#obviously the commonality between now and then being 'having a good time and laughing about flan'

[pr0cyon-lotor]

AU where chess is a common strategy game in PIDW and SY is a chess master before he gets transmigrated. Like undefeated and well known in the community. He's probably popular even in mainstream social media because he's a pretty boy with a soft demeanor.

Of course he still reads PIDW and is a massive hater, but he now hides it because he sees it as shameful especially with his reputation of being a kind-hearted person.

Anyway he dies and gets thrown into the novel a bit after the Qing generation ascends. He's just a rogue cultivator or maybe even a demon, not really important. What's important is that he gets bored and misses his old hobby.

He finds out chess is a thing in this world and immediately hops into it again. Sadly, he keeps beating people and no one is a real challenge. So to give himself a puzzle, he picks up other strategy games and gets really good at them too. And after a few years, he is well known in PIWD with his skills in a variety of games.

Enter SJ. Fresh off getting LBH into his peak and STRESSED about how much he sees himself in this child and about how much he hates that fact.

He enters the Warm Red Pavilion and finds some guy playing a game with one of the jiejies. One of those little mind games to entertain the guests, and he's playing against the best one.

SJ watches while he waits for his room and to his surprise the man wins. He immediately gets ready to step in-between because whenever guests win against one of the prostitutes they always get handsy and he knows that particular one doesn't like to do sex work (like maybe she specializes in poetry and dancing instead yk).

Instead of the man getting handsy, he asks for another game, which she accepts with a smile. And now SJ is watching them play with much more interest. After a while the madam comes over and asks if he's interested in their regular.

SJ asks about the man and gets his name and finds out that apparently SY comes to the brothel to play against the ladies and listen to music at times.

SJ keeps it in mind and then leaves for his room. The next time he sees SY is during another trip down the mountain (probably dressed down to not draw attention to himself). This time he was in a tea shop playing go against an elderly man. SY wins again and patiently explains what mistakes the old man made.

The old man accepts defeat and asks him for a rematch. SY agrees, and SJ finally approaches out of curiosity. SJ asks if he can play SY after they're done. The old man says something about how he's probably going to lose anyway and says SJ just takes his turn.

SJ accepts it and sits in front of SY. He thinks it's going to be an easy win, something to stroke his bruised ego. Only for him to get completely annihilated like it was an embarrassing lost for him. (It wasn't embarrassing, he almost won, but he didn't win so obviously it was embarrassing)

SJ expects gloating and nearly crushes his fan in his hand. SY tells him that he was a tough opponent and he asks for another rematch. SJ is confused about the sincerity and hesitantly agrees even though his ego tells him to cut his losses now.

They continue to play multiple games in a row, each one getting longer and longer with each mistake SY explains and helps SJ fix (he doesn't even notice he's taking advice from a man). They continue playing and drinking tea until they're kicked out because the shop is closing.

SY laughs sheepishly and says he didn't even notice the time pass. He asks if SJ is free to play again because it's been the first time in years he's had that much fun against someone else. SJ agrees because he refuses to have a losing streak (and he found it a little fun too).

Eventually it becomes a routine, SJ comes down the mountain every week and plays SY in go until the establishment they're in kicks them out. And because his brain is constantly on how to beat SY, he starts neglecting other things (like abusive LBH and other duties).

And because he's neglecting duties, eventually he has to do a information collecting mission with Shang Qinghua. They arrive at the town and they're tasked with collecting information on a lead of a demon hiding within a festival.

Somehow this leads to SY joining their little info gathering group and finding out SQH is Airplane (he's still somehow unaware of SJ being SQQ because of course he is).

Shenanigans ensue and somehow a sting operation is set up with SY being used as bait. He manages to coerce the demon into a game of chess while he waits for SJ and SQH to arrive.

They play chess. He thinks he'll just stall until the two get there, but halfway through he moves his knight and it ends up near the demon's knight. And with a straight face, the demon takes both knights off the board while claiming "And they're both out for horsie marriage."

Right then SJ and SQH arrive to slay the demon, only to bare witness to SY doing the Xianxia equivalent of shooting the demon point blank with a Glock 19 because surprise surprise that bullshit move pissed off the chess master.

SJ says something sarcastic about not needing to save the damsel (they put) in distress. And then SY asks to speak to SQH privately while dragging him out by the ear.

He continues to interrogate the author because what the ACTUAL FUCK was that bullshit move?! And SQH defends himself by saying he never thought a professional chess player would ever read his stuff, much less play the game in-verse. He tells SY he thought it would be funny if that could happen.

Anyway.

SJ has to pry SY off SQH because he almost legitimately strangles him to death. SY is dragged away, screaming things that'd make even a demon blush, and admittedly, SJ is amused.

They end up in some tea shop, SY muttering about the idiocy of it all in English, and SJ ordering for both of them. He asks what got SY so mad since like this guy has had an unshakable pleasant demeanor until now.

SY makes up some story about how his hometown played chess differently and that he's realizing he doesn't know how chess is played anywhere else. He asks SJ for a guide for playing chess because he doesn't want to overreact like he did before.

SJ agrees in exchange for a guide of how his hometown played chess. The deal was made and after they came back to town they both write their manuals. They exchange them in their next meetup, and SY is muttering about how stupid some of the rules are. SJ finds it very funny as he reads the manual SY gave him, finding that he prefers his version since there was less unnecessary traps.

SJ eventually asks to play SY in a chess game once he understands his version. SY happily agrees and they play over and over again until SJ beat him. SY is over the moon and asks for another rematch, which he gets beaten again. They play a few more times wins alternating until SY grabs SJ's hands and tells him he's in love with him and his massive brain.

SJ is caught off guard and flustered, so he hits SY with his fan and calls him shameless as he leaves to preserve as much face as possible. SY whines about him being unfair and follows SJ while apologizing about the comment.

SJ ignores him and leaves SY alone. He thinks he fucked up until the next time they meet, and SJ brings him a book he been meaning to buy but just couldn't find. SY is about to comment on the gift but SJ shuts him up and hides his face behind his fan. He manages to see the smallest hint of a blush and (shockingly) understands.

They both start exchanging gifts each meetup in silent courting. And surprisingly he hasn't abused LBH since he got there (because he forgets to. he has a boyfriend to worry about thank you very much 🤨), so when the Conference comes, SJ doesn't throw LBH into the abyss.

He still ends up in the abyss but only because MF got thrown in when they encountered MBJ, and he jumped after his shixiong. SY is there because of course he wants to stop the evil scum villain from hurting his little lamb, but he's just standing there like

Because how else is he supposed to react to LBH throwing himself into the abyss to go after MF who was thrown in when they encountered MBJ. Was Ming Fan even supposed to be there????

Also why is SJ in such ornate robes. Why is he mourning? Why are they going back to Qing Jing? WHY IS NING YINGYING CALLING SHEN JIU BABA?! WHY IS EVERYONE CALLING HIM SHIZUN?!!!?!???

[invisibleoctopus]

thinking about when i got my wisdom teeth out and the first thing i said after i woke up from the anesthesia was "we were talking about flan" which caused the nurses to erupt in laughter because i was out for like an hour which was JUST long enough for them to forget about the convo and then find it funny when i talked about it again

[f1cflcfic]

Won't Say I'm In Love (SMAU ft. Lando Norris) - part vii

pairing: lando norris x tennis player!reader (fem!y/n); past carlos alcaraz x tennis player!reader (fem!y/n)

summary: As a general rule, y/n does not date athletes. You've been there, done that - would not recommend. Besides, you definitely don't do love. There's no time in the world for complicated feelings when there's a career Grand Slam to be won. But what if your heart just refuses to listen?

genre: social meda/mixed au, friends to lovers

note: this is RPF and is obviously in no way, shape, or form reflective of real persons

series: part i | part ii | part iii | part iv | part v | part vi | ...

April 14-18, 2025

April 19 - 21, 2025

[Transcription of video excerpt "Tennis Stars Surprise Fans..."]

“Describe my dream girl? Ideally she’d also be really into tennis, or we might have a difficult time of finding common ground,” Grigor jokes.

The fan continues. “If you had to marry someone on the tour right now, who would it be?”

“Oof, marry?! I’m not ready for that,” he laughs. “Who do you think I should marry? Who’d be a good match for me?”

“I mean, my favorite tennis player is Y/N L/N,” the fan shrugs. Dimitrov smirks, and repeats her name.

“What?” The fan questions, unsure what’s caused his reaction. “It’s just, isn’t she already dating – never mind. I don't think I'm her type.”

“My favourite is Maria Sharapova, but she isn’t on this tour,” the other fan interjects. This seems to amuse Dimitrov even more. “That’s my ex-girlfriend.”

Switch to Y/N L/N

“Shall I call her now? We’ll just give it a go,” she pulls out her phone and selects Coco’s contact. When she does pick up, she immediately turns the screen to the two fans who stare at the tennis player in awe. “Say hello to my new friends Co,” Y/N says enthusiastically. “Oh, hi – what’s up?” “They put us in a gondola, and they could ask me anything – and they wanted to know who I hung out with the most on tour. So obviously, I had to call.”

“Of course,” Coco agrees, and is about to respond when she gets interrupted by another voice and winces. “Yikes, that’s my sign to hang up to and avoid a penalty drill. I’ll see you later, have fun!”

“Well there you go,” Y/N grins as she hangs up. “To be honest, this is how most of our conversations go – we always get interrupted by one of us having to go and train.”

“What would you be doing if you weren’t playing tennis?”

She purses her lips and thinks about it for a moment. “I’d probably run a dog rescue. Or a pet rescue at least. I think I’d like that.”

April 25 - 29, 2025

[Transcription of press conference post-quarter final]

Y/N, you are also one of the signatories of the letter that was sent to both the WTA and ATP - asking to renegotiate the prize money to be won at Grand Slams. Can you tell us more about why you made that decision?

"Yeah, sure. It's not just about the slams by the way - it's about the entire WTA and ATP tours. I'm lucky now to be in a position where I don't have to qualify and automatically enter tournaments. So my chances of being able to support myself and my team financially are much better. When you don't have that position, it's really hard to be a pro tennis player. It shouldn't be that hard, and it certainly shouldn't be an obstacle or barrier for players wanting to enter tournaments or wanting to actually dedicate their life to the craft of playing tennis at such high level. Plus, the percentage of money that now goes to players versus the tour itself is also skewed. Not just in terms of ATP versus WTA, but also in terms of what the organizers get versus what we get as players. There's examples out there of fairer agreements in other sports, also included in the letter."

Thank you. I was also wondering if you feel like the requirements of playing the tour are fair and equitable, considering both the money you receive if you win & the division of labor between WTA and ATP players?

"Quite frankly, no. I mean, we do a lot of media - all of us have those obligations. But it's men who get all the headlines. If you look at tennistv or espn - most tennis content is focused on male players. Yet we are out here, too. And then I get used as content instead about who I'm dating. Not exactly comparable experiences, I'd say."

You and your opponent Naomi Osaka have both also been vocal about mental health, and its effects on athletes' performance. Your friend Lando Norris, who was in the crowd today, has also been an advocate for open conversations around this topic. Do you have those with one another, too?

"He's here? Really? I'm too focused on the court to know what happens off of it, but that's so nice to know, thank you! I forgot your question, sorry."

He is, yeah. My question was if it's a topic you talk about with your fellow tour players, or even with friends who may or may not be in sports?

"You know, I wish I could say yes, but the honest answer is no. It's not brought up often, because it is definitely also still seen as another potential element to exploit. It's hard to be open, but I'm working on trusting my friends with my brain chemistry."

∘•···············•∘ʚ ♡ ɞ∘•················•∘ ∘•···············•∘ʚ ♡ ɞ∘•················•∘∘•···············•∘

A/N: it's 2AM, here we are (iykyk)... I used too many images, and had to use a good old classic text divider instead of the image divider I've been using for this fic, sorry about that! Next up: Concern, Physical Touch and Shenanigans when in Rome

part viii is available here now

♥ likes, comments, reblogs and asks are always very much appreciated - i love chatting and hearing your thoughts! ♥

taglist (open): @linnygirl09 @julesbog @midnight-and-books @sarx164 @obxstiles @freyathehuntress @vhkdncu2ei8997 @berrnuu @lightdragonrayne @glow-ish @batsratswrites @blushmimi @colmathgames2

[miiyoshi]

slurred

iwaizumi x reader -- cw: drinking, bar environment, iwa is quite drunk wc: 695// an: feeling cutsey today! wrote another fluff :)

iwaizumi takes another sip out of his drink as the atmosphere around him is the most vibrant it’s been all night. in the cracks of the city there sits a bar, not too big and not too small. it’s more of a shared secret between you and the seijoh four, a common meet up location when all five schedules finally align once in a full moon.

the lights are dim enough that you have to turn your screen brightness lower than before you entered, a general buzz of sound due to the ongoing conversations, and a very sweet tight knit staff who know you and your friends by name at this point.

oikawa’s taking photos with makki in the shared booth you’re all situated in, mattsun at the bar chatting with the bartender as he prepares your group with a new round of drinks, and you sitting at the edge with iwaizumi to your left.

“you doing okay?” you turn to iwa as you see him swish his beer in the bottle with his right hand

“mhm” he hums back “feelin’ good, s’a good time. you?” you know he’s far gone when he slurs his words like this

“i’m good as well! think i’m done drinking for the night though, i have an early day tomorrow”

“s’okay!” iwa insists loudly, throwing his arm over your shoulder and pulling you close. his voice little too loud that oikawa and makki turn to him for a moment and you miss a sly grin creeping up on oikawa’s face when he sees the scene in front of him

“let’s do one more round of drinks together,” iwazumi continues

“maybe another time iwa,” you return with a smile

you can see the gears turning in his head just by looking at his face deep in thought and you give iwaizumi a few moments to formulate his words.

he mumbles your name quiet enough so that the others don’t hear. “need to say something..need to tell you something but you can’t tell anyone, ok?” his face is so close to yours, you can’t help but hold your breath in anticipation. he’s close enough that you smell his refreshing cologne, you’re able to see the way his muscles stretch the sleeves of his shirt (he needs to size up), and the way his hair looks spikier than usual now that he’s been sweating throughout the evening.

