rough and you just don’t. Not only is it not enjoyable for you, it is actually painful. And not just in bed. You always excused their behavior as being overprotective but recently you started calling it something else: controlling. And one night, all changed as you uttered the words you had tried so hard never to say, but always thinking if you ever did they would listen. But they didn’t. And that night, everything broke.

(A/N: Thank you for all of your support, this has been fun! I hope you enjoy this last part 🩷 PS: English isn't my first language)

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3

Nesta and Cassian were lying in bed, facing each other, staring at the empty space in the middle, where you used to lie in between them. They did so every day, twice a day in fact. Once in the evening, when your absence kept them awake, and once in the morning, when it made them want to die.

They had no time for it this morning, however, as Rhys had called a meeting, and they were already late for it.

It had been a little over a year since you left and they had never recovered from your loss. And they never will. They didn't want to.

Their friends had gotten used to their empty eyes, to the bags under them, to the paleness of their skin. They had even started to forget the sound of their laughs or the way they smiled. It was an unspoken rule not to mention you in front of them, ever. And had they been paying attention, had they cared at all about anything anymore, they would have noticed their friends' nervous behavior. They had gotten used to the pity in their eyes, but this morning, there was something more than just pity. They sat on the couch across from where Rhys and Feyre waited for them. Amren in the armchair on their right, Mor on their left, Azriel standing behind her, his back against the wall. They had no idea what the meeting was about, they didn't care. They were utterly unprepared for what they were about to hear.

"We have news," Rhys started carefully." From the Day Court."

Nesta stilled. Cassian looked up at his brother, a hint of light in his hollow eyes.

"Y/N?" he asked, your name only a murmur on his lips, as if he could hurt you again just by speaking your name.

"Yes."

"Is she alright?"

"She's fine. She... Helion sent word to every court. They have married, and he's made her his High Lady."

Neither of them felt the watchful eyes of their friends as their High Lord told them the news. They had no idea what to expect from them. When it came to you, their behavior had been surprising ever since you had gone. They had given up so quickly. They had let you go. They hadn't even tried to go and see you in the Day Court. As if every day since your departure was self-inflicted torture, penance, for what they had done to you. They were miserable, and they knew they deserved it and worse.

"That's good," Cassian nodded, a small smile forming on his face, quickly fading away. "Helion makes her happy. I'm glad."

Nesta said nothing. She didn't react. She just stared at nothing, like she so often did now. Cassian placed a hand on hers and squeezed gently.

"That's good," he repeated.

And that had been that.

Your laugh echoed through the courtyard, like it so often did now. The servants and caretakers smiled as they watched you and their High Lord embrace in the sun.

You were brushing Thea's mane when your husband had come up behind you and pressed a kiss in your neck. His hands ran down your body as he enveloped you in his arms.

"Good morning, my love."

"'morning, sunshine," you smiled, leaning into him.

Thea had been his wedding gift to you. The most perfect pegasus, 'a steed fit for a High Lady', he had written on the note. Unfortunately, you had said, you would not be able to ride her for a few months. That had been your gift to him, and you swore the smile on his face, as you brought his hands to your swollen belly, had shone brighter than the sun.

You were only three months along, but already so big. You had complained about it to him, feeling somewhat insecure, but he had assured you you had never looked better. And the healer the next day had easily explained it. You were carrying twins. A boy and a girl. Both healthy. You were both overjoyed.

The past year had been absolute bliss for the both of you. There was really nothing that could ruin it.

It was the middle of the afternoon when it happened. Two months after your wedding. You were sitting comfortably on your canopy in your chambers, reading a book, when death came upon you.

The scream that came out of you was the scariest thing Helion had ever heard. He rushed into the room to find you shaking on the floor, bent over your knees. He knelt in front of you and seized your face in his hands, checking you for any injury. He found none.

"What is it?"

The look in his eyes was wild with worry but yours, yours were grieving.

"Cassian," you breathed. "He's dying."

Cassian's screams echoed in the Court of Nightmares as Madja and two other healers worked on him. They had managed to control the bleeding of his opened wounds but his wings... it was his wings that made his screams so horrible.

It took two more healers to save him from death's grip, but his wings... only time would tell if he would ever be able to fly again.

He slept for hours, only waking for a few minutes at a time. Nesta never left his side. She had already lost one mate, she wouldn't lose another. She had threatened and barked at the healers to save him. It was the most spirit she had shown in the past year and a half.

He was awake, however, when Rhys came in.

"How are you feeling, brother?"

"Half-dead," he coughed, "half-alive."

"There's someone who wants to see you, if you're feeling up to it?"

The Illyrian warrior frowned.

"Who?" Nesta demanded.

And if the bastards who had ambushed him that morning, about 20 men against one, hadn't managed to kill him, the sight of you standing behind his brother could have finished him right then and there.

"Y/N," Nesta breathed as she slowly stood from the bed.

