#oh you only live just there you've got no excuse to hide then

[deeisace]

Alright. Train home.

I've run out of tags so I best shut up before I cry (again)

[voonroo]

I have an idea! Only do it if you feel comfortable though 🙌🏻 no pressure

Teen reader with Alastor who have this father-daughter bond. Teen reader has never really 'acted out' in a sense. At least not in ways expected of in a sinner. Always had manners, polite, and reserved, yet was always open and honest with Alastor.

Now imagine reader out on the town doing some errands and they overhear a demon talking some nasty crap about Alastor. For the first time, they let their anger get the better of them and get into a fight with the demon. Not without a few cuts and bruises though, poor thing.

Reader not wanting Alastor to get angry or disappointed at them decide that it's best that just this one, they won't mention anything. They'll not tell him this one thing. It won't hurt. He won't know!

Yet it's Alastor. And he always knows. Mainly because they're reading sunglasses inside and trying (failing) to cover up a limp.

Are Ya Winning Child?

⌐‣Alastor & Teen Reader

Want more? Check out the masterlist↩︎

AUTHOR’S NOTE: KSNAKXNSM I HAD SO MUCH FUN WRITING THIS I AM LIVING FOR THESE REQUESTS. I ACTUALLY HAD TO TAKE BREAKS WRITING THIS TO BREATHE. I WAS GENUINELY TWEAKING LIKE ALASTOR WAS THIS LAST EPISODE WRITING THIS.

Alastor & Teen Reader

You had always been one to hold your tongue and watch your actions. To not act out on rashness. That's how you had always been, even before ending up in hell. You had always been known for your good manners, even as a kid and it's only become more solidified in your character as you grew.

Then why was it so hard to not beat the living shit out of the demon in front of you.

There's no way they didn't know you were connected with the infamous radio demon in some way. Maybe they had seen you and him out and about here recently and knew you two had a connection. People are more courageous than ever to question Alastor’s authority since his 7-year absence.

Maybe the demon is just trying to get a rise out of you. Sinners, who were once people, tend to poke and prod at what they don't understand. “How could some random teenage sinner be so close to the radio demon? Maybe they have a deal? The poor soul probably got tricked…” You've heard it all by now.

But, every time someone said something would be in hushed whispers that were easy to ignore. However, it can be quite hard to ignore some random drunkard spouting lies from his lips. And straight to your face too.

“He’s probably got your ass on a leash doesn't he?” and “Oh! If he's so powerful—” There were a few loud noises, maybe a scream or two.

What…? Oh shit.

The walk back to the hotel was not fun. You really should have just ignored him. Silencing him was not worth the pain you had in your leg and the ache you felt. You're pretty sure you got a black eye too.

By the time you arrive, you have adorned sunglasses on your face come up with an idea as to why you have them, and practiced how to hide your limp until you at least got up the stairs.

By telling those who questioned your weird behavior, “Oh someone was giving out free sunglasses they didn't want anymore so I took one.” and walking past your sorry excuse of trying to hide a limp, you finally made it to your room.

However, you didn't have peace for long until a familiar knock sounded at your door. Quickly throwing back on your sunglasses, you heard Alastor’s static voice through the door.

“I heard you arrived back from town just a few minutes ago!” Oh, he's definitely already on your trail…

You walked- well more so limped, over to the door. Signing in defeat before tossing the sunglasses on your bed.

Fuck it, he probably already knows.

Opening the door, you were immediately met with the radio demon himself. His eyes already shooting up and down your figure. From your leg to your black eye.

“May I come in?” It sounded like more of a command rather than a question. Without much thought, you opened the door wider before going back over to your bed and sitting down on the edge. Staring blankly ahead like a guilty child who got caught with their hand in a cookie jar. There's no point in trying to argue that you're fine when you know Alastor will just keep pestering you until you tell him.

Sitting down next to you, Alastor sat with you in silence for a moment. As if giving you the chance to speak up first, but when you didn't he let out a soft sigh before gently cupping your face, turning your head to look at him.

“What happened.” The average sinner would have been scared shitless at his tone, but you were only mildly frightened. However, there was definitely ill intent behind his smile. He knows you didn't just do this to yourself. You had to have a reason, you don't usually act out of line.

“I got into a fight.” His hand dropped from your face as you spoke, his smile growing wider before he let out a chuckle. His shoulders slightly shaking and his eyes closed in euphoria. His next words were clear when he spoke, looking you in the eyes.

“And did you win?”

“Yeah…?”

Another chuckle left his lips, though, it sounded more like a childish giggle. His hand raised again, landing on your head before ruffling your hair. A proud smile on his face.

“Good.”

Word Count: 735

[rizsu]

the aftermath of being turned into an ex jujutsu kaisen — gojo satoru.

gojo's a man of commitment. if rounding up a ‘band’ to serenade you into taking him back is what'll do the trick, then he'll organize it.

+ extra. this is meant to be unserious dont attack me for mischaracterization n shi 😞

“we're done.”

“we are not!”

in the end, he got kicked out. due to the shame he felt by being kicked out of a house he once lived in, satoru actually leaves. don't party too soon though, he's going to come back within five hours.

the plan he had in mind was simple: go to the department store, buy some roses, a poster, led lights, a table, some chocolates, and hire a band. for this the budget will be endless.

you thought you got rid of satoru but little did you know that he still has his share of keys. with that trick up his sleeve, he unlocks the gate, sneaking in everyone and the props.

satoru wasn't able to hire a band, but he was able to get a substitute. you see, todo, inumaki, and yuuji have hidden talents. they can all play instruments and one can sing! he always knew there was a reason why he's proud of his students.

quietly, the four men set the stage that's actually your front yard. in the center holds the white table with a black satin cloth delicately placed on it. the three bouquets of roses sit beautifully on the table. some petals were picked out and carefully spotted as well. on the table's center held the chocolate and wine — your favourite wine, to be exact. the finishing touch is the led lights. they're circling the ground, illuminating it with a soft yellow glow.

at the right and left sides of the table are inumaki and yuuji. inumaki's holding a wooden guitar while yuuji holds the hand drum. todo's position is in front of the table but a little off-center. he's holding the microphone, ready to pour his heart out on the song.

the star, satoru, is the one in the center. one hand hides behind his back. it's holding another rose bouquet with hundred-dollar bills wrapped with the roses. his free hand holds his phone. as soon as the clock strikes 7:00PM, he's going to call you. everything should play out perfectly.

anxiously watching his wristwatch switch from 6:59 to 7:00, he immediately calls you. one, two, three, six rings later you answered.

“you. i forgot to block you.”

“excuse me?” satoru scoffs, “whatever, i'm not calling for that.”

“chop chop then. i don't have all night.”

“can you come outside?”

“no. i will be calling the police.”

“OH C'MON,” he whines, getting desperate. “please? after this i'll leave you alone. promise.”

“...”

yuuji painfully watches. he feels incredibly sorry for his teacher. he doesn't deserve this!

“i don't think this is going good,” yuuji whispers to the boys, moving his head side-to-side.

todo raises his fist, gesturing to the boys to have some faith. “let's put our hopes high.”

they watch satoru closely. his hand that held the phone dramatically dropped to his side. slowly, he turns his head to face the boys behind him. his face breaks their hearts. he's pouting with eyes nearing tears — a pain only males like them can understand!

before satoru can say something, the front door clicks open. as it swings open aggressively, you made yourself tonight's main star unwillingly. you were not dressed for whatever this occasion is. your front yard has been ruined, your ex is there, three of his students you've met a few times, and while they're in suits, you're in a fancy robe with fluffy indoor slippers.

your eyebrows crease together, just when did they do all of this?! maybe it's time to install cameras.

“satoru, what the fuck did you do to my—”

“shh, tonight it's just you and him,” todo cuts you off, switching the mic on and beginning his performance. inumaki tunes the guitar and starts stringing random strings in hopes that they sound good. yuuji follows by tapping a simple “dun-da-da-dun-dun” beat on the drums.

your mouth's now opened. baffled by the sight, you stood there motionless.

“i have died every day waiting for you~”

as todo sings, satoru walks up to you, cheekily smiling at your shocked expression.

you back away from him, eyebrows still furrowed at whatever's going on.

“darling, don't be afraid~”

at this lyric, satoru takes the opportunity to shove his phone back into his pocket and grab your wrist. although you attempted to wriggle free, you are no match for his strength. gently, he pulls you into the yard.

both your eyes lock on each other. you search his eyes for emotions, he searches yours for any signs of longing. it's not there, he thinks. he feels a pinch in his heart, but it won't stop him. sending you a wink, he pulls you closer to the table.

“i have loved you for a thousand years (ooh)~”

“seriously, what's all this bullshit?!” you whisper-yelled at him, using your other hand to point at the table.

satoru simply shrugs.

“i'll love you for a thou-sand more (ooh, yeah)~”

todo ends his singing, clapping along with the other two to end the performance. it was the most touching thing he's ever done besides gifting yuuji and his idol a trio matching keychains set.

satoru coughs three times in attempts to hide his laugh. this has probably been the most unserious yet serious he's ever been, but his perfomance doesn't end there. he still has something else to whip out.

“baby—”

“that's not my name,” you cut him off.

“anyway. as i was saying,” he stops, revealing the rose bouquet with multiple hundred-dollar bills. “all of these are yours.”

your eyes bulge, but you quickly regain yourself.

“i'm not going to be won over with some roses and money.”

“there's wine and chocolates too,” yuuji says, immediately shutting up after you shot him a look.

inumaki stands awkwardly. he feels immense second-hand embarrassment. to counter such feelings, he starts playing the guitar again.

satoru cups the side of your face with his hand. his thumb caresses your cheek as he locks his eyes on yours again.

“i was serious about not breaking up, y'know,” he softly speaks, “i know i'm pushing it and all that stuff but i don't think i can leave you.”

it's once again your turn to be speechless. at this point, you're sure that there's no way all of this is happening in one night.

since you won't take hold of the bouquet, satoru places it in your hand. to solidify it even more, he lifts your other hand to place a kiss on it.

“what level of romance is this?” again, yuuji speaks. this time, it's satoru who gestures him to quiet down.

inumaki's still playing the out-of-tune guitar, enjoying the way the wind gently blows. it's truly a beautiful night. under the full moon's light, you and satoru glow together.

todo gears up for another round of singing. he immediately does a dragged-out “ooh~” adlib. this, however, wasn't going to last as long as his previous one did.

“NO — no more, please. you have a wonderful voice but i've heard enough. please.” you turned around to todo, begging him to mute the mic and possibly himself.

“and you,” you turn back to face satoru, “clean this up, get the boys home safely, and then come back.”

after that, you walked back to inside your house with the bouquet, making it satoru's turn to be left speechless. he still didn't win you over with some roses and money (wine and chocolates too) but his stupid commitment to keeping the relationship is what did.

[ellapurnellmybeloved]

fluff alphabet |clarisse la rue

author's note: Hi lovelies, please send me requests! I don't know what gave me the confidence to think I can write, probably delusion. Also, this is according to my personal views of Clarisse so don't be mad if it's different from what you've imagined. Leave a comment, I love interacting with people, xx.

warnings: I tried my best to keep it gender/race/cabin neutral for the most part but there are still some feminine coded things here and there. English is not my first language so excuse any grammar mistakes.

A ctivities - What do they like to do with their s/o? How do they spend their free time with them?

Starting off strong because with Clarisse sparring is a must. Although she doesn't like to think there will ever come a time in which she won't be there to protect you, it's still an essential part of life as a half-blood. And who better to train you than the daughter of war herself? And in case the apprentice becomes the master and you happen to beat her or pin her to the ground or even hold your dagger to her neck? Oh boy, she's done for. Actual heart eyes.

B eauty - What do they admire about their s/o? What do they think is beautiful about them?

She pretty much loves everything about you, she can't really just choose one aspect. Though, if she had to, she'd probably say she loves you for being supportive, understanding, and patient with her. You understand her better than anyone. That's what made her know you were the one for her. You can control her anger issues and calm her down when she's on the verge of exploding and she thinks that's beautiful.

C omfort - How would they help their s/o when they feel down/have a panic attack etc?

The art of intimacy or comfort never came easy to Clarisse. Her relationship with her mother isn't the best and hasn't been for a while now and her father is a grade A asshole. Her first instinct when you're feeling down is to fix it, to ask you who or what happened and give them a physical piece of her mind, but that's not always how it works. She'll pull you to her lap and hold you through the night or for as long as you need, wiping your tears and kissing your cheeks. She'll let you vent your heart out. You can tell her anything. Or nothing, if you prefer. She's not the best with words but her actions speak much louder.

D reams - How do they picture their future with their s/o?

She's never thought that much ahead if she's being honest. Never allowed herself to daydream too much into the future, choosing to live off the present for now. Sometimes, however, she pictures what could be only described as an utopia; to go on such a fantastical quest that the gods can't help but grant the both of you immortality, that way you'd bask in the glory of your love forever and ever.

E qual - Are they the dominant one in the relationship, or rather passive?

On the outside looking in it would seem Clarisse is the dominant one for sure. And in some ways she is; she likes that you can rely on her, she wants to provide for you, yearns to prove herself capable of such. Still, you're the one in charge. Clarisse is completely devoted to you, and your relationship means more to her than anything she's ever felt before. She cherishes it like no other, always at your beck and call.

F ight - Would they be easy to forgive their s/o? How are they fighting?

Clarisse is intense, that much we know. Her anger runs deep and her passion burns red. She's not perfect, and doesn't try to hide it either. She's hot-tempered, arrogant, she's got a short fuse and she holds grudges. Her fatal flaw is pride, which sometimes gets in the way of her good senses, so you'll most likely be the one apologizing first. Despite all that, she can't bear the thought of you being mad at her and absolutely hates fighting with you. It's like it's tearing her apart, especially if you're sad over something she said or did in the heat of the moment. Truth is, she is a fighter at heart so when all is said and done she'll try and make it up to you in some way, somehow.

G ratitude - How grateful are they in general? Are they aware of what their s/o is doing for them?

She is so appreciative of everything you do and are. As previously stated, Clarisse didn't get much love growing up so any semblance of that is something she clings hard to. She notices everything, every little thing you do for her and the underlying of your words. How you treat her and others is always stored in the back of her mind and she loves to be loved by you.

H onesty - Do they have secrets they hide from their s/o? Or do they share everything?

Clarisse is a very closed off person in general, she doesn't like feeling exposed and being possibly seen as weak. She'll tell you things but there's still some matters you have to pick up on your own and know how to approach them, especially regarding her feelings and personal struggles. She's very honest though, she feels like she owns you that much and appreciates you if you do the same for her. The more your relationship progresses you'll notice being able to read her like an open book because although she does her very best to hide it there's an underlying vulnerability to her behavior in certain moments you'll take proper notice of the more you know her.

I nspiration - Did their s/o change them somehow, or the other way around? Like trying out new things or helped them overcome personal problems?

Clarisse has definitely become more gentle since you. It still doesn't extend to your friends and family but more so how she behaves around you and knowing she doesn't have to put up that though front all the time. Her sense of self worth has improved as well, especially when you reassure her through her insecurities and doubts (never being the son her father wanted etc.)

J ealousy - Do they get jealous easily? How do they deal with it?

Oh, boy. Clarisse’s jealousy is very fuelled by… Well, anything really. She doesn't necessarily need a motive to go toe to toe with someone, just staring at you for a second longer than she deems them worthy of and she's ready for a fight. It's hard for anyone to get close enough to flirt with you because she's always there, by your side, kind of like a guard dog. But only because she knows how amazing you are and her insecurities do blurry some lines on what's acceptable. She's working on it though.

K iss - Are they a good kisser? What was the first kiss like?

Clarisse is definitely a good kisser. She doesn't have much experience, if any, but she's a natural. It sounds cheesy but the first time she kisses you was like butterflies and church bells dancing loudly in the wind. The way she cups your face so uncharacteristically soft and how she breaks off the kiss with a series of small pecks only to smile one of her beautiful smiles so close to each other's faces… Magical. It could be at the fireworks on the fourth of July or it could be in your favorite spot in the woods, soaked in lake water during a midnight swim or after a heated argument. No matter how many times Clarisse kisses you, she'll never not feel electricity similar to her spear’s sharp edge digging into her body and soul.

L ove Confession - How would they confess to their s/o?

Clarisse does not have a clue what she's doing. I feel like she'd say something in the heat of the moment; either confessing her true feelings or masking them by saying something hurtful she doesn't actually mean. In the latter scenario she'd storm off and berate herself over it but her pride and fear that you'd never look at her again made her put off her apology for some time and let it all sink in to talk to you when she's ready. That is until you start properly ignoring her and she nearly goes crazy with longing, just missing your overall presence and having her stomach turn to knots at the way things were left between you two. That's one of the few times Clarisse sucks it up and reaches for you. The apology is awkward but overwhelmingly honest and she tells you she's an idiot but you're content in forgiving her and giving her a second (actual first) chance.

M arriage - Do they want to get married? How do they propose? What would the marriage be like?

Again, Clarisse never thought she'd live to see the day she'd actually have a marriage prospect. Her life just doesn't seem complete without you anymore and the moment she realizes that she's done for. It would probably be while you're laying in bed together, your head on her chest while you play with her fingers. Your eyes are heavy with sleep but hers are wide open, thinking. “Will you marry me?” said while staring into the distance and you probably think she's joking except Clarisse is not one to joke about that sort of thing. “Not now. But eventually.” and whether you ask if she's serious or just accept it right away, she'd look at you seriously for a beat and then tackle you into a bear hug, crushing you underneath her. She doesn't see the point in a big wedding, but if that's what you're into, she won't mind.

N icknames - What do they call their s/o?

She is not immune to babe or baby but would still like to keep some variety. Things like sunshine, gorgeous, angel or others (I'm looking at you, person who created the “mama/s” HC). She does like your name very much, or probably a shortened version of it. Don't expect her to not tease you if any of these make you flustered.

O n Cloud Nine - What are they like when they are in love? Is it obvious for others? How do they express their feelings?

Clarisse likes to think she's good at hiding it when she's absolutely not. As Taylor Swift once said, you can hear it in the silence. Just the way her eyes soften when she's looking at you speaks millions, but people also get whiplash at how fast her mean attitude changes whenever you're around. Her love giving languages are probably acts of service and physical touch. She loves to do things for you, feeling all big and mighty whenever she can make your life just a little easier. Touching is also a must but we'll get to that in a second.

P DA - Are they upfront about their relationship? Do they brag with their s/o in front of others? Or are they rather shy to kiss etc. when others are watching?

Clarisse is not very comfortable with public displays of affection, because she is afraid of being judged or mocked by others for being weak or soft. She prefers to keep her relationship with you private and intimate, but doesn't mind the little things. She does gloat about being with you as well as showing you off, so that everyone on camp knows you're hers. She brags about you all the time and I mean, seriously, all the time. She's not a big hand holder but she almost over compensates by grabbing at your hips and thighs, throwing an arm over your shoulder or hiding her face in your neck. She especially loves bonfires when you sit on her lap and she can hold firmly onto your waist while she's talking to her siblings or just press her forehead against yours when her social battery is low.

Q uirk - Some random ability they have that’s beneficial in a relationship.

She's very perceptive. She may not know what has changed right away but she's also persistent so she'll figure it out in an instant. If it's the way you did your hair or something that happened along your day, even if you change your usual greeting. She notices and she'll definitely ask you about it.

