#or sh*ps but who knows

[sikoazayn]

"tranquilo carnal, tranquilo"

[asterias-corner]

I’m ranting in the tags because the topic is apparently sensitive on here

no tw or cw, just pissed off and concerned

[chestersturniolo]

soft/comforting!matt headcannons

Warnings; fluff, fluff, fluff, fluff, fluff, fluff, pet names.

soft!matt who cradles you bridle style on his lap whilst you cry into the crook of his neck. laying soft strokes through your hair.

“sh-shh-shhh baby it’s okay, it’s gonna be okay…i got you alright , i’m here, shhhh”

soft!matt who always knows when you feel uncomfortable in any situation, without you saying a word. he makes sure to give reassuring touches and squeezes. your hand,waist,thigh, wherever is in reach.

“y/n sweetheart we can leave, just say the word and i’ll get you outta here okay?” he whispers softly,grazing your cheek with his thumb.

soft!matt who runs you baths after a long day - using stress relief bubble bath, lighting small candles in each corner of the room. before undressing you and scooping you up,placing you in the cosy warm water. he sits on the edge of the tub, helping you wash the day away.

soft!matt who often surprises you with flowers or little gifts - no occasion needed - just because.

“hey look i got you this today-” he smiles sweetly “-it reminded me of you”

soft!matt who makes sure to kiss your forehead and the tip of your nose before going to sleep.

soft!matt who will spritz his cologne on Mr Wrinkleton , before giving him to you ,to hold close whilst he’s out of town.

“okay Mr Wrinkleton-“ matt starts, holding a pointed finger up to the stuffed animals face “-you better look after her while i’m gone”

soft!matt who has a polaroid picture of you mid-laugh tucked in his wallet. his favourite picture. a smile tugging at his lips everytime he opens it.

soft!matt who tends to all of your needs when it’s your time of the month. like he does everyday - but x100.

dressing you in his baggy clothes and tucking you in with a blanket on the couch, putting your favourite show on the TV for you to watch. before making his way to the kitchen to fill your hot water bottle.

“here baby” he says lifting his hoodie from your figure and sliding the fuzzy hot water bottle underneath. placing a delicate kiss on each of your cheeks.

PART 2

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

a/n ; 😭😭😭 i love writing soft!matt sm

also PS to the anons that have sent requests in , first of all thankyouuuu i love seeing them come through , second of all im not ignoring you i promise i just have quite a few to get through and im a procrastinating hoe🫶🏼

making a tag list soon so let me know if you wanna be on it✨

- 𝑺𝒂𝒈𝒆 ♡

[illdowhatiwantthanks]

Hi, honey! Could you please write something about Emily Prentiss having a teenage daughter who sh’s and Em finds out? I know you wrote something similar and it’s perfectly okay if you feel like this is too repetitive <3 Ps; you’re so incredible and I aspire to be able to write like you do!! <3

Here you go, Anon! It's true, I've had a lot of SH-related requests recently, but I really don't mind the repetition. If it's something people want more of, and it helps them feel safe and heard and loved, I'm happy to write it. ❤️ (and thank you so much I'm so flattered! <3)

Tiny

Emily Prentiss x daughter!reader Warnings: self-harm, discussion of self-harm and self-harm tools, mental illness, internalized homophobia, explicit language (please let me know if I've missed anything!) Word count: 1.8k

Summary: After your best friend moves away, you start to struggle with depression, loneliness, and self-harm. You do a pretty good job of hiding it for a while but your mom is a profiler after all.

You’d been so good, so good, at hiding it. Long sleeves. Bracelets. You kept the tiny, sharp travel scissors in your locker at school, disguised in a bag with fabric and buttons and needles. A sewing project, you always said if anyone asked. But no one asked.

The truth of the matter was that you didn’t have many friends. And Sophia, your best friend since second grade, had moved to Denver last year for her dad’s job. You’d sworn to keep in touch, sworn that you’d stay best friends no matter what. And you’d tried, you’d really tried. But the daily texts had turned into weekly texts. The every-other-night FaceTime calls became every-other-month. And every time you talked to her, it seemed like her life was better than ever. She had new friends. A new soccer team. Even a boyfriend. It seemed like every time you called her, she was with him.

It hurt when you realized that Sophia liked spending time with her new boyfriend more than spending time with you. But it had hurt even more to examine your own jealousy, your own inexplicable rage at her moving on, making new friends, having new experiences. The reality–that you liked Sophia as more than a friend–hit you like a gut punch. And you didn’t know who to talk to about it. Normally, you’d talk to Sophia. But you couldn’t talk to her about this. Honestly, you weren’t even sure you were good enough friends to talk about boys or girls or whoever anymore. She’d drifted away and left you behind.

You thought about talking to your mom–she’d dated girls. But she was so busy with work, so stressed. She tried really hard not to let on when she was home, but you could see how tired she was, how she nodded blankly when you told her about your day, her mind elsewhere. No doubt with the hundreds of psychopaths and murderers she investigated every day.

You didn’t know who you were or what you were. You just knew that you were lonely and hurt and so deeply confused. There were other LGBTQ+ kids at school, but they’d all been out since middle school. They had that unbreakable comradery that queer kids who flock together often have. And you’d missed it.

All the confusion, all the hurt, all the feelings, roiled inside you until there was no place for it to go except out. The first time you’d drawn the scissors across your forearm, the blood had surprised you, as had the brief moment where there was blood but no pain. But when the pain did hit, it felt like a balloon had popped, like something that had been growing and growing and pressing in on you had shrunk back down to a manageable size.

Of course, the shame followed. Of course, you felt terrible, guilty, ashamed, sick to your stomach. Of course, you cried when you thought about what your mom would say if she saw it, what Sophia would say. But even worse, you knew they’d ask why. And you were terrified to talk about why. So you put on your long sleeves. You started wearing bracelets. And you hoped that no one would notice.

But that night, after a quick dinner of takeout pizza and Caesar salad, your mom had asked you to wash up and, without thinking, you’d rolled up your sleeves to do the dishes.

“Oh my god!” your mom exclaimed, rushing to your side. “What happened to your arm!?”

It was so stupid. You’d been so careful. You’d kept this a secret for months and now, with just one fuck-up, you’d ruined it.

“Nothing!” you cried, squirming out of her grip. “I just… I scratched myself, that’s all.”

But your mom wasn’t stupid. She spoke six languages. She headed an FBI unit. She was the smartest person you knew. She profiled people for a living. And she could tell when you were lying.

“Y/N!” she chastised, grabbing onto your arms hard. She'd also trained in hand-to-hand combat so you were really no match for her.

She turned your wrists around so she could see the inside of your arms, and the look on her face nearly broke you. It was sadness, it was guilt, it was shock and disbelief and worry, so much worry. You stared at the ceiling, willing yourself not to cry, mouth clamped shut.

“Y/N,” she said, quieter, running a gentle thumb along your forearms. “Tiny, look at me.” A tear dripped down your cheek. She didn’t call you Tiny much these days. And you always rolled your eyes when she did. It was what she’d called you when you were little. I love you, Tiny. You're so strong, Tiny! You can do it! Everything’s gonna be okay, Tiny.

You sniffed and lowered your head to look at her, more tears falling. You saw that your mom had tears in her eyes, too, and it made you feel awful.

“How long have you been hurting yourself?” she asked, her voice calm and gentle, full of emotion.

“I don’t know,” you mumbled, sniffling. “Maybe like… six months?”

She let out a shaky sigh and nodded. “Okay,” she said, more to herself than to you. “Okay.” After a moment, she drew you into her, and you pressed your face into her chest, finally letting yourself cry.

“It’s okay, honey,” she cooed, smoothing your hair as she hugged you. “It’s gonna be okay.”

When your sobs had calmed to hiccups, you emerged, face red and blotchy. Your mom wiped your face with her hands and motioned to the kitchen table. “This might be hard for you,” she started, looking at you earnestly. “But we need to talk about it. Go ahead and sit down. I’m gonna make us some tea.”

You took deep, soothing breaths as your mom set a steeping cup of chamomile in front of you, holding her own close to her chest.

“Are you mad at me?” you whispered, scared of the conversation to come.

“No, baby,” she assured you, squeezing your hand. “I’m not mad. I’m worried about you, that’s all.”

You nodded.

“Now, first things first,” she began, and you winced, sure she was going to take something away from you or ground you or something. “Do you know how to properly clean and dress a cut like that?”

You blinked in surprise. “Uh…” You were floundering. This is not where you expected this conversation to go. “I mean, I put band-aids on them.”

“Yeah, no,” your mom said, taking out her phone and making a note. “We’re gonna get you some alcohol sterilizer. Let’s see… Neosporin, gauze bandages. Probably butterfly bandages too, just in case. And whatever it is that you’re using for… this… you need to be sanitizing it before you use it.”

Your jaw dropped and you stared at her. “You don’t… want me to stop?”

She clicked the phone shut and stared purposefully at you. “Oh, no. Hear me loud and clear. I absolutely want you to stop. But… from what I know about self-harm, it’s a process. It might take some time. You might have relapses. And I just want you to be as safe as you can in recovery.”

“Thanks, Mom,” you said quietly, surprised at her response. You hadn’t really thought about being safe while cutting. Since cutting itself wasn’t exactly safe. Trust your mom to always be looking for ways to take care of you.

Your mom pursed her lips for a moment, as if thinking about how to proceed. And, once again, you were terrified that she was going to make you feel worse somehow, even if she didn’t mean to.

“It’s okay,” she stuttered, breathing out heavily, “if you don’t want to talk to me about what’s making you want to do this, but you need to talk to somebody. So tomorrow I’m gonna make some phone calls and we’re gonna find a therapist. And if your therapist recommends it, we might need to find you a psychiatric facility for a little bit.”

Ice-cold panic flooded your veins. “No, Mom, please!” 

“Hey, hey,” she said, grabbing your hands. “It is not a punishment. There is nothing wrong or shameful about your brain needing some help, okay? Even if it’s scary, we’re gonna do what we need to do to help you get better. Yes?”

You exhaled and nodded.

“Okay. So that’s what we’re gonna do.”

You were both silent for a moment, sipping your tea. You wished you could tell what your mom was thinking. You wished you could tell her what you were thinking. You so desperately wanted to tell someone. And you were scared. Scared that your mom would never look at you the same again. Scared that you’d never again be that same little girl, her Tiny. There was too much wrong with you.

You sniffled as your eyes filled with tears again. “Mom?” you squeaked.

“Yeah, honey?”

You asked what you were most afraid to ask. “Do you still love me?”

“Oh, baby,” she said, scooting her chair toward you and wrapping you in her arms. “Of course I do. I love you so much. I’ll always love you. You’re my little girl, you’re my Tiny.”

Your shoulders shook as you wept. “I just feel…” you cried. “I just feel like no one really loves me.”

“That’s just not true,” your mom said, rubbing your back. “I love you. All your aunts and uncles at the BAU love you. What about Sophia? She loves you.”

You cried even harder. “No, she doesn’t, Mom.”

Your mom brushed your hair away from her face. “What are you talking about? You talk all the time.”

And when you finally said it, it felt like a weight off your shoulders, like you’d been carrying a mountain for months and someone had finally lifted it away. You shook as you spoke. “She doesn’t love me like I love her.”

Understanding flooded your mom’s face. She nodded, and you could tell by the look on her face, by the empathy in her eyes, by the way she squeezed your hand and cupped your face and pursed her lips that she knew. She knew what it was like. She knew the confusion and the hurt and the self-hatred. She knew it all.

And it was almost better that she didn’t say anything. Anything at all. She just looked at you and understood. She just brushed your tears away with her thumb and let you finish crying. And when your sobs subsided, she held your hand. And she kept holding it. And after a while, she brushed your hair out of your face and said, “Everything’s gonna be okay, Tiny. I promise.”

And you knew–because she was your mom, because she was her, because she loved you and you loved her–that it would be.

[eand47]

Chapter II | Compass

Summary: You moved to one of the biggest cities in the world - Grand Line to pursue filmmaking career. Soon enough your path will cross with the vocalist of upcoming band called “The Neighbourhood”. At first you decided to be just friends - because it would be easier, but sadly as everything in life sometimes by taking the easy path we regret a lot of things.

Main characters: Portgas D Ace x Reader (female)

Supporting characters: Nami, Usopp, Luffy, Zoro, Sanji, Law, Deuce, Shanks, Buggy, Sabo, Eustass Kid, Koala (more to be add)

Description: Modern AU | Musician Ace

WARNINGS: sexual harassment, mention of alcohol and drinking, explicit language, self doubt

Word Count: 10.1K

<- previous chapter

NOTE: I really hope you guys like this chapter as I was surprised by myself and the fact that I was able to write 16 pages of material for it. I promise you soon there will be a lot of Ace x Reader moments, as of right now I want to establish a steady tempo of how things will go between them for the future, and also introduce you a little bit of the Reader’s already established relationships with certain characters. I recommend you listening to the song “Compass” by The Neighbourhood (the real ones hehe) when you get to the moment where they will sing it. Please feel free to leave a feed back as it’s important to me. I re-read it like six times now, and I hope that I have fixed all the spelling and grammatical mistakes, but again English is not my first language so I’m sorry if some things are unclear, let me know so I can fix it. Also if you haven’t seen “Fantastic Mr. Fox” I recommend the movie as bot only you will understand the references better, but because it’s an amazing movie. Enjoy <3333

PS: this is what the gesture from the movie looks like for those of you who haven’t seen it, as I’m afraid that I might not describe it good enough.

I’ve reached the street where “The Red Pirates” was located. I was taken aback for a moment when I saw how big of a queue was in front of the entrance. The bar was not very big, but it was quite spacious, and the vibe overall was a mix of underground place with a hint of an old rock and roll bar. One thing Shanks knew how to do best was making the most out of things. His cheerful and charismatic persona knew how to lure people around him, so it was no surprise to anyone when he made this place quite popular in this aera of the Grand Line city. At the end of every month, he invites well-known local bands to perform and usually it gets sold out, but I have never seen such a queue in front of it like the one tonight.

As I got closer, I noticed most of the people in the queue were around my age. The place was more known among people around their middle age, but I guessed from what Nami and Usopp told me I shouldn’t be surprised that there were so many young people here tonight. By the entrance were standing Beckman and Lucky Roux – a big smile appeared on my face when I saw them.