Your eyes quickly moved from him to her then back to him again. He stared right back at you, at a lack for words. He wondered if he were imagining it, if he were hallucinating you. He wondered if you had come to spit on his dead corpse.

Helion stood behind you and remained close as you approached and came to a stop at the end of his bed.

"Hey," you said to him. You spoke to him.

"Hey," he murmured back, tears in his eyes, a knot in his throat.

"I felt you die."

He swallowed hard. "I couldn't die without seeing your pretty face again." He tried to smile. But ended up wincing. You didn't smile back. Tears fell on his cheeks. "You're pregnant."

You took a deep breath as you nodded, your hands coming to rest on your belly. You eyed Nesta quickly. Her cheeks were wet. You understood she never thought she would ever see you again.

"I'm glad you're not dead," you said, and this time, his smile was true. And this time, you smiled back.

You moved to sit on the edge of the bed, near where Nesta stood. You nodded at her. She nodded back.

You slowly brought a hand to Cassian's face and cupped his cheek, wiping tears away with your thumb.

"Will your wings heal?"

"'don't know."

"I'm sorry."

"Don't," he shook his head. "Don't ever apologize to me, to us," he said as he took your tiny hand in his large one. "I'm so sorry, Y/N," he sobbed. "I'm so fucking sorry."

You nodded, then looked up at Nesta. You didn't expect her to apologize. She didn't apologize to anyone, and you doubted she would to you.

"We fucked it up," he spat, angry and disgusted at himself. "We didn't take care of you like we should have. We didn't treat you right. We hurt you, and I'll never forgive myself for that. Ever."

You nodded again. It's not that you couldn't find the words. It's that you had absolutely nothing to say to that. To them.

"I will always love you," he continued. "As long as I'm alive."

"I know," you finally said. You had felt it that day you had tried to destroy the bond. That was that tiny thread left between you. Their love, however painful it had been to you.

He smiled again. A sad smile that should have broken your heart.

"Are you happy?"

"Yes."

"Then I will die a happy male."

"You won't die at all, even if I have to bring all the healers of the Day Court to save your life."

He chuckled, then winced.

"Spoken like a true High Lady," he said with a proud smile. "So," he cleared his throat. "Boy or girl?"

You smiled slightly. "Both. Twins."

"I'm so happy for you," he beamed at you. You felt Nesta boil from where she stood. You knew she was trying her very best not to say a thing. Not to ruin this moment. For Cassian. And for you.

"Be happy, Cassian," you told him, running your thumb once more on his cheek before letting go of his face.

You gestured for Helion to help you back up and he was with you in an instant. You looked up at Nesta as you stood on your feet. She wouldn't say a thing, but you saw enough in her eyes. She had lost any hope of happiness the day she lost you. And she would live with that for the rest of her life.

You smiled at your husband as he linked his arm to yours and walked you to the door. You were halfway across the room when a voice stopped you.

"Tell me what I have to do to have your forgiveness."

You turned to meet Nesta's eyes. Determined. Desperate.

You had thought about it. You had thought about it many times. What it would take for you to forgive them. You never could find the answer. And as you stood there with her you understood there was nothing either of them could do. Nothing they could say. But there was one thing you were dying to know.

"Why didn't you stop when I asked?"

Cassian's face turned grave. Nesta didn't even flinch.

"I didn't want to," she answered honestly. "I took what I wanted from you and I didn't stop to think how that made you feel. I didn't even consider the possibility that I was... that we were hurting you. Because you were my... our mate, and you were mine..." she paused, a knot forming in her throat as tears formed in her eyes. "And I was so wrong."

"So you didn't know you were hurting me?"

She shook her head. Cassian said nothing, he only lowered his eyes in shame.

"Would you have stopped, would you have changed, had you known?"

"Yes." It was Cassian who answered. "But we should have known."

"We should have known," Nesta nodded.

You paused to look at them both for a moment. Then, you squeezed Helion's hand before you turned your back to your mates once more.

"Yes. You should have."

The end!

I hope you liked it! I am curious though, do you think reader should have / could have forgiven them? Were you hoping for another ending? 🤔 Let me know!

Thank you all for the likes and reblogs, I really enjoyed writing this, I haven't written in so long! 🩷

Tags: @chessebookgirl @impossibelle @esposadomd @saltedcoffeescotch @sleepylunarwolf @63angel @azzydaddy @ghostbutaliveidk @queerqueenlynn @randomperson1234sblog @nyx-the-alien

#acotar #a court of thorns and roses #helion x reader #nesta x cassian #nessian x reader #nessian #cassian #nesta #nesta archeron #cassian x nesta #helion #acotar fic #acotar angst #acotar fanfic #sjm #sjmu

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lainalit · 5 months ago

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My personal favorite nessian fix it fics

The Hike, Alternatively | The Whole Truth | Of Death and Resurrection | Burning From the Inside Out by @kale-theteaqueen (I recommend checking their masterlist out so many amazing fics🙏💙)

A Long Way Down | Falling by becauseofreading

A Court of Vice and Victors by @wishcamper

#my favorite bedtime activity recently is bawling my eyes out to soft comforting nessian fics #I will never forgive sjm for what she done to my babies #nessian #nesta archeron #cassian acotar #sjm critical #acotar critical

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mykingdomforasong · 6 months ago

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Nessian "enemies" to lovers modern au ("enemies" in a deeply unserious, and also very one-sided way) set at a gym where they both teach classes. Cassian teaches a kick-boxing class after Nesta's pilates class.