“of course iwa, what is it?”

“but you cant tell, you promise? you have to promise”

“yes, i promise!” you giggle

“m’gonna make you mine one day.”

now the gears are turning in your head as you try to process his words

“i’m sorry? what was that?”

“shhh but don’t tell okay???” iwaizumi brings his index finger to your mouth, gesturing a shushing motion.

“i told oikawa this already, and i told him to not tell. he says i need to confess to you first, like obviously that dumbass, but yeah m’ gonna make you mine”

you try your best to hold back a laugh from oikawa’s name being brought up, “did oikawa encourage you to tell me this?” you tease him, but iwaizumi doesn’t quite pick up your tone in this state.

“exactly!” iwaizumi nods, once again dragging out his words, “how’d you know?”

of course he did. and you knew it had something to do with oikawa’s antics because that’s what he’s been telling you this entire time as well. oikawa was always one to tease you about your crush on iwaizumi, always encouraging you to just confess already! and it’s evident now that he’s been telling iwaizumi the exact same thing this entire time.

except for iwaizumi in his buzzed state, he actually does end up listening to his friend’s advice and exposes himself.

“lucky guess,” you tease iwa with a wink.

in the morning, you know iwaizumi will forget everything that he said to you, you know that the two of you will go back to friends who keep teetering the edge of friends and lovers, but what you don’t know is iwaizumi has already thought of a way to ask you out soon; sober, this time.

[short-honey-badger]

Jealousy won't get you anywhere

SPOILER ALERT for latest chapter of One Piece

Pairings! Shanks x Female Reader, One-Sided! Figarland Shamrock x Female Reader

Warnings! Drinking and Shanks gets jealous

Masterlist for Shamrock-> HERE

Shanks is jealous, and he does not like the feeling one bit. You are supposed to be his woman, his girlfriend. But here you were, paying his snobby, uptight twin all your attention. Shanks had thought it would be a good idea for the two of you to finally meet, but with how the night keeps processing, he regrets ever having the idea in the first place. Sure, you hadn't let go of his hand and was even leaning into his space, but you haven't spoken to him since Shamrock introduced himself.

And he could see that smug, better-than-thou expression on the other redhead's face every time he looked over your head, and it just pissed Shanks off even more. Usually, he wouldn't be above whining to get your attention, but he doesn't want to show the other man any kind of weakness, especially with it being his older brother.

Shanks doesn't even know what the two of you are talking about, but it's obviously something he isn't clued in on because he doesn't understand the quick back and forth going on between the two of you. He can't help but feel like you like Shamrock better right now, and that hurts more than feeling jealous.

He purses his lips and slams back the shot of whiskey that sits in front of him, gesturing with a nod for the bartender to fill it back up when they notice. Fine. If you wanted to pay so much attention to Shamrock, then he would drink and ignore both of you.

By his fourth shot, Shanks is silently lamenting to himself, convinced that you just don't love him anymore. That he just isn't as good as his well-kept, clean, non-alcoholic older twin. Of course, you would prefer Shamrock over him, with his long, silky hair and fancy clothes. Shanks was nothing but a beach bum, someone not worth your attention.

By his seventh shot, Shanks has slumped forward, arm untucked from around your waist as he rests his head in his palm, face angled away from you and his brother. He feels cold without you pressed up against him, but it's like you hadn't even noticed when he withdrew, still too occupied with talking about books of all things with Shamrock. It was just another nail in the coffin that Shanks had built for himself.

Of course, you would have more things in common with his older brother than with him. He didn't read or even write like you enjoyed. He knew that you would spend hours a day sunbathing on the deck of his ship while you leaked through a book, and while Shanks had asked what they were about, the subject either went over his head, or he didn't find them very interesting. Hell, he would usually fall asleep, face tucked into your lap while you told him about your current read. What kind of boyfriend did that make him?

The press of your fingers sliding through his hair brings Shanks out of his stupor, and he raises his face enough to angle it towards you. You are smiling down at him, a gentle look that makes his heart beat wildly in his chest. You were so beautiful, and he didn't deserve any of you.

“I'm sorry I'm not as well-educated as he is,” Shanks slurs without thinking, and watches your eyes widen, brow furrowing at his words, but he plows on ahead, “I would understand if you left me for him.”

Behind you, Shamrock barks a laugh. He had watched the downward spiral this entire time, watching his twin knock back shot after shot the longer he kept your attention away from him. He shrugs when you turn and sends him a sharp glare, not feeling guilt at all over his younger brother's hurt feelings.

“Maybe she should, since you are acting so much like a child right now,” Shamrock sneers and reaches out, one gloved hand falling against your thigh and squeezing.

The sight sends fury through Shanks, his eyes widening as you jerk under the hand on your leg, pulling away with a disapproving frown.

“Don't you dare touch her,” he snarls hotly and slides his arm around your waist, tugging you off your stool and into his side, shielding you from his twin. Any thoughts of you leaving him for Shamrock disappear, and he glares over the top of your head, “She's mine. Not yours.”

His actions just make his brother grin meanly and stand, looming above the two of them with the height his boots give him. You glare at both of them, put off by being treated like some object to be won.

“That's enough,” you snap and shrug out of Shanks’ embrace. He gives you a look of hurt, but you roll your eyes at him, “I'm not leaving you Shanks, but I thought you would know better than to get jealous like this. It's unbecoming of you.”

He feels like a kicked puppy at your words and wilts immediately, lips tugging up into a pout. Shanks knows that you are right, and guilt eats at him for thinking otherwise. He watches you round on his brother, but the other redhead just smirks at you, not affected or shamed by the disappointment you look at him with.

“I'm not even going to bother with you,” you grumble and then snag Shanks by the hand, “It was good to meet you, Shamrock, but I don't think you're very good for my health.”

The god knight just huffs and rolls his eyes, “If you'd prefer someone who doesn't act like a spoiled brat, I'll be a phone call away, my dear.”

Shanks glares at his twin for his comment, but dutifully follows you when you tug him out of the bar. You are silent for a while, all the way until the two of you arrive at the docks before you turn and stare at Shanks. You feel a little bad for snapping at him earlier.

“I can understand not why it took you so long to introduce your brother. He's an acquired taste,” you tell him, and Shanks huffs, lips twisting into a frown.

“He's an asshole.”

His blunt words startle a laugh out of you, but you nod along.

“That he is, love. So you better not think that just cause he looks like you, I would leave you for him. You are the man I love, okay?”

Shanks flushes and nods, chest losing that tight feeling at your assurance, “Okay. I'm sorry, baby. I love you, too.”

You smile and reach for him, drawing the redhead in for a soft kiss that Shanks melts into, “Good. You better for all the shit you put me through.”

@mit-suri @mfreedomstuff

[z3rinn]

# #. DOING THEIR MAKEUP !!

featuring: nrc 1st years !! You're usually bored in Ramshackle, even while having sleepovers with the other first year boys. But then, you suddenly have an epiphany!! To do their makeup!! But how do they react?

srry I haven't posted in a while >.< I've been working on some projects that I hope you guys will enjoy! Plus winter break is always so hectic for me lol. I hope all of ur holidays went well and i hope you have a happy new year!

# #. ACE TRAPPOLA

Ace is initially sceptical at first. Why would you offer to do his makeup? It was such a random request, he couldn't help but be nervous. Were you about to prank him? Or draw a dick on his face??? Was this payback for all the times he's drawn them on you and Deuce?

It doesnt take much convincing to let you though- drawing that heart day after day gets annoying. Especially because Riddle makes sure it's perfect every morning. It'd be nice to have someone do it for him.

Ace sits in front of you, legs spread for you to sit in between. He's leaning against the couch, slouching and complaining about how long this would take. Yet, the sudden feeling of your hands on his face shuts him up. Huh. When did the two of you get so close?

Your hands brush against his face, a sort of tension in the air as you do so. The soft sensation of the makeup brush, the powder on his face, the chill of the air. It was all calming and cold. Yet he couldn't help but feel warm.

You were too close to him. That had to be it! So close he could feel your breath on his lips. Once he felt your fingertips press against the plush of lips, he flushed brightly. He hoped you didn’t notice his stare.

Once you finish he smirks. That stupid, snarky, voice leaving his lips. He teases you for being so close to him, saying you must've done it on purpose. Luckily, you couldn't notice his pink cheeks under the blush you placed on him. He hums lightly, a cheeky grin forming on his face. He’d have to let you do this again.

# #. DEUCE SPADE

Deuce had makeup on his face before, seeing things like foundation and concealer were common to find on him. His mom would put them on him, it was due to their matching complexions, she would say, giggling.

He stopped during his delinquent era, using it occasionally to draw scars and bruises to seem “cool.” Makeup reminded him of his mom. Of his time as a delinquent. Of both his bad and good decisions. Perhaps that’s why he was afraid to agree.

Nonetheless, he accepts, albeit a bit nervously. Deuce sits on his knees, body tense as he glances around the room. You sit before him, laughing at his flushed face. You probably wouldnt even need to blush him with how red he was. Deuce was panicking, you were way too close to his face.

He's nervous and tense when your hands come to caress his cheeks. At first not even registering your touch. The feeling of his skin on yours is too much at first. It’s like he’s about to explode with how fast his heart.

However, he soon relaxes, face still flushed and heart still pounding. But he had a dazed look in is in his eyes, so close to falling asleep. The feeling of your hands on his face, gently putting product on him. He could fall asleep to this. It was comforting.

He flushes bright red when you wake him up, stuttering apologies like he had accidentally pushed you or something. You laughed at him, ruffling his hair (that you did while he was asleep) before pressing a teasing kiss to his cheek. Now he was burning.

# #. JACK HOWL

Jack's also confused, why would you want to put makeup on him of all people? Wouldn't you prefer someone prettier? But then you comment on how pretty he looked during the fairy gala, leaving him with a wagging tail and twitching ears.

Jack still looms over you, even while sitting. So it's better to have his head in your lap, or have him sit in a chair while you do it. You chose the former option (obviously). So he lays his head in your lap, albeit awkwardly.

Your hands travel to the back of his head, slightly massaging the hair behind his ears. His eyes are closed, body tense, like any sudden movements would disrupt you. You just giggle, petting him more and telling him to loosen up.

Soon, he relaxes, melting into your touch. His heightened senses usually make things uncomfortable, especially with things on his face. Yet your touch was calming and nice. Plus the scratches did help.

It reminded him of his siblings, and how they would make him play dress up and put makeup on him for fun. All those tea parties he had to attend, and those scrutinizing hours of just sitting there seemed to be useful once in a while. His eyes open to meet your own, golden eyes gazing up at you.

You were concentrating, biting your lips slightly as you blush his cheeks. He can't help but smile at your face. Once noticing Jack's stare you smile, complementing how still he was, compared to everyone else. Would he let you do this again? Yeah. If you asked.

# #. EPEL FELMIER

Epel sighs, dramatically falling to the floor. Of course you'd want to do his makeup. Ever since coming to NRC he's had to deal with people (Vil) wanting to put products on him like he was some sorta mannequin.

But you're not Vil, and you weren't forcing it onto him. And Epel could admit the teeny tiny crush he had on you. ( Having your hands on him was like a fever dream- ) Plus you were one of his closest friends! So with the sweetest smile ever, he agrees.

He sits crossed legged, with you on your knees above him. You look down at him, lifting his head up slightly. You cup his cheek, gently running your finger down the soft flesh, they were so smooth that not even a single blackhead was there. Vil's products really worked!

Meanwhile Epel was trying so hard to not scream at the top of his lungs. He could feel your warm, minty, breath, your skin softly caressing his own. He wanted to shove his face into one of the couch pillows and scream for an eternity.

Luckily, he's able to keep his composure, and soon gets lost in the familiar feeling of makeup on his face. It was oddly comforting, or satisfying at least. But he just can't seem to let go of the butterflies in his stomach.

Seven forbid he opens his eyes again ( they've been closed this whole time ) cause as soon as he sees your focused stare he's gonna retire to the countryside. The smile you give when finishing melts his heart. When he gets back to pomefiore he's gonna scream into that pillow like there's no tomorrow.

# #. SEBEK ZIGVOLT

Sebek is yapping and refusing, saying how it's unbecoming to wear makeup as a knight. He would get messy and dirtied during his training anyway, so what was the point? You remind him that Lilia's a knight, and that he wears makeup. He shuts up...Before yelling once more.

You sigh, groaning into a couch pillow at his annoying voice. Looks like you'll have to bring out the ultimate weapon for this. You stand up, batting your lashes as you place an arm on his shoulder. "But Sebek, don't you want to look your best for Malleus?"

That gets him to shut up. He sits on the sofa, posture still perfect as he grumbles to himself, arms crossed. Yet you can see the nervous excitement on his face. It was both cute yet annoying how dedicated he was.

You stand above him, a cheeky grin on your lips as you hold the brushes to his face. He's rolling his eyes at you, telling you to hurry it up. And that you do. He doesn't care much for the feeling, finding it somewhat pleasant- in a weird way.

He's far more focused on the way your standing above him. Your eyes gaze at him, and it feels like your staring deeply into his soul. He notices how your lips pucker slightly, carefully placing lipstick on his own. Your lips look oddly nice....

GAH- you're just a dumb human!! Why was he thinking about you like this?? He's suddenly flushing a bright red. Sputtering curses and nonsense- something about you bewitching him?? You just roll your eyes, quickly finishing the job before kicking him out. At least he looks good for Waka-Sama.

