#no acknowledgement. just immediate overshadowing. and then they get all the praise and i... may as well not exist

[artificiary-fr]

Hello friends, i am the owner of a stress migraine and a lot of demoralizing anxiety because of some things thatve happened

How are all yall this stagnating saturday night?

[speechlessxx]

my house of stone, your ivy grows & now i’m covered in you.

{King!Steve Rogers x noblewoman!Reader}

with a side of Prince/King!Peter Parker x Reader

ROYALTY/MEDIEVAL AU

summary -> engaged to the Prince of Arachnia, the young maiden finds her heart calling out the name of another. 

warnings-> infidelity. age gap! (reader’s age isn’t explicitly said but she’s younger than Steve). poorly & awkwardly written SMUT.  (includes: unprotected sex, brief fingering, slight breeding kink). rambles. angst. fluff. lots of tension. bittersweet ending :)  

A/N -> for smut part, please scroll if you are not 18+. MINORS DNI

word count -> 12k+ !!! this one’s a lengthy one & i had no intentions of turning it into a series. it just got long. 

Buy Me A Kofi

At the ripe age of five-years-old, you were plucked from your childhood, abandoning all the childish whims and adventures to be groomed to be the perfect wife. No more rolling in the dirt with your older brothers or mucking about the stables with the horses or fencing with sticks that substituted the steel bladed swords.

It all quickly became sewing needles and recipes, cleaning and books balanced on your crown.

You were taught it all.

How to behave. How to stand or sit. How to greet and host. How to exist in silence because “a lady is to be seen and never heard,” as your teacher, Madam Morris, would say. The many lessons were engraved into your mind while the meaningless tasks and skills became muscle memory.

Be pious. Be kind. Smile. Be what your husband wants. Laugh. (no, not like that). Do as your husband says. Be interesting but not too much. Never overshadow your husband. Don’t disappoint or you will bring shame upon your family.

What a burden to place on the shoulders of a young teen though it was expected of you. Coming from an aristocratic family, it was all you ever knew: “get a husband and make us proud”.

As the years droned on and you approached adulthood, the pressure to marry became more and more prominent. And when you shed past your teen years as an unmarried young adult, the disappointment and shame began to show. Your family throwing distaste your way with snide remarks and mocking smirks.

The embarrassment felt as if it had been painted across your cheeks and you grew restless, convincing yourself to accept any opportunities of marriage just to be rid of their cruelty.

So, when the Prince of Arachnia arrived at your father’s estate and asked for permission to court you, you had no choice but to accept.

Prince Peter Benjamin Parker was nothing short of the perfect gentleman. As you walked, he’d ensure that you were safely tucked into his side opposite of the streets. He’d hold your hand steady as you exited carriages. He’d leave chaste kisses on your forehead or knuckles – almost always on your left ring finger – even though your chaperone would throw a disapproving glance his way.

You thought of him as charming with his tousled, dark brown curls with matching eyes that squinted as he smiled or laughed harder than he intended.

“He would make a great king someday,” your father would sing his praises. “And you, my dove, will be his fine queen.”

You were never fond of these comments, never finding any appreciation or gratitude when they were uttered to you. Though the thought of being queen would make any young girl giddy with excitement, you found an odd sensation of dread within you.

You weren’t sure where the feelings had originated from. Were you nervous about being a queen? About the responsibility of running not only an estate but an entire country as well? Or was it the fact you would forever be labeled as his queen rather than the queen? Did you detest the idea of belonging to another person for the rest of your life?

“Are you alright?” His voice brought you back into the present. You swallowed as you turned away from the window facing the garden of roses that your mother was so proud of to face the prince. You curtseyed although he’s told you many times it was unnecessary.

“I’m grand,” you lied with a weary smile though he bought it all the same.

Peter grinned a toothy smile as he took your hand in his. It was then you felt the weight of the engagement ring on your finger. The sapphire blue was an oval shape, large enough to cover the skin of your knuckle. The center jewel adorned a halo of smaller diamonds. All this sitting on the delicate white gold band that wrapped around your finger like a shackle.

He brought your hand to his lips, placing a kiss upon the sapphire. “I shall be counting down the days,” he whispered in the quiet room. You forced another smile and nodded.

“As will I.”

»————-　⚜　————-«

Arachnia wasn’t a large country nor was it tiny either. It had eight main roads that extended into the towns with the capital and its palace in the center. It had been said that the main roads were all equal in length so that everyone was at an equal distance from the palace though you weren’t so sure that there was truth to this. Your father’s estate sat near the south of Arachnia, in one of the nicer towns. The ride to Peter’s real home felt like an eternity.

It had been his idea, of course, that you be brought to the palace months ahead of the wedding. “Life in the castle is different to life in the towns,” he told you before, weeks into your courtship, “Everyone’s always watching.” He reasoned that the prying eyes needed to get used to the presence of his future queen, but you understood it all the same – that although it was crucial that you adjust to court, it was equally, if not more so, important that the court adjust to you.

“I will give you the grand tour,” he said as you put your head on his shoulder. The journey, although short, had picked at your energy. All you wanted was to close your eyes and sleep, but his excited chatter kept pulling you back into consciousness. As much as you wanted to tell him to pipe down, you knew you couldn’t. Not only was he your husband to be, but he was also your soon to be king. “There’s fountains and gardens – I had them plant roses like the ones in your mother’s – “

The words became muddled nonsense as you slowly dozed off. The journey and your sleepless night, picking at the skin on your fingers, had finally caught up to you, making your eyelids heavy with sleep.

You jolted awake as the carriage hit a bump. You and Peter’s head slammed into each other, waking you both. You groaned, rubbing the spot as he mirrored you.

“You alright?” Peter asked you. You nodded, still rubbing the spot. Peter leaned over and kissed it and you gave him a tight-lipped smile. “You’ve been rather quiet. Is there something on your mind?”

You shook your head. “No, your highness,” you said. “I am just a bit nervous, is all.”

“Don’t be.” Peter chuckled. “The kingdom will fall in love with you just as I have.”

“And if they do not? Shall you find another bride?”

Peter’s smile faltered before shaking his head. “Those who do not immediately fall for my queen are mad and I shall find them the greatest court physician to treat their delusions.” He wrapped his arm around your shoulder. You placed your head against his and took in a shaky breath.

There it was again. My queen. Another reminder that you no longer belonged to yourself. That as soon as vows are exchanged and he places another band on top of the enormous ring you already wore, you were completely his to own.

And suddenly that sweet moment, wrapped in your fiancé’s arms, was cut short as that familiar feeling of dread washed over you.

»————-　⚜　————-«

After weeks following your arrival in the center of Arachnia, it still didn’t feel like your home, rather it was Peter’s. The maids didn’t follow your orders nor did the kitchen staff. Heavens knows that the knights and the other noblemen wouldn’t acknowledge you. It felt as if no one knew your name, save for Prince Peter and his aunt, Lady May Parker.

You were merely a stranger in their court, the soon to be king’s guest.

Although the preparations for Peter’s coronation should’ve been your duty, Lady Parker seized the job, citing that you weren’t the queen just yet. “Let me alleviate you of this, Lady (Y/N).” She told you with a smile. “After your marriage, I shall step aside and allow you all the duties as the lady of the castle.” And in many ways, you were grateful that this was not your responsibility for the coronation of Prince Peter Parker had been long awaited for.

After Peter’s uncle, King Benjamin, passed and with Peter’s father long gone before then, the young prince was suddenly eyed to be the king. However, the councilmen thought that the boy was too young – too green to be king. They waited years until Peter came of age and once he finally did, they refused a peaceful transition of power. Instead, there were harsh rumors that the kingdom would be handed to Brooklyn’s King.

This debacle led to rumors of unrest and threats of civil war. It felt as if the entire continent held its breath as it stared at Arachnia, waiting for the violence to begin.

If King Anthony of Starken and Lady Parker did not intervene, then there would’ve been lives lost and a country torn. An agreement was made between House Parker and their council: that before Peter may take the throne, he must either be married or engaged, so that the line of succession may be secured.

And with your presence and Peter’s sapphire ring, the crown became his in an instant.

Nearly three weeks before his coronation, lords and ladies along with royals from other countries flocked to Arachnia to celebrate its king.

Lady Parker and Prince Peter introduced you to so many people in the coming days that none of their names truly stuck. All except one.

King Steven Rogers of Brooklyn.

The tall, broad man strode through the castle halls. His royal blue clothes made his eyes pop in the daylight. You thought he was beautiful. His presence demanded attention and he walked with a knowing smirk. Cocky. Arrogant. You profiled as he stood in front of Peter, towering over him.

Peter, still a prince, bowed to him as you did. “You’re younger than I expected.” The King’s voice was contradicting to his loud presence. His tone was even and steady like soft currents of a river or the expert strokes of a painter upon a canvas. You didn’t realize he was speaking to you until Peter called your name.

“King Steven, allow me to introduce my bride to be, Lady (Y/N).” Peter’s brow glistened with sweat though he stood tall. He was nervous. You could tell by the way his pitch was higher than it usually was. Under the king’s eye, he felt inferior. Insecure, even. Because although Peter was charming and slender, King Steven was intimidatingly handsome and built. Peter looked like a prince whereas Steven exuded the confidence of the king and looked like it, too.

You knew of the history between Brooklyn and Arachnia. There had been rumors that if Prince Peter could not get the crown, that the entire country would become part of Brooklyn’s, part of this other king’s domain.

“It’s a pleasure, my lady,” the king smiled at you and your eyes rounded as butterflies erupted from your stomach. He took your hand in his and you felt goosebumps rise all over your skin. A nervous, ragged breath escaped you as he brought your hand to his lips, pressing a kiss upon your knuckles like Peter’s done a million times.

But your reaction was different. Your face went hot, and you could hear your heartbeat in your ears. You could feel it between your legs, a feeling you had never felt before. Pulsing. Throbbing.

King Steven’s hand lingered over yours for a few seconds more, thumb grazing your skin and over the sapphire. You suddenly felt embarrassed – as beautiful as the ring was, it was so large that it looked odd on your dainty hand.

“Beautiful ring,” he complimented with a nod to Peter. “Excellent taste.” It wasn’t clear if the king was complimenting the ring or the young woman who wore it and no one dared question such a distinguished man.

You pulled your hand away from his with a bow of your head. You couldn’t look him in the eye for a second more. “Thank you for joining us, your majesty.”

The king smiled at your fiancé before nodding. “I look forward to your coronation, Peter. I’m sure it’ll be a pleasant event.”

You forced a smile as you and your fiancé greeted the next guest. The pleasantries and introductions fell upon deaf ears because as you looked up, searching through the crowd, your eyes immediately found his already staring back at you.

»————-　⚜　————-«

It felt as if there was a party every single day. A festival in the courtyard. A feast every night. You began to wonder where was all this money coming from – were the people being taxed heavily for the enjoyment of the upper class? Lady Parker assured you that Arachnia was well funded and that where the expenses exceeded their budget, they were handled by King Anthony, who considered it an early marriage present.

You sat like a decorated ornament next to Peter, surrounded by the other royals at a round table. You felt out of place in a gown made from your town’s finest tailor whereas the queens and princesses around you wore one-of-a-kind pieces. You were reminded, again, that you were just an aristocrat’s daughter, the fiancé of a king sitting among the men and women that bards wrote songs about.

You felt as if you were set to be the butt of the joke in another round of ridicule as King Anthony drew his attention from teasing Peter to you.

“You,” he began, words a bit slurred due to the ale in his overflowing cup, “are very gorgeous. My love,” he directed to his wife, Queen Virginia, “don’t you agree?”

“Yes, you are a delight, Lady (Y/N).” The strawberry blonde smiled at you. You returned the smile, timidly.

“Likewise, your majesty,” you returned before nodding your head to the rest of the table. “All of you are wonderful.” Truthfully, many of their names went over your head and to save yourself the embarrassment, you refrained from calling any of them by name, only saying simple titles like your majesty and my lord or lady.

“Lady (Y/N),” the princess from the foreign land, Sokovia you think, called your attention. You believe her name was Wanda, or at least that was what the King of Hawksview called her. “Are you excited for whatever adventures marriage will bring you?” Her tone was drunk and teasing. It was clear what she was alluding to though you weren’t quite sure if you caught on.

“Oh, dear,” Peter chuckled, awkwardly, obviously understanding. His face a beet red as he patted your hand that sat on your lap. “Dove, you do not need to answer.”

“Dove?” King Steven, the one man you knew by name, questioned from across the round table. He sat directly in front of you and you swore he sat there deliberately.

“It’s what my father calls me,” you explained though your voice was a bit scratchy, your throat dry. You coughed before taking a sip from your barely touched ale, finding the taste quite revolting. You shifted uncomfortably in the seat as you felt the prying eyes of the Brooklyn King stare through you as if you were glass.

“Dove.” He repeated, trying the petname out. “Sweet. Innocent.”

“Oh, you stop teasing, Steve,” the woman with dark red hair rolled her eyes. You remembered her being called Nat though you did remember her from your history lessons. Queen Natalia Romanova of Widow’s Peak, the queen who paved the way for women on the battlefield. She was revered and you were in awe when you met her.

“If we’re teasing, shall we jest about how Steven has yet to marry?” The prince from Asgard laughed. He pushed his long black hair over his shoulder as his older brother, the blonde – the King – swatted at his forearm with the back of his hand as if to say be quiet.

Steven smirked, eyes shifting to his lap, before chuckling. “Laugh and tease all you want,” he said, grabbing his cup and bringing it to his lips.

“Why is it you haven’t married?” Queen Natasha’s husband, Bruce – you think – asked.

Attention shifted back to Brooklyn’s king as he shrugged, taking another swig from his cup. His eyes darted around the table as if gaging – studying – the group.

You found it odd. Many of the royals around you considered the others their closest friends, yet here he was, a mystery to them still. It was as if he was content with going unseen and unheard. You could understand.

“C’mon, Stevie,” King Anthony taunted with a pet name. The blonde’s jaw tensed for a moment but quickly released. You frowned at that – was there tension between the two kings? “Handsome, wealthy king with vast holdings and a powerful kingdom, yet no marriage? It’s like you’re not trying, Steven.”

The Brooklyn king chuckled again, brows lifting with an amused look. His eyes met yours and you felt your face go hot again. Your gown shifted underneath the table as your knee bumped Peter’s when you crossed your legs. He looked away.

“I would not get married simply because I need a crown,” his eyes shifted to Peter before shifting back to his cup, “or I need an alliance, or my country requires finances or resources. Brooklyn’s striving under my rule.” He said it so calmly and smugly as if he weren’t throwing condescending comments about his friends’ marriages right in front of them.

“If I were to get married,” Steven’s ocean eyes met yours again like the waves crashing into a shore, “it would be because I’m in love.”

You shifted in your seat, that pulsing, throbbing ache returning as you held his stare. You bit your lip before nervously breaking the eye contact to pick at the bread roll on your plate.