Cassian keeps inviting her to stay and join his kick-boxing class, teasing her a little, trying to convince her to stick around, etc. And her read of the situation is that he's some gym bro who doesn't think pilates and dance are that hard and is trying to show her a "real" workout. This has happened to her plenty of times before with other men. She mostly ignores him, because she's tired of going through this.

Finally, she agrees to take his class if he takes her pilates class first. She's got something to prove, so she makes class a little harder than usual. By the end, he's half-dead on the reformer, and she's smug. "Not so easy is it?"

"No, but it was a lot of fun! I might join your class more often, if that's okay?"

"You ... enjoyed it?"

"Oh yeah, I used to do pilates and yoga with my friend Mor all the time, but fell off a few years ago."

"So you ... knew it wasn't going to be some super easy class for girls?"

"No why would I --" and then the lights finally go on in his brain, and he realizes how he's looked from her point of view for the last few months. He's instantly so apologetic just, "You thought I was making fun of you for four months? Oh, I'm so sorry, no that's my fault. I should have been more clear. I just know you're a dancer. I thought you might enjoy the cardio work out."

Nesta is just rubbing her temples, trying to process this whole situation. "So you're not a giant tool, just some big, hot dummy?"

"You think I'm hot?"

It's maybe the worst day of her life, but she does goes home with him.

#nessian #nesta archeron #cassian #nessian fic #acotar #a court of thorns and roses

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throneofsapphics · 5 months ago

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the moth and the flame part one: the hold

Nessian x f!Reader

warnings: delusional reader & nesta, drinking

summary: after meeting Nesta in a bookshop, you find the darkest parts of yourselves bonding with each other.

a/n: the first few chapters will center around Nesta before Cassian comes in! this has been my brainchild for a little while and I hope you all enjoy <3 if anyone wants to be added to a tag list please let me know!

series masterlist

Sharp breath fogging the air in front of her, Nesta set off for one of the only tasks, outside of imbibing, that didn’t quite feel like torture. Precise footsteps, steady and calm, took her down the sidewalk, hanging to the shadows, to her sanctuary. At the current hour she’d rarely seen another soul and each time she did it tended to sour her day. Not that it took much to do that recently.

Even with new Fae senses, she could tell when something was different in a space she frequented. Well, a tavern might be another story but this tiny bookstore tucked away in a far corner of Velaris wasn’t. Any other day she may have spun on her heel and stalked out, but the new Sellyn Drake novel released this morning and she’d kill to get her hands on it. Whoever this was, they did have an interesting scent. So warm and inviting it sickened her, perhaps even made her murderous.

A light headache set in. She glanced at the clock. 11:45. Today she’d make it to noon without a drink, that was good enough for her.

First, the book. Second, wine.

One foot in front of the other, crossing the floor with a dancer's grace, something years of separation from lessons couldn’t get rid of.

Eyes zoned in on the table, one copy left. A lucky day for her. Mouth curved up at the corners.

She was so focused on her target she didn’t notice you, but you didn’t notice her either, both of you set on a collision path.

Like right out of a Sellyn Drake novel, static zapped as your fingers touched, two hands retreating back, two bodies tensing, two heads snapping up and eyes locking.

Nesta was quickly enchanted by your touch - as chaotic as it was. Next, the small apologetic smile on your lips. You were speaking - words, fuck. She’d completely missed that.

“It’s all yours,” you repeated a tad slower, concern edging into your voice. Anyone else she would’ve chewed out for that. A better person would’ve let you have the book. At this moment, Nesta wasn’t a better person.

“Thanks,” she muttered and snatched it, spinning on your heel. A sharp intake of breath behind her.

Nesta paused, loosening her body and relaxing her stance, and looked over her shoulder, “what’s your name?”

You answered, and she repeated back, dragging out the last letter, watching you flush pink. A small smile on Nesta’s lips - the kind that screamed trouble, “I’m certain we’ll see each other around.”

“I certainly hope so,” you countered, that surprise she’d heard earlier replaced with an attitude that thrilled her. A little spice. Nesta figured out your scent - cloves, nutmeg, and honey. Her new favorite. She liked you, you’d have fun together.

Over the following days, thoughts of you consumed Nesta. Rolling over on her bed, the scents of various males lingering, she thought of how she’d get rid of that before she had you over. Because Nesta would have you. She needed you like oxygen, like books, like wine.