“Beckman, Lucky!” I shouted as I ran and hug them.

“Here is the real star of the night” Lucky lifted me off the ground as he squeezed me in a tight hug.

“Shanks is putting you to work tonight, huh?” Beckman patted me on the shoulder as he laughed at the face I made when he mentioned it.

“Please don’t mention it!” I whined. “On top of it my friends are going to be here, as apparently one of their friends is a brother of two of the guys in the band, so they all be having fun while I just watch behind the bar.”

“Oh, cheer up, beautiful.” Lucky chuckled at me. “At least we are here – if someone gives you trouble at the bar just let us know.” He cracked his knuckles with a grin on his face.

“(Y/N)” I heard someone shouting out my name behind me. Beckman, Lucky and I turned our heads to see who it was.

“Nami, Usopp” I called them as I gestured them to come. “I thought you are already in.”

“Well, someone here took too much time to get ready.” Usopp nodded his head at Nami, and she rolled her eyes at him. She was dressed stylish as per usual – with a dotted colourful bodysuit imitating bathing suit, a long denim skirt with some sparkling belts on top. Her long ginger hair let down nicely. Usopp was wearing a knitted light grey coloured sleeveless top – showing off his biceps, with some dark greyish baggy jeans. Two silver necklaces – one thicker than the other on his neck, his head was cover in one of his many durags that he owned – his look slaying as well.

“Anyway.” She looked at me. “Can you get us in, as we don’t want to wait on the queue, plus Luffy and the rest are waiting for us.” She grabbed my hand, squeezing it in hers.

“Yeah, of course.” I turned back to Beckman and Lucky. “Please, please, please these are my friends I told you about, please, please, let them skip the queue.” I childishly begged them, as Beckman shook his head at me with a smile and Lucky chuckled.

“We don’t need this whole performance to just let them in, you know?” Beckman said as he removed the rope that was stopping people to go in, letting Nami, Usopp. Some people in the queue complained how this wasn’t fare, but no one really paid attention to them.

“I know, but I have to be dramatic.” I stuck my tongue at them, we were about to go in when both Beckman and Lucky stopped Usopp and held him on the spot. Nami and I looked at each other confused of why they would stop him.

“You fella look oddly familiar.” Lucky said, as he eyed Usopp from the head to toes. “Any chance being related to Yassop?”

“Y-yes...” Usopp stuttered as he heard his dad’s name being mentioned. Even as absent father he has always found a way to cause his son problems.

“How so?” Beckman asked, intimidating Usopp even more.

“H-he is my f-father.” Usopp was ready to take whatever punches Beckman and Lucky were going to throw at him, as it won’t be the first time this would happen.

“Ha, I’ve heard his son is like a copy of him, but damn Yassop was working overtime when he was making you.” Lucky snorted out loudly as they let go of Usopp and patted him on the back. “Say ‘hello’ to your dad from us.”

“S-sure I will.” Usopp muttered as he glanced at them when they let him pass, the look of irritation visible on his face.

“Are you, okay Usopp?” I knew his relationship with his dad was very complicated and he hated to be reminded how much he looked like him. I knew that Beckman and Lucky didn’t mean to offend him, but they hit a nerve. I glanced back at them as they were back to stopping and letting people in.

“Yeah, I’m okay. Maybe I will be better if I don’t look so much like my dad.” He shook his head trying to forget what just happened. “Let’s go find Luffy, plus I really need a drink right now.” He said as he started to walk ahead of us. Nami and I just looked at each other without saying anything, knowing that he would need a minute to cool down.

“You haven’t forgotten about the free drinks, right?” Nami nudged me.

“Even if I did, I was sure you were going to remind me.” I nudged her back. “Anyway, I need to go and change – see you in a bit. Just find me somewhere by the bar and only order to me so you don’t have to pay.” We hugged each other and then I headed to the back of the bar where the staff entrance was. I was struggling to reach it, as there were so many people inside. I couldn’t remember to have seen this place so full before and knowing how many more people were waiting outside was stressing me out already. I reached the staff door, and as I was about to open it, when someone literally kicked it in my face and if I didn’t react fast, I was probably going to end up with a broken nose. I looked at the person in disbelief.

“You can say sorry at least, asshole.” I got even more pissed when I saw who it was.

“Watch where you stand spoiled brat.” He replied with the same annoyance.

Perfect, not only it was going to be a long and a busy night, but on top of it I must work with the biggest jerk I have ever met - Eustass Kid. Till this day I couldn’t get why Shanks kept him around, when they didn’t even get along; yet every time I’ve asked Shanks why, his reply was the same ‘He is the best bartender I have.’

I was going down the stairs towards where the ‘changing’ room was – if I could even call it that. It was the space downstairs where they store everything – from the drinks to the staff lockers. I started to take off my hoodie as I was still pissed from my encounter with Kid. I didn’t even pay attention that there were three guys sitting on the sofas, where the lockers were, until one of them didn’t clear his throat. I slowly turned around, the shocked look on my face from the embarrassment clearly visible on my face. They were trying their best not to look at me while I was standing in front of them with my bra on.

“I guess no one told you that we will be down here.” The blond guy that cleared his throat said awkwardly as he was trying to avoid looking at me. The other two – a black short-haired guy who was wearing a simple black tank top and a silver neckless, with tattoos covering his entire body and dark jeans; and the other one on his left side – with the light blue coloured hair, who was wearing glasses with a thick black frames dressed, in a dark blue t-shirt with some dark blue oversized jeans, were both looking away.

“Yeah, this little detail was clearly missed.” I covered my front with my hoodie. “D-do you mind turning around so I can quickly put m-my work shirt on?” I was trying not to die from embarrassment, avoiding looking at them.

“Of course, don’t worry we won’t be looking.” The blonde quickly said, as they all just turned their heads to the side not looking my way. I quickly changed and excused myself as I ran upstairs embarrassed of what has just happened.

*******

They all looked at each other and laughed.

“Poor girl I actually feel bad for her.” Deuce said.

“Yeah, I bet she wasn’t expecting to see anyone here.” Law agreed with him. They all laughed again as Ace came back from upstairs, caring with himself some bottles of cold water.

“Did I miss something?” He looked at the guys confused.

“Yeah, they got us a stripper, but she ran off after she saw Law’s ugly face.” Sabo burst out laughing as Law pushed him from the edge of the sofa.

“The only ugly face here is yours, you morron.” Law and Sabo started to wrestle and mess around, and Ace looked even more confused, as he threw a bottle of water to Deuce to caught.

“Are they for real? They really got us a stripper?” Ace sat next to Deuce as he opened his bottle to drink some water, watching his brother messing with Law. Deuce only shook his head and chuckled.

“One of the girls working here came, and she didn’t notice us as she was clearly pissed about something, she started to change in front of us without realising and when she realised it became quite award for everyone.” Deuce quickly explained to him.

“Was she hot?” Ace playfully raised his eyebrow.

“Your type for sure.” Sabo said as he sat back on the sofa looking at his brother with a smirk. “If you haven’t smashed recently ...” Sabo didn’t get to finish his sentence as Law slapped him with behind the neck. “Ouch what was this for?” he winced looking at Law.

“Have some manners man.” Law scolded him.

“Come on, it was just a joke.” Sabo tried to defend himself. Ace and Deuce were just observing them not saying anything, as this was Law and Sabo’s usual dynamic.

“Don’t worry bro, if I want to smash, I don’t need a wingman” Ace chuckled at Sabo.

“You sure? You are quite grumpy lately; I can always ask Koala to hock you up with one of her girlfriends.” Sabo continued to tease Ace, as Ace just rolled his eyes at him.

“Again, I don’t need you or your girlfriend as a wingman.”

“Law what about you? You are even grumpier than Ace.” Sabo turned to Law with a teasing grin, as Law glared at him without saying anything.

“What’s with you and playing a wingman tonight?” Deuce asked Sabo, as Sabo was clearly in the mood to annoy his bandmates.

“I just care about your well beings’ guys. You know if I can help for your happiness I would gladly do it.” He tried to play innocent, but the guys knew him too way, he just wanted to mess with them.

“Where is Koala, by the way? Is she not coming tonight?” Ace asked his brother, his girlfriend Koala never missed their performances and usually hung up with them before they start playing.

“Ohh she is coming a little bit later tonight as one of her girlfriends has a birthday today, and they are out celebrating.” Sabo and Koala have been together for five years now. They had met in high school, and from the start Koala had massive crush on Sabo, which later grew to having stronger feelings for him. Koala tried to keep all these feelings bottled up, until the night when Ace had thrown a ‘goodbye’ party for his brother, who was going away to college. She drank so much alcohol that night to gain courage to confess to him, only to end up in the bathroom floor, hugging the toilet while Sabo was there by her side running gentle circles on her back, as all the alcohol was coming back. While he was in there with her, making sure that she will be alright, she looked at him in the eyes and ‘I love you’ slipped from her lips before her mind could even procced it. Sabo didn’t have much time to react as she threw up again. The next morning Koala just woke up in Sabo’s room, not really remembering anything, but from that night on their relationship started as Sabo decided to not go to college in another city but stay in Grand Line so he can be close to Koala. And till this day Sabo haven’t regrated the decision he took – not only he was with the girl that he has been in love with since they met, but he also got the chance to do music, something he has always loved, with his brother and friends by his side.

“Oh, that is why you are playing a wingman.” Deuce chuckled at Sabo. “I’m also single, why don’t you play my wingman?” Deuce clenched his fist up to his heart pretending to be hurt by Sabo’s decision to ask only Ace and Law. Ace snorted at Deuce and his little “act”.

“Sorry man, but you don’t match the birthday girl’s type.” Sabo put his arms in the air as he was helpless to help his friend.

“What’s her type then?” Ace mocked his brother and his pathetic attempts to play Cupidon.

“Guys, don’t mock the messenger.” Sabo tried to defend himself. “Koala told me loud and clearly – ask Ace, if Ace plays hard, ask Law.” He mimicked his girlfriend voice and gestures. “I guess her friend type is grumpy dark-haired dudes.” He mocked his brother and Law.

“Well Ace, you were the first choice not me - so good luck with the ‘birthday’ girl.” Law winked at Ace, his eyes full of mockery.

“Shut up man, last thing I want to do is going on a double date with Sabo.” Hearing this Sabo threw his empty bottle as Ace’s head, but he dodged before it hit him.

“Again, I’m up for it – if you show me at least how she looks like.” Deuce made Sabo pull out his phone to show him the girl.

“Deuce you can’t be that desperate.” Turning his head in disbelieve Law exclaimed at him.

“I’m not, but also it’s been a while, so I don’t mind being the third option of the night.” Sabo handed his phone to Deuce as he had opened the girl’s Instagram. Both Ace and Law looked over Deuce’s shoulders, taking look at the girl.

“Not bad, but I’ve had seen better.” Ace commented, not really impressed by the looks of the girl.

“Nah man she is cute.” Deuce protested and Law agreed with him.

“But same as Ace I don’t want to be stuck on a double date with you.” Law nagged at Sabo. Ace shook his head, as these two started to mess with each other again. He sat back on the sofa and pulled his phone out from the back pocket of his pants. Scrolling through social media, he checked the band’s Instagram profile, something he hasn’t done in a while, as he wasn’t a big social media user, noticing that they got some new followers, but one piqued his interest.

“@idkthisfoxy “ He murmured to himself. The profile was private and there was no bio, but he clicked on the profile picture making it bigger. On the picture was this girl with a sock covering her face and only her eyes were visible, the same way the animated fox Ash from Fantastic Mr. Fox was portraited at the end of the movie. He snorted out with a smirk. “Could you be...?” He thought to himself.

“What’s with this smug smirk on your face?” Sabo interrupted his thoughts, looking at his brother with a raised eyebrow.

“Nothing” Ace brushed him off, getting up from the sofa, and putting his phone back in his back pocket. “Okay guys, I think it’s time to go upstairs and get ready to play.” He clapped his hands, making the guys stand up, agreeing with him.

“Let’s go break some hearts gentlemen.” Sabo loudly exclaimed, clapping his hands in the air, as the guys were going upstairs.

*******

I left the ‘changing’ room that was used for everything – from changing your clothes to storage all the alcohol and beverages Shanks has to offer, with a quick run up the stairs. Last thing I expected was someone to be there, let alone three men standing on the sofa there, which was something new Shanks have had add as last time I worked here, there was no sofa downstair. And speaking of the devil he was right in front of me.

“Shanks!” I shouted out, catching his attention as he was busy flirting with some woman. He turned at me with a big smile.

“There is my beloved niece.” He pulled me in a suffocating hug. I tried to fight him, but he only tightened his embrace. “Why is my Foxy mad? Did someone step on your tail?” He started to poke me on my sides only fuelling my annoyance with him.

“I’m telling you – run while you can. This man is insufferable.” I told the woman who he was hitting on, as she was looking at us while we were messing with each other.

“Oh Foxy, I can’t wait for the day you gonna bring a man over, the number of comebacks I have collected for you is unlimited at this point.” He ruffled my hair, as he turned to his fling for the night, telling her to give him a second, as he nodded at me to follow him.

“Are they unlimited, or you just can’t count after ten?” I tease him with mockery in my voice as he only shot me a glance.

“Someone doesn’t want to get paid double tonight, I see.” He nagged me with a smug smile.

“Dare.” I challenged him, and he laugh at me.

“Okay now seriously.” He stopped in front of the computer making me clock in. “You and Kid will be working together at the bar. No need to check ID’s as tonight everyone must be 20+ to enter, so if they are inside that means they are legal to drink. If it gets to much I might jump in and help, but I have three runners tonight so it should be all good. And most importantly if someone is bothering you let me know immediately, okay?” I mentally prepared for the long shift, off all the people I could of work with tonight, I would have to work with Kid. Shanks patted me on the shoulder and went back to his fling of the night. I huffed and turned around to look at the bar. The queue was already quite big, and Kid needed help at this point.

I got behind the bar, and Kid glared at me with annoyance. He was wearing one of the work t-shirts with the “Red Pirates” logo on it, his muscular body defined by it. His whole left hand was covered in a tattoo sleave – a realistic robotic hand, something coming out straight from the Cyberpunk universe. The tattoo itself was amazing, the person having the tattoo – was not so much.