You suddenly jumped when Peter draped his arm around your shoulder, completely unaware that he was about to do so, too preoccupied to appear occupied. He shot you a worried glance, but you gave him a tight smile and a nod.

“Well, I, for one,” he smiled, “am marrying for love.” Peter pressed a kiss to your temple, and you felt your smile drop for a second. Just a mere second – maybe even less.

No one noticed, you assured yourself with a relieved exhale. You scanned the round table to find that everyone smiled at you and your fiancé with dopey grins, staring at the two children in love. However, Steven’s was different.

No… The king had a knowing smirk on his face as if to say, I saw.

»————-　⚜　————-«

With the coronation in a fortnight, you and Peter found yourselves on edge. Your shoulders always felt tense which left an ache in your neck, leaving you to rub out the knots but to no avail.

Peter’s nerves made him jittery. During meals, his leg bounced up and down with nerves. The sudden movement often shaking the table, leaving you in an annoyed silence. To cope with his pending coronation nerves, the young prince whisked himself into meaningless tasks and hobbies in hopes to distract himself.

Unfortunately, this meant that he often left you to yourself, leaving you to dwell in your unease on your own.

You confided in Lady Parker about your nerves though she returned your concern with a small frown. “You aren’t getting coronated, why are you nervous?” She chuckled dismissively. You nearly snapped then but was able to stop yourself before saying anything offensive to Lady Parker.

Deciding that your thoughts were better left unsaid, you isolated yourself in the stairwell on the south wing of the castle. In your time here at Arachnia, this quickly became your favorite spot. The south wing was nowhere near the bustling crowds of guests and their parties, making it the quietest place in the castle at times. There was a wide window that stood above the stairs; it brought in gorgeous sunlight and you often found yourself basking in its warmth.

However, with your troubled thoughts, the south wing stairwell’s window brought you no comfort at all as you gnawed on the bump on the inside of your cheek. It was a habit you picked up when you were being taught to be a lady – a lady is to be seen and never heard – so you opted to biting back your opinions and retorts, whether it be physical or metaphorical.

Though Lady Parker was right, the coronation was Peter’s worry alone, it would not only be Peter that would be judged and watched by the entire continent the moment that crown is on his head. Even now as a mere lady, the fiancé of their soon to be king, you were burdened with such scrutiny and you were sure that this would only increase three-fold once Peter was crowned king.

The pressures would only worsen once you were dubbed Peter’s queen.

So, you sat pensively in your thoughts near the top of the stairs as you enjoyed the last few months of peace you had left.

“For an engaged woman, I do find you alone too many times,” a voice took you from your thoughts as it carried through the empty stairwell. You looked up and met the amused smirk of King Steven Rogers.

You stood up from your spot and found your footing at the top of the staircase before you curtseyed. “Your majesty,” you greeted.

“Most brides tend to cling to their fiancé, fighting to be by their side every waking moment,” the king mused, quirking an eyebrow up, “but not you.”

“I suppose.”

“May I?” He gestured to the unoccupied seat next to you. You bit your lip before nodding, sitting down again, but this time with the king’s warmth next to you. “Is something on your mind, Lady (Y/N)?”

“No, your majesty,” you said a bit too quickly and he saw through you.

He tutted, knowingly. “I know a troubled lady when I see one,” he pressed. “Please, my lady, speak freely as if I am just a friend.”

“I hadn’t realized I was friends with a king,” you muttered. You felt his eyes on you as you tucked a loose strand of hair behind your ear and stared at your lap.

The conversation stilled as the silence built, but you found comfort in the king’s presence. Although his eyes made you uneasy and nervous, he brought you a strange sense of peace.

His soft chuckle pulled you from your thoughts again. “Lady (Y/N).” He said your name and you glanced over at him with a brow cocked up. “I noticed that you don’t speak, not often, at least.”

“I was taught to never speak unless spoken to.”

He scoffed. “That’s a habit that you’ll grow out of.” He saw confusion flash through your expression and smiled, gently. “A strong, respected queen demands attention as she enters a room. Every step she takes must be a stride of confidence so that no one ever questions her status.”

“A status that my husband, the king, gives me. I cannot over-step. I would undermine him.”

“Peter’s a king,” Steven corrected. “I never said you would over-step, but a true king would ensure that he and his queen are in equal footing.” He cocked his head to the side as he noticed your grimace. “You don’t like that.”

“I beg your pardon?” You asked before quickly added, “your majesty.”

“Being called his queen,” he clarified with a smile.

Panicked, you began, “I am humbled to wear his ring on my finger – that he considered me for marriage and that – “

“You are not on trial,” he interrupted, quickly with a laugh. “It’s merely an observation.” You nodded, awkwardly. “In my opinion, I feel as if a marriage – any marriage, whether royal or otherwise – is a partnership, but unfortunately, many see it as an ownership.”

“That’s just not how our society sees it.” You muttered with a shake of your head.

“Where is your fiancé? It’s too often that I find you alone. I shall share a word with him about his manners.” He joked and you laughed lightly at his attempt to lighten the mood.

You sighed, fidgeting with the sapphire on your finger. “He’s … preoccupied.”

Steve frowned at that but abruptly stood, stretching his hand out to you. “Then, come, my lady, I shall escort you to the festival to enjoy this beautiful day.”

Your hands flew to your face as you shook your head, defiantly. “Oh, god no!” You groaned. He amusedly raised his eyebrows at you. “I hate leaving the castle to join the others… Everyone just stares at me. It’s unsettling!”

Steve laughed and leaned down to pull you to your feet. Although you stood at the top of the staircase and he a few steps beneath you, he was still taller than you.

“They’re admiring their future queen,” he tried. He took your hands in his and you felt a shiver run down your spine as the goosebumps rose. “And from where I stand, I must say, she is truly a vision… Even if she’s moping.”

The butterflies didn’t cease to exist as they fluttered excitedly under his stare. You bit your lip and avoided eye contact, staring at your hands clasped in his. His words lifted your confidence, but his presence made you nervous and you didn’t quite understand why.

He whispered your name; fingers reaching out beneath your chin and lifted your chin. Blue eyes staring deep into your wide ones and for a split second he glanced down at your lips.

“You can tell me to stop.”

He was so close to you. Your noses were nearly touching.

“What if I don’t want you to?” You whispered. You held your breath, but he gladly stole it as he pressed his soft, plump lips onto yours.

You swore it was almost instinct… It had to be. You moved in sync. With your lips pressed against his, you felt this feeling of belonging – something you hadn’t felt in all your time in the palace of Arachnia, in all your life. In all your time spent with Peter, it never felt like this.

Your hands fisted his dirty blonde hair as his hands cupped your face, holding you there… keeping you in the moment and you swore time stopped.

You were breathless when you finally pulled away. Eyes wide in realization.

You had just given your first kiss away to a man that wasn’t your fiancé and there was no ounce of regret in either of you.

»————-　⚜　————-«

Time passed so slowly when all you’d wish for was that it’d up – skipping to a time where you and Peter were already married and the royals have all vacated Arachnia and back to their own lands, where the king that occupied your mind was long gone.

In the days that followed, you avoided each like the plague. You’d turn the corner and see Peter then immediately turn the other way or you’d bow your head down so low so that you could avoid Steven’s fixated stare as you passed him in the corridors.

The only time you couldn’t escape the two was during meals. Although during breakfast and lunch you usually spent alone, it was during the feasts of dinner that you could not escape the lingering stare of King Steven nor the possessive arm of Prince Peter.

“You’re awfully quiet,” Peter whispered in your ear. You were guilt-ridden as you stared at the concern that filled his deep brown eyes. You muttered that you were alright just a bit tired although under the king’s eyes you have never felt more alive. But he accepted your answer nonetheless.

“Are we interrupting,” teased King Anthony with a playful grin. “Shall we order the absence of everyone in the room so that you two may have all the privacy in the world?” His wife slapped his shoulder with a chuckle as you and Peter bashfully apologized – Peter because he was truly embarrassed for being caught whispering in your ear and you because you felt Steven’s eyes staring through your soul. “Tell us, Lady (Y/N), how did such a lovely lady such as yourself end up with a brute of a prince like Peter?”

You swallowed as all their attention turned to you. You stared across the table at King Steven who eyed you with a smirk. His elbows rested on the table with his hands clasped together, head resting on top of his knuckles, as if taunting you, egging you on. You tore your eyes away as you focused on your lap.

“Well… uh – “

“We met at her brother’s party,” Peter announced, proudly. You took your cue and nodded with a small grin and kept silent. “My father and hers were friends before he passed, and so they invited my aunt and I. We had no choice but to accept, and thankfully, we did. She was truly a sight, this one.” You forced a laugh as the other chuckled. “I knew then she had to be mine, this little dove.”

You grimaced but quickly covered it up by grabbing your cup of untouched ale. Your eyes flicked over to Steven who was already staring at you. He cocked an eyebrow up at you as your eyes met. You brought the ale to your lips and he stared as your lips pressed against the rip of the chalice but never drank anything.

The conversation drifted to another topic, but you excused yourself, telling Peter you were exhausted. He nodded with a smile and leaned in to kiss you and your eyes widened, turning your head – had he wanted your first kiss to be in front of all these people? Marking you as his? His lips pressed against your cheek and you muttered goodbye to him and bid a goodnight to the others.

You wondered aimlessly throughout the corridors, lost in your thoughts. With everyone in the grand hall for dinner, the castle was felt empty, and your shoes clicked against the tiles and echoed through the halls. After minutes of silent walking, you felt the hairs at the back of your neck prick up and goosebumps run down your arms.

You turned to find the dark hallway staring back at you. You frowned before you turned and ran into a sturdy build of a man.

“I thought you retired for the night?” and you recognized the voice immediately.

“Your majesty,” you whispered, bowing awkwardly to King Steven.

He chuckled as you apologized frantically. He shushed you, seizing your hands but you snatched them away. Steven frowned. “You’re avoiding me.”

“What happened shouldn’t have happened,” you hissed.

A playful smirk replaced his scowl as he tilted his head, tauntingly. “But you could’ve stopped me. You could’ve said no.”

“Of course,” you chuckled dryly. “It’s always the woman’s fault. Men can never take responsibility for their misdoings and kings,” you spat out as if it were poison on your tongue. “are no better.”

“Was it your first kiss?”

Your tongue darted out and wet your bottom lip and you didn’t miss the way his eyes glanced down. Embarrassment washed over you like a wave as your shoulders slumped. Were you that bad?

“It was, wasn’t it?” He smiled. “I wouldn’t have known… but you were a natural – “

“Don’t flatter me.” You snapped and he laughed.

“So, I had the honor of being your first kiss…” He muttered. Steven’s hand grabbed your bicep, which was significantly smaller than his, and pulled you closer to him.

“Your majesty – “He shushed you as he kissed you again in that corridor, but you pulled away abruptly, not allowing yourself to melt into him. “We can’t. I am engaged to the prince.”

Steven rolled his eyes. “But you don’t want to be. Others may dismiss it as nerves, cold feet, even, but,” he tsked, “I know better.”

“You don’t know me. You know nothing about me.”

“I know enough.” He whispered. “Enough to know that I want you.”

“I have to be married to the prince. I wear his ring. I live in his castle.”

“And enjoy a loveless marriage? He can dote on you and you can learn to love him, yes… I’ve seen it in my parents’ union and in my friends’, but you’ll never truly be happy, no…” He told you, brows furrowed and shook his head.

“And I’d be happy as your mistress?” You scoffed, shaking your head, but you made no motions to step away. “A noblewoman reduced to nothing but a king’s play-thing? The dishonor, the shame – “

“I never said you’d be my mistress.” Steven shook his head as he cupped your jaw.

“And you intend to marry me?” You laughed as if he had said the funniest joke you’ve ever heard. And it was. It was hilarious to think that he was being anything but truthful. You were sure he was jesting with you. Empty words. Empty promises. But his stare was serious.

“I want you.”

“You want the idea of me,” you corrected. “The idea that you can take another king’s wife. Kings throughout history are all the same. Covet another man’s wife, his property, or his land. Just to prove you are better.” You shook your head. “It’s a pissing contest for you. It’s treason for me.”

“I am a king.” He told you and you rolled your eyes.

“Not mine.” You whispered. “Your teasing, your jokes. Your eyes… they linger in a way only Peter’s should, and it has to stop.”

“I want you.” He repeated. “And I know you want me, too.”

“I don’t – “

“Or else you would’ve walked away. You could’ve pulled your arm from me – I’m not holding onto you tightly. You could’ve run off to your little prince, but you’re avoiding him, too. Is it guilt, my lady?” He asked you, leaning down and whispering into your ear. Your breath hitched as his lips ghosted over the shell of your ear, kissing the skin beneath it. “Because you know you don’t want the boy… but you’re too kind to hurt him.”

“You’re trying to get me killed.” You stifled a moan as his lips left a trail of wet kisses down your neck. “Shunned and humiliated – “

“I want to be yours,” he confessed.

A sudden burst of laughter had you jump from each other. Your back pressed against the wall as he took a step back with a smirk. In the distance, you could hear drunken men and their courtesans stumble about the castle, doors slamming shut. The feast must’ve been over, and the halls were soon to be crowded again.

You two held each other’s stares as you exhaled a breath you didn’t know you were holding. The moonlight that slipped through the curtains of the windows had his deep blue eyes gleaming and he was marvelous view.

»————-　⚜　————-«

The room was stuffy and the jewelry that adorned your neck and wrists were heavy. They weighed you down as if to remind you of the pressures that your new life held – what lay ahead of you. The dress you wore was a combination of white and gold. You looked regal like the betrothed of a king should look like. You stood in the crowd next to King Anthony and his wife, behind you was King Steven and his piercing stare.

The feelings that you held for Steven were wrong and you knew that. You often wished that Peter had been flawed – an unfaithful man or a cruel one but he was the opposite. He was kind and gentle albeit a bit dismissive or not present at times. The guilt gnawed at you each time you and the Brooklyn king met behind closed doors, or in the secluded library, or in the depths of the rose garden, planted especially for you by Peter’s order, but you didn’t care.

It was innocent, really – at least that’s what you told yourself. The meetings always started the same. Bickering and joking. He had even taken an interest in tutoring you about chess – “a game for kings,” he would say. Although he had beat you every game, you never minded because all the meetings ended the same – with your lips pressed against his and you melting into his touch.

The crowds all stood as Peter entered the throne room. He was dressed as a king in his house colors – red, blue, gold. He was sweaty and his hands were clasped together nervously. He shot a glance your way as he walked by and you gave him a soft, encouraging nod. He returned it with a smile as he kneeled before the throne.

The priest slipped a ring on his finger and he was later handed the scepter and the orb. You caught the way the scepter slipped due to his clammy hands – not too much but just enough to have him fumble. Behind you, you heard Steven chuckle and you shot him a look as if to tell him to behave and he shook his head at you with a grin.

The crown was placed onto Peter’s head and he hesitantly stood. He was unbalanced, weighed down, but he took each step towards the throne with stride and a proud smile.

