#not only does it assure that they stay quiet but it also means he doesn't have to feel too involve just watch and wait until they collapse

[skeletonh0e]

yay you do write for males! That’s awesome :) most of the time the x reader girlies only write for girls (which is totally fair it’s not like it’s easy and stuff ya know- cause of the lack of…well let’s just say…haha penis.)

could I request the skeleton huzz’s reaction to an SO that died in lien of duty? We need a significant amount of angst on this blog. There is a lack for sadness

gender neutral

As I said I mainly struggle with the nsfw element cuz bro

What even are dicks

But anyway, guess it is high time for some angst ain't it? For this ask I went with the reader being a part of the royal guard and a monster but the exact species isn't stated

Tw: Unhealthy coping mechanisms (Fell, Horror, Lust & Fresh), Revenge (Horror & Fresh), and a general one for grief / mental breakdowns

The boys cope with lost

Classic Sans:

Man full blown shuts down

Boy does not cope with emotions well, especially with such extremely negative emotions at that. So for the past few days man just straight up disappears

He keeps contact with Papyrus but no one else sees Sans for awhile and it's concerning

He is not the type to have loud dramatic break downs but tears are shed, he weeps silently and in ragged breaths. And he's just....nearly completely unresponsive otherwise

It's a good thing Pap is there, man probably wouldn't even be eating otherwise

He'll pull himself up eventually, he does later do the traditional ritual of sprinkling your dust on your favorite items and keeping any keep sakes from your relationship though doesn't make any type of big deal about it in the sense it's not public

Bro keeps his mourning private

Once he's out and moving again he'll be the same but noticeably more somber, quiet and generally somber.

Especially anytime he passes some of the places you two used to hang out a lot at

I like to think he does have a conversation with Undyne later, talking about what happened and how you're both dealing with it. It's a bittersweet moment for the two of them, with Undyne assuring him that your death is not in vain and your memory will always live on

The captain of the royal guard also grieves for you

He'll move on, he'll be fine, he'll accept what happened and he'll cope if not for his brother's sake alone, but anytime your death is a sore spot and there's not a day that goes by when he doesn't miss you

Underswap Sans:

The shell shock is apparent

The moment Alphys hands him your pile of dust and explains what happens, he is utterly shook to his core

And then....he laughs....?

Blue: "Hahaha ha! okay....this is a really messed up joke? did my brother put you up to this? didn't know he could be so mean! Y/N! my beloved? come out! you know better than to scare me like this!"

But you don't come out, Alphys doesn't laugh, his brother just looks....disheartened

He's clinging onto denial so hard but the evidence to the countary is staring him right in the face

And then he starts to cry, borderline break down before he let's out broken messy sobs

Papyrus scoops him up and takes him home, deciding to stay beside him for the rest of the day

He's genuinely lost at what to do, what can he do from here, this wasn't supposed to happen, how can it happen?

Depression hits him hard and he's not really up for much of anything, lays around clinging onto your things and just cries for the next couple of days

He'll piece himself back together slowly with the help of Papyrus, probably gets back to own habits slowly but....

Does he even want to join the royal guard anymore? All it does is remind him of you now and well....

Maybe doesn't abandon the dream entirely but doesn't seem up to the task much

For being someone so magnificent he wasn't able to help you, to save you, would you be alive if he was actually good enough?

Maybe he's not such a magnificent hero after all, but he'll try to become one. For you. Because that's what you deserved.

Underfell Sans:

His default reaction is anger and boo howdy does it come through here

Undyne arrives, tells him and he's silent for a solid minute. And then he's PISSED

He explodes at her, the fuck do you mean his partner is dead!? What kind of captain is she!? Talks about how great she is and then let's one of her best soldiers die!? Where the fuck was she!?

The verbal lashing is brutal and frankly hard to watch

Undyne: "I did everything I could!"

Red: "well it clearly wasn't good was it!?"

It looks like a fight might break down but he eventually just storms off, bitter and angry still. And he's not just angry at Undyne he's angry at you for staying in such a risky job and not protecting yourself better, he's angry at whoever fucking killed you, he's angry at himself for not being there, he's just....angry

And then he's sad.

He'll cry behind closed doors then and only then, otherwise he's doing everything in his power to make sure no one knows his suffering

Grumpier and snapper than usual, especially if anyone dares to bring up your name around him

He is....drinking a lot, A LOT more than usual and if it weren't for his brother he might be dead of alcohol poisoning himself. It's bad. And it stays that way for awhile.

Papyrus and the many residents of Snowdin genuinely fear he won't recover or ever quit be the same again, Papyrus even offers that the two of them avenge you somehow hoping to get him back to normal somehow but....he doesn't even humor the idea

It won't bring you back....what's the point?

Horrortale Sans:

Hoo boy

You being a part of the royal guard had always been a point of contention in your relationship but one that was manageable, and he doesn't really like Queen Undyne for several reasons. The moment he heard you were dead?

There was no question about it, something in that man snapped, whoever is responsible is dead and that in that mind that isn't just whoever killed you but all the royal guard then Undyne herself

He's never been that mentally stable, he doesn't have a lot of things that bring him joy anymore, but you managed to do so in this god forsaken place and he is out for blood. No one can talk him out of it, not even his brother, maybe you could have but

You aren't here anymore are you?

Even if he dies or gets hurt in the battle he really does not care, he went completely feral and honestly he's hurting so much....joining you in death does sound a bit appealing....

He lives though, now just having a pile of dust to his name....

He didn't even get to say good bye.

Everyone stays wary of him for awhile, he seems almost catatonic or zombie like, being around but not entirely there in a sense

He's quick to kill people more than usual, snappier, less patient and has even been seen violently slamming his head against the wall at certain times

Constantly flip flopping between "it should have been me" or "we should have never got together" or even just going "nah i'm fine i even forgot who i was upset about" when it's the furthermost thing from the truth

Man will never truly recover and it's something everyone comes to learn

Underlust Sans:

I haven't finished my epic lore post for how I write his universe but TLDR for rn, the royal guard does exist and it's mostly normal! Hell, he frequently services them and it was probably how you two met

He loved boasting about how his partner was part of such a cool job and loved being eye candy on your arm while you walked around in your armor

Yeah, it's all fun and games until you don't arrive home one night....he already gets a bad feeling but once there's a knock on the door and it's just Undyne there.....oh no

Tries not to cry, tries to keep it together but before he knows it there's runny mascara running down his face and he quickly turns into an emotional mess

This can't be happening, it can't be happening, it isn't happening, it's a bad dream and he'll wake up in your arms then you'll both make some dumb jokes

He does cry himself to sleep, he does wake up, but you're not there

He tries to just carry on per usual, he does his job, he does his typical stuff but it's painfully clear he's barely holding it together

While working with a client, they happened to call him the same nickname you frequently used and he cannot stop himself from breaking down in front of them

He is....excused and given some time off, even if he doesn't want it

Definitely getting drunk as well as....trying some other substances, anything to get his mind off what happened...thankfully doesn't get hooked, Papyrus intervenes before it can get that far but fuck man

This is why he rarely does romantic shit with anyone, it always ends bad, always does and now....

He's frequently found hugging your pillow, wearing your clothes, and clinging to what little he has left of you like a sad cat. Desperately sniffing them for even the faintest hint of your scent

He just wants you back

Fresh Sans:

You're.....gone?

Fresh has always had a weird relationship to death, he fears it and does anything to survive....but like...he's never been close enough to anyone to consider how it'll happen to others or if he did he never cared about them

You though? He cared about you, really cared about you and you're gone. He's never experienced this level of grief before

He's just frozen for a bit, looking at a pile of your dust and the Undyne from your universe doesn't know how to respond much as Fresh just stands there, she gently gos to place a hand on his shoulder then he not only grabs it but proceeds to violently twist her arm

"w h y d i d y o u l e t t h i s h a p p e n ?"

It's easy to forget that underneath all that silliness Fresh is a terrifying creature capable of doing some fucked up things, but rest assured no one in your world forgot that today

He laid that entire universe to ruin, giving Error a good run for his money, man went completely fucking insane. Laughing, crying, screaming and doing shit straight of a nightmare, nothing is left.

Some of the other Sanses tried to stop him but there was barely anything they could do, they just barely managed to awkwardly brag him away once he's done raging and he breaks down finally

At the end....he just....cries....

He's not seen for awhile and when he is seen, he's....normal? Acting like nothing happened and just doesn't acknowledge when your name is said

He's fine :)

Grief is tearing him apart from the inside but he just lives in a state of deliberate ignorance, pretending to forget

But he remembers everything

[yesimwriting]

we need more felix and lovie content i miss themmm

i miss them too,, i have so many drafts and half finished fics with them but i've had so little energy/time to actually finish any of them bc of finals

but i'm pretty caught up with school rn (by tuesday i'll be on summer break!!) so here's a bit of an i'm-sorry-for-being-absent drabble :)

The nail of your thumb drags against the edge of the page, finally getting the glue to fully adhere to the page.

You press your back against the wood surface of your desk chair to admire your handiwork. The background of your latest scrapbook page has come together just the way you wanted it to. You pick up the book carefully before turning your body.

"Lex," you beam.

Felix doesn't sit up fully, but he does lift his head. The arm holding up his copy of the latest Harry Potter relaxing. "Oh," he mumbles it in that way that reminds you of one of the things you like best about him. He has this talent for giving attention. Where other people would just be polite without a second thought, Felix takes the time to really look before commending.

He pushes himself up in a way that awkwardly squishes your pillow. "That's good." Felix straightens, legs crossing beneath him. "That's really good, Lovie." His thumb tucks itself between the pages of his book, a make shift bookmark. "The edges, the paper..."

"Thank you." Another thing you love about Felix is the fact that you can always tell he means his praise. You turn forward, setting your scrapbook back onto your desk. "You should make one."

The corner of his mouth pulls itself into a version of a smile that's so soft you almost miss it. "Yeah?" You nod. Felix's smile shifts into something more assured. "Maybe tomorrow night."

You try to picture Felix spending a Saturday night in either your room or his, cutting up scraps of paper and gluing them down instead of at a bar or some party. The thought makes your feel warm in that way that's so exclusively Felix. It also feels blurry, intangible in its unlikeliness.

As happy as it'd make you, tonight was already surprising enough. It's not like Felix goes out every night, and this isn't the first time the two of you have stayed in on a Friday, but nights like these are rare. You can't picture two of these in a row.

"Tomorrow?" You pull your legs out from under your desk, entire body angling itself to the side so that it's easier to look at him. "Tomorrow's Saturday."

He lets out a partial laugh. "And you're dying for a rager?"

"No," you mumble, dragging out the vowel sound in an attempt to sound more sarcastic. "But you like going out." You lean forward, resting your chin against the chair's back. "And it's not like I hate going out, especially with you..." You trail off, eyes shifting away from Felix and towards the bed post closest to you. "And I don't want to be the reason you don't do things you like."

For a beat, the only sound is the low, rhythmic tapping of Felix's pointer finger against the spine of his book. "I like a lot of things."

You lift your head. "I know."

"I like doing things with you."

The warmth comes back with a vengeance. You tap your thumb against the side of your seat for the sake of doing something. "Me too."

Felix shifts, extending one leg to make himself more comfortable. "Good." He's so quiet for a second, you almost think that might be the end of the conversation. You're about to go back to picking out the pictures to finish off the page you'd been working on when he starts again, "So you don't need to worry about me resenting you."

Your eyes narrow. "I didn't say anything about you resenting me." Your chin lifts slightly, an attempt at displaying your indignation. "Why are you saying it like that was an option?"

He grins, dropping himself back onto your pillow. "No reason."

You roll your eyes at his sarcasm. He's the one that came over to your room without being asked to. "Sure."

"What?" His tone implies nothing but perfect innocence. He picks up his book, opening it as if he's done nothing wrong. "Y'should come over here before the resentment sets in and I lose all interest."

You let out a loud sigh, but move to stand regardless. "Yeah, that feels like a real possibility."

When you don't move, Felix glances away from his book. "You're not gonna come over here?" He looks up at you, a hint of a pout playing at his expression. "I was kidding."

You cross your arms, fighting against a smile. "I just stood up." That's not enough to convince him to stop looking at you like that. You take a few steps forward with a sigh that's more out of habit than anything else. "You are so dramatic."

You sit on your bed, crossing your legs beneath you. Felix shifts onto his side. His freehand finds your knee. "You cried because of this book."

Eyes narrowing, you lean forward to get a better sense of how far into the book he's gotten. "Wait a few chapters."

Felix snaps his head in your direction, "Lovie. You said you wouldn't--" Your sentence runs into his, "I didn't--I didn't spoil it."

He frowns, watching you skeptically. "That was mean."

"You started it." You're aware that you sound like a little kid, but you can't help it. With a sigh, you give up, laying down. He's taking up most of your bed, but you're far from uncomfortable. "Fine. I'm sorry."

With little warning, Felix leans forward and presses a kiss against your temple. "Want me to read to you?"

You're used to Felix's random displays of affection, but every once in awhile something will take you by so much surprise you feel it more than you should. You blink. "Yeah," you mumble, hoping that your voice comes out even, "Sounds nice."