“Move Kid, I will work on the bar station closer to the stage.” He rolled his eyes at me but still moved so I can go to the right side of the bar. “You can come and order here as well.” I shouted and people started to come my way. Nami soon came to me with a big grin.

“Hey there, I heard there is this cute bartender working here, so I made sure to come and check if the rumours are true.” She teased me.

“Stop it, I might get all flushed.” I waved mt hands in front of my face as we both laughed. “What do you want to drink?”

“A strong vodka and orange juice – less juice more vodka.” I started to make her drink, as I filled the glass with a lot of ice, as I knew that she loved her drinks very cold.

“Where are the rest of the group?” I asked her as I didn’t expect to see her alone.

“They are standing by one of the round bar tables close to the stage.”

“Less vodka – more juice, as requested.” I joked with her, handing her the drink.

“Ha-ha.” She mocked me as she took a sip of her drink. “Oh yeah that is strong.” Her eyes widen as she tased the drink. “Damn you really made sure there is no alcohol in it.” She sarcastically said, taking another sip. “By the way my friend Luffy knows your uncle Shanks.” Nami took a sit on the last tall chair left at the bar.

“What are you for real? How?” I was taking other customers orders as we were talking.

“I don’t know, you have to ask him.” She shrugged, taking another sip. “Oh God, please put some more juice in this thing, it is too much even for me.” I burst out laughing as she handed me back her glass to pour more juice in it.

“Nami, who is this beautiful lady, and why I haven’t been introduced to her?” A tall blonde guy wrapped his arms arounds Nami’s shoulders. She rolled her eyes and huffed.

“(Y/N) – Sanji, Sanji – (Y/N). Don’t mind his flirting – everything that has two legs and boobs is beautiful in his eyes.” She pushed his hands off from her.

“Nami that hurt, I only flirt with beautiful women, no matter the size of their breast.” He advocated for himself. “Nice to meet you (Y/N), I have been hearing a lot about you from Nami and Usopp.” He flashed me with a seductive smile. “Only good things of course.”

“Nice to hear this.” I smiled at him. “Would you like something to drink?”

“I would love to but sadly, I’m the one driving everyone home tonight, so I will have to deny your offer.” He chuckled sadly. I took a quick look at him and his outfit suited his smooth persona; he was wearing off-white shirt, two buttons unbuttoned around his chest, with a dark grey chinos style pants and belt. His wavy blonde hair was let down nicely as half of it was covering his right side of the face. I was told by Nami, that Sanji was handsome and super stylish, and now I understand what she meant by it.

“I’m sorry to hear that, Sanji.” I did feel bad for him, knowing how Nami and Usopp behaved when they are drunk, I couldn’t imagine what dealing with their whole friend group would feel like.

“I’m sorry that you must be behind the bar.” He was smooth, but this was not working on me.

“Hey, enough with the chitchats, those asses playing tonight are starting soon, so focus!” Kid came next to me and hissed in my ear angrily as I was talking to Nami and Sanji.

“You are right, sorry.” I apologised to him, knowing that I really got distracted by Nami and Sanji. “Sorry guys but I have to focus on work now, but if I manage, I will sneak to your table.” They both understood and wish me good luck, as they went back to their table.

“Of course, on the busiest night I have to put up with you.” Kid continued to whine. I just rolled my eyes at his whining. His bright spiky red hair matching his personality perfectly. “Hand me two more bottles of rom.” He spat at me.

“Kid are you ever in a good mood?” I asked him, handing the bottles.

“Yeah, when I get my dick sucked.” He smirked at me.

“Oh, you are disgusting.” I was left in shock from his answer.

“You asked, you got you answer.” He had pleasant look on his face knowing well that his comment irritated me. “Don’t worry, brat. You will never get this lucky.” His cocky smirk not leaving his face.

Before I moved to Grand Line, the last two summer since I was working for Shanks, while staying with him in his apartment, as my dad usually toured during the summertime. The first summer I worked here, Kid had already been working for a while. He hasn’t changed much since then. That first summer for a little bit – I did in fact, had a little crush on him. It was something in his edgy persona and style that made my nineteen old self attracted to him. But with time this attitude became more unattractive than attractive, and my little crush turned into pure disgust.

Of course, he had his good moments as well. One night two months ago, just before I stared university, it was just him and I working on a Tuesday night. It was a very slow night, so Shanks left early and left us to close the place. As we were going for last orders, Kid was behind the bar cleaning it, while I was picking glasses from empty tables, as we still had some customers left. On one of the tables where three guys, around the age of forty-something, were sitting I tried to reach for the empty glasses, smiling politely at them. I felt a hand on the back of my thigh going up to my butt and squeezing it hard. I jumped back in shock and dropped all the glasses I had in my hand. The broken glasses shattered on the floor. The men burst out laughing at my frozen expression, but their laugher was quickly cut, as the guy who touched me got his head smashed on the table hard. The bang of the impacted of his head hitting the table echoed through the whole place. Kid had seen everything that had happened, and he was seeing red. He dared the guy and his friends to think about doing it again. They all locked at him with fear in their eyes. The man’s face, who harassed me, was all covered in blood, one of his teeth has fallen and probably his nose was broken. I was just standing there still frozen from shock. Kid kicked them out, the rest of the customers, as well. He came close to me, trying to shake me out of the shock. I still remember the way he gently placed his hand on my face, cupping my cheek, his fingers feeling rough on my skin. He tried to keep his tone calm as he called my name. It took me some seconds to come back to reality. Kid was standing very close to me, in a way that we have never been this close physically. He looked into my eyes, and I could see how mad he was but at the same time there was this hint of worry in them. We stayed like this for a moment until he took a step back and removed his hand from my face. He cleared his throat and told me that he has already called Shanks, and he will be here soon. I just nodded at him as I was still speechless. He told me to go and change my clothes.

When I came back Shanks was already here, and he was like a fuming bull, swearing that he would find these men and make them pay. When Shanks saw me, he came to me and hug me tight, I started to cry in his embrace, as he gently patted my head. He then proceeded to tell Kid to walk me to Shanks’ place, as he was not letting me stay alone tonight, and that he would be dealing with the police and the bar on his own. I was about to say that this was not needed but none of them let me have the word. Kid and I were walking toward Shanks’ apartment, but didn’t speak at all. I broke the silence, thanking him for what he did, and that he shouldn’t have done it as might of now he could be in trouble. He shushed me quick, saying that he didn’t want to hear any thanks or apologies from me, and that he did whatever everyone else in his place would do. We reached Shanks’ place shortly after. I pulled my keys out to open the door, but Kid stopped me as he came close to me again, as when we were in the bar. I gave him a questioning look. He was looking at me like he wanted to say something, his scared eye twitching a little. We stayed like this for a moment then he shook his head, more to himself than me, and told me to take care of myself, as he quickly left. The next time we worked together he was back to his arrogant self, so I guess it was something from the adrenaline rush that he got that night that made him act, so strange. But we never really spoke about what happened; neither had Shanks told me what happened after with the police and ect., both of them act like this never happened and every time I’ve tried to speak about it with Shanks, he cut me off almost immediately.

“What you got all dreamy about sucking me off?” Kid smirked with me as I got zoomed out.

“Yeah, you wish.” I snorted. He glanced at me but didn’t say anything.

******

The place was full. I looked at my phone and it was a little after 10PM so the band should come out and start playing any moment now. The image of the three guys seeing me earlier in my bra came up in my mind and a chill of embarrassment ran down on my spine. Someone got on podium, but it wasn’t who the crowd was waiting for.

“Hello there beautiful people.” Shanks announced on the microphone. “When my precious, like a son, friend came to me two weeks ago and told me, that I should give this month gig to his brothers’ band I was very critical at first. Then he played me some of their songs and I was impressed. I was even more impressed that the thickets sold out in one day. One day – can you imagine.” The crowd cheered loudly – some screamed the band’s name, some whistled, and others applauded. “So a big shout out to my friend Luffy.” A loud screaming and cheering that I could recognise from miles away echoed around, but from where I stand, I couldn’t see my friends. “I’m not going to keep you guys waiting anymore – big and loud applause for ‘The Neighbourhood’.”

I stopped what I was doing to watch them coming up the stage. The first one to step on stage was the guy with the light blue hair and the thick black framed glasses, he went and took his position next to the bass guitar and picked it up. I hear some girls yelling his name ‘Deuce’ loudly. Next was the blacked haired, covered in tattoos guy, he took the guitar that was on the right side of the stage. A girl standing next to the bar screamed to her friend something along the lines ‘get me pregnant Law’ and I looked at her shocked. Then the blond guy came up on stage and started to raise his hands up in the air making everyone going louder and louder. Before he sat behind the drums, he sent a kiss to someone in the crowd and a big grin appeared on his face. My heart was beating fast in my chest as I was expecting the last guy to come up on the podium. There was this small voice in my head telling me that it will be him – the guy from the coffee shop today. But then this wasn’t some Disney movie, so probably them having the same name was just a pure coincidence. The three guys started to play some chords, and their vocalist join. I recognised him immediately. There he was – no beanie on, his raven black hair messy and freely falling around his face. I didn’t notice back in the coffee shop, but he was quite tall. It was something in his aura that made him stand out from the others. Now dressed in a loose fit black pants and leather belt, with his silk black shirt tucked in them, sleeves up till his elbows, buttons unbutton revealing his muscular chest – he was breathtaking to look at. The red beam neckless around his neck adding a nice touch to his outfit. The other three guys stared humming the back vocals.

Ooh, I know once you come to California

You won't ever look back

Ooh, just a little bit can make you wonder

You got it in

Ace took his guitar on with a smug look on his face. I was watching him carefully from the bar, far away yet not that far, as I couldn’t take my eyes off him. Then he stared to sing.

Hands up, it's a stick up

Nobody's leaving this room for a minute

He sounded even better live, than in their records. I was mesmerised by his voice. It was so melodic, yet a little rough only adding to his appearance. I was just enjoying their performance as they were super good – all four of them.

“I swear to God you are gonna make a puddle her.” I heard yelling in my ear as I turned around and saw Kid standing behind me. “Stop staring – start working, damn it.” I quickly came back from the trance that Ace put me in and got back to work. They were on their fourth song when I saw Usopp on the queue for the drinks.

“Usopp!” I shout out his name, hoping that he would hear me, over all the noise. He did look in my direction without realising at first. He looked again and saw me clearly this time and he made his way to the side where I was working.

“They are good, right?” Was the first thing he asked me when we got close enough so I could hear him. I eagerly nodded my head.

“Are you kidding me. They are amazing.” They were already on their fourth song and so far, everything was great from what they’ve played.

“You shall meet them; they are all great guys. If you have time when they are done performing come by our table and we can introduce you to them.”

“Yeah about that... I kinda already met them...” Three out of four already has seen me embarrassing myself, and I thank to whatever power was out there – God, universe – whatever, that Ace wasn’t in the ‘basement’ when I waked on the guys half-naked.

“What do you mean?” Usopp got confused look on his face by what I’ve just told him.

“Story for another time.” I brushed it off quickly. “What do you want to drink?”

“Rum and coke, please. Make it four.” I started to make the drinks as I was taking quick glances at the stage. They knew how to entertain the crowd. Their stage confidence was noticeable. “Will you be able to carry all four at once?” I asked Usopp handing him the drinks. He confidently nodded.

“The moment you are out of the bar, come to us.” He shouted behind his back as he was leaving with the drinks, too focused not to drop them or someone to push him.

******

The band finished with the fourth song and the blonde guy took over the microphone:

“A very big thank you to everyone coming here tonight.” He was a little out of breath, as I can only imagine what was it like playing the drums for half an hour without stopping for even a second. My eyes moved to Ace who was taking a sip of his water. He turned his head at my direction and our eyes met. Ace raised his eyebrows in disbelief and squeezed his eyes to make sure that he saw right – that he really saw the girl from the coffee shop. I panicked and squatted down to the ground hiding behind the bar. “Big shout out to Shanks for letting us play here tonight – please a round of applauses him.” He raised his hands to applaud Shanks, and the crowd followed. “Big shout out to all off you who came to support us here tonight, I see some faces in the crowd who were there for us from day one till today.” Another round of applauses followed. “And- and the biggest applause and thank you goes to my amazing girl – Koala.” He paused taking a breath in and out. “Koala, baby I love you. This new song that I wrote is for you, and you only. Sadly, I wasn’t blessed with the voice that my brother has, but I will be in the back pouring my heart out on the drums, enjoy everyone.” Everyone started to cheer and applause.

I got back on my feet again as I heart the last thing the blonde guy said. Ace just patted him on the shoulder and laughed as he took over the microphone again. He looked around as he was still laughing.

“I’ve had always imagined that the first time I would have to sing a song dedicated to a girl, will be for a girl I’m in love with, you know?” He joked with the audience. “I still haven’t met the one, but my brother did. I’m telling you the first time I sang his songs to his girl – it was awkward.” Everyone laughed, so did I but something more interesting caught my attention from what he said. “I told to myself you know, with time it will get easier, less awkward.” He made a dramatic pause. “I swear to God this never get easier. Bro just learn how to sing.” He turned to his brother in dramatic disbelief, as Sabo only shout at him to start singing. “And you see what I get as a ‘thank you’.” The crowd laughed again. “Anyway – the song is called ‘Compass’, hope you guys like it as much as our other songs. It’s coming out next week so stay tuned.” He announced before they start playing, looking again at the bar but I quickly turned my head around.

“Go pick around some glasses. You are not helping behind the bar anyway.” Kid told me, pissed at my behaviour tonight.

“Now?” I asked surprised. He just glared at me with a killer look, I huffed and got out of the bar.

They started to play, and Ace voiced filled all my sentence. I stopped to listen to the song as I was closer to the podium now.

‘If I don't have you with me, I'm alone You know I never know which way to go I think I need you with me for all-time When I need new direction for my mind’

The song sounded so sweet. I didn’t realise that Ace was looking at my direction as I was focused on listening to the lyric.

‘I know that you're not something to lose, now’

Then the way he sang the last line of the first verse swept me off on my feet, as I closed my eyes loving the way how smooth his voice was. Then the chorus stared, and they were so catchy.