R omance - How romantic are they? What would they do to make their s/o happy? Cliché or rather creative?

Clarisse wants to be loved, that's all she’s ever wanted, and she has so much love to give, therefore I believe she'll do just about anything to make you happy. That includes being an absolute sap. She honestly doesn't mind how cliche it is, if it works on you, you bet she's using it. If anyone cares to say anything remotely negative about you or your relationship she will promptly glare them into oblivion or give them something to really worry about.

S upport - Are they helping their s/o achieve their goals? Do they believe in them?

She is your absolute biggest supporter. Especially if you don't believe in yourself, then she's trying even harder for you to see just how well you can do something if you put your mind to it. With something like sword training she is more than willing to help you, rewarding you with kisses and cursing you for distracting her with your pretty face.

T hrill - Do they need to try out new things to spice out your relationship? Or do they prefer a certain routine?

Clarisse doesn't mind change, she rolls with it. If you have a certain way of doing things, a routine you like to follow, that's fine by her. If you're unpredictable, even better. She just loves to see what comes next in terms of your relationship, not necessarily needing anything to amplify her love for you. It's already hardwired into her.

U nderstanding - How good do they know their partner? Are they empathetic?

She knows you like the back of her hand. Even the slightest furrow of your eyebrows or tilt of your head and she'll be there in a second asking what's wrong. She does learn to be more empathetic towards your own struggles, which was hard at first because she wasn't sure how to see things from someone else's point of view. Though road but you make it work.

V alue - How important is the relationship to them? What is it’s worth in comparison to other things in their life?

She doesn't have much to look forward to so Clarisse values her relationship with you very highly, as you are one of the few people who can see past her tough and aggressive exterior and appreciate her softer and more vulnerable side. She is fiercely loyal and protective of you, and would do anything to keep you safe and happy.

W ild Card - A random Fluff Headcanon.

I actually read this one on a Wattpad story a while ago so credit to the original creator but, Clarisse has a teddy bear named Mr. Muscles she's had since she was like, nine and she cherishes it like it's her most prized possession. When she introduced this piece of information to you, you just found her so incredibly adorable you couldn't contain the giggles and she gets so hot in the face she pushes you off her bed and it's honestly one of the most memorable moments in your relationship.

X OXO - Are they very affectionate? Do they love to kiss and cuddle?

I headcanon Clarisse as your personal furnace as well as a koala bear so kisses and cuddles are a must, especially if it's cold outside. She loves to take naps with you, it gets to the point where she has trouble sleeping without you (so you give her a vial of your perfume to spray on Mr. Muscles for when you're away).

Y earning - How will they cope when they’re missing their partner?

Clarisse with you: 🥰

Clarisse without you: 😡

She gets snappier than usual and easily annoyed but she'll also get really sad because she's never had to deal with being away from you. Her siblings try to cheer her up by shoving some kid's head into the toilet but she's so disinterested in anything that does not involve you she just goes about her days training until she can see you again and show off her muscles.

Z eal - Are they willing to go to great lenghts for the relationship? If so, what kind of?

The answer is yes, one hundred percent. “Touch her and you die” trope goes so hard. Not only that but she would willingly sacrifice the world and herself for you and your relationship. She would go out of her way to make sure you are okay, that you are fed and hydrated and well rested, even messing up her own sleeping schedule in order to take better care of you.

[lillypad910]

So I just read your fic with Big Dick!Billy and I were wondering if you could do something like this with reader being a Cheerleader and a Queen Bee (pretty much like Regina George) and he just put her in her place in public… >///<

Queen Bee

Pairing: King Billy! Billy Hargrove x Queen Bee! f! Reader

Warning: references sex (oral specifically), but doesn't have any smut. Sexual tension is STRONG; very much enemies with benefits vibe. Reader is dating Tommy (helped with the Regina vibe, ok).

Summary: You're the Queen Bee of Hawkins and everyone loves you, except one certain King of the school, Billy Hargrove.

A/n: You didn't specify if you wanted smut or not so I didn't write it for it, HOWEVER, I'm open to writing it if you want me to, Anon! So please let me know!!

You are the Queen of Hawkins High, from your attitude to the way you dress. Every girl wants to be you, every boy wants to fuck you. You are everything.

You smile wide as you finish out the routine, raising your pompoms up into the air for the final pose. You have been practicing all morning with the rest of the girls, well, almost. Nicole hasn't shown up, and practice is already ending.

"Alright! Good job, everyone! You've all done amazing!" Coach Lively smiles at all of you. "You are dismissed for the day, enjoy your weekend!" The lot of you step away, but you stay put, requiring Tina and Carol to come to you.

"Oh! Bev!" You turn to your fellow cheerleader, her red hair tied in a high pony, "that skirt is so cute! Where did you get it? I might have to ask Coach about getting them for the Spring Uniforms!" You smile at her.

Beverly's cheeks go red, the corners of her lips pull up into a smile. "Oh! Thank you! I actually got it from my mom's closet..." She gives a small twirl, which your posy giggle at.

"Ooh, vintage! Love it!" You watch her walk away and turn to the two girls behind you, "That skirt is so ugly. Why would her mom own that?" They snicker.

You step out of Tommy's passenger seat, him following shortly after you, throwing his arm around your waist. Carol steps up beside you, glancing away at the show of affection as her recent ex-boyfriend clings to you like a lost puppy. You all step into the house party, Tina walking up to you and smiling.

"Tommy, could you go get us a drink?" You turn to your boyfriend, hoping to make the boy feel useful.

"Of course!" He gets everyone's drink orders before going to walk off, but someone stops him.

Billy Hargrove blocks his path, making the poor guy knock right into him.

"Sorry, Billy." Tommy recoils a bit before glancing back at you. You try desperately not to roll your eyes.

"Tommy, Baby..." You bat your eyelashes at him, "Our drinks?" Carol glances at him then you, before looking away again, obviously uncomfortable with the name calling but too scared to say anything.

"On it!" Tommy perks up, but Billy once again steps in his way. This time you don't bother hiding your eyeroll.

"Ugh, Billy, let him pass. Jesus, you're such a nuisance." Your comment makes Tina giggle. "Don't you torture him enough with your stench during practice?"

"Do you always have to be such a bitch?" He counters.

"I just speak truth."

"Truth? While fucking your friend's ex-boyfriend? Please, you're just a whore who doesn't know how to behave." Billy steps closer to you, getting too close for your comfort. His comment get's the attention of some people nearby.

"Excuse you?" You scoff. No one had ever talked to you like that, and they weren't gonna start now.

"You heard me, Bitch. You bite the hand that feeds you enough times it's gonna bite back." He looks you up and down, looking at every curve of your body.

The things he could teach you...

"All high and mighty for a dick with legs." You snicker, "What? Nicole didn't give good enough head today?" You notice the girl behind him look at you, the fear in her eyes fuels you.

"You know, from what I hear, Nicole isn't the only one on her knees regularly... Even the good old King Steve," He lifts his arms, getting the attention of even more on-lookers, "used to shove his cock down your throat. So why don't you get down there and show me just what a good whore you are."

You glare at him, your blood practically boiling. "You're an ass, Billy."

"And you're just a good lay, Queen Bee."

Tag list!

@cagethemunson

@spikeybatt

@cherrycolas-things

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[julesthequirky]

The Choice: Chapter Four

All my work is purely aimed at those 18+ so minors kindly, DNI.

Summary: You find three of your favourite characters in your home. It shouldn’t be possible, but there they are. In the flesh. How the hell did they get there? And surely there’s a way to get them back? But as you get close to each one, the thought of sending them back proves difficult to comprehend.

Characters/Pairings: Fem!Reader, Dean, Beau and Soldier Boy/ Ben (and Eric the black cat.)

Warnings: Language, mentions of divorce, mentions of manipulation, typical Soldier Boy behaviour.

A/N: If you've noticed continuity errors regarding the divorce timeline, that is entirely my fault. I write these chapters on the fly, with the bare minimum on how the chapter will end, and the scope of the story. Excuses aside, I am making amends as I go. If you see any continuity errors, please let me know. Sometimes I just forget.

W/C: 1,726

Feeling lighter, thanks to Beau, you headed down after him. Checking your phone, you almost baulked at the time. It was half eleven at night. Where were they all going to sleep?

Two spare guest bedrooms were left free. One had been your ex-husband’s gaming room, and the other you’d wanted to turn into a nursery, but your ex had shot that idea down not long into the marriage. You’d talked about having kids, and he’d agreed. You’d show him cribs and strollers, and he’d smile and comment pleasantly. He fed into your dreams only to destroy them. You’d kept the gifts from family and friends, hiding them in boxes, unable to part with them no matter his insistence.

He had decided to sleep in that room during the separation. Out of fear of him finding the items, you hid them in your room, only to return them once he had left.

Now you had two guest rooms, both with double beds. You were sure none of them would share, and why would they? They were grown men, for God’s sake. That left the couch, which would not fit any of them on. You could barely fit on it. It was more of a loveseat and not a comfortable sleep. You knew from experience. It taxed the back if slept on for too long. This left you with the final option—your bed. And you hadn’t had a man in your bed since your ex a year and a half ago.

You scratched your chin lightly and walked with purpose towards the kitchen. You stopped in your tracks when you saw Ben. He sat at your table, a half-empty bottle of rosé clamped in his fist, and the rest was quickly following down his gullet. You knew for a fact it had been full the last time you’d checked your fridge.

After finishing the wine in mere seconds, he clunked the bottle down and belched loudly, then pronounced—

“You’ve got God awful taste in wine. A nun couldn’t get pissed offa that. Don’t suppose you’ve anything stronger?”

You blinked in astonishment.

“Uh, no. Only rosé.”

His lip curled, and he huffed but stayed seated. What could you do? You didn’t have the time to go to the store. He could wait.

“I’ll pick something up tomorrow.” You said pulling open a drawer.

He replied with a grunt as you were taking out paper straws. All equal in size, you cut one in half, then tucked them into your sweater pocket when you were finished. Behind you, a chair scraped back, and when you turned, Ben was rising to his feet, shield in arm.

“C’mon, I need to figure out where you’re all sleeping.”

“Oh,” His voice perked up. “Bet you’ve never slept with three blokes at the same time, eh?”

His eyes twinkled, and a smile slipped out. God, he was an asshole, but that smile…that smile made your stomach flutter.

“Lemme guess—one for each hole, right?” You said deadpan.

“You guessed it, sugar.”

You shook your head and patted his arm, striding past him to the living room. Dean was still inspecting the box, lips moving silently as he attempted to read the inscription. Working this whole thing out without his hunter contacts would take much longer. Beau had his fingers deep in Eric’s fur, who was purring loudly on the cowboy’s lap.

Ben sauntered in, smirk on his lips. He propped his shield down and perched against the couch’s arm, crossing his arms against his broad chest. Out of the three, he was the one that intimidated you the most.

You wiped your hands along your lounge bottoms. This needed sorting. It couldn’t wait any longer. You turned slightly, pulling out the straws, making sure the tops were of equal length, before presenting them to the boys.

“Pick one. This is gonna determine your sleeping arrangements.”

Dean looked up from the box, and Beau’s brows raised in wonderment. But they both reached forward, picking a straw. Each one was long, which left—

“So, what’s the short straw? The couch?” Ben inquired as he plucked the remaining straw from your hand.

“No.”

It was damn typical of him to get the shortest. It meant bunking with you. In your bed.

“The short straw is my bed. With me.”

“Ohoh.” Ben rubbed his hands together in glee. There was that twinkle in his eye again.

Oh, brother. You took the opportunity before something else came hurling out of his mouth.

“Lemme show Beau and Dean to their rooms, and tomorrow we’ll head into town and pick up some essentials.”

“Skin mags and lotion,” Flew out of Ben’s mouth. He nudged Dean beside him. “Gotta clean those pipes out, amirite?”

You sighed and scrubbed a hand down your face. Damn that man. Dean chuckled lightly but otherwise didn’t engage.

Before Ben could say anything more, you spoke up. “Why don’t I show you to your rooms.”

All three stood up. All right then. You picked up the box sets from the coffee table, quirking your eyebrows at Dean with a smile as you held the heavy set to your chest. You turned off the light and made your way upstairs. You showed Dean and Beau to their rooms, told them where the bathroom was and if they had any problems, told them which room was yours.

Then you retired to your room with Ben following.

“Betcha never slept with a Supe before, eh?” There was that teasing tone again.

He closed the door behind him and instantly started stripping. You looked away, heat rising in your neck and cheeks.

“Whatsa matter, sweetcheeks? Never seen a specimen as fine as myself before?” He chuckled lightly.

The box sets were getting heavy in your arms, so you dropped them onto the bed. Sighing, you knelt down and pulled out a suitcase from under the bed. In one of the pockets was a TSA-approved padlock.

Ben huffed a small laugh. “You think that piddly ass of a lock is gonna keep any of us out? I’m sure if we wanted, we could get past it. Real fuckin’ easy.”

You looked up. He only had his Supersuit pants on, top stuffed in his hands. He was in peak physical form. Perfect abs and pecs you wanted to run your hands over. Hard and toned, with thick biceps that could crush heads.

Damn.

You swallowed thickly.

He smirked.

“You wanna put your eyes back inside your head unless you’re lookin’ to ride the stallion?”

You closed your mouth and resumed your task—zipping and locking the suitcase.

“It’s a matter of principle. And respect. I wouldn’t delve into your belongings, so you won’t do it with mine.”

Ben snorted. “Believe what you wanna believe.”

“Well, I’m asking you not to.”

You pushed the suitcase back under the bed.

“Why you hiding them away anyway? Afraid we’ll watch our own shows?”

You rose to your feet. Now he had his Supe pants off and stood in his boxers.

“You know what they say. Curiosity killed the cat.”

He raised his eyebrows as you snatched your pyjamas off the bed and headed for the ensuite. No way were you comfortable with changing in front of him.

“I don’t bite. Not unless you want me to.”

He laughed as you closed the door on him. Sitting on the toilet, you rested your head in your hands. Oh, why did it have to be him? He was so toxic, so destructive, but dammit, he was so fucking hot. You’d thought about him in the worst ways, and they’d always give you the hardest orgasms.

But this wasn’t you and your imagination. He was really in there, almost naked, teasing and testing you. The sight of his body conjured all kinds of things and would be used when appropriate.

You changed, did your business and brushed your teeth before heading out. Ben was sitting in bed on your side. He had his hands behind his head, wearing a smirk.

“That’s my side…but I guess it doesn’t matter.”

You dropped your clothes in the laundry basket and slipped into bed beside him. Now, how were you going to do this? Form a pillow blockade? No. He’d most likely laugh at that, and you didn’t have the pillows for it.

You shuffled your pillow down a little bit and laid down, making sure the back of your head only just touched the mattress and pulled your hair up in a pony. You turned to see Ben giving you a strange look.

“What the fuck? You special or something?”

You frowned. “No. I’m just…particular.” You had the duvet up to your chin, lying dead straight.

“You look like Dracula in his fucking coffin.”

“We all have quirks.”

He quirked his eyebrows.

“That’s saying something.”

He pushed himself from sitting to lying down, causing you to sway as he did. He leant on one arm, looking your way.

“You look like you haven’t had a shit in a week. You nervous?”

“Little bit, yeah. You’re a bit of a wild card, and it’s been a while since a man has been in the same bed as me.”

“Like how long?”

“A year and a half.”

“Wow. You must really be gagging for it, huh?”

You huffed a small laugh.

“Contrary to popular opinion, no, actually.”

“Well, despite what you may think of me, I’m not gonna jump on you. Though if I knew I’d be picking the short straw, I’d have asked you to go to the store sooner. Dry rubbin’ fuckin’ hurts.”

Huh?

Ohhh.

You pulled a face and stared up at the ceiling. Ben laughed at your reaction and turned out the light, finally putting his head on the pillow.

You laid there, staring at the ceiling and minutes later, you heard his snores. They were loud, like a bulldozer. You stuck your head under your pillow desperately trying to sleep, but, God, were they so fucking loud. In the end, you gave up. You slipped out of bed and headed for the linen closet. You grabbed extra blankets before going down to the living room. You made yourself comfortable on the sofa. Eric meowed quietly, jumped up, and you kissed his soft head. He curled up, and you closed your eyes, waiting for sleep to take over.

Tags

@deans-spinster-witch, @curlycarley, @angelbabyyy99, @sassy-pelican

[wardenparker]

Hummingbird Has Landed, ch 2

Marcus Pike x female reader Co-written with @absurdthirst

After the debacle of his failed engagement and relocating to Washington to take charge of his task force, newly minted Special Agent Marcus Pike is ready to get back out into the dating pool once more. A slew of bad dates has him feeling a little down, and he takes an old friend up on an invitation to get away and get his head on straight. Imagine his surprise when he finds not only fresh air, but his soulmate as well - hiding in plain sight but in the unlikeliest of places.

Rating: Mature, but this blog is always 18+ Word Count: 12.6k Warnings: *Blanket warnings for this series: occasional mention of American politics, pregnant character, food/alcohol consumption, mentions of clothing/regulated dressing for occasions, mentions of therapy because we believe in self care here, reader is in a previous relationship, love triangle* Mentions of sick loved ones, mutual pining, personal guilt, relationship turmoil. Summary: After only knowing Marcus for a brief time, you can already feel emotions beginning to build. Will that spell trouble for the relationship you've worked so hard to build with Sam, or will something else altogether begun to sow seeds of doubt? Notes: Once again I'm afraid I have to ask forgiveness in the edit of this chapter. I went away for a few days this week and ever since my chronic illness has been utterly kicking my ass. Hopefully I didn't miss too many errors here.

Game night will probably go down in the year's history as one of the best and most fun times that Marcus has had in a long time. He had laughed until his stomach hurt, his abs aching the next week for at least three days. He's gotten an open invitation back, but he doesn't know if that was a good thing, if he's honest with himself. His attraction to you is something that he's got to get ahold of if he's going to socialize with you more. It seems like everything about you just makes the heavens sing and the sun shine. It's crazy and he hates that, considering you are very happy in a relationship.

Eastern Market is his usual haunt on the weekend, preferring it to a generic grocery store, and he’s lost in thought enough that he doesn’t notice a familiar face at the florist’s stand across the way as he’s walking through the stalls. "Some peaches will be good." Marcus decides, looking through some of the fruits that have been trucked in from warmer states. "Peach smoothies." He decides, walking towards the gorgeous plump peaches on display.

If you were any other person in the world, it would be you who bumped into him and not the Secret Service agent contractually obligated to come along on your errands. As it is, when Agent Bailey defends you from being bumped into by the familiar figure of Marcus Pike, you’re the one who apologizes. “Oh! I’m so sorry, excuse u—Marcus?”

“Oh, hi!” Marcus shakes his head, reaching out and taking your arm. “I am so sorry. I guess I wasn’t paying attention.” He apologizes. “Was focused on getting some peaches and didn’t notice anything or anyone, obviously.” He flushes slightly, feeling that pull towards you and hating that he looks like a jerk, or maybe just thoughtless, in front of you. “I didn’t hurt you, did I?”

"Not at all." The flowers in your hands and the canvas shopping bags on your arm aren't harmed either, and you find yourself smiling much more brightly than you were even a second ago. "No harm done to me or to Agent Bailey, not to worry. Is it errand day for you, too?"

“Trying to eat healthier.” Marcus admits, slightly upset by the prospect but he figures that just comes with getting older. “Figured the produce here would be better than in a grocery store. Are these for the inn?” He asks, looking at the flowers in your hands and immediately reaches for them. “Let me help.”