Felix shifts onto his back, one hand finding your arm and the other holding his book.

----

taglist; @vader-is-hot @spiritofbuddha @getosangie @freyafriggafrey @ilovehyperfixating @aryiannarae @willowpains @ker0senebunny @lilyrachelcassidy @khxna @imbabycowboy

[lsd-astronaut]

Hello! I would like to ask for some headcanons about the four hobbits as parents! It can be any au (for example you can write about Frodo's interaction with Sam's children in "stays in the Shire " au)

I dreamt of Merry last night sooo I'm in a hobbit mood. Would love to write this for you hehehe

Like and reblog! Requests are open! Refer to my pinned post for rules

The hobbits as parents (Headcanons)

Frodo

I feel like he'd prefer to have just one kid as that is what he was used to when he was little. Plus, he is a hobbit that appreciates quiet, so I don't think a little army of his clones would be the best idea, especially after the Quest.

The kind of parent that will absolutely play music or straight up read to your pregnant belly because he says that his child should know who's their dad as soon as they open their eyes to the world.

Actually fainted when you gave birth but in his defence, he was extremely nervous about the whole ordeal and you can't really decide when an episode will hit you. But, rest assured, it was just one of these momentary things (like these rollercoaster videos) and he immediately went back to your side.

Frodo's child turns out to be even more of a menace than him when he was a fauntling, which is actually an achievement. Why, one time, Frodo appeared drenched while holding your kid, who looked extremely satisfied. Apparently, they had decided to run off, and Frodo, thinking they were going straight for the river, had rushed for them. The child had changed courses at the last moment, but Frodo hadn't been fast enough, and oh well.

Even if they give him almost daily heart attacks, Frodo absolutely adores his kid, and they adore him. He is the one to teach them how to read and write, and is also extremely proud when they defend themselves against rude hobbits. Yes, they are Frodo Baggins' kid. So what?

Sam

The best father, the best husband, the best everything.

Your first pregnancy went really smooth, but Sam was still a nervous wreck, constantly asking you whether you needed anything, and beating himself up if you felt any kind of discomfort or pain. Stupid Sam, he should be making it all easier for you, not more difficult. You chewed him up pretty thoroughly one day, but he maintains he absolutely needed that reality check.

Gets super serious the first weeks after your child is born. No "oh, but you owe me another baby" or "make me dinner, I'm tired and you only stay in bed all day." He hates that kind of people with all his heart. He changes diapers, keeps a feeding schedule, and even calms the baby down every time they get fussy so you can get the rest you deserve.

Had a secret competition he didn't really tell you about over whether the baby would say "dada" or "mama" first. His argument was that the "d" sound is easier to pronounce that "m". Was a bit disappointed when they said "mama", but your grin made the defeat feel way less sore. He'll get what he wants with the next kid, he's sure.

Teaches his kid to cook, garden, and many other skills. Even if they don't like it, he just wants to be sure they can fend for themselves in the real world when they leave the nest (he secretly hopes this never happens).

Merry

Okay, I'm gonna be completely honest. This guy does not strike me as someone who was looking to have kids; so when he learned that you were pregnant, he bluescreened for an entire minute and then had a little anxiety attack because he's not ready to be a father???

He decides to seek help from Sam who looks at him like he has grown two heads and basically sends him back to you with a kick on his rear and an apology in his mouth.

Finally, you both have a conversation, and this very silly hobbit tells you about his insecurities. He's too irresponsible and he doesn't see himself to be fit to be a role model for everyone, I mean he couldn't protect his own cousin! You reassure him that he is the only one that could do this, and that he is not alone so should he make a mistake he has you to rely on, and your child is not going to hate him.

From then on, he is hands on during your pregnancy. Any cravings you may have, no matter how unconventional or straight up not suit for consumption by anyone that isn't pregnant, will have Merry running around the Shire at any hour of the day and night. And if he has to wake up Sam at 3am on a weekday, well, you need it, and what are friends for?

Once your child is born, Merry cannot be convinced to stop holding them. He felt a connection as soon as he set eyes on them, like a little animal does when it imprints on the first thing they see, and Merry did not think his heart could hold more love. Oh, how wrong he was. He only allows you to hold them for feedings and honestly whenever you ask him, but if anyone else asks, Merry gives them a nasty glare and turns around very dramatically.

Talks to his child like they're a tiny adult and always seeks their opinion even if the child is more interested in eating their own shoes.

Also, if the kid has trouble talking in the first stages, he actually knows what they're saying even if to everyone else (but you) they are just babbling.

Pippin

Okay, before the Quest, he wanted a big family like the one he was born in, but afterwards he is very unsure about it. I feel like his sense of inadequacy and self-esteem issues got accentuated because of the events during the war. He was very happy when he learned you were pregnant but there was also a twinge of terror deep inside him.

Strangely quiet during the pregnancy, and although he reassures you that it is so he doesn't bother you in such a delicate condition, you know him better. At night, he will lay his cheek on your belly and just stay there, which has granted him some well aimed kicks from your very energetic child, but he never changes positions.

When your child is born, the midwife allows him to hold them after you've had your turn. He initially refuses with a sheepish smile and an excuse on "how he doesn't want to hurt the baby". You tell him to cut the bullshit and come hold them, which he does, and to your surprise, it's the most careful you've ever seen Pippin be. He needs to be corrected by the midwife on his arms' position and he profusely apologises but you reassure him he's doing great. He may or may not be crying as the baby grabs his finger with all their strength.

Now, the child is clearly Pippin's for they are extremely restless, and barely able to sleep through the night. Which has resulted you in losing sleep as well. One time, you shoot up as you hear the baby's piercing cries. As you go to get up, Pippin puts a hand on your shoulder and tells you to go back to sleep while he goes to calm them down. An hour later, you wake up again to find that Pippin has not come back so you go to check on him, and find him softly singing while gently rocking the crib, and your child fast asleep! It becomes the go-to method every time they cry, but it only works with Pippin, so hard time for Frodo or Merry when they are on babysitting duty.

Very present in your children's lives. He is their best friend and they know they can go to their "papa" for everything, good or bad. Pippin did get his wished for family in the end.

I hope it wasn't too obvious that I wrote Merry's and Pippin's first, and Frodo's and Sam's afterwards lmao also I went a bit crazy and then I remembered the request said "as parents" so that's why the pregnancy thing occupies so much in each one lol

[thenyoumightaswellwrestleangels]

this pain is inevitable (it sleeps with me while you're elsewhere)

love is not designed for the cynical - series masterlist here

pairing: jason todd x reader (gender neutral)

length: 900

genre: hurt/comfort, kinda fluff

warnings: reader is vaguely physically & mentally unwell and also has nightmares. jason is trying so hard and he's actually doing pretty well

a/n: this picks up right after I'm not me anymore (and maybe you're not you) but I think you can read this alone and it's fine

Jason stays with you that night, holding you in his arms and comforting you quietly, gently rocking you back and forth while you relax into him. Once your eyes flutter closed and you breathe out a sigh, he takes the opportunity to really look at you up close for the first time since he'd come back.

And what he sees worries him, strikings of fear hammering against his heart and tendrils of concern and anxiety sneaking around his throat. You don't look… well. You're not acting well. Wandering around alone late at night, not being concerned when faced with immediate danger, leaving your doors and windows unlocked - all of these set off alarm bells in his head.

But even worse than that is the sight before him now. He loves you still, of course - loves having you in his arms and feeling the way you press against him in your half-asleep state. But you're lighter than you used to be; if he trails his hands up and down our waist he can count your ribs. And there are deep purple circles under your eyes indicative of someone who is consistently not getting enough sleep.

If he listens closely, Jason thinks he can hear the rattling of your breath through your lungs, as if your body is so unwell that even breathing has become difficult… but maybe he's paranoid now. Maybe he's looking for more things to worry about.

The worry does come quickly, though, when you sigh against him and begin pushing yourself away and back into a sitting position. His heart lurches at any sort of divide between the two of you - after so long without you, the only thing in the world he wants now is to hold you close, close, close. And the longing glance you send to him tells him you feel the same. 

Regardless of that, though, you sit up straight and drag your laptop onto your lap, opening it and squinting against the harsh blue light as you glance at him over it. 

"I'll let you, um…" you start, and he can see it, the exhaustion, the fatigue, those walls of yours closing back up. "Thank you for coming by and talking. I appreciate it."

Jason frowns. "Of course, baby. I'm here for you, yea?" He doesn't miss the way your hands bunch the couch cushions at his words.

"I know," you respond, your voice quiet and weak. Jason moves towards you, gently taking the laptop and closing it, setting it back on the coffee table and ignoring your explanations of how much work you have to do.

"I think you need some sleep," is all he offers.

"You need sleep," you retort. Jason grins and pulls you back onto his lap, burying his face in your shoulder.

"We can do that together, you know."

"Jason -"

"Just sleep. I mean it," he soothes, squeezing your hips gently. "Come on, it's late… or early. I think the sun is gonna come up soon." You hum in reluctant agreement and let him nudge you to your feet, taking your hand in his and pulling you along down your hallway.

"You still a heavy sleeper?" you ask as you swing the door open to your bedroom. Jason assures that he is and narrows his eyes slightly, but before he can ask, you let out a quick, "I was just wondering." He tugs your hand gently and turns you to look at him.

"What's up?" he asks, and there's so much gentle, so much love and care and concern in his voice that it makes your breath catch.

"Just, um… I'm kind of a bad sleeper. You know, restless - I move a lot. I don't want to keep you awake." you explain. Jason pulls you towards him and wraps an arm around you, pressing a kiss to your temple.

"Don't worry about it, sweetheart," he whispers into your skin, holding onto you a little tighter.

But Jason doesn't sleep that night. He lays still, keeping his breaths even and deep while you curl into his chest. He watches as you shift and turn in your sleep, breath hitching in fear and body flinching in distress. 

No, he doesn't sleep through that. How could he? How could he when you, his person, his love, is so clearly scared and hurt? How could he when all he can think of is how many nights you've gone through this alone? He holds you through the night, whispering comfort into your hair that he hopes you can somehow hear through the fog of whatever nightmare has its hold on you and keeps stroking a gentle, soothing hand up and down your spine. When you start crying in your sleep, he holds you so tight he worries about leaving marks as he shushes you, promising you that he's here, that he's back and he'll keep you safe and nothing bad will ever happen to you again.

And if he, himself, lets tears trickle from the corners of his eyes as he murmurs apologies into your skin for not protecting you from whatever happened while he was gone… well, that's no one's business but his own, he supposes.

[watatsumiis]

(A soft, fluffy continuation to this post about Xiao's reading and writing skills (or lack thereof)

Teaching Xiao how to read and write would be a tedious and difficult endeavour for everybody involved. He may not catch on to what you're doing at first, but once he does he'll do everything in his power to try and avoid it. He's super embarrassed at how far behind he is, and he doesn't want to be perceived as weak in any way, shape or form, especially not by you, someone he's sworn to protect.

It may seem like he's pushing you away at first, and eventually an intervention needs to be staged - whether you bring in Zhongli and some of the other adepti to help explain it all, or confront Xiao on your own, he'll respond better once you've been open and direct with him about what you're doing and why.

Though he is genuinely trying his best, Xiao simply isn't accustomed to sitting still and trying to learn. He's hard-wired for vigilance and combat, so it's nigh on impossible to get him to stay in his seat. He's up and about, wandering the area and trying to keep an eye out for any possible danger, no matter how much you assure him that there's none to be found. You can only get him to sit down for five or ten minutes at a time before he needs a break, or else he starts to get destructive.

Once he's settled a bit and started to write, it comes out stiff and awkward - he always holds his brush like a weapon, no matter how much you try to teach him otherwise. You can say it as often as you like, but Xiao simply cannot pull himself out of combat mode. To him, this is a battle like any other, he's just conquering worksheets instead of demons.

He always makes an utter mess of the inks and chews on the writing tools when you take your eyes off of him - he likes the texture of the wood splintering between his teeth.

His embarrassment and shyness also mean that he finds it really difficult to speak up when he's having trouble with something, no matter how much you reassure him that it's okay to ask for help. He also does well when you're working alongside him, even if it's on something else.

Teaching Xiao these skills is an arduous task, but he retains the information well, even after long gaps between lessons. You may find that occasionally rewarding him with little treats may also boost his productivity somewhat. Not necessarily food, but small trinkets, head scritches and hair brushing tend to be great bribes to coax Xiao into working towards a goal.

He'd never tell you, but one of the main reasons he said yes to your teaching proposition is because he wants to be able to read and enjoy your favourite books alongside you. He even ends up spending some extra time around others so that he can ask them for the definition of words he's not sure about as he slowly but surely progresses through the book during quiet restful periods of time.

One day, you'll find that he's speaking in an awkward, stilted sort of way, perhaps saying things that don't exactly fit into the context of the situation. How quickly you realise depends on what your memory for quotes is like, but you come to the conclusion in the end anyways - he's quoting your favourite books to you, trying to tell you that he read them without outright saying it.

He's secretly really proud of himself for being able to make it through an entire book. Though he may not fully understand certain parts of it, and the deeper meanings still elude him, he's just delighted that he was finally able to share something so special and meaningful with you.