“Long live the king!” You and the entire crowd chanted in unison though you were almost certain that Steven didn’t say a word.

The party held afterwards was filled with dancing and music, but you were tied to Peter’s side the entire evening as he thanked his guests and accepted their congratulations, all eager to get in favor with their new king.

Instead of the usual round table, Peter and his family – Lady Parker and you – were seated in a long table at the front of the grand hall. The rest of the royals scattered in other tables near yours. You picked at your food, boredom sinking in as another nobleman approached.

You glanced up and met Steven’s eyes. He brought his chalice up as if to salute you and you softly laughed before turning your attention to the duke. The conversation was dull with fake pleasantries and complaints of lost land – Peter promised the duke that he would look into it. You remembered Steven tell you that kings should make no promises that he could not uphold. and you wondered if Peter had any intentions of honoring it.

“Do you want to dance?” Peter asked you after the man left, offering you his hand. You smiled and nodded, taking it.

He pulled you onto the dancefloor, joining the other couples. Peter’s hold on you was tight as if you would run away or disappear. The crown on his head was just a little big and would slip over his forehead. You’d giggle and push it back up.

He pulled you close to him and swayed to the music. “This is grand,” he told you. “The crown, a beautiful bride.” You hummed in agreement though you didn’t entirely adore the idea – not as much as you used to. You hated being compared to that awful crown as if you were just an accessory to him. “And … In a few days’ time, my dove, we are to be wed.”

“What?” You shook your head with a dry laugh, taking it as a joke. “Your high – majesty,” you corrected, and he beamed at the title, “we are set to be married in the late spring. Not in a few days.”

Peter frowned. “Had no told you?” You shook your head, no. He sighed. “I suppose I should’ve… The council believes that it’s best we get married immediately. Now, that I’ve got the crown, they say I need heirs,” you blanched at the idea, “and besides, the other royal families of Marvel are already here.” Your breath hitched as the realization set it. “Well, aside from King Steven, he’s one to never attend weddings.”

“Peter – “you shook your head. The panic beginning to rise. Despite being trained for this very day since you were young, you were convinced you weren’t ready. You told yourself the anxiety was from the idea of being queen, but the truth was – the anxiety was from the idea of being wed… to Peter.

“May I cut in?” You didn’t hear Peter’s response just that a pair of familiar hands seized yours and your waist, pulling you flush against his body. “Are you okay?”

You stared up at Steven’s worried eyes, brows lifted and lines of concern all over his forehead. You shook your head, tears brimming in your eyes. You hated the idea that you would be Peter’s completely, and that Steven would never be yours.

“Peter said we are to be wed in a few days,” you uttered. The words didn’t feel right. Your voice was shaking as you held back your tears. Steven’s jaw dropped before he nodded. “Steve,” his eyes stared into yours, “I don’t want this.”

“And what is it do you want?” Steven asked you. He was hopeful although naively so. And in many ways, you were as well to believe that your affections for Steven could extend to something more. But reality set in, you were engaged to a king – just not the king you wanted.

“I want to marry you,” you confessed though voice hushed, afraid that any ears would hear your treasonous words. You let out a shaky breath as you stared at him before shaking your head. The idea that you fell in love with a man after knowing him for only three weeks was preposterous. “Or at least… that I want to be with you.”

Steven smiled softly at your confession – words he had been hoping to hear ever since he cornered you in the empty hallway. He leaned in and your eyes widened, but he brought his lips to your ear and whispered, “keep your chamber doors unlocked tonight.”

»————-　⚜　————-«

One of the peculiar things about your move to Arachnia’s palace was your bedroom. It was rather enormous for the fiancé of the now king. When you first arrived, you expected a room modest in size though not as big as this – especially since you’d move into Peter’s chambers once you were married. The mattress was pressed against the back wall between two large windows that never opened. Bookshelves filled with novels though no work area – no desk or study. Instead, you were given a vanity. Besides those pieces, the room was pure empty space.

You used to joke to yourself that you were just a prisoner who adorned the prince’s, now king’s, jewels and a fine title.

You stood by the window, watching the fireworks that celebrated the coronation. You swore you could see the towns in the distance, all lit up with anticipation. Peter would soon be making his rounds throughout the country as its official king. Would it happen before you were married or after? Would you be asked to join him as his queen?

You stared down at your ring finger. The sapphire staring tauntingly back at you. It shackled you to a man you didn’t want. It reminded you of your family’s side eyes and low whispers when you didn’t immediately get married once you were of age, or the hushed voices and stares of the other nobles as they judged your every move calling you unworthy to marry a prince, let alone a king.

And all you could think was – to hell with it all.

A soft knock was heard from the wooden door of the chamber and you walked towards it. The stone tiles were cold against your bare feet and the doorknob even colder against your already freezing hand. With a twist of the doorknob, a smile formed on your lips as Steven came to view.

You hurriedly pulled him inside, eyes scanning the now empty hallway, before closing it.

He eyed you up and down and smiled, admiring you – hair undone and natural, face free of any makeup or colors staining your cheeks or lips, no gown with a corset that clung onto your body that left you with no room to breathe.

You were beautiful and oh, how he’d kill to see you like this every day.

“Did anyone see you?” You asked him, softly, though within the thick walls of the castles and in the privacy of your chambers no one would hear you.

Steven shook his head, one hand finding your waist and the other cupping the side of your face. “They never do, do they?” He whispered, leaning down to press a kiss to your lips.

You pulled away, leaning into his chest, settling into his warmth. You loved being in his embrace – it was safe and warm like a small cottage in the countryside with no judgmental stares or rumors whispered about.

You realize you could live like this until your last day – and with your intentions, that final day might be quickly approaching. “Why is it you asked to meet me here?”

Steven’s jaw ticked. Truthfully, he had no real answer. He could’ve asked to meet anywhere, and the risks were just the same. The mere act of meeting you in private was damning, no matter what he intended.

He thought that admiring you from across a crowded room, under the cover of hundreds all staring at you, too, would be enough. He thought his eyes would go unnoticed. He told himself that his attraction would be fleeting, but it wasn’t – and it became clear the moment he pressed his lips against yours at the top of the south stairwell.

“Steve?”

He sighed. “I… I’m not quite sure if I’m honest with you, Lady (Y/N).”

You smiled to yourself. In the time you’ve known King Steven, he had always been so smug, so confident. Every step had a direction and every word so sure, but you’ve reduced him to a man begging for the affection of a woman.

You pulled yourself from his chest and stared up at him before you stood on the tips of your toes to press a kiss onto his lips.

It was as if you two were molded together or made from the same cloth. Lips pressed together as if they had always belonged there.

His large hands found the backs of your thighs, hoisting you up, wrapping your legs around his tapered waist. You felt the heat rise to your face when that familiar throbbing feeling between your legs came back – and with your cunt pressed against the middle of his body, you were sure he could feel it, too.

Your back pressed against the soft, silk sheets of your bed. Steven draped over you like ivy covering the castle’s stone walls.

The framework creaked beneath your combined weight as he began to grind aimlessly against your center, eliciting a gasp from you as it helped the ache from deep within you.

He smirked into the kiss, but you caught him off guard yet again when you whispered, “I – I want you.” He pulled away, taken back. “I want all of you, Steve, please – “

“(Y/N) – “

He began to climb off you, but you sat up, hands cupping his face and staring deep into his eyes. You shook your head as you gave him a quick kiss.

Foreheads touching, you told him, “if I am to go marry and live in this hell, I might as well be granted a taste of heaven.”

“You will be ruined – “he whispered though the idea made his cock twitch in his trousers. You jumped as you felt it too.

You shook your head again, “how can you ruin anything, Steve?”

Steve licked his lips as he tried to fight off his morals. The devil and the angel on his shoulders disappeared and became one – the beautiful maiden beneath him, begging for him to take her.

“If we do this,” he whispered as he nudged your cheek, lips kissing your jaw, “there will be no going back, (Y/N).”

“I want to be yours, Steve,” you told him, honestly. “I – I love you.”

And that’s all it took to have his lips ravish yours, hands roaming, desperately grabbing on to what he could. He pulled away and grabbed your hand. He slid the ring off your finger, tossing it onto the table next to your bed before he pressed his lips to yours once again.

You heard a rip and you gasped as the cold air hit your bare skin. Steven’s hands pushed the torn fabric off away from your body, throwing the ruined white silk behind his shoulder.

He pulled away from you, admiring the view beneath him – the woman spread out before him like an offering, nipples perked in the cold winter air, mouth ajar as she panted, and the perfect, untouched pussy.

“I love you, too.”

He began to undress, and you couldn’t take your eyes off this Herculean being in front of you. He was thick and broad, the muscles that were arranged all over his body were hypnotizing as were the scars undoubtfully from all his training and his time spent in wars.

He was a god in the body of the king, and you wondered how you got so lucky.

Steven began to undo the strings that held his pants up and you watched with you lip between your teeth. The anticipation, alone, killed you. He pushed down his pants and your eyes widened at his massive cock – tanner than the rest of his skin, with a red angry tip, thick veins, and clear liquid coming from it.

He saw your uncertain expression and he raised his brows at you. “I – I –“you began to stammer.

“Don’t tell me you’re backing out now, little one,” Steven whispered. His hands reached out and cupped your cheek, hungry eyes scanned your body and your mouth went dry. The throbbing within you was relentless and made you clench your thighs together. “You’re beautiful.”

Your eyes looked away, bashfully, as his hands explored you – cupping your breasts and tracing the curves of your body. All Steven wanted was for all of you to be his.

“Look at me,” he whispered, and you hesitantly looked back at him. He had a soft smile and adoring eyes as his fingers slipped through your folds. You let out a soft gasp and your eyes fluttered closed as the ache was relieved by his touch. “Look at me,” Steven repeated, and you forced your eyes open to stare at him. Your lover smirked as he found your small bundle of nerves and rubbed tight circles around it.

It felt as if something within you had blossomed and you couldn’t help but grind into his touch, but he tutted at you, using his free hand to hold your hips down. “You’re soaked, my love,” Steven whispered, leaning down, and nipping at the base of your neck. Hard enough for you to gasp but not enough to leave marks. “Already so wet and I’ve yet to do anything.”

“It’s just my reaction to you,” you confessed, heat rising to your face.

You tried to avert your eyes away from his piercing stare, but he tsked and pinched your inner thigh. You hissed in return and brought your stare back to him. “Don’t make me tell you again, (Y/N),” Steven warned.

You nodded, speechless as his fingers wandered further down, ghosting over your untouched opening. You let out a shaky breath.

“Steven – “you moaned as he sunk one long, thick, skilled finger inside of you.

“You’re so tight,” the king noted with a smirk. He relished in the idea that he would be the first to have you and he wished that he’d be the only one to have you forever.

“Steven, I want you… Please – “

He tsked at you with a quick shake of his head. His lips pressed against yours again, silencing your soft whines and protests. “I need to open you up, my love,” he told you, lips still against yours, “or else you might get hurt.” He pressed another finger into you, and you pulled away from his lips.

The back of your head pressed against the mattress as another moan escaped you. The king began to scissor your opening. The stretch was tolerable though still uncomfortable and had your breath shuddering.

“You’re doing so well,” he praised you, nose tracing your jaw. His lips kissed the column of your throat.

You groaned when his fingers began to thrust, opening you up to him. You heard the faint sound of your arousal on his fingers, the wetness spilling onto your thighs, too. Your hands tangled up into the king’s long, dark blonde hair, pulling him into you as he added a third finger, effectively stretching you out.

“Are you alright?” He asked you, fingers thrusting into you in a rhythm of their own. You nodded, eyes staring at the top of the canopy over your bed and hands pushing the king flush against you’re the joint between your neck and shoulder. He kissed the skin there, trying not to suck on it to leave you with his marks – marks that young Peter would undoubtfully see on your wedding night.

You gasped as you felt this tightening knot in the depths of your stomach. “You almost there, my love?” Steven asked and you nodded though you weren’t sure where there was. Your thighs tightened around him. You whined when his fingers left your heated core right on the precipice of pleasure, leaving you with an emptiness. Steven chuckled.

“I was – “

“First time you get to cum will be around my cock,” he told you brazenly and it felt as if your entire body flushed at his words. He brought his fingers to his lips and your eyes widened when he began to suck on them, and he groaned. “You taste so sweet, my lady.” The king quirked up an eyebrow at your curious expression as he swiped his fingers against your lips. “Have a taste, my love.”

Your tongue reluctantly darted out over your lips, gathering the sweet yet musky taste of your essence. Your hand reached out, wrapping around his wrist and bringing his fingers to your mouth. Your lips wrapped around his index and middle finger and sucked carefully as he did, and you felt his cock twitch against your thigh at the sight.

He watched you intently as you cleaned off his fingers, his free hand stroking his throbbing dick. He swiped the tip against your slit, causing your body to shudder when he bumped your clit.

He took his fingers from your mouth and both hands held your waist. Instinctively, your pushed your knees further apart, opening up to him. Steven’s blue eyes flicked up to you as he pressed his tip against your heat.

“Are you sure?” He asked you.

You nodded. “I’ve never been more sure.”

You threw your head back as he began to press into you, the pressure unbearable and made your entire body tense. The king began to hush you, holding still. One of his hands caressed the side of your face, combing through your hair. “You need to relax, my love,” he cooed.

You muttered an incoherent agreement as you tried to will your muscles to loosen. You heard the squelching sound of your cunt engulfing the man, slowly. Your hand flew to his wrist and grabbed onto it, unsure of what to do.

He praised you as the tip slipped in along with an inch or two, but he was nowhere close to bottoming out. The king began to pull back, only leaving the tip in before pushing in more of him. You hissed again as he pressed past the thin veil of your innocence, being the first and only man to tear through it.

His cock was no match for his fingers, being much thicker and so much longer. You tried to even your breathing and he chuckled. “You’re doing so well, my love,” he whispered, leaning down to kiss your lips. “Taking me so well… Look…”

His nose nudged the side of your cheek and you slowly craned your neck to look down as he bottomed out completely – his public bone flush against your clit. Your mouth watered at the sight as he slowly pulled out an inch or two. You took a sharp breath when you saw the faint strips of red on his length.

The king began to rock into you slowly and you couldn’t take your eyes away from where you were connected. The pain, although still there from the burning stretch, was incomparable to the pleasure when his tip brushed against a certain part of your canal.

You moaned, loudly, head thrown back, exposing your throat to him. Steven kissed the hollowness before capturing your lips in his. “I love you,” he murmured into the kiss as his hips began to speed up. Your own matching his thrusts.

The sound of skin clapping against each other echoed throughout the enormous room and you felt yourself clench against him.

He groaned in return. In one quick motion, the king hoisted your knees over his shoulder, giving him a much deeper angle to take you from. He thrusted so hard and so deeply that you swore you felt him in your chest.

You moaned his name as your hands grabbed your breasts. He watched with a smirk as you fondled yourself and one of his hands began to rub tight circles around your swollen clit again. Your back arched at the sensation.