You didn’t know it yet, but you needed her too. If you didn’t, Nesta would make it so you did. She could be called many horrid things, but when she wanted something, she didn’t hesitate or hold back. Whatever you wanted, she would make it happen for you. You had her in a chokehold.

Looking back, she could pinpoint the moment when her obsession truly began - as soon as she identified and committed your scent to memory. Nesta hasn’t been able to put honey in her tea for far too long.

You thought of the blue-gray eyed beauty. Eyes so cold and harsh, but maybe you were imagining it but hadn’t they softened a tad for you? She was familiar, but you couldn’t quite place her. You supposed the place didn’t matter, not as long as you could get her next to you, above you, under you, down the aisle - you cut your mind off, thinking you’d gone way too far ahead for someone you had a thirty second encounter with at a bookshop. Even Sellyn Drake would think it was a tad ridiculous, that or he’d eat it up. Maybe you should pitch the idea and inspire his newest best seller.

Still, all you could think of was how she softened for you. She must have, you were certain of it now. The female followed up her harsh and probably standard remark with something sweet like asking your name. She wanted to know who you were, just as you wanted to know her now.

It took you a few minutes to compose yourself after meeting her. By the time you had, she was gone, and you realize you still didn’t know her name. Cursing, you sprinted towards the doors, whisper-shouting a sorry to the shop owner, even though nobody else was inside.

A flash of golden brown hair around the corner, perhaps a quarter of a mile down the street. It might not even be her, you frowned. With your luck, you’d chase all the way down just to terrorize a random citizen of Velaris.

Glancing around to check the street was empty first, you whispered a quiet ‘come back,’ a soft plea to the mystery female, the mother, and the universe to bring her back to you.

‘Too much,’ the annoyingly logical part of your brain said, but they were easily ignored and even easier to drown out.

If it came to it you could go back to that same bookstore, at the same time, and perhaps run across her again. On the other hand, you could let her find you. She seemed like the type of female who enjoyed a chase, and like a resourceful one. Oryou were reading too many books and your mind came up with outlandish fantasies. Not that outlandish, some of your friends had told you particularly tantalizing stories and you felt an inherent desire to live out one of your own, no matter how it might hurt you in the future. It would.

#nessian x y/n #nessian x reader #poly!nessian #poly!nessian x y/n #poly!nessian x reader #cassian x y/n #cassian x reader #nesta archeron x reader #nesta archeron x y/n #acotar x reader #acotar fic #acotar fanfiction #nesta x reader #nesta x y/n

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catastrophiccerealkiller · 6 months ago

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hello just came here to say i hate rhysand and cassian please die thank you for listening to my ted talk.

#anti cassian #anti rhysand #nesta archeron #pro nesta archeron #anti inner circle #anti nessian #sjm critical #omfg bye #Grade A motherfuckers #literally could write a thesis and dissertation on how much they fucking suck #anyway #someone give me fic recs #where they both die a horrible violent very unpeaceful death #if you made it here here’s a cookie 🍪

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whyisaravenlike-awritingdesk · 23 days ago

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Who Could Ask to be Unbroken or Be Brave Again? (i, ao3)

(Surprise!! It has been the biggest joy to be your Secret Santa for the @acotargiftexchange this year, @kale-theteaqueen and getting to write some angst for the undisputed angst QUEEN was an honour. I hope you enjoy this first chapter, and - if all goes to plan - I'll be posting the remaining two chapters later this week ❤️)

In the three years since Nesta Archeron had been thrown into the Cauldron by the King of Hybern, she had thought she'd done enough healing. Thought things were… better, now. But as Solstice rolls around once again, she finds herself struggling with both the weight of fae customs and the fact that she's never really found a place for herself in her sister's court. Determined not to let herself ruin her mate's favourite holiday, Nesta struggles through her third Solstice above the wall… but will this year be the year that Cassian steps up at last? (Set post-ACOSF)

It had started with a note.

One innocent enough, each word penned one of cheer and optimism; sparkling and lovely on the most luxurious magnolia paper. It was such a pretty thing, with its decorated edges and fading scent of roses— a stupid thing, to send her on such a downward spiral.

A ridiculous, cruel thing. To grab her by the throat and sink its claws, pulling - hauling - her back, right to the bottom of the mountain she’d climbed since being tipped out of that damned Cauldron.

Because Solstice neared, and Nesta Archeron was right back at square fucking one.

The note - the invitation - lay on the table where she had tossed it the night before, the seal cracked and splintered. She didn’t want to look at it, didn’t want to be reminded of each and every way she was still failing.

Instead she stood alone in the House of Wind, looking out at the city and watching the snow fall idly beyond the windows. The mountains, reaching for the sky, the horizon a blend of grey and white that seemed to stretch forever. It was almost pretty, like something Feyre might have painted. A landscape of snow and ice, with frost that glittered like shards of broken diamonds. For days people in the city below had been stringing up lights in preparation for the Solstice celebrations, and Nesta knew that when night fell, Velaris would be a wonderland of colour and light, pricking the darkness like a hundred thousand stars.