"I thought my apartment could use some brightening up." He's seen the organized chaos that you live in and you're not embarrassed by it by any means, but there is a small sting to buying your own flowers just a few days before Valentine's Day. Sam isn't a flowers guy and that's perfectly fine, but you're definitely a flowers girl. When Marcus scoops them up without a second thought and stays by your side, you can feel your cheeks heat up. "I, um—thank you.

“Of course.” He huffs, as if newly made acquaintances should always scoop up flowers from you. “You chose brilliantly. They are gorgeous. Have you already paid for them?”

"Yes, so don't even try." It's just a playful warning that comes with a waggle of your finger, but you really have a feeling that he would try to pay for them if you hadn't.

He grumbles at that slightly. “Well, okay.” It’s almost pathetic that he takes note of what kind of flowers you like and he smirks. “So which flower is your favorite in this?” He asks.

"These," you point out a geometrically fascinating flower with petals that seem to spiral endlessly. "They're called camellias. We called them Winter Roses when I was growing up, but I've always loved them." The intimacy of the question goes straight over your head, just excited to have something pretty to split amongst the small vases in your little space.

“Camellias.” Marcus repeats the flower, filing away the information even though he shouldn’t use it. “They are beautiful.”

"Not everyone has them, so I tend to get my flowers here just to make sure they're in the mix." Barely aware that you're standing in the middle of a bustling market with people trying to move all around you, you have to shake away the warmth settling in you that is definitely not due to any kind of attraction. Nope. Not even a little. Not at all. "You, um..." you gesture to the next stall, where he was originally headed when the collision happened. "Peaches?"

“Peaches? Oh right, peaches.” Marcus laughs at himself and shakes his head. “Yeah, sorry, I’m – I forgot.” He snorts. “I was thinking about fresh peach smoothies.”

"Ooooo, that sounds incredible." All of a sudden it's the best idea you've heard all day, and you grin mischievously. "It's not exactly standard, but the next time you're craving a sweet after having Indian take out? Make a peach smoothie. It's got that same vibe as a mango lassi but it's slightly sweeter, and it's the most refreshing thing ever."

“I was actually thinking about having Indian tonight.” Marcus admits with a grin. “To reward myself for eating healthier.”

"Best reward in the world." You agree easily. "I told myself I was going to cook tonight and make sure there were leftovers for another day this week, but I am teetering dangerously close to just calling for take-out as well."

"Well..." Marcus almost doesn't offer, because of the fact that you have a boyfriend, but he is truly meaning this as a friendly offer. "If we went to have Indian together, it wouldn't be as bad as ordering it as take out, would it?" He ventures, raising his brows in offer.

You should say no, You should absolutely say no. Not because the invitation is improper in any way — after all, he's a friend. But because of the way your heart bumps and skips at the offer like you hope he means it as more. He doesn't, and that is a good thing. In fact, Marcus and Sam got along fairly well at game night. But you can't help the way your cheeks burn pleasantly. "DuPont Circle?" You ask, confirming that he means he was intending to order from the same place you were. When he nods, you do too. "That sounds really nice."

"This way..." He's immensely happy you are agreeing to come to eat with him. "We can order the samosas and pakoras and not feel any guilt what so ever." He tells you, grinning at you.

"No guilt, but definitely extra time at the gym." His smile is dangerous, but apparently your self-preservation instincts aren't nearly as good as you think they are, because the only alarm bell going off in your head is the one that says Don't Let It Become a Date! which you just brush off. Surely that won't even be a possibility. It can't, because you and Sam have a good thing going. "Although, you're not masochistic enough to have my little brother as your biweekly gym buddy, so your trips are probably far less traumatic than mine," you offer with a laugh.

"Nope." Marcus chuckles. "I just torture myself by running around the Mall during my lunchbreaks instead of spending it in museums or at the food trucks." He snorts. "I just get to smell them just off the Mall."

"Have you lived in DC for three years without doing any of the food trucks out on the Mall?" That might be the most appalling thing you've ever heard in your life, and you nearly drop the peach that you had just picked up to add to your basket.

"Oh no." He laughs at that. "First six months I was here, I fucking lived off food trucks." He admits. "I was undercover and my contact checked in with me through the food trucks."

"Oh, thank God." The both of you laugh as you wipe imaginary sweat of your forehead as though it had made you nervous. "If you had never had Julia's Empanadas, I might have had to drag you down to the Mall right now."

"Then I wouldn't have room for Indian." Marcus groans, rolling his eyes at the thought of how many empanadas he would try to fit in his stomach if you went to Julia's Empanadas. "And I'm really craving Indian."

"I am too." Although, now you're going to be thinking about empanadas for ages. Maybe you'll have to try making some. "How has your week been?" Making small talk is easy with him, as you poke through the fruit bins to find peaches, apples, and pears to snack on this week.

"It's been alright." He shrugs slightly. "Depositions for a few upcoming cases. So I've had to revisit case files and work with the district attorney's office to make sure that there aren't any surprises."

"Paperwork and meetings," you nod in understanding. "I get that. Being my own boss is a hell of a lot more paperwork and meetings than I ever thought it would be."

"Ordering supplies, creating events to drum up interest. Balancing budgets." He nods. "I can imagine that it feels like it's hard to get a free moment for yourself."

The way you nod is tired but proud. Every ounce of hard work that you put into that inn is worthwhile, and you do it with straight shoulders and as much determination as you can possibly summon. "Today is my first day off in...two or three weeks? It's...a lot. But it's so worthwhile. And it means that Syd has her place, too. I wouldn't trade it for anything."

"So how did you come to have the inn?" Marcus has been curious about that. "Was it always your dream? Or something you fell into?'

"I really, really liked throwing parties when I was younger." That's the easy way to start, as you both move to the line to pay for your bundles of fruit at this particular stall. "That grew up into loving to have guests over all the time. And then dreaming about running a hotel. So I took my sociology and history double major and got a job a hotel in Philly after college, putting myself through a hospitality degree while I started learning the ropes. It was a lot of years of working my way up, but eventually I got hired as the manager for the Inn at Jones Point under the old owners. They were struggling to keep up with new technology and losing clients because of it, and then..." Your eyes flick up to Marcus, almost apologizing for telling him the whole story. "We found out the reason Anita was having so much trouble learning the new technology was early-onset dementia alongside a sizeable brain tumor. I bought the inn from them when they made the decision that a comfortable end to her life was the most important thing they could do. Michael – Anita's husband – he comes around once a week for dinner and to check up on the place now that she's gone. He likes to keep an eye on it for her."

“That’s….” Marcus softens so much at the background story. “Beautiful. You are maintaining their legacy while adapting it to the new realities of time. Weathering time.”

"That farmhouse has been standing since the 1700s. We're just part of its legacy, not the other way around." The pair of you step up to be next in line, with Agent Bailey standing mere feet away managing to look imposing and nonchalant all at once. "The best part is that it could give Sydney her restaurant, and Juan a way to find himself in all the event planning. We didn't know what a team we'd be until we got going and now it's...it's just amazing."

“That’s incredible, and the fact that the place runs so smoothly is a testament to your hard work.” Marcus praises. He’s read some of the reviews and they are all positive, even the ones that had events beyond your control.

“That’s very kind of you.” Kind is an operative word for Marcus. As are sweet, funny, intelli— Nope, stop it, you’re getting dreamy again. Even the momentary distraction of having to pay for fruit is a welcome one if it gets your mind off that track.

Ouch. Kind is such a word that lands him in the friend zone. Which is where he has to be with you, but it still hurts. No longer edgy or cool like he was when he was in his old band. “What else do you need to get?” He asks, swinging his head around at the options available.

“I’m almost done actually.” It didn’t escape you that he flinched slightly when you were trying to be grateful and at least a little complimentary, and suddenly your stomach flips in fear that he might not like spending time with you are much as it seems. Or that you’d done something wrong. “I just wanted to get some fresh bread. But…I don’t know how much more you have to do.”

“Nothing.” He promises, shooting you a grin. “The least I can do is carrying things. Since you are saving me from a night of trying to cook.”

“Never learned to cook or just never got good at it?” There is a difference, after all, and it isn’t about want. Some people find cooking to be an incredible challenge. He gives you a look when you take your parcel of fruit from the vendor and accepts it on your behalf with thanks. Like a damn gentleman, you think with a pant in your chest.

“Never really had the time or the inclination.” He admits. “It’s hard to be enthusiastic about cooking for one, you know what I mean?”

“But that’s when you get to experiment!” Maybe it’s years of being friends with Sydney, whose world revolves around her tastebuds, but cooking has always been an outlet for you. It’s one of the only things you dislike about your apartment —the teeny tiny kitchen. “You can test out new things and weird combinations, and if it’s not great then the only person who knows is you. But if it’s awesome?” You grin up at him like you’re unveiling some kind of ultimate secret. “You become a rockstar at the next office potluck.”

Marcus chuckles. “I’m a rockstar anyway.” He jokes. “I’m the one who brings in the pizza and Chinese for the late nights in the office.”

“Okay, actually, that does count for a lot.” Walking in the direction of the bakery where you get all of your sweet treats and fresh bread, you readjust your shopping bag on your arm and try to glance around the place to survey your surroundings the way Agent Bailey has been teaching you. A comprehensive knowledge of your surroundings, she calls it. “I can’t really cook for my staff much when they have Sydney’s kitchen nearby, but I leave baked goods in the break room from time to time as a thank you. They work so hard.”

“There’s nothing better than snagging a muffin or a cookie when you’re rushing around.” Marcus agrees wisely.

“Or a slice of pizza.” It sounds like he works hard to keep his team in good spirits the same way you do, and you have to commend that in someone who works in such a dour field. Even art crimes — being less violent in nature, according to what you looked up the other night out of sheer curiosity — can’t possible be all sunshine and roses.

“Exactly.” He nods. “Sometimes we have all night surveillance or going through the evidence when something is time sensitive. My teams work better when they are well fed, and know how much they are appreciated.” He shrugs slightly, “everyone could benefit from know that every now and again.”

"Sometimes the weddings we run are just...they're insane. Or last year we had an entire family reunion take over the grounds for four very long days. I can't imagine it's half as stressful as what you deal with but the days can be really long and busy in their own right." For what it's worth, at least, you do love your job. And it's obvious that Marcus feels just as passionately about what he does.

“Oof.” He winces. “I bet the staff wanted to break out a bottle of bubbly when they were checked out.” Marcus jokes, chuckling slightly. “Yeah a lot of people don’t understand that when you love your job, the long hours are worth it.”

"Yeah." A tinge of regret breaks your smile, barely twitching in the corner of your mouth, and you barely nod. He can't possibly know what kind of a nerve he's hit — hell, you barely know yourself and you're the one feeling it. It just...it stings.

“Did I say something wrong?” He asks, immediately concerned when your smile seems almost sad.

"No." You reassure him much too quickly, and flinch in your own right when he looks skeptical. "It's just...not everyone thinks what I do is as worthwhile as, say, something like what you do. A—and that makes sense. Running an inn and upholding the law are—they're not the same. I'm not saying they are. It's just...that important to me. That's all."

“Whoever believes that is wrong.” Marcus insists wholeheartedly. “Running an inn is absolutely crucial. Maybe not to everyone, but to the people who need a little escape, a retreat to relax and revive themselves, your inn is a haven to them.” He is speaking passionately because he believes it. “When I’m out of town on a case, I hope that I can book a little inn. Something more personable than a Holiday Inn, so when I come back, it’s like a little slice of home.”

“I appreciate that. Really. It’s—I guess it’s a sore spot at the moment and I didn’t realize it. That’s all.” And you are absolutely not going to allow yourself to indulge in the image of Marcus coming back to the inn for you. Your place is not his ‘ little slice of home’. Even if you’re wondering what the would feel like if it was real.

“Well, you can always gripe and complain if you need to.” He promises.

“No, that’s—that’s not it.” It’s a little embarrassing, if you’re honest, but that’s only because you’re fighting being attracted to the man beside you. Otherwise you would just be chatting to a friend. “I just…don’t get to spend as much time with Sam as he would like. That’s all. Because we both have busy jobs.”

Marcus winces. “With the job he has, it would be hard unless you didn’t work.” He murmurs quietly. “But what counts is that you make the time you do have together special.”

“That’s what I said. Making the most of our time it’s what is most important.” The topic had come up again in conversation when you and Sam had talked about next steps — through the odd avenue of discussing your commute. His house to the inn isn’t a prohibitive drive, but it will warrant either having a lot of work done on your car or getting an upgrade. Right now you have no commute whatsoever, so you’re barely using your car outside of town.

“My favorite thing to do with my ex-wife was to curl up and watch a movie.” He admits. “Or work on a crossword together.”

“Those…” You laugh quietly, almost self-consciously, and shrug with the air of someone who is just about to give up. “Are the things I do with my good friend Agent Bailey, here. Though she kicks my ass at the Times Sunday crossword every single week.”

He rolls his eyes at himself. “I know it’s an old person’s activity, but I was normally exhausted from the academy.”

“Don’t you dare besmirch the Times Crossword.” A waggles finger and disapproving tsk seems to amuse him and it makes you smile, too. “That’s a mandatory topic of conversation at my mother’s dinner table.”

“Your mother enjoys the Times Crossword?” He asks, grinning at you. “She would get along with my parents. They have two subscriptions just so they can each do their own.”

“I’m keeping that in mind for Dad’s birthday this year.” It’s a brilliant idea. They would love to make a competition of it. It would be the highlight of their week.

“My parents got it as a wedding present and they enjoyed it so much, they kept it.” He tells you, smiling fondly at the memory of the two of them arguing playfully over their crosswords.

“That’s incredibly sweet.” There is a crowd at the bakery, as to be expected, so you and Marcus step into line to wait your turn. “I love the idea of being able to share small things with your partner. They’re every bit as important as the grand gestures, if not more.”

“Sometimes the smaller gestures are the most meaningful.” He admits with a grin. “I love cherry Danishes, and so did my ex. We would find these combo boxes of assorted and she would get the cherry one.”

“Giving up your favorite Danish flavor is not small.” An attempt at lightening the already light and sweet conversation is maybe…just trying to keep your own mind off of things. But that somehow doesn’t keep you from admitting the truth before you can stop yourself. “I have yet to meet the man I would give up my lemon poppyseed muffin for.”

“That’s only because you’ve never traded for a raspberry crumble muffin.” Marcus vows, smirking at the way you look stingy, even though he knows for a fact you aren’t.

“You’re on, Pike.” The smirk on his lips spreads to yours as effortlessly as breathing. “But lemon poppyseed is pretty impossible to unseat.”

“I don’t think you’ve ever had a raspberry crumble then.” He huffs, looking offended at the idea. “But I don’t think this place has them. I get them from a little bakery near the Bureau. I’ll have to bring you one.”

“I’ll get you a lemon poppyseed from the coffeeshop I go to in Old Town.” Even as its coming out of your mouth you know it sounds like flirting, but the fact is that you just feel so naturally comfortable with him. There is nothing flirtatious about muffins, you tell yourself. Nothing at all. “We can compare notes.”

“That sounds like a plan to me.” Marcus is extremely happy that you would like to make plans with him, any plans. Even if it’s just a friendly wager. “I’ll get the raspberry crumble. I say we each get two. And if you like the other one so much, you have to give up both.”

“Deal.” You put your hand out to him, willing to make a friendly bet on almost anything. That’s gotten you and your brother in trouble before, but this is harmless.

Marcus grins as he takes your hand, imagining that lightning bolts are shooting up his hand. Winking, he laughs, “just don’t be disappointed when you break that little rule of yours for me.” He boasts.

“We’ll see.” The tone of the thing really tries for teasing, but you end up so taken aback by the electricity in shaking his hand that you fluster — which is only compounded when you end up next in line and completely forget the word for ‘sourdough’ in the process.

“I, uh, I want-“ you seem completely out of it, and the bored looking boy behind the counter seems to be getting annoyed with you. “Can we have just a second?” Marcus asks, pulling you back and allowing another couple to go ahead of the two of you. “I’ve completely forgotten what I wanted.” He takes the blame, not wanting to embarrass you.

“Bread?” You manage to supply, feeling like a world class idiot for clamming up on something so routine. If being around him is going to be this big of a problem, you need to get yourself in order.

“Yeah, bread.” He nods, wrinkling his nose slightly. “What’s that type that I like?”

At this point he could mean him or he could mean you, or he could even just be speaking in theoreticals, but you have you head in straight enough again to blow out a breath and remember yourself. “Sourdough. I forgot the damn word for sourdough.”

“Thats it.” He snaps his fingers and looks back at the boy. “Could we get some sourdough bread?”

“Sure.” The kid looks at the both of you like you’ve gone insane but turns around to bag a loaf of freshly baked bread without a second thought for his strange customers.

Marcus pays for the bread, even with you huffing beside him and guides you towards the clearing. “That wasn’t that bad.”

“Only because you saved me from sputtering like an idiot.” It’s beside the point that he is also the reason you were sputtering in the first place. That doesn’t matter. It’s the fact that you couldn’t keep it together that bothers you. “Thanks for that.”

“Not at all.” He waves off your thanks. “Everyone has those moments.” He promises, smiling at you.

There is such a moment of relief when you exhale again that you have to make light of it or else you’re in danger of feeling far more grateful than is probably necessary, and that makes your chest ache in a dull and insistent kind of way. “That’s either very sweet of you or a complete placation, but either way I appreciate it.”

“No placation, I promise.” He crosses his finger over his heart and smiles at you. “Anywhere else?”

“That was the last thing for me.” Even though you have plans to have dinner with him that night you still can’t help feeling a little disappointed that the impromptu shopping trip has come to an end. “Unless you needed something else?”

“Well…” Marcus looks around, not wanting to let you leave just yet. “Maybe I could find a plant to kill?” He asks. “Something to brighten up my place?”

"Bit of a black thumb?" The excuse to not say goodbye yet is welcome, and you end up smiling more broadly than you mean to. "Let's see what we can do about that."

“More that I forget to set up someone to water my plants when I go out of town and they die miserable, thirsty deaths while I’m away.” He flashes you a guilty grin. “I’m a murderer.”

“Very rude of you to do to your plants.” The wholesome, straight-faced nod that you cry for cracks on a giggle, though, and you nod in the direction of an entirely different florist stand than the one you were at before. “What you need is a succulent.”

“That sounds a little dirty.” Marcus admits, not even realizes how flirtatious that sounds.

It does. And you didn’t mean for it to. You were just talking about the type of plant he could get. But then there’s that grin on his face and it’s so fucking puckish and * handsome* that you practically groan about how unfair the whole damn thing is. “Whoops?” You offer, obviously not apologetic in the least.

He snorts and winks at you again. “I don’t mind. Sometimes being a little dirty is a good thing.” It’s borderline inappropriate, so Marcus doesn’t say anything else.

“Sometimes it’s the fun of an otherwise boring day.” But since you’re genuinely afraid you might say too much if you go ahead with this line of thought, and since Agent Bailey is steadily avoiding your eyes like an older sister trying not to bear witness to your trouble making, you clear your throat and change the subject. “I think I snake plant would work for you. They’re really easy to care for and great for beginners or busy people.”

Marcus takes your lead and nods seriously. “I’ll take some advice. Any advice.” He shrugs slightly. “I wish I had the time for pets, but I don’t and it’s wrong to do that to them.”