[cassiopeia-longbottom98]

Nott's Big Question

Relationship: Theodore Nott x Reader

Summary: Theo takes you to dinner. It's just a normal dinner at Blaise's, right?

Warning: Use of Y/N

_______________________________________

"Theo, thank you so much for dinner. You know how much I love Blaise's lasagna." I said happily. I tilt my head to the side and smile.

Theo stares back at me in awe. He admires us from across the table. "My goddess, you are absolutely stunning tonight. You always are, but tonight even the stars are envy your beauty."

I blush at the compliment. Theo has always been very good with his words, but they always seemed to leave me flustered.

"T-thanks Theo.", I say blushing, "You look dashing as ever. Blaise should offer you as dessert." I wink at him.

Theo grins, "Only for you, my darling."

You both talk about your day. Theo rants about how Draco keeps coming in late and how he has to pick up Draco's slack.

Ever since Draco and Hermione had gotten back from their honeymoon 3 months ago, Draco has been coming in late. I have my theory that she's pregnant. She wasn't looking too well after she had to use the floo when we had dinner last week. Theo thinks they are just shagging all the time.

"Hey Y/n!" Ginny calls. I look up to see Mr. and Mrs. Potter. Ginny and Harry have been married for a few years now. Their wedding was on the cover of the Daily Prophet for at least two weeks.

I smile and greet them. "Are you guys here on date night as well?" Theo asked. Harry nodded.

"Yeah. Ginny has been talking about wanting to come back here, since Y/n's birthday dinner." Ginny elbows Harry in the side. Harry grunts and glares at his wife.

"Anyways, I see you guys are here on date night." Ginny smiles and gives Theo a weird look.

'I wonder what that was about.' I think to myself but eventually brush it off.

Harry and Ginny go and sit at their table and we continue with our date.

Theo and I continue to eat your food in comfortable silence. It was never uncomfortable between you guys. He looks up at me and smiles.

When I first met Theo back in second year, he never smiled. I remember the first time I saw it.

It was fourth year and everyone was coming back at the Yule Ball. Draco seemed to be in a mood. Pansy stormed off to the dorm room, and everyone else was starting to get tired. Blaise wanted to lighten the mood and to make his best friend smile, so he asked Blaise to dance. Both being purebloods, they obviously knew to dance properly. The two of them started doing the tango. I watch from afar. Being a muggleborn sorted into Slytherin was rare and that meant I was an easy target.

I laughed at the boys being silly. I turned to see Draco smirking. I looked back at the dancing duo and was taken back. Theo had the most beautiful smile and his laugh could cure all things evil. The Slytherin common room never felt warmer.

"Well, hello lovers. I took time out of my very busy schedule to bring you this exclusive dessert." Blaise greeted. I giggle at his antics. Blaise has always been dramatic. Blaise shows us his very new cheesecake, carrot cake cheesecake. Theo grunts, trying to convince Blaise to leave.

Blaise chuckles and looks down at me, "You know Y/n, if you ever get tired of him, my bed is always available." I chuckle at him as he walks away. Theo mutters about how he is going to kill him.

"Theodore darling, we both know you won't kill him. Who else would you dance with?" He glares at me as he tries a bit out of the cheesecake.

I take a bite and moan. Theo looks up at me hungrily.

"Y/n, would you care for a stroll after dinner?" Theo asks. "I am going to have to work off this cheesecake to keep this sexy body." He grins at my laugh.

"I would love it. Got to keep that figure or else I may have to take up Blaise's offer." I wink at him.

He glares at me as he finishes and goes to pay.

As we walk down Diagon Alley, I lean into him to try and warm myself. "Cold, my love?" Theo asks softly.

I nod. I feel as the warming charms that Theo placed work its magic. Theo has always been a sweetheart. He doesn't act like it around others, but he's such a softie with me. As we walk, I feel Theo pull my closer and wrap his arm around my shoulders. I lean into smelling smoke, wine, and cinnamon. His scent comforts me.

Abruptly we stop, and I look up at Theo. I see him grinning, his cheeks dusted with red.

"Remember this spot?" He asks cheekily. I look up and see we are outside of Fortescue's Ice cream Parlor.

I blush. "Oh Merlin. How could I forget?" It's the day I embarrassed myself in front of you."

"By embarrassed, you mean ruin one of my favorite shirts." I smack his arm. "You know it was an accident." He chuckles. Theo grabs my hands and smiles at me.

"You know that is one of my favorite memories of you. I don't understand how I never noticed you before then. I love your dark green eyes and sandy brown hair. You make my life so much better. I never knew happiness or love until I met you. You know how my father was. I would go through again every time if that meant I would get to be with you. Y/n Smith, I will love you until the day my magic gives out. I will love you until Draco and Blaise stop getting annoying.", Theo says as he gets down on one knee with a ring in his hand, "Will you please do me the honor of marrying me and making me the happiest man in this galaxy?"

I stand there stunned. I never imagine Theo would be on one knee in front of me. I stare at him until I could see the nerves starting to hit. I squeal and wrap myself around him. "Yes, Yes, Yes!!!" I yell. I hear Theo curse under his breath.

"Salazar woman, you about gave me a heart attack. I thought you were going to say no." Theo chuckled.

I look at him and place my hand on his cheek.

"Merlin Theo, I never thought you would have proposed to me. I would always say yes to you. I love you so much."

I pull Theo closer and kiss him softly. Theo leans in and deepens the kiss.

We finally pull away as we heard people around us start whispering. I stand up and pull Theo up.

We apparate back to our house. As we snuggle on our couch, I look at my ring. "How does Y/n Nott sound?" I look at Theo smiling big.

"It sounds perfect love." Theo whispers and he leans down to kiss me.

[luveline]

Miguel and Spider-girl not being official yet, but spending a lot of time at his place. He notices another Spider-man being very friendly and flirty with you, but you’re so sweet, you don’t even notice. He gets grumpy and one of the girls points it out, but it makes your heart swell, assuring him later that you’re his, even if he isn’t ready to make that official step yet.

hope this is OK!!

You tend to wake up before Miguel, and you slink out of his bed and his room without saying goodbye for the day if you have things to do. You have a training course hosted by Lady Spider at lunch time, so the chances of Miguel seeing you for hours on either side are slim.

Slim, but not zero. 

It's just after lunch when Miguel's taking the elevator down to Spider-Woman's laboratory when he sees you out on the floor. There are variants of you around, you're nowhere near as common as Peter Parkers or Gwen Staceys, but sometimes he'll see different versions of you hanging about the cafeteria. There are a few who, like you, adore him from the very first moment they see him. There's one who clearly wants to twist him up like a pretzel. But he knows it's you, and it would be shameful if he didn't, having spent so much time around you, having kissed you, felt your naked shoulders under his hands.

He doesn't think, he just clicks the stop button on the elevator and waits for the doors to open. 

You're not great at making friends. Pretty much every Spider person is a little weirdo, but you perturb the imperturbable with your flirting and your niceness, he assumes. You come off rather suspiciously at moments. He himself didn't trust you as far as he could throw you at first (though admittedly he could throw you quite far). 

Which is why he's pleased to see you in company. You and a couple of other rookies are milling around one of the training gymnasiums. The keychain of your phone hangs out of your pocket, purple translucent beads against your black thigh. You've been having a great time making jewellery lately, and he should know —no matter how well you clean, he finds beads and metal eyelets on the floor and occasionally in the sheets. 

"I can make you one," you're saying, clearly delighted at being asked. 

"You would?" asks a Spider-Man. Miguel doesn't know who he is, only that his suit looks vaguely similar to Peter B.'s, and… he's standing quite close to you, actually. 

Miguel stops walking. 

"Who is that?" Lyla asks. 

"Shouldn't you know?" he asks her. 

"What, like I'm some sort of intelligence model that knows everything about everyone?" 

Miguel doesn't have the cheer to laugh. His presence is like a rippling wave, a mixture of proud smiles and scared glances shot his way. He barely notices, his attention on you and your admirer. 

You and Miguel are sleeping together, but it's more than that. You spend hours together every day. He all but admitted he's infatuated with you, and you've been obviously embroiled in his disastrous personality since the moment you met him. You don't care that he's made pages upon pages of terrible decisions, you still deign to sit in his lap every evening, stroking hair behind his ears while you talk about everything but whatever it is between you.

He's never been scared about the exclusivity of your situation until right now. 

"It's not so hard, it just takes time," you say. 

"Don't put yourself down! You have talented hands, I can tell." 

You preen very sweetly in Miguel's opinion. It's not often he sees you shy. It's a shame the compliment you've perceived and the one Spider-Man is laying down aren't totally equivalent. 

"Thank you so much. You know, my– Miguel, we have matching charms," you say, beaming. 

"Miguel," Spider-Man says worriedly, "as in, Miguel O'Hara." 

"Yes!" you say happily. 

"Yep," Miguel says, with altogether too much satisfaction. 

Spider-Man looks at him with wide eyes. Miguel isn't proud, but he glares, as if to say, If you know what's good for you. 

"I'll see you later," Spider-Man says, shoulders slouched forward as he walks away. 

You give a cheerful goodbye and lean into Miguel as you do, your hand touching his hip. "Did you hear? He said my keychains are awesome." 

"I heard. Are you coming up with me?" he asks. 

Your smile turns playful. "Do you want me to?" 

"I think Miguel definitely wants you where he can see you," Lyla says.

Miguel bats her like a moth, to her annoyance. She whizzes around his head, her white coat fluttering from the simulated force of her movement, before pretending to kick him in the jaw as she disappears. 

"What does that mean?" you ask. 

"It doesn't mean anything. I want you wherever you want to be."  

"Oh. Well, I like being with you," you say, "so we all win. Are we going to the lab?" 

Miguel nods and can't summon any words to say that won't give him away. He leads you to the elevator, and together you stand in the centre of the glass box looking down at the inner workings of the Society scraper. It looks more like an ant hive than a spider's nest, wriggling bodies moving in waves from one place to the other. 

He tries not to be sullen with you. Punishing you for decisions he has or hadn't made isn't his style, but he can't help falling silent. You deserve to be complimented, fawned at, praised for your keychains. They're great. You're great. 

There's no reason for you to choose him over any other person who might want your affections. 

"Is something wrong?" you ask. 

"No." 

"Yes," Lyla says. 

"Nothing is wrong," Miguel says. 

"Well, if I did something–" 

"You didn't do anything," Miguel and Lyla say at the same time, their voices varying in level of joy. "Miguel's just jealous," Lyla finishes.

Miguel would prefer that the elevator crash down a thousand floors than have this conversation. Luckily, the elevator opens, and he spears ahead toward his laboratory and away from your prying questions. 

"Why are you jealous, handsome?" you ask, taking doubly quick footsteps to keep up with his large strides. 

"I'm not jealous." 

"What's wrong, then?" 

"Nothing." 

"That blows. Don't be a coward," you tease. 

"I'm not being a coward," he says, laughing. He loves and hates how you lift his mood. 

"I didn't think so. You're going to tell me what's wrong, I can feel it," you say, grabbing his wrist in your hand. 

He's thankful Lyla read the room and disappeared, but he knows she's listening. He sticks his tongue in his cheek for a moment. 

"We aren't… you have no obligation to me," he says. 

"I don't think that's true." 

"Well, you don't." 

"What, because we aren't on paper?" Ah. Lackadaisical you may be, but you're just as smart as anyone. You wrap your arms around your stomach. "So you have no obligation to me?"

"That's not what I'm saying." 

Your sudden spike of insecurity fades. "That's sort of how it works, Miguel." 

"You don't have to be stuck with me," Miguel says. "That's all." 

"Good thing I'm not stuck." You begin walking again and Miguel takes your cue, following behind you in a daze he isn't proud of. "I quite like being with you, unstuck. We don't have to call it anything or anything, but you don't have to feel grumpy about my lack of obligation." 

"Qué maravilla. You have it all figured out, huh?" he asks, though inside he's more than relieved. 

"No!" you say through laughter. "Of course I don't. I know you, though. And you have me." 

Your hand clamps onto his shoulder and you go on toes to kiss his cheek. You need a little help; Miguel dips his face toward his shoulder to give you better access. You kiss his cheek.

"I might tell Peter I can't make him a keychain, after all," you say. "I– I think he might have been flirting with me." 

Miguel nods, his smile painfully tight. "You think so?" 

Your laughter fans out across his cheek as you give him a second kiss. 

[knnichs]

my eternity

young love, loyalty, and admiration. a gentle reminder from your dear friend that he will stick with you, even after you've gotten sick of him.

c. kingdom messenger sethos x royalty gn!reader

t. character(s) are friends with reader but have romantic feelings, mutual pining (ish??), royalty au obviously, friends to something more but less than lovers LOL, reader is the princeps/princess/prince of the vehero kingdom, dehya obviously knows about readers crush on sethos & sethos' crush on reader, fluff, not proofread we die like bamoun, POSSIBLY OOC SETHOS ??? wc: 4.1k WOOHOO

taglist. @thestarswhisper @honeyney @pneumosia @tragedy-of-commons @gl4di0lus @ariadnehelx @azuresaqua @mikashisus @yuomizuu-> join the taglist here!

author notes at the end !

The sun had already begun to set, but your day was far from finished.

Being the future ruler of the Vehero Kingdom, you had quite the list of responsibilities. It wasn’t as simple as attending your classes on time and doing homework once you got back anymore–despite being homeschooled your whole life. No, you now had to help with managing the events, attending meetings, and political discussions. You have to watch your every step as even the smallest mistake may lead to war.

Now is a time where you truly had to be aware of everything you say. The annual banquet was just around the corner and you had prepared a hefty bit of it. So, safe to say that you have put in a ton of effort just to make this event possible this year. It’s not that your parents didn’t trust anyone to do it for them, or they didn’t have the time to manage it–you were of age now. Maybe it’s time you take part in these events, they said to you.