You may even start to receive mysterious, unsigned letters on important dates and holidays - rolled up in pretty, loose ribbons and covered in blocky, awkward handwriting. Unsigned, but filled with love nonetheless.

Please don't repost, steal, copy or otherwise plagiarise my writing! I do not consent for my works to be translated and posted elsewhere, or copy - pasted into bot or AI technology

[d1xonss]

Desert Rose

Chapter 17 ~ Guitar Lessons and Confessions

✧ Pairing : Daryl Dixon x Rose

✧ Era : Season 2

✧ Word Count : 4.6k

In this chapter ~ When Rose plans and gathers her things for a search for Sophia, what she doesn't expect was a thick tension between her and Daryl as he only asked for a simple favor. However, it seemed to be shattered just as quickly as it was built up. Though she spent the rest of her day looking for the girl and even offering some guitar lessons to Beth, Glenn finds he has something to admit. Something that had been eating him up inside.

I was rudely awoken the next morning with my throat scratchy a throbbing kind of pain coming from my side. Groaning quietly to myself, I sat up slowly with my hand splayed over the bandages, making a mental note to grab some more painkillers from Hershel at some point. Though it was safe to say I surprised even myself with how fast I was recovering, the stubbornness I held pushing through whatever pain I had left. But I think yesterday's incident definitely put a minor setback on the whole healing process.

Soon I found myself changing into a fresh set of clothes, grabbing my weapons, and heading out of the tent into the fresh air. And it didn't take long before I put myself to work, helping Carol out with hanging some laundry up on the clothing line to dry. However, I was a bit hesitant at first. I felt as if I no longer knew how to talk to her after Sophia got lost, not knowing what to say to help ease her worries. But I also didn't want her to think I was shutting her out, which is why I pushed myself to agree.

"So, how are you doing?" she asked after a few moments of silence, clipping up another shirt with a clothespin.

My head dipped in a nod, "I'm okay...how're you doing?" I spoke, my voice a bit hesitant.

She shrugged, "As good as I can be."

Her words caused me to look over at her in an instant, "Hey...we're going to find her. I'm planning on heading out today and I know Rick and Shane are too. Plus, Daryl found her doll just yesterday. I have hope that she's somewhere safe."

She mustered a small smile and a nod of appreciation, "Thank you, for just... everything. I know how hard you're trying, especially with your injury. Are you sure you're okay to go out?" 

"I'll be fine." I assured.

She nodded again before the quiet consumed us once more, our hearts feeling a bit lighter. I only hoped that today would go by smoothly and no one else would get hurt when attempting to go out into the unknown. It's like everyone and their mother was getting shot at the same time.

"You know, he asked for you this morning." she stated out of the blue.

My eyes glanced back over to her in slight confusion, not knowing exactly who "he" was. But the moment I saw the small smirk creep up to her face, I put two and two together.

"Oh?" was all I managed to ask.

She laughed quietly and nodded her head, "I think you're good for him. I mean, you bring out this whole new side to him."

It was then my turn to laugh at that, "I don't think so." I brushed off with a shake of my head. "He seems like the same hot-headed loner guy to me."

"Well, I think so," she countered back, "You didn't see how he was when he found out you got hurt. I mean, he was ready to race down here in a heartbeat just to see if you were alright. And then he stayed clung to your side, talking to you for hours before any of us even knew you were awake. And then the very next day, he gives you that new sketchbook you've been wanting-"

"Okay, does everybody know about that?" I interrupted in slight annoyance.

"Word travels fast," she winked, shaking out another sheet in attempt to get rid of the wrinkles. "But I'm just saying...do you think he would've done all that for just anyone here?"

Standing there for a moment, I genuinely thought, would he? The two of us had subtly gravitated toward each other ever since we met. And I was willing to admit that I had some feelings for Daryl, I couldn't deny that to myself. But I guess I always just pushed those thoughts and emotions aside, because I assumed he would never reciprocate that kind of bond with anyone let alone me. Also, this wasn't necessarily the best time to be thinking about a relationship when there are much bigger problems going on around us every day.

However, she clearly took my silence as a no, "I think he might just be peeling down those walls. Letting you see the...softer side of him."

I scoffed, "Alright. So, what exactly are you getting at here?" 

She smiled a real smile as she nudged her shoulder with mine, "He likes you."

"Well, we're friends, I sure hope he likes me a little bit." I joked.

She shook her head, "No Rose, he has a little crush on you."

I knew what she meant the first time, but I guess I just didn't want to hear it. I mean I did want to hear it, but I wanted it to be true, and I needed to hear it from the man himself in order to believe that. Physically see the words coming out of his mouth for me to truly know that it was real, and not all in my head.

I shook my head at her, "Whatever you say." I muttered to the woman, wanting to drop the topic completely.

We managed to get through the basket of clothes quite quickly as opposed to her completing it alone, hearing the sounds of birds chirping in the sky as they too started to wake for the day. I felt strangely relaxed doing such a mundane task, but I figured something like that was good for the both of us. And right as we began wrapping it up, I managed to spot Rick and Shane emerging from camp to get ready for the search of the day. 

I parted ways with Carol with a small wave over my shoulder, heading over toward the two of them to make it aware that I would be ready to leave soon. I just needed to grab one of my knives that I had accidentally left behind in my backpack, wanting to grab it so I had as many weapons as I could get whilst I was out there on my own.

Though just before I could make it back toward the tent, Glenn suddenly approached me like a man on a mission. He quickly stopped me in my tracks with a small basket in his hands, blocking my path as he apparently took his delivery job very seriously.

His tone was a bit rushed as he asked, "Do you want a peach?" 

My eyes widened as his assertiveness before muttering, "Sure?"

His gaze then looked around the area, almost anxiously as I leaned down a bit to pick a couple that looked fine enough. I noticed his strange behavior the moment he was in my line of vision, glancing up at him with one of my eyebrows raised. Something about his demeanor seemed panicked, before he just flashed me a reassuring smile that wasn't very convincing.

"You okay?" I asked him slowly.

"Okay? Yeah, yeah, I'm okay. Why wouldn't I be okay? I'm just uh...passing out these peaches and then I'll probably go talk to Maggie for a little bit- unless you want to hangout? We could hangout if you wanted, maybe help out around here, find something to do." he rambled.

I almost physically took a step back in shock that he just word vomited on me and looked slightly behind his head to see Rick and Shane both trying not to laugh as they caught the end of the conversation.

"Glenn, breathe," I told him, watching him do as I advised with a drop of his shoulders, "I'm joining in for the search today, but we'll talk later...okay?"

He nodded his head frantically, "Okay, yeah...good." he muttered before turning around and taking off in the other direction before I could even bat an eye.

I glanced back at the other two men and just mouthed "Wow." hearing their laughs follow soon after that at what they just witnessed. I shook my head in amusement before heading toward the entrance of the tent, unzipping it somewhat ungracefully with the peaches balanced in my hands. My gaze then immediately landed on a figure laying down inside and I couldn't help but jump in surprise.

Though upon taking a second to actually glance at the intruder's face, Daryl only looked up at me confused from his comfortable position, causing me to let out a breath.

"Jesus, you scared the shit out of me." I said as I made my way in.

His brows furrowed, "Ya do remember this is my tent, right?" he asked sarcastically.

I rolled my eyes a little, "Yes smartass, I remember. But you're supposed to be resting in the house."

"Yeah, well I warned ya that probably wouldn't last long."

I shrugged it off before glancing down at the fruit in my grasp before holding one up for him to see, "You want a peach?"

He smiled a little and nodded, taking it from my grasp. I then turned my attention back to trying to find my knife in my bag, digging through the small pockets to feel around for it. I felt Daryl's eyes on me as I looked, though I pretended not to notice as my focus was solely right in front of me. My fingers then felt the small blade and I pulled it out successfully before turning back to face him, his eyes ducking away from me as if he wasn't staring.

"I'm going to head out today and look for Sophia. Stay here and rest for me, will you?" I asked.

He nodded reluctantly right as I turned around to leave, though my departure caused him to speak up once more before I made it too far. "Hey uh... will ya do me a favor?" he asked hesitantly.

"Sure?" I responded.

He tossed the fruit aside before pulling out some fresh bandages for his head, "Will ya help me change these?" he asked quietly, his tone almost bordering shy.

I smirked a little to myself before nodding my head. Sitting myself down at the end of his sleeping bag, he sat up with his legs crossed, leaning his face closer. I tried to ignore the slight shake in my hands and removed the old bandages delicately, not wanting to rip anymore stitches he had. He began to stare at me as I worked carefully, his eyes scanning all over my face as I desperately tried to focus on anything else but how close he was to me.

Out of my peripheral vision I saw nearly everything, as if trying to memorize every feature I had whilst I was close enough. But I didn't let myself linger on it, focusing on just changing the bandage like he asked. Discarding the old ones, I started to wrap the new white material around his head a few times, making sure it was tight enough before I was finished.

Finally getting the nerve to look him in the eye, I realized how close our faces actually were, our noses almost touching, and I could've sworn I could feel his breathing feather across my cheeks. I smiled a little before backing up, though I never took my eyes off of him.

"So, how's it look nurse? Am I gonna live?" he smirked.

I scoffed at him but that only made his smirk grow, "Yeah, I think you'll live, it won't damage your brain. Or...well, in your case," I trailed off, leaning closer to him and placing my hand on the other side of his head as I looked with furrowed brows, "What's left of one." I finished with a smart-ass smile of my own.

"Ey!" he said defensively, trying to fight the laugh that bubbled in his throat while trying to smack my hand off his head. My other hand came flying up to the other side of his face just as he attempted to push me away, both of us laughing tiredly at the joked that wasn't even that funny. Though he surprised me a little when he quickly grabbed both of my wrists to move my hands away, somehow bringing our faces closer than last time.

The smiles we once had on our faces, slowly faded once we both realized the distance between us was only smaller. He was still holding onto my wrists, swearing I could feel him rubbing his thumbs across my skin softly, but it was hard to tell when all I could think about was how our lips merely centimeters away.

"Rose?" a sudden voice called out from outside.

We both jumped away from each other rather quickly upon hearing the interruption, not daring to look each other in the eye. Not only embarrassed to be caught, but embarrassed at what could've happened if Rick's voice hadn't rendered in our minds. What could've happened that we wouldn't be able to take back.

My eyes shut tightly with a heavy sigh before I stood up to leave, briefly glancing at him one last time, "I gotta go." I muttered before leaving, not giving him a chance to respond.

I exited the tent to see Rick standing a few feet away, hands on his hips expectantly as he waited for me, "Sorry, I'm ready. Where do you want me to look?"

He nodded once behind him, "Here, let me show you on the map." he replied, taking me over towards the hood of a truck and looked at the piece of paper that had all kinds of markings on it.

He pointed to the spot that he and Shane planned to be searching together in case I needed them, before directing my attention to the area they had set up for me. I nodded my head and wished them luck before I was off heading in the other direction. Trying to find a distraction.

I was out in the woods for hours, having no luck whatsoever when it came to any trace of Sophia. Not even a sliver of grace. To think that Rick only left her for a few minutes and just like that she was gone, like she disappeared into thin air. I pushed myself more and more to try and find any kind of tracks, shoelaces, or even a piece of torn fabric that could've been ripped from her clothes. But there was nothing. And clearly I didn't know when to give up, feeling a sort of guilt that just about any of us were coping with these days. Blaming ourselves when really there was no one to blame.

But I had to come to a stopping point eventually, especially since I had forgotten to take any kind of pain medication for the day. The thought completely slipping my mind after the incident with Daryl. Just wanting to get the hell out of there as fast as I could before I could linger on the moment further. I felt utterly defeated as I slowly returned to the farm, but I didn't want to allow myself to lose hope. So, I didn't. In fact, I held onto it for as long as I was able.

My boots crunched under the fallen leaves in the grass as I approached the acreage, seeing the barn in the distance reminding me of some kind of mystery. This whole place in fact was almost nostalgic to me in a way, not because it was familiar like I had been here before. But it reminded me of the music I used to drown myself in, the feel of the old southern nature was oddly comforting to me. Like it was straight out of some contemporary folk song. I didn't know how long we'd stay here, but an unrealistic part of me hoped for forever with this amount of peace.

I walked through the threshold of the house, the screen door slamming softly behind me as I made my way upstairs to find a bathroom. Looking through the few cabinets before me, I finally found some painkillers that would ease the throbbing in my side that was only growing more prominent. Popping a few of them in my mouth, I left the bathroom only to get a view of Beth sitting quietly in her room with her door opened just a crack, and an idea formed in my head. Speaking of music.

"Hey, hon." I spoke to get her attention, "Did you by any chance what to learn a few chords on the guitar?" I asked knowingly as I peeked my head through the doorway.

Her eyes practically lit up, "Yeah! Let me go get it." she said, before rushing back downstairs.

I laughed softly at her enthusiasm before slowly entering her room, sitting down on the edge of the bed as I waited for her return. I found my gaze traveling around the space as I took in her choice of decoration, thinking it matched her personality pretty well. Small pictures in frames were hung up on the walls, painted a pretty pink color. Leaving the rest of her furniture a bright white, pulling everything together in the simplest way.