“I’m gonna fill you up, my love,” he told you. “Have you fall pregnant with my child. Watch you swell…” It was a fantasy, on Steven’s behalf. He’d always wanted a wife and children but never found the right partner until you. “Do you want that, little one? Do you want my children?”

“I want you, Steven,” you moaned. No coherent thoughts were forming as the familiar tight knot in your stomach suddenly snapped. Your hips ground up against his as your walls tightened around the king, milking him, and pushing him over the edge.

Steven thrusts faltered, leaving his rhythm, and pushed deeply into you one last time. You felt his cock twitch inside of you and you felt each spurt, covering your walls in his white.

You two laid on top each other, legs entangled, and bodies intertwined like lovers. He pressed a kiss to the top of your head, and you said, “I love you, Steven.”

And in that moment, all was right.

»————-　⚜　————-«

“What?”

The disbelief in each of their tones hung in the air. The councilmen shook their heads in shock as Peter stared at you from the throne with his brows furrowed, deep in thought.

“I beg your pardon, Lady (Y/N).” One of the men said.

“My lords, my king,” you addressed with a bow of your head. “I asked for this meeting to tell you that I am incredibly humbled to have been homed here in the palace of Arachnia and to be the betrothed of the prince – king – to have witnessed you be crowned, your majesty… But I,” you swallowed and took a deep breath. “I do not want to marry you.”

“What brought this on?” Peter asked you as he leaned into his throne. He eyed you, suspiciously, eyes glancing over your figure. Although the new king had been wrapped up in several meetings ever since his coronation, he noticed the change in you – the way your body filled out, hips wider and the glow in your complexion. You looked more radiant than you usually were and much happier. Though he wasn’t sure what was the cause, he was certain it had not been him but he refused to believe it was another.

“I cannot believe this!”

“We’ve wasted all this time preparing a marriage!”

“How dare she – “

“He needs a bride to keep his crown.”

“Silence,” Peter ordered the men and their murmurs quickly disappeared. Words and unfinished sentences hung in the air. “What brought this on, my lady?”

You cleared your throat as you took a step forward. “Your majesty, I … I am not meant to be your queen.”

Peter nodded in contemplation and you were hopeful. He had always been understanding. He would’ve surely granted you a swift exit from this engagement without another – “No.” And just like that your hopes were dashed. “You are to remain my betrothed as you have been for months.”

“But Pete – “

“Our wedding is in days!” Peter snapped and your eyes flicked to the floor. “And you want to end our engagement now? You had months to concede – “

“I was afraid!” You objected. The lords stared on as your voice rose higher than the king’s. The tone, the higher octave, may have been from a moment of frustration, but the men in the throne room saw it as one thing only: a lady undermining her king.  

“Afraid?” He scoffed. “Of what? Of me? My lady, I am not a cruel man – “

“Then grant me my wish. Release me from this engagement.” You begged.

“No.” Peter shook his head. “We are to be married in a few days’ time.” You saw how his kind eyes darkened as he frowned at you. “You do your best to rid of your cold feet now, my lady.”

Defeated, you rushed out of the throne room. Several servants and other nobles stared with confused expressions as you ran past with tears in your eyes – running to the only man that understood you, the only man that could help.

You banged against his chamber doors, desperate for him to whisk you away.

“Steven!” You called when the door suddenly opened to reveal a maid. Her arms were full of linens and you stared at her in confusion.

She quickly curtseyed to you and cocked her head to the side. “My lady, have you been crying?”

“No,” you shook your head, jaw clenched, though your sniffle gave you away. “Where’s King Steven?”

“He left this afternoon, my lady.” She told you.

“What?” You felt the color drain from your face. You shook your head at her as if she were wrong. He wouldn’t have left you – not like this. “No… There must be a mistake. Steven – King Steven – “

She frowned before shaking her head. “No, my lady… The Brooklyn King left hours ago. If you had wanted to know, I would’ve told you. I had no idea you two were so close.”

You bit your lip and closed your eyes. Though the maid had been kind in her intention, you heard the accusation loud and clear.

A shaky breath left you as you forced a smile. “No,” you said shaking your head again, “no… The king, our king, Peter and I were hoping he’d attend our… our marriage.” The word felt heavy on your tongue as the world around you began to crash down. “I suppose, we were too naïve to believe he’d stay.”

»————-　⚜　————-«

The barren winter trees passed by in blurs as Steven stared out the carriage window. The bickering of his two friends and advisors, Lord Samuel Wilson and James Barnes, became background noise to his pensive thoughts.

He wondered how you were – were you as devasted as he was? Would you understand if he told you the truth – that he, though desperately and completely in love with you, could not have you? That his overstep, his coveting of Peter Parker’s fiancé, may reignite a feud long buried between Arachnia and Brooklyn.

That as a king, it was his duty to put a stop to a potential war.

Though as a man, he knew his duty was to you and may always be.

“The girl,” Barnes’s mention of your name had him turning from the window and towards the two men, “she seems well. A great match for the young king.”

Steve scoffed. Although he knew his opinion was heavily biased, he knew that you were most certainly not a good match for the Parker boy. Peter would have you as a decorated figurehead – a pretty woman on his arm for the world to see – while Steven wanted so much more in your forbidden union.

“I see you disagree,” Samuel nodded to his king. Steven sat in silence and the two lords shot a knowing glance at the other. “They are to be wed in a few days.” Steven hummed though the two didn’t miss the way his hand formed a fist over his knee.

“The sooner the better, I suppose,” James nodded, eyeing Steven wearily. “Peter, being so young and the last of his line, he needs an heir quickly.” The king shifted in the carriage and they felt the entire cart jolt with his fury. “Steven, I address this as your friend, nothing more, but what is your issue?”

“Nothing.” Steven said quickly and he scolded himself. He felt like a young boy throwing a tantrum with his mother.

James raised an inquisitive eyebrow at his king and childhood friend. “The girl has piqued your interest, hasn’t she?” His friend’s silence was all the confirmation he needed. “Steve – “

“I know,” Steven snapped. “I know it is wrong to want another man – “he scoffed, “child’s bride…”

“And yet you still do?” Samuel asked. “Steve, the consequences of your feelings,” he shook his head, “it will incite an unnecessary war… and over what? A girl?”

“If she’s a war, then I will fight.”

“A love blind man’s word… Not a king’s.” Samuel rebutted.

“Why did you leave her, then? You could’ve stowed her away in this carriage with us. You could’ve stolen her from under Peter’s nose. Why didn’t you?” James quizzed.

With a defeated sigh, Steven said, “it’s for her own good. My affections for her, whatever my heart says or hers, it will get her killed. Arachnia will not take lightly to her betrayal of their king.”

James nodded in agreement. “You’re saving her. This is for the best, my friend. For if you listened to your heart instead of your head, she will be a casualty in a pointless war.”

“It’s difficult,” Steven confessed, “to have let her go. And it’s something I will regret for the rest of my life.”

»————-　⚜　————-«

ONE YEAR LATER…

Your entire family cooed at the fussing three-month-old in the king’s arms. The child continue to wail and thrash, finding discomfort in your husband. “Argh!” He glanced over to you as if asking for your help. You stifled a laugh as you walked over, seizing your baby from him. “She prefers her mother over me.” He joked as the babe almost instantly calmed in your arms.

“Have you chosen a godparent, yet, your majesty?” Your father asked you, subtly pushing your older brother forward as a silent suggestion. You rolled your eyes.

The king ran a hand over his brown curls and shook his head at your father. “No, my lord, we have yet to choose.” Peter nodded in your direction. “I thought since most of baby Fallon’s life will be decided by me, his mother should have a say in that.”

Your father chuckled with a shake of his head. He clasped a hand on your shoulder, and you fought the urge to shrug it off. “Indecisive, this one, isn’t she?”

Peter glanced your way, “you have no idea.” The two men laughed, and you gnawed at the knob in the inside of your cheek until you tasted blood. Fallon yawned and you gave Peter a look. “I suppose, we should all greet our guests.”

“Oh, yes,” you nodded, “the christening. You go ahead, Peter. Someone should stay with Fallon.”

“Oh, nonsense, girl,” your father told you. “The nanny will – “

“She is my child and I will care for her. I do not need a nanny.” You snapped, your bottled up frustrations slowly bursting.

Peter laughed awkwardly, hands finding your waist though you pulled away from him. He coughed. “It’s the separation anxiety,” he joked with your father.

“Well, I never had that,” your mother piped up.

Of course, you didn’t. You sent me away as soon as Peter asked. You bit back the response.

Your family began to vacate the nursery and you felt a bit of relief. You felt Peter’s hands on your hips. You tensed when you felt his lips ghost over your ear. “Why don’t you join me in greeting our guests?” He asked you.

You shrugged him off. “I want to be alone.”

The young king sighed before releasing his hold on you. With his hand on the doorknob, he turned to you again. “You do realize your duty is not only to Fallon? It is to me and my kingdom as well.”

“I understand that my duty was to give you an heir,” you deadpanned. “I have done just that.”

“You have given me a daughter. Not an heir.” You glared at him and he immediately silenced.

“A daughter is an heir. Do not dare discredit her birthright because of her sex!” The babe began to stir in your arms and let out a small cry. You immediately shushed her, coddling her in your arms and she began to quiet.

You heard him sigh, defeatedly, before the door slammed shut again.

You felt a wave of guilt wash over you as you stared at the child in your arms. Many times, you found peace in Fallon’s presence, but as time went on and as the child began to resemble her father, you began to worry. Though Fallon had adorable dark curls, she had striking blue eyes – ones that undoubtfully belonged to her father.

On the day you were to wed Peter, he had gotten caught up in the affairs of the state. The wedding was quickly rescheduled for two weeks after despite the protests of the nobles and royals who had all stayed extra days to witness your union. As you were doing the final adjustments to your gown, you realized you were due for a bleed that had yet to come and a sickening feeling of realization ran erupted through you. You did not consummate that night – your nerves and guilt making you sick to your stomach.

But you decided that you would survive – if not for yourself, then the life within you, the life in your arms now.

Moments later, the door creaked open and you let out a frustrated sigh. “Peter, I said I wanted to be alone – “in the silence, you felt the hairs on the back of your neck stand and a shiver run down your spine. A familiar feeling you wanted to forget. You turned around and your eyes widened. All the fury you felt, the regrets, the pain – all of it – melted in an instant.

“Steve.”

He stared at you with adoring eyes. You had grown more beautiful if that were even possible. Your glowed, motherhood becoming you. “(Y/N).”

“You shouldn’t be here.” You shook your head.

“You weren’t with Peter,” the Brooklyn king told you. “I thought you may have been with your child…” He chuckled. “Near the south wing, next to the staircase.”

“I love the sunlight it brings in.” You muttered. “Peter never lets Fallon out of the castle, so I suppose, it’s a substitute.” Steven nodded.

After beats of silence and longing stares, Steve finally said, “I’m sorry.”

“I understand.” You nodded. “At first I was angry. I cursed your name in the dead of night. I wished you were dead and I often pretended so.”

“I deserve worse.”

You laughed. “You do.”

“I did it because I was afraid if I took you from him, in a furious rage, he’d strike you down. You are not of Brooklyn. I could not protect you against your own king.” Steven explained.

You nodded. “I told you. I would marry into hell.”

“Has he been cruel?” Steven frowned, his fury slowly rising and hands forming fists.

You shook your head. “No, far from it, actually.” You chuckled humorlessly. “In fact, perhaps, I’ve been the cruel one. I push him away because I don’t want Falon to believe that he is her father – “

“What?”

You glanced down at the child in your arms and beckoned Steven with a cock of your head. The king slowly walked over to you and the babe. Steven’s eyes watered slightly as he stared at the small creation. “She’s … she’s mine?”

You nodded. “They pushed the wedding back two weeks and I didn’t… uh… I didn’t bleed… and I knew then. We didn’t consummate,” you saw how he frowned at that, “until a week or so after. I was with child not long after.”

“How do you know?” He asked you. “Not to be accusatory, but – “

“She has your eyes.” You smiled. “Every time she stares at me, it’s as if you are.”

“She looks like me,” Steven smiled, a gentle finger caressing the child’s plump cheeks. You nodded in agreement.

“Would you like to hold her?” You asked and he eagerly nodded. He took the child from you and you felt your heart swell when Fallon didn’t immediately begin to fuss like she would with Peter. “She likes you.”

“I hope so. I’m her father, after all.”

You laughed and rested your head on his shoulder, both admiring the life that you both created. You imagined that this was your life… just for a moment. That you weren’t in Arachnia but in Brooklyn, bearing Steven’s name rather than Peter’s… Married to the one who truly held your heart.

You sighed, finding the calm in your daughter and your lover.

And in that moment… all was right.

let me know what y’all think

[ichor-and-symbiosis]

Release. (Shinsou x f!Reader; NSFW)

Commission for @kyberhearts​.

Escape had never tasted so sweet before. You cling to Shinsou for dear life as his capture weapon sends you both into an alleyway, one of many in the twisted maze of factories housing a criminal enterprise. Well, not anymore. The criminals were hot on your tail for a good while before Shinsou disposed of the troublesome quirk users and snatched you straight out of harm’s way. Your strong, capable hero. Always there to save you, always there when you need him most. 

His grip is tight around your waist as he bears the brunt of the landing. You hug each other close for the split second it takes to land on your feet with minimal stumbling, and your arms are still around each other when all is settled and still. Shinsou pants into your hair and your heart hammers wildly in your chest. 

You breathlessly laugh, exhilarated and wide-eyed as Shinsou pulls back to stare at you. “That was unbelievable, you really are incredible - “ 

Your praise dies in your throat with the sudden press of his warm lips to your open mouth. 

Months of pent-up tension uncoils like a violent explosion. Only one thought prevails among the rest - I want you right here, right now. 

Shinsou slams you into the brick facade as you kiss him for all he’s worth. Harsh breaths, eager hands groping and gripping wherever they reach, tongues undulating against each other, needy groans and whimpers, His vocalizer digs into your throat and you can barely breathe from his incessant kisses, but the lack of oxygen doesn’t stop your greedy fingers from palming at his clothed erection and fumbling with his belt to slide his pants down his thighs. 

He tears away from your mouth to growl low into your ear, “Tell me you want this as much as I do.” 

“You’re still alive, aren’t you?” you quip back, and your head lolls to the side when he bites your neck. He chuckles at your coquettishness, sucking a bruising kiss that is sure to leave a mark. 

Large hands cup your ass and pull you tightly against him. You roll your hips in a desperate attempt to grind your crotch over the tent in his underwear, and the shaky sound that escapes Shinsou leaves you weak in the knees. 

He makes quick work of your uniform, leaving you bare and exposed as his mouth peppers your skin with kisses wherever it lands. “You’re so gorgeous,” he murmurs quietly, arm around your waist as he presses you back onto the brick wall and boldly slides his fingers through your puffy folds. You spread your legs and hold him close, head rolling back as you sigh appreciatively. 