“If I could have a dog, I would have a little corgi or a Yorkie in a heartbeat.” It comes with an almost wistful sigh, but you feel the same way he does. It would be cruel to the animal you’re supposed to be taking care of. “But since I have no concept of work-life balance? I have plants.”

“I’ll start with plants.” Marcus huffs. “If I can keep one alive? Maybe I’ll move on to cats? They are low maintenance.”

“Cats are fantastic. Sydney and Anna Leigh always had a couple when we were growing up and they can’t be the sweetest animals in the world.” There is a florist that specializes in succulents and potted plants further into the market and you head that way, chatting as you go. “I just always said I would want my kids to grow up with a puppy.”

“Puppy, a swing set in the yard and dinner together.” Marcus adds wistfully, having his own version of that same dream. “Every kid needs a puppy pal.”

“That’s exactly what I said.” And the knot in your stomach tells you that that isn’t a coincidence — that the future you’ve dreamt about probably lines up with the one he wants in so many different ways.

“We had my dog for nearly twenty years.” Marcus tells you. “He was my best friend and the best soul I’ve ever met.”

“I got Alex instead of a dog,” you giggle, silliness tinging the edge of his sweet nostalgia. “My little brother.”

“Isn’t a younger brother the same thing?” He asks with a grin.

“Very much so. And Alex is as much Golden Retriever as he is human.” If he were here, he’d give you so much grief for that comparison, but you stand by it. “What kind of dog did you have?”

Marcus chuckles. “A golden retriever.” He tells you without skipping a beat. “I’ve got a picture of him, wanna see?”

“Absolutely!” They say you’re either a kid person or a dog person, but you’re definitely both. Anything cute and squishy is right up your alley.

Digging out his wallet, it might be a little old fashioned to carry a physical photo of the favorite family pet, but he likes looking at it sometimes. He’s holding his dog, Hansel, in the picture. The white around the dog’s snout indicative of the older age of the golden retriever. “Here he is. Hansel.”

“What an angel!” If you could jump right through the photo and squeeze his beautiful face you would — the only problem is that you don’t know if you mean young Marcus or the dog.

“Wasn’t he?” Marcus hums happily. “He slept in my room growing up. Hated me leaving for college, although I hated being apart from him too.”

"How could you possibly leave that face? Look at him!" Yeah, it's definitely the dog that you're talking about. At least right now.

“Yeah.” He smiles down at the photo, unable to resist brushing his thumb over the canine face with happy memories flooding through him. “He was the best.”

"So would you want another Golden Retriever?" Looking between him and the photo, you think you might be able to guess the answer yourself. "Or will no other Golden ever live up to him?"

“Probably not.” Marcus shrugs. “He was from a litter of puppies at the shelter. It was just a coincidence that he was a pure Golden.” He frowns slightly. “I would want to adopt. It’s the best way to give a loving home to an animal.”

"Adopting is the only way." On that, you can firmly agree. But you point to the florist stand up ahead and touch his arm gently in an unconscious moment of casual comfort. "First, let's get you a plant to adopt."

“Yes, I would prefer adopted over nursery grown.” Marcus jokes, trying to ignore how easy it is to be with you. You can just be a friend. It’s possible and it’s possible he’s lying to himself.

"Wild, orphaned plants wandering the lonely roads with all their belongings tied up in a little bandana on a stick," you tease, conjuring the image of a cartoon orphan as best you can. To the girl behind the counter, you turn your full attention and the best conspiratorial smile you can conjure. "We're looking for something he'll have trouble killing," you confide with a chuckle. "Something like a snake plant, maybe? Or if you have a better recommendation we're all ears."

“It’s best to start them out with a plant before having pets or kids, isn’t it?” She asks with a grin, eyeing Marcus in amusement. “But he seems like the trustworthy type to me.”

"A fine, upstanding citizen if ever I saw one." The smirk you offer her is playful, and you glance up at Marcus beside you. "Plus, I'll be keeping an eye on the situation. For the good of the adoptee, of course."

“Of course.” She nods seriously, even though there is a definitely shaking to her voice, like she’s holding back laughter. “Let me show you the best options for a recovering black thumb.”

It's several minutes of back and forth with the florist who parries your playful banter well, and you end up leaving her stand with not just a lovely potted snake plant for Marcus, but an identical one for your apartment as well. "I had to!" You coo, when Marcus laughs at the little plant that you're cradling like a newborn. "It's so precious! And they're twins! I couldn't just leave it abandoned."

“Well, we have to name them.” Marcus decides. “Twin names.” He grins at you, “what do you think?”

"Luke and Leia," you joke right away, because that will always be the first pair of twins you think of in any situation. "Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum? Oh, do the creepy girls from The Shining have names?"

Considering The Shining was his first foray into horror when he was younger, it was also one of his favorites. "No, they were just called Grady Daughters one and two." He tells you. "But..." He whips out his phone. "They are Lisa and Louise Burns, in real life."

“So are the plants Grady and Burns, or Lisa and Louise?” Either way they’re exceedingly silly choices, and you’re going for it.

“Either one works for me.” Marcus laughs. “It depends on if the plants are male or female.” He jokes.

“I think we probably get to pick,” you joke right back, making a show of rolling your eyes at him even though you’re laughing.

“Hmmmmm.” He pretends to take a closer look at his plant. “I’m going to surprise you.” He decides. “My plant is female.”

“Oh, that’s no surprise to me.” The smirk you shoot back at him is probably the lightest and most carefree you r felt in ages, and just for the moment you’re not going to second guess it. You’re just going to revel in the moment. “All my plants are female.”

He snickers with you and then tilts his head. “Lisa or Louise for you?” He asks, before he answers. “I bet you want the name Louise. You’ll pretend it’s for Thelma and Louise.”

“I—how—” Staring at him in utter confusion does not help matters one bit, but you still don’t have any clue as to how he could possibly have guessed that about you after only having met you two whole times. “So?” You ask after a second, realizing you’re laughing with the absurdity.

You have the most beautiful laughs Marcus has ever heard, and he loves that he caused it. There’s a flash of guilt that comes with the thought and he decides to reel it back into the scope of reality. You are becoming a friend, nothing more. “Who wouldn’t?” He asks, still chuckling. “They were the greatest female duo in modern cinema. In my opinion.”

“They line up against Idgie and Ruth from Fried Green Tomatoes.” You’ll stand by that pairing until the day you die, but the way warmth is spreading through your chest and your fingers ache dully from wanting to reach out for him is a special, damning sort of agony. “And I will die on that hill.”

“I had completely forgotten about Idgie and Ruth.” He admits, hanging his head in shame. “Forgive me.”

“Just this once.” There is still a teasing grin on your face when your phone goes off in your pocket. Sam’s name splashed across your caller ID and guilt crawls through your veins immediately. “I’m sorry,” you apologize, glancing up at Marcus. “Just give me one second.”

Marcus catches a glimpse of the name and it’s like he’s doused with cold water. “Of course.” He murmurs politely, turning towards a little book stand to give you some privacy, beating himself up for flirting with another man’s significant other.

“Hey honey.” The second you pick up the phone with a plant in your other arm and your groceries weighing on your shoulder, that is the second you feel most self-conscious.

“Hey,” Sam’s voice comes over the line and he has a straightforward attitude, jumping into the reason for his call. “I’ve had a dinner invite tonight, some potential donors.” He tells you. “Can you make it?”

“I—” It’s not like it’s an unusual request. If he has a work event tonight then the best possible person he can have at his side is you. The idea of having dinner with Marcus had been so uplifting, and now cancelling on him makes you feel awful. But this is your boyfriend. “Yeah. Yeah, I can make it. Where and when? Is there a dress code?”

Sam rattles off the address and dress code. “Thanks honey, I knew I could count on you.” He tells you before he murmurs to someone else. “Hey, I’ve got to go, I love you.” The line clicks off immediately.

“I love you too.” It’s said to the silence, and you look down at your phone for a moment before pocketing it again. Marcus has stepped away to give you privacy, and you shift your weight from one foot to the other before walking back over to him. “I’m really sorry,” you murmur, actually looking as apologetic as you feel. “Can we postpone dinner tonight?”

“Oh….yeah, of course.” He hates the way the feels rejected, but you have priorities, ones that aren’t him. “That’s no problem at all.” He nods quickly and looks around. “Well, we should probably get your things to your car, right?”

“I—I’m really sorry.” Repeating it just makes you feel worse. But both of you feel worse, unbeknownst to you, and you walk in the direction of your car with Agent Bailey her usual two steps behind. “Something came up.”

“Not a problem at all.” Marcus promises you, plastering on a smile as you turn to him at your car. “I understand. Believe me, I’ve had plenty of things come up.”

"It was really nice to run into you today." There is no word of a lie or even exaggeration in that, and you take your flowers from Marcus's arms carefully, loading it into the backseat with your other bags and Louise the snake plant.

“Yeah, it was nice seeing you. Marcus holds up his plant. “Thanks for the help.” He hums. “Hopefully I won’t kill Thelma.”

"If you do, try to make it as spectacular as possible." Offering him a half smile, you realize that you just wish you could give him a big hug, but that would be totally out of line. So instead all you can think to do is shift your weight awkwardly again before opening your car door. "I'll see you around, Marcus."

“See ya.” He nods and turns around to walk to his car. He doesn’t turn around, knowing that it would look weird if he did.

Once you’re in the car with Agent Bailey and focused on getting back home to put everything away and make a cup of coffee before you have to start getting ready for the night, you sigh softly and sit back in your seat. You can feel the curiosity of the Secret Service agent beside you and you wonder if you look as guilty as you. “That was a nice surprise.”

“Yes.” Agent Bailey hums. “Special Agent Pike was quite a surprise.”

“He’s nice,” you defend, very aware that you’re defending yourself and not him.

“He’s very nice.” She agrees. “And exactly who he says he is.” Of course a background check had been done on the agent, which she was glad of now that he had popped back up on radar. Not quite sure what to make of the interaction at the market, it’s also not her place to judge it.

"Well, that's a comfort." The drive back to Alexandria won't take long, but you twist your hands around the steering wheel a few times before pulling out into traffic. "Unfortunately, tonight will be the opposite," you tell her with a dramatic sigh that cushions the blow of having to attend an impromptu event. "Sam asked me to come to a dinner party tonight. Last minute invitation, I guess somebody had a seat they needed filled and asked him."

“I see.” Now she has to find out where you are going to be, who is on the guest least and it means overtime tonight. She doesn’t sigh, but she wants to, much preferring to go to small Indian restaurant over some political function. “I’m sure it will be a lovely evening.”

"I know you have to vet everything." The process seems exhausting, but you would never question the agent's ability to get her job done. "It's a private party at Arthur Connesby's house. The aerospace tech guy? Apparently it's a party for his wife, but everybody invited are Sam's constituents. I have a feeling they're going to spend the night trying to pitch their own interests to him, but if nothing else they might donate to his next campaign if they feel like they got to be friendly with him." It sounds like it will be a fairly boring night of overly rich old men feeling self-important, but Sam asked you to be there and that's why you're going.

“Noted.” The agent is immediately firing off a text to her support team, letting them know about the change of plans tonight.

"I know it's not what we had in mind." The night has gone from staying home and watching a movie and maybe playing cards, to dinner out, to an entire party. It's a lot of jumps in not much time. "And I appreciate you being flexible. Truly."

“It’s my job to protect you no matter what.” She reminds you softly. She enjoys you, has gotten to know you and thinks you are lovely, but you are Hummingbird to her. The First Daughter of the President of the United States and her assignment. She would guard you regardless of what you were doing because it’s her job.

"Right." You nod slightly, eyes cast back out on the road, and try not to slump even a little as you drive. It's not necessary to be everyone's best friend. You know that on a practical level. Right now your energy is better served focusing on the night ahead. "Well, I can still be grateful. So thank you. For...being professional. An very good at your job."

She knows that you are disappointed, but one of the cardinal rules of the secret service is to not be emotionally attached to your assignment. It would be too difficult to make life or death decisions. “Protecting you has been my pleasure.” She promises.

"I appreciate that." For better or for worse, the Secret Service will be a part of your life for the rest of your life. So if you can't be friends, at least you can appreciate each other. For now, though, you ought to focus. A party with your boyfriend's constituents is no place to have your mind wander.

The dinner party is exactly what you imagined it would be. Self important people, boasting about how important they are as they fawn over ‘more’ important people. Or the people who could give them access to the power they wished to have. Sam was in his element, smiling and shaking hands. Listening to ideas with a feigned interest that comes naturally to politicians.

He's charismatic enough to keep their attention but has enough of his own heart left that he does seem to care about issues being brought to him. Unfortunately for these folks, they're talking about a whole lot of things that just one man can't change on their behalf. So all he can really do is listen and express interest in whatever plight it is they have.

You have found yourself in the rather unfortunate position of being inundated by the significant others of these men, and when the party turns to mingling after dinner they somehow manage to whisk you away to the garden where you aren't sure if they're planning on trying to get you to dance with various people, or maybe join their country clubs, You really can't tell which.

“You must tell me, how is living in the White House?” One asks you, under the impression that you are still living with your mother.

“I understand it’s very comfortable.” It’s almost a relief that these women seem not to know a thing about you beside who your mother is. Your greatest fear about the whole thing was being hounded through every day of your life — so far that hasn’t been the case. But it’s been barely more than a month. There’s time. “However, I chose not to reside there.”

“Oh, what a shame.” She hums, wondering why you wouldn’t want to call the most famous house in America home. “I hear that it’s haunted.”

“That is what they say.” And according to your little sister, it’s absolutely true. But an upscale party of relatively stuffy guests like this doesn’t seem like the place to spout tales of your sister taking her homework to the Lincoln bedroom. “And it’s certainly very beautiful.”

“I would love to take a tour sometime.” She tells you, hoping that you might offer to set it up for her. An intimate tour would be amazing.

“I’m sure that can be arranged.” You aren’t the sort of person who would exchange favors, so the thought that this could mean a donation for Sam’s campaign in the near future. Instead, you just know it would be something nice. “I can have something put together for you if you like?”

“That would be lovely!” She exclaimed, sending you a warm smile. “You know, you and the congressman make a beautiful couple. Possibly even presidential one day.” It’s a fishing expedition, feeling you out for your thoughts on a possible run.

"Possibly." And two weeks ago, you might have beamed at that implication. At the idea of Sam moving through his career with such gusto and motivation that he makes it all the way to the White House. But seeing what your father contends with as First Gentleman, the idea of being First Lady sounds overwhelming to you. It's even less likely that you would end up in politics yourself. "Sam takes his work very seriously, and he has high hopes for the future of our country."

“And what about you?” She asks. “You made waves, positive ones in my opinion, during your mother’s campaign about your stance on soulmates.”

"I don't have any political ambitions for myself." Of that, you can absolutely assure her. "While I'm more than happy to support the people around me, I'm very happy with my own career."

“At least until Congressman Chase makes an honest woman out of you.” She hums. “Then it’s so hard to balance your own career while supporting the ambitions of your husband.” There’s a rueful chuckle on her part. “Believe me, I know.”

"I won't be giving up my career." This is always a topic of conversation amongst significant others, you've found, and a topic that your father has contended with on multiple occasions. As your mother's career grew, he became a stay-at-home-dad and raised three kids. Because it was something he wanted to do, not because it was forced on him. And that has always been the key to you. "I own a business. So it's essentially my first child already."

“Oh?” Her brows wing up in surprise. “My apologies. I must have misunderstood.” Her eyes slide past you. “Excuse me, I must go catch Mrs. Jackson before she leaves.” She cuts off the conversation and hustles away.

It's a bit on and definitely abrupt, but the conversation wasn't very enjoyable to begin with so you smile politely and just let it roll off your back. Whatever she 'misunderstood' doesn't really concern you. Some gossip article must have speculated on the next steps of your relationship with Sam and you try not to let that kind of nonsense get to you.

“Having fun?” Sam comes up to you, his hand slipping around your waist and he presses a kiss to your cheek. “You look amazing, especially since it was so last minute.”

"You always like this dress." The first time you wore it was the nominating party after the Democratic National Convention, and then again to a fundraiser in Chicago. That was the night you met Sam, and he had remarked even then that the dress was particularly beautiful. It seemed like the logical choice for tonight based on that alone. "It's a nice party." The food was predictable but tasty, and the drinks are flowing, just like the way you expected the night to go. "Do we think there will be birthday cake?" You ask conspiratorially, looking up at him beside you with a smirk. "Is that something people still do for fancy fiftieth birthdays?"

“Cake is universal.” Sam snorts and nods. “I have it on good authority the cake is a chocolate raspberry mascarpone cream cake.” He tells you, knowing it will be an idea you carry back to Sydney.

"I know exactly what Saturday's dessert special is going to be." Somehow your best friend will turn a classic cake into something elegant and thoughtful, and you know the entire restaurant will go nuts for it. They always do, when Sydney gets to show off. "Are you having a good night? I know you had high hopes for networking tonight."

“It’s going well.” He hums happily and beams at you. “How about you? Working the other side for me?” He teases playfully, aware you don’t usually like campaigning.

"Nothing that will get me in trouble with my Mom's staff." Not that he would ever ask you to do anything like that. Sam doesn't go in for most of the entitled bullshit that other politicians do. "One request for a White House tour that I'll put through the appropriate channels. Nothing too odd."

“Interesting.” Sam looks thoughtful. “Who asked for that?”

"Shelly D'Amario." The wife of District Attorney-turned-Superior Court Judge Raymond D'Amario was one of the few people you had recognized from press coverage of events supporting your mother's campaign. Her husband's politics were lined up with most moderate Democrats, and he tended to hand down verdicts with thoughtful conclusions at the end of each case. He's one of those people you wouldn't have minded at all sitting at this dinner party with, but unfortunately the Judge was not able to attend.

“Oh.” Sam nods. “I was at another dinner with her and the judge just the other night.” He tells you. “Picking his brain about Constitutional law.”

“She was very nice.” Though instinct takes over, and you chew on your bottom lip for a second before going on. “Did you guys talk…about me at all? About us, I mean? At your dinner?”

“Well, naturally you came up.” Sam admits with a slight frown, wondering if Shelly had somehow insulted you. “Not everyone is dating the daughter of the current sitting President. But I didn’t share any private details about you.” He promises. “Or your family.”

“I know you wouldn’t do that.” If he was the sort of person who went around sharing personal details with anyone and everyone, you wouldn’t have been able to trust him. Especially not under the condition you met in. Campaigns are cutthroat. “She just…said something that kind of confused me, that’s all.”

“What confused you?” He asks, trying to recall the exact details of the dinner with the judge and his wife.

Without wanting to imply that he might have said anything, you still glance around you to make sure that Agent Bailey is the only one close enough by to overhear you. “She seemed to be under the impression that I would be quitting my job if we ever have a family. And when I said that wasn’t the case, she said she must have ‘misunderstood’ something and walked away immediately.”

Understand dawns in his eyes and Sam shifts slightly. “Well, that’s not something we’ve talked about just yet.” He reminds you. “That’s a conversation we need to have.”

"Right." You couldn't agree more. "Which is why I was confused that she seemed to have heard an opinion about it somewhere before. But it was probably just some gossip article."

He hesitates and then decides to come clean, you don’t like liars. “I might have voice my hopes for our future.” He admits. “It’s not so unexpected, is it?” He asks. “I’ll be spending a lot of time at different events and I will want you by my side.”