You’re tired of it, though. Incredibly tired.

In between your duties–you caught glimpses of a familiar dark brown haired fellow come and go in the palace; talking with the maids, laughing while playing cards with the guards, and leaving once more with his bag filled to the brim. Sethos, your kingdom's beloved messenger. 

You remember telling him to deliver the invitation letters in the port's post office after the last group of messengers failed to bring it as they ‘lost’ them (they really just went to the tavern and completely forgot about it.) He’s quite efficient with his work–usually a quick trip to the port would be around 30 minutes by foot, yet he manages to come back 15 minutes earlier. 

Ah, yes. His “secret power,” as he loved to say. Especially when the king, your father, compliments him for his diligent work and asks for his route–he simply shrugged and said “I just move fast.” 

There he is, in the flesh, several doors away from you; your best friend of many years now. He’s come to teach you many things about the palace. Secret doors that lead to underground tunnels, hidden doors in the library… You wonder why he knows all of this. 

You lean on the wall, shoulders shrugged as you crossed your arms and sighed. You couldn’t wait until night came around–changing into your silk robes and lying on the soft mattress while reading a book you liked, or falling asleep immediately.

“Your highness,” Dehya coughed, seeing your prolonged stare at the window. You hadn’t noticed you zoned out already–no wonder your eyes felt heavy. “Is something wrong?”

You shook your head as you faced the girl, greeting her with a small smile. “Nothing in particular, Dehya.” 

She glanced over your shoulder, catching sight of Sethos immediately. And she grins. “Boy problems? Why don’t you go talk to him?” 

For some odd reason, the idea makes you a little excited. After a really long day, a good talk with your… friend, would be pretty rewarding. Sethos is quite an entertaining person–you thought to yourself many times, questioning if he could possibly feel the same way to you.

But again, it probably wouldn’t happen at all. 

“Ah, yes! Let’s go bother someone who is clearly busy. Great idea.” You roll your eyes.

“Come on, your highness. I don’t think he’ll mind,” Dehya takes a few steps closer to you, hand pointed at the window as she looks at you encouragingly. “See? He’s wavin’ at you right now.”

You went to look at the window–watching what was going on. “No, he isn’t.”

“Oh my god–just go approach him!”

“And I’m telling you, I’m doing something.”

“I don’t get paid enough for this,” Dehya puts her arms up in defeat, eyes closed as she looks down at the floor and grinned. “I’ll see you later, your highness.”

She walks away, leaving you alone in the hallway filled with tiles and marbles and old paintings that look almost alive. You stare as she opens the doors and goes to the many living rooms in the palace. A part of you thought that she was right–maybe you should. But you somehow couldn’t get the courage to.

“He’s busy.” You repeat–mostly for yourself.

 “We both don’t have the time.”

It’s been a hectic day. You’ve walked maybe ten thousand steps today from preparations alone, you wonder how it would be like on the event itself. You’ve talked with the maids, told the band what to play during the dinner, you cleared the menu your parents created as they weren’t appropriate at all for a banquet, so you ended up creating another menu and checked with the chefs if they were possible. There were just so many more that it’s hard to list them all in your head. 

Now, you were fresh out of a hot bath, some chamomile tea on the side of your nightstand. You were laying in your bed, wrapped in the softest blanket, dressed in loose clothing, and you had just finished reading your book. The night was cold, so your balcony was halfway opened to bring some air into your bedroom. The moon is shining on the carpet, it’s comfortable, it’s nice. 

But you can’t sleep. Not at all.

Some thoughts are rushing in your head–and there are no thoughts at all. The blanket is soft, but you feel too hot, and when you take it off you feel cold. Your head sinks into the pillows but it makes you dizzy, your tea was too sweet and now you wonder if you somehow added too much sugar and ended up getting the energy to do things. You’re tired, but not at the same time.

Does that make sense?

On nights where you find yourself restless, your first thought is to go to the gardens. There, you’re alone, only with the moon's gaze and the flowers you tend to when you have the time. Tonight is no different. Once again, you’re looking up at the sea of stars above you to find comfort.

If being an heir to the throne was this stressful, you wonder how much worse it’ll be when you do eventually become their leader.

“In deep thought, your highness?” A familiar voice calls just behind the bushes, to where the swing is. Usually you’re all alone on these nights, but it doesn’t necessarily mean a certain someone joins you from time to time.

“Sethos,” you push a few stray vines from the tree, ducking down from the branches and looking at the white swing. “Apologies… for the silence. I didn’t notice you were here.”

“It’s fine, I didn’t say anything anyway.” He pats down the space beside him, moving a little to make more room. You smile, taking a seat and nodding a thanks to the boy.

Silence wasn’t uncommon when it came to the two of you. He understood your duties drained you socially and physically—which is why he usually fills the silence with his voice. Talking about his day, what he did, or reminiscing a little on memories from the past.

“You’ve been out and about, what brings you here at this hour? I’d be too tired to even make the trip.” His voice had a raspier edge than usual—proof of his exhaustion from the day as well.

You look at the sky again, “I don’t know, actually. I felt too tired to sleep. Quite odd, isn’t it?” 

He laughs, the sound bringing a certain warmth burst in your stomach. 

“I’ve got just the idea then.” The boy stands from the swing and it sways the slightest bit from the sudden movement. He reaches a hand to you, offering to help you up. “Wanna join me, your highness?”

“Sethos, my friend—I trust you, but… is this okay?” You held the ends of its saddle. With a huff, Sethos successfully brings the two horses you got for your 16th birthday out of the stables. Without alerting anyone at that. 

He blows the flame in the lamp, leaving the room dark as you two head out to the streets. “Yes, yes. It’s fine, completely fine.” 

Although, you're not the least bit assured. If your parents catch you sneaking out late at night–without a small group of guards with you–the scolding would last weeks. All Sethos is doing is taking your hand in his, nodding as a promise. We won't get caught, and you won’t have to suffer through their endless yelling.

The sounds of their hooves tapping against the stone floor echoes throughout the streets. It’s a sound you pay no mind to in the morning–especially during events, where there are more horses to count. But at night, everything just seems to be louder. But you push forward, seeing as your little friend is exceptionally confident that nothing would go wrong. Oh, to see the look on his face when he does get caught sneaking out with the heir of the royal family this late at night–it makes you curious. Would he feel guilty, or would he feel playful and try again another time?

“This way,” He whispers, redirecting the two of you into an alleyway. You know this place, you often head through here when you need to reach the gatehouse quickly. 

Which has you wondering, where is he even taking you?

There are not many places in the kingdom that would require you to pass by this specific alleyway to the gates. Well, there are none at all. The gates have only one use, and it’s to exit and enter the walls of your kingdom with ease–so why is he bringing you there with not one–but two horses?

Is he planning an escape? There is that possibility, the only problem being that he never told you in advance–how were you to get clothes and daily necessities without any mora on hand? You didn’t even fill a single pouch with the coins, like what they do in drama plays when the main character elopes with the love interest!

If that’s the case, then is this some kind of proposal? It’s true that you find Sethos attractive–you liked the way he carried himself in conversations… his smile, the way he urges you to do the most random things. Like, five years ago when he asked you to play in the mud with him after a storm. Who even offers to do that as a pastime? Your clothes would’ve gotten stained with the dirt, but he insisted otherwise. 

So he’s seriously asking you to elope with him, this is just insanity!

“Sethos–wait!” You stop in your tracks, holding your palm up to his face when he turns around. “Is there… something you want to say?” 

He pauses for a moment, blinking in surprise. What, had you finally caught on? Did you figure him out, with the way he’s acting right now? Holding your hand, guiding you through the kingdom–gods, he hoped not.

He laughs, “What are you even talking about? Read too many fantasy books?”

“I just–” 

“No, I’m not trying to kidnap you–or anything of the sort. We’re going out to a spot I know that could help you relax.” Sethos takes a few deep breaths, no doubt trying to calm his heart from exploding at that very moment. He puts your hand to his chest, looking at you with those bright eyes of his. “Trust me. I won’t do anything to harm you, your parents would kill me if I did.” 

That, they would. But you don’t say it outloud. Instead, you gently nod your head and he smiles.

“Aren’t there any guards around?” You ask, hiding behind a crate–you can’t say the same about your companion, on the other hand, and the horse you’re with right now. (Her head is peeking over the tall crates stacked on top of another, but she looks adorable doing it.)

Sethos has his arm raised in front of you. “Well, yes. But look closely.” 

You squint as you do, but you see Cyno–the highest ranking knight–lead the other guards stationed by the gates to a game of TCG. It was just a sight to see, truly, you knew Cyno loved playing the card game–but not this much.

You try to hold back a chuckle but Sethos catches on, nudging you with his elbow, his lips curving. 

“Let’s go, before they come back.�� The boy says, holding the lead rope and leading the three of you to the gates. 

“Did you pay Cyno to do this?”

“Maybe.”

The first thing that greets you outside of the kingdom walls is the familiar blow of the cold night wind, the earth's somewhat comforting dirt smell, and the deafening sounds of crickets around you. Sethos helps you up as you hop on your horse, gesturing for you to follow him into the forest. 

The air only gets colder as you move, racing through the trees as Sethos speeds up. If anyone would pass through the woods now, the first thing they would hear is the laughter you two are letting out. One moment Sethos is in front of you, the second you turn he’s already behind you, preparing to scare you.

You slow down when you realize you were all alone. The trotting of Sethos’ horse can’t be heard, and no matter how loud you shout for him, he wouldn’t pop out of nowhere. You thought this might just be an elaborate set up for another scare he was going to give you, but you’re shocked to see that even after a few moments pass by, he still cannot be found.

Great. It’s the middle of the night, you’re stranded in a forest and you have no clue how to get back to the kingdom, and you have no knight with you. You don’t even know how to use a dagger. This is exactly a plot for an assassination, based on the books you’ve read. 

After some seconds of struggling to get off your horse, you pat her back as a thank you. You’re not sure why you did that, exactly, the gesture just seemed nice. 

Then, the sound of rustling reaches your ears.

It was from behind you–as you turned, you saw nothing but bushes. It was quite dark–so except for the moonlight shining on the field right now, you could barely see anything past the trees. Maybe it was just a rabbit, it always is. So you turn,  paying no mind to the potential danger that could lie beyond it.

Suddenly you’re tackled on the ground, rolling over the patch of grass as someone has their arms around you. You’re tense, trying to break free from their hold–but once you had opened your eyes, you found out it was just Sethos who had, once again, scared the soul out of you.

“What is wrong with you?!” You yell, though playfully–you try to get him off, but he wouldn’t budge. Not at all. In fact, he impossibly hugs you tighter.

The boy doesn’t respond, instead letting go and helping you sit. You try to brush off the grass on your clothes, and once you look up, a yellow-orange glow surrounds the both of you. Fireflies. There are about a handful of them around the field, they look like stars from afar, it’s a mesmerizing sight, really. 

“How do you like it?” Sethos whispered, sitting beside you. 

You smile, “It’s beautiful.”

“I’d hope so. I found out about this place when I was out delivering the letters,” He plucks something from the ground, then reaches for your chin. He gently makes you turn to face him, and you notice the orange glow reflected in his eyes as he does. He tucks a piece of your hair behind your ear, placing a flower right on top. “Is it to your satisfaction, your highness?”

The action makes your heart skip a beat–you almost think that the two of you were having a moment until he ruffled your hair playfully and looked away. You don’t answer the question.

“Dehya told me you saw me this afternoon lazing around near the guardhouse,” He muttered, his voice softly muffled since he kept his hand on his mouth. “I was actually chatting with them. A lot of the guards seem to like you now that you’re running around the castle more often.”

“Really?” 

“They kinda look forward to seeing you now,” He hummed, “I guess the same could be said for me… Except–I was first, of course.”

“Oh, so you only liked me now, is that it?” You reached over and poked his sides teasingly, the boy laughed in response, trying to get your hand out.

“No–no! Of course not! I mean… I’ve always liked you, you know? But in like–not in a weird way.” Sethos looks away once again, but you catch a glimpse of the red dusting his cheeks. The boy was a liar, and you knew that. 

He cleared his throat before speaking up once again, trying to clear up the awkward tension in the air.“A-anyway, how’s the banquet preparation going?”

The banquet was the last thing you wanted to talk about, if you were being honest. You came here to relax–not to talk about this again. You groan when you let yourself fall into the grass, Sethos turns his head from the sudden movement. He laughs,  “Well, not a fan of the topic?”

“Talk about something else. I beg.” 

“Okay then,” He reaches for something in his leather bag, he doesn’t take his hand out yet.  “My friend, Tighnari. Oh, not to talk about it again but, you guys should totally invite him–well, his kingdom, to the banquet.”

You roll your eyes when he mentions the event once more, “I don’t think that’s talking about something else.”

“Anyway,” The boy grinned, trying to continue the topic anyway. “He’s a botanist, so he’s great with flowers. One day, he told me that if you pressed flowers, you could get a pretty good bookmark.”

He gives you said bookmark, smiling. “So, here. White roses in resin, since you like to read.”

Your lips curved as you received the box, sitting back up and muttering a thank you.  A singular flower could be seen in the middle, its petals made to look as if it was still blooming. There were a few scattered branches around, and some leaves on the side for decorative purposes. The translucent resin only added to its beauty, it wasn’t too thick–nor too thin, definitely a bookmark you could use for your reading. You struggled finding random objects to mark the page you were on anyway.

“Thank you, Sethos.” You muttered shyly, “You just know everything, don’t you?”

You still held the bookmark in your hands, admiring the details of the flowers–the placement alone is already something to be amazed about. Everything fits perfectly, right to your preferences. You wondered if the flowers itself represent some sort of meaning–Sethos may not look like it, but he says things with hidden hints most of the time. 

“How did you meet Tighnari?” You asked, glancing over the bookmark once more. “You mentioned he was from another kingdom, I’m wondering how you got to know him.”