“Oh, kitten - “ You moan as he pushes knuckle-deep into your tight heat. “ - You’re all I can think about these days - “

“Shinsou,” you breathe, gripping his hair and forcing his mouth back onto yours, sucking his bottom lip until he buries his tongue down your throat and stretches your cunt open with another thick finger. 

Your hips move of their own accord, shoving him deeper and deeper inside you, coating him with your juices as the slickness trickles down his knuckles. His fingers curl and rub upwards, stroking you so thoroughly that you are utterly embarrassed from how quickly you come undone by him. 

Feverish frenzy is the only way you can describe your situation. No time to think about your circumstances - that you are finally being ravaged by the man you love most, in a gross alley, right after finishing a mission. No time for that. Only rough kisses and urgent shoving of clothes as he gropes your breasts and you rake your fingers down his chiseled chest. Shinsou falls to his knees and throws your leg over his shoulder, the rough stubble on his chin heightening your sensitivity as his lips carve a path up your inner thigh.

The sight of Shinsou a hair's breadth away from your mound breaks your composure. “I can’t believe we’re doing this,” you blurt out.

He looks up at you, brilliant purple eyes darkened by lust. You reach down to cup his rosy cheeks. “I can’t believe it took this long,” he murmurs, a teasing glint in his gaze. Holding your bleary stare, Shinsou slowly sticks out his tongue and drags the tip through your sensitive folds. Slow and firm, higher and higher as you bite your lip and moan. It feels heavenly, so hot and slick and perfect, and the way he watches your dazed reactions with ravenous need - 

“Does it feel good, kitten?” 

“Yeah,” you sigh, dig your fingers in his hair. “Please, Shinsou, I need you now!”

Shinsou growls with pleasure. His warm, smooth lips purse around your aching clit and suck, relentless and wet as his tongue slithers and flicks the stiff bead. It tears all kinds of animalistic sounds from you, forcing you to clamp your hand over your mouth while you roll your hips in search of pleasure. He is everywhere, kissing and tasting every intimate part of you, reverently worshipping your dripping pussy so sloppily that the slurping sounds of his mouth overshadow your stifled whimpers and moans. You come with a wordless cry, a string of viscous fluid oozing between your thighs, and the sight of you absolutely soaked and creamed for him makes Shinsou delirious with need. He’s got your legs wrapped around his waist before you can come to your senses, pressing the tip of his cock to your fluttering entrance as his fingers dig into your outer thighs and his lips seek you out for another kiss.

You grant it to him freely and eagerly. His tongue plunders your mouth and sucks on your bottom lip as he rubs his cockhead through the slick juices trickling out of your tight entrance, until you simply cannot take the teasing anymore. You bury your fingers in his hair and wrench his head back, your cunt clenching at the sound of his low growl and the sight of his darkened expression.

“Fuck me, Shinsou,” you whine - 

He sheathes himself inside you in one harsh, shattering thrust. 

Shinsou’s deep groan tears a high-pitched gasp from your throat. You feel so full, so stretched and warm and burning, your cunt wrapped around his cock so perfectly, your body held securely in his strong arms, you don’t know where you begin and where Shinsou ends. He sets a brutal pace instantly, panting in your ear as his fingers grip your ass and shoves you onto his cock with each staggering thrust. Your pussy squelches wetly and coats him in your juices, lubing him up so wonderfully that you already feel yourself loosening to accept more of him, deeper and deeper with every short, quick thrust. 

“Shinsoouuu, you feel s-so good, so fucking good,” you babble, nails raking along his back as he grunts and groans and fucks you hard. Not even the uncomfortable ache and scraping along your back from the brick wall can kill your euphoria. He cants his hips, thrusts up in a new angle, and you cry out his name as your walls grip his cock.

“Shit,” he grunts through clenched teeth. “My kitten’s got a tight little pussy, hmm?” His teeth graze your earlobe. “And makes such cute sounds.” A harsh thrust makes your mouth fall open, a perfect opportunity for him to ravage you senseless, swallowing your desperate moans as his body presses so tightly against you that you can hardly breathe. 

Through the rapid slapping of his hips against your thighs, Shinsou finds himself unable to keep his pent up thoughts at bay. “You just - spread your legs so easily for me - “ You busy yourself with sucking a prominent hickey onto his throat. His breath stutters and harshly exhales as your hips meet him thrust for thrust. “You -nnggh - you wanted this, didn’t you, kitten?” He demands a reply, spanks your ass as he repeats, “Didn’t you?” 

“Yes!” You yelp, clinging to him from the onslaught of his quickened pace. “Yesss, right there, oh God right there baby!” 

Your thighs quiver around his waist. Shinsou follows your demand like a man possessed, brushing his cock up against a spot deep inside you. “I wanted you, too,” he quietly breathes, so soft that you barely heard him. He nuzzles your temple, and hot breath fans over your skin as he speaks. “Wanted you so bad, you’re so fucking perfect - nnggh - fuck - I - I love - “ 

His voice hitches, hips press into you with unyielding force, and Shinsou releases a broken groan of your name as his cock twitches and pulses deep inside you. It triggers your second orgasm, forcing you to milk his cock with every rope of cum spitting into your wet heat. Escape may have tasted sweet, but release feels like ambrosia. 

You hold each other. Your fingers slowly run through his wild hair as Shinsou keeps his face buried in the crux of your neck and kisses you softly. Held safe in his arms, just like before when he rescued you. 

Neither of you acknowledge what had almost been said. Perhaps it is too soon for that. You know Shinsou needs to do these things on his terms. 

He eases out of you and sets you onto your shaky legs. A brief moment of eye contact brings a smile to your lips, and his serious expression melts away into relief and fondness. Realization of being in an open space makes you both redress in record speed. You should leave immediately, but something keeps you both rooted to the spot. 

Shinsou looks down at you, unable to wrap an arm around you again. “Come back to my place,” he murmurs, presses a slow kiss to your lips. 

You blush at his gentleness. “We have to go back to the agency and file a report.” 

You are right and he knows it. Shinsou sighs in defeat and looks away, reluctantly stepping back to run a hand through his hair and think. “I … “ He looks back at you with guarded longing. “I want to spend more time with you.”

“I would really like that.” 

“It changes things.”

“Doesn’t have to.” You smirk. “Other than making work more interesting.” 

He lets out a dry laugh. “Yeah.” Then he pauses, lost in thought again, and tentatively asks, “Wanna get drinks tonight?” 

You smile, reaching for his hand. He twines his fingers with yours without hesitation. “Drinks, and then dessert,” you reply. 

“I like the sound of that, kitten.” 

[blause]

Why Azula Doesn’t Deserve a Redemption Arc

With the Avatar Renaissance, I've seen quite a few people say that Azula deserved a redemption arc. I disagreed, despite her being my 3rd favorite character, and wrote a whole essay about it!

This is strictly about Azula in the show, not the comics!

Avatar: The Last Airbender is not only praised for being one of the greatest children’s cartoons created, but also creating one of the greatest character redemption arcs possibly in animated history.

Prince Zuko started as a bitter child, wanting only to restore his honor and be seen by his father as a valuable member not only to the Fire Nation but to Lord Ozai’s family. He spent years putting his heart and soul into a mission that was meant as a joke to keep him away, but when Prince Zuko actually finds the Avatar, Aang, it’s the first time he has had hope in a long time. That hope, though, was a flame tended by hatred, anger, and fear that he let get the best of him for two seasons of Avatar. And while there are moments in the show where he shows vulnerability and his true colors (see: “Zuko Alone”), his traumatic past overshadows any positive step he could truly take even if he had the best intentions.

It is in the third season where Zuko truly shines, standing up to his father and his sister, an abusive family where he hardly ever feels like he belongs, and joining the Avatar and his friends who he had betrayed so many times to finally do what was right and aligned with his morals instead of his father’s. It is with the love he had gotten from his Uncle Iroh from the beginning, and the compassion of his newfound friends, that he fights his own family for the sake of saving the world only to take his place as crowned king of the Fire Nation.

The reason I go into brief detail of Zuko’s character arc is to explain how fleshed out it makes his character. The questioning of himself, his morals and his motives truly make Zuko human. It makes him relatable, as nearly all true heroes in media try to be. There is an argument to be made that, despite his trauma and his warranted anger, he is not a three dimensional character in the first season of Avatar, but instead an angry child that wants his way no matter what his true motives are. Making Zuko end up on the “good” side was his fleshing out, and making him come full circle made genuine sense for the show.

So if Prince Zuko was able to get a redemption arc, doesn’t that mean his sister Azula, who also went through an immense amount of trauma, would be able to get one too and have it be just as great or make just as much sense?

No. I genuinely believe that giving Azula a redemption arc would not make sense for her character or the show.

Azula, Zuko’s younger sister and only daughter to Firelord Ozai, is seen as, what I believe to be, the secondary villain in Avatar. She was born with a natural talent for firebending, picking it up more easily and far younger than her brother Zuko did. Her personality type was nasty; she was a cunning, manipulative bully with relentless determination that reflected poorly on everyone around her. She commanded the attention of anyone in her presence, took what she thought was rightfully hers, and would not stop until she was the best -- the best being Ozai’s true approval.

In her introductory scene at the end of season 1, Azula does not even speak but it is not hard to see her emotions come through on her face. Beyond the “evil smirk” commonly associated with “bad” or “evil” characters, there is the radiating pleasure of being donned a serious task by her father. By the time you were to finish Avatar, it is clear to see in this 3 second introduction of Azula as a character that she is willing to do anything her father asks of her, thus turning into anything she would do to gain the respect and honor that Zuko also seeks out. It can be argued that, despite Azula receiving praise from her father both in her past and in the show, she never receives the honor that Zuko does.

In season 2, Azula is already cruel to those working for the Royal Family. This is to be expected, as she is only a 14 year old girl with the whole world wrapped around her talented finger, but the confidence and power in her tone as she commandeers a ship cannot be ignored. To have that ability and that intimidation at such a young age shows the complex that Azula develops with each success and conquer, only to end up being her downfall. When she reunites with her childhood “friends”, Ty Lee and Mai, it is through manipulation and fear that she gets them once again on her side (although with Mai and the way she hardly shows her true emotions, it is not as clear). It takes only minutes for Azula to get those on her side, showing the signs of a leader but also of an overlord.

While Azula’s bending powers are far beyond her years, it can be argued that her verbal powers are even stronger. Her confidence, persuasion tactics, and mastery of manipulation can sway anyone from vulnerable children (Zuko when she tried to bring him home as prisoner to her father as a traitor alongside her uncle), to an entire kingdom (not only the Earth Kingdom, but also the Dai Lee that held a leader confident in his abilities to lead the rogue society). As a counter, though, Azula’s verbal skills also lack when seen in season 3 as she tries to play the role of a “normal firebender citizen”.

She is shown at a firebender party having no social skills whatsoever, trying to find others ulterior motives, and overall struggling to fit in. While her traumatic past absolutely had a huge impact on her social skills, on top of being part of a royal family (Zuko shared similar struggles when going to offer to teach Aang firebending), it is interesting to see her confidence falter. In this episode is when we see Azula most vulnerable not only with those her age that she cannot immediately control, but also when she reflects on her mother and being called a “monster”. Those feelings of abandonment after Ursa left the Fire Nation only pushed her beyond her own limits to do anything in her power to keep Ozai’s love no matter how twisted it was

One of the biggest reasons I think that Azula did not deserve a redemption arc is because, much like Zuko, she chose her own path in the very end. If Zuko did not choose to seek out Aang and his friends in season 3, there would be no arc whatsoever. Obviously the writers chose this for him, and I see exactly why they did it. They showed Zuko’s wavering beliefs clearly over the years, despite his anger and his fear of not only change but forever losing his father regardless of how severed their connection had been for years on end. Azula, on the other hand, never showed anything but loyalty to her father and their shared beliefs and cause. There were countless openings for Azula to show some sort of questioning of herself and her beliefs, with the loss of Ty Lee and Mai, her father’s decision to make her the next ruler over the Fire Nation despite his plans as the Phoenix King, and the Agni Kai against Zuko and Katara, but she never did.

The closest she ever got was when her mental state and mental health began to collapse on her coronation day, and even that cannot be justified as questioning herself.

It’s heartbreaking to see the fall of Azula, the pressure put on her practically since birth finally crashing down around her. All the times that she had been called “crazy” by Zuko, Iroh, and others that she saw as disposable pawns finally “coming true”. It is when she begins to lose herself, not question herself, that she becomes such a big threat. While before she was cold and so tightly wound up in her ways, seeing the unraveling of trauma and how it can affect a teen girl whose true motivation was love and acceptance was powerful. The scene of Azula hallucinating her mother in the mirror was the acknowledgement of a lost past, a hopelessness that she could never forgive, and resulted in Azula’s genuine intentions to kill Zuko and Katara once confronted. And instead of stepping down, having enough awareness to see herself in such a deteriorating state, she challenges her brother to an Agni Kai.

Azula is truly gone the moment she steps off the throne. And even after she is defeated, instead of accepting the consequences of her actions or what led her to that point, she breaks down instead, forever sealing the potential of any character arc.

TLDR; So why do I believe that Azula doesn’t deserve a redemption arc?

1) She showed no desire to be redeemed.

2) Azula was already so fleshed out that it would not make sense to redeem her. Her anger, trauma, and actions take her down a road she cannot return from.

3) The fact that Zuko got such a terrific character redemption arc cannot be ignored in the sake of arguing whether Azula deserves one. If every character were to be redeemed, there would be no power behind the redemption. Giving both siblings a redemption arc, despite their (partially) shared traumas, would lessen the importance/meaning of the other’s.

4) Despite my personal belief that Azula is not evil, she is not good either. I believe that giving her a redemption arc would be a cheap shot at wiping clean or attempting to validate all of her past actions in at least some aspect. It would be a disservice to her as a character and invalidate her motivations and what she did to get to every peak she hit in the show.

[exosmutfactory]

Something Bout You

gif not mine 🌹

— Pairing: You & Baekhyun

— Genre/AU: smut,

— Word Count: 3.7k

— Rating: 18+ (M)

— [ Contains: you’ll find out  ]

❥ Sub Baekhyun because the woman behind this blog is a switch 💀💀 let’s go

ღ♥ღ♥ღ♥ ღ♥ღ♥ღ♥ ღ♥ღ♥ღ♥

Your best friend was having a party-a very 'suit&tie stuffie event' if you must admit. Attire requirements ranging from borrowed floor-length gowns to personally tailored suits. Housed in a grand ballroom supposedly used on an occasion for the Queen of Wisconsin or whatever, you don't know and you don't want to know. In fact, you don't even want to go.

But you have to, for one reason and ONE reason only.

To be the wing (wo)man as your bestie aims to woo her every-so-posh coworker; Kim Minseok.

Honestly, if your best friend didn't already call dibs on the guy, you surely would. With his midnight black hair and intense cat-like eyes, Minseok is an eyecatcher. Hell, all he has to do is walk into the room and nearly all inhabitants turn to him.