‘I've got something to confess I keep you in my pocket to use You're my only compass I might get lost without you’

As he sang the second verse, hearing minutes ago his brother proudly announcing how much he loves his girlfriend, the lyrics were having such a deep love held behind them.

‘Could you tell me where to go? You're always there to help me when I'm down I'm lucky you've been keeping me around You're the star I look for every night When it's dark, you'll stick right by my side’

It was hard to explain, but it was like something magical was happening around me and inside of me right now. I felt like I’m lost in the moment. Ace started to sing the bridge of the song, and I opened my eyes. The most cliche thing in every possible way - for every movie, book, play or song happened - our gazes met. The time felt like it stopped for a second.

‘Like a magnet Hard to imagine ever changing Anything changing my way Baby, like a magnet Can't help that I'm attracted to you, I am Could you keep on guiding me? Please’

He smiled at me as he didn’t move his gaze from mine. When he sang: ‘Can't help that I'm attracted to you, I am’ - he hold his hands up to his head and shock them, a big smile sprad across his face, as I did the same thing back at him. I was in disbelief that he recognised me, yet alone did the whole ‘Fantastic Mr. Fox’ thingy. The last part of the bridge felt very personal: Could you keep on guiding me? Please’ I couldn’t hide away the grin on my face, as I just gestured with my hands a ‘maybe’, as he was looking at me with a playful questioning expression. Ace chuckled and winked at me. When he moved his gaze away from me, I quickly moved around trying to disappear in the crowd as my face as flaming hot.

The song finished the guys were met with loud and well-deserved applauses.

“You really are kind of a quote-unquote Fantastic Fox.” Ace chuckled on the microphone. I knew this was meant for me, even though he couldn’t see me, he made sure I could hear him. Trying to distract myself right now was quite a challenge. All I could think about was this moment of interaction, we had in front of so many people, yet no one knew what was going on.

**********

Three more songs and they were done with their performance for tonight.

“Thank you, thank you all for coming here tonight.” Ace thanked the crowd, loud applauses echoed through the whole bar. “Six months ago, when the guys and I decided to finally start putting out the music, that we have been doing for the past year now, we never expected that people will find such an interest in us. For everyone streaming our music and coming to all the live gigs we have done so far – thank you from the bottom of my heart.” He bowed with his head before he took off his guitar and left the podium. The rest of the guys bowed and thanked everyone leaving a bit after him.

Ace was already surrounded by group of girls as he stepped down from the podium. As every man on this Earth of course he loved the attention he was getting, especially from young and attractive women, but there was this particular girl in his mind tonight that he wanted to get the chance to speak again with. He was thinking of their short interaction today even after she left the coffee shop. It was something about her that piqued his interest, and this hasn’t had happen in a quite long time. Ace didn’t really remember the last time he seriously got interested in a girl for more than a one-night stand or a short situationship.

His experience with girls was quite big, even though it wasn’t always like this. Girls started to pay attention to him around the age of seventeen, when he decided that he must start going to the gym and change not only his appearance, but behaviour as well. The person who he was now, and who he was almost a decade ago, were totally different people. Ace used to be the grumpiest, meanest and enrage kid you could have known; even now-a-days he would catch himself acting like this little kid again and he hated this. Lost in his thoughts for a moment he didn’t realise he had zoomed out until some waved their hand in his face.

“Sorry I got distracted for a second, what were you saying?” He smiled at one of the girls in front of him.

“I said would you mind giving me your autograph?” She teases him with a playful look in her eyes.

“Sure, you have a pen or something.” He gave her the same look, knowing that she was flirting with him.

“There you go.” She borrowed a pen from one of the girls standing next to her. “My name is Samantha, in case you were wondering.” She turned her back towards Ace, moving her hair on the side so he could sign the top of her shoulder.

“What should I write?” Ace took a look at her, from head to toe – ‘nice body, nice ass’ he thought to himself, stepping a little closer to her.

“How about your number?” She smirked at him, as he chuckled at her flirty tone. He checked her out one more time as he licked his lips with a sly smirk.

“There you go, angle.” He wrote his number on her shoulder. He gave the pen back to her with a wink as he continued his way towards the back exit.

Ace wanted to be at peace for just a second. A few more girls stopped him on his way to the back exit, but they were less flirtatious than the girl he gave his number to. Finally, he made his way outside and the moment the cold wind hit his face he breathed out. He pulled out a package of cigarettes, taking one out and lighting it, taking a long puff from it. Closing his eyes as he leaned on the wall, exhaling the smoke. Having attention was nice, especially from women, but that wasn’t so important for Ace. The goal wasn’t women – the goal was to make great music that people could love and enjoy. After every show Ace catches himself in the ‘imposter’ syndrome – that he was not good enough, that the performance sucked, that he was bringing the band down, that he was not a good singer or a guitar player. All these thoughts were hitting him like a truck every time he got off stage, and no matter what people were telling him, he couldn’t shake this feeling. The feeling of never being good enough. He was lighting up a second cigarette, and he noticed it was the last one.

“Fuck, fuck , FUCK.” He cursed himself, taking a puff after puff from his cigarette. As he was taking his last smoke from the cigarette, throwing it on the ground, he thought of her, the girl from the coffee shop. Ace wasn’t the type to believe in fate or anything from this sort of bullshits, but he chuckled to himself. What were the chances that in one day both happened to be in the same place at the same time – two completely strangers. And she was pretty – no, she was gorgeous. There was something in her that was waking up a little spark of fire in him, and she hasn't even had a proper conversation, yet. When he saw her from the stage it was like the time had stopped and he couldn’t move his eyes from her. She was just standing there, enjoying the moment, living in the song – and then she opened your eyes, oh those beautiful eyes which he didn’t have the chance yet to know the colour of, but he was looking forward to finding out soon. He took a few more minutes outside gathering his thoughts, before he put his poker face back, walking inside confidently like nothing was going on inside of his mind.

******

I wasn’t looking forward to going behind the bar right now, even when I knew I had to, but instead found Nami and the rest of the group.

“There she is!” Usopp saw me first and yelled, waving his hand gesturing me to come faster.

Nami had her head rested on Sanji’s shoulder as she was completely wasted, but Sanji was more than happy to take care of her. On his other side was standing a black-haired guy, a little shorter than Sanji, maybe the same height as Usopp. He was wearing a red oversized t-shirt and baggy light blue jeans. His face was scared under his left eye but still he looked quite boyish with his big grin on his face – I guess this was the infamous Luffy. Next to him was standing Zoro, he nodded at me as he saw me. Zoro was waring bandana on his head, his fit not very different from Luffy’s, the only difference was that his t-shirt was white. Nami tilted her head in my direction and quickly jumped from Sanji’s side, but he quickly grabbed her the shoulders, as she almost tripped and fell.

“Damn Nami, how much you drank, tonight?” I have seen her wasted but never this much.

“Way too much.” Sanji answered me instead of her as she was leaning on him again.

“Luffy, this is (Y/N) – the classmate we have been telling you about.” Usopp interrupted, introducing us as we exchange a handshake.

“Nice to meet you finally (Y/N). I have been hearing a lot about you.” Even thought we were the same age there was something so boyish in Luffy’s voice.

“So did I.” I smiled at him. “By the way, your brothers’ band is great.”

“Oh, I know! I’m so happy that Shanks let them play here tonight.” His smile grew wilder.

“How did you meet my uncle by the way? Nami told me that you two know each other.” I was really curious to know how these two knew each other, especially after Shanks refer to him as a ‘son’.

“Long story short – I was quite a troubled kid until I met Shanks. Then I became even more troubled and reckless.” We all laughed at his joke. “But yeah we met –“he got interrupted by someone shouting his name. We all turned around and the blonde guy from the band was joining to the table, with a girl under his arm, which I guess is his beloved girlfriend. She was wearing a very nice light purple ruffled dress; her shoulder length light brown hair was nicely styled in a blowout effect. Her face was lightened by her big smile and her big dark blue eyes were glowing with love as she was looking at her boyfriend.

“Sabo, Koala – come. This is (Y/N), Nami’s and I best classmate and friend from uni.” Usopp introduced me to them as I awkwardly nodded the moment Sabo’s eyes widen in shock.

“No way, look baby this is the stripper I was telling you about.” He told Koala, as she slapped him on the chest as she turned to me. I was shocked from the comment he just made, so did everyone.

“Stripper? You are a stripper?” Luffy looked at me confused, Zoro slapped him behind the neck, shushing him.

“Don’t listen to him, his humour, is little broken. Nice to meet you, (Y/N).” She smiled at me.

“No don’t listen to me guys. Sorry didn’t mean to offend you, I’m Sabo, nice to meet you officially.” He reached out his hand across the table, and we handshake. The other two guys – the light blue haired and the tattooed one joined as well. As they saw me, they had the same reaction as Sabo, but didn’t make any comments instead they just introduced themself.

“Where is Ace?” Luffy asked Sabo.

“Ah, probably out smoking, I don’t know.” Sabo shrugged. “You know how he is after we finish every set.” Luffy nodded at what Sabo said and continue to talk to Law. Deuce was talking to some girl, who was wearing a ‘birthday girl’ crown, Nami was barely standing, while Sanji was making sure that she was getting enough water.

“I am going back to work; it was nice to see you all.” I tapped Usopp on the shoulder, interrupting his conversation with Zoro.

“No wait a minute, so you can also meet Ace.” Usopp stopped me from going as he hold my wrist. My heart skipped a beat when he mentioned his name.

“Some other time Usopp I promise, I really need to go back, otherwise Kid will kill me at this point tonight.” I pouted at him, and he nodded, understanding my situation and let me go. The universe had other plans whatsoever – turning around I bumped into someone’s muscular chest. He gently held me for a second by the shoulders.

“Easy there, no rush.” I looked up and my eyes met his. Ace was looking at me with a little smirk placed on his face. “Hey (Y/N).” He took a step back giving us some space. He remembered my name.

“Hey.” I smiled at him, tying to hide the fact I was a little nervous.

“You two know each other?” Usopp pointed a finger at us.

“No.” We both said at the same time. “We just met this morning by chance.” I explained to Usopp. “Oh, nice. What a coincidence.” He chuckled as he turned back to Zoro. Little did he know how right he was.

“So, you work here?” Ace broke the silence between us.

“Yes and no.” I laughed awkwardly. “Shanks is my uncle, so sometimes when he really needs help like tonight I just jump in behind the bar.” I explained, looking down at my hands as I was playing with my fingers, a habit I have when I’m nervous.

“Hey.” Ace bent his posture a little trying to catch my gaze, I looked back at him immediately. “I don’t bite – relax.” There was a little hint of teasing in his voice.

“I’m relaxed.” I brushed it off, trying to play it cool. “It’s just strange – from lending me your charger to hearing you perform tonight here was quite a surprise.”

“Yeah, I agree. You- you, um, did you enjoy it?” He ran his hand through his hair, awkwardly scratching his neck.

“I loved it.” I eagerly told him, a little too eagerly for which I cringed at myself. “I didn’t know about you guys until today. Actually, Nami and Usopp invited me to see you performing here, but again funny coincidence.” I started to babble. “Then they played me this song of yours “Cry Baby” and yeah – I can say I’m defiantly a fan now. Especially after I heard you tonight. But I had no idea it was you, until I saw you coming on the podium, so I was quite surprised.” As I continued to babble, he had crossed his arms in front of his chest making, looking at me with half lidded eyes, a little smile playing on his lips. “I think I talk too much.” I awkwardly chuckled. A wild smile spread across Ace’s face, he shook his head, as he laughed.

“What?” I playfully tilted my head at him, wondering what made him react like this.

“I think you need to listen to ‘Cry Baby’ one more time.” He teased me, without giving me any more information.

“Okay, I will.” I teased him back. We stood there for a moment, just looking at each other.

“Wait how do you know Nami and Usopp?” He was the one to break the silence again.

“We are classmates.” He raised his eyebrows in awe.

“Oh, a filmmaker. What are you the most lead to – directing, scriptwriting or...?” He asked me clearly interested in my answer. I was about to answer him when someone grabbed me by the shoulders and squeezed me hard.

“Ouch.” I turned around and I saw Shanks’ smug smile. He reached his fist at Ace, and they bumped it.

“Ace could I politely ask you to not distract my beautiful niece as she is supposed to work not flirt.” Ace nodded at Shanks’ comment, with a little smirk.

“We are not, I – I’m not flirting.” My whole face got flushed. I took a quick look at Ace, but his face was unreadable.

“Flirting or not – go behind the bar or I will make you stay and clean as well.” I knew he was serious, despite the smile on his face. I just nodded at him and left without even looking at Ace as I was quite embarrassed.

******

After some time, people started to leave, and the work started to decrease. I saw Ace and the rest of the guys starting to put their instruments away, getting ready to leave. We locked eyes a few times, but nothing more.

“Stop staring and forget even thinking about Ace.” Shanks interrupted my thoughts, his tone serious.

“Excuse me?” I looked at him confused, why would he even tell me this.

“You heard me.” He leaned his forearms on the bar, having a very serious face, something that I rarely ever see. “You only gonna end up hurt Foxy, so be thankful that I cock-blocked you.” He tapped the bar and went away, not letting me say anything further. I continued to clean the bar, Shanks words still in my mind, wondering what exactly he meant by that and a little surprised of how he worded it. “Hey, we are leaving.” I looked up and saw Usopp and the rest of the group behind him. “Thank you for the drinks by the way.” I waved my hand, brushing it off as there was nothing to thank me for.

“It was nice to finally meet you (Y/N).” Sanji told me with a wink, him carrying sleeping Nami in his arms.

“Yeah (Y/N), we have to properly go out these days.” Luffy cheerfully exclaimed, as he came closer to the bar to high-five me.

“We sure need to Luffy.” I smiled at him, Zoro just waved me ‘goodbye’, he wasn’t usually the most talkative but tonight he was extra quiet. They all stopped to say goodbye to Shanks as well, who was standing by the exit. I was still little affected by Shanks’ words and didn’t want to look at him right now.

“You know I discovered that coffee shop recently.” I turned around to face Ace, as I heard his voice.

“It is a hidden gem, right?” I gushed. He smiled at me and nodded.

“So I guess I will be seeing you there?” he raised an eyebrow at me, a little hint of tease in it.

“Definitely Ace.” I smiled at him. He kept his eyes on mine for a moment.