"Sam..." There's disappointment in your voice that you don't bother to hide. Of course he's absolutely entitled to talk about hopes, as he puts it, but you can't believe that he would ever think you would give up the inn. "I own the place, honey. It's not like taking a smaller role in an office or shifting to part time somewhere."

“Yes, you own it.” Sam stresses. “But you can have someone else manage it.”

"But I don't want to have someone else manage it." It's really like you can't believe your ears. Sam has never voiced anything like this before within the dynamic of your relationship and he knows very well how proud you are of your work at the inn and how much it means to you.

By the set of your jaw and the frown on your face, Sam knows that he can’t argue the point right now. He shakes his head, smiling at you and taking your hand. “You’re right. I—I wasn’t thinking about how much you love your inn.” He admits softly. “Let’s just forget about it, hm?”

"O—okay." There he is again. Your understanding, supportive Sam smiling at you and taking the stress out of the situation. The man you started dating almost a year ago. Dependable. "Okay."

“Good.” He pats your hand gently and leans in to kiss you softly. “But I do still want to talk about moving in together.”

"After our date on Tuesday?" The Valentine's night you had settled on together is dinner at a small, family-owned restaurant in his hometown followed by a fundraiser screening of short films made by local high schoolers looking to update their school's resources with the proceeds. Community-oriented is the theme of the night.

“That sounds appropriate.” He agrees with a nod. “For now, let’s just enjoy the rest of the evening.” He looks towards your secret service agent. “Will you be allowed to come to my place tonight?”

"I think that can be arranged." The invitation means you'll be sleeping over at his place twice this week, which is definitely more than you've been able to do lately and maybe that's a good thing. Maybe you just need to refocus yourself. And stop thinking about Marcus, for fuck's sake. You slip your arm around Sam's waist and lean into his side. "I just have to let Bailey know. Her relief agent will have to be told to go to your place instead of mine."

"Of course." Even though it irritates him, he nods. Understanding that you cannot help it right now. After your mother's term, perhaps you will decline protection.

"I know it isn't perfect." He's bristled about lack of privacy before, and though you can't say that you really blame him? There's nothing you can do about it. Secret Service protect for the President's immediate family is mandatory. And hell, you have a Secret Service agent in your apartment every night. At least when you stay with Sam, your agent usually stays in the living room or their car like a stakeout. It's typically left up to them. But still, you do understand the objection. "I'm sorry. It is what it is."

"I know." He sighs softly, hating that the evening has been sidetracked from what he imagined. "I understand. I just don't like them be so close when we are alone." He admits.

"I know." The last five minutes have become increasingly uncomfortable, but you still stick close to Sam and continue smiling, aware that eyes at the party might be on you just like they are anytime you go anywhere outside of your little haven at the inn. "But better that, than someone breaking into your house."

He doesn't point out that he has a security system and his townhouse is in a gate community. There's no point and it would just further cause an discussion that is best left for the relative privacy of his bedroom - with a secret service agent parked outside in his living room. He sighs. "Shall we get more wine?" He asks, trying to change the subject.

"Sure." There are people starting to dance to the music being piped through outdoor speakers, but you're not really in a dancing mood. There's too much swirling around in your mind to be light on your feet. "Wine sounds like a good plan."

Sam leads you over to the bar, ever the gentleman and stands beside you to look at the drink selections. "They have a nice pinot grigio." He murmurs softly.

"Is that what you want too?" The bar is open, of course, but the catering company has allowed the bartender to put out a small and discreet tip jar for the reasonably large party tonight, and you have a few more bills in your purse that you're happy to add to the jar.

"I think I'm going to stick with the pinot noir." He tells you, holding up his almost empty glass.

You order both glasses without hesitation and tip the very pleasant bartender, handing Sam his glass after it's put on the bar top. Just something nice to get the night back on track. At least as far as the two of you go.

"So I think that we should drink our wine and then dance." Sam suggests. It would be a good visual and romantic as a bonus. He's not calculating, but he does understand that optics are important in politics. It's a good opportunity to romance you and look good for the discreet photographers that are roaming around.

"And at some point, eat cake." Trying to lighten the mood a little is really your go-to for diffusing tension in any situation, and the air around the two of you feels a little thick, so you offer him a big smile instead of getting serious again.

"Eating cake is always a good way to spend a night." Sam agrees, smiling back at you.

"Morning." You haul yourself into the restaurant's kitchen the next morning when you arrive bright and early for your eight-a.m. start time looking vaguely less drowsy than usual. The other member of your Secret Service detail — Agent Sisson — has music taste more in line with yours and you'd listened to Duran Duran on your way back to town this morning. That and a cup of strong coffee means that you're feeling okay but definitely in need of breakfast.

“Wellllllll,” Sydney’s grin is bright as she eyes you. “I see the walk of shame has taken on a festive air.” She teases, laughing as she moves over to pour you a cup of coffee. “I take it last night went well?”

“I have enough time to go upstairs and change before work,” you grumble, though you’re smiling and accept the cup of coffee gratefully. “Usual boring party, but I bring you home a new cake flavor combination to try, and it was nice to see Sam.”

She snorts. “Nice to see Sam.” She mimics. “It’s like you ran into him in the store.” She huffs at you. “This is your boyfriend. The man you love.”

“And that’s why it’s nice to see him more than just one measly night a week.” Given that you have a few minutes, you hop up on a stool at the counter beside her work station and groan in appreciation at the slice of sweet Italian brioche and carefully cut piece of frittata she plates up for you without hesitation. “Oh my god, thank you. All I’ve had so far is coffee. We overslept and both had to run out to get to work on time.”

“Overslept…” she rolls her eyes and rubs her stomach. “I wish I could remember what that was like.” She grumbles. “This one is giving me heartburn all the time and keeping my sleep short.”

“They just really want to make sure you remember they’re there,” you tease, picking up a forkful of frittata and not even caring what’s inside. Everything Syd makes it incredible. “Twenty-seven whole more weeks of this, Mama. Get excited!”

“I am, I promise. But the kid can let me sleep in a little, right?” She huffs playfully. “So how was the dinner? You came back from the market in a hurry so I didn’t get to talk to you. Did you forget about this or was it last minute?”

“It was last minute. He got a spontaneous invitation to a potential supporter’s wife’s birthday party.” Oh my god, spinach and artichoke frittata, so fucking good. “She got the gift of bragging rights that a Congressman and the First Daughter came to her party, and a very nice bottle of champagne.”

“Sounds like a ton of fun.” Sydney likes hobnobbing even less than you do, preferring to be on the service side of fancy events. “So you ate mildly bland catered food and drank way too much wine?”

“Exactly. Which is why this tastes even more incredible than usual.” You point at your plate even while scooping up another bite. “So did you and Juanito ever decide what you’re doing tomorrow? I know you scheduled yourself for the dinner rush, but you’ve got to do something.”

“My husband is amazing.” She promises, beaming in delight. “He actually got us reservations at St. Regis for the Valentine’s Day Afternoon Tea.”

“Oh, that’s so sweet! It’s so utterly romantic I could barf.” The momentary flash of jealousy is nothing, and you’re genuinely happy that they’ll be able to get out and do something. They work so incredibly hard and never complain for a second. “It’s perfect, Syd. I want a full report.”

“I’m excited.” She admits, biting her lip and fiddling with her practical silicone wedding band that she wears in the kitchen. “I’ve also been promised a very relaxing massage and a few orgasms.”

“All things which you deserve very much.” You raise your coffee cup in salute to her and grin.

“At the very least.” She huffs, her own grin one of pure happiness. “I am growing Badillo’s baby.” She reminds you, as if it isn’t common knowledge at this point. She’s so proud of being with her soulmate and she cock her head at you curiously. “Have you given any more thought to that tattoo?” She pries gently.

“Yes and no…” It’s much more yes than no, if you’re honest with yourself, but the fact is that it’s probably not good to think about it as much as you have. It’s like a never-ending loop in your mind and you absolutely can’t shake it. “I just don’t know what good it would do to bring it up. Or who I would even bring it up to.”

“You know who you should bring it up to.” She huffs.

“Who?” You challenge, feeling like you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place without doing so much as being awake this morning. “My boyfriend of almost a year who asked me to move in with him and wants to start planning our future? Or the guy I barely know who invited me to dinner yesterday when I ran into him at Eastern Market and looked so hurt when I had to ask him to reschedule that I still feel like I kicked the world’s cutest puppy?” Clearly it’s been on your mind, and Syd is really the one person you can talk to about any of it. But admitting that you’ve been thinking about Marcus feels like cheating and you have always despised cheaters deeply. Being cheated on will do that to a person.

“You ran into Marcus?” Her eyes widen with the new information and she immediately sets down her spoon and walks around the counter to hug you. “Oh honey, talk to me. What happened?” She asks softly. While she might be pushing you to at least ask if you might be soulmates, she doesn’t want you to be upset.

“It wasn’t a big deal…we ran into each other and we finished our shopping together.” It’s such a relief to have a space to talk about it, and yet you know you’re blowing it out of proportion in your head. It was just a coincidence that you ran into him. Not fate. “We were both talking about wanting Indian for dinner so he asked if I wanted to go to the restaurant with him. We were just going to hang out. Then Sam called.”

“And of course you said yes to Sam.” Sydney doesn’t exactly approve of the way Sam seems to think that you wait for his call and will drop everything to accommodate him, but she doesn’t say anything. “How did Marcus take the change of plans?”

“He said he understood and that it was fine.” Which is, technically, what happened. So when you shift your eyes away from hers, Sydney makes a noise and you cave. “He seemed disappointed,” you admit, throwing up your hands. “But I’m probably just projecting that.”

“Anyone would be disappointed to not spend time with you.” Sydney defends immediately, always the best cheerleader for you. “Maybe text him and reschedule?” She suggests. “Friends have dinner, it’s not cheating. You aren’t going out on a date.”

“I know it’s not cheating.” Syd knows better than anyone why you hate liars and cheaters. “I texted him on my way in this morning to reschedule, but I don’t…I don’t know if he’ll respond. He was probably just being polite asking in the first place.”

“I doubt that.” Sydney had seen the covert looks that each one of them had given the other when they weren’t looking during game night. Both of them were curious and she is interested to know about that hummingbird tattoo, it’s not common, despite what you might say.

“Then it’s because I’m best friends with his friend’s soulmate,” you reason instead.

“No, it’s because Juan said that Marcus was trying to be polite but that he was interested in you.” Sydney tells you.

You feel the blood drain from your face shamefully fast, and your eyes dart up to meet your best friend’s. “He said that?”

“Yes.” She isn’t going to lie to you, Juan had told her that. “But, he also said that Marcus respects relationships and he’s not the type of man to make a move on you if you’re in a relationship.” She knows how you feel about that kind of thing and she agrees with you.

“Well…I mean…that’s good? Isn’t it? That just means he’s respectful.” Still , you find yourself sitting on the idea that Marcus likes you and being halfway between mortified and grinning. It feels ultimately childish and yet like your chest is filling full of something very much like joy.

“According to Juan, Marcus Pike is the best man, the best person that he’s ever known.” Sydney acknowledges with a nod, deciding not to comment on your giddy expression. “Even though he was busy with training at the academy, he was always helping with housework or running errands to take care of things.” She shrugs. “His ex-wife was a med student. So I guess she’s a doctor now.”

“It’s just a coincidence.” This mantra of yours is going to get old quick, but you have a partner. A long term one, even. One that until a week or so ago, you had thought you had a future with. Now that resolve is waning and you don’t really know how you started to question yourself so easily.

Sensing that you’ve dug your heels in, she backs off, giving a small shrug. “I’m sure it is.” She hums. “So what are your Valentine’s Day plans with Sam?” She asks. “Did he plan something romantic?”

“We’re going to dinner and then a community fundraiser in his district.” It doesn’t sound romantic, you will admit that, but anything too luxurious you did can be perceived in a very wrong way by the general public if it gets out. A Congressman and the First Daughter going to a spa getaway or the symphony would be seen as being out of touch with the people. “He…wants to talk about the future.”

“And you don’t sound like it’s a conversation that you are eager to have.” She sits down, her own herbal tea in front of her and she frowns slightly.

“I’m…not sure, honestly.” Without hesitation and without filter, the explanation about your conversation with Judge D’Amario’s wife and what Sam said at dinner with them comes tumbling out of your mouth and you can’t help but cringe to yourself when you get it all out in the open air. “Am I overreacting? Please tell me I’m overreacting.”

Sydney winces and gives you a small shrug. “He has known from the beginning that you aren’t the type to want to be a typical politician’s spouse and give up your career.” She reminds you. “Remember that night out in Alexandria? Where we were bar hopping? I had a very frank conversation with him about that.”

“You did?” Your forehead scrunches as you take a sip of coffee. “Then why would he think I would be willing to have someone else manage the inn?”

“I don’t know if I can answer that.” She admits quietly. “But I think he gave them his true ideal. You quitting and being by his side for all his accomplishments.”

“It’s not that I’m not proud of him.” Some would argue that that is what it signals, but you and Sydney are not those types of people. “He’s doing such good work, and I do want to have kids and a house and all that domestic stuff. I just…I don’t want to give up working. And I don’t want to spend the rest of my life standing behind a podium waving politely. I’m—I want to be me, not an extension of my partner.”

“I know that.” She reaches out and takes your hand. “But does Sam? Really? I think that he can convince you that it’s what you want.” She huffs. “I know he’s a good guy, but is he the right guy?”

“Not everybody finds perfect,” you remind her quietly, knowing that that is exactly what she has with Juan. Their version of perfect is about support, respect, and unending silliness, and you’ve always craved the same. But there aren’t many men in the world like Juan. Not many at all.

“That doesn’t mean you need to settle.” She tells you, squeezing your hand gently. “If you are happy, I’m happy. All I want is for you to be happy.”

“To be honest?” Closing your eyes for a second to swallow a sigh, the best you can do is shake your head. “I didn’t think I was settling. But now I can’t help but wonder…”

“Then you owe it to yourself, and to Sam, to make sure before you commit any further.” She suggests, knowing that you would feel horrible about divorcing later on.

“How?” It’s an honest question, since the situation is tangled up in guesses and implied maybes. “Break up with Sam because Marcus might be my soulmate? What happens if I’m wrong and I regret the whole thing? Sam would never take me back and I would deserve it.”

“Ask Marcus to show you the tattoo.” She hums. “That’s not cheating. It would be no different than seeing him in swimming trunks.”

“If he ever responds to me.” Which you sort of doubt. You sort of did just drop plans with him the second your boyfriend called. But you are the kind of person who makes your relationship a priority. You always have been.

“And if he doesn’t….” She shrugs. “You just deal with that.” She frowns. “But I would be upset if you had done the same to me.”

“I’m not saying he doesn’t have a right to be upset with me.” Marcus has a right to feel however he feels. He’s human, after all. “This whole thing is just so out of left field. Especially after spending all of last year talking about freedom of affection and being happy with a partner who isn’t your soulmate.”

“Except you had never potentially met your soulmate.” She pauses and shakes her head. “It doesn’t matter, if you don’t want to pursue it, don’t. Juan won’t say anything and I’ll just encourage him to hang out with Marcus on a guys night.”

“I don’t know,” you admit honestly, poking at the remains of your breakfast with a frown. “First let’s see if he speaks to me again. I gotta go change my clothes for work.” A heavy blanket of tension works on you that wasn’t there when you came home, and you drag yourself off the stool with a swallowed sigh. “Thanks for breakfast, honey.”

“I’m sorry.” She murmurs, wishing for a moment that Juan hadn’t run into Marcus. Hadn’t mentioned a tattoo that was throwing you into a spin. “I’m here whenever you need.”

“Thank you.” Coming around the counter, you wrap your arms around her tightly and inhale, trying to remember your yoga and let the stress roll off your shoulders and not carry it into the work day. “And I’m always here for you. No matter what.”

“I know.” She grins into your shoulder. “You’re my best friend, bitch.” She teases. “I will go to war for you, bury bodies and not even think twice.”

"No hesitation." You link your pinkies together, the same way you have since you were little kids. "I really have to go change now. But thanks for listening to me ramble and fret."

“Anytime.” She scoffs, waving away your thanks. “You’ve listened to me plenty.” Lately it’s been about being a good mother and not completely wrecking Baby Badillo, but she understands the need to just vent. You’re there for one another, both of you, through thick and thin.

______

Master Tags: @pixiedurango @chattychell @winter-fox-queen @lady-himbo @artsymaddie @princess76179 @paintballkid711 @missminkylove @pedrosbrat @ew-erin @sarahjkl82-blog @sharkbait77 @justanotherblonde23 @lv7867 @recklesswit @mylittlesenaar @f0rever15elf @gallowsjoker @steeevienicks @athalien @sherala007 @skvatnavle @thatpinkshirt @jaime1110 @girlimjusttryingtoreadfanfics @goodgriefitsawildworld @greeneyedblondie44 @littlemousedroid @harriedandharassed @churchill356 @ajathegreats-blog @haylzcyon   @beardsanddetectives @kirsteng42 @ladykatakuri @adancedivasmom @madiebear @tanzthompson @emilianamason @bigsdinger @xocalliexo @pedr0swh0r3 @avaleineandafryingpan @charlyrmv @avidreader73 @iceclaw101 @loveslide @elegantduckturtle @becsworld @julesonrecord @its-nebuleuse @itsrubberbisquit @mikeyswifie @guelyury @lizzie-cakes @for-a-longlongtime @vabeachazn @purplerain04 @weho2kcmo @madnessofadaydreamer

HHL: @haileymorelikestupid @anoverwhelmingdin @storiesofthefandomlovers

My Masterlist!

[mbappeward]

when he finds out about your stretch marks you were hiding - kylian mbappe imagine

Looking into the mirror, glancing at your hips, you traced each of your stretch marks with your eyes. Disgusting. That's how you felt and thought of you the whole time.

Having stretch marks was a completely normal thing almost everyone owned somewhere on their body, but you were never able to be satisfied with the fact. You never found them pretty or "normal" on you. You did everything to hide them, even from your boyfriend Kylian.

Not once has the thought of him being disgusted by your stretch marks crossed your mind, but still... -you never wanted him to see them.

Whenever you were intimate with each other, you made sure it only happened during the evening-night time so he wouldn't be able to notice your stretch marks on your hips. Of course, he didn't only want to be intimate with you in the night, but during the day as well, but whenever he was trying you just gave him excuses like "I'm not in the mood" or "I'm on my period".

He never knew that you were actually just hiding from him because of your stretch marks.

You let out a sigh, quickly pulling your shorts up to cover your stretch marks before you walked out of your shared bedroom.

"It feels so good to take a shower" you said as you entered the living room, watching your boyfriend kylian casually laying on the couch while watching TV. "What are you watching?" you asked curiously, plopping down next to him, resting your head against his muscular arm. "Nothing really, just switching between the channels" he responded, eyes on the screen.

You turn your back to see the clock on the wall, realizing it's only four in the afternoon, before turning back to the TV. "Everything is boring" your heard your boyfriend murmur, turning the TV off by pressing the button on the remote.

"Are these my shorts?" Kylian suddenly asked has his eyes met your figure next to him. "Yeah, they looked pretty cool so I wanted to wear them. I hope that's okay for you though" your voice softened as you realized that you've never asked for his permission to wear his shorts. "It's okay, the look cute on you" he leaned closer to your face, placing a gentle kiss on your lips.

The kiss felt good, well actually, amazing.