She came back in moments later with a huge smile on her face and the guitar in hand, sitting down next to me while I thought to myself on what to teach her first.

"Well, I guess the first thing you need to know is how to hold it. So, move it so your left hand is on the strings and your right will hold the pick." I explained.

She adjusted the instrument in her hold and then looked at me when she was ready for the next step. "Okay, now onto the chords." 

I proceeded to show her five different ones she could adjust to pretty easily since she was just starting out. After she got comfortable enough with those, I showed her the few songs she could play with what she learned, and she was getting along really well the more she practiced.

Though we both seemed to burst into laughs when she would curse the second she messed up, but picking back up where she left off with a shake of her head. That, and we found ourselves getting somewhat distracted during random times, talking casually as she took a few breaks here and there. But in the end, she learned how to play 2 songs pretty well after a few hours, leaving her feeling very proud of herself of what she had accomplished.

"Hey, why don't I play one of the songs you taught me, and you sing the lyrics." she suggested suddenly, strumming a few chords absentmindedly.

I immediately shook my head, "Um...I don't think so. How about I play, and you sing." 

"Oh, come on," she tried again, "I just know you're a good singer, I can feel it." watching her raise her eyebrows expectantly.

I gave her a look, "You can feel it, huh?" I asked sarcastically, "I don't know hon, I haven't really sang in a while."

"Well, it's just me." she shrugged, her eyes growing bigger and hopeful as clearly all she wanted was to keep me here just a little while longer. The thought alone was enough to warm my heart.

I debated in my head for a few more seconds before sighing in defeat, "Fine."

Her smile brightened, adjusting the guitar in her grasp, "Which one do you want me to play?" she asked excitedly.

"Whichever one you want. I like both." I nodded.

She thought for only a moment longer before slowly playing the intro to Brown Eyed Girl by Van Morrison. I smiled a little at the familiar tune, though mentally preparing myself for something I hadn't felt in a while. Nausea quickly overtook me, the nerves building to the point of no return even though it was just Beth hearing me. But nonetheless I took a deep breath and started once the intro faded to a close.

Singing again felt surreal and only brought back memories I tried hard to repress. All I could think as I continued through the lyrics was about how I used to sing constantly when it wasn't looking too good in my household. With my mother relentlessly looming over me, I found that singing and music was one of my only escapes. It distracted my younger sister and I at times when I would sing to pull our attention away from our parents fighting relentlessly in the background. It helped, even if it was just for a moment. But it was more of something that helped me cope through terrible times, not something that I particularly enjoyed.

However, the song thankfully came to a close quicker than I anticipated, probably because I found myself disassociating through the majority of the tune. But it made it all worth it to see Beth smile, a twinkle forming in her eye to hear us come together and create something amazing. I smiled a bit through the ache in my chest as I tried to forget the feeling I had moments ago, the reminder of the past I didn't need.

Though if that wasn't bad enough, the sound of soft clapping brough both of our attention toward the doorway, seeing Hershel standing there with a proud-like smile on his face.

"You two sound beautiful together." he complimented.

I nodded slowly, "Thank you..."

Beth squealed to her dad in excitement, "Rose taught me how to play some things on the guitar, and I got her to sing! Doesn't she sound amazing?" 

"Yes, she does." the older man agreed, "Rose, you're very talented." 

"Okay, okay enough, my head's getting way too big," I brushed off with a laugh, "But thank you."

He nodded his head before slowly entering the room, listening to Beth beginning to go on and on to tell him the things we had been working on for the past few hours. Some of her comments only fueling my ego further.

Clearing my throat, I stood up after a moment to see myself out. Only now noticing how late it grew. "Well, I think I'm going to turn in for the night- it was a long day. But I'll see you guys tomorrow."

Beth nodded, "Thanks again for teaching me. Do you think I can learn some more soon?" 

I smiled at her excitement, the joy she found in such a simple thing. "Sure, just come find me when you get too good at those few songs, alright?" I winked.

She smiled and nodded her head before turning back to her dad to tell him more, watching as he got lost in her world with a proud smile plastered on his face. My limbs ached with each step I took walking back outside into the night, hearing the crickets chirping loudly from the tall grass as I planned to just make a beeline for our small camp. But the moment I locked eyes with Glenn from where he stood near the RV, he didn't hesitate to beeline it over to me. Goddamnit.

He was speed walking toward me like an absolute lunatic, it almost made me laugh. But instead my gaze panned just past his growing figure, seeing Dale watching to where he suddenly took off toward me. And to my surprise, he gave me a small nod, his lip quirking up a bit as he saw I had made it back safe after my search today. I knew just after that small exchange that we were okay, and we could move on from what happened. It was nice to know we were both mature enough for that.

"Oh my God, where have you been? I've been looking all over for you, come on." Glenn said quickly before grabbing me by my arm and dragging me away.

A sound of surprise left me as he strung me along like a damn ragdoll, "Well- Jesus, clearly you didn't look very hard because I was literally in the house the whole time." I clapped back as we walked.

He didn't say anything to my smartass comment, he didn't say anything at all really until he knew we were far enough away from everyone so no one could hear our conversation. He then dropped my arm and started pacing back and forth, thinking loudly to himself as if he didn't even know where to start. My head followed him back and forth, back and forth as he visibly had an inner debate with himself, my arms crossing over my chest impatiently waiting.

He was starting to make me dizzy and my patience was already thin with how tired I grew, "For the love of God, just spit it out Glenn."

His body froze as he looked back at me, and without missing a beat he said, "Lori's pregnant and the barn is full of walkers."

My eyes slowly started to widen the longer I took the information in, processing it as best as I could though it was all insane. Really, it was just a few words, but they were both pretty big problems. Lori being pregnant in a world like this was no good for her or anyone else. We had Hershel, somewhat of a doctor here to make sure everything was running smoothly. But that didn't mean we could protect this baby from everything, even with the safety of being on the farm. And the walkers in the barn? Oh, I had so many questions, but the biggest one was, why the fuck?

Glenn watched me carefully process all this information, eyeing me nervously, "Take your time, it's a lot to take in." he muttered.

"Yeah, no shit." I snapped, before the habit was suddenly passed onto me, pacing back and forth in a slight panic.

He sighed from behind me, "Well, no need to get pissy at me."

"How long have you known?" I suddenly asked, whipping around to face him.

He stood there for a second, no longer meeting my eyes, "Too long..."

I sighed angrily, tangling my fingers through my hair, "Why didn't you tell me when you first found out? This is a huge deal Glenn, my God." 

"I'm sorry Ro. I'm so sorry...Maggie made me swear not to tell anyone, and Lori didn't exactly want her secret getting spilt either. And if I'm being honest, I didn't want two women mad at me at the same time."

"Yeah, well congratulations. Though you seemed to make one pretty damn mad." I quickly said as I gestured to myself.

He sighed and reached out to get me to stop anxiously bouncing on the balls of my feet, "I know, I know, but I'm telling you now. I'm sorry."

I stood there for a moment looking at him, my face softening after hearing his words. "No, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to snap at you, it's just...well, like you said it's a lot to take in."

He smiled slightly as he nodded, wasting no more time as he went on to tell me all the little details. Everything from who knew about what, what happened with Lori, and his plan to tell the group about the walkers first thing tomorrow morning. It was in fact a lot to process, but I was proud of him for deciding to spill it about the hidden walkers, even if Maggie would get upset. Deep down knowing that it was the right thing to do.

A weight seemed to be lifted from him after he got everything off his chest, the two of us now sitting down on the grass in complete and utter silence. I didn't know how long we sat like that, our minds running on overdrive, but it had to have been ages considering the farmhouse's lights turned off for the night ages ago.

"Maggie's gonna hate me."

I shook my head, "No, she's not. She might get pissed, sure, but she's not going to hate you. But speaking of, how are you guys? I never did get that update." I commented, wiggling my eyebrows a bit.

He rolled his eyes and nudged my arm lightly, "I think she likes me...but after tomorrow I'm not so sure. Ask me again in a couple days."

I laughed lightly as I nodded, "It'll be okay. It's all going to work itself out."

His eyes glanced at me in silent appreciation, wrapping an arm around me as he pulled me in for a side hug. I rested my head on his shoulder with a content sigh as the silence took over once again, thinking about how tomorrow was going to suck ass.

~ Thanks for reading!

[hahaifolded]

The Siren, the Cook, and the Sister (0)

Sanji x PirateHunter!FemReader (Masterlist) Prologue: The Tavern in the Storm (Next Chapter)

A bellowing storm swallowed the island whole, forcing its residents to stay inside. Rain and harsh winds filled the quiet streets as all life came to a pause. Every business closed its doors, aware that no one would be outside as long as the storm raged on. However, one particular business stayed alive thanks to a certain crew getting caught in the rain.

Inside, a jolly tune danced in the air with laughs and giggles accompanying it. Various tables stood near the piano, far from their original placement. Those who pushed them, despite being told no, sat next to one another, enjoying the drinks, warm food, and shelter that the tavern provided. The tavern owner looked at the group with amusement as she realized that the rumors of the Strawhats’ knack to party were true. 

“MORE MEAT!” yelled Luffy. Piles of plates sat in front of the boy as his stomach touched the table’s edge. Chopper giggled while Usopp and Sanji groaned with disappointment at their captain’s insatiable appetite. 

“I’ll ask if they can re-open the kitchen… again,” assured Robin, standing up from her seat. However, before she could step away, the archeologist was signaled to stay put by Nami. As the rest of the crew enjoyed dinner, Nami looked over the ship’s finances and came to a familiar conclusion. 

The navigator took in a deep breath and announced, “Luffy…STOP EATING ALL OF THE CREW’S MONEY!” The boy’s eyes widened, scared for the incoming scolding. “At the rate you’re going, we’ll only be able to buy enough supplies to last the Sunny…” Nami paused to look over over her notes, “3 days!” 

“Dearest Nami is an angel. She’s looking out for me and the Sunny.” Hearts adorned Sanji's eyes. (Chopper quickly shot up to study the phenomenon.)

“More like a demon,” muttered Zoro in his raised cup. A foot immediately shot towards his face. The swordsman swiftly blocked it.

Before a fight could break out between the two, glass shattering rang through the air. Brook stopped playing as everyone looked at the bar. Shards of glass laid near a large man and a trembling tavern owner. 

“WHAT DO YOU MEAN THE KITCHEN IS CLOSED?” roared the man. Another glass was chucked to the floor. Anger clouded his dark eyes as water dripped from his brown beard and navy coat. “Do you know who I am?” hissed the man, “I am Guerra the War-Summoner, one of the most powerful pirates of the New World… do you realize the damage I can inflict on this island, on this little tavern of yours…” Guerra paused to get in the owner’s face, “to you?” Before the owner could react, she was lifted over the bar by the angry pirate. 

“Oi, that’s not very hard boil of you,” warned Franky. He rose from his seat, ready to defend the owner. He wasn’t the only Strawhat to rise; Sanji stood up, lighting a cigarette, Robin stared ahead, arms raised. Even Usopp lifted his slingshot. 

However, before anyone could move, the tavern doors snapped open. Rain smacked the floor as a gush of cold wind rushed inside the tavern. But to everyone’s surprise, nothing could be heard. Not even the doors hitting the wall, the rain, or wind. Silence and suspense filled the room. 

Disturbed by the silence, Guerra demanded for answers. Or at least tried as his voice was also silenced. Before more questions could be made, something shot through the door towards the large pirate. In the blink of an eye, a dark figure stood next to Guerra, the bar owner sat on the floor, and Guerra’s right arm laid in a red puddle. 

Word Count: 609

Masterlist - Next Chapter

Author's Note: AHHHH... can't believe this is available for people to read - this has been living on my laptop since January 2024. This is the first thing I ever wrote for this story. Low-key doesn't really fit in the story (well it does but perspective wise, it's off) but I worked so hard on this that I felt like I had to publish it. Therefore, it became the prologue (which honestly I'm not sure if it is one really but oh well).

[ladyofrosewood]

(amber gray, thirty eight, cis woman, she/her) you do not know me but rest assured i know you, LADY CORA ROSEWOOD. you are the SISTER IN LAW OF THE DOWAGER VISCOUNTESS. you maybe be known for your FRIENDLINESS but it is only a mask for the true nature of your STUBBORN ways. however, i am not here to spread slander on the queen’s jewels, though i suspect you are her DIOPTAS. the ton says your name reminds them of A FULL GLASS IN A STEADY HAND, AN OPEN DOOR, DRESSES IN THE MOST VIBRANT COLOURS AND TRAVEL BLOWN HAIR. how scandalous! you have been warned, dear reader, that i will prove if this is true and share every last detail. C!

Basics

Name: Cora Rosewood Title: Lady of Rosewood Age, DOB: 38, 27th of January December 1775 Sexuality: Pansexual Gender: Cis woman Faceclaim: Amber Gray

Family

Husband: Lord NAME of Rosewood Children: None Niblings: Viscount Hugo Rosewood, Lord Laurence Rosewood, Lady Sophie Rosewood (in-law), Lady Lydia Rosewood Other: Sister-in-law - The Dowager Viscountess Rosewood

Biography

triggers - infidelity, infertility, substance abuse

It is 1775 and Cora comes screaming into the world, in Louisiana USA already frustrated by those around her. A mother who didn't care for her, a father married to someone else. She was palmed off to him almost immediately. Her mother slipping back away to the high life she preferred.