“(your eyes colour).” He murmured, I tilted my head at him wondering what he just murmured to himself. He saw my reaction and just flashed me a smile. “Till next time then.” He winked at me and then he left.

next chapter ->

[jyakkopotto-saddo-gaaru]

i think the main thing i hate about 'suicide units' in school health classes is how bad the advice is. like wtf??? no dont tell a persons parents theyre suicidal without the persons permission thats fucked up

instead of doing what school tells you, please follow these rules:

dont tell authority figures about someone's suicidal thoughts/sh unless you know theyre in active danger or they gave you permission. its a breach of privacy and trust, and it could put them in a bad spot if their parents are abusive.

please dont treat a suicidal person with pity/babying. its just plain demeaning. unless youre sure theyre okay with something else, treat them normally and just check in on them more.

and if YOURE suicidal, they dont even teach you how to deal with it or cope, they just give you 988/other hotline and send you on your way. its superficial care.

here are some ACTUAL tips if youre suicidal/struggling in anyway with mental illness:

if you cant do things the way youre supposed to, then cut corners. some is better than nothing.

the little things can make a difference. seeing your keychain always makes you feel a little better, so take that keychain everywhere. it wont fix everything, but a little bit of joy can go a long way.

find other people who are struggling like you. online spaces are a good start! however, if you feel like the environment is just making you feel negative and more depressed, you should leave to prevent further harm.

FIND THINGS YOU ENJOY. please. whether it be rhythm games, reading, drawing, hell, doing math equations, things that youre passionate about can be like a rock to support yourself when it gets bad. they make you feel better, they give you a purpose (though you dont need one to be worthy of life, remember that) and they give you something to connect to others with.

try to get some sunlight. vitamin D deficiency is awful and can cause serious depression, so letting the sun do its job can make you feel a little better. bonus points for either going outside or opening a window to get fresh air!

as soon as you can comfortably and safely do so, please try to go to a therapist to help you figure out how to cope with your symptoms. theyll still be there, but they can live alongside you instead of preventing you from living.

a lot of this stuff can be good for executive dysfunction too! if you need depression meals, a basic rule of thumb is to try and get all the food groups. if you only have instant noodles and some eggs, then make the instant noodles as cook the eggs in the broth. if you only have rice, peanuts, and some hot sauce, put those together. etc etc. there are tons of great resources out there too, ill probably reblog later with some.

most of all, of you seriously think youre at your wits end and might kill yourself after another issue, or maybe your parents yelled at you, or maybe you got laid off, whatever it is, call a hotline. things can be fixed, but if theyre fixed when youre gone, you wont be around to see how happy you could be :(

okay thats all. i hope i gave a few people better health education than school did. try to drink some water and maybe have a snack if you havent, and remember, i love you!!

(ps im not a licensed professional nor am i an expert, ive just been pretty depressed and suicidal for a long time, so this is speaking from mine and other's experience. if anyone else has something to say on it, i encourage sharing!! lets use our collective knowledge to defeat the pta mandated shallow health class)

[thefatesofspring]

You know who's stupid? The people who'd go below and beyond to justify every sh*t Rhys pulled, claiming he had "good" reasons and intentions for everything, while also claiming he's morally gray.

Sjm is one of those people. Write him off as the bad guy, make him do something very terrible to write him off as this morally gray character and then justify his bs and assasinate characters to make him look like the good guy. Wtf is he meant to be??? He cannot be the feminist king that cares for everyone and their mother while also have him be an asshole. Kaz and Carden don't need reasons for why they do sh*t. They do certain things for their own gain and they don't give a damn. They're clearly morally gray. Rhys? I don't fucking know.

Hi anon 👋🏾 again my apologies for only responding now😩

Couldn’t have said it any better myself & it further proves my point again that Rhysand isn’t written for the story let alone the plot!!

I’ve not read the shadow & bone series yet but the cruel prince series I have & to me Cardan is a perfect example of morally grey & executed really well! Ps I absolutely love Cardan! But with Rhysand & the things he’s done not just to Feyre but other courts/HL’s & the justifications are INSANE!!! Everything Rhysand has done has served NO PURPOSE or even benefitted anyone including himself and example of Rhysand doing shit that had the opposite effect of benefiting anyone including himself was when he went to the summer court & he, Amren & Feyre stole the book of breathing because he swore blind that Hybern was after it & if memory serves me correct Hybern actually stated that he was never after the book until Rhysand had taken it out of its home court…like wtf!! The actual big bad villain is telling you that your judgement was wrong & way off & somehow we’re still supposed to believe Rhysand did the right thing & is a “good person”?!!… when in reality if he had just listened to Feyre when she said perhaps asking Tarquin for the book & letting him in on what they think so many things could have been avoided including Tamlin thinking that Feyre was being controlled because now she’s out here lying, manipulating & stealing from other high lords and their courts.

Rhysand is only “feminist” to the women in his circle excluding Nesta & the irony is he never actually gives them choice just the illusion of it & yet for some bizarre reason people buy it🤷🏽‍♀️ he’s honestly just become a joke of a character that is so poorly written & executed. He’s not morally grey or even morally black he’s straight up horrible.

Not to mention ACOTAR is a legit watered down, YA, knock off version of Anne Bishop’s The Black jewel trilogy😩

[p-redux]

Sam Heughan dating news I can actually post because the dots connect!

Sooo, a couple of days ago I got this Anon in my Inbox 👇

I hate cryptic messages so I didn't post it and I had no idea who the other SH was. In the future, please, for the LOVE OF GOD, if you have info, send me FULL NAMES, I HATE initials. Anyhoo, since I didn't know who SH was, I ignored the Anon . Then yesterday I got this Anon 👇

Now I had a name. I went to her account and she's a single mother to a young son, a fitness coach, and she's from Scotland 👇

Here's an article about her from 2019. So, she had her son in 2018.

But I didn't see any proof of her being in the Canary Islands or connected to Sam, other than they mutually follow each other. And interestingly enough, she follows Karina Elle, one of Sam's exes. But that could just be fitness related. Then TODAY I get this Anon 👇

So I race back to her Instagram account, and sure enough, behind her on the wall it indeed says GRAN CANARIA Training! 👇

And THIS background is def not the UK. 👇

I DMed one of the Team who keeps track of all things Sam related and she DMed me this info 👇 She also let me know Sarah has liked some of Sam's posts.

I know Sam doesn't usually follow who he dates anymore, but that's not always the case. I'm sure sometimes he follows women he finds attractive, and then eventually DM's them, and then they go out on dates. That seems to be the case here.

Regardless, we know with 100% certainty that Sarah is in the Canary Islands based on her post. And we know with 100% certainty that Sam is in the Canary Islands based on my previous post with the fan sighting of him on the plane headed to La Palma, Canary Islands. Sooo, dots connected, my friends.

Who knows how long they've been dating, casual, or more, but as usual, and just for fun, I'm coining their couple name: #Samarah

PS. If anyone has a problem with this post, then this isn't the blog for you, go elsewhere...for the rest of us, go ahead and comment away!

[lovelyladyabsinthewrites]

The one of teenager/young adult HL sister, I can imagine after she show who's the boss on those two (aka translucent and the deep) i imagine Homelander just intimidating both of them like last warning for them.

Also I like to imagine that maybe Soldier boy ( who maybe never got kidnapped and set by Russian) who is still with the group of Vought but not much on screen but still doing mission here and there heard about what happened (aka little harassment on HL sister) he may or may not did also beat the sh*t out of them .... 👉👈 Just thinking don't mind me ;))))

P.s im happy that you like the idea , hope you don't mind me giving other ideias too!!

I think the moment Homie flashes his deadly sharp canines Deep and Translucent know they've really fucked up. He'll make their lives a living hell during their next meeting.

Soldier Boy is the definition of misogynist, but when it comes to his literal baby girl it’s a different matter. No one disrespects his kids. Especially his little girl. And yeah, maybe SB gets a little too fucked up one night and starts thinking about the incident more and more despite you telling him you took care of it. He doesn't like how those pathetic losers even dared to take advantage of you like that. And maybe he was fueled by these incessant thoughts and decided to take a drive into the city to Vought Towers. Everyone who sees them make sure to stay clear out of his path. Eyes are not blinked when he makes his way to the upper levels where only members of the Seven are allowed.

And MAYBE Soldier Boy totally breaks into their rooms to beat them to near death.

You actually bump into him in the hallway. "Hey da- . . . why are you all bloody?"

He won't say anything. Just pat your head with his bloody hand as he passes by you.

Its a well known fact you can take care of yourself. But it definitely doesn't hurt to have two loyal guard dogs ready to back you up.

ps. definitely loving these. missed writing about this fucked up little family 😂😅

[topsyturvy-turtely]

turtely's OTP challenge

read day 21 on ao3!

prompt: buying flowers for the other

summary: John finds flowers and poems in his locker. The notes are signed with 'SH', but John has no idea who his secret admirer could be.

Gen, 880 words, Fluff, AU - High School. Secret Admirer, Love Poems, Flowers, Shy Sherlock Holmes

or read it here (because i miss posting my ficlets on tumblr):

❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀

John opened his locker and reached for his French workbook. His hand stopped moving halfway there. A french daisy lay on top of his books. A note was wrapped around it...

"You love me,

you love me not..."

"What the...?" John mumbled, staring at the daisy in his hand.

"John!" Mike crashed into him from behind. "Why do you look like you just saw a ghost?"

"I... uh I think someone left a daisy in my locker," John held it out to him, but kept the note.

"Oh my gosh, is it a secret admirer?!"

"What! No!" John waved that idea off.

***

Three days later John just finished his rugby training when he came back to his locker. He opened it and rose petals flew over him. A note was amonst them.

"Roses are red,

violets are blue.

I might be mad,

but I like you.

-SH"

John grunted and kicked his backpack softly. Whoever thought it was romantic to put roses in his locker forgot about the mess they made along with it. He cleaned it up, but sone small part inside him queried who "SH" was...

***

The next time there was an actual flower bouquet in it. Tulips. John had to smile, he loved tulips. He caught himself looking for a note. There, behind his English workbook, he found it.

"I dream of tulips,

yellow, blue, the leaves are green.

I dream of my lips on your lips,

no inbetween.

-SH"

John laughed. The poems really weren't that great... however he couldn't help but wonder, who the secret admirer was. SH... Sabrina Hollen from his English class? Susanne Heeling from biology? Sabrina constantly joked around with him and Susanne seemed to stare at him but whenever he tried to look her in the eyes... she looked away, cheeks pink.

Or could it be... No, no way the serious chemistry nerd would hide flowers in... but what if? Doesn't matter. It's not him... and besides, John wasn't gay.

John hadn't noticed he had crumbled up the note in his hand. When he flattened it again, he saw a PS on the backside.

"Meet me tomorrow. 3pm at Speedy's."

***

"Just don't get killed," Mike said over the phone.

"I'll be fine," John allayed. "Okay. I'm here. I'll text you."

"Alright. Enjoy. No murders!"

John rolled his eyes, "I'll do my best to not get murdered."

"That's my man. Don't forget to text!"

"Yes, yes. Bye now!" John hung up.

He was here. At Speedy's. Going to meet his secret admirer (not his murderer, he hoped).

He sat down on a desk in the back, but he could overlook everything and he was close to an emergency exit - just in case. By now it was 2:57 and John was getting nervous. Would his admirer actually have the guts to show up?

The time passed and at 3:04 he slowly started doubting his decision to come here. He wasn't sure what - or better, who - he was expecting even.

'My lips on your lips, no inbetween,' an inner voice whispered.

Just in that moment the door opened and the chimes above it jingled. A shadow stood in the frame... and then it moved towards him, with a confidence, John admired.

When the shadow turned into a human with a face... John gasped...

"Sher- Sherlock?"

"Hello, John," the tall boy stood in front of the small table, where John had sat down.

"I don't- are you... did you put all the flowers into my locker?" John suddenly felt extremely nervous upon seeing Sherlock Holmes. He knew him from chemistry class, they did a few experiments together and had a great time. John had loved how the serious boy's face lit up when he tried out something new and it worked.

Sherlock twisted his face as if in pain. "It was Irene's idea. She was sick of me whining at her about how I wanted... want to know you better."

That made John relax, he asked, "Want to know me better as in," a huge grin spread on his face, "'my lips on your lips, roses are red, tulips are green, no inbetween' way or a... platonic way?"

Sherlock - still standing - just stared at him. He looked slightly in shock. "I never wrote that."

"Eh, close enough," John leaned back, waving dismissively with his hand.

"You clearly have no idea about poetry, John."

"Well you better be glad, otherwise I wouldn't be here on this date with you," John smirked.

The stiff expression on Sherlock's face melted and turned into a smile. He plummeted onto the chair opposite of John and sighed, "Alright, fair enough." Then he blushed. "Date," he pointed out.

John laughed. "You wooed me with flowers and poems, what did you expect?"

Sherlock smiled, his cheeks turning even redder when he laid a hand over John's. "I wasn't sure it was gonna work. Thanks for coming."

John felt his hand starting to sweat underneath Sherlock's, so he pulled it out and slapped his thighs. "I'm gonna grab a coffee. Can I get my date something?"

"Oh, uh... coffee. Black, two sugars."

John got up. But when he walked by Sherlock, he leaned down and whispered in his ear, "I am so happy my secret admirer is you."

Then, he headed to the counter to order.