Kylian cupped one of your cheeks with his big hand, his other one pulling your body closer to his, making you straddle his lap. You found yourself wrapping your arms around his neck, kissing him passionately and lustful until you felt him going in for the next step.

"Kylian-" you called out, watching him raising his brows slightly, waiting for a response. "We can't today, I'm still on my period" you lied, watching him sighing and groaning mentally.

"I think this is the right time for us to talk" Kylian let out and you got off of his lap, narrowing your brows at him. "What do you mean?" you asked confused, feeling a knot in your stomach as you could imagine what he was going to say.

"You know I'm not a man who would ever pressure you into things you can't do or don't want to and I also respect each of your decisions, but there's something that just doesn't make sense to me and I need you to explain it to me" he admitted.

He knew it.

"I've noticed that during the day, whenever we make out together, you don't go any further except when it's night. You always excuse yourself by saying "you're on your period" or you're not in the mood-which I totally respect, don't get me wrong-but it's getting a bit suspicious and I just want to ask you if there's anything I need to know?" Kylian explained very calmly and for a moment, you thought you'd be able to admit everything and just tell him the little secret of yours, but a second later and you already felt too uncertain to do it.

"Oh! N-No, no Kylian everything's fine. It's also really weird to me why we only manage to do it in the night, but yeah I have my period and I also barely feel like doing it during the day because of my hormones I guess" you awkwardly laughed, watching him nod.

"I understand, thank you for clarifying" he said and you gave him a small nod, feeling the embarrassment through your entire body.

"But at least let me kiss those pretty lips of yours" Kylian said lowly, leaning to press his soft lips on yours. Your placed your hand on his chest, sliding it up until you reached the back of his hand to pull him closer to you.

The embarrassing feeling wasn't leaving you, you just tried to ignore it and let Kylian kiss it away for you, but deep down it was there and sooner or later you had to tell him the truth.

"Your lips feel so warm" He commented during the kiss, making your heart flutter in your chest.

He pulled away from your kiss, grabbed you by your hips and let you straddle his lap again. "I like this sight of you" he smirked and pressed his lips once again on yours, kissing you with the lust he had to hold back, because you couldn't be fully intimate with him.

Kylian has always loved touching your bare skin, whether during your intimate time or just randomly during the day. He'd always slide his hand under your shirt to grab you by your waist and pull you closer to him, his hand still resting on the spot or just caressing your skin under your clothing when you cuddled together.

During the greedy kiss, you felt his two hands pulling your shorts slightly down to have a good grip of your hips, but a gasp escaped your lips as you pulled away with a flinch.

"Y/n" his tone was cold, as if he knew you were lying to him.  "Kylian I-I can explain" you said frustrated, feeling like an idiot as you looked into his concerned eyes. "There's something I've been hiding since the day we started dating and I just never had the courage to show you or tell you, because I, myself, feel so disgusted by it" you confessed, his eyes wandering down to your hips.

 He took the fabric bet his fingers and slightly pulled on it to see what you were hiding from him, but the moment his eyes met your stretch marks, you could see him narrowing his eyes.

"That's what you've been hiding from me? Stretch marks?" he asked, and you gave him a nod, feeling a big knot in your throat as you forged yourself not to cry.

"Babe you scared me for a second, but stretch marks are completely normal I don't get why you were so scared to tell or show me. Actually you wouldn't even have to do that, because I don't mind them and it's nothing a human being should be informed about, before seeing a body. It's completely normal thing that belongs to us humans" he explained softly and you felt your tears forming in your eyes.

"I don't know kylian, I just feel so disgusting" you cried on his shoulder, feeling him caressing your back while hugging you tightly and carressing your hair. "Babe, please don't cry" he comforted you, and you sniffed before pulling away from him with teary eyes.

"Where you scared that I wouldn't find you attractive anymore after finding out about your stretch marks?" Kylian asked softly and you gave him a nod, watching his expression change into a sad one.

"Y/n, listen" he spoke.

"You're the hottest and most gorgeous woman I've ever came across and nothing, really nothing", he emphasized the nothing, "will ever make me see you differently, not your stretch marks or any other things" he confirmed, wiping your tears away.

"Stretch marks are normal y/n, and I would never think of you differently. It's saddening me how you think of yourself when in real life-you look so absolutely stunning and gorgeous" he said, making you giggle through your sniffles.

"Was that also the reason you didn't want to be intimate with me during the day?" he asked very careful, but you nodded, not wanting to hide anything from him ever again.

It felt good to let it out, to tell him the truth and making him aware of your current worries and thoughts, but you still felt very disgusting.

"Babe.." he softly said, pushing your hair behind your ear.

"You know what? Let me showing you something" he said and lifted you by your thighs, walking towards the bedroom.

"Look into the mirror" he almost demanded as he put you down, caging the mirror.

"What do you see?" Kylian asked and you took a deep breath.

"Myself" you answered simply. "And if you see yourself now, what do you think of yourself?" he continued asking.

"Without my stretch marks I think I'm actually pretty okay looking, but when I see them I just feel so disgusting" you respond, feeling his hands on your hips.

"Okay, and now let me ask you another question. If I pull your shorts down and make your stretch marks appear, do they change anything on your face? Do they change the shape of your body? Do they change your personality?" he asked and you shook your head as a response. "Exactly, they're just there and they don't change anything about you" Kylian said and you watched his eyes softening.

"When I look into the mirror now, I only see a beautiful woman, my woman", he corrected himself, "and all I see is your beautiful smile, your beautiful eyes and your beautiful personality you're carrying with you right here whether with or without stretch marks" he said and pointed at your heart.

"Don't focus on something so small that won't change you in any way. They're a part of you yes, but nothing you should be embarrassed about" he turned you around so your face would finally face him, your body pressed against his.

"And also, I think they look sexy on you" he complements you, making your blush heavily.

He was right.

It was a part of your body, but nothing that would change your entire appearance. It was still hard for you to fully accept it and look at yourself without any doubting or negative thoughts, but kylians words made you realize that you were just focusing too much on something so small which led you forget about your entire appearance and other parts of your body you actually like. 

"You're making me blush now" you said softly behind your hands which you used for hiding your face. "Don't be shy now what I'm saying is just the truth" he said and took your hands to reveal your face.

"You look very sexy with them on your hips" he smirked with lust growing inside his eyes, making you giggle. "Thank you kyky, thank you for all of your kind words that made me realize that it's not all about my stretch marks but me in general. I was focusing too much on them which made forget about the things I actually like on my body and yeah.. I wanted to thank you for that" you shyly thanked him, placing a soft peck against his lips. Kylian chuckled and leaned in to place his lips back on yours, kissing them gently before cupping your cheeks.

"Baby, I still respect all of your decisions and if you're still not ready to do it now it's okay, but I need you so bad right now" Kylian admitted frustrated, making you giggle.

"I want you too" you smile at him, before he crashed his lips on yours, kissing you with the desire he had to hold back the entire time.

(you can imagine what happens next lol)

{Please don’t ever be insecure about stretch marks, because they’re completely normal and make you unique!! 🤍}

[sourbinnie]

title -> celos genre -> angst? + fluff in the form of reassurance & love pair -> bf!hyunjin x gn!reader plot -> jealousy consumes you when you least expect it but at least your boyfriend is there to comfort you before making irrational decisions. warnings -> jealousy ofc + one swear word words -> 1542 lowercase intended

tan bonita que amenaza

cuando calla', me da' miedo

tan fría como la nieve

cuando cae desde el cielo

cuando sales por la puerta

pienso que no vuelves nunca

y si no te agarro fuerte

siento que será mi culpa

pienso en tu mira' / rosalia

it was no secret to anyone with two eyes and common sense that hyunjin was an incredibly beautiful person. he had this aura and this finesse that was brought down by the gods themselves and sculptured just like the gorgeous man he was. he walked like he owned the place, he talked like he knew what he was saying and reassured the rest with his maneuver and his confidence. he appeared to be polite, calm and overall just incredibly handsome with his ways. it made you doubt everything you knew about yourself, not in an insecure kinda way (or maybe that's what you were trying to deny) but on a deeper level of you as a person. 

what made him choose you? what made the artist choose you as his canvas, his muse, his work of art? and this is beyond the things he paints and sculptures. this is not coming from his appearance though, you were grateful he chose you, you were beyond thankful to him that he gave you a chance to love him and to get as a return the amazing significant other that he showed you he was every single day. but then you remember as you stay every single day in your apartment as you try to work from home, try to concentrate on the millions of emails you have to send that maybe he was just too much for you. maybe you weren't giving him what he needed, maybe you weren't the one & only he decided to have for the rest of his life. 

he walks out that door every morning to come back exhausted and you've been nothing but understanding about it but what if... someone who had the same lifestyle as him comprehended it better? no (y/n) please don't follow those thoughts, you say to yourself but it was too late wasn't it?

how could he not? 

how could he not prefer an idol? a beautiful, lovely, innocent idol...

you were beyond repairing when your head clouded you with these thoughts. there were no tears but there was a feeling like you were choking on air as you felt worthless in the presence of your boyfriend (who wasn't even here). what if he didn't like this? your jealousy, your envy, your greed, these emotions are only ugly to feel. you wanted him to yourself but at the same time you knew that would never be the case. it would be stupid to think that he would decide to stay with you when you were so selfish right? oh god the tears.

as if destiny knew you perfectly, the sound of the door shutting (as it did every morning) was now right there in your ears but it was still earlier than what you were used to. it wasn't even nighttime when you got up, grabbing the sleeve of your hoodie and wiping your tears away as soon as possible. 

"jagi, i'm home! are you still working?" he asked from the living room as i was trying my best to calm down and not panic. i came out of my hiding spot (my office) and saw him there. oh god did he look splendid, i just couldn't believe my eyes again as i tried to comprehend how a person like this could be with a monster like me. a jealous, nasty monster. maybe it was an insecurity thing or maybe my head was right and all of this would only lead to our downfall in the future. just thinking about it made me freeze on the spot and then the tears were back. "wait, why are you crying? are you okay?" he got closer to me and immediately his fingertips were wiping my pathetic tears away.

"i'm fine, just... long day i guess?" i tried to come up with an excuse but i knew he could see right through me. i wasn't good at lying and he knew that, "okay fine, i'm sorry but i think we need to talk jinnie".

"i'm listening but let's sit down and no more lies okay?" he said, i could sense his tone changing and hinting worry. i knew him like the back of my hand and i guess he was preparing for what i was about to say. as i sat down next to him, all i could think about was the end for us. the end of our relationship that we worked so hard to balance between my life and his hectic & unusual one. how our dates had to be hiding either in my old apartment or in his dorms. how i got to meet his parents and they reassured me that my korean was perfect. how i experienced absolutely every emotion when he asked me to be his significant other. now it will probably be the last time that i got to call him that. "i can't hear your thoughts, you know but i can definitely sense where this is going".

"i'm sorry hyunjin, i just don't know how to even say this" i said and breathed in deep & out. i tried to look for the right words in my mind but everything was still the same old negative bullshit that i always fall for. so i went with my heart and everything that i was feeling but before i could do it...

"you want to break up with me because of my schedules right?" he said, biting his lip nervously and now what invaded me was confusion. "listen i know i don't have time, i know i'm not the best boyfriend in the world and oh god i do not deserve you at all. but i'll find a way to work it out okay? i cannot lose you for the life of me".

"jinnie what are you talking about? i would never leave you because of that" i said and i could sense relief coming through him but then the worry striked again. "or anything for that matter" i added.

"then what is it, baby? 'cause i hate seeing you like this, it breaks me already that i barely get to see you" he confessed and my heart couldn't take it when he said things like these. it was just too much to bare and i just wished i wasn't such a greedy person, i wished that i couldn't feel jealousy.

"i've been thinking a lot about you & i, it's just..." i was choking on tears again but i pulled through and said it for once & for all. "i don't feel like i deserve you, you're just so understanding, lovely and beautiful inside & out, i've been trying not to get jealous lately not of you but of the people you interact with every day".

"what do you mean?" he said, trying to understand me better.

"i just feel like you're better suited with someone who would hold a position like yours, who goes through the same path, who just simply holds that level of beauty that i don't hold" i said honestly and bitterly. i couldn't stand being so selfish when it came to him but sometimes things are better if you let the person you adore the most go.

"babe please don't break up with me, especially not because of that" he said and then i felt his hand intertwined with mine. the look in his eyes was sincere and i felt the grip on our hands tighten like we both didn't wanna let go. "the only person who is gonna suit me forever & ever is you".

"you're only saying that because you feel obligated to" i said and looked down but i could feel his other hand lift up my chin and his glassy eyes didn't lie. "jinnie please don't cry, i'm sorry..."

"i should be the one who's sorry, i haven't been here and you have been feeling this way" he said and sighed as he tried to push his tears away but it was like waterfalls, just no way to stop them now. "(y/n) i need you more than anything, i don't want someone with my lifestyle, the reason why i come home to you every night is because you're my peace. i could not imagine being with someone else 'cause i simply only see myself with you for the rest of my life. you might not be an idol, a model, an actor/actress but you're mine, my (y/n), who i love so fucking much".

i could feel him getting closer to me and closing the gap between us with a sweet kiss. it was probably the most special one we shared because it was magical, it felt so incredibly good, it didn't last long but it was just what i needed. a reassurance like that was once in a lifetime.

"i'm sorry for being like this" and then i got shut down with another kiss. "jinnie lemme talk!" i tried but it was no use.

"i'm sorry, you're just so beautiful..." he said smiling and i could feel the pink tint on my cheeks as i looked at him again and wrapped my arms around his neck. "you'll never know how much i love you..."

i could only imagine...

[riskyraiker]

PS4!Peter Parker x reader

AN: Hello my friends! I had this idea with me for a while and I wanted to actually do it since the ITCH has returned to write some smut. If any of you want more of PS4!Peter i'll gladly write it😚😚Hope you enjoy.

Reader is GN but has a description of male anatomy. You can decide if it's a strap-on or a actual dick😚

Peter has a cock AND a pussy for you sick fucks (including me)

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Yes! Peter Parker is the spiderman, but being “half spider and half human” has its little downsides. Because once again Peter is in heat. Spiders don't sepcifically have a heat season, but somehow the radioactive one gave them. His partner is oblivious about this fact, about the heat of course Y/N does know Peter is Spiderman. Peter suffers from heat once a year, fortunately. All his spidermind can think of is being absolutely railed anytime he's close to Y/N, but at least his mind is focused during fights, until now.

“You guys are so happy to go to jail you guys run to me?” Peter remarked at the criminals who broke out of jail again. Hitting one of them in the air and kicking one of them to the side Peter’s mind suddenly started to fill with dirty thoughts. Fuck. Not now please. Peter thought. BEHIND YOU! Peter felt his spider sense warn him but he was too slow. One of the criminals got him pinned down. “Spiderman isn't as tough as they say.” They all laugh as Peter struggles against the hold the criminal has on him. Suddenly the laughing stopped and there was a thump, then yelling. As soon as the hold on Peter tightened it went away. “What’s got you mind so unfocused this time, spidey?” Oh god no.. he knew that voice. Y/N. That silky smooth voice just made his mind louder. “I just uhh…it was 10 versus 1. Not so fair isn't it?” Peter took Y/N's hand to help him stand up. They giggled at Peter's funny attempt at an excuse. God i love them. I bet you would love them pinning you down as well. WTF?! Calm down Peter, it's just the heat. Y/N started to get worried of Peter being so quiet and zoned out. “Spidey, you okay?” Peter snapped out of his thoughts and his eyes connected with Y/N’s. “Yeah uhh, yeah i'm fine! Just tired.” Y/N didn't look so convinced, but still went with what Peter said. “Wanna go home, hun?” Peter just nodded at the question and started to web swing away. Even though Y/N wasn't like Peter with a spider sense, they still had web shooters and could swing like Peter. As Peter landed on the wall, next to their room window Y/N landed on the roof of the building. Sneaking through the stairs and into the apartment Y/N went straight to lay down. Soon enough Peter joined them as well, lying on top of his partner. “Are you sure you're okay? You seem more than tired. You've been zoning out and living in your own head.” Peter had the urge to tell them, but was worried how they would react. Would they think he was weird or disgusting, or even leave him for it. “Peter, this is what I talk about. Hellooo? You in that head of yours?” Y/N poked at Peter's face and made him look at them. “Sorry. I'm just thinking of something.” Peter's body felt really warm against Y/N’s, the hold on his waist tightened, because Y/N didn't believe him. “Peter Benjamin Parker.” O oh that's not good, they never call me by my full name. “You either will tell me what's wrong or I'll force it out of you which I don't want to do. Unless it's something really personal.” Yes please force it out of me. I want you Peter's heated mind absolutely went wild about forcing something out of him. He felt his bulge get bigger “I..god I guess you need to know. I can't hide this forever. So you know that I was bitten by a radioactive spider which gave me these powers but it wasn't the only thing it gave me. Once a year, I err..somehow go through heat and it's so awful when nothing helps. Except when somebody absolutely railes me, but nobody ever has.” Peter hid his face in his partner's neck, being fully embarrassed of telling how uncomfortable he feels all the time when in heat. Y/N’s hold tightens and they hum at Peter. “I'm assuming you need some help? Because that's something I can offer.” Y/N smirked and switched position that Peter was below them. "You kno- You know you don't have to" Peter was embarrassed, yet his pants were getting tighter as his cock was almost rock hard at this point.

"Oh I don't have to. I want to." The dirty smile you have on your face makes Peter whine as you tug his pants. Peter lifts his hips to make things easier for you. Not long after his jeans are on the floor. Peter is covering his face as you admire his hard on under his boxers. Your legs are on each side of his hips as you crawl towards him. Unbuttoning his shirt Peter glances at you between his fingers and looks away again. "Am I that of a horrifying sight?" You tease him as the last button is open. "What?! No of course not, I'm just em- I'm embarrassed. I've never been this intimate before." Peter rambled as he took his shirt off himself. "Calm down, Pete. I'm just teasing." You lean down and slowly kiss his neck and start to suck hickeys on the soft skin as your hands caress the rest of his body. "Y/N please, I need you." Peter whined and tried to rub himself against you. Your hands tighten their hold and keep his hips down. "Not yet, you whore. Can't even have any foreplay. How much do you need me, huh? Wanna prove it to me?" Peter nodded and hid his face in your neck. You sit up, pulling Peter on your lap. "You said you need me so prove it. Hump my thigh if you want anything from me." Not even finishing your sentence Peter is grinding you lap, still with his boxers on. "Mmhm please let me take these off. It's in the way." Peter tried to switch angles yet the boxers were in the way. "Nuh uh, darling. You need to prove you need me so do it." Peter whined yet he continued to grind his cock on you best he could. A minute later you decided he proofed himself well enough. "Alright that's enough. Lay down for me." Peter wasted no time doing so, laying down with his legs spread. "You are such a slut, aren't you. Keep those legs closed for a minute at least." You start to pull his boxers away, doing it painfully slow. Peter's cock sprungs free and hits his stomach slightly, making Peter whine since he's so sensitive already. Peter wasn't even ready for it when his boxers find their place on the floor and you face diving between his legs, starting to eat him out and prep him just for you. What you didn't expect was how wet Peter was and how sweet he tasted, you could spend the rest of your life in between his legs.