He leans back, hands supporting his weight from behind his back. “Pure coincidence,”

“Is that so?” 

“Yeah. Cyno and I got assigned to a mission, we were just going to accompany the King and the Queen for their afternoon tea time.” He continued, “Asked Cyno to come with me and walk around, we were bored to death. He refused and just stayed put. I walked around and saw the guy in their garden fiddling with the plants.”

“He was complaining about the placement. ‘The flowers won’t get any sunlight from here, and it’s way too unaligned!’ ” He imitated, you chuckle at his horrible impersonation. 

You smile, “I’d like to get to know him someday.”

“Oh, you should! His skill is just impressive. Once you’re done chatting, you’re bound to know a thing or two about plants.” He grins.

“You know, you always seem to bring people like that into your life.” You say, “People who are really good at what they do. Tighnari with his plants, Cyno with–whatever he’s doing, and you with your… well, everything.”

Sethos turns to look at you, a look of disbelief and playfulness. “What? My charm? Come on, your highness. I’m honored but–”

“No, I meant more with your ability to just… click,  with anyone. You’re not charming, not one bit.” You reply softly, seeing the way he looks almost sad with what you said–even if you knew he was just acting. 

“Okay, maybe add the charm, too. You do have a way of making people comfortable.” 

The boy chuckles, clearly flattered–but deflects the compliment with a shrug. “It comes natural to me, nothing impressive.”

“If you say so. I think otherwise,” You lay back down, looking at the stars. “But you are lovely to be around.”

Sethos is quiet for a moment, looking down at his hands–pondering your words. He had known you for many years now, but still, moments like this are… uncommon. Very rarely does Sethos open up to you, and the reverse. He thinks it may just be the exhaustion letting you speak freely. At the end of the day, you have a reputation to keep up as royalty.

He tilts his head, giving you that easygoing smile of his–a slight red still visible on his cheeks. “Someone’s gotta look out for you, your highness. I know Cyno or the other guards may just be more capable than I am, but–” 

The boy finds a place beside you, laying on his side and turning to face you. “I have certain things that they don’t have. I’ve certainly known you for longer, I think that’s a plus.”

You can’t help but laugh softly, “I’ll hold you to that. Now you must follow me when I go to the market early in the morning.”

“Don’t I already do that?” 

You hum, “Oh, I guess you do. You’re even more fitting, then.” 

A silence, once again fills the air.

“I have much to do tomorrow,” You mumbled, eyes slowly closing with your fatigue. “Will you have some free time during the afternoon? Let’s eat lunch together,” 

“I doubt it’s appropriate for a messenger to be dining with royalty alone.” He says. 

You yawn, subtly stretching your back before rolling over to lay on your back, where you wouldn’t face him. “Don’t worry. It’ll just be like… friends eating together.”

Friends. The word is unfamiliar in your throat–It’s something more than friends, what you two have. Definitely not lovers, despite the feeling you get in your stomach when you see him look at you in a way anyone else couldn’t. You weren’t just friends either–assuming that the softness in his tone whenever he speaks to you was only reserved for you. 

He nods, saying why not?  You smile in response, falling asleep in the bed of flowers. It’s oddly comforting, actually, and quite cozy. You’ve never slept on the ground before. 

“Your highness,” Sethos whispers, checking if you were awake. The sun had already started to rise, and the kingdom was starting to get lively once more as he heard the chatter of the guards just a little beyond the forest. He smiles, realizing you indeed have fallen asleep. He’s glad that you somehow found comfort, even if you weren’t at home. 

He reaches to carry you in his arms, gently raising you up–careful not to wake you when you’re sleeping soundly. “Come on, highness. Hold tight.”

When he reaches to call for the horses, he wonders if you’ve ever stopped to think about what he truly feels towards you. It’s the saddest thing ever, that you don’t know his heart is full of you. He adores you more than words could express–yet you don’t have a clue, only because he never had the guts to tell you, not once. 

Sethos walks towards the kingdom, you in his arms, and the lead ropes wrapped around his wrist. The sun shines on your face, and he wonders if you’re bothered by the sudden brightness, especially after spending the night in the woods. 

As much as you hate it–he’s proud that you’re now the person organizing the yearly banquet. He knows how much you dread the event the day it comes, you hate socializing with people you barely knew. But he wishes that maybe you’ll change your mind this time around now that his friends would be coming along. People from the Akademiya, even if you don’t know them, he’ll be the one to introduce you to the people he also treasures.

Being the future ruler of Vehero, you certainly do have a longer list of responsibilities than he does. Although… he hopes that one day, his name wouldn’t be something on an endless list of chores.

@ knnichs 2023 ﹑ do not repost, republish, translate, feed to ai or modify any of my works. doing so can and will result into me blocking you.

reblogs with comments are INCREDIBLY appreciated! go scream go feral idc i will eat all of them up and run away with a familiarly shaped reblog in my mouth, thank you.

wow this was an eyesore to write. dawg i AM NERVOUS ABOUT THE DIALOGUE THERE ARE SO MANY IM SO SCARED ITS REDUNDANT i hate dialogue i say i hate it. this was so hard to write but i lowkey enjoyed it too (no1 party anthem on loop I WAS SO LOCKED IN) this took so long too .... ong i am GLAD its finally over hell yeah :pray: i MIGHT do a part two (keyword MIGHT) where they finally get together . .. But probably not im too lazy thank you goodnight

[sultanforareason]

Can’t sleep ~ Katsuki Bakugo

It was another night where I couldn’t sleep. Tossing and turning around. I groan as I stand up. A little walk wouldn’t hurt. I make my way to the common room to sit on the couch. I sigh and throw my head back. Theres a sudden sound of somebody approaching. I snap my head to look at them but when I realize who it is I just roll my eyes.

Katsuki Bakugo… of course. He’s in his pyjamas, messy hair. He just stands there. “What are you doing here, idiot.” Its sounds like a threat instead of a question. “Couldn’t sleep..” I answer, not in the mood to fight right now. He then sits down next to me. Manspreading and folding his arms against his chest. He sits close but theres still a fair amount of space between us.

I side eye him. There’s a silence. Neither of us looking at eachother. “Why cant you sleep…?” He suddenly asks. “I don’t even know..” I answer and then ask back. “you..?”. He groans. “none of your damn business.” Damn alright. I roll my eyes. The moonlight just slightly shining enough for me to see something. I look him up and down but still side eyeing so he doesn’t notice. He does look attractive even when he just got out of bed. His messy hair suits him. Ugh whatever.

He’s yawning and even if I dont want him to leave, I say “go to bed, you’re obviously tired, idiot”. I look away to smile. He’s probably gonna get angry now. He for sure doesn’t like to be bossed around. “What did you just say..” I can practically feel him look at me with angry eyes. I look at him and then start smiling. “you’re cute when you’re mad..” I tease him.

“Shut up… I’m not cute..” he looks away. Is he flustered? I grin like an idiot and turn to him. I fake gasp. “Are you blushing..?” I take it even further. He slowly turns to me. “I will kill you..” he mutters and then suddenly i’m being pinned down. His hands gripping my wrists. I start laughing and at the same time, try not to.

“You think this is funny..? You think its funny to mess with me.. stupid idiot..” he starts threatening me and leans closer to my face. My laughter then dies down when I realize the others are still sleeping. Damn he is way too close right now. Suddenly I am aware of our current position. One knee between my legs. “you’re just so easy to mess with.. can you blame me?” I continue.

“Shut up.. I am not easy. You’re just a pain in the ass.” He says and then leans even closer. Our noses just barely touching. He smirks. He is such an ass. He’s doing rhis on purpose. I don’t even know if this means anything to him. It’s probably all just a joke to him. Ass. “Whats wrong? You seem tense..” he says with a smug smile.

“I-Im not tense” FŲCK WHY DO I STUTTER NOW. He leans back now. He is basically staring at me right now. “hmm you look really nervous right now.. what’s there to be nervous about?” He obviously teases. My heart literally HAMMERS against my chest. Can he hear it? Oh man this is so embarrassing. He still stares at me and tightens his grip. Weirdo.

Im not letting him win this. I suddenly wrap my legs around his waist and turn around. We fall to the ground with a thud. It seems to shock him because his grip just slightly weakens. I take the opportunity to now pin his hands down. His eyes wide just for a second. He’s good at hiding his emotions.

Right now he’s the speechless one. Damn never ever would I have imagined to see him like this. “Whats wrong, kat? You seem tense..” I copy his words. His face flushes at the mockery. “You… stupid… extra… get off me!” He says in a low tone. Almost scary… if he wasn’t under me. I giggle. He’d probably rip anyones head off if they dare to do this to him.

I lean closer to him just as he did to me. It feels wrong for him to look up at me. Seeing him so vulnerable damn. This can’t be real. “Weren’t you gonna kill me?” I ask him softly. I let go off his wrists to caress his cheek but he almost immediately grabs my hand and sits up. Mind you I was straddling him so now Im basically sitting on him. My eyes widen. Damn I didn’t expect this.

He’ll deffo kill me now. His eyes show anger, I gulp. Then notice that his hands are around my waist. Were they there ever since he sat up? Ugh I cant even think clearly. I swear I just saw him look at my lips for a brief moment. Is this real? It can’t be. He’s probably just tired. “kat…?” I softly call out. The silence killing me.

His expression still angry.. but also something else? I can’t quite describe it. “…yeah…?” He basically breathes out. Damn that was hot. ‘Just kiss me idiot’ my mind screams. And as if he could hear it, he roughly grabs my chin. He presses his lips onto mine and tilts my head for his liking. My hands on his chest. Is this a dream? Is hot-head Bakugo actually kissing me right now?

We pull apart and I start grinning like an idiot.

“stop.. stop smiling like that, nerd”

_____

this seems rushed sorry

[once-in-a-blood-moon]

It's All About Intention

Solomon x GN! reader

Summary: You ask Solomon's opinion on what color you should paint your nails, and learn something new along the way.

AN: This is dedicated to @nnnneeev for being such sweet friend to me. Love you!! 💜 Anyways, hope everyone enjoys! Mwah!

Warnings: None

The soft pads of socked feet march through Cocytus Hall in search of something – or someone. The ever perceptive sorcerer who lounges in the common room grins to himself, lazily licking the tip of his finger to help turn the page of the tome he’s reading. He knows you too well, and by the sound of your footsteps, you’ve got something on your mind.

“Hey, Solomon,” you say as you pass through the threshold, “I need your opinion on something.”

Just as he thought.

He marks his page before closing the book, focusing his attention on you as approach with a little box in your hands. He recognizes it as he’s seen that box in your room, yet the contents within are eluding him.

“I’d be happy to assist you in any way I can,” he says with a genuine smile. “What’s on your mind, my dear?”

You sit next to him on the couch with the box in your lap. With a soft sigh, you begin to explain your dilemma. “I can’t decide on what color to paint my nails...”

You peel the flap of the box back, opening it, as Solomon leans over and peeks inside to see many different bottles of nail polish in the ultimate ROYGBIV categorization. A soft whistle blows past his lips; he’s impressed by how pleasing it is to look at. He knew you painted your nails often, but it dawns on him just how many bottles you own. You’re like him with books, except for you, it’s nail polish.

“I’ve never realized you had quite the collection. I think you might give Asmo a run for his money.” he says with a chuckle.

Your eyebrows raise, obviously not believing that statement. With a quick shake of your head and a chuckle, you reply. “Oh, no. I don’t think anyone could beat him with his many shelves of high-end nail polish.”

Solomon hums. “You’re right,” he strokes his chin in thought, “you’re about two hundred bottles off.”

That earns him a light smack on the arm as you both laugh.

“Shut up.”

“If I shut up then I can’t give you my opinion, sweet apprentice of mine.” He’s got that shit-eating grin again, never missing an opportunity to tease you. It’s his favorite past-time.

You huff out in faux annoyance, even going so far as to roll your eyes. You’re lucky he finds you so cute when you do that, he thinks. Otherwise, he might’ve been offended.

“Fine, fine. Just tell me what you think.” You scoot the box further down, now resting it on your knee so he’s drawn to its focus once more.

Solomon’s eyes flick over each color with intensity. He’s really giving this some thought. “Well, is there anything you want to come out of this?”

Silence settles between you, and for a second he thinks you didn’t hear him. That is, until he glances up to see you with the most dumbfounded expression as you stare right back at him.

“Uh, yeah? My nails to be painted?”

It seems he wasn’t clear with his wording. Though he does get a hearty laugh out of your response. “No, no. That’s not what I meant. I mean...do you have something you want to manifest?”

Your expression stays the same, the only change is a few hard and confused blinks. “What does this have to do with painting my nails?”

“Well, everything really. Painting your nails using a certain color can attract that which you seek. I’ve taught you that using different colored candles in spells can aid in what you bring in, right? So, the same thing applies here.”

Solomon can see the wheels turning in your head now. He thinks this is a good lesson to be taught – that magic requires innovation and that magic is in everything.

“Really?” you ask.

“Really. So, if you wanted to strengthen your intuition, you might use a shade of blue. If you wanted to boost your creativity, you could use yellow,” he pauses before a grin curls on his lips again, “and you could use pink to attract love.” His eyebrows wiggle in a suggestive way, making you laugh a little.

“Okay, okay. I think I get it. Though I didn’t realize that I could incorporate magic into painting my nails.” He watches you look over your precious box with a certain glint in your eyes. He loves that look, that giddy sparkle when you learn something new. You’re too precious for your own good.

“My adorable apprentice, magic is in everything. All you have to do is show up with intention.”

“Intention,” you nod as you remember him saying that during one of your first lessons. “It’s all about intention, yes, I remember.”

Solomon chuckles. “Good.” He digs into the box, pulling out a little bottle filled with a deep indigo. “How about painting them indigo...to remind yourself you are capable of anything you put your mind to, especially within the realm of magic. You are more than capable of becoming a wonderful sorcerer someday.”