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i would be SUPER happy if you gave this ficlet some love on ao3 as well! 🥰

tag list! (tell me if you wanna be added or removed please 💚) @justanobsessedpan @helloliriels @catlock-holmes @fluffbyday-smutbynight @inevitably-johnlocked @hisfavouritejumper @rhasima @forfucksakejohn @ohlooktheresabee @turbulenttrouble @so-youre-unattached-like-me @totallysilvergirl @peanitbear @train-mossman @loki-lock @smulderscobie @timberva @grace-in-the-wilderness @chinike @jawnn-watson @whatnext2020 @escapingthereality @missdeliadili @kettykika78 @musingsofmyown @7-percent @speedymoviesbyscience @astudyin221b @francj15 @ladylindaaa @we-r-loonies @mxster-jocale @sherlockcorner @noahspector @our-stars-graveside @jobooksncoffee @baker-street-blog @macgyvershe @myladylyssa @battledress @a-victorian-girl @dreamerofthemeadow @oetkb12 @ohnoesnotagain @mutedsilence @jawnscoffee @raenchaosandcozyadashofmurder @lisbeth-kk @quickslvxrr @compact-and-beautiful @kabubsmagga @sunshineinyourmind

[tarotmundomonde]

The person on your mind March 2024

love reading (feelings & actions)

Let me know, if it resonates and what you think about this type of a reading!

pick a number 1-5 OR an emoji 💟 🐳 🦚 🕸️ 📒

(ps. this reading is for practice and for fun)

1.💟 Okay, gotta be honest with this pile. At first, when I did the reading step by step, it seemed like overall you are dealing with someone, who does have some feelings for you, but whom to someone else is coming first. Therefore it looked like this person was keeping you as a back-up plan and ghosts you rather than directly rejects you. However, once I pulled all the cards to the table, something was off. So that interpretation might be true to someone. However, after taking a second look at your spread, it seemed to be your narrative about the situation, not the actual truth. Like you think that the reason why someone is not talking to you is, because they are in love with someone else and that it's the obvious. That it's time for you to accept that, you think this story is over and it's time to release it. However, this narrative of yours is not theirs. Looking at the cards, the connection is on pause at the moment, dormant, but the light is not gone. The connection is very much alive, it's simply on time out. This person sees you and you see them. And this person adores you. But it looks like things are lost in translation, you've misunderstood each other. You started writing different stories and chapters on your connection. You think they are taken? They think you are taken. So this person has taken distance from this connection, perhaps trying to release it. But your connection has a really strong heartbeat to it, no kidding. And whatever happens, there is a new beginning on the horizon. Your person has feelings for you, but they feel that they cannot tell you about them. It pains them, the feeling that they can't talk to you nor express their feelings to you. And as the month of March goes by, it really looks like they are madly in love with you. And it hurts that they can't just grab you into their arms and kiss you like there is no tomorrow. Again, they feel they can't tell you. As for their actions, it does look like rejection for sure. It's like they refuse to communicate with you, to talk to you. But the thing is that what they are trying to say is that they have dignity. And they are trying to get their sh*t together and you should, too. But in no way the cards are implying them ending things with you successfully. It looks like they want to make a point by putting the connection on hold. Like they are saying, if you want them, then it's only you and them. Kinda like by putting your connection on pause, they want you to realize that they are the one you have a heart-based connection with. Because this person is very aware that there is something deeper there between you two, so they are waiting. They've made up their mind and they will not budge.

2.🐳 Looking at the cards, it looks like you are in the middle of some kind of healing process. This person could actually be a distraction. Maybe they tried to use you for healing, but it doesn't look like you are supposed to know that. Online interaction could be emphasized in this connection. But it feels like this connection is perhaps short-lived or has some frustrating aspects to it, some repetitive pattens to it. There is definitely active spying going on here and mind games. But the attraction is real. This person could be quite attractive. So you two can't help but be curious about each other, but there is also dissatisfaction and isolation. And a sense of comparison. This person compares you to others and things. Currently, it looks like their feelings are more on the friendzone side towards you. They might have experienced you as a third-party that they are working on releasing. Like they are detaching themselves from you. But still, they kinda want to be there, they want to be friendly towards you. And as the month of March goes by, they could feel a little sorry, like they can't help but disappoint you. It's like they are saying that it's a pity, but now they have to fully prioritize another connection. It's like in their heart they want to tell you that they simply cannot be with you, they can't give you love or a relationship. Maybe friends could be possible, but nothing more. As for their actions, it's very passive. It looks like a break-up. But they are still there. It's kinda like you can see them happy with someone else. But oddly, it's like this person is expecting you to wait on them and they are expecting to see you try connect with them. Their attitude is that either way they will be happy and the one doing great. So it does seem that you two are still "connected", but perhaps for some healing reasons, like you are learning a lesson. They are bringing you some sort of drama and challenges to you. This person truly feels in their power and they seem to know the power of their attraction, so they are literally swimming in it. And it seems their presence is supposed to activate you to find your power, like you are meant to experience empowerment. So that's what is coming through for you in this reading.

3.🦚 Looking at the cards, this looks like a genuinely romantic connection with a lot of physical chemistry and a spiritual connection. This could also be a rather new connection. But even if not, definitely there is a feeling of trying to solidify the connection, a sense of wanting to protect it and to make it grow. Perhaps you are looking forward to taking the next step in this connection, for example a first kiss. But there are obstacles here. Whether it's distance or some sort of illusion and confusion you are dealing with. This person feels like they get and can get so much from you. But in their heart, they also feel like this connection could have a future. They feel like they want to be your companion in life and have you as their companion. And as the month of March goes by, it looks like they really want to speak about something with you but don't want to be the first one to bring it up. So instead, they are trying to stay as patient as they can and just wait. As for their actions, it seems to match with their feelings for you. They seem to take a more strategic approach towards you. Trying to figure out your next moves and to see, how they should play their cards with you. This person wants to be seen by you, they want to shine, they want your full attention. There will be focus on communication, on socializing with you, whether it's hanging out, going on dates or just texting/calling. But this person definitely graves to have intimacy with you. However, they want to feel special, they want to feel worthy. So it seems they might be seeking validation from you or some proofs that they are important to you. Like the fun and intimacy is not enough, they want to feel irreplaceable. So things will not move that smoothly forward this month. This person wants you to know the unsaid, to read between the lines. Like they refuse to say or ask, what they want to hear and know from you. So in the end, it's like they are waiting on you, waiting for you to realize something and to bring it up. This could be also simply them saying pick me to you.

4.🕸️ Looking at the cards, someone in this connection is all about the self-interest. They are in it for the benefits. It looks like someone here is looking for the right moment to make a move. Something about commitment or making a proposal. Also, delusion. Oh wow, so there is another woman, who entered the picture and she is like a wild fire in their heart. If they ever had any feelings for you, they are all gone. And as the month of March goes by, it looks like just like the wild fire came in, it's gone. Suddenly, it's over and they are in their blues. And that's when in their heart they feel like coming back to you feels right. Because they feel like you would welcome them back and that in your arms they would heal and feel safe and better. They seem to feel like you are a safe space, homey and comfortable and familiar. As for their actions, this person is extremely self-confident, whether it shows or not. They are certain you've been waiting for them. So it seems they plan to simply re-appear, as if nothing ever happened. And they'll come to get what they need from you. This person is more perseverant than you'd think and they know they are 100% sure that if they just wait, triumph is theirs. This person is like they know you don't want to be without them and that their presence is important to you and they know you want to see them. So it seems like they might try to come in and offer some kind of a more firm foundation to you. But remember, it's all about their self-interest, about what's in it for them. And this person believes you are obsessed with them and that's where their confidence about you stems from.

5.📒 Looking at the cards, maybe one of you or both are students or there is emphasis on studies or work. Something seems to be hindering the connection this month. Perhaps some limitations and complications, for example time constraints or business trips or being at a distance, etc. Otherwise, it seems the connection in itself is quite healthy and prospering. Indeed, it looks like your person doesn't have time for love. They seem to be so preoccupied with other things. They feel a bit conflicted towards you, because they feel like they don't have the time to see you nor talk to you. Yet, they want to do well with you but they can't. So, it's difficult for them. And as the month of March goes by, this person really wants to approach you but feels a little intimidated. They want to learn more about you, they want to get to know you better. But they may feel like they need some encouragement from your side. As for their actions, this person really wants to be honest with you. They seem to have some concerns and fears, perhaps they feel a little trapped. But they would like you to take the lead and that you show them actively attention. This person really wants your attention and support. It feels like they do want to give you hope so that you wouldn't stop being into them and wouldn't stop showing them interest. This person does want to see your connection develop further. So this could be a bit of a test from their side towards you as well. To see, how much you truly are into them. And if the conclusion is they are sure about you, then it seems they do want to take the next step towards you.

[virgoilluminati]

World Class

chapter 1

next chapter

A/N: Hello, I know i have been absolutely M.I.A and again I apologise profusely. In all honesty, Uni life is beginning to take over all of my life and I have no idea how long it will be before I write again. However I thought I would post this before I go on a hiatus. Its a bit late but i am a massive MASSIVE fan of the englands football teams and i wrote a fic imagining that the reader was a female football player who is together with Jude Bellingham. This could honestly be a complete shambles and I wouldn't know, but enjoy 😊

Concept: Jude Bellingham x Reader, Platonic!leahwilliamsonxreader

Warnings: some angst but not really (ps this is with the girls football team that I wanted to happen, not the reality - so yes some people are on the team who weren't actually in it but sh, its a fic).

Word Count: 3.2K

@y/nmorrison_

Liked by leahwilliamsonn, judebellingham and 67,000 others

y/nmorrison_ Pinch me 🤏

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judebellingham Never been prouder 💕

leahwilliamson finally! You and me together! The duo we've all be waiting for.

lionesses: youngest ever lioness to date!

4 days ago

Since the earliest memories I could summon, I had been immersed in the world of football. It was a constant presence, an unspoken member of our family, binding us together in a shared passion. My dad’s unyielding devotion to our local football club, Brighton and Hove Albion, was something that bordered on the legendary. It began as a fondness and over time transformed into an all-encompassing obsession, one that cast its spell over our weekends and echoed in our conversations throughout the week.

As the club’s journey through the ranks of the footballing hierarchy mirrored its ascent in my dad’s heart, the rest of us became increasingly entwined in its narrative. Each weekend was a pilgrimage to the stadium, a sacred tradition that we upheld without fail. It wasn’t just a match; it was a spectacle of emotions, a symphony of chants, and a canvas painted with the vibrant colors of loyalty.

Even as a child, I felt the magnetic pull of the sport. It wasn’t just about the game itself, but the shared experience, the collective heartbeat that surged through the stands. As my family cheered, groaned, and celebrated along with thousands of others, I too found myself swept up in the ebb and flow of emotions that only football could ignite.

Perhaps it was the camaraderie, the sense of belonging to something greater, that had me captivated. Maybe it was the way the ball danced across the pitch, carrying with it the dreams and aspirations of players and fans alike. Whatever the reason, football wasn’t just a sport—it was a part of our lives, an unspoken thread that wove its way into our conversations, our routines, and our shared memories.

As the years rolled on, and the enchantment of those weekends at the stadium grew stronger, I began to realize that football wasn’t merely my dad’s passion—it was mine too. From the innocence of childhood to the threshold of adulthood, the love for the game had taken root in my heart, much like the Albion’s colors had embedded themselves in my dad’s soul. And as I stood among the fervent supporters, my voice merging with theirs, it was clear that my journey into the world of football was not merely by chance

*The cheers of the crowd blend into an exhilarating symphony as you stand amidst the throngs of fans, your heart pounding in rhythm with the chants. All around you, people are caught up in the energy of the stadium, united by a common love for the game that's being played out before them.*

*You watch with wide eyes, barely able to contain your excitement, as "Morrison" takes the field. The name echoes in your mind, carried by the fervor of the crowd. The sight of the player, skillfully maneuvering the ball, is mesmerizing. Every swift turn, every precise pass, every daring shot—it's a dance of artistry and athleticism that unfolds before your young eyes.*

*As you stand there, a spectator in the sea of supporters, something shifts within you. In that moment, amid the roars and cheers, you're not just witnessing a match; you're witnessing a dream taking shape. It's as if a door you never knew existed has swung open, revealing a world of possibilities you had never dared to imagine.*

*The air is charged with anticipation, the excitement palpable, as the football journalists seated nearby share their thoughts. "Look at Morrison," one of them remarks, their voice tinged with awe. "The way he navigates the field, it's like he's a step ahead of everyone else. His vision and control are simply extraordinary."*

*"Absolutely," another journalist chimes in. "His technique is impeccable, and he seems to have an innate sense of where every player is on the pitch. Morrison's ability to create opportunities out of thin air is what sets him apart."*

*As the match unfolds, "Morrison" continues to steal the spotlight, leaving the commentators and analysts in awe of his talents. "Did you see that pass?" one exclaims. "He threaded the needle between three defenders!"*

*"He's a true maestro," another adds. "A virtuoso with the ball at his feet. The way he orchestrates the game, it's like watching a symphony."*

*And amidst these exclamations of admiration, you stand captivated, your eyes never leaving "Morrison." He's not just a player on the field; he's a magician, a master of his craft. And in that moment, as the football world marvels at his prowess, a seed is planted in your heart—a dream to follow in his footsteps, to make your mark on the same field that's currently alive with his magic.*

*Unbeknownst to anyone around you, including the football journalists whose words paint a vivid picture of "Morrison's" talent, this moment will become a defining one for you. A seed has been planted, a dream sparked. The seed of wanting to step onto that very field, to wear the jersey of a national team, to dance with the ball just like "Morrison." And little do they know, the young spectator lost in admiration is you, Y/N, who will one day carry this inspiration into the very spotlight that now shines so brightly on "Morrison."*

From the age of three, you were thrust into the colorful tapestry of football. Those early memories are a mosaic of vivid sights, sounds, and emotions. You remember the thrill of entering the stadium for the first time, flanked by your brothers who were then 6 and 8, and your sister, who at 5, was as eager as any of you to be part of the excitement.

Back then, the Albion was more than a football team; it was a place where memories were crafted. It was the collective heartbeat of your family, the nucleus around which your weekends revolved. Each match day felt like a page turned in your shared story. The cheers, the groans, the jubilation—it was a symphony of emotions that resonated deep within you, leaving an indelible mark on your young heart.

As the years flowed by, you watched as the team underwent its own transformations. Players came and went, and the fortunes of the club swayed like a pendulum. And in parallel, you observed the changes within your family. Your dad, once a fervent and boisterous fan, began to carry streaks of grey in his hair, the marks of time etched on his face. Your brothers, who used to mirror the movements of their favorite players, gradually ventured into their own sports and pursuits, creating their own paths in life.

Your eldest brother, who was 10 when you were born, stood as a bridge between the older and younger siblings. He brought a unique perspective, having witnessed both the carefree days of his youth and the responsibilities that came with growing up. His presence, though more subtle, was a steady thread connecting your family’s journey through the years.