Peter was already moaning loud enough that his neighbors might hear him, but he didn't care a single thing. Holding you hair tight feeling that if he let go you would vanish, finding out you were a piece of his imagination. You push your tongue in and that sends Peter over the edge already, cumming on your tongue. "NngH~ y/N, more please. More!" Peter was begging and cummed once already, yet you weren't even started. You pull your head away even if you want to continue, replacing your tongue with your fingers and pushing them in. You continue for a little, teasing Peter's G-spot until you push it with force. Peter gasped and threw his head back. Taking your fingers out and bringing them to peter's face, he takes them into his mouth and sucks them clean. "Good slut, doing everything without even asking." After Peter was done you tug you own pants off, pulling your shirt over your head but keeping your boxers on. You pump his cock a little and kiss the tip, but enough of teasing. Let's give that slut what he needs. You go for a heated kiss which Peter gladly returns, but he doesn't realize that your cock is already out. "You ready? Hope you are" Suddenly you push yourself in and Peter arched his back in pure pleasure. You hit every single spot that he needed to be touched, the only thing bothering him was the lack of movement. "Y/N..Baby please move. Wreck me, ruin me, do something. Please!!" Peter's hands were around your shoulder, holding you tightly yet you don't care about the risk of your back being marked with scars and scratches after this. You start to move your hips, starting off slow and increasing speed by time. Soon enough you're pounding Peter hard enough that the bed is creaking, Peter moaning in the same rhythm. Your hands on each side of peter's head, you change your hips angle and now your hitting the sweetest spot that makes Peter see stars. Abusing that single spot you start to go harder much as you can, the bed still creaking in the background and you listen to peter's moans fill the room with skin slapping against each other.

Moans, whines and gasps leave Peter's mouth as you suck on his neck while thrusting in him. Your other hand grabs his cock and gives it a squeeze making Peter moan your name, you start to jerk him off while rearranging his insides. Once again it sends Peter cumming harder than he ever has, this time cum spilling out of his top onto you, his stomach and you hand. "You like that? My own fuck toy to fill up when he needs me to. Ar- are you sure you need this or did you just want someone to fuck you until you pass out?" Peter grabs your face and pulls you to make out. You feel your orgasm creep closer as your hips stutter and unable to stay in rhythm that well anymore. Pulling away from Peter you lean forward to whisper in his ear. "You want me to fill you up? Gonna fill your pussy up with my cum just so you can keep it in as reward." Peter's hands held the headboard, but the pleasure was too intense since after a few thrust you hear something crack and you see peter holding a piece of wood in his hand. "Forget the bed! Please fill me up, breed me or something. Fuck." Tears of pleasure bubble in Peter's eyes as they start to fall already. "I wanna cum with you, please! Y/N let me cum with you." Who are you to say no to that. "If you can hold on for a little then yes you can." Your hips move quick and hard as possible as your orgasm nears. "I'm gonna cum, baby. Come with me alright." Peter nods as his eyes are rolling back. "Now baby, cum!" Your cock twitches and spills everything into Peter. His pussy squeezing tight doesn't help and the pleasure makes you moan louder than before. Your hips go still after you both rode through your highs. "You okay, Peter?" Peter is panting and his eyes are closed, but after a few seconds he answers. "That was...the best sex ever." Peter was lost for words and still out of breath. "Let's go take a shower, we need to clean up." You lift Peter up and carry him to the bathroom. Aftercare was done and you both were clean. (You ate him out in the shower and emptied his cunt of all the cum.) Lying on the bed, you both try to sleep. "Peter?" "Yeah?" "Are you feeling any better?" "Way better, I didn't know you were so dominating." You chuckle at Peter's surprise at your bedroom persona. "Well you said to rail you so I did."

Next morning:

You both woke up to the alarm next to the bed, you had work and Peter had some spidey things to do. Peter hits the alarm and stands up to collect his clothes. He didn't make it far until he fell. You sat up in worry for Peter, but Peter was already laying on his back and chuckling lightly, look of blame on his face meant to you. "A thing to remember next heat season; Have my next day off, because GODDAMN my ass and thighs are sore." You helped Peter up and he left to do his thing into the city.

Not my fault he asked to go harder :)

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AN: GOD I GOT BUTTERFLIES WRITING THIS!!! I just love ps4!Peter. PS5 looks way more younger so god no :D. HOPE YOU LIKED IT.

[jealousjersey]

promptober day 2: vampire

prompts by @joshfutturman dividers by @/steddiecameraroll

very rushed ahh i didn’t do any of these in advance

vampire derek danforth x mortal reader

You have been serving Derek for a considerable amount of time, spending nearly all of your waking hours with him. You were cared for... Maybe even loved... by Derek. If that was the case, then why hadn't he noticed it before?Two long, pointy fangs stuck downward in Derek's mouth. Despite its subtlety, you managed to turn it into an excuse to make his self-loathing even more intense.

You were unsure whether to inquire about it. and ultimately chose to carry it out.

You decided to ask Derek about the fangs, hoping to provide some reassurance or explanation for what you saw. As you nervously approached the topic, Derek's expression darkened, confirming your suspicions. He had been hiding this secret from you all along, and now that it was out in the open, you couldn't help but wonder what other secrets he might be keeping. The thought made you question the true nature of your relationship and whether it was built on trust or deception.The next time Derek seemed to be working on plans at home, you sat down next to him, and he timidly raised his hand.

"You know you don't need permission to talk."

"Oh, I'm sorry. You just seemed busy and"

"Go on with it.”

“Sorry, sorry! So um… I recently noticed something, and I just wanted some kind of explanation... It’s probably nothing, but I wanted to know just in case.”

“I’m busy. Hurry up.”

"Okay, okay, so..." Once while you were eating, I noticed you have fangs.”

Derek’s head peaked up.

“It’s probably nothing, but I only ever noticed while you were eating! It’s like they disappeared or something.”

You were interrupted by Derek pinning him to the floor by his wrists.

“Um… W-What’s happening…?” You were flushed, but very confused.

"you have to leave. now." his eyes darken as you've figured him out

“W-What? But why?”

“You know too much.” Derek leaned his hand in and started to clasp it around your throat.

“W-What wait!” You manage to choke out.

“What, do you have a proposal or something you’d like to tell me?”

You loudly gasped for air as his throat was released. "No, I... Are you a vampire, Mr. Danforth?”

“You’ll be gone soon, so... Yes, I am. Though it doesn’t matter much.” He put his hand back.

“Wait!” you locked eyes with Derek. “While I’m more than willing to fill you with the beautiful hope that’s going to come from killing me... I like living around you, Mr. Danforth... I love being able to serve you however you please... I’d never dream of ever telling anyone your secret! I rarely speak to anyone else anyway!” which was the truth; Derek keeps you with him almost always. You didn't have time for other people.

Derek seemed to think about it for a while, then pulled on your leash to bring him closer. “Does ‘However I please’ include using you to feed?”

“Feed…?”

“You know what I mean.”

“Oh…” you gulped. 'He did mean it like that'... “I-I mean… If it pleases you, of course I’ll do it!”

“Good,” Derek leaned in towards you’s ear. “Because I honestly haven’t been getting the nourishment lately.”

You gasped again. “Wait, do you want to do it now?”

“I mean… As I’ve said, I haven’t been able to feed in a while. And at least I’ll know whether or not you’re comfortable with it in the future. If not, I’ll just go on a kill streak as usual.” Derek’s eyes visibly trailed down towards your neck. “Though having my own living, breathing person to feed off of sounds... nice.”

You took a deep breath. “Well, let's do it!”

Derek straddled you, then bent down, hovering over the area between your neck and shoulder.

Derek bit down on your neck, his sharp teeth piercing the skin. You shuddered, his breath becoming ragged.

'This is taking... A little longer than I expected.' you moan out

Derek’s eyes widened, and he hastily got back up to face you.

“I apologize… Blood from a living person just tastes so much better than the blood I usually get from corpses on the street. I’ll be sure to hold back next time.”

“No, it’s completely fine! You, Mr. Danforth can use me however you please."

An uneasy silence fills the room, he sticks his thumb into you and feels your arousal.

He cleared his throat in an attempt to kill the tension. “Haha. Well. It seems that the rumor is correct, then”

“...What rumor…?”

“Oh, the one that vampire fangs releases a chemical that makes the person being bitten aroused. I thought it sounded ridiculous, but..."

“That’s false.” Your eyes widened.

“What?”

“I’ve never even heard of such a rumor.”

you flushed. “I… Um… Haha, well-”

“Are you horny right now?

“I… Um…”

Derek leaned back into your crotch, and your lips tightened.

“So you are.”

“I’m very sorry. Mr. Danforth, you must be disgusted with me... I can leave you alone if need be! No, what am I saying? I should definitely see myself out. If you could kindly get off of me, I'll”

“Do I look disgusted? I’m just thinking... Derek put his mouth near the bite again, muttering against it. “I do need a way to thank you for allowing me to have such a good meal.”

“You… Can’t be serious... I’d never even dream of defiling your amazing body with someone such as myself.”

“Are you okay with letting me repay you with my mouth?”

“I mean, of course, but—”

“Then allow me.” Derek propped himself up on his elbows and started kissing you deeply, making you whine.

“Haah… I could probably finish just from you kissing me.

“It would be quite unfortunate if you came untouched... I want you to enjoy this as much as possible.”

“I’d enjoy anything you do to me, though.” Derek chuckled softly, his lips trailing down your neck as he whispered, "I'm glad to hear that, my love. Now relax and let me take care of you." With practiced ease, his hands roamed your body, igniting a fire within you that only he could quench. As the room filled with the sound of your shared pleasure, you knew that this moment would be etched in your memory forever.

Derek smirked and started kissing you again, this time bringing his hand down to palm you through his pants. You moaned into the kiss.

“A-Ah… I’m so sorry, but I’m close already.

Derek nodded and took his hand away, making you whine again.

“Don’t worry…” Derek started undoing your pants, pulling his dick out of his boxers. He took it in his hand and gave a small lick to the tip, making you gasp.

“P-Please… Keep going, please.” You brought his hands to grip Derek’s hair as you took him into your mouth.

Soon, you grabbed Derek’s hair harder. “I’m so close.. please.”

He came into Derek’s mouth, and Derek swallowed it. He came back up to kiss you gently, then nuzzled into his shoulder. As you lay there in the afterglow, Derek whispered sweet nothings in your ear, his arms wrapped protectively around you. "You're incredible," he murmured, planting soft kisses along your neck. You snuggled closer to him, feeling safe and content in his embrace. With a smile, you closed your eyes, drifting off to sleep with Derek by your side.

“Thank you so much, love. I’m very lucky to have you... I wonder what bad luck is coming for me after something like this. He chuckled.

���The bad luck is probably that you finished so quickly.” Derek tried to joke, but it didn’t really land because of his deadpan voice.

“Haha, I guess so.”

“its alright,… Next time I’ll make you last longer.”

“Ah, alright,” you smiled. As you lay there in Derek's arms, feeling content and satisfied, you couldn't help but think about how lucky you were to have him in your life. Despite his deadpan humor, you knew he cared for you deeply. The thought of future encounters with him made you feel excited and eager for what was to come. With a smile on your face, you snuggled closer to him, feeling grateful for the intimacy and connection you shared.

"did you say next time?" your ears perk.

[futurequibblerjournalist]

i just know you'd love an excuse to yap about these two because not enough people do so gimme your Pandora x Xenophilius headcanons pleeeaaasee < 3

Yess I don't think there's a time where I couldn't yap about these two oh my god

There's just so many good flavours of them. My personal favourite headcanon is Pandora Rosier and Xenophilius Malfoy (yes he's Lucius's younger brother—or half brother technically, in my head they don't share a mum) and they chose the name Lovegood together because that's something that represents their values while also distancing them both from their pureblood families.

They also both wore bright yellow to their wedding. Luna mentions at Fleur and Bill's wedding that her father taught her that sun colours at weddings brought good luck so I think it's cute to assume that Xenophilius and Pandora wore sun colours at their wedding.

I think Barty was the first person who got introduced to Xenophilius when he and Pandora first started going out (Pandora was testing the waters for telling Evan and also since Barty is a Ravenclaw like them, and a snoopy, gossipy one at that, it would be more difficult to hide from him). Barty fondly describes him as the humanised version of a wet cotton bud to tease them both but I do imagine they get along.

I've also played around with the idea of Barty and Xenophilius being roommates, so there's that.

I think Pandora was close with Sybill when she still attended (though I imagine Sybill to be older than both of them).

Xenophilius was really fond of plants and did great in Herbology—he also had his own little stash of items that were commonly hard to get one's hands on that he got through his father or trading/making deals during the holidays. It's partially because of this that he was part of the Slug Club (Slughorn also just liked the idea of having both brothers in his club after having already taught Lucius).

Pandora was creating spells even back at Hogwarts and she and Xenophilius would frequently try them out together.

In the summer you could often find the two under a tree on Hogwarts grounds making flower crowns for each other.

Pandora struggled more with leaving behind her pureblood family, not because of the values, but because of Evan who she was becoming increasingly estranged from. Only after learning about Evan being a Death Eater did she pull fully away.

I also think she's the one who came up with the idea of changing their names. She was heartbroken by Evan becoming a Death Eater and sought to distance herself as much as possible. Still, she held onto things from their childhood, things she later passed down to Luna in an attempt to make new, positive memories with the things.

Even though she abandoned her pureblood family, a lot of the customs and ways of acting were still deeply ingrained in Pandora and despite living a very carefree lifestyle she was still very tidy and cared a lot about being presentable (this reflected in Luna as well, up until Pandora's death). Xenophilius was the opposite, he was eager to be free in every way possible from what was expected of him.

The walls of their home are full of paintings. Not paintings in frames but just straight on the walls. They spent a lot of time painting together when Pandora was pregnant with Luna and somewhere in the house, they have handprints on the walls. They added Luna's after she was born. Since Pandora's died hers have faded and it's breaking Xenophilius's heart.

This is not a very specific headcanon but in aus I kinda like the idea of Xenophilius being the "hot and funny vacation boyfriend" except when Pandora describes him as such the skittles are standing there like 🧍🧍🧍🧍 "this is the hot and funny guy you've been talking about??? he looks like a ghost and he's currently collecting shells and seaweed???"

They're both huge nerds and they bond over being huge nerds.

Also, I love picturing them as like the Hogwarts parents of Gilderoy Lockhart, it's so sweet to me and I love picturing them being the only ones willing to listen to him ramble/brag about whatever thing he's done now or whatever his Bubbe has told him over the summer

Pandora loves to braid Xenophilius's hair and putting trinkets and shit in there.

You will 100% catch Xenophilius walking around in Pandora's super flowy patchwork skirts.

They both only have one ear pierced (opposite holes) and Pandora pierced Xenophilius's so they could wear matching earrings.

Both are big friendship bracelet wearers

They're the most queer coded straight ship to me

The first time Pandora heard Xenophilius curse was when he was trying to put together furniture for their house (even with the help of magic my man could not figure it out). Pandora proceeded to join him in yelling at the furniture, not because she couldn't figure it out but for support

They would 110% be the couple who goes all out on their Halloween costumes or just costumes in general honestly. Any occasion is an occasion to dress up

I don't think Pandora was soft-spoken at all, those two give me "he asked for no pickles" vibes through and through

Xenophilius does not believe in the concept of time and Pandora wants to be early to everything.

Xenophilius enjoys making jewellery and Pandora loves wearing it. Xenophilius also taught this skill to their daughter.

Please!!! Let's not forget Xenophilius being slightly cross-eyed!!!!!

Pandora was a Quidditch fan (she was influenced by Barty and Regulus, what can I say). The whole family used to go to Quidditch World Cups together and Xenophilius and Luna continued the tradition after Pandora's death

Xenophilius would definitely burn shit with Barty just because

He would also do graffiti with him in modern aus you can't convince me otherwise

These two would dance naked in their backyard in the moonlight

They would both be friends with Aurora Sinistra, Xenophilius bonds with her over stars and astrology while Pandora bonds with her over Alchemy and Spell creation

I feel like Pandora would really like fish/fishing (aquarium date when)

I think that might be all I can say about them for now but ask me again at literally any other time and I will probably have something new to ramble at you vnfjnbjgnbjg

ALSO!!! ACTUALLY!!! We as a fandom need to find a cute ship name for these two istg I need something. Idk what we have to work with but like,, silverpanda or silverseer (though this could be interpreted as Sybill because of the seer thing so???) or something I don't know, if anyone has any better suggestions PLEASE throw them my way

[stevesbipanic]

Boy For All Seasons

Part 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Ao3

By the time the first snow began to fall upon Hawkins Eddie knew he was falling in love with one Steve Harrington. Most nights the boys shared a bed feigning exhaustion or cold weather as an excuse to be close to each other. Eddie was weak to Steve's wishes and selfishly wanted to keep the younger boy in his orbit for as long as possible.

Christmas break had just started and Eddie was helping Steve hang up lights on the roof of Family Video.

"Ya know Stevie, usually when I help you with work it's to steal corporate America's heating system not freeze my balls off."

"I told you to wear I sweater when we left this morning."

Eddie's cheeks flushed and it wasn't from the cold, he mumbled a response.

"What was that?" Steve asked as he climbed back down and they headed inside.

"I said you're wearing my only sweater." Eddie was at least feeling warm now under Steve's gaze.

"Eds why didn't you say something, I could've survived!"

"I didn't want you to get cold, besides you look cute in my clothes."

Steve smiled softly, "Oh yeah? Trying to get me all dressed up a metalhead Munson?"

Eddie leaned in, a smirk dancing over his face, "Well you would look pretty h-."

"Oi! Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee! A little help would be nice!" Robin called, startling the boys apart.

"Sorry Robs."

"We helped with the lights little Birdie!"

"Mhm, Steve did the lights, you enjoyed the show, Munson," Robin muttered under her breath. It hadn't been long ago that the two had done the questioning gaze at each other revealing they had more in common than they thought. It made Eddie happy that it was unlikely Steve would punch him if he found out but even with all the flirting Eddie wasn't willing to risk it.

"What time are we supposed to be there on Tuesday, Steve-o?"

"Five, 'cause you know the kids are gonna want presents before dinner. Is Nance still picking you up?"

"Yeah she said she's got room, Joyce says she's gonna borrow Ms. Sinclair's car while they're here so she's got the rest of the kids handled."

Steve smiled and continued stacking the shelves.

"You guys having a little Christmas Eve party with the sheepies?" Eddie asked trying not to feel a little hurt that he'd been excluded.

"Hm? Oh shit! Eddie yeah everyone's coming over that day, you should bring Wayne too if he's not working."

"Dingus, did you forget to invite him?"

"Maybe," Steve said sheepishly, "In my defense, I assumed we'd be hanging out that day anyway."

Something warm bloomed in Eddie's chest at the assumption, at the inference that Steve would want to be around Eddie all the time.

"Wayne's working sadly, but you're right, we should probs sleep at yours Tuesday then so you have time to get everything set up." If Eddie hadn't been hiding his own blush behind his hair, he may have caught the light dusting across Steve's cheek at the word "we".

It wasn't long before Christmas Eve had rolled around. The Harrington house looked warmer when it was bathed in soft yellow Christmas lights. Steve had spent all day moving around the kitchen getting the feast ready, Eddie a dutiful taster and switcher of vinyls.

Before long the doorbell rang and a stampede of noise and laughter filled the home. Steve had been correct, the kids wanted to do presents first, and a mess of wrapping paper and cheers flowed through the living room. Eddie in typical Eddie fashion had dressed up as Santa Claus and helped pass around the gifts.