To your surprise, he leans over and places a soft kiss on your cheek before adding, “I am so proud of you.”

His eyes soften as he watches your cheeks heat up with one word coming to mind; precious.

“So, is there any chance I could get you to paint my nails while you’re at it?”

You clear your throat as you try to choke the fluster down. “Sure, but it’ll cost you.” you grin as you tease him back.

“You’ve been spending way too much time with Mammon, he’s rubbing off on you in the worst way.” Solomon rolls his eyes, chuckling again.

“I’m kidding!” you snicker. “Anyways, what color were you thinking for yourself?”

He pretends to think as he eyes a certain color in the box. “Hm, how about pink? I have something I want more of…” he wiggles his brows again, smirking widely, “your love.”

[imtryingbuck]

Oh, He Cheated

~ gif not mine credit goes to owner ~

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x fem!Reader

Summary: Reader walks in on her boyfriend cheating then confessions are made

Word count: 919

Warnings: angst? fluff? ima say both, idk. stds are mentioned, swearing, somebody gets punched, and I think that’s it – oh a protective bucky

Masterlist

Walking into your apartment, you come to a halt. You hear noises of pleasure. Looking into your bedroom you see your boyfriend of 3 years having sex with your best friend. You should be devastated of the betrayal, but you simply can’t however you do have to stifle that booming laughter from clawing its way out. You just walk back out the door quietly shutting the door and head back to the tower. 

You work for Tony as an “assistant” more like you get paid a ridiculous amount of money just to make sure Tony eats and drinks and not sleep in his lab. Curtsy of Pepper. Both look at you as their daughter which is great as you don’t have a good relationship with your parents. You absolutely adore them and the team. They are your family. 

Speaking of family, they’re all sat in the common room talking about something you can’t quite hear. Sam’s the first one to see you, smiling wildly he then looks confused. “What you doing here sugar mama”.

“Yeah thought you headed home”. Comes the voice of your red headed friend Natasha.

“Oh yeah um I walked in on Joe fucking Stacey in my bed so thought I’d come back here, didn’t want to disturb their romp”. You say it like it’s nothing, and if you’re completely honest it’s true. It doesn’t bother you that your boyfriend is sleeping with your best friend.

It’s not the first time he cheated, it happened once and he told you afterwards apparently the guilt got to him. That was a lie, the other woman found out about you so she blackmailed him to tell you. Ever the fool you forgave him he promised not to do it again. You found out about him and Stacey two months ago when Stacey gave you her phone to look through a photo of you two and that’s when you found the videos of them going at it. Then that night whilst he was passed out next to you, you went through his phone to look at his messages between them, they’d been sleeping together for 3 months, he needed his needs to be met and ever the desperate mess she is she let herself be the other woman. You had been busy everyday with the team rebuilding the tower after the latest attack so naturally sex was the last thing on your mind. At first it hurt because she’s been your friend since you were little and you were very much in love with him but now you find it funny. Funny because she told you three months ago she had STDs. He obviously doesn’t know. And that’s why it’s hilarious.

You tell your family this, they’re angry. But you told them you didn’t care anymore the only reason why you was still with him was because of the lease of your apartment. You told them that every time you saw him you wanted to laugh. And that it didn’t matter anyway as you was in love with someone else.

Tony being Tony had already got in touch with your apartment manager to get you off the lease then an hour later you’re back at your apartment with your family behind you. Walking in you see Stacey still there, she smiles at you but you don’t give the gesture back. “Hey boo I just got here wanted to see if you wanted to g-“ her sentence is cut off by Natasha slamming her into the wall. Nats never been a fan. Joe stands frozen looking confused as everyone starts packing your stuff for you, he pathetically attempts to talk to you but gets cut off by Buckys metal fist to his mouth. The team don’t even bat an eye to it but you’re slightly taken back by the punch.

“You ever go near her again or even look at her I will kill you. Try and talk to her I will kill you. Do you understand?” Bucky growls “do you understand”. He shakes Joe by his shirt.

“Yes yes I understand!” He then looks at you “baby what’s this about” he spits the blood out of his mouth.

You look around checking your stuff is gone before you step over to him and Bucky. “If I was you I’d get yourself checked, she’s riddled with stds” Nudging you head in the direction of your now ex best friend. “Oh also the moans she was letting out an hour ago was fake. Your little pecker isn’t great. Ok bye bye” You laugh as you hook your arm with Bucks left one and all of you take your leave. 

Later that night you’re on the rooftop admiring the view when you hear someone clearing their throat behind you. 

“Hey I didn’t mean to startle you” 

“You didn’t Buck” 

“So I um who’s the person you’re in love with?” 

“You” Why did you just admit that god damn it now he’s goin-

He kisses you. The kind of kiss that’s full of love and passion the kind that takes the wind out of you. “I’m in love with you too”. His voice is raspy before you can speak he’s talking again “will you go on a date with me?” You can’t vocalise your reply so you nod enthusiastically.

Tony finds you both the next morning curled up asleep on the couch, covering the two of you with a blanket he had in his hand he can’t help the smile on his face. 

~ banners credit goes to @sweetpeapod ~

[mountainrusing]

Lily now called him James Potter. If he were a bottle, he’d be shards pierced through Mary’s clenched fists. But he was not a bottle, instead he was dancing with Lily, pressed against each other and giggling in the corner of the Gryffindor common room. What did Lily even see in him? He was the resident arrogant toerag, right? When did that change? Obviously, this was a ploy to make Mary jealous. To make her regret her choice in giving Lily up.

It wasn’t a choice.

And it wasn’t working.

Once again, Mary took a large sip from the bottle of Firewhiskey dangling between her fingers, wishing it were James so she could strangle the neck and watch the blood fall from his stupid face as he spluttered for air. The glasses would pop off his head as it ballooned and floated away into the clouds, where he’d be kicked like a football by birds’ beaks because he was a stupid piece of dragon’s dung.

Tearing her gaze away, Mary scanned the room for something better to do, someone better to do, she’d really appreciate that, if they could touch her body and make her feel good, so far only Lily and Gideon and Benjy and Edgar and Fabian and Kingsley and… quite a few, actually, now that Mary didn’t… now that she didn’t have a best friend anymore. She realised she was fine with anyone who wasn’t Mulciber. When she wanted them to touch her. When Lily was spending meaningful time with James, so Mary had meaningless flings with a whole host of boys, keep them coming, she’d learn the way of life eventually. They did make her feel good. (Not as good as Lily.) Kingsley was Black. (Why did that matter?) But he was a pureblood. (Everything mattered.)

By the window, Remus Lupin was also miserably moping over a bottle. What was interesting about this was the direction of his gaze, following it, landing like a bull’s eye on Lily and James. Two bull’s eyes, both his eyes were glassy yet focused, huge planets orbiting this heavy mass, a boulder on their shoulders, two lovers sharing secrets in the corner.

Mary shoved towards him. He didn’t notice her shifting closer, next to his ear, drawling, “In love with Lily, are we?”

He startled, whipped around to face her, bottle slipping from his grip. Mary caught the bottom, pushed it back into his hands, surveyed his flushing cheeks, frazzled hair, parted lips, before uttering, “Or is it James for you?”

“I don’t—”

Waving him off, Mary rambled, “Fine, not in love, how ‘bout… ‘feeling affection towards,’ how about being… attracted? I’m attracted to Lily, and you are…?”

Remus shook his head, hair falling into his eyes, fist tightening around the bottle as he raised it to his mouth and drank long and deep, draining almost half. When he finally stopped, he scrubbed his lips, and in an overly-polite tone, he requested, “Please leave.”

Mary laughed. It bubbled up her throat, “Such a gentleman, Lupin.” Nudging his hip with her own, “Tell me how you really feel.”

Clenching his jaw, Remus shot a glance at Lily and James — James, he was looking at James — and let out a long exhale, smiling with closed lips, “I’m fine, you?”

He was so basic. Generic. Standard question, standard response, end conversation. He was self-constructed to be as unnoticeable as possible, a people pleaser fading into the background; nothing with him was ever real. It was always an unattached voice and a civil nod, hunched shoulders, better not seen, better not heard, mundane mask plastered over his face, over his entire body, in the way he held himself, ask Remus no questions and he will tell no lies.

Mary took the bait, pushed, “But neither of us are really fine, are we?”

— extract from

she’s Black, she’s Broken, she’s Beautiful

[hamiltonfc]

.𖥔 ݁ ˖⋆⭒˚｡⋆ MOTH TO A FLAME; JUDE BELLINGHAM (Chapter Two)

➤ Summary: Surprisingly, Jude and Noah seem to be getting on well, until Noah does something to get in Kaia's bad book.

➤ Pairing: Jude Bellingham x F!OC

➤ Warnings: Swearing, Food mention.

➤ Discussion tag: #my works: moth to a flame (if you ever have any questions about the story, release schedule, etc. my inbox is always open.)

➤ Word Count: 3,171

TAGLIST | SERIES PLAYLIST | SERIES MASTERLIST

Kaia’s POV

“And this is Jude. My best friend.” Silence hangs in the air for a short while after the introductions. My stomach is tied in a knot while I watch Jude take in my new boyfriend. If it were a stranger perceiving Jude, they’d probably say he’s happy to meet him and that he’s happy for his friend. But I’m not a stranger. His body language, the slight strain in his jaw from the way he’s gritting his teeth and the way his eyes quickly flash to mine tells me everything I need to know.

Jude extends his hand in Noah’s direction. “Hey,” he says while Noah’s hand also leaves the side of his body, grasping Jude’s. “Nice to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you, too,” Noah says, quieter than how Jude said it, nerves an obvious thing he’s feeling. The last time Noah came over, and met my family, I knew he had been really nervous, and rightly so because he knows how much my family means to me. But, when it comes to Jude, I had spoken about him so much, about how we had known each other our whole lives, grown up together. Noah knew that Jude meant just as much to me as my family did. However, there was something else about Jude that didn’t threaten Noah, I don’t think (it had threatened other guys in the past), but there was the small fact of Jude being the man in my life. Jude was Noah’s competition, even though I’d told him he had nothing to worry about in the romantic department, and he believed me, Jude’s status in my life was something for Noah, or any other person who wanted to be with me forever, to reach for.

“Oh, hi, Noah,” my mum walks into the room, carrying two plates of food. “Right, these two are for you,” she nods her head at me and Noah so I promptly take my seat across from Jude, as Noah moves to sit right beside me. “Jude, William will be in in a second with your dinner. He’s currently making sure you both get a couple of extra Yorkshire puddings,” Mum flashes Jude a smile. If there was one thing my dad and Jude had in common it was how much they loved my mum’s Yorkshire puddings. Actually, I’m convinced they are the reason my dad decided to marry my mum in the first place. 

“You know me so well,” Jude says and it’s then that I see Jude’s first genuine smile since Noah walked through the door. But it’s no surprise because Jude has always been like another son to my mum, he always has a smile for her.

****

 “So, Jude,” Dad says when we’re all finally seated and eating. “Are you enjoying it in Madrid?”

“Yeah,” Jude brings his hand up to cover his mouth, pausing his speech while he finishes his food. “It’s great, barely any rain, and the football’s obviously amazing.”

“You know,” it’s my turn to speak now. “These two,” I wave my fork between my parents. “Literally never shut up talking about you. “Like God, forbid we ever see someone we know when they’re out in town because they’ll get a good old rant about how well you’re doing and how proud they are of you. No, but, honestly, I’m starting to think they’re prouder of you than they are of me,” I let out a laugh, everything I said in jest.

“Oh, don’t be silly. But, of course, we’re proud of you, Jude, you know you’re a part of this family,” Mum says. It had always been inevitable that Jude would be part of our family. My mum had been best friends with Jude’s mum, Denise, for years before they even considered having children. So when they did eventually have kids, they became like bonus children for both of them. 

I felt, though, when Mum mentioned that Jude was a part of our family, an awkwardness coming from beside me in Noah’s chair. And although I knew Jude appreciated the comment, and knew that he loved my family just as much as they loved him, I could also tell that he was sensing the same thing I was when I caught his eye.

“So, uhm, Noah,” Jude said, clearing his throat, right before taking a sip of his drink, his attention shifting to the man next to you. “How long are you in England for?”

“Oh, erm, I fly back tomorrow,” Noah nodded, shooting a tight-lipped smile Jude’s way. 

Jude nods. “So, did you like working with our Kai, then?”

“Kai?” Noah furrows his brow, turning towards me and tilting his head to the side in question.

“Yeah,” I sigh. “He’s always been the only one to call me that.” I shrug. My whole life everyone had just opted to use my full name, apart from Jude, who had insisted on calling me Kai pretty much since the moment he could talk. “It annoys me when anyone else calls me that.”

“Oh,” Noah squints his eyes, puzzled, but turns back to just nonetheless. “But to answer your question, Jude, it was great working with her.” 

“Look at that,” Jude points a Noah, but shifts his gaze back to me. “You come with rave reviews and everything.”

I laugh, but Noah’s the one to speak. “I feel like everything I saw about her before we worked together was a rave review, you don’t get called one of the best actors of our generation without doing anything great, do you?”

“Well, I could give her a few reviews just based on her personality, and, let me tell you, not many of them are that great,” Jude smirks are you, bringing his arms up to his chest when I reach over the table to smack him. 

“Oi, watch it,” I can’t help but smile at the pair of them as I slump back in my chair. Watching the two of them interact settled my nerves a little. It was almost a given that anyone I invited into my life had to like Jude. Whether it was a boyfriend or a new friend, my loyalty would always be to Jude over anyone, probably until the day that I got married, so it was better to just make sure that they liked him. Why would I want to know someone who disliked my best friend, someone I’d loved my whole life, anyway?