It is 1781. At 6 years old Cora has learnt quickly to stay out of the way. Her 'stepmother's' cruel taunts of being part of a bastard brood and a collection of older and younger half siblings - both from her mother and not - mean the household is busy and attention is fought for.

It is 1790. The 15 year old young lady has become a notorious loud mouth but harmless. She's easily excitable and sneaks out into the town frequently. Easy to spot by the bright colours she wears and the wild curls that frame her face.

It is 1792. She is young at only 17 when her father and his wife decide to formally introduce her to society and the marriage market. She is unimpressed by their sudden act of attentive parenting. But she is still a dutiful wife and she goes to the events, she meets with suitors (and if she does her best to scare them off then it goes unmentioned). No marriages come.

It is 1793. Lady Cora becomes Lady Cora Rosewood. Her marriage announced suddenly and not without its own scandal. She had met Lord Rosewood and the pair had fallen head over heels. They knew there would be struggles and that her parents wouldn't approve given that he was from England. So they eloped, asking forgiveness rather than permission. She joins him when he travels back to England but angry letters soon follow. Her stepmother is enraged that Cora didn't do things through her and demands that, due to the amount of time and money they put into her upbringing, that she needs to pay them back. A compromise is slowly created that she is to return to America for 3 months of the year in summer. Cora is furious but she wants to avoid further issues and so agrees.

(infertility tw) It is 1805. Cora is turning 30 years old and she is well known in the ton. She throws grand parties, is known as the life of the party, and always has the best drink at hand. But there is one thing she doesn't have and that isa child. It is a longing that Cora has never been able to fill. She grew up in a huge and loud house. Their home in London is too quiet and so she smothers it by having the parties. Behind the scenes she begins to unravel, drowning her sorrows.

(alcoholism tw) It is 1810. Her husband is concerned, he knows that Cora's dependency on the 'fruit of the wine' has gone too far. That the babies they never got to meet way heavy on her soul. He convinces her to not return to America and instead she spends 6 months in a santitorium to help.

It is 1815. No child but no more drinking. She's better, she copes with it. But she also still tries to hide her disappointment instead throwing herself into life as a hostess. Need a venue? Contact Cora. Need recommendation for a caterer? Contact Cora. Want something illicit smuggled into a party? Contact Cora.

tldr - she's American and forced to go back for summer, loves her husband beyond life itself but is heartbroken that she hasn't been able to give him a child. Aunt of the Rosewood family and loves spending time with them all.

Secrets

REDACTED

She is an illegitimate child of the American lord people know as her father. Her 'mama' is actually just the wife who took in all the brats.

She struggled in the past with alcoholism until her husband convinced her to get help.

[wufflesvetinari]

ok FINE, some things about my half-orc cleric tav whom i love so very much

Lash grew up with her trying-his-best dad in Baldur's Gate (mom stayed with her orc clan). she had no lucrative skills and no exceptional cunning--between this and the default perspective of her as barbaric, she internalized a bunch of stuff, joined up somewhere, Saw Some Action, got good at killing people. like, really good. "her services were instrumental in leveling several towns including civilians and she got a commendation for it" good.

this did not feel good, and mid-personal-crisis about murdering strangers on someone else's orders, she deserts and saves one goddamn monk and ilmater calls her to his service. she regards this as a baffling mistake on his part.

illmater is a god of compassion, gentleness, self-sacrifice. his clerics are basically non-combatants, known to only use violence as last resort. goblins etc. see a cleric of illmater on the battlefield and avoid hurting them, because they know they are willing to heal both sides if they can.

lash is not like this. lash starts as a blunt instrument who is only good at violence. but she wants to do good in the world, finally, and if ilmater wants to throw away his famed gentleness to compromise on someone like her, who is she to argue?

she spends her first years training in a temple, but she doesn't have the head for scripture. neither does she have the conviction or creativity for complete non-violence, instead developing a world-weary acceptance of it as a tool to reduce suffering.

she's sent on dangerous pilgrimages repeatedly instead of being assigned to minister to ilmater’s followers, confirming to herself that her calling is a compromise on ilmater’s part: he needs a blunt instrument so that others can carry on the work of being gentle.

what she doesn't realize in this time period is that she is slowly becoming gentle. moreover, becoming wise. clergy and laypersons approach her for advice on a world they are sheltered from. she has a way of speaking that cuts to the heart of things, and she's a comfort in quiet moments. she is rarely misled by self-serving justifications and moralizing. her kind of wisdom is drawn from her knowledge of the world and its flaws instead of from scripture.

she still kills. she's still blunt, and quietly sarcastic, and not entirely at ease with her god. but gods, she wants to be kind.

i think that astarion seriously considered seducing someone else for his plan in act 1 (wyll or something lmao) because, based on a "clerics with wooden stakes" comment he makes at camp at some point, he thought letting a good-aligned cleric guess his nature would be extremely dangerous for him. he especially has a bunch of anger towards the god of compassion, because he "prayed to every god" and nobody saved him.

but it's hard for him to see lash as a cleric? i mean, yes, she has a way of staring at you that makes you squirm and feel Too Known, and she's stupidly self-sacrificing, and she's hilariously incapable of trickery.

but she's funny, in her own reserved way. she's a world-weary soldier, good with a story, disgustingly rustic, a good cook, with the habit of cussing out her own god without getting in trouble for it somehow. and she mostly says the right type of kind thing, not the type of kind thing that make him want to curl up somewhere and grow spikes. and...maybe it's not terrible, feeling like someone Gets your deal instinctively? someone quiet but self-assured, who doesn't push for more?

(and, like, she's hot? she's strong and a little distant. devious plan aside, he finds that hot)

i am only in act one. i think, in her "worst" (but also kind of sexiest) moments, she thinks of herself as a mechanism, and even frames it as such out loud: if someone has committed unspeakable cruelty, she's here to end them for it. action and reaction. no hesitation, no mercy, because her being brutal allows everyone else to be kind. a necessary evil.

but she's in the midst of a years-long process of learning to see herself in a...kinder light. and as their relationship develops i think astarion will prod her a lot about how she makes more complicated ("and fun!") choices than that all the time, you idiot. why else would she be traveling with such a bunch of assholes?? why else would she be good to him?

[datastate]

do you have any hcs about mishima and nao?

SOOO MANY! BUT for now, i'll stick with a small one on their beginning friendship :D

nao used to be very quiet in a lot of her classes; a nice person, certainly, and easy to talk to! but rather closed off unless you tried to pry, where even that would just be rude and she'd say as much.

but of course, there were small things here and there she'd share with her friends should you happen to overhear. usually, it'd be anime/manga that she'd recommend to others (usually horror with interesting concepts, though she wasn't immune to well-written 'slice of life's) - which resulted in hana (her best friend) actually buying her a keychain for her bag!! nao doesn't usually wear/buy merch, as she fears she'll lose/damage them, but... since her friend got it, she felt she'd be disappointed if she didn't show it off.

&...! this is the spark for professor mishima to actually prompt her on her interests; one of the few things she'd end up rambling on about... and he has enough context to keep her going!

it was nice getting to see her actually relax a bit, if a bit surprising to realize that she liked horror so much... and of course, it was when she inevitably brought it back to art (she was inspired to become an artist from such a silly thing, though mishima assures he understands) that she started getting nervous again; as much as she loves it, she can't draw it well. it doesn't feel like it could fit her style much at all - she intimidates herself out of drawing it.

however! mishima does not lose hope so easily. he encourages her to keep trying & experimenting with her art. after all, art is something she should have for herself if nothing else...

although mishima doesn't typically work with horror, he does have plenty of pointers on how to incorporate characters into a backdrop (it provides variation + reflects his current views too... people being a part of something larger, connected through means they don't quite realize); he had a similar start to nao in that he often relied heavily on portraits/character focus, but for that reason can help lead her along into slowly branching out.

a lot of what nao likes is the eerie - something that you have to really look at to realize how off it is. working on backgrounds such as these definitely helps with integrating characters in a more natural manner! and helps improve her work altogether, too...!! she's having more fun than she used to with her personal projects, where she previously felt stagnant but couldn't pinpoint why (and felt guilty to ask hana, as the response would always be a well-meaning "but i like your art! i don't think that at all" rather than critique she wished for), so it was...!! really nice for her to have <3

and... getting to show a trusted adult that, too, made her very happy. her parents didn't often see art as something that'd work out... but she finally felt pride in her work, and had something else to look forward to when it came to classes, rather than simply skirting by day-to-day. it took about a year and a half of school to get here, but... it makes it feel worth it.

it's also around this late time of the year, too, that mishima casually mentions he's trans.

one of the other students is complaining about the cold, and he agrees a bit too personally that skirts are awful in this weather before offering his usual advice... and it's this moment that stays in nao's mind. combined with previous comments here and there about the dysmorphia in horror...

despite this near-confirmation... nao waits until the very end of the year before she admits to the professor that she's trans. she hasn't really socially transitioned yet, only a few friends know, and she's still a bit afraid she might've misunderstood that he's trans... but it all turns out well by the end of it <3

however, since she's about to enter her last year with people who mostly knew her as a boy, it's only when she graduates that mishima offers to help put word in to adjust her uniform; which she greatly appreciates... also, throughout her last year, they get to actually discuss how it is to be mixed & that is when he offers to learn arabic with her. she was never taught it, and is too embarrassed to ask her parents, so he's taken it upon himself to help her with that too... here and there, still as her mentor and friend even after their time in school :'D

[aureatescars]

Despite a twinge of embarrassment at the comment and the implications Leon speaks into the space between them, Sasha isn't willing to let him get away with deflecting anything this time either. If Leon has the right to call him out, Sasha will do the same in turn. But it's not spite that motivates him in this moment —even though he can't help but bristle slightly at the way Leon is still trying to push his buttons.

He breathes out in a sigh. The offer is beyond all else born from him having to come to care about Leon a great deal. He would be lying if he said it wasn't so.

That doesn't mean Leon makes it easy to care about him. Not when he makes it seem like he is doing Sasha a favor by staying here rather than simply taking comfort in something simple as another's company when they both know that comfort has come in short supply lately for the both of them.

Sasha watches Leon ease himself down onto the mattress and has to bite back a smile when he sees Leon's tension ease somewhat, features softening, although there is still something rigid to his posture when he comes to lay on his back. Something stubborn to his demeanor, as if he doesn't quite want to admit defeat.

The mention of nightmares doesn't come as a surprise per se, but the pointed nonchalance with which Leon speaks of them does. As if he expects Sasha to throw him out now that he is made aware that Leon might rest fitfully, might wake Sasha in turn if he startled awake later on.

As if Sasha isn't used to nightmares of his own.

He is quiet for a while as Leon settles. Despite his earlier efforts the blanket is still mostly tucked close to his form, leaving Leon with no cover at all. A circumstance Sasha means to change now that they're sharing this space.

"I'm sure it will be fine." He tells him at last. He shifts with no small amount of effort and eventually manages to settle himself onto his side, exhaling slow and drawn out as the pain in his lower back flares up and then only slowly fades back to a more manageable level. Still, he grabs the edge of the blanket and reaches out with it to cover Leon properly with the blanket, too. It doesn't escape his notice just how warm Leon is when he shifts his arm to pay him back for the way he tucked him in before. Any touch to Leon's chest and shoulders is accidental and brief, but also oddly reassuring in a way Sasha didn't expect.

Someone living and breathing next to him, his warmth bleeding into the shared blankets and sheets... It feels nice. Despite the awkwardness that came with the sudden offer and Leon's reluctant acceptance of it. He isn't quite sure how to lable what he is feeling right now, but it is closer to contentment than it is to embarrassment, although he can't quite help the latter. But after yesterday saw him helpless and naked in the bathtub this really is nothing in comparison.

So, Sasha makes an effort to dispel the lingering awkwardness, aware that neither of them would find any rest at all if it persists. Sasha isn't able to really tuck Leon in in the same way as he did with the way he is feeling physically and his current limited range of movements, but he is able to make it clear that this is retaliation for Leon fussing over him but a moment ago by pulling the blanket up to Leon's chin, a slight curl to his lips when Leon gives him a look somewhere between surprise and exasperation.

Sasha gives a one-shouldered shrug, trying to hide just how amused he is by Leon's reaction, or how the opemness of that expression makes something flutter inside of him.

"I'm no stranger to nightmares." He assures him with a smile just this side of teasing. "As long as you don't hog the covers I won't have anything to complain about." Sasha's smirk mellows into a tired smile, a testament to his own state of being. "Just try and get some sleep." He says a little quieter now. He doesn't have the energy to really think about what he has offered, or why Leon took him up on it, and he is far from wanting to delve into what he is feeling about all of it, too. For now he is content to just see it as an attempt at feeling comfort, at settling in to relax, to feel safe even, when it's been too long since they really could.