You shake your head, clearing your thoughts. 'I have a mission,' you remind yourself, sighing at the state of your hair. You quickly put it up in a bun, loose curls of your hair hanging down in the front. You consider putting on a bow until you remember the type of party you are actually going to. 'Right,' You roll your eyes, reaching for a tube of red lipstick instead.

Since you are going to such a formal event, you will try to look the part. Putting behind your usual comfortable/girly pinks and long sweaters for bold reds and a sleeveless dress. A dress so sleeveless that it fits like a vest, fully showcasing your slim arms and prominent collarbones..

Are you being a wing woman or a man stealer?

Shrugging, you look for your trusty black heeled boots, slipping into the 3-inch heels with ease. You need your 'morning after' foot pain to be as minimal as possible.

Checking yourself in the mirror one last time, you nod; satisfied, and head out for the event.

Getting there proves to be difficult as the GPS in your car fancies telling you where you have to make your turn at the last possible second. But you being you, you left a little early in case something this ridiculous was unfortunate to happen. It hardly lessens your urge to curse at it though.

Finally getting there, you pull up to the place; eyes widening at how grand it actually is. 'Did she say the Queen of Wisconsin or the Queen of England?' Either way, you are left in awe.

A little while after handing off your 'baby' to the safety of a car-boy, you make your way across the grassy lawn and lift your flowy skirt while going up the marble steps.

Two men are there to check your ID and open up the double doors; revealing how the building looks even more stunning in its interior.

Stepping inside, you immediately stop your friend, greeting every guest that walks in. She calls out your name as you swiftly make your way over; not missing the sigh of relief she gives while wrapping you in a light hug. "I'm so glad you could make it. Look, he's right over there."

You pick up a glass from a tray going by and nod, taking a sip as you skillfully eye the handsome man engaged in conversation with another–

Holy shit.

You nearly choke on your drink while eyeing the redhead next to Minseok. While Mr. Kim rocks a white suit, this man sports a turquoise one; the light in the room reflecting off of it in a magnetic way. Judging from the other ladies around also to seemingly take notice of the stunning man, you know you aren't alone. And you know one other thing too:

You need a closer look.

So, taking the hand of your protesting and panicky friend, you move closer to the two men.

They don't notice you at first, 'Thank goodness,' You think, turning to your still jabbering friend. "Vic. Listen."

She goes quiet, taken aback at the serious look in your eyes.

You gesture towards the redhead as discretely as possible, "See him?" She nods, so you continue, "I'm getting that tonight."

Her eyes widen to the size of saucers. "Really? You like Baekhyun?"

Baekhyun. The name triggers a memory. An annoyingly attractive man who teased you for confessing to being a dom at a small 'Truth or Dare' gathering.

Clenching your jaw and looking back at your friend, you nod curtly. She smirks as if being able to read you, patting your shoulder, "Go for it, babe. Just stay by my side as I woo Minseok, okay?"

All you do is smirk in response; straightening your posture before continuing to make your way over to the stunning duo. Your friend not far behind.

Minseok is the first to notice you, a polite smile on his face. "Ladies." He nods in acknowledgment, gesturing to the man next to him. "This is Byun Baekhyun, as you may know."

"Oh of course," Victoria gushes. "Who wouldn't know the co-director of one of the biggest designer brands."

Minseok nods, though an odd look crosses his face; you squint slightly to catch the flicker of jealousy in his eyes. "Of course." He claps a hand on the back of said man in a rough manner, nearly making the latter spill his drink. "Baekhyun is a hard-working man."

Victoria nods, "Although," She looks down in a shy manner; peeking up at him under perfect eyelashes, "Working as the chairman for Lotto Inc is extremely admirable."

Minseok's eyes widen in surprise, "Oh?"

'She's got him,' You think, 'Hook, line, and sinker.'

Vic giggles flirtatiously, hooking her arm with his, "Of course."

Leaving them to their own conversation, you focus on your meal for the night; already finding his eyes on you. He takes the courtesy of speaking first.

"So," He looks at you from head to toe, eyes lingering on predictable places. You could scoff at how he shamelessly licks his lips. He takes his time dragging his eyes back up to yours, "Are you hoping to catch a new victim tonight?"

You smirk, keeping your eyes locked on him, "I'm looking right at him."

He raises a brow, trying to play it off as if your words don't affect him. But the tremble of his hand and struggle to swallow as he sips his drink isn't failed to be seen by you.

"And what if I don't want to be the prey?" He challenges, eyeing you with significantly darker eyes.

You chuckle deeply, taking your sweet time to sip at your own drink; thriving off of the impatience in his eyes. "Well." You hum, speaking lowly, "There is no being the predator with me, baby. I hunt." You take a step closer, relishing in how he gulps, "And you." You chuckle about a foot away from him, leaning closer to set your glass down on the table behind him.

You can tell he's buzzing in anticipation; body nearly crying out for you to take him. Before you lean back, you don't fail to brush your lips against his ear; humming as he shivers. "I make sure to take full pleasure in my every meal." You lean all the way back, taking notice of his blown pupils and heaving chest.

He continues to watch you with those dark eyes of his, not making a single move. You take a look around and notice that your friend and her crush have already departed with a sigh, yet still managing to send Baekhyun a polite smile. "Well, it was nice seeing you I guess–"

A hand grabs your wrist, "P-Please." A whisper. In the sweetest of tones. You want more of it. You want more of him.

Turning back to Baekhyun you have to gulp yourself at the look of desire in his eyes.

Right then and there you finally decide. You see him. You like him. And you want to make him yours. Even for just one night.

With your mind made up, you take hold of his hand, tugging him roughly. He stumbles forward with a yelp, grabbing your waist to stabilize himself. You pull him close, your own hand resting heavily on his hip while your other moves to his back. "He's feeling a little unwell," You say, waiting until the onlookers look away; understanding overshadowing the jealousy in their own eyes. You take a peek to see how Baekhyun's doing, his face resting in the crook of your neck.

You brush your lips to his ear again, biting down on it hard and soothing it when he gasps. "Come." You take a step back, taking his hand again and walking back to a hallway you saw earlier.

Baekhyun follows you closely behind; breathing heavily down your neck. You are two seconds away from ordering him to stop when he starts leaving wet kisses down your neck; opting to shove him off instead. He whimpers, confusion written all over his face when you look back at him; holding his hand even tighter and walking farther into the unknown.

After trying a few locked doors you come upon an open one, pushing it farther to reveal a king-size bed. Cream curtains and silk sheets. You smirk, 'Perfect.' 

Turning around, you pull a hesitant Baekhyun farther into the room, pressing him into the ajar door. He yelps as it slams, moaning shamelessly in your mouth when you pounce on his. His hands grab on to your hips and he yelps again, blinking at you after you spank his thigh in warning.

You lok right back at him, "No touching without permission."

Not surprisingly, he nods, letting his hands hang by his sides. You hum, more than pleased, leaning to peck his lips, "Good boy." He beams under the praise.

Chuckling, you slowly walk backward, pulling him with you. At the last second you switch your positions, pushing a surprised Baekhyun to the bed. He lands with another yelp and you nearly roll your eyes. 'Seriously? Shouldn't he expect this by now?' Although one look at how wrecked he already is, you remember that he is a first timer. His soft lips already rosy and swollen, palms digging into the sheets and the look of pure lust in his dark brown eyes.

You make a noise. "Look at you.." Shaking your head you trail your eyes farther down his body, tsking at the strain in his pants. "Already so wrecked and I've barely touched you."

Baekhyun whimpers, palms twisting in the sheets as you take a step closer, leaning your knee on the bed, "P-Please–"

You press your finger to his lips, "Hush baby boy." You look him over again, seeing the light shine of sweat already covering his forehead, "Let's get these clothes off of you, hmm?"

Baekhyun bites his lip and nods, aiding you in taking off his coat and black turtle neck.

You make a pleased noise as more of him is revealed. "Damn baby, why do you hide all this?" He whines as you lightly run your nails down his chest, flicking his nipples playfully. He hisses at that and you chuckle, tapping his knee. "Pants too."

The man has the nerve to blush, lifting his hips as you climb off the bed to properly take the offending material off. Your eyes widen when his cock immediately stands up to attention, the head a flushed pink. Narrowing your eyes you look up at a red-eared Baekhyun. "Going commando, hmm?" You lean forward, spitting on his dick and taking it in your hand. "Had plans to get lucky tonight?"

"Y-Yes," He whines, lifting his hips as you squeeze him tightly. "For you!" He chokes out. You slow down your ministrations, letting him talk. He gulps at the stare you give him, "I-I was hoping to get lucky," He says softly, "With you."

That leaves a flutter in your chest, one you ignore by ghosting your lips over his tip, humming as he groans, jerking when you teasingly lick his slit. "Hoping to get lucky with me, huh." You chuckle, savoring his salty taste. Peeking up at him you feel powerful at the desparte look in his eyes.

"Y-Yes." He insists, twitching in your hand, "All for you."

"What a good boy." You hum, taking him into your mouth. Baekhyun nearly keens, head thrown back as you take more of him in.

"F-Fuck." You never expected him to be so sensitive. And vocal. But then again, that explains how loud he is 99% of the time. "That feels so good. Y-You feel so good."

Feeling him throb in your mouth you go all the way down on him, swallowing around his head once before pulling away; his whine near piercing as you wipe your mouth. "Hush baby. Mistress doesn't reward brats." You stand up, trying to unzip your dress only to remember that you needed help putting it on in the first place. Noticing the frustrated look on your face, Baekhyun sits up, "N-Need help?" The eager to please look on his face is borderline cute.

You smile, "Yes baby." You turn around, noticing how hot your own skin is as his fingers lightly brush your back. His breath hitches when the dress pools at your feet.

You smirk, you could get high off of the effect you have on him. "Thank you, baby," You coo, turning back to him and climbing into his lap. Baekhyun gulps yet keeps his hands at his sides. You sit right on his cock, feeling it twitch through your lace panties. You rock against him to test the waters and Baekhyun squeezes his eyes shut, whimpering. You can tell how much he wants to move by how his thighs tense.

"Look at you." You coo, cupping his cheek, "Being a good boy and staying still without being told to."

His eyes flutter a little, sucking in a sharp breath as you move again without stopping; slowly grinding. "M-Mistress."

"Hmm?" You kiss up his neck, nibbling on his ear as he moans, "What is it, baby."

"C-Can you–" He moans loudly at a particaly hard grind, shaking a bit.

"You stop, looking at him as his whole face goes red; the blush even covering his chest. "What do you want, baby. Tell me."

"Please." He whines, looking into your eyes withhis pleading ones, biting hard on his lip, "Please ride me."

You hum, whispering into his ear while grinding against him again, "Good boy." You sit up and slowly unclasp your bra, throwing it away. "Eyes up here." You say sternly, finger on Baekhyun's chin as he gulps, nodding quickly.

Continuing to grind again, you run your hands down his chest; reaching for his needy cock when he starts whining again. Finally deciding he had had enough, you pull your panties to the side, slowly stroking him as you brush him between your folds.

Just before you sit down on him, Baekhyun calls your name, grabbing your wrist.

You look up at him. "What." You snap impatiently.

Baekhyun gulps. "Y-You aren't properly prepared yet, Mistress." He daringly meets your eyes. "It'll hurt."

Something in his tone brings back that light flutter to your chest and lets him help you wiggle out of your panties and properly straddle him again.

Baekhyun's eyes start to drift, but they snap back up to meet yours; wordlessly asking for permission. You feel bare under that look as you nod, goosebumps covering your heated skin as he drinks you in.

"Beautiful." He breathes, hands twitching in the sheets. You silently grab his wrist and place his hand over your breast.

Baekhyun hums, softly palming your chest while leaning to lick your other nipple. You can't help but shudder; stuck between moving closer and pulling away. Your cheeks heating at your sensitivity. The moment he wraps his lips around it, you let out a sensual moan, tangling your hand in his hair.

Baekhyun looks up at you, running his unoccupied hand up your back before firmly grabbing your waist. Next thing you know, you feel a breeze and warm sheets against your back; looking up at a panting Baekhyun.

"I-I know you want to ride me. Just–" His hands slide up your inner thighs; gaze focused on what's in between. He licks his lips like a starved man and kneads them, pressing quick, sloppy kisses down your body. You try your best not to squirm, but the second his tongue is pressed against your slit, your hips buck with an embarrasingly high pitched squeal.

Baekhyun gets a good grip on your thighs, having to hold you down as you continue to thrash; moaning lowly when you tangle your hand back in his hair and roughly pull.

"You're so responsive." He breathes, whimpering as you tug his hair again. He sucks your clit into his mouth and groans, the stimulation pulling a needy moan from your throat.

God, how to tell him that you've never been gone down on before... Maybe you shouldn't. His ego is already quite large already...like his cock.

You try to get a look at his leaking member, nearly whimpering yourself at how flushed its gotten, leaving streaks of precum on the sheets. A familiar tension builds in your stomach.

"B-Baekhyun." You gasp, trying to close your legs when he easily slips two slender fingers into your wet core; pumping them quickly.

"Hmm?" He hums, brows furrowed in concentration as he crooks up his fingers; kissing up your thigh when you nearly shout. "Yes? M-Miss." He gulps, taking in your sexy glare as he keeps hitting your special spot.

"I-I." You pant, eyes shutting and back arching as that wave of pleasure threatens to wash over you. "I want to cum on your cock."

Baekhyun pauses and you down right near yell at him even though you told him to stop. His eyes run over your body, drinking in your flushed, panting form. As if realizes something, the look in his eyes shift; dark but with an innocent gaze as he looks up at you again. "I-I want you to cum in my pretty mouth." He breathes, licking his lips as you clench around his fingers. "I want to taste you. I want it. Please." He starts moving his fingers again, watching in awe as your legs start to shake.

You hiss at the pressure quickly building in your abdomen again, throwing your head back when you can't take meeting his innocent gaze anymore. "F-Fuck." You grunt, tears in your eyes as he sucks harder on your clit, flicking it wickedly with his tongue. "Fuck!"

Your thighs close around his head, and he keeps going; extending your orgasm as you cry out and shake beneath him.

Wait.

After a few moments, you jerk with sensitivity, not being able to look away as Baekhyun gently pulls out his fingers; sucking on the digits with an obscene groan. Your cheeks flush at the sinful act.

Baekhyun looks up at you and smiles, holding your waist again; flipping your positions. "Whenever you're ready," He leans up, whispering in your ear. "I'll be a good boy."

You nearly gawk at him, raising a brow. For someone who seems so dominant, he sure is making a mess out of you right now.

Okay. Enough of the foreplay, you are both near to cumming (again) at this point.

You take his angry red cock in your hand, stroking it a few times and pressing him to your entrance. Your breath hitches as you slide down, biting hard on your lip while Baekhyun moans his loudest one of the night. You're still so fucking sensitive, and the way Baekhyun is begging you so sweetly to move with his swollen, pouty lips has you clenching hard around him.