"This is for you, Eds," Steve said shyly passing a small gift to Eddie.

"Thanks, sweetheart." Eddie unwrapped the gift to find a chain with a black and red guitar pick attached.

"You've got so many rings, thought you needed something a little different, plus it matches your guitar."

"It's awesome, thank you, Stevie." Before Eddie could stop his own actions he'd leaned into Steve's space and pecked his cheek.

Steve immediately flushed, his hand reaching up to softly touch his cheek before standing quickly and telling the group that it was time for dinner. Briefly, Eddie thought he'd ruined everything but at the table, Steve still smiled and sat beside him.

Later, when everyone else had been taken home leaving Eddie and Steve warm and safe in Steve's bed Eddie thought about mentioning it. He thought about mentioning everything, all the flirting, the jokes, the costumes, the smiles, the stares, the fact that they slept together almost every night. But he didn't, instead, he whispered softly as they both softly drifted to sleep.

"Merry Christmas, Stevie."

"Merry Christmas, Eds."

Tags: @zerokrox-blog @smallfrogpleasedtomeetyou @eboyawstenn @sharingisntkaren @goodolefashionedloverboi @the-redthread @steddie-there @questionablequeeries @liorereshkigal @mightbeasleep @carlyv @my2amgaythoughts @gregre369 @space-invading-pigeon @bisexualdisastersworld @epiclazershark @sherrylyn628 @raisedbylibrarians @swaghettoni

[gyuspeach]

4:57pm

"Too loud, Honey." Gamer!Beomgyu's eyebrows raise, revealing his big doe eyes, peeling off one side of his headset to hear you.

"What was that, love?" he said in a hushed whisper. Quickly glancing back and forth from you and the violently illuminated screen in front of him.

"You're. Too. Loud," you enunciate, "I'm trying to study, remember." You force out a smile to hide you're annoyance; walking back to the place on his bed, sheets of homework and a book sprawl across it.

"Sorry, baby," he slides his headset back on.

You see. You didn't actually plan on studying here. You were in your dorm room when Beomgyu called you to hang out cause he missed you. You ofcourse protested as you had an exam coming up later in the week.

"Please, Baby," his whines ring out of the speaker on your phone as you try and scribble down the function of the amygdala. "I haven't seen you in three days, and I go home this weekend. I can't live that long without seeing you."

You can practically see the pout on his face, trying to appeal his case. You, on the other hand, are too invested in your notes that you didn't respond.

"Baby?"

"Hm?" You started, "sorry, I really need to study, Gyu."

"You can study at my place. I just need to be atleast with you," he pleads once again, "I miss you, pretty."

You sigh, giving in, "Alright, I'll be there in ten."

Beomgyu didn't plan on gaming tonight. But he hopped on when "the boys needed him". So now you're on his bed, jamming cognitive functions in your memory as Beomgyu screams to Heeseung to "GO TO THE RIGHT AND COVER ME- NOOOOOOO!"

That was your last straw. You're neck deep in homework from all your classes and have a midterm coming up, you walked ten minutes in the burning heat all the way to Beomgyu's apartment after he begged you to spend time with him. And now he's yelling at his screen for the past 15 minutes, and you doubt that the game will stop. All because he missed you.

"'Missed me' my ass," you sigh loudly and get up, gathering all your books and papers into your bookbag.

"Oh my God, guys. Did you see that?" He glances at you to find you packing your stuff. "Uh guys, hold on," he slides off his headset and gets up. "What are you doing, love?"

"Gyu, I'm stressed and I need to study," you sling your bad over your shoulder.

"Woah woah woah why do you have to leave?" He pouts, " just study here."

"You've been yelling for the past 15 minutes," you deadpan. "The only time your looked at me was when I got up to tell you to quiet down."

"I'm so sorry baby, I got-"

"I don't need your excuses, I just need to study," you interrupt and start your way toward the door, "I'll be at the campus library when you really do miss me." And slam the door behind you.

"Fuck," Beomgyu grabs his keys and puts on some decent pants. "Guys I gotta go," he speaks into the headset to hear protests on the other end before shutting down his PC. Grabbing his phone before running out the door to catch up to you.

A/N: idk how do this shit lmfao. My first thing I wrote 🙈. I got this idea after yelling at my brother to shut tf up when he plays his games in the fucking living room 😁. I hope yall like it 👉👈

[dema-heart]

A Present For You🎁

Hobie x gn! SpideyReader

A holiday party at your place! 😘🎁

And a face reveal!

lol I had no intentions of hiding really so why not use my Christmas get up as an excuse!

"Hobie! Come on, you're late!" You huffed as you dragged hobie through the door past miles, gwen, pav, and mayday all sitting around in your living room. You guys had given Peter and MJ the option of a nice Christmas Eve date.

"Oi, no need to rip my arm off! I told you not to wait up!" Hobie huffed as you dragged him to your bedroom, closing the door before finally letting go. He could hear the laughter and giggles of the other as you walked over to the bed.

"Yeah I know but I had picked out an outfit for you to wear tonight!" There was a spark in your eyes as you showed him the laid out clothes. He almost didn't care what they were as long as it made you this happy just at the idea of him wearing them.

You smiled brightly up at him as he looked the outfit over in silence. "Hobs? You dont have to wear it...I just picked them up last time I was out because i thought they'd look good on you.." Your smile faltering a bit at his silence, you looked away from him, biting your lip nervously to keep from over explaining.

"Hobie really... it's fine. I shouldn't have....HOBIE OH MY GOD!" Your whole body turned quickly as you faced away from him. Too quickly. You stumbled, falling backward only for him to catch you.

You look up startled eyes wide as you take in his smirking face and currently shirtless body. You squeak,jumping away from him, almost falling again if not for catching yourself on the door. You lean against it, face hot with embarrassment as you hear Hobie chuckle behind you, only flustering you more.

"You know...." he's behind you now, slightly leaned so he can talk into your ear. "You've seen me shirtless plenty of times." His voice is laced with amusement and a bit husky, which you refuse to acknowledge.

"Shut up! I panicked, okay!" You groan, banging your head against the door. "I didn't expect you to just start stripping!"

Hobie's hand comes to rest on your forehead, protecting you from a possibly embarrassing red spot to explain."Dont want you hurting yourself now."

"Thank you," you mumbled, rubbing your slightly aching forehead, finally calm enough to stand up but still facing the door.

"You're welcome, love." Seeing as you hadn't turned around yet, he shifted away, going back to putting on the outfit you'd picked for him.

After a moment of silence, Hobie speaks. "You know you're the one who closed the door and told me to change,right?" He teased, snickering as you grumbled something along the lines of shut up again.

Secretly, he was excited. He wasn't sure how to react at first seeing the time and thought you put into a simple Christmas outfit for him, which was the reason for his silence. He smiled softly as he got changed,not that you could see still turned to the door much to his amusement.

He took the time to look in your mirror once he was dressed, he admired the way the clothes looked on him not really an outfit he'd have picked out himself but still he felt comfortable and like himself in them.

"You can turn around now, doll. I'm all dressed and proper for you."

You huffed at his words before turning around.

"Ahhh, Hobie you look so good!" You yelled, moving over to him to excitedly check him out.

Your smile was blinding as you looked him up and down. You even made him do a little spin before looking into his eyes.

"Do you like it?" You grinned up at him, but your eyes wavered a bit.

"Only asking that after I became a living doll for you?" He raised an eyebrow, but the grin on his face told you he wasn't offended.

"I didn't make you a living doll. This was just part one of your gifts." You rolled your eyes, smiling at the small shocked look on his face.

"There's more than this?" He gestured to his clothes, and you nodded quickly.

"Of course! Now come on, everyone's waiting!" You move to leave, opening the door only to see the arachkids scrambling around the corner.

"What are yall up to?" You called out only getting snickers as a response. You smile, shaking your head before feeling hobie come up behind you.

"What's going on?" Hobie peaks from behind you as you're still blocking the door.

"Not sure. I just watched those three book it around the corner laughing. Are you getting any of your spider tingles?" You laugh as you hear him tsk and grumble something along the lines of its not spider tingles its spider sense. You happened to be one of the few spider-folk without these so-called spidey tingles and found it quite hilarious to tease them about it. You still had a version, but it was more like enhanced instincts than danger sense.

"No, my spider sense isn't going off. They were probably just ease dropping. You know they've been trying to get us together for months now. I keep telling them I'm trying my best here. " He smirks, wiggling his brows at you.

"Oh shut up, I planned on telling them today. I just wanted to make sure we were both comfortable first." You respond, rolling your eyes with a playful grin as you finally step out into the hall.

"You gonna tell them the whole story or the summarized version?" He teased, chuckling as you glared at him over your shoulder before walking away in embarrassment.

You two had been in a secret, not so secret relationship for about a week now. You'd been tip toeing around each other for months before that, unsure of what this was, but knowing you two were content and comfortable with whatever the other was giving. You had only stepped up and asked him to be with you when another spider person had asked you if he was single, and you boldly claimed you were dating. Only for them to confirm with Hobie later, who had shrugged much to your annoyance. So you asked him out then and there glaring down the other spider, fangs bared and all. And boom, you were dating, and only one person knew, and they were currently too scared to even look in your direction, let alone talk about you.

"Don't be like that! You know I think you're cute when you're angry" He called after you only making you walk faster, finally turning the corner to the living room with hobie right behind you.

"STOP! DON'T MOVE" You both freeze suddenly on guard when pav screams at you two. It's silent as you two scan for any threats. Gwen and Miles are next to him, grinning like crazy. Pavitr is doing air fist bumps and watching you two with the same grin the others have. And mayday is...where's mayday...had she webbed away again or climbed... suddenly, there's giggling and babling above you.

Confused, you look up, only to see Mayday sitting on your roof with mistletoe in her hands. She's grinning down at you two, and you turn to look at the obvious culprits of this scheme.

"Really guys? You roped sweet Mayday into a mistletoe prank?" The three shrug smiling faces showing a lack of sympathy for their actions.

"It was worth a shot. Gives you two a reason to finally act on all that tension." Gwen says, pulling out her phone definitely not to record her current favorite ship and two pinning friends,"first kiss. "

"Cupids a baby who shots arrows of love! Plus, what's Christmas without a mistletoe kiss!" Miles states while holding your Polaroid up, ready to catch the moment, and now it makes sense why he had asked to see it using the excuse of saving Christmas memories for the day.

"You guys are meant to be,okay, and if I had to use help from mayday to get you two on the same page, then so be it. It was either this or lock you in a closet. Gwen and Miles were the ones that suggested mistletoe instead." pav shrugs.

"Very funny, guys." You roll your eyes pretending to be annoyed, but the smile on your face gives you away. You go to step forward only to feel hobie's web tug you back.

Shocked, you turn around, hobie's leaning on the wall, a smug grin on his face as he points up to the still grinning Mayday who's waving the mistletoe around.

"You know the rules, luv. We gotta kiss, or it's bad luck or somin. Wouldn't want that now, would we?" There's mischief in his eyes as he crosses his arms, waiting for your move.

You can hear the three cheering behind you, and one of them, probably gwen, quickly hushes them.

"Hobie..." You stare at him, waiting for him to crack a joke and walk away or anything but gives you that soft longing look with a small smile on his face as he looks at you.

"Yes, sugarplum?" You smile at the switch to the Christmas nickname, knowing he's giving you an out by using the cheesy nickname.

Sighing exaggeratedly with a sweet smile on your lips you step foward watching the way he stands up straight, the way he searches your face to make sure your okay, and the way his red painted nails that'd you'd done for him twitch with the urge to reach out and hold you like he normally would leading to a kiss.

You wrap your arms around his shoulders, leaving a bit of space between you two. His hands on on your waist almost instantly tugging you flush with him before he's leaving down. Your eyes close head already titling to prepare for his kiss.

The press of his lips to your forehead has you opening your eyes and looking up at him a little disappointed. You furrow your brows, looking at him, the question written all over you face. He smiles, looking behind you at the three who are currently booing, before leaning down to whisper so only you can hear.

"Never said it had to be a kiss on the lips...unless that's what you were looking for, sugarplum" He whispers the word against your lips smirking playfully, just close enough they brush and you have to hold in your pout not used to hobie withholding his affections.

"Just kiss me already, jerk." You tug him in, making sure to press your lips against his before he could move or tease anymore.

The kiss is sweet and slow, just you two holding each other tight as your lips moved against one another's. The cheers behind you tuned out in favor of just feeling Hobie against you. The way his hands bunched your sweatshirt as he locked his hands and you in place. The way his neck was warm under your hands hinting to just how flustered he actually was by this. The way his lips pressed against yours in sweet, passionate kisses as he pulled away both your eyes opening to stare into the others.

Mayday's giggles once again brought you back, your ears suddenly picking up on the sound of her little hands unsticking. you step back from hobie, catching her quickly as she laughs and babbles, dropping the mistletoe to instead grab at you.

"Alright, alright let's get to the snacks! How does that sound Mayday?" You baby talk her, bringing your focus on her to hide how flustered you are and to dodge the other three's reactions to the kiss.

You spare a quick glance to Hobie, who's back to leaning against the wall and smiling at you with a lovesick look. You send him a shy smile back before hurrying to the kitchen.

As soon as you're out of sight, the arachkids surround Hobie. Asking if that was enough for him to finally make a move and ask you out. Hobie who was still looking in the direction you'd walked off to finally turned to them thinking for a second before breaking into a shit devious grin.

"The only move I could make now is marriage. I don't think we're ready for that yet" although the thought of marrying you didn't sound so bad...he shook his head as the three started at him in shock.

"Hobie..what do you mean?" It was miles this time who spoke up coming back quicker then the other two.

"Means, we're already dating, not sure what other moves to make when they asked me out last week." He shrugged, acting nonchalant but grinning hard as their shocked looks doubled.

You rounded the corner with the snacks and some cups of hot chocolate mayday current attached to your chest with webbing. All head turn to you and you freeze confused.

"WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL US!!?!?" The three shout as you look over to Hobie, who nods, giving you a small smile as he walks putting an arm across your shoulder.

"It's a Christmas miracle?" You give a sheepish grin knowing you're in for a long night of explaining, but the arm around your shoulder and the kiss to the top of your head is totally worth it.

[mrhowells]

Smallville 4x16

*this episode put me through it, also the character building for Lois is perfection (also, if you see any typos just close your eyes, it was late and I was emotional)*

Clark looks so suspicious😭😭 Jonathan too, the way he's eyeing that food lmaooooo

Please😭

"I'm willing to sleep in the barn." "No that's okay, Lois can sleep in the barn." LOL Clark

sass levels through the roof today for him

Look at how proud Lois is listing all of Lucy's achievements😭 She's the best wtf I love her

"Wow, that's impressive. What happened to Lois?"

He has the time of his life dragging her PLS

"You're gonna find that Clark's charm is an acquired taste, much like his sense of fashion." he had that coming

Lois said TRY ME BISH

pls even Lucy is noticing the tension😭

she wasn't playing with that shoulder punch💀

Yeah, Jason is not letting those stones go💀

I really feel for Lana, I feel like she just lives in constant fear bc there's always some weird shit happening around her

Lucy flirting with Clark, just pls no💀

"Lois I don't want you to get the wrong idea, but ever since Lucy came to town you've been grumpier than normal."

I love this whole conversation between them🥹

Also Clark making it so obvious he's an only child from a loving family, bless him

"You might be a little rough around the edges but as far as sisters go, Lucy could do a lot worse." EXACTLY

anyone who has Lois in their life won the lottery, not even an exaggeration she's the absolute best🤷🏻‍♀️

"I guess there was just a part of me that was always jealous she got out and I didn't."

LOIS BBY LET ME HUG YOU LET ME LOVE YOU

the way she's like 'oh fuck I was vulnerable, gotta blast🏃🏻‍♀️🏃🏻‍♀️', same Lois, same

Clark looks so worried too😭

this is so wholesome🥹

I think those electric shocks left him with some permanent damage because Jason seems obsessed now👀

Okay let me rephrase, he doesn't just seem obsessed, he's completely unhinged. They fried his brain🤡

Clark is in disappointed dad mode again, he's so natural at it too😭

"You're not mom alright, so stop trying to be." That hurt me personally, goddamn

LMAOOOOO

also, is this the first episode where we see Lex and Lois in the same frame?👀

Lucy you snake

LOIS DON'T YOU EVER SAY OR THINK THAT

To everyone who contributed to her feeling this way, I just want to have a talk

This is breaking my heart, the world doesn't deserve her😭😭

Their dad really failed at parenting HARD

no because this hurts fr, I want to hug her so bad

she deserves to know that she's wanted and loved, SOMEBODY TELL HER

I can't get over the fact that she thinks that her life is less important than that of her sister

Clark defending Lois is something that can be so personal😭 (She deserves a good support system and friends who have her back idc)

I'm getting very emotional about this excuse me

You know I love a character when I need everyone else to love them too. Like I need every other character on this show to appreciate how amazing Lois is.

"I'm a product of my father's breeding. He needed an heir. But your parents chose you out of love."

No because that's so important and I think it explains why both Lex and Lois are so (for the lack of a better word) fascinated with the Kents.

(ok I paused the episode and wrote like 4 paragraphs of character analysis prompted by that quote but idk what to do with them and if they make any sense, maybe I'll make a separate post🤡)

I need you guys to understand how much it means to me that he really cares about Lois😭

Not even in any sort of romantic context, just that someone genuinely cares if she's okay or not because she's obviously never really had someone take care of her😭😭😭

I mean listen, good for Lionel that he's not an absolute monster anymore but he really needs to stay out of Lex's business💀💀

WAIT A MINUTE HOLD ON.

HOLD ONNNNNN

Did Lana vandalize her own apartment? Or did she just hide the stone and whoever searched for it didn't find it? In any case she's learning how to play the game, good for her😌😌

Okay, first of all: More reasons to love Lois, she's self-aware and she can admit when she's wrong about something. Seriously I love her.

Second: Again, they way she's ready to be kicked out of the farm for something that wasn't even her fault??? MR. SAM LANE, SAMMY, GENERAL LANE, I'D LIKE TO HAVE SOME WORDS WITH YOU. Seriously though, this speaks volumes about how she grew up and it breaks my heart.

Third: The way she tries to be so casual and 'Lois' when she says it, I have very similar defense mechanisms and again, it hurts my heart.

"Yeah... actually I came here to tell you we have food in the oven if you're hungry."

Lois learning what unconditional love looks like through the Kent family is the only thing that matters to me, actually

"You know, all these years I thought I had my sister pegged but... in reality? She's a complete stranger to me." "Even if that were true, I think that if she called you tomorrow you'd be there in a second to help her."

I CAN'T DO THIS RIGHT NOW, HE DOES KNOW HER😭

SHE KNOWS HIM TOO😭😭

"I guess that explains why we're friends." "Oh, we're friends now?" "Well, I mean, I won't tell anyone if you don't."

Yes you are and I'm so glad bc you're the most amazing people to ever exist😭

Clark deserves someone like Lois in his life and Lois deserves someone like Clark in her life, yes I'm on the verge of tears AND WHAT ABOUT IT

CHEMISTRYYYYY

shoulder punch my beloved🥹

CHEMISTRYYYYYY

do you think these people knew they just created perfection?😭

🎶now it all begins🎶

written in the stars and all that, I love my OTP

More importantly though, I love Lois Lane she's everything and she deserves all the love in the world.