Sasha has trouble keeping his eyes open now, the painkillers easing his symptoms but simultaneously making him lose consciousness fast. "Sleep well." He mutters, amber eyes now holding a faraway look as his lids grow heavier by the second. His vision blurrs before he closes his eyes, his hand coming to rest in the space between them, just shy of Leon's shoulder.

His heartbeat and breathing slow down, his body loses what tension it still held. The line between his brows disappears and his lips part slightly on the next low exhale of breath. He seems to unwind entirely, feeling warm and content and most of all ... safe.

"You look about as exhausted as I feel." He shoots back, and even manages a wry smile, making sure that Leon knows that Sasha is not trying to pick another fight. "So, yes." But the thing is, he can relate. He may have found sleep easily enough yesterday due to his body being pushed to it's limits throughout its entirety, but that doesn't mean he fares any better in absolute silence. His thoughts get away from him, if left alone for too long. The ghosts of bis past haunt him more easily that way. He wonders if it's the same for Leon, or if there are other things he struggles with when away from immediate distractions.

Whatever it is, remants of it Sasha can see on Leon's face. In his eyes. He isn't sure if Leon's poker face is getting worse with how tired he is or if he is actually getting better at reading him. Maybe it is a combination of both, and while the latter does feel like an accomplishment, the former he isn't willing to let slide.

"What if I do?" He asks, foregoing Leon's question entirely. What if I do worry? His gaze is unyielding as he meets Leon's eyes, his hand coming to rest atop the blanket. He tilts his head at Leon. "What, do you think you're the only one here who gets to call someone out on being self-destructive?" The corner of his mouth quirks higher when Leon in turn narrows his eyes at him.

Hypocrite. Sasha thinks, but there is an odd kind of feeling accompanying that thought. Something almost... fond.

Before Leon can reply, Sasha exhales in a low breath, his tone no longer as confrontational, or teasing. "Would having me close by help you rest easier?" It's an honest question and one holding no judgment at all. He can only speak from his own experience, but during the war it did calm him down even during the darkest and coldest of nights, when he was jumping at shadows, if someone else, someone safe, was near. He is assuming a lot of things, especially whether or not Leon even considers him a safe person to be around, but what else can he offer other than companionship.

"...If so, feel free to stay. If it doesn't help, forget that I asked." He isn't entirely certain why he is offering, but from where he is standing, there is a rather simple solution and the bed certainly is big enough for the two of them. He shifts under the blanket to adjust his position until he doesn't feel as smothered by it anymore. He is sure Leon meant well, or maybe Sasha really did scare him earlier, resulting in this... mother henning of sorts.

If anything, he could even consider this payback for all the times Leon called him out on being an idiot during his recovery at the hospital and now, too. "I didn't ask you out here to play my caretaker." Although he is grateful for every bit of help Leon is offering, even though Sasha has a hard time showing it. "You deserve just as much rest as I do."

[bunnieswithknives]

*kills you to death*

[vintage-marina]

It's you

summary: It's basically little stories about how the reader came up in the box and adjusting in the Glade.

Female reader!

request by: @acupnoodle

hii!! since you write for tmr, could i have a minho and reader fic where she remembers his name when she wakes up in the glade, and no one knows why? maybe she has a locket or sumn he gave her before as well?? one day she has a nightmare and only he can calm her down, and later they find out they used to be together before?? Happy ending please!! sorry if its a bit chaotic 😅 Thanks!!!

wordcount: 5464

TW: nightmares, a bit deppresed, swearing

I changed it a bit, so it would fit in the story! Its angsty but also fluffy

Eyes flewing open you let out a startled shout. You moved your head to scan your surroundings.

Where the hell am I?

"Hello!" you screamed at no one, you tried to tear up the netting. "Hello! "

You were moving up, and it was going fast, what was going on?

This thing where you're in wasn't going to stop, deep down you knew it too.

"Fuck!"

It was then that you knew it would be fruitless, you put your hands in your hair and paced in the little box. Breathing a few times to deep, breathing a few times to shallow while mumbling panicking things.

"Shit!" you kicked a box in frustration. Splinters flew from the inpact and your feet went in the box, while rice spilled out.

Wait, no wait a minute.

You were surrounded by wooden boxes and carefully you pulled your foot out.

A quiet laugh escaped your lips, maybe there is a logo on them. Crouching down you searched for an answer, "Who put me here?" Your finger danced on the wood and you looked. After a few seconds you found it, the bold black letters staring right in front of you.

W.I.C.K.E.D

That's really assuring.

But before you could mull it over the roof of the lift disappeared and you were met with the blasting sun.

You squeeshed your y/e/c eyes, noticing people around you.

"It's a girl.. " someone with a boyish voice said.

"No way!"

"Dipps on her!"

Two boys jumped in the box beside you, quickly you stepped backwards having the wall pressed against your back. You touched the woven chocker that clung on your neck in nervousness, it almost felt natural to do this.

"Stay back!" you hurled, switfly pickup up a lose plank.

"I said-"

The boys lifted their hands in surrender, "Hey we aren't going to hurt you. " The boy had a funny accent, it sounded familiar like you already heared it before.

Another boy with blond hair rolled his eyes and folded his arms, simply grabbing you by the arm and dragging you out of the box. Quickly you grapped the plank even tighter and whacked him a few times with it, the people around you started laughing.

"Shucking hell greenie, you have to do that?"

Despite the fact that you were scared, almost peed your pants in the Box you surprisingly survived the day. Newt, yes that's his name showed you around the Glade with the leader Alby. Supposedly that's what they call it the Glade, you stuck besides them the whole day. They were like water and fire, while Alby was harsh and strict Newt was more kind and no that doesn't mean laidback. You knew after a day they both valued order and following the rules.

It was still sunny, but you smelled the aroma of dinner. The three of you walked away from the animals and the scent of grass filled in your nose.

"So if I got it right, every month new supplies and a new person," they both nodded while continuing walking. "And you guys don't know who?"

"No, we don't." Alby said.

Lifting your brows, "Well I thought it's W.I.C.K.E.D. do you want to know why?"

"No," he said again. "We know that W.I.C.K.E.D is sending us here, but who are they behind the name? That's what whe want to know."

Suddenly feeling utter ridiculous, you looked at the ground. "Yeah, I guess so," the three of you fell in a silent for a bit.

"Do you already-"

"It is really asocial to put people in here without memory, which douchebags does that?"

"Yeah," mumbled the two of them.

"And don't go into those creepy looking, really tall walls where you hear sometimes whirring if you're not a Runner, am I right?"

"Yep."

"Do your part, no time for not doing anything. Never harm any Glader bla bla bla."

Hearing feet pattering on the ground you met with the black eyes of a boy, he looked confused why a girl was in the Maze but quickly he gave a smirk. He ran to the side of Newt and folded his arm around his shoulder and pressed Newt against him. He just came back from the Map Room where he had drawn the route he sprinted during the day and you couldn't help but notice that he was cute, very cute and sweaty.

"Thanks mate, I really appreaciate your sweaty pit." Newt grimached and pushed him away, that earned a scoff from the boy.

"It's the sweat of champions, I would appreciate it too if I were you." He gave a lopsided smile and talked a bit with Alby and Newt. The Homestead was coming closer and after a bit of chatting the boy tore his gaze from Newt and Alby and focused on you.

"You're.." he paused for a moment, not really knowing what to say. Lifting a brow you kept his gaze. "You're a girl," he stated.

"Good eyesight," he couldn't help but notice the sarcasm dripping of your tone.

"Thanks, I have a gift to spot pretty things," with only that the converstation ended. Leaving you spluttered with warm cheeks and him with an amused glint in his eyes. It was like he had the last word. Then his gaze shifted to your neck, a woven necklace from thin rope clung tightly around it. It was worn you could easily see the oldness behind it, it almost whispered the tale why you wore it. Somehow an unfamiliar feeling crept up in his belly, it was confusing. He only knew you for a few minutes, but that necklace felt familiar. He shook his head and pushed the thoughts away, it's shucking ridiculous.

When he tore his gaze off from you, something gnaged at you. Something that you couldn't place. Still, you kept looking at him trying to figure out what was bothering you.

Minho.

As quick as that name went off in your head, as quick went it away. Why did you know his name before he said anything?

"I'm Minho, by the way. Do you remember your name already newbie?"

Wow, you must be really good at guessing people their names, but something deep inside of you raised the alarmbells.

You wanted to answer, but no you still didn't know your name. What the hell, you know your curse words but not even your fucking name?

Panic crawled up from your toes to your throat, licking and burning like it's fire. Alby easily spotted your panic, giving a firm shove at Minho. "It's normal for newbies that they don't know their name, but don't worry it will come back." He said giving his rare smiles at you.

The chattering of the boys became louder and the four of you arrived just in time for dinner! You picked up a plate and scooped hot pulled pork with vegetables on it. The sight from it made you mouth water and you questioned who made this delicious meal. You turned around and your face fell into a slight frown.

The boys were eating disgusting, you grimaced.

The other three already sat down. Scanning the room you looked for a place to sit, insecurity bloomed in your body. Did someone even want you to join their table? Unsure what to do you dwelled on the fact that you felt horribly out of place. You were the only girl surrounded with boys, who wouldn't feel out of place? Shifting from leg to leg, you looked outside into the forest.

But Newt quickly pulled you out of your thoughts and waved you over and you gladly accepted it.

"Bloody Hell, for a moment we thought that you would eat standing. "

You gave a small 'smirk', hoping that they wouldn't notice your doubt.

"Ofcourse not," you casually said while sitting on the bench next to Minho. "I was just admiring the view."

"Yeah the view is absolutely beautiful," rolling his eyes Minho took a bite from his food.

-

You quickly became familiar with everyone and after a few weeks of trying out the jobs you found out that being a Med Jack and a part timer Garderner suited you the best. You spent most days learning new technics and you even requisted a book about plants from the Creators (that's what the other Gladers called W.I.C.K.E.D I guess.). The 'free' time when there weren't any injured Gladers, you found yourself with your hands in the ground planting and nursing your medical plants.

"You shank!" You pushed Clint away. "You almost made me dropped this!" For extra dramatic purposes you pushed the beeswax almost up to his nose while you heard Jeff laughing.

Your integration went pretty well, you easily picked up the strange curse words and after a few days you learned your name.

Y/N.

Everyone knew the first aid post, it was a large wooden shack that laid near the west wall of the Maze and everyone knew that you worked there. And so in the first few weeks of your career the stream of wounded Gladers kept coming.

"We never have seen so many injuries in such a short time," Jeff noticed. You only had a few seconds to put down your beeswax before he poked at your sides. "They just want to be treated by the oh so pretty Y/N!"

Grumbling some curse words at him you swatted his hands away while Clint made kissing noises.

"Stop it! Both of you!"

"But Y/N, you're so easy to make fun off!" Clint said.

Pushing his head away you walked to the sink to disinfect your hands while picking up two jars. One was empty and the other was filled with calendula oil, after disinfecting the empty one you simply ignored Clint and Jeffs tantics.

The three of left eachother alone after that and you thanked the Creators that you finally had the time to make the calendula ointment. Picking up the jars you brought them to the stove where you melted the beeswax, it was a calming experience after nursing a lot of boys. After two weeks you noticed that a lot of them did it on purpose and you sended most of them of to Jeff and Clint, "who have much more experience" you told to them with a sly smile.

The creaking of the door pulled you out of your thoughts and a bruised Minho stepped inside. Putting down the stuff you washed your hands again while barking: "Sit!" to him.

While you were surprised that he took your advice, Clint en Jeff shared a look.

The teenager was under the small cuts and blood trickled out of some gashes. The med-box was in no time in your hands and you crouched down, "Do you have any more injuries than just your face?"

"No."

You gave Jeff and Clint a look that said: "Am I the right person?"

They both nodded.

For some weird reason the past few days you couldn't look him in the eyes. Maybe he was to pretty or something and you were still hurt.

He couldn't meet your eyes either, well that was a first. He thought that if he looked you straight in the eye, you could see what he was thinking and yeah that would be really awkward for the both of you. And so he focused his gaze on your woven necklace, the weeks that you lived here he thought about it. The only thing that felt familiar for the first time while he arrived so many years ago in the Glade. He wanted to touch it, maybe then he could figure out why this thing was bothering him so much, but deep down he knew that would be fruitless.

He felt your hand resting on his shoulder to steady yourself and immediately the place went on fire. He coughed in embarrassment and you looked him in the eye for a second before breaking it, feeling a bit shy maybe, no hurt? He didn't know, but he didn't ask, too afraid that you retorted the question back. Last week he came to the realisation that you were pretty and that he wanted to be near you. And so in his logically mind he decided to avoid you.

What an idiot, isn't he?

The stinging sensation brought his mind back to the real world and he mumbled an: "Ow that hurt!"

You were dabbing an cottonpad with some anti-bacterial liquid on it and you weren't really careful with it.

"That's what you getting from ignoring me, stupid."

"I'm sorry but some people have to do actually important jobs", he flashed you a smile.

Narrowing your eyes, you sighed irritably: "Shut up."

"You wish."

But the two of you dropped the subject and didn't mention it anymore.