While Jude and Noah got to talking about everything acting and Jude’s football career, I chose to speak to my parents about my next job, which was starting in February, and my summer plans that would follow. Jude overheard the last part of my conversation, “Are you coming to the Euros? You’ll have wrapped by then, yeah?”

This year’s Euros would be Jude’s third international tournament, and seeing as though I had proudly supported him at the last two, I didn’t see why I wouldn’t be going to this one, too. 

“Well, that depends,” I placed my knife and fork together on my plate, signifying that I was done. “Are you going to get me free tickets?” I raise my eyebrows at him. 

“I’ve already added your name to the family and friends list for tickets, don’t you worry,” Jude tried to wink at me but instead ended up doing a confused blink, to which I let out a giggle. “I can also get tickets for you four as well,” Jude nods towards the rest of my family. “You won’t be in the friends and family section, but I can see what I can do.”

“Thank you for the offer, Jude, darling, but me and Will won’t be able to get any time off work, and these two will still be in school. But we’ll be cheering you on from our living room; there’s no doubt about that. And depending on how well we’re doing, we might book some time off for the final, just in case,” Mum winks at him before pressing a kiss to his temple after she’s gotten up to collect everyone’s plates. 

“Don’t listen to her, Jude,” Olivia spoke for the first time since we sat at the table. “I want a ticket to every game, and I mean every single game. I’d do anything to miss a month of school.”

“Don’t be silly, Olivia, you’ve got your GCSEs,” Dad looks up from his phone where he’s most likely scrolling through Twitter, looking at Sky Sports News or something in that vein.

“That’s exactly why I want to go, Dad. So Jude, can you get me tickets?” She turns her body fully towards him, exaggeratedly fluttering her eyelashes at him. 

“You know, Liv, as much as I’d like you there, you really should listen to your dad. Even I had to do my GCSEs,” Jude tells her. 

Olivia scoffs, stands from her chair, and in doing so nearly knocks the thing over.  “God, why’s it only Kaia that ever gets to do fun things?”

She’s halfway up to her room before I get to properly reply but it doesn’t stop me from calling her a sore loser. “Perks of being your biggest fan, I guess,” I shrug at Jude, a small smirk on my lips. “Oh, hey, speaking of the Euros, it completely slipped my mind that you’re working in Germany at the same time, aren’t you, Noah?” I turn to look at him. 

“Oh, yeah, I’m shooting that show in Berlin,” Noah nods. 

“So you’ll be able to go to a few games, then?” My dad looks up from his phone, dragged out of his trance and into the conversation. 

“Maybe,” Noah says. “Not sure how much free time I’ll have, but hopefully I’ll be able to get to a couple.”

“If Kaia has anything to do with it, you’ll be going to every single one that’s played in Berlin,” Noah laughs, nodding as he admits defeat, knowing my father is very much correct. It’s a habit of mine to drag people to football matches, even if they’re not the slightest bit interested. 

While my dad and Noah talk some more about his job in Berlin, I notice Jude shuffling around in his seat out of the corner of my eye. I could just take it as him being uncomfortable after being sat down for almost an hour, but the way he’s looking at my dad and Noah through his lashes, his chin practically against his chest, tells me otherwise. 

“Right, why don’t you kids go hang out upstairs or something while I help clean up this mess?” Dad moves to grab the remaining glasses that are left on the table while Jude, Noah and I get up to go upstairs. 

When in my bedroom, Jude immediately goes to sit at my desk, and I can tell that he’s preparing himself for a potentially awkward situation. His hand rests on the wooden surface, tapping away and I know it’s only a matter of time before he pulls a pen out of the pot so he can fiddle with it. 

I go to flop on my bed, grabbing my childhood teddy that I bring up to rest on my chest. Noah claims his spot beside me, in a much more graceful manner. 

“So,” I say, breaking the silence before it could take over the room. “You wanna watch a film or something?” I look between the two guys in my room, a questioning look on my face.

“Um, yeah, sure,” Jude says. “How about w-”

“Stop right there,” I say, sitting up abruptly. “Before you even ask, no I’m not sitting through Pulp Fiction again. Like yeah, Uma Thurman’s hot as fuck, but she’s also only in it for like ten minutes, so what’s the point?”

“Whoah, I wasn’t even about to say that, dickhead,” Jude annoyingly shakes his head at me while he tosses a rubber in my direction, narrowly missing my head. “I was actually going to suggest that Noah picked what we watched, so, you know, it could save the arguing, and then you started yelling at me anyway.” 

“Oh, okay, good idea,” I turn towards Noah. “Is there anything you’d like to watch, Noah?”

“Hmm, that’s a hard choice,” Noah says, a deep-thinking expression on his face. “I think I’d like to watch Pulp Fiction.”

Jude burst out laughing and I feel my face drop in agony at the thought of watching it again. I’m genuinely about two seconds away from punching my boyfriend right across the face.

“Oh, Kai, you should see your face. Nice one, Noah,” Jude’s holding his stomach at this point. 

“What?” Noah says when Jude calms himself down. “I’ve never seen it.”

That’s the moment both Jude and I stop what we’re doing, turning to face Noah with, what I can only imagine are, the most shocked expressions the two of us could muster. 

I let out a laugh of disbelief before finding the words. “You what?”

“Did I hear you right?” Jude pipes up as well. 

I’ve never seen Pulp Fiction,” Noah repeats, causing me to lay back down, simply staring at the ceiling while I try and get over my shock. 

“An actor who’s never seen Pulp Fiction, well I never.” I raise a finger in the air when I’ve had about ten seconds to process the mindblowing news. “You know what I think we have to do, Jude?” I sit up on my elbows so I can look at him properly. “Pop his Pulp Fiction cherry.”

Jude nods as soon as the suggestion leaves my mouth. “It’s only right.”

“Pulp Fiction it is then,” I’m just about to get up from my bed to grab the DVD, when the door of my bedroom bursts open, with a boisterous seven-year-old on the other side.

Leo immediately rushes over to the side of the bed Noah is at. “Hi, Noah, would you like to come and play Roblox with me?”

The look on Leo’s face is adorable. His big, brown eyes look at my boyfriend with so much adoration, even though he’s only met him once before. But Noah doesn’t seem to like Leo as much as the young boy likes him. 

“Oh, I- uhm,” Noah, fidgets, barely making eye contact with him, while I watch on with furrowed brows. “I don’t know how.”

“Well, that’s fine, I can teach you,” Leo bounces in excitement on the balls of his feet. There’s nothing in the world that makes him happier than when he’s playing Roblox.

“Well, I don’t really want to,” Noah says bluntly, leading to Leo’s face dropping, a little pout forming on his lips. 

“Oh, okay,” Leo says sadly and I can tell by the sound of his voice that he’s getting choked up. 

He’s about the leave the room when Jude stands up and walks over to him. Getting on one knee in front of him, he places his hands on the small boy’s shoulders. “Hey, I’ll come and play with you, yeah? we can play that one we were playing last time that you kept beating me at.” Jude picks Leo up, throwing him over his shoulder, causing him to giggle louder than ever. It’s a giggle that can be heard all the way down the hall until they get to Leo’s bedroom. 

My room is silent for a while, allowing me quite a bit of time to think about what I just witnessed. The only thing I can think about, though, is that I didn’t say or do anything while Leo was in the room with me. I should’ve done something to make sure he didn’t get upset, not even a little bit. 

After a little more time, I say, “What the fuck was that?” I turn to Noah, who has barely moved since Jude and Leo left the room. 

“I don’t know, he says, eyes failing to meet mine. 

“That’s not good enough, Noah, you almost made him cry because you didn’t want to play with him. He’d be really upset if it wasn’t for Jude being here,” I let out a sigh. It was bad enough thinking about seeing either of my siblings upset but seeing Leo’s face for that short moment that he thought no one wanted to play with him was heartbreaking. 

“I’m not good with kids, okay?” I have no idea what to do with them,” Noah says, raising his voice a little.

“Then just let him down easily, then, there was no need to be rude. He’s seven, Noah. He only wanted to play with you, you’re never going to get good with kids if you’re never willing to spend even ten minutes with one,” I scowl at him, mad with him for what he did to my little brother. “You know, it’s probably better if we call it a night, I’m quite tired.”

Noah nods. “Okay,” he gets up from the bed. “I’ll see you after Christmas, I suppose,” he leans down to press a kiss to my lips, which I accept, kissing back gently, but he knows that I’m still pissed off at him and that I’m probably going to be like that for a while longer. I shift my body to get off the bed. “It’s fine, I’ll let myself out.”

“Okay,” you nod. “Night. Merry Christmas.”

“Yeah, Merry Christmas,” he says, closing the door behind him on his way out. 

I fall back onto the bed, once again finding peace against my duvet, a sigh falling from my lips being the last thing I remember before I slip into a deep sleep. 

****

Jude: You okay Sleeping Beauty?

Kaia: God when did I fall asleep? Kaia: Also why are you still up? It’s 3 am.

Jude: About 7:30ish. Jude: And I’m not tired but I also wanted to make sure you were okay.

Kaia: I’m doing fine. Kaia: Just shocked me a little that’s all. Kaia: Was Leo okay when you were playing with him?

Jude: Yeah but he did ask why Noah didn’t want to play with him so I just told him that he knew I wanted to play with him instead. Jude: But what he did was really fucked up.

Kaia: I know. Kaia: I'm glad he’s not really upset about it though. Kaia: And thank you for saying what you did. I think I’m still going to take him out for ice cream or something tomorrow tho just to make sure he’s okay.

Jude: No problem and yeah that’ll be good for him. Jude: So did he just leave?

Kaia: no I said it’d probably be best if we called it a night. Kaia: I made it clear that I was pissed at him so that’s why I think he was so fine with leaving early.

Jude: You did the right thing he can’t talk to a kid like that without knowing that he did was wrong. Jude: Anyway I’m off to bed. See you on Christmas day. x

Kaia: Yep, goodnight. x

Taglist: @eunoiasgoal @4evermyownmuse

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[thewayuarent]

Boston and Ray deserve each other

In a very positive way

I have a theory that if we’ll think about this friend group in a long-term perspective, Boston and Ray have the best chances to keep their relationship and grow up to an actual friendship. Let me explain.

Boston and Ray, while being very different, have a lot of common traits. And what differ them from the other two in this friend group, is that both Ton and Ray are people who constantly judged by their surroundings (and society) for their behavior - Boston is a slut, which is bad for some reason, and Ray is a suicidal alcoholic, which makes him a burden in everyone’s eyes.

And that makes them outcasts from their perfect, level-headed, proper friends Mew and Cheum (seriously fuck them both I’m so sorry I tried my best). So I believe they have at least some level of mutual understanding. It’s not coincidence that Boston was the one who was responsible for taking drunk Ray home. It’s not coincidence that Ray was the one who listened about all Boston’s who’s and how’s. They may not be very much supportive of each other, but they know they don’t have a right to judge the other also.

The thing with these two, in my opinion, is that while they don’t necessarily judge other’s behavior, they know very well what’s other weak spots are. And they know how and when bring it to the table. Boston outed Ray in frond of Sand? Ray does the same shit with Boston in frond of Nick! Do I believe that Ray actually judges Boston for his sex adventures? No. But I know, and Ray knows, how it will look like in other’s eyes.

And don’t get me wrong, those two love seeing each other miserable. Boston fucked up Ray’s attempt to get a new start with Sand just because he was feeling like this. Because Ray in his eyes is, well, pathetic with his whole being in love with Mew situation. And did my boy enjoyed it.

Same way Ray is very much enjoys the view of Boston being screamed at by Cheum. He’s absolutely having fun.

But. But they still have a level they won’t step over. The bar is very low, but it’s here.

Because when Ray is on his lowest point, crushed by cops while Cheum screams at him (about the same thing Boston previously laughed at), Boston doesn’t have fun anymore.

Because when Cheum (why is it always her) tells Boston he’s cut off his friends and the project that will cost him his future, Ray doesn’t have fun anymore.

They don’t do anything to help or support each other, obviously, but they are worried. Cheum is angry, Mew is either black out or having the best time of his life, but those two are actually concerned. And I know it’s not much, and it’s absolutely not what you expect from friends, but this is Boston and Ray we’re talking about.

Both of them, very differently, have no idea how to love properly. Because both of them have no idea how to be loved either. They both know their roles - a slut or a burden - they know how people see them and they are used to it. This is why we get constant parallels between BostonNick and SandRay dynamics.

Because when was the last time someone - including themselves - saw them as something more than a number of dirty toxic unhealthy traits?

When was the last time anyone appreciated how talented of a photographer Boston is?

When was the last time anyone told Ray he has good taste in music?

Was anyone there before to not just love them, cause sometimes it’s the easiest part, but to see them, forgive them, be there for them again, and again, and again?

I honestly don’t think so.

And yes, for now they are absolutely not there, but I do believe that they will grow - they’re doing it already. They will learn how to care about others the same way they will learn to accept someone’s love and care.

And for now it’s Nick and Sand, but - baby steps - while they’ll continue their journeys, they will learn to give it for other people. And I would bet on them finding each other again. In a way more healthier place.

[halfmoonshines]

Unrecall

Bucky Barnes x F!OC ((established relationship))

summary: Willow had been an integral part of Bucky’s life for years now; starting as Tony’s assistant after Pepper’s promotion and quickly capturing both Bucky’s attention and heart; their romance was young. Maybe a year under their belt before she disappeared off of their front porch only to reappear two weeks later in the same spot, blood caked to her skin and refusing to wake up. Imagine their surprise when she wakes up with no recollection who any of them were, or where she had been for those two weeks?