"I-I'm gonna cum." He breathes, hands resting on your hips as you start to move.

You tsk at that, spanking his thigh. "You better not." You gasp when he thrusts up into you, hitting your spot so good your thighs start trembling again. "Not before me."

Baekhyun hums, kissing up your neck as your pace quickens and biting your ear. "I want Mistress to cum again." He pulls another gasp from you with a sharp thrust; softly stroking your curves with his slender hands. His voice turning deeper and huskier as he throbs inside you. "You look so pretty cumming for me."

"Fuck." You swear, bucking your hips into his when he slides a sneaky hand down to roughly rub your clit. "Shit. Baekhyun."

He grunts in reply, holding firmly on to your waist and shifting, pounding straight into your gspot.

"Baekhyun!" You scream, squirming on top of him as you come hard, your head resting on his shoulder. Through your orgasmic haze, you feel his chest rapidly moving against yours, his hands holding you tight as he chases his release.

You use the last of your strength to clench tightly around him, pressing your lips to his ear. "Come for me Baekhyun. Come inside. Fill me up."

"F-Fucking hell!" The man cries, thrusting as deep as possible into you. You gasp at the feeling, a flush falling over you again at the warm spurts of his satisfied lust inside you.

Baekhyun slightly moves your hips back and forth, as if trying to coat your walls even more. You clench around him again and he groans; head dropping to your shoulder. "If you keep moving like that Doll, I'll want to go again."

You blink at the endearment, sitting up as he softly rubs your back. "What if I want to?" You mumble, looking his prettily wrecked form over; running your hands down his chest.

Baekhyun gulps and you feel him stir slightly inside you, making you smirk. You chuckle, nibbling on his ear and grinding again, "How bout you show me what you're made of, hmm?" You taunt, circling your hips.

Baekhyun's eyes take on a near sinister look as a sinful smirk forms on his lips. He flips you back over and you gasp, whimpering as his half-hard member nudges your spot. He brushes his lips over your neck and growls in your ear. "Gladly."

[onceuponamirror]

2.22 thoughts

first, my spare complaints:

-i still don’t buy cheryl-as-a-serpent logic, but god do i love throwbacks, so just in filming it like jughead’s jacket scene at the end of s1, somehow, i didn’t hate the moment. the dumbass in me just wants to enjoy the aesthetic for once. which is solid praise considering how i went into it. so like, not buying it, but willing to not dwell. for now. 

-why did they have to make sheriff minetta hot?? damn 

-the serpent royalty stuff never fails to make me roll my eyes so far into the back of my head they’ll one day get stuck there, but the way this episode was written and as it framed jughead’s sense of loyalty and desire for community from the rest of the season, i have to begrudgingly give it up for yet another scene that worked as a scene. 

(as in, once you squint, the entire logic still falls apart. immediately. it’s ridiculous. he’s still sixteen, and FP’s character arc should be like---learning not be a ginormous quitter, because that’s really his main character trait) (but in the moment, at such a normal thing like a barbecue with a handful of people, it just...i am loathe to admit, basically worked) (for a minute. until you actually think about it. my head still spins) (have a sense of responsibility for your kid and maybe like, let him focus on his education not being a gaNG leADEr, let alone drag betty, the only kid i’ve ever seen studying or doing homework, into it) (FP. literally what the hell, be a PARENT)

-i'm not touching veronica (also sixteen) opening a speakeasy. this one is so silly i just can't

-on the one hand, did i really expect RAS to give up a silence of the lambs homage? no. is it the one time a homage was that appropriate? another begrudging yes. although it’s still very hard to buy hapless hal as a demented serial killer---sorry, i just hardly see it---and the hyper dramatic musical score at first annoyed the fuck out of me, by the end of the scene, i was like, WALK bitch and i once again....realized that the scene actually....worked. and in hindsight, felt really necessary for betty’s closure after what they did to her all season.

you may noticed that my complaints are not nearly as waxing and frustrated as usual, and perhaps actually not fully complaints, but compliments through gritted teeth. except for the serpent king stuff. that’s not a compliment. that’s full throttle stupid.

but---frankly, i actually enjoyed the episode.

oops

i thought the full circle framing worked, the music was really on game---jughead leading the serpents out with some gregorian top 40 was a solid choice---and even though josie only came out once again to sing for cinematic effect, let it be known the haunting quality of her voice works for this. 

archie really shone in this episode, highlighting a lot of what i like about him and acknowledging the PTSD, and representing some real brevity and redemption. 

veronica always toes the camp and snark in a way that should be cheesy, but it’s so snide that i love it and can overlook the part of my brain that reminds me of how messy her arc has been morally and not really feeling like that was resolved. 

jughead entered into the season still feeling a complete loner and without identity and exited it with a really visceral sense of pride and community that, despite all of my raging and griping all year, worked in the end, if only in this moment.

and betty---even betty, whose plotline was the most overshadowed and wacky and the most nonsense i’d ever seen, walked out of that mess with the first acknowledgement that she’s in control of her own life. and through all that horror, this episode dealt with that in a way that is a relief. 

the plot of the finale was measured, tied up loose ends, addressed character issues, mental health, family dynamics, and relationships (for the most part, anyway), and the open threads from the finale weren’t too small or too big, and just intriguing enough without overshadowing the character work done in the episode. 

like, polly is such a fascinating character to me, someone so headstrong but so stripped of any identity except as a pawn that of course this is where she dives. i am hopeful this will explore some of that, and while i’m hesitant about any aesthetic plotline at this point, for now i actually have an open mind. 

and then hiram’s Council Of Doom was the closest thing to a grounded organization we’ve seen so far on this show, and eerily close with what my writer’s group was speculating for a certain project, and set up, dare i say, potential.

honestly, it’s when riverdale swells pointlessly and so dramatically that i want to storm, but when it focuses on character before aesthetic, it reminds us of why we fell down this neon dreamboat rabbit hole in the first place. i really, really hope there was a lesson learned through s2, one that they finally figured out in the end. maybe.

all this being said, i do still agree with a lot of what the AV club said in their review of the episode. but....for me, especially as someone so on my last nerve with this show but stubbornly sticking along, it did feel nice for once to walk out of an episode having enjoyed it. idk guys!

i’m not saying this episode magically saved this sentient vortex of a season (i do not forgive, i do not forget) nor was it not inevitably overshadowed by said vortex, but in terms of much of the effective tonal core of the show, i saw it again. and i enjoyed it.

bonus thoughts

“snakes in a barrel” god bless this game 

[niawiththenina-blog]

Omar Anthony Brings The Thunder!

Hey, BT fans! We have a special guest on board today. You may know him for lighting it up on the Thunder's roster this season, giving us reason to believe that he's one of the best two-way players in the game. Is he ready? Let's hope so!

Niani Blanco: You all ready?

Omar Anthony: Let’s get it.

It’s crazy how life completely switches up on us. When we booked the interview, you weren’t an All Star this year, now here we are! Twitter was just up in arms since many feel as if you were snubbed, and now you’ll be replacing DeMarcus Cousins for Team LeBron. This is your 5th time, correct? How do you feel about that?

Yeah, that’s crazy. I always enjoy the energy of the guys when we’re brought together for the fans and given the opportunity to just have fun and do what we love. It really surprised me when Boog got injured but he’s a tough guy and I know he’ll come through. As far as the timing and the way things happened, it is what it is. It’s a great experience and I’m thankful but I’m still focused on working with my guys to cap this season off the best way we can.

Speaking of All Star weekend, the break is coming and I’m seeing that a lot of players are exhausted, injuries are knocking players out one by one and there’s been a lot of drama in the league this season, so I’m guessing this time-off will do everyone good. How are you feeling these days, O?

[Omar shakes his head, experiencing a moment of obvious discomfort.] I've been there, you know? So it's a bit of a challenge seeing it happen so suddenly and like I said, the timing is just wild. I don't pay too much attention to the extra commotion that goes down though. It's straight ball for me, and it's all about the game so i'm feeling good. Feelin' healthy. I'm in a good frame of mind these days, just tryna keep developing as a player.

That’s good to hear! With your past injury history, how have you been able to stay so healthy, but still play at your fullest potential this season?

For me it's about having a way with balance. Making sure I'm not exceeding my physical abilities and still training for maximum endurance and just truly challenging myself to play as safe and competitive as possible at my position.

Two of the worst injuries to happen this season came from the Celtics/Cavs season opener with Gordon Hayward, in which we seen his leg collapse on national television. Then at the end of the January, Isaiah Canaan, suffered a gruesome injury that displayed his foot going in a completely different direction. It’s been over 3 years since your injury that ultimately shook Team USA and every audience watching. As these type of injuries happen, players slowly but surely get written off in regards to making a comeback. Fortunately for you, you’ve come back to the league stronger and you’re in a rebuilding phase, I believe. Do you have any advice for players that are facing this type of adversity?

Uh yeah, I mean it’s always a tough place to be in at the beginning of it all. Especially with guys like Gordon and Isaiah. You’re gonna have days when you don’t see or feel the progression, days when you’re ready to sit out but you have to keep pushing. Believing in the process is very important and trusting your greater purpose is the main focus and ultimately what’s gonna put you back on the grid of where you need to be. I had to get used to the fact that it was my time to sit back and re-adjust, learn some things about myself and the game and apply that to the transitions that followed my injury.

Hopefully, any player that is going through an injury as gruesome as those can take your story as an example and follow suit. You’ve been able to handle that life hurdle and completely turn your life around for the better. You now play for Oklahoma City, which a lot of people didn’t see coming, including myself. On July 6th, the Pacers and Thunder came to an agreement that would send you to OKC, sending Victor Oladipo and Domantas Sabonis to Indy. What was your honest reaction when you found out you’d be leaving Indiana to join Russell Westbrook?

I was real excited and hopeful for us as a team. I wasn't really focusing on what it could do for me as an individual at the beginning. I was more so looking forward to what I could bring to the franchise and what motives I could help commit to with the team. And I mean since, it's been real fun. The livelihood of my guys and all the energy brought forward is inspiring, truly inspiring.

Once everyone found out that Carmelo Anthony would be apart of the squad as well, there was so much hype behind the team, rightfully so. But with praise comes criticism, so there was also talk from fans that they didn’t feel as if you all would work together well because of ball-hogging. Did you ever doubt success coming from this team because of the dominant players you play alongside of?

We're all considered elite athletes and that comes with a lot of responsibility. Having an identity was one of the biggest things I felt we had to wrap our heads around as individual players and those guys are awesome. They're really awesome players but I think for me, it just came to digesting the fact that it wasn't about lead scoring. In this league, you can't generate all of your energy around just scoring, you have to be able to bring that 1 on 1 defense and all-team defense in order to make plays count because it doesn't do us much good if we're all scoring but allowing the opposing team to put up just as many points on the board. So that's a lesson I learned as I became apart of such a new and freshly established nucleus. I wouldn't say I ever doubted the success, but I knew that it would take a lot more than putting up points from each of us and I think we've all done a great job by buying into the overall growth of the team.

That’s interesting. I’ve seen you guys play plenty of times now, and it seems that your role on your team is different than what you’re accustomed to. Many see it as you playing Robin to Russell, who is seen as Batman. Being that you come from being the number one man, the go-to, how does it feel to know that, you’re more of a second option?

[Omar cracks into a grin before chuckling.] Um, people are gonna call it how they see things and many have different opinions on that. I've always wanted to be a player who could manage all things, and becoming apart of OKC meant being able to step up defensively. I want to be one of the most complete players in this league and you know, that's hard to find. Guys don't really want to attack or approach being able to cultivate a victory by doing more than just putting up numbers. In helping to put this team together, I know I'm not going to be a guy that's gonna be able to score every night so my approach is, what else can I do to take else to the next level? You know, especially playing alongside a guy as dominant as Westbrook.

It’s a real question to ask because we seen Kyrie stand as LeBron’s Robin in Cleveland, and he came to a point where he was tired of that and wanted to run his own show. You had your own team in Indiana, but you couldn’t attract the caliber of talent that you needed to be a threat to LeBron in the East. You’re on a better team now that more so belongs to Westbrook, so do you feel as if you’ll ever get tired of that? Do you feel as if you deserve to go to a team and have that organization build around you rather than use you as a bonus to another player?

Nah, I'm not an 'all about me' or 'look what I can do' type of player. It means more to me to be capable of adapting to any team, but I ain't tryna team hop. [He chuckles.] For now, OKC is a great place to build the characteristics that will brand me as an overall player in the future. Right now, I'm proving myself as someone who can keep control from all aspects of the ball and wherever I'm needed on the court to execute each play, that's where I'll be until the momentum is built and it's time to take it to another level.

Cool. I respect that! I really do. We know way too many players that are okay with playing with whomever’s at the top at the time, simply lucking up for a ring. But we can save that for another conversation! Um.. (Niani dramatically stacked a batch of papers together in front of her after subliminally dropping several hints.)

Let me ask you this and then we can move onto something else. Do you feel like your play will be overshadowed even more since you are in the West, which is clearly the more competitive conference? I personally feel as if it will and the All Star selection is a great example of that. For that reason, while I do believe that you should be an All Star, I understood why you weren’t. There is a lot of talent in the West and unfortunately, everyone can’t be acknowledged in the manner that they believe they should. When there’s so much talent on one side of the league, you also have to consider the current record. And at the time of the voting selection, OKC wasn’t in the best position, considering how great of a team you have. Will any of this be motivation to go even harder next season to convince fans and the media that you’re All Star starter material?

[Omar laughs, immediately catching on to the insinuations.] Oh absolutely and that's a great question. Even while I don't limit myself to an All Star pick, it was something that stood out to the medias and eventually to myself. It definitely sucks in the beginning to not have that same appeal but it is just the genesis and if this season has taught me anything, it's taught me the maturity of my game. I came from Indy carrying and now I'm stacking up defensively just to create the balance between. So it is very motivating and I hope to create that atmosphere for the rest of the season into the next.

Switching gears here! You are one of the few players that are known to have a close friendship with F Kevin Durant. He received immaculate hate for deciding to leave Oklahoma City to join the Warriors in Golden State. What were your thoughts when he shocked the world on the 4th of July?

It’s always been great energy with KD and when you’re homies off the court, you have an understanding of one another and what’s best for him couldn’t be determined by anyone but him. I didn’t really have an opinion about it then and I really don’t now, it’s just good to see him doing what makes him happy.

And I can attest to that. Throughout the whole process of him transitioning there, he has always cited you as one of the few that continued to show him love regardless of the move, which is dope to see.

It’s funny because it seems as if you two are in the running for DPOY. [Defensive Player of the Year] No shade, but I feel like I have to hide my pen because you might finesse and actually steal it from me! (She chuckled.) Knowing that you two are cool, it’s hilarious watching you play against each other. You both have stepped it up tremendously on the defensive side, but I don’t know... You were cooking him! You son’d him on that steal early in the game and he literally came back swooped the ball back. If you’re watching and aren’t up to date to what I’m referring to, the Thunder played in Golden State on Tuesday night. Omar finished with 38 on 11/23 shooting, while KD put up 33 in his 125-105 loss. What I love to see when you guys play is that you both feed off of each other’s energy. It’s weird! Late in the third though, you caught another steal and hit Slim with a little crossover and the step-back dime. As you know, I’m a person that lives to clown him as much as possible, so it’s no surprise that I loved every minute of it! Is it simply your competitive nature that drives you to play even harder against guys you’re cool with?