-

You were still bothered by it, and you didn't know what to think of it. Why did you know Minho's name before your own? It was weird, really, really weird and to be honest you thought about it daily. You got from W.I.C.K.E.D (no, the Creators) some dark blue dungarees that you put on when you were in the Gardens and instead of whispering some lovingly words to your plants, you were thinking about him.

With his stupid but cute face.

Wait no, with his stupid face.

If someone found out that you thought Minho was handsome than your life would be truly over.

You were still mad at him tho, he ignored you for a whole week! What was wrong with that guy?

Anyways back to the main topic, his name. While you thought about it, the sun was scorching on your back while sweat dripped on your back.

Fuck, it's hot.

No matter how long you thought about it, you couldn't think of an answer and so the logically answer was to annoy Newt with this information.

"So you knew his name the second you saw his face?" he said in disbelief. Holding his hoe even tighter.

You nodded.

"Bloody hell Y/N, how?"

"How am I supposed to know, shank?"

-

A new Greenie arrived, you were now two months in the Glade.

Stars were twinkling in the night sky and the heath of the bonfire licked at your body. Boys were laughing and chattering and some were even dancing from the high of Gally's stoken alcohol. You couldn't judge them, the beverage was really strong and nursing a glass in your hand you looked at Gally who invited the Greenie to fight.

Ah shit, you thought. It didn't really ended well with the two of you while you wrestled on your Bonfire, leaving you with a bloody nose and a bruised body. While he couldn't see out of his eye for the whole week, oh how you felt so proud to see him with a black eye.

Standing up you walked to the circle while everbody stood with anticipation who would win. Gally was stronger that's for sure, shoving the Greenie towards the outercircle but after a few minutes it was him who laid on the ground while the Greenie supported a small smirk.

Quickly nudging Minho and Newt you gave them a laugh, maybe Gally would finally lose. Then he swiped his leg and the new guy fell on the ground with his head falling hard on the dirt. He groaned for a moment but then a light bulb went off, mumbling something under his breath.

With a look full of disbelief he stood up, "Thomas." Turning around he said it again. "I remember my name, I'm Thomas!"

"Thomas!" Alby cheered and the rest of the boys including you whooped and hollored.

When everything quieted down, Minho and you sat on a wooden bench. It was quiet between the two of you, unable to control the nervousness in your stomach you watched the fire curling up.

"How do you even got that?" He suddenly asked.

"What?" You said back to him, now your gaze resting on his face. The fire gave his skin a nice hue.

"That," he leaned forward and touched the woven necklace that you always wore. His face was a few centimetres away from you and feeling his breath fanning up in your neck made your stomach doing flipflops.

The necklace was made of straw at least that's what Minho thought, by the looks of it the maker wasn't really good but whatever, it was cute.

"I dont know, I wore it since I came up in the box. Maybe it was really important to me before I came here," a whisper, you didn't dare to speak louder than a whisper in fear that he could hear your nervousness.

"It suits you," he whispered while leaning back. "Shank," he said with a grin.

And poof the romantic air was gone, crossing your arms you sarcastically said: "Gee thanks, thought that we had something goin' on."

-

Your back was pressed hard against the three, the prickly bark against your skin made you feel grounded. In these two months you loved the night scenery more than the day, the sun was just too bright and just a tad more orange than you remembered. It gave you a shiver along your back when you thought too much of it. With the recent events that happened in the Glade, your uneasiness grew and grew (even more than you had arrived.).

Your nails dug in the palm of your hands, while Minho raised a brow.

"Are you okay, slinthead?"

Could you say it to him? What your thoughts were about those recent events, about Thomas? You mindlessy tugged at your necklace.

Would Minho become mad?

The thought about him getting mad maked you sad, but you had too tell him hoping that he would ease your mind and so you spoke with hesitation.

"Something shifted when Thomas arrived here," the two of you had to whisper because the others were already asleep.

Opening his mouth Minho wanted to say something, something to defend Thomas.

"Are you getting on his back now too Y/N?" you could hear the irritation slipping out.

"No! Ofcourse not!"

He didn't look at you, tossing a small rock, "Yeah right."

Shaking your head your thoughts were running lapses, why would he think that?

Standing up the fallen leaves crushed underneath Minho's shoes, "I think I'm going to sleep, enjoy your night." With that he left you alone.

His steps were louder than he hoped, still angry at the situation that happened a few seconds ago. Why are you accusing Thomas for all these things? Whacking the mosquitoes away his mood became worse.

"Shucking things."

"Minho wait!"

He walked further, he could see the outlines of the Homestead. Just a few minutes walking and then he could finally sleep, finally!

"Minho!" your voice was louder and you tucked at his arm. He turned around and met your E/C eyes. "Let me explain," you begged to him.

He didn't said anything but he didn't walk away either and so you talked. "In these few days that he's here with the girl, he became my friend too!"

Oof that sounded a bit too defensive.

"Alright that came out wrong, I care about him and her but I'm talking about Thomas right now. Ever since he got here the dynamic of the group feels off, some like him and some find him suspicious like Gally." taking a breath you continued. "Just because I consider him a friend doesn't mean I can turn a blind eye to what happens here right now!" you kicked at a metal beetle that walked on the leaves and dirt.

He scowled at your accusation but held his mouth.

"First that girl Teresa, then Ben that was stung by those disgusting Grievers and-and," tears stung in your eyes and you took a deep breath. "And a few days ago you, Alby and Thomas were stuck in the Maze, I was.." A few tears fell on your cheeks, hugging yourself you looked at the ground. "I- uh I thouht you were going to die and I was so- I was so scared, Minho."

His gaze softend and he touched your shoulder in comfort. "Well I'm still here, am I?"

You wiped with the back of your hand your tears away, "and I didn't know what to do and I'm scared.." you couldn't even finish your sentence before you started sobbing.

He pulled you in for a hug and you grabbed firmly a piece of his shirt, "I'm sorry," you whispered again and again. Although he was still irritated at your accusation his heart broke after seeing you cry, he petted the back of your hair soothingly and he reassured you.

"It's okay."

He had seen you cry before, he calmed you before and he stood by while your other friends consoled you, you even consoled him a few times but he never saw you so upset like now.

"I'm not blaming Thomas you know," you mumbled in his shirt after a few minutes. "It's just I think somehow Thomas is a piece of something we don't know yet, something bigger than us, something more influential. I think he catalyzed something when he arrived in the Box. I'm sorry I shouldn't have attacked him like that."

"And I should've heard you out, are you good again?"

"Yeah," the two of you let eachother go and the both of you walked to the Homestead.

"Sorry that I cried on your shirt."

"It's alright shank, it's like a little souvenir."

He admired your smartness, in that moment.

-

The morning came too quick and the day went too slow, you didn't slept for one second that night and Clint and Jeff were doing their best to keep you awake. The three of you took shifts about stacking the supplies, caring for the still unconcious Teresa and Alby.

He was still panicky telling things about the Flare (what is that?) and he told you things about Thomas that made your stomach drop.

What did he mean that you worked with the enemy? It's not like you could ask him, he wouldn't even remember it and so you store the information away for a next time.

You didn't like how this was going at all.

Washing your hands in the sink you watched your appearance carefully, the bags under your eyes growing with the day. A sign that you slept badly, it's not like you didn't want to sleep but you were plagued with nightmared after what happened with him.

Him.

Minho.

You were terrified that day, already thinking the worst. For the rest of the day you couldn't even work only thinking about them. You cried for the first time yourself to sleep that night.

You shifted your gaze away, it was time for work.

You checked the vitals of Alby who stared ahead of him and changed the bandages on the fresh wounds. "You're wounds are healing fine, Alby. How is your neck feeling?"

"Sore," he grumbled.

"Shall I get you an ice pack?

"Yes that's fine."

When you got back he gratefully took it and oressed it lightly on his bruise. The two of you sat in silence for a moment, you shift wasn't over.

"You and Minho huh..-" he said slowly.

"Yeah what's with us?" You shot up out of your chair after almost felling asleep.

"You two were a cute couple."

What, what did he mean by that?

You and him were a couple?

That would be impossible you knew him for two months!

"What do you mean by that?"

"Like I just said!" He didn't gave any room to ask more questions.

He pointed at your necklace and said further: "He woved that necklace for you."

He didn't talk further, but a soft smile graced your feautures.

-

Everyone laid in their hamacs, the stars were twinkling in the night sky. Some were fast asleep were others were still chatting with eachother, you stared at the stars.

Looking at them gave you in a strange way hope, a new beginning, to be free. Because let's be honest everyone here including you is trapped. But you weren't awake to marvel at the sky, no you were confused by what Alby said.

Minho and you were according to him in a relationship.

That didn't make any sense.

But why did you felt so comfortable around him?

Why did he make you so nervous and so relaxed, like you were high on a kite? High on love, was that possible?

And could it be that you had a life before the Glade?

A life where you were with Minho, did you even had parents? Siblings? Maybe even a pet? Did Minho take you to the cinema? You knew what they were, but you couldn't remember if you ever watched a movie in there. Did you had friends, people who you cared for other than the ones in the Glade?

It made you sad that you couldn't remember one thing from your past.

Did your parents love you?

A deep gnaching hole appeared in your heart when you thought about your family. You didn't even know if you had any.

But what Alby said, if this was true than you knew Alby before you were sent in the Glade. Does that mean what Gally said about Thomas that it was true?

That he couldn't be trusted?

You didn't knew him long, but you could tell that he was trustworthy. Maybe he changed after he lost his memory, because you couldn't no you wouldn't believe that this was for pretend and he was still his 'old self'.

You softly smiled at yourself if it was really true that Minho and you were together, does that mean it can still happen?

You tried to stay awake but with those thoughts you fell in a deep sleep.

It was a sunny day and you could smell the freshky rained grass and the flowers from the Homestead. Today should be a nice day, a good day to take care of your plants. You didn't want to think about what happened yesterday, to the Runner Ben. That boy didn't deserve that fate, but he tried to kill Thomas and that can't be tolerated. You faintly smelled the blood on your flowers, it made you sick.

Hours and hours long you sat still as a mouse by your plants, you only watered them after each quarter. The thick red liquid splashed down on your plants giving them a freshly new colour. The artificial sun set down, that gave your sight a slight blur, it was time for dinner. With blood coating on your shoes you walked to the Homestead, leaving bloody imprints in the green grass.

No one was there, but when you looked at the West Door suddenly you understood. You were there in a second, everyone was huddled in a circle screaming supportive things. Time literally stood still, tears pooled in your eyes. The walls were closing and there he was Minho, holding an unconcious Alby. Looking to the ground a small puddle of your tears were beneath your feet while dried flowers floated in the waters mixed with the blood on your shoes. You could've swore you saw the same blood coated on the walls in the Maze. You looked at them again, the boys next to you were faceless.

They weren't going to make it, Minho looked exhausted with dirt smeared across his face and small cuts on his body but Alby looked even worse. Orange bumps appeared on his body, suddenly the walls were covered in them too and at the same time they were leaking. The ground was slippery and Minho almost fell (or did he trip because he was too exhausted?). Suddenly the orange bumps where gone and before the walls could close Thomas wormed himself to them and then nothing, you couldn't see them anymore.

Everyone was away, you sat alone by the wall. You didn't know for how long, eyes red and puffy you stared blanky forwards.

They were going to die.

You scrunched your brows and you couldn't help but sobbing again. With trembling hands you covered your whails in the hope that nobody would notice. Newt walked up to you with two warm plates, he himself didn't looked very well either. Two persons crying with eachother while trying to eat their food, that was friendship.

Tears flow in your hammock, the thought of them of Minho being gone made you feel hopeless. Your breathing was to quick and your nose was stuffed with snot. With trembling hand you gribbed at your hair in frustration. Why couldn't you, why couldn't you switch-

"Y/N,"

Someone called out your name, was that Minho's ghost to say goodbye?

"Y/N?" someone was shoving you hard.

"Y/N!"

With a hard gasp you woke up, sitting in a second upright. Startling the chubby boy, he took a step backwards.

"You were-were crying and I had to wake you up. Because you were waking everyone up,"he said with a cheeky grin. He promply got a shove from Newt.

Where's Minho?

Is he allright?

Eyes wide, breathing frantic, you looked around, Only these two were awake and if you weren't in such a state you would say something to Chuck.

"You alright Y/N? Nightmare?"

You nodded still not sure if your voice would be steady, but Minho. Is he still in the Maze? Your sleepy brain forgot that he was already back.

"Minho," you croaked out, your throat feeling like sandpaper.

"He is fine, I promise you." Newt spoke to you, he knew that Minho was important to you. But when he didn't get the answer he was hoping for he walked a way to retrieve him, fuck his sleep right?

Chuck sat next to you on your hammock, mumbling stories in the hope that you would feel okay. You couldn't feel okay, only if you knew if Minho was safe.

"Minho," Newt shaked his shoulder. "Wake up, sleepyhead."

Slowly blinking for a few seconds, he woke up. The sky was still dark and he rolled his eyes at the boy with the accent. "What?"

He pushed himself upwards and sat on his hammock, rubbing his eye boogers away. "This better be important, dude."

"Your girl needs you, you slinthead. She's all shaken up from a nightmare, Chuck is now with her." Newt whispered to him.