Chapter One;

chapter two

chapter three

‿︵‿︵୨˚̣̣̣͙୧ - - ୨˚̣̣̣͙୧‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵୨˚̣̣̣͙୧ - - ୨˚̣̣̣͙୧‿︵‿︵

The overwhelming smell of antiseptic was the first thing that I noticed when I came to. I hated it, that sterile hospital smell gave me a heart fluttering sort of anxiety. Has there been some sort of accident? My mind swirls through possible scenarios while I try to force my super glued eyes open. I take a quick stock of all of my limbs, suddenly noticing an angry ache at the back of my head, like I had taken a stray at a baseball game.

I was becoming increasingly worried about the fact that I couldn’t picture the last thing I had been doing. 

“Her heart rate is spiking a lot.” That voice stilled the little twitches I was doing to make sure everything worked. Familiar, but no name floated into mind. The baseball reference had stuck though and I kept picturing my middle school softball coach.

Doubtful.

“It’s common when people wake up from being put under for an extended period of time. No need to worry about it.” 

“I don’t know if you’ve noticed, Doc, but I don’t think I’m capable of not worrying right now.” The familiar voice spoke from closer now, and I felt something settle at my side.

The urge to look at the men who were talking about me was overwhelming and I was finally able to peel my eyes open, a huff of excited air escaping through my nose. 

The light was instantly assaulting, another thing that I loathed about hospitals, and I squeezed my eyes shut again. At least it was my choice this time.

“Will?” The man spoke again and my eyes were open the next second, scanning the gruff man sat to my right.

I clocked the heart monitor attached to my right arm, but most of my attention was on the dark haired man that looked like he was about to cry.

His stubbled jaw was clenched tight, glacier blue eyes welled to the brim with unshed tears.

My own brow furrowed in response to his obvious upset. “Are you okay?”

He barked a laugh, a hand reaching out to rest on my upper arm. I can’t help but stare at it. Do I know this guy? Obviously I do, and we are in some sort of touching phase. Does he have the wrong room?

My eyes flick from his hand, to his disarmingly earnest face, to the doctor standing behind him with his arms crossed. At least, I assume he’s the doctor that this guy had been talking to a moment ago. Doctor guy seemed to notice my confusion and his head tilts a few degrees to the side, his own gaze going to the monitor that’s displaying my vitals.

“Are you doing alright, Willow?”

The doctor's question confuses me for a minute, because it seems a bit stupid. My skull feels like it's cracking at the base and I have no recollection of why; not to mention the handsome man shedding literal tears over me but I couldn’t tell you his name with a gun to my head.

I flinch, a sudden jerk that I don’t understand. Some muscle reaction? 

The stranger's hand leaves my arm and he looks worriedly to the doctor who is closing the distance between us quickly. A doctor who looked concerned probably isn’t good news, right?

“Willow, can you speak?”

It’s then that I notice I haven’t responded to a single thing they’ve said, too overwhelmed by the blanks in the scene in front of me. The doctor's light is in my eyes the next instant, testing my pupils like that one time I fell off of the swings trying to go all the way around.

These people looked considerably more worried than my dad had, his wry smile reserved for my antics.

“Why isn’t she responding, Bruce? Can she not speak?” My eyes flick back to the hot guy.

“I can speak.”

Bruce put his flashlight down, something in his eyes that feels familiar. “Do you know where you are, Willow?”

My eyes flick around the greater room then and out of the window with some skyline view. I don’t know my cities very well, but whichever one was outside that window was huge. The buildings were easily the largest that I had ever seen.

It struck me that I didn’t have any inkling of where I was.

“No.” My voice was quiet, matching the uncertainty I felt. 

Hot guy scrubbed a hand over his face, taking to pacing a short path in the linoleum. I watched him move, trying to pin the familiar feeling of him.

Bruce was holding a clipboard in his hand, thumbing through different papers. “Her scans were completely normal as far as brain activity goes.”

“Well, thank god for that considering I’m sitting right here.” They both snapped their heads to look at me and a satisfied feeling settled in my stomach. I was the one with the memory issues, they didn’t need to act like I wasn’t awake.

“Do you know what year it is?” Bruce had more questions.

Trying to pin down an answer was like trying to see mountains through thick fog. That haze was terrifying. “No. Why don’t I know that? People know that, right?”

I was on my feet without remembering the action of standing, the yank of the heart monitor on my arm the only thing telling me I was leaving my bounds. I looked down at it, confusion clouding my vision and slipped it off.

“Willow.” Bruce took a step back, sensing that I was about to implode or whatever the medical term was for that, but the hot guy paid no mind to my imminent meltdown. He moves closer, arm coming back out to reach for mine but I jerk away quickly, putting the small bed between me and both of the men.

“We’re all aware that this is super not okay, right?” I could hear the panicked pinch in my voice but I was far from being able to reel myself in. “Why don’t I remember what year it is? I remember that I played shortstop on my eighth grade softball team because it feels like someone beamed me in the back of the head with a practice ball.” My hand ghosted over the back of my head, a dull awareness that there was some sort of injury there. My eyes came up to search theirs, a desperation pulling at me. “I know my name, and that my mom is dead, but I don’t remember what I do for work. Do I work?” The last sentence comes as an afterthought on the wave of sudden grief I have at the thought of my mom. Was this what people in those amnesia movies felt like? Feeling every beautiful and terrible thing that had ever happened to them over again?

Hot guy was on the approach again, my name forming on his lips.

My hand shot up, feet replacing the distance between us. “And you. You say my name with a lot of emotion, you know that? I have this feeling that we know each other but it’s more like maybe we go to the same gym?” There's devastation in his face, then, and my hands come to rub at my own. “That’s not right, is it?”

Bruce the doctor stepped in then, looking a lot more spooked than he was when I first wrested my eyes open. “It seems like you’re having some interesting amnesia, Willow.”

My scoff was rude but I genuinely didn’t care at that moment. “You go to medical school for an apt diagnosis, doctor?”

Bruce’s lips pursed. “I’m not that kind of doctor.”

I was incredulous. “Oh, perfect.” My head gave a pound, wound demanding at least a sliver of my divided attention and I winced. “Why does it feel like someone curb stomped me? Can we start there?”

Hot guy was still standing just a foot away, eyes clouded but only on me. 

“Well, I assume she’s awake since you guys are loud enough to hear on the first floor.” The door is being pushed open by another man with a fist full of roses and sunglasses over his eyes despite the fact that it was very much twilight. Or early morning? I couldn’t tell.

The tension in the room was thick enough to cut and the new arrival caught on quickly enough, discarding the flowers and removing the sunglasses. No one spoke for a moment.

I felt like the steam of frustration in me was going to blow. “Fine, I’ll bite.” My hand finds my hip, the other gesturing to our new friend. “Hi, my name’s Willow and I have no clue who you are but I get the feeling you know who I am.” The new man's brows shooting up to his hairline told me everything I needed to know. “What’s your name, then?”

Bruce spoke up before he could. “You don’t recognize him?”

“Is that not the theme we’re going with here, Bruce?”

The new man's jaw clenched. “Even if you had some kind of head trauma related memory loss, you should still know who I am, considering I’m one of the most famous people in the world. Even if you just recognized me from a magazine cover.”

My scoff must have sounded doubtful because he arched a brow at me. “I recognize Taylor Swift on magazine covers, not random men.”

“You really don’t recognize my name?”

“Maybe I would, if you would tell me what it is.”

Hot guy broke his silence. “His name is Tony Stark, Willow. Even before you met him you definitely heard of him.” His words were clearly meant for me but he only had eyes for the other two men in the room.

“Which means we’re going with the worst option?” Tony said.

“I don’t like the sound of that, boys.”

Hot guy’s eyes met mine. “I think that whoever had you found a way to administer a targeted amnesia agent of some sort, so you only forgot certain things.” He swallowed thickly. “And people.”

Bruce and Tony both nodded their agreement, each taking on their own version of the thinker pose while the room fell back into silence at the revelation and not a single person seemed to notice that my thin grasp onto my tether of sanity had just fully snapped.

My breaths started to come quicker and I could feel myself panicking but how could I not? I couldn’t remember what kind of car that I drove, or who any of these people were who seemed to so intimately know me and not a single person was jumping in to give me any sort of answers. What do they mean whoever had me? What kind of people could infect certain parts of my memory? This was not a James Bond movie.

“Someone needs to start talking, right now, or I might pass out.” My voice is breathy but it’s all I can spare against the panicky heave of my chest.

All of their attention snaps to me but the hot guy moves quicker than I can track and he has his hands around my arms, guiding me back to sit on the bed. I allow it, because complaining about strangers touching me seems to be a bit unimportant right now.

“You need to take deep breaths. You’re letting yourself spiral down the anxiety because you don’t understand. Breathe in for four seconds, and out for four seconds.” I bite back my sarcastic reply and suck a rough breath in, trying to hold it for four seconds before mirroring him and exhaling. My eyes slip shut, the fluttering in my chest settling down and the warmth of his hands on my arm spreading to warm my cold limbs. 

“Good job.”

I open my eyes again and don’t release his eyes from mine. “Please start talking. I feel like this is the worst inside joke ever.”

Tony plopped down beside me, his legs crossing to make enough room on the small bed. “Jokes are meant to be funny, Elm, this is more of a bad prank.”

Hot guy stayed crouched in front of me, keeping his hands on top of mine. “You went missing two weeks ago off of our front porch. You reappeared today.” I was caught on the use of the word our. Did we all live in some weird commune?

“Reappeared?”

His lips rolled together, his brow furrowing and I had the sudden itch to reach out and smooth it. “I got an alert from our security cameras. You just reappeared out of thin air, in the same spot we saw you last. You were,” He drew in a deep breath. “You were bleeding a lot, and had a nasty gash on the back of your head. All of your tests came back fine as far as brain function, and you have some bruises both internal and external but the injury to your head was the worst of it.”

“We had no way of knowing the extent of any kind of mental strain until you woke up.” Bruce added.

“So you think that someone took me and manipulated my memory?”

“It would appear so.”

I felt even more confused than before. My eyes looked each of them over, searching for something to click in my mind. “Who exactly are you guys that you think someone would take me and manipulate my literal mind? Who am I?”

Tony and Bruce looked at the hot guy, noticeably passing the buck to him. Has he told me his name yet? I can’t remember if he did.

“We are categorized as weapons of the state-”

I must look panicked because Tony is quick to intervene with a roll of his eyes. “Dear lord, Barnes, there’s no need to use scary terms.” He turned his body toward me, looking me over for just a second before continuing. “We’re superheroes, like the comic book ones? Comes with some good and some bad, the bad just so happens to be very bad.”

“Are you telling me I’m a superhero?” I don’t feel any kind of power, and I don’t remember any weird origin stories during my childhood.

Tony’s smile was much goofier then. “Oh, no, not you. You’re in a room with them but you’re the odd one out.”

My brows pinch together. “So what we’re all like, best friends? So these people took me as leverage or something?”

Tony clapped a hand against the hot guy's shoulder, who was still curiously knelt at my feet. “That is all you, casanova.”

He suddenly looks like he wants to crawl out of his skin, but his hands stay firm over my own and I can’t deny the comfort that they bring. “You’re my fiance, as of a few months ago.” 

I’m dumbstruck. Hot guy was my fiance? The last man I remember dating was some business major at UCLA in college and this was most definitely not him. 

“Three months and a few days but who's counting?” Is Tony a comedian? Is that why I should recognize him?

My attention is stuck at the man on his knees before me, though. The fog over the mountain is thinning but only in one place and I’m winding my way through it, to whatever my mind is willing to reveal to me at this moment. It’s his name, I’m sure of it, but what I’m gifted with through the haze is more of a phrase than a proper name. My brows furrow further and my lips purse, urging the opening my mind had created to give me something else. An explanation.

“Your gears are turning hard, Will, what are you thinking?” Hot guy asked me, and I had a split second debate if I should say anything. It had to be about him, the words had him all over them; but something deeper told me they were not to be spoken. Not by me. 

What else could I do but tell him?

“Who is the Winter Soldier?”

Hot guy pulls his hands from mine instantly and stands, the cold feeling of regret washes over me as I realize I’ve said something that I shouldn’t. 

Tony mutters a curse as the man who was just on his knees in front of me takes a few steps away like he can’t wait to escape. My confusion is mounting and I find myself looking at the other men in the room for an answer.

“Someone please explain what’s going on.”

Hot guy looks at me one last time before he finally pushes out of the door to the room, the click of it shutting behind him hurting me more than I think it should. 

“Got to give it to them, that is a special kind of torture.” Tony murmurs from beside me, moving to stand beside Bruce.

“It’s twisted, Tony.”

I was standing again. “Explain what just happened to me. Right now.” My voice is barely quieter than a yell, something dark in it I didn’t recognize in myself.

I don’t think they did, either, from the surprise on their faces.

“The running theory is that the people who took you belong to an agency that your lover has been on the outs with for a long time. I really feel like the more intimate details are up to him, but the cliff notes are that he was brainwashed to do some pretty terrible things under a quirky little moniker. I’m assuming the idea of this is to strip your memory and subsequent love of him, just to reintroduce the worst parts first. Control the narrative.”

“So he is this Winter Solider?”

Tony’s gaze hardens. “His name is James Buchannan Barnes, and while a few years ago I would be the last to advocate for him; I encourage you to come with me to find him before this turns into some sort of problem that shouldn’t exist.”

“She should really be resting. There are additional tests to be run now that she’s awake.” Bruce intervened, but his words fell to deaf ears. The name that Tony just said was settling over me like a living thing, bringing an itch to my palms. James Buchannan Barnes sounded very studious, formal, but it was the most familiar thing I’ve heard since I woke up.

I didn’t call him that, I was certain. I called him Jamie.

“Take me to him.” My tone was resolute, and Bruce didn’t try to argue when Tony and I walked out the door, the pounding of my head fading into the background.

‿︵‿︵୨˚̣̣̣͙୧ - - ୨˚̣̣̣͙୧‿︵‿︵ ‿︵‿︵୨˚̣̣̣͙୧ - - ୨˚̣̣̣͙୧‿︵‿︵