And then there was your sister, who had started off as a little football enthusiast, clad in Albion colors, with a keen interest in the game. However, as the years rolled on, her interests began to shift. The football craze was replaced by an infatuation with all things fashion and makeup. She became the embodiment of girlishness, a transformation that initially baffled and later amused the rest of you. The matches, which were once an arena for you all to bond over your shared love for the game, now seemed like a duty for her, a family commitment she fulfilled while mostly engrossed in her phone.

Amidst all this change, there were three constants that stood like pillars, holding up the spirit of your family’s connection to the football field—your dad, your eldest brother, and you. You remained the devoted trio, the ones who carried the torch of passion even as others moved on to different interests. Your dad’s voice continued to merge with the chants, your brother’s eyes remained locked on the ball’s every move, and you soaked in the atmosphere, cherishing the memories as they unfolded before you.

In many ways, the Albion was a mirror of your lives, reflecting the ebb and flow of time. It marked the passing years, the shifting priorities, and the evolution of your family dynamics. As the team battled on the pitch, you too navigated the journey of your lives, each match a chapter in the collective story that you shared.

When you turned 12, an opportunity you had long awaited finally arose—you could try out for the girls’ team at Albion. It was a chance to immerse yourself even deeper in the world that had shaped your upbringing. The girls’ team, although immensely popular, was fraught with challenges. The team often struggled with limited resources, and securing a spot on the roster was fiercely competitive. Despite the hurdles, you were determined to make your mark.

Multiple attempts were needed to earn your place on the team, a testament to the steep competition and the dedication required. The club, though underfunded and predominantly focused on the boys’ team, was a place of growth and transformation for you. Throughout your time there, you underwent a remarkable evolution in your playing style, transitioning from defense to attack.

In the initial stages, you believed that your place on the field was in goal, sheltered from the intense confrontations that often came with the front lines of the game. Being a goalie allowed you to focus on one clear objective: stopping the opposing team from scoring. It was a role that suited your aversion to confrontation and desire to contribute without being in the spotlight.

However, as you honed your skills and developed a deeper understanding of the game, your coaches began to notice your attributes. They saw in you a fast-paced player with a knack for accurate passes and a sharp eye for opportunities. Gradually, you transitioned from the backlines to the front, your role evolving to capitalize on your newfound abilities.

An unforgettable moment came during a match when you found yourself sidelined. A stronger goalie had been given the chance to protect the net, and it seemed like fate had other plans for you. Just as the game unfolded, misfortune struck—the star striker suffered a sprained ankle, leaving a void at the center forward position. With your teammates by your side, you assumed that one of them would step up to fill the gap.

To your astonishment, the coaches turned their eyes to you. The responsibility of leading the attack fell squarely on your shoulders. It was a moment that felt both exhilarating and intimidating. As you embraced your new role, the game took an unexpected turn. That match, the one where you were entrusted with the center forward position, marked a turning point in your journey.

The final whistle blew, and the score displayed a resounding 4:0 victory in favor of your team—with you netting a remarkable hat trick. It was a performance that left an indelible mark, a testament to your capabilities and the newfound passion that surged within you. From that moment onward, there was no doubt: you were a center forward.

During the tumultuous years of 17 to 19, when the threads of your family’s unity began to unravel, football emerged as your refuge. It was the sanctuary where you sought solace from the storms that were battering the foundations of your home. Amidst the chaos, you received a once-in-a-lifetime offer—a two-year loan transfer to Arsenal, a giant leap forward in your football journey. But that wasn’t the only challenge you faced; you decided to aim even higher and try out for the England U18 squad.

But the road to that dream was paved with obstacles, and rejection hit you hard. Unlike the other kids who were fortunate enough to receive a spot, your family’s financial constraints and commitments held you back. With limited means to facilitate the demanding training schedules and your parents’ firm belief in a solid education, the path to joining the U18 squad seemed like an insurmountable climb.

Still, you were determined to make the most of your opportunity at Arsenal. Commuting to London became a regular part of your life, and although you weren’t a regular starter, being a sub for the youth team kept the fire of your dreams alive. The echoes of your cleats on the field became a rhythmic reminder that your aspirations were worth the sacrifices you were making.

In the midst of this period, a familiar face emerged as a constant support. Jude, a friend who had been by your side since the days of diapers, became an anchor during this tumultuous phase. He and his younger brother, Jobe, had been selected for the England U18 squad—a success that both inspired and frustrated you. While you were thrilled for them, it was a reminder of the opportunities that eluded you due to circumstances beyond your control. Nevertheless, their achievements acted as a cushion against the sting of your own setbacks.

You and Jude had always shared a special bond, a connection that had grown stronger as you navigated the twists and turns of life together. It was a friendship that seemed unbreakable, a relationship built on a foundation of shared memories and mutual understanding. Yet, as fate would have it, your time away at England’s camp would become a turning point, reshaping the contours of your emotions.

In the midst of drills, practices, and long hours away from home, your perspective shifted. The camaraderie you had shared with Jude started to take on new hues. It was as if the spotlight had shifted, revealing feelings that had been waiting in the wings, yearning for their moment on the stage. The realization hit you like a bolt of lightning—it wasn’t just friendship that bound you two together anymore.

The long nights spent talking about football, sharing dreams, and laughing about the little things had sowed the seeds of something deeper. Your feelings had blossomed quietly, nourished by the unspoken moments that carried a touch of something more. The day came when you looked at Jude and saw not just a friend, but someone who stirred your heart in ways you hadn’t anticipated.

It wasn’t easy to come to terms with this shift, this change in the dynamics that had been woven into your lives since childhood. But in those moments of introspection, you realized that sometimes, the most meaningful journeys were the ones that led you to unexpected destinations.

The memory unfolded like a reel of precious moments, taking you back to a time when innocence mingled with the promise of what lay ahead. It was a day that had been marked with joy, hidden intentions, and the kind of emotions that only youth could amplify.

Jude had returned from his camp, a beacon of accomplishment and dreams, to a surprise party at his parents' house. As he stepped through the door, his eyes took in the decorations that adorned the living room—the streamers, the balloons, the festive atmosphere that awaited him. The room was alive with laughter, the chatter of friends and family, all gathered to celebrate his achievements.

*Amidst the crowd, his eyes locked onto you, a vision that seemed to shine brighter than everything else. Your face lit up with a radiant smile as you bounded towards him, arms outstretched in a hug that enveloped him in warmth. "Jude, welcome back!" you exclaimed, your excitement palpable.*

*He chuckled, returning the hug and taking in the familiar scent that was uniquely yours. "Thanks, Y/N. You didn't have to go through all this trouble, you know."*

*Your laugh was light, but your eyes held a knowing glint. "Trouble? Nah, it's all worth it to celebrate your success."*

*The surprise wasn't just in the decorations or the presents—it was in the way you seemed to radiate a special kind of affection. Your arms were laden with gifts, a display of generosity that caught him off guard. He knew the struggles you faced, the limited resources that often defined your choices, and yet here you were, offering tokens of your care and support.*

*He smiled gratefully, his heart touched by your gesture. "You really didn't have to do all this."*

*Your expression turned teasing. "Oh, come on, Jude. A little party never hurt anyone."*

*Throughout the night, the two of you exchanged subtle glances, a language only the two of you seemed to understand. Those glances held layers of unspoken emotions—friendship, understanding, and something deeper that seemed to stir in the air. It wasn't just the passing of time that had altered the way you saw each other. It was the transformation that adolescence brought—the realization that the feelings you had suppressed were now seeking to surface, too potent to be ignored.*

*As the hours wore on, he couldn't help but notice the way you had grown, your presence somehow more captivating than ever before. The red dress you wore seemed to accentuate every curve, every contour, as if it was tailor-made to captivate his attention. He had always seen you as beautiful, both inside and out, but now he was acutely aware of the woman you had become—a woman he wished he could have in a way that transcended friendship.*

*And as the night drew to a close, as the laughter began to ebb and the music faded into the background, he found himself grappling with emotions he had never dared to acknowledge. The longing in his gaze met the flicker of desire in your eyes, two souls standing on the precipice of something unknown, teetering between the comfort of familiarity and the allure of uncharted territories.*

*With the party winding down, the alcohol flowing freely, the lines between courage and inhibition blurred. The music's rhythm seemed to echo the cadence of his heartbeats as he finally mustered the courage to speak his truth. "Y/N," he slurred slightly, his voice tinged with a mixture of emotion and alcohol. "I've... I've always..."*

*You turned towards him, your eyes a mix of concern and curiosity. "What is it, Jude?"*

*He let out a deep breath, his words stumbling over one another. "I've always thought... I mean, I've always... liked you, Y/N. Not just as a friend, but... you know, more."*

*The weight of his confession hung in the air, a moment suspended in time. You looked at him, your heart racing in tandem with the beats of his. This was a revelation you had secretly hoped for but never quite expected.*

*A mixture of emotions crossed your features, but then you smiled, a tender expression that held a world of unspoken emotions. "Jude," you began softly, "I've felt the same way."*

*His eyes widened, as if he couldn't believe what he was hearing. The alcohol had stripped away his inhibitions, allowing his true feelings to surface. A mixture of relief, joy, and vulnerability washed over him, and he smiled, the weight of his secret finally lifted.*

*As the night drew to an end, you found yourself helping him navigate through the haze of alcohol-induced confusion. Guiding him to a seat, you chuckled softly. "You know, Jude, I think it's time to get you ready for bed."*

*He grinned sheepishly, his cheeks flushed with a mixture of embarrassment and happiness. "Yeah, I think you might be right."*

*With gentle care, you helped him remove his shoes and jacket, your fingers brushing against his skin in a way that sent shivers down his spine. As you guided him towards his room, his eyes met yours, a silent exchange of understanding passing between you. Despite the alcohol-induced haze, the truth had been spoken, and your hearts were now aligned in a way they had never been before.*

*As he settled into bed, he reached out, his fingers gently brushing against yours. "Thank you, Y/N," he whispered, his voice filled with sincerity.*

*You smiled softly, your heart brimming with emotion. "For what?"*

*"For being you. For always being there. And for making this night unforgettable."*

*You leaned down, placing a soft kiss on his forehead. "Sleep well, Jude."*

*And as you turned to leave, the glow of his smile was the last thing you saw before closing the door, leaving you with the knowledge that the path ahead was one that you would walk together, united by a bond that had been years in the making and a confession that was long overdue.*

And from that moment on, the once unspoken feelings between you and Jude transformed your relationship into an unbreakable bond, seemingly unshaken by the currents of life. The subtle exchanges, the lingering glances, and the tender gestures evolved into full-fledged date nights, each moment etching a new chapter in your shared story. Your studies, once your primary focus, now had to share space with the whirlwind of emotions that came with being Jude's girlfriend.

It was a transition that felt as natural as the sun rising every morning. What had started as a friendship now blossomed into a romance that seemed to defy all odds. You found yourself immersed in the world he occupied, his dreams and aspirations becoming yours too. And in return, he was your anchor, the steadfast presence that held you steady through every twist and turn.

It was Jude who convinced you to take a chance on your own dreams, urging you to try out for the U21s group in England. His unwavering belief in you became the catalyst that spurred you to take the leap. His parents' financial support opened doors that had once been closed due to limitations beyond your control.

When the day of the tryouts arrived, you were a whirlwind of nerves and excitement. The magnitude of the opportunity weighed on you, the fear of letting down those who believed in you almost suffocating. The field seemed like a stage, and your every move was under scrutiny.

But as you stepped onto that field, something within you ignited. The whispers of doubt were drowned out by the beat of your heart, the passion that had driven you all these years. The ball felt like an extension of your being, and the rush of the game swept you into a current of determination. You gave it your all, every sprint, every pass, every moment of perfect synchronization with your teammates.

When it was over, and you caught your breath, you dared to look around. The faces of the selectors held expressions that revealed nothing. The uncertainty was almost unbearable, the minutes stretching on like hours. And then, the moment of truth arrived.

"You're in."

Those words, simple yet laden with meaning, sent an electric jolt through you. The elation that followed was as overwhelming as the realization that you had just secured your place on the U21s team. The sweat on your brow mixed with tears of joy as the weight of your achievement sank in.

As you walked off the field, a sense of pride and gratitude filled your heart. Jude's smile awaited you, a mirror of your own feelings. He enveloped you in a hug, whispering words of congratulations and pride. In that moment, you knew that your journey, both in football and in love, was one that was woven with the threads of determination, support, and an unyielding bond that would carry you through every triumph and challenge that lay ahead.

(Y/N's story)

As the sun's gentle rays pierce through your curtains, illuminating your room with a soft and golden glow, you feel a surge of excitement coursing through your veins. The anticipation of the day ahead hangs in the air, almost tangible. Your eyes immediately gravitate to the framed number 7 England Women's National Team jersey hanging proudly on your bedroom wall, a visual testament to your hard work and dedication. Amidst the posters of football legends like David Beckham and Messi, this jersey holds a special place, now more than ever. It symbolizes the culmination of countless training sessions, sacrifices, and dreams that have led you to be selected as a representative of your nation in the upcoming Women's World Cup.

A year had passed since the pivotal moment when you secured your place on the U21s team, a year that had been marked by leaps and bounds of progress. The pitch had become your canvas, the game your art form, and every match was a testament to your growth as a player.

Your journey hadn’t just stopped at joining the U21s—your career had taken on a life of its own. Arsenal had become your home, the field your sanctuary, and your skills had found a permanent place on the team. The path you had chosen was no longer just a dream; it was the reality you lived every day, a life woven with the threads of passion and sweat.

But there was a twist in this tale that you could have never anticipated, a twist that had elevated your achievements to a level that seemed beyond comprehension. The news that you had been chosen for the women’s senior team left you speechless, the gravity of the honor almost overwhelming. To think that you, a girl who had started her journey with a love for the game, were now a part of the pinnacle of football in your country—it was a realization that was as surreal as it was electrifying.

What made this achievement even more poignant was the synchronicity that seemed to be at play. Just as you received your call-up, Jude had received one too—for the men’s senior team. It was as if the universe had conspired to align your destinies, two childhood friends turned lovers now representing England on the world stage. The thought was as thrilling as it was humbling.