Suddenly he woke up, he choose to ignore Newt's words about you being his girl. If he stood still by his words, he would like that but now wasn't the time. He walked fastly through the sleeping boys and his heart broke again when he heard your crying for the second time in the last few days.

Something really has shaking you up and he knew exactly what, he couldn't help but beat himself up for getting stuck in the Maze. Not knowing that it would destroy you. Your hammock came in his sight and he quickend his pace.

"Hey, Y/N," he whispered placing his hand on your shoulder. Chuck seeing his liberation quickly stood up and mumbled a quiet goodnight and walked though his hammock.

You placed your hand above his and a broken laugh and sob came out of your mouth.

"Minho, you're safe."

"I can't leavemy girl behind, can't I?" he said with a small laugh but he quickly wiped his own tears away when you didn't look.

Newt tiptoed away to his own bed, seeing that the situation was under control, a small smirk on his face. Minho wouldn't see the end of it, surely.

You embraced him, that he gladly welcomed. The two of you sitting now on your hammock while your hand sneaked through his hair. Your breathing now normal. "I thought you were stuck in the Maze again," you whispered only for him to hear. "I had a nightmare about that day."

"I have them too after my adventure," he whispered honestly back.

He dropped his head into the crook of your neck and in the heat of the moment you planted a kiss at the top of his head. His body froze and you hoped that he wouldn't reject you, but to your surprise he quickly relaxed again and the two of you cuddled for a few minutes without saying a word.

"Hey Minho," you grabbed his attention. "Do you want to know what Alby told me today?" Looking into his eyes, you searched for an answer.

"Sure tell me."

"He told me," suddenly you grew nervous. What if he didn't like what you are going to say?

"He told you what?" He shook you out of your thoughts and you didn't meet his eyes.

"He told me," you took a deep breath. "He told me we were a couple before all this."

You thought he would laugh, that it would be ridiculous but instead he gave you a warm smile. "Really?" He said in disbelief.

"Really and that you woved this necklace for me."

Oops, he couldn't believe that he tought that his own necklace was ugly. Anyways.

"Alby told you that?"

"Yes, he did."

And before you could say anything again, he hyped himself up and looked at you. You really are beautiful. With his tumb and his indexfinger he grabbed your chin and looked at your lips. "May I?"

"Yes, you may."

He gave a sweet but short kiss on your lips and after the two of you departed you felt your face become hot. "Now sleep," he demanded. "The last few days you look like a zombie."

"So kind are you," you shot back but you didn complain. Instead you were laying down and you pulled him with you. "Only if you stay," you said with a cheeky smile.

"I couldn't even climb out even if I wanted to."

The two of you laid down and quickly fell asleep with the soft snoring of the other Gladers as background music. The two of you were going to be bullied relentlessly, but you didn't care.

Your fears were now calmed down even if it was for a bit, but you couldn't ask for more.

-

Comments are appreciated!

[petra-creat0r]

Gasp! Its The Neighbor and Bellamy the Dinosaur! (Also thank you for narrowing it down, you have a lot of secret bosses.)

Alright, alright, let's see...

Prediction Bosses

Bitsy - Can I just say I love the variety of secret bosses even for the same supposed chapter? It's also interesting how both Bitsy and the Neighbor's light world items are both VHS tapes yet they're so different. Regardless of how off put Bitsy may be at the Neighbor's more... violent tendencies, she also understands a bit. (Sometimes you can almost forget she's basically a cartoon creepy pasta). As well, Bitsy knows how to be a good neighbor! That was half the lessons in her programming when it was still airing, so why would she be rude? Only time she would break that is if the Neighbor tries to bring harm to children, which he wouldn't be so stupid to do, right? Right? (The Fun Gang don't exactly count. They're teenagers. But Bitsy is nothing if a bit of a hypocrite.) Bitsy would probably berate the Neighbor about kindness like Bellamy does though. Though she might not be as forgiving as Bellamy if he ignores her. Otherwise I think Bitsy would love to be his friend!

Elymas - Elymas does NOT know how to be a good neighbor. Both the Bible and whatever text the religion of Deltarune follows might be big on "loving thy neighbor" but Elymas is a pretentious little prophet. They wouldn't even be able to spare a cup of sugar because of their whole "holier than thou" mentality, which they feel even more assured in due to the Neighbor's murderous and demonic tendencies. For as big as Elymas talks though, they are also very weak out of their undying form, and so they better learn to shut their beak and be quiet unless they want to be plucked.

Veratus - This rat idiot would fight the Neighbor. He sees the machete and pulls out his rapier and yells "ENGARDE!" This is a mistake. Though this is Veratus's way of a friendly introduction and he best get's to know people in the heat of a spar, I don't think the Neighbor would take kindly for a fight. Yet if he does, who knows? I doubt Veratus would win, and he would likely commend the Neighbor's strength and resilience, but Veratus. Veratus please, I'm sure the posters say not to fight him for a reason. You stupid rat you're going to die. For the last time you aren't in a war anymore stop fighting everyone you see, your plants can only do so much against freaking blood magic, Veratus. Veratus! - After the fight, if Veratus survives and the Neighbor doesn't straight up kill him, then the Neighbor will have earned Veratus's loyalty and respect, meaning Veratus will be willing to do anything for the Neighbor. --Another little thing I noticed after writing Veratus's blurb here, both Veratus and the Neighbor are mask buddies.

Fool's Fate Bosses

Dorothy - She'd be intrigued by the blood and violence surrounding the Neighbor, yet be empathetic as she learns more of his backstory. Prior to meeting the "strange someone", Dorothy didn't have an identity, and to learn that the Neighbor forgot his own? She'd feel sorry for him. Which would quickly turn to her getting angry at the universe and stabbing or pounding the nearest object with her hammer. (This ragdoll doesn't do well with emotions) Dorothy does know how to be a good neighbor, like Bitsy. Even if she's prone to anger and can be rude and violent, she's not so rude to not lend a neighbor a cup of sugar.

Poly - I think Poly would be afraid of the Neighbor. That blood and creepy smile? Yeah, Poly's staying away. Far, far away. Does Poly know his power and how his game has driven many, including himself to insanity? Partly but that doesn't matter, he's staying away. If the Neighbor comes near him, I imagine Poly getting so scared he no-clips into a wall or something. Fine, Poly can try to be a good neighbor and give the Neighbor a cup of sugar, whatever keeps that maniac away from him!

Casper - In the little kitty cowboy's eyes, the Neighbor is a bad guy. And bad guys need to be brought to justice. Does this mean Casper is going to make the same mistake as Veratus and try to fight the Neighbor? Possibly. I kinda see Casper trying to talk first and only bringing out the guns if the Neighbor attacks him. I still don't see this panning out well for Bandit Casper, the kitty cowboy, even if Casper ends up blacking out and Rattler takes over. Someone please keep this kitty away from the Neighbor. I doubt he can tell when something is an act anymore and doesn't realize that he is not actually the western hero he plays.

Noir - Detective Noir is ever curious about mysteries, but is also polite (and smart) enough to know to try and get a neighbor a cup of sugar when he asks for one. Would this stop the detective from trying to uncover the Neighbor's backstory and mysteries? No. He's still going to snoop and try and solve the Neighbor's story. For better or for worse. Perhaps it's a good think Detective Noir is able to slip into the shadows and sneak around.

Gonna reblog this with my bosses' reactions to Bellamy in a bit as well as think about which of my doodle ideas to go with.

((People should send me their secret bosses.

Both to draw and describe how mine would react to them.

That'd be cool

[aphrodict]

hello ari! greetings! i see your request is open and if i may – zhongli and kaeya separately comforting gn reader who thinks they're not incompatible with the guys and started to distance themselves? main reason is because reader has an opposite personality, for example kaeya's s/o is introverted, reserved, insecure of their appearances and doesnt drink meanwhile zhongli's s/o is not knowledgeable, playful and childish. so the difference in their personality makes s/o wonder why in the first place the guys are attracted to them, when they can easily find another partner who has the same personality and interests so their life would be more entertaining. i guess this is angst with comfort? thank you and sorry in advance!

“ no matter what, i love you “

tws // mentions of insecurity, slight angst but mostly fluff!

pairing // zhongli,kaeya x gn!reader

genre // hurt/comfort

authors note // hello hello!! apologies this is quite late, but here u go :>> as they say, opposites attract! also what are u saying sorry for?? its fine, whatever it is! have a good day anon <33 im so sorry if this was ooc or not what you wanted, I tried my best since im new (??) to writing kaeya! wc: 0.5k

zhongli was confused why you had been distancing yourself for a few days now, you aren't usually the quiet type. you’ve asked him several times if he found you annoying and he said no to every single one of them. once he decided to confront you about it, his heart broke into a million pieces! he’s disappointed in himself, what did he do wrong to make you think that you're not special to him? the first thing he did was give you a hug to assure you that, no, he does not love anyone else but you. you’re special to him, and he picked you since the very beginning. zhongli would tell you everyday, starting from now, that he loves you over everyone else. that you’re the only person he enjoys being with, and that no one could replace you. if that doesn't help, he would spoil you with affection every single day. that means zhongli would be clinging around with you, he would hold your hand outside, talk to you when he sees you’re alone, and give you more kisses when you two are at home. he tries his best to gives you everything you want, just to make sure that feeling would be removed from you. zhongli may be the complete opposite of you, but that does not mean he wont stop loving you.

kaeya was slowly figuring it out, connect each piece with another. until you asked him about it when you two were cuddling during the night. it was a fine day for kaeya, but most likely not you. he was shocked! why would you feel that way? he sees you as the most beautiful person in the whole entire teyvat. when you deny this, he would constantly say its true, peppering your face with kisses. he’s trying his best to be nice to you! he stops his teasing to you for now, and he brings home some gifts for you every now and then. kaeya would buy your favorite food and stay in with you much more often. but he cant push away his duties as the captain, so he brings you with him to his office. whenever kaeya is really busy though, he asks klee and albedo to take care of you and distract you from your thoughts. you’re glad he did that! klee was adorable and you had so much fun playing and laughing with her, since albedo wasn't quite the social person, you never felt the need to talk to everyone in the room. instead he just watched over you two while doing his experiments, occasionally bringing snacks. if you’re lucky, kaeya would join in as well. spending time with your friends and your boyfriend’s affection managed to make you realize that, yes, kaeya does love you. and he loves you more than anyone else.

[hugheshugs]

bestie i feel like we need to talk about dad!quinn

the way i got this message right after i read that dad!quinn imagine u reblogged 😭 he'd be the best dad ever and my hearts exploding. lets discuss <3

• i feel like he's a total girl dad. like, totally.

• but then again, i also completely see him with a son too.

• obviously gender doesn't really matter but i feel like he would be so cute with a daughter.

• maybe a son and a daughter?

• either way, he'd be an amazing dad. he'd take up all the responsibilities — feeding them, bathing them, changing them, you know it. he'd just love being a dad.

• quinn got your son skating as soon as he learnt how to walk. you were against the idea because you were scared he'd get hurt but quinn assured you he'd be safe.

• quinn would also be extremely careful with both them.

• i feel like he'd be so hesitant to let anyone near them and you'd have to help him calm down before he's just kinda like okay, fine. but if anything happens it's on you.

• and obviously nothing happens but he still stays very protective of them.

• especially the girl because she's his quiet baby. the boy's kinda rambunctious and also a bit of a mommy's boy so it works out perfectly.

• (that doesn't mean he loves him any less, no, it's quite the opposite)

• they both have him wrapped around their tiny little fingers.

• "daddy, can we get some candy please?" your daughter asked, looking up at him with doe eyes. how was he supposed to say no? so of course, he bought her all the candy she wanted and he regretted it that same night when you put him on bedtime duty.

• "can we go skating, please daddy?" your son jumped on the balls of his feet. quinn sighed, setting down the bag of groceries. he loved how much his son loved hockey but sometimes all he wanted to do was take a break from it. however, of course, he ended up at a rink nearly half an hour later.

• his daughter would bring him in for show and tell... yeah. she wouldn't even tell him about it, she'd just ask him to come pick her up from school a little early and quinn wouldn't even question it.

• she'd see him standing outside her class through the tiny window on the door and run outside, dragging him in by his hand. her little hand could only hold two of his fingers, it was adorable.

• "sweetie, what's going on?"

• "for show and tell, i brought my daddy; quinn hughes!"

• his face would be so red and she'd force him to take a seat on the stool in front of the class while he's sending the teacher an apologetic look. but even though she tricked him, he was still proud of her for coming out of her shell simply because she was excited to show off her dad.

• and his son, don't even get him started on that boy.

• he uses every chance he gets to flaunt quinn, especially in front of his hockey team. he never wants you to pick him up from practice, it's always his dad who has to. and even then, he always requests quinn to bring a special guest, like his uncles brock or elias.

• "woah, brock boeser's really your uncle?" his teammate asks in disbelief.

• "mhm," he nods excitedly, looking around for them. "here they come!"

• he quickly skates towards the glass where the pair stands, their eyes widening as more of his teammates follow suit. he does this every time yet quinn never gets used to having the attention on him. brock simply laughs as the little kids bang on the glass, waving at them.

• all in all, they're a pretty crazy trio. him and his kids are like three peas in a pod and he wouldn't have it any other way.