And every one of them - each shard of light that broke through the black, each glittering faelight that pierced the night - every one of them filled her with dread.

Come down to the river house tomorrow, Elain had written on that damned invitation. Written— because it was easier to send a note than ask somebody to winnow her up to the House, and she couldn’t manage the stairs. Nobody could, because nobody else was expected to.

We’re baking gingerbread and decorating cookies. For Solstice!

The exclamation mark— a cheery piece of punctuation in night-dark ink.

But Nesta didn’t feel particularly cheery. Didn’t know how to, when inadequacy was a curse of its own, one that had plagued her since her earliest days. She hadn’t known how to respond— how to shape her dismay into something that even vaguely resembled joy. It was too unwieldy for that, too inflexible to ever be trimmed properly into something like a smile. The bitterness in her mouth too strong to ever be ignored completely. So she had ignored the invitation, pushed it to the side, and felt a long-familiar wave of insufficiency, maladaptive and cruel, rising to swallow her like it had so many times before.

She’d thought she was over it.

Thought she was past it.

Thought that in the three years since the Cauldron - with the two Solstices she’d already gritted her teeth through - that this year might be different. That part of her might understand, finally, what it was to celebrate a fae holiday, even though every beat of her heart still sounded mortal to her own ears.

But that’s the thing with grief, she supposed. It never leaves. Not really. It lessens and it lessens, but at some point, when you least expect it…

It all comes screaming back, with the rage of a thousand fires and a vengeance strong enough to bring you to your knees.

And Elain’s invitation was the catalyst.

Nesta let out a breath, closing her eyes and praying the damned thing would be gone when she opened them again.

Stupid, really.

It had been read and re-read a hundred times since it had arrived yesterday, and there it remained, sitting in its little patch of light when Nesta opened her eyes again. With a huff she dragged her eyes back to the windows, to the city blanketed with snow. Far below, the river was a frozen streak of silver, a ribbon of mercury that wound its way through streets glittering with frost. It was so idyllic Nesta was certain that this, too, would one day find a way onto Feyre’s walls, immortalised in paint and canvas. Memorialised the way she wasn’t. Not the way everybody else was, their likenesses hanging on the river house walls.

There was no portrait of Nesta hanging in her sister’s home.

And why would there be, she thought bitterly. She couldn’t even summon the will to go down into the city to join her sisters for an afternoon baking cookies. Like even the most basic things were still beyond her, too painful to even consider.

She looked to the invitation again. Knew what she would find if she opened it. The same words she’d memorised by now, in handwriting so similar to her own. Elegant and pretty, almost aristocratic. The same hand Elain had been taught by their mother, except Elain hadn’t learned it the hard way, with the sharp sting of a rod rapping at her knuckles when her letters didn’t come out perfect.

“Can you get rid of this for me?” Nesta asked quietly, barely louder than a breath in the silence of the House of Wind.

A soft breeze brushed against her cheek, like the ghost of a finger passing over her skin. When she blinked, the invitation was gone, and the air around her warmed, like the House was doing all it could to embrace her— a hug given in the only way it could.

It made her heart ache.

Only last week the House had strung up garlands in honour of the nearing Solstice celebrations, only to quietly take them down again when it realised that it didn’t inspire in her the kind of festive feeling it should. Nesta had wanted to look at the wreaths of ivy and winter greens and feel joy and hope and everything she ought to. But it was just… greenery, studded with berries and acorns, empty of meaning and devoid of anything substantial. She hadn’t said a word - hadn’t thought she should - but still the House had taken it all down before Cassian could return home, leaving everything as it was, like Solstice had never touched the House at all.

The sigh that left her seemed to shake in her throat as she pulled away from the windows, turning her face away from the city dusted with snow. A sour taste spread in her mouth, and she shook her head sharply as she set down her mug of tea - barely touched - on the table that had only recently been freed of Elain’s invitation.

It wasn’t a mortal tradition, Solstice.

They celebrated the harvest each autumn and danced around maypoles before each spring gave way to summer, but below the wall, there would be no gifts exchanged or families gathering before a roaring hearth tonight. No candles lit in honour of the dark. Mama had raised her - had raised all three of them - on horror stories of the fae. And now Nesta was expected to sit there and observe a tradition so fae in essence, so pagan, that she still struggled to endure it, and all whilst surrounded by the creatures that thanked and blessed the same entity that had stolen the life from her.

Thank the Cauldron— for what, exactly?

They worshipped the thing that destroyed her, and wondered why she found it hard to smile.

Something like anger kindled in her chest, something bitter and acidic as she let her eyes slide closed again.