Just as you're lost in your thoughts, your bedroom door creaks open, and there stands Jude, your boyfriend, with a knowing smile on his face. In his hands, he carries a steaming cup of tea. The mug, adorned with the bold England colors, proudly displays your name in elegant lettering. It's a thoughtful gesture that warms your heart and brings a grateful smile to your lips. As you reach out to take the mug, your fingers brush against his, a small but deeply meaningful connection. The unspoken support and love between you and Jude have been a pillar of strength throughout this journey, and his presence now is a reminder of the incredible support system you have both on and off the pitch.

"How you feeling, dove?" Jude's voice is gentle, carrying a mix of concern and understanding.

"I'm alright," you reply, your attempt at reassurance tinged with a hint of tension.

"You don't have to lie to me, you know," he says softly, stepping further into the room. His eyes meet yours, a quiet understanding passing between you.

"Believe me, I was—" He pauses, searching for the right words, as if trying to bridge the gap between his own experiences and your current emotions.

"I know," you interject, a small smile playing at the corners of your lips. "M'fine. Just a little nervous, that's all—" Your voice trails off, the admission hanging in the air.

"It's a big day," Jude finishes, his tone a mixture of sympathy and encouragement. He moves closer, his presence a comforting anchor in the midst of your jumbled thoughts.

You take a deep breath, your eyes briefly flickering to the number 7 jersey on the wall, a tangible reminder of what lies ahead. The weight of the day settles on your shoulders, and you feel a wave of nerves wash over you.

Jude reaches out, his fingers gently brushing against yours. "Remember why you're doing this," he says, his voice steady. "You're representing not just yourself, but every dreamer out there who's ever kicked a ball and dared to believe."

His words resonate deeply, a reminder of the significance of this moment beyond the pressure and the nerves. You meet his gaze, a silent connection that speaks volumes.

"I believe in you," Jude adds, his voice unwavering. "And I'll be cheering for you every step of the way."

A genuine smile finally graces your lips, and you squeeze his hand in gratitude. In this small exchange of words and gestures, you find a renewed sense of determination. The nerves are still there, but they're accompanied by a fire that burns brighter, fueled by the belief that you can rise to the occasion.

As your gaze shifts from the vibrant mug with your name in England’s colors to the jersey that stands as a testament to your journey, you feel a surge of determination mingled with nervous energy. It’s a feeling that you’re accustomed to by now, a reminder that every significant moment comes with its own mix of anticipation and excitement. But as you stand in your room, surrounded by reminders of the path you’ve walked, you know that this is where you’re meant to be.

Jude’s voice breaks through your thoughts, offering a comfort that only he can provide. “He’d be proud, you know.”

You turn to face him, your expression a mixture of gratitude and emotions you struggle to articulate. “Jude…”

He cuts you off gently, understanding the unspoken words that hang in the air. “I know you don’t want to mention him, but you have to believe that he would be proud of you.”

Your voice is barely a whisper as you admit, “I wish he was here.”

Jude’s gaze softens, his eyes holding a depth of empathy that only someone who truly understands can offer. “Y/N, he is here,” he says, his hand gently resting over your heart. “Your brother lives on in you, in your memories, and in the choices you make every day.”

The weight of his words settles over you, a reminder that the journey you’re on is not just yours alone. The dreams that had been ignited by a childhood hero had been stoked by your brother’s unwavering support, even if it was from a distance. As you stand on the precipice of another milestone, his memory serves as a guiding light, a reminder that your journey is as much about honoring the past as it is about embracing the future.

And so, with the weight of memories and the strength of your emotions, you step forward. The nerves still flutter in your stomach, but they’re accompanied by a resolute spirit and a heart full of love. As you make your way towards the field, you know that your brother’s presence is a part of you, propelling you forward, whispering encouragement in the wind, and watching over you as you chase your dreams.

“Right. No more soppy things,” Jude interjects with a playful grin, his voice lighthearted. “My girl is about to go to Australia and perform in the biggest competition in the world.”

You chuckle, your nerves momentarily forgotten in the face of his cheeky comment. “Wow, no pressure at all."

He nudges you gently, his confidence in you evident in his gaze. “For you, it’ll be a breeze.”

Your heart swells at his unwavering faith, and the affection in your next words is genuine and heartfelt. “I love you."

His response is swift and sincere, his voice carrying a depth of emotion that makes your heart skip a beat. “I love you too.”

As you bask in the warmth of your connection, the aroma of your dad’s pancakes wafts up the stairs, a reminder of the bustling life that surrounds you. Your dad’s voice rings out from downstairs, adding a touch of humor to the moment. “If you lot want pancakes, you better have them now because Eden is eating them all!”

Eden, your sister, once the quiet girl who kept herself occupied during your training nights, had now taken on a new chapter of life. Pregnant with her second child, her journey had led her down a different path—one that you couldn’t help but marvel at.

As you make your way downstairs, the scent of pancakes mingling with the laughter of your family, you’re enveloped in a sense of belonging. The love that threads through every interaction is a constant reminder that your journey is supported by the pillars of those who love you—each member of your family contributing to the mosaic of your life in their own special way.

And as you sit down to enjoy a meal together, the anticipation of the competition still lingers, but it’s accompanied by a sense of togetherness that soothes your nerves. With your loved ones by your side, your journey takes on an added layer of meaning, and you’re reminded that no matter where life takes you, the bonds that tie you to your family, to Jude, and to your own dreams, will always remain unbreakable.

You took a deep breath before making your way down to join your family at the dinner table. You smiled as you greeted everyone, but a subtle feeling of insecurity gnawed at you.

As the conversation began, your brother Rowan asked, "So, Y/N, how's your football season going? Still scoring those goals?"

Your face lit up, "Definitely! I've been training hard, and we have some big games coming up."

Your brother Marley chimed in with a skeptical tone, "I mean, isn't women's football way easier than men's? It's not like the competition is as tough."

Jude, sitting beside you, felt the urge to speak up but hesitated, knowing that you might not want him to intervene.

You decided to subtly address your family's misconceptions, "Actually, Marley, Arsenal is part of the Women's Super League (WSL), which is a very competitive league."

Your sister Eden raised an eyebrow, "But it's not like the Premier League, right?"

Just then, your dad walked in, and his presence seemed to shift the atmosphere in the room. He looked at you, his expression filled with understanding and support.

"Now will all of you stop getting her down," he said firmly, addressing the family. "It's a big day. She's got a lot on her plate, and I'm sure none of you will understand the amount of pressure she is under—"

Jude took the opportunity to change the subject, diverting the conversation to a less tense topic, like Australia as a whole. The discussion carried on for a while, shifting away from your football endeavors.

As dinner came to an end and you helped your dad with the dishes, you began to speak again, "thanks dad,, it's okay if they don't get—"

"No, don't," he interrupted gently. "Ever since your brother—" He paused, his voice faltering for a moment. "Ever since then, football has become like a swearword. You're the only one who shows me the light that comes with it. Your siblings blame it for what happened to Noah—" He paused again, struggling to continue.

Your eyes welled up with emotion, and you reached out to put a hand on your dad's shoulder.

"But don't listen, alright?" he continued, his voice stronger. "You're brilliant. And we'll be cheering you on—even if they don't get it."

Tears filled your eyes as you hugged your dad tightly, feeling the weight of his words and the immense support he offered. In that moment, you realized that even though your family might not fully understand, you had your dad by your side, standing as a pillar of encouragement.

@skynews

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@skynews The women world cup is finally here, with many of us at home hoping that this moment at the euro's last year could potentially be recreated. Can the women bring it home once again?. Link in our bio for the full story

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fifaupdates This team was already brilliant, and now with new players such as Morrison, our new team is going to be so fun!

garyliniker with names like morrison added to this list, this should be a breeze for our girls. Come on lionesses 👊👊👊

As the car sped down the road, you found yourself lost in thought. The events of the evening replayed in your mind, the ups and downs of family interactions leaving you with a mix of emotions. The comforting presence of Jude beside you helped ease some of the tension, but you couldn’t shake off the unease completely.

Jude glanced at you from time to time, sensing your introspection. “You know, sometimes families don’t always understand the things that matter most to us. But that doesn’t diminish their significance.”

You nodded, appreciating his wisdom. “You’re right. I just wish they could see how much football means to me.”

Jude smiled warmly, his gaze focused on the road. “They might come around eventually. It takes time for people to change their perspective.”

You leaned your head against the window, taking in the passing scenery. “I hope so.”

After a while, Jude turned on the radio, filling the car with a soft melody. The atmosphere shifted, and you found yourself gradually relaxing. The tension that had been gripping your shoulders began to loosen, and you exchanged a small smile with Jude.

As you approached the airport, you felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The upcoming football event was a big deal, and you were determined to give it your all. Jude parked the car, and you both gathered your bags. Walking towards the entrance, you felt a reassuring squeeze of Jude’s hand, grounding you in the present moment.

I’m going to miss you,” he said, his voice genuine.

You smiled, touched by his sentiment. “I’ll miss you too. But I’ll make sure to give my best out there, for you, and for myself.”

Jude chuckled, “I know you will.”

At the security checkpoint, you turned to face him. “Promise me you’ll take care of yourself while I’m gone.”

Jude’s eyes softened as he cupped your cheek. “Of course. And you better come back with a victory to celebrate.”

You both shared a lingering kiss before reluctantly parting ways. As you walked towards your gate, you stole a glance back at Jude, feeling a sense of gratitude for the person who had always stood by you.

(Y/N's story)

Just as you were about to enter the security gate, a familiar figure caught your eye. Leah Williamson, a fellow player from Arsenal, was making her way towards you with a warm smile on her face. She reached you in no time, enveloping you in a tight hug.

“Y/N! How have you been?” Leah’s genuine enthusiasm radiated as she pulled away from the hug.

You grinned, feeling an immediate sense of comfort in her presence. “Leah! It’s so good to see you. I’ve been good, just getting ready for the big event.”

Leah chuckled, giving you a playful nudge. “Of course you are. You always give a hundred percent.”

As you and Leah caught up on each other’s lives, Jude approached, and a warm exchange of greetings ensued. “Hey, Jude..” Leah winked at Jude, playfully adopting a protective stance. “Don’t you worry. I’ll make sure she doesn’t get into too much trouble.”

Jude laughed, clearly reassured by Leah’s presence. “Thanks, Leah. You’re the best.”

As the time to say goodbye approached, Jude gave you one final hug and a lingering kiss. “Go out there and give it your all, Y/N. I’ll be cheering you on from here.”

You nodded, holding back the emotions that threatened to surface. “I will. And I’ll be back before you know it.”

Jude squeezed your hand, offering his support one last time before turning to Leah. “Look out for her, alright?”

Leah grinned, her tone filled with confidence. “Don’t worry, Jude. She’s in good hands.”

With a final wave, Jude headed back to the car while you and Leah made your way towards the departure gate. As you walked side by side, you couldn’t help but feel grateful for Leah’s friendship and the bond you had formed during your time at Arsenal.

(Leah's story)

[piedpiperslists]

Hey cutieeeeee

How r u?

Do u have any sad fic recs? Like heart wrenching angst that'll make you cry?

❤❤❤

Hi. I've had so much going on these past months so I haven't been on here as much, but I'm hoping to get back to reading fics before the year ends. Fingers crossed I don't get distracted by other things before this happens 😅

There's quite a lot of angsty fics with happy endings that made me cry lmao but I'm going to assume by heart wrenching you mean fics with no happy endings.

I already have a list here for breakup (KSJ, JJK) and unrequited love (KSJ, JJK) fics. You can also check the general angst tag here (KSJ, JJK).

But let me list here some fics that still hurts me to this day whenever I'm reminded of it :'). PS I haven't read any fics since April so none of these are recent fics.

* s - contains smut

Seokjin:

Don’t Let It Fade by wtf-yoongi - drabble / angst, established relationship Summary: Sh*t happens and you’re trying to understand what you’re feeling.

Point of Origin and Intersections by vanaera - drabble / angst, established relationship Summary: People come and go at certain points of your life. You just didn’t expect you’ll find yourself and Seokjin back to where you started.

Vow by vin-taege - drabble / angst, unrequited love, friends au Summary: You looked beautiful walking down the aisle. His tux was cleanly pressed, his hair sweeping into a curve above his eyes. It was exactly as he pictured it to be, and he couldn’t help but cry.

Daffodil Street by vantaenims - one shot / wc~8.1k / angst, unrequited love, friends au Summary: You’ve been struggling for quite some time to overcome your feelings for your best friend who doesn’t even love you the way that you do but there are instances when he would ignite your hopes or maybe this is all just in your mind but is too much to ask for something more?

Exile by joheunsaram - one shot / wc~2.8k / angst, exes au Summary: When Seokjin sees you with your new boyfriend, all he wants is to get you back. Based on the song exile by Taylor Swift.

La Douleur Exquise by junqkook - one shot (s) / wc~3.6k / angst, soulmates au Summary: The heart-wrenching pain of wanting someone you can’t have.

Seven Seconds in Heaven by jimlingss - one shot / wc~5.8k / angst, established relationship Summary: In the moment of your death, Heaven drops the hammer of punishment; making him travel back in time to relive memories that can never be changed. Seven memories. Seven minutes in each. Seven seconds before they are ripped away.

Jungkook:

Dressed in White by vi061313 - drabble / angst, unrequited love, friends au Summary: He took one last shaky breath and watched with a tight, sour feeling in his chest as you turned away from him and faced your groom, smiling even wider, so wide he was sure your cheeks would rip.

Goodnight by latetaektalk - drabble / angst, breakup au Summary: Jungkook and you lay in bed one last time as you talk about your failing relationship.

I Know the End by onlyswan - drabble / angst, breakup au Summary: But you had to go, I know, I know, I know. The End I Didn’t Know by onlyswan - drabble (s) / angst, exes au Summary: After awhile you went quiet, and I got mean.

Champagne Problems by yoongiphoria - one shot / wc~2.3k / angst, established relationship Summary: He gave you his heart to hold, and you hope to god that someone, someday, can put the shards back together.

Covert Affairs by minisugakoobies - one shot (s) / wc~4.3k / angst, enemies au, spies au Summary: The five times you cross paths with legendary spy Jeon Jungkook.

Even Winter Ends by jysmloves - one shot / wc~3k / angst, breakup au Summary: Jeon Jungkook is winter, but like all seasons, winter eventually comes to an end.

Lifting the Veil by fortunexkookie - one shot (s) / wc~3.5