All love. [Omar nods and makes brief eye contact with Niani before beginning to laugh at her latest remark.] When the energy is crazy and you both have that competitive nature, it’s always a fun and interesting ball game. [He paused, recalling the night against the Warriors as Niani caught the audience up.] It’s definitely a live experience and considering we both love demanding the handle and overall control on defense, it was bound to be a great play on play competition. KD is tragic when it comes to driving and getting in the paint to knock it down, so I knew what I had to do. My work was cut out for me and I know he knew his was too and it we gave each other the challenge we needed and gave the fans a show, so it was good energy. We’ve practiced together in off season before and even caught a couple workouts so having to see each other on opposing teams was just a fun experience and match-up.

You guys definitely put on a show, but in the end, OKC was able to comfortably close out in Oakland.

With that being said, I feel like this question is necessary since we’ve talked about players such as LeBron, Kevin and Kyrie, all of which have made bold moves regarding their futures in the league. This conversation has been debated heavily over the years, especially when LeBron chose to leave Cleveland to play for the Heat. Do you feel that it’s fair that teams can make these decisions where they move and/or add players in any way that they feel and nothing is questioned. But when a player makes his own decision for himself, he is then looked at as disloyal. You as a player that requested a trade through your agent, do you feel that it’s fair to you and to other players to receive that kind of backlash when you simply want to be in the best situation possible?

Um, that’s difficult to say. It’s really a gamble and you know, as players we’re focused on developing into high priority prospects who are able to pull others into perspective when we’re ready for change. So whether it’s individually feeling unchallenged or the franchise is opening up to a change and you just don’t fit the transition, there’s more to it for everyone than what’s discussed in public media. All things considered though, it can be unfair but it’s life, it’s the game and there’s ins and outs to all of it. We just have to demand what we want most out of it.

Very true. As a fan and a part of the media, I hate how the moral status and characters of players are criticized simply off of a professional move. You received some flack from your Indiana following towards the end of last season, do you regret the way you handled the trade request in Indiana? You reportedly let them know days before the draft, leaving them with little to no time to prepare.

That’s what it is. I feel like no matter how much we put up, it’ll never be good enough for those who don’t understand or can’t really relate to what we’re trying to do more so as players than anything else. Reciprocity has to come in somewhere and that’s anywhere in life. You wouldn’t stay at a company that can’t surround you with a team to help it succeed, right? No matter how great their appreciation presumes to be, at some point you have and weigh the options. That’s how it is. I don’t have any regrets. We had conversations about the future of the team and I stayed in the loop to prove my dedication but I think P [Indiana Pacers' GM, Kevin Pritchard] knew that it was time. It may not have seemed like the best time but everything happens for a reason and I felt good about the decision to move on.

That’s a great way to look at it. I feel like no matter how many times players explain it, the fans will still never be able to truly understand. Which is fine. The hate comes with the territory. I do believe though that the fans are seemingly forgiving so I feel once the wound isn’t so fresh, they’ll be more open to decisions like those.

Your first game back in Indy was on December 13th. How was it playing back at Bankers Life Fieldhouse as a visitor for the first time? Was the crowd reception you received a surprise?

[He nods in agreement to her starting statement.] Um, it was great for me. You can’t ever really predict the crowd to be receptive of you when you’re playing for a different team but it was still a good night. All smiles from my end. It was great to see everyone, from players to training staff to coaches. You know, I enjoyed my time being with those guys but life goes on. Players move on, teams move on and it is what it is.

You clearly earned the warm welcome despite your new home now, so I’m glad that the fans and everyone there was able to show you that they do appreciate everything you’ve done for that team and the city.

Moving forward! Alright, I’m excited to ask you about this! You recently collaborated with Nike and PlayStation to create what you like to call the PG-2 PlayStation Colorways. These limited edition kicks will be available officially Saturday. I seen the previews and let me just say that...I wear an 8 1/2. So if you could slide my pair through, that would be dope. I wasn’t gonna go through this show today without putting that out there. Matter of fact...hold on.. (Niani playfully joked with the athlete while speedily jotting down her shoe information on a loose leaf sheet of paper.) I wrote it down for ya, just so you don’t forget! But seriously though, how did this idea even come about?

Oh yeah, definitely.

[Omar laughs, shaking his head while rubbing both hands together as Niani continues.] So you like an 8 1/2 solid or what? I know things get a lil' complicated for y’all women. Size 7 in the heels, size 8 in sneakers. [He raises his hands up in defense and shrugs his shoulders jokingly.] I just gotta be sure, but I got you. I’m a gamer at heart, always been a gamer and I wanted something exclusively for the hoopers who ball hard and have a love for the game whether on the court or with the controller. Unlike the PG1, it’s a lot more free-formed and creative collaboration but it still provides the same traction and forefoot security, it’s just a gamer exclusive.

Seeeeee! (Her index finger directly pointed in Omar’s direction in a joyous manner.) I knew I liked you! You’re smart! I’m a 8 1/2 solid, though. I’ll be waiting on my care package.

The collaboration is super nice. I’ve looked into the concept and I’m obviously a fan, and I’m sure the shoes will gravitate to both NBA fans but gamers as well. Like I said the P2s drop February 10th, this Saturday. And they’re going for $110 for a pair. Let me know if you guys will be copping those this weekend. Ladies, if you’re still lost on a gift idea, there you go!

Okay, so, I asked my followers if they had any questions for you today and we have a little time to ask maybe one or two. Is that cool with you?

[Omar triggered both of his hand towards the filming device as Niani announced the drop of his second signature shoe.] Go for it! It’s always interesting to hear from the audience.

Alright, great! You have a question from Twitter user - @MP2FO. He says, “I’m a huge OA fan. What I wanna know is what is O’s favorite play of himself so far. From either the Pacer era or now in Thunder.” Okay, so that’s a really nice question. Basically, he wants to know what play stands out in your mind the most? What play of yours can you still relive over and over and be the most proud about?

Ah man, that’s hard. That is a good question, though. Aight, so you might consider this a cop-out but honestly, my best plays have been on the defensive side of the ball so far this season. Every play that I could prove myself to be a consistent rebounder and pass deflector is my favorite because it’s satisfying to accomplish very different handles than I’m used to against even more competitive teams.

(Nia paused, slitting her eyes at Omar to express her disinterest in his response.) O, now you know! You’re a smart man though. You knew the side eye was coming! I’ll give you that.

Okay, we can do one more! Hm...alright. Next one is from user - @mare_bear_baum. So, she asked, “Now that your family has moved to Oklahoma City, what is your favorite thing to do there?” That’s a good question. Do you even get out of the house?! (She playfully chuckled.)

[Omar folded his arms in front of him, laughing at her reaction to his simple reply.] It’s the truth!

Not for nothing, OKC is probably one of the chillest cities I’ve ever lived. I’m still able to do what I’ve done elsewhere so that’s mostly fishing, catch a couple date nights with the wife when I can but it’s mostly practicing and tryna sleep when I can. Sleeping is probably my favorite thing to do because it’s only that third month and it’s challenging. [He smirked, shaking his head as he reflected on the thought of his third born.]

Being that I have an old soul, I can appreciate the fact that you just gave an old man ass answer. It’s all good though! No look.. (Dropping her face into her lap, Niani burst into abrupt laughter once O revealed his simple, but surprising interests.) Fishing and sleeping — alright now, Grandpa! You go, Gramps!

Aside from your lit lifestyle, you and your wife, Kimiliana, did welcome a gorgeous babygirl named Onyx! Have you been put on diaper duty yet?

That’s how it is now. [Reclining back into his chair, Omar placed his open hands against the table and nodded in agreement with Niani.] I don’t think I’m there yet though. I don’t get the naps like Gramps. [He began laughing.] It’s either a late sleep in or I pass out early and with two toddlers, that ain’t too often.

But you know it. She takes care of the feeding so when I’m home, it’s like a cycle. She feeds and burps while I chill and do what I have to do then we alternate and I change the diapers, get her bathed up and back to sleep. That’s all she do anyways so we have that in common so far. [He chuckles.]

I love that your family life is such a priority to you guys. It’s so easy to get caught into other aspects once you receive an opportunity such as playing in the NBA. So to focus on the wellbeing of those around you and that time that can’t be replaced is awesome.

I have some advice though! From one parent to another, please appreciate them at this point. Appreciating them spitting up on you and you having to wake up in the middle of the night. Once they gain their personalities, attitudes and some sort of independence, it’s a wrap. You’re gonna miss these simpler days! I know you have toddlers now, but even at their ages, it’s still tolerable. Now, when the twins hit 6...7? That’s when the madness begins.

You’re doing well with opening up and I’d like to keep that going. Because you rarely give interviews of this caliber and you’re one of the more quieter players in the league, I want fans to get to know you as much as possible while i have you here. So, if you could, give me about 10 things about yourself that most people wouldn’t know about you. They can be about anything. 10 facts about Omar Anthony, and go!

I definitely look forward to valuing them as best as I possibly can. They’re the greatest part of me as far as I see it and you’re right? The time will eventually come when they aren’t as receptive of my love or guidance so I have to give as much of it and enjoy as much of who they are now as possible.

[Now more comfortable with the layout of the interview, Omar leans forward again and strokes the extension of his beard as he ponders the challenge Niani places before him.] Hm.. 10 things.. I make a mean lemon garlic chicken and rice. I love carrot cake. My favorite color is red. I am an awful soccer player. I played the tuba in middle school. I binge watch almost every show on Netflix. I match my boxers and my socks. I wanted to be a marine biologist when I was a kid. I like reading. And the PG2s drop Saturday, February 10th and the first 50 gamers to drop forty in Park against me and the homies get their first pair free.

Okay, that was good! Let’s address a few things though. (She briefly nodded in agreement.) My girl Kimi hasn’t died from any food-related illnesses so i guess I can take you up on that. I couldn’t picture you as a decent soccer player in any lifetime, so that really isn’t a shocker. What I need to see pictures of is you playing the tuba. That just sounds like roasting material and let me just say... I’m all here for it. As far as anything else, nothing surprises me at this point with you. Matching your socks with your boxers? I don’t wanna call you an old man again...but I’m sure that’s some stuff my Abuelito would be on. But I’m gonna let you live!

I have about two more questions for you and then I’m gonna let you go about your day because you do have a huge game tonight. So, this will be your 8th year in the league. What I wanna know is, years from now, when this is all said and done, when your number is retired and you’re done playing. How would you want fans to view you? You could take this in many directions. You can say how you want to be remembered as a player, as a person or even both. And with that, do you feel as if you’re currently making the right steps in order to be seen that way or do you still have ways to go?

Haha, you stay with the jokes!

That’s deep. Overall, I would definitely want anyone who’s a fan of the game to remember me for who I am as a player. That’s what I’m working at now in every practice, shoot-around, drills off and on the court, that’s what I’m striving for. To be able to sit back and appreciate the excellence of completion in being an all around player. I wanna be one of the top defensive handlers who can still put up numbers when it’s time to, catch rebounds, intercept quick passes, the whole nine. I wanna retire a complete player with aggression and respect earned offensively and defensively. I’m on the right path but there will always be room for growth and development until I get there.

I’d like to think that I can easily switch it up.

I have to agree that you’re on the right path. I’ve watched you play for the last couple of years and I’ve seen so many say things like your prime is wasting away and your best years are behind you. And I couldn’t believe this is what the narrative was of you, considering how young you were and the amount of talent that you’ve displayed. While I feel like this is going to be your best season so far, I don’t even think we’ve seen your prime years yet. I feel like as older players start to leave the league, we’re going to be able to see what guys like yourself have to bring to the table on the big stage.

So, I know that your main focus as of now is to finish out the season as a higher seed and to make a huge playoff run in hopes to compete for a championship. But outside of basketball, do you have anything else that you’d like to dabble into in the near future? Acting, modeling, music, business ventures? What can we expect to see from you?

Yeah, definitely. The momentum has built up from the days behind my injury up until now and it’s a lot of strategy and leveling that has to take place for my full potential to make a play but I’ll get there for sure. It’s a blessing to have people like yourself who have motivated me through and through by just observing the energy and drive I tried to push out after I came back in 2015.

Um, I don’t know. I kinda got tunnel vision right now but I mean other than the obvious, I am looking forward to representing Kimiliana’s new men’s collection she’s been working hard on for us. That’s something I’m always happy to be apart of because she’s always finding new ways to help me express myself and I can appreciate that. Other than that, we’ve been putting these vlogs together for the fans just so they can see a little bit behind the scenes of our lives. You know, get to know us a little better just so they can learn how to normalize us again and realize that we ain’t much different from them. That’ll be on YouTube and Facebook. And a ring. Oh I said that already, huh? [He laughs while clapping his hands together.] Yeah, a ring. Rather sooner than later.

Yes. Yes.. I’m positively sure that you already said that. (Shaking her head at his continued acknowledgment of his ultimate goal, Niani was able to playfully laugh off at the repetition.) I get it though! The ring is definitely coming.

Well, well, well, O! I don’t know about you but it was a pleasure having you here today. I’m well aware that you often deny most interviews that are requested of you, so I’m very thankful that you decided to sign on for my shenanigans. I didn’t expect you to get this open with me, but I’m glad that you felt comfortable enough with doing so on this platform. You have anything else to add? Did I miss anything?

[Smiling, O shook his head and held his fist up to hers to initiate a quick dap.] I think you covered everything, boss. I appreciate you asking me to come on and asking some really great questions. It’s cool to see a spin on sports media with a female host. Keep doing your thing, Nia B and thanks for having me!

Aw, I try, I try! (Granting him with the action of solidarity using her fist, Niani continued to close out their highly-anticipated sit down.) All love!

Alright, that’s a wrap, guys! If you’re wanting to see Omar Anthony and his team ball out tonight and you’re in the area, you can catch them at the Staples Center tonight. They are visitors to the Los Angeles Lakers! For those at home, you can tune in on TNT with the Inside the NBA crew. His shoes with PlayStation, the P2’s, drop Saturday! Be sure to cop those. Omar will be starting in next week’s All Star game as well, you won’t wanna miss that. For anything else, make sure you’re following all of his social media handles that are displayed below. O, it’s been real! Best of luck to you in everything you have coming up. I hope that you’ll be back really soon! Enjoy this weather while you’re out here.

Guys, that is all for Ball Talk with Nia B. today. I will see you guys tomorrow to discuss the trade deadline moves. Enjoy the rest of this Friday-eve!

Oh absolutely. Again, I appreciate you having me. [O held his hand up to initiated a deuce to the camera filming the two of them.] See ya, guys!