They didn’t understand. Every step she took, every breath she drew— it wasn’t good enough. None of it ever felt good enough, even now. The smile on her face, never wide enough. The way she accepted invitations, never gracious enough. The lilt of her voice, never gentle enough and her thanks, never genuine enough. Like dying hadn’t been enough to earn a kernel of understanding; abduction not enough for Feyre and her family to understand why Nesta had wanted four locks on her door in the apartment they had taken from her.

Fucking gods— Nesta cursed under her breath and curled her hands into fists at her sides.

Why couldn’t she just let it go? Move on the way her sisters had?

Because how could she have faced them today? How could she ever have stood there decorating cookies, pretending like she didn’t feel like she was dying all over again on the inside? Like she wasn’t an imposter, failing to understand a tradition that had never been hers in the first place? Or like a fool for missing what had once been so familiar to her, for mourning the girl she had been before?

She couldn’t. Wouldn’t.

Sniffing, she opened her eyes again. Looked to the ceiling as she felt the press of air against her shoulder— the House again. Softly, sadly, she smiled, as all of that lingering anger turned inward, burrowing into her bones as she thought of all the human traditions she’d been expected to forget as soon as she crossed the wall. The harvest festivals and the mayday parades; a manor beneath the wall with marble floors and urns overflowing with flowers. Ribbons tied in her hair, fluttering behind her in the wind as she danced, before her mother was cruel and her father was poor. Nostalgic as an oil painting and just as useless, now.

Because none of what she had now was hers, not really, and none of what she’d had before could be brought back.

Another breeze brushed her cheek, as if the House wanted to wipe away tears she hadn’t let fall. She let out a gentle huff, something caught halfway between a laugh and a cry.

“I’m glad you’re here,” she whispered, even though she knew the House couldn’t answer.

The breeze ruffled the loose ends of her braid as she fixed her implacable mask back into place, and Nesta’s eyes wandered back to the window, to the horizon that stretched across the city so many leagues below.

Not mine, she thought.

Not mine, not mine, not mine, echoing like clockwork, as definitive as a metronome. Each time she looked at the snow and the city and the lights— not mine, none of it mine. She clenched her fists, buried the anger, didn’t give it an inch because she knew that it would take a mile.

Breathe.

She just had to breathe.

And there—

Against the clouds limned with gold in the sunlight, a black shape against the horizon, pulling her out of her downward spiral. A familiar silhouette, one that made her heart ease a little and warmth fill her chest just enough to chase away the sting of everything else.

Cassian, returning home.

Despite the early hour, his arms were already laden with packages and parcels, the last-minute gifts he’d told her he was flying down to the city to fetch. He had already known exactly what he was getting, it seemed; like buying gifts was just another military operation for him, one he executed with as much lethal precision as a battlefield manoeuvre. He had wasted no time at all, and bitterly Nesta counted the number of parcels in his arms and thought of the singular box beneath their bed, one she’d hidden there, containing a sleek dagger and a beautiful leather sheath embossed with the three stars so sacred to the Illyrians. A gift for her mate, bought as she tried so hard to understand what got him so excited this time of year.

Even that didn’t seem like enough now, not as he approached the House with a truly innumerable amount of gifts.

She didn’t seem like enough.

But even as she cursed herself again - hating the way her mind couldn’t just let it be; couldn’t give her a fucking rest from it all - she refused to let him see it. No— it wasn’t Cassian’s fault that her inability to adapt had her floundering, feeling like she was stuck in quicksand and moments from being dragged under. She refused to let it chase the smile from his face for even a second, no matter how fractured and broken she felt inside.

And so, as Cassian landed smoothly on the terrace, with snow in his hair and the wind colouring his cheeks, Nesta forced her shoulders back and fixed her most practised expression of calm on her face. But even as she opened the door to meet him outside, she couldn’t help but wonder if she had ever been more false.

***

Cassian felt the grin spread manic across his face as he stood in the falling snow, watching his mate step outside to meet him.

Would he ever get used to it? Get over it? The sight of Nesta Archeron standing in the doorway, the snow falling on her braided hair and collecting on her eyelashes, like she was the most perfect thing the Mother had ever seen fit to create… Coming home to her was like slipping into a dream. One he didn’t ever want to wake up from. He grinned again, feeling the bond wrap warm around his ribs, and every bone in his body was screaming for him to reach for her, to catch her in his arms, but the gifts were too heavy and cumbersome in his hands, keeping him standing there when all he wanted to do was crush her to his chest and keep her there, like they’d been parted for far longer than a handful of hours.

He’d have thrown each and every one of those parcels over the side of the House balcony if they hadn’t mostly been for Nesta anyway.

“Somebody’s been busy,” she quipped dryly, and Cassian wondered if he was imagining it, the way her eyes seemed dark and flat. He tilted his head, but she continued smoothly enough to convince him it was nothing but a trick of the light. “Does Rhysand have any coins left in his coffers or have you spent it all?”

“Sweetheart,” Cassian tsked. “I know better than to buy you gifts with Rhys’ money.”

She rolled her eyes, and delight coursed through him so fierce he really did want to throw those gifts over the railings, if only to take her in his arms and kiss her the way he needed to.

“I hope those aren’t all for me,” she said flatly, and he sensed something then, something sharp hiding just beneath the surface of her words, and when his eyes narrowed a fraction in response, something flickered across her face that looked damnably like concern. But concern for what? Cassian beat back his frown as he stepped forward, shooting her a wink instead.

“Not all of them.”

Not a lie. There was one for Azriel in there, too.

“You’re ridiculous.”

“Naturally.”

He grinned again, watching her stand there in the gently falling snow. Whatever emotion had briefly travelled across her face before was gone now, and she looked so godsdamned beautiful, even with the tip of her nose turning pink from the cold. Warmth spread through him, gathering in his chest as, softly, he said to her,

“Come on. Let’s get you inside before you freeze.”

Nesta nodded, holding out a hand to take some of the gifts from his arms— to help ease the burden any way she could. But Cassian shook his head, knowing that with one touch she’d probably manage to figure out exactly what was in every single one, and he’d be damned if anything was going to ruin the surprise.

So Cassian extended his wings, snow-covered and soaking, and shook them off, laughing as Nesta raised a hand to shield herself from the melting snow. She hissed, and Cassian laughed so loudly it echoed and bounced off the stone walls surrounding them.

“Beast,” she tossed over her shoulder as she retreated inside the House.

“Naturally,” he said again, following her inside.

***

“Here,” he said five minutes later, holding out a flat box that still held a little bit of warmth.

“What is it?” Nesta asked.

“Cherry pie,” Cassian said as she flipped open the lid, revealing the pastry decorated with cut-out stars and tiny crescent moons to celebrate the longest night of the year. Her fingers curled around the edges as she breathed in the scent of the sugar, warm and sweet. “It’s tradition on Solstice Eve.”

A tradition born on the very first Solstice he’d spent in the city. When he and Rhys and Az were wandering the streets, and they passed a bakery laying out fresh slices of warm cherry pie, dusted with sugar and so fragrant and sweet the entire street seemed saturated with warmth. Ever since, every year, they’d had cherry pie on Solstice Eve. And this year, though he knew there would be one waiting at Feyre and Rhys’ later that night when they gathered for dinner, he hadn’t been able to resist bringing Nesta a pie of her own— one they could share together, just the two of them.

Cassian waited for the spark in those devastatingly blue eyes. There usually was one, whenever there was sugar involved. All the House had to do was present her with a slab of chocolate cake and Nesta melted, and so Cassian waited, watching her look down at that cherry pie, the scent of it filling the air so decadently it almost made his mouth water.

But Nesta didn’t smile.

She swallowed, tilted her head to look at him, and he swore she took a deep breath, like it was taking all her strength to stand there with her face blank. He frowned— but Nesta caught it, taking a step back.

“Later,” she said, turning her face away. He sidestepped her, chasing her eyes, trying to meet her gaze, but it was like trying to catch the wind, and he felt her slipping through his fingers as she rounded him easily, her fingers alighting on his arm for just a heartbeat as she turned away. The touch was soft— brief and fleeting, and somewhat fucking mournful as she drew her hand away. He wanted to beg her to stay, to clamp his hand on top of hers and keep her there, if only for a moment. Just so he could figure out what the fuck was happening. “I’ll have the House put it in the kitchen for later.”

Cassian felt his jaw grow slack. Already he was extending a hand to catch her, to stop her, words rising on his tongue that all sounded a lot like wait, stop, tell me what’s wrong—

But his mate only turned and offered him a tight smile over her shoulder, her fingers flexing around the box containing the pie as she watched his frown, his confusion. Swiftly she made her way back, rising onto her toes to press a single chaste kiss to his cheek.

And then she was gone, and Cassian could only watch her go, wondering what in the hell had just gone wrong.

Taglist: (let me know if you'd like to be added or removed!) @asnowfern @podemechamardek @c-e-d-dreamer @lady-winter-sunrise @starryblueskies7 @melphss @sv0430 @that-little-red-head @misswonderflower @fwiggle @tanishab @xstarlightsupremex @burningsnowleopard @hiimheresworld @wannawriteyouabook @hereforthenessian @valkyriesupremacy @kale-theteaqueen @moodymelanist @talkfantasytome @pyxxie

#nessian #nessian fic

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theladyofdeath · 2 years ago

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hello! I'm loving @snelbz and your new Nissan story :) Was listening to a new song today on Spotify and I thought it just fit perfectly with the story (I say this having read only one chapter lol). It's called 'Look At Us Now (Honeycomb)' from the new Daisy Jones and the Six tv show! Thought I would share and see what you two thought !! Thank you as always for your wonderful writing.

Hi!! First of all, thank you for reading! I'm so glad you're liking it and hope you love where it ends up!

Also, this song?? WHY DID IT MAKE ME CRY?! You're completely right. This song fits this story perfectly. Omg, I'm emotional. "We unraveled a long time ago, We lost and we couldn't let it go" are you kidding me? also, verse 2? "Now, where do we stand? Baby, baby, baby, No one knows who you are, And if this was your plan, Tell me, tell me why, You've been cryin' in the dark"??? Like. Ugh. And do NOT GET ME STARTED ON THE ACCURACY OF THE BRIDGE. @snelbz listen to this song. It's the official theme song of this fic.

Sidenote: I am PUMPED for this tv show. I love Sam Claflin.

Thank you for sharing this! I'm now going to listen to this song on repeat. x

#nessian fics #better or worse #nice asks

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danikamariewrites · 7 months ago

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Hi pookie,

Can u plz make a fic with nessian where reader is hurt or injured and nessian is all protective and cute

Thanks love ya😜

Bruises and Tears

Nessian x reader

Warnings: mentions of injuries

Nesta knew you shouldn’t have gone with Cassian on that mission. That mission was too much for your first one. She was also pissed at Rhys for not sending her with you two. Nesta wanted to be there for your first.

Coming back from the Day Court with the Valkyries, Nesta knew something was wrong. Cassian had his side of the bond shut and yours was just still, which made Nesta uneasy.

Gwyn and Em trailed their best friend through the River House as she frantically raced to where you lay. They had tried to calm her down, but when Nesta had her mind set on something there was no deterring her.

Nesta halted when she saw Cassian being comforted by Azriel. He felt her presence, turning to see her angry and distraught face. “Nes,” he started, cut off by Nesta raising a slender hand. “What happened?” Nesta bit out.

Cassian took a deep breath, slowly striding over to his mate. Holding her shoulders Cassian looked down at Nesta. Some of her anger melting into worry. “She’s ok Nes. A broken arm, some bruises and scrapes, but that’s all.” Nesta’s eyes flutter shut as she breathes a sigh of relief. “She’s ok.” Nesta whispered back.

Wanting to give them alone time Azriel silently walked past the couple, tilting his head at Gwyn and Em to follow him.

———

After a week you were finally back on your feet. Still sore and bruised but better than before. Nesta and Cassian still haven’t stopped their hovering. They think your ribs will crack if you sigh too hard. And they won’t let you take this damn sling off. It’s very constricting.

To get a break from their mother henning you volunteered yourself for babysitting duty. Nyx wouldn’t pester you about your injuries. All the little boy is worried about his which toy he wanted to play with next. And he had plenty to pick from.

Sitting on the floor with Nyx you were playing teddy bear cafe. You were in charge of refilling tea cups while Nyx did everything else.

The little boy slumped down on the floor, his little wings drooping. “I’m bored.” Nyx huffs. “What! Ok, well how about a board game or one of the puzzles Auntie Amren got you?” You suggest. Nyx shrugs giving you a small pout. He perked up, “Can we play outside?” Excitement in his tone as he bounced on his toes.

“Sure.” You needed to tire him out for nap time anyway. Nyx jetted out the door ready to run around. What you didn’t realize was that you had to run around with him.

Closing the back door behind you, you felt his little hand tap your leg. “Your it! Now you have to catch me!” Nyx yelled, running as fast as his little legs would go. You sigh, holding your injured arm closer to your body. It’ll be fine. You just have to be careful.

After an hour of playing tag Nyx was finally getting tired. You were too. Panting, you stared down at the little guy. A smile on your face as you prepared to run after him one last time. “I’m gonna get you.” Nyx laughed as he ran right at you trying to go around you.

You let him. Then spin to chase after him. As you ran you ignored the uneven ground. You tripped over a divet, loosing your footing you tripped landing right on top of your healing arm. Biting your tongue to hold in your scream your eyes began to water.

Slowly standing Nyx runs over to you. He was bouncing on his feet, “Did I win, did I win?” You gave him a smile to hide your wince from the pain burning through your body. “Yup, you sure did pal. Let’s go inside for nap time.”

Once Nyx was settled you let yourself finally feel the pain. Your arm throbbing as you rocked back and forth on the couch, begging yourself not to cry. Removing the sling you find a new bruise spanning from your wrist to the middle of your arm. “Shit,” you murmur. A few tears escape your eyes as the front door opens.

The four file in, their conversation halting at the sight of you. You felt Nesta and Cassian’s worry through the bond. They were next to you in an instant, Nesta wiping your stray tears. Cass pulls you onto his lap, “what happened baby?”

“I was playing with Nyx in the garden and I fell.” They both coo at you. “I’ll get you a tonic for the pain.” Nesta says, pressing a kiss to your forehead. Cassian swayed you lightly taking the focus off your pain and on him. When Nesta returned you downed the tonic.

“You understand that you are not doing any strenuous activity until you’re fully healed.” Nesta said with no room for argument in her tone. You sigh, annoyed as you slump back into Cassian’s chest. “I guess,” you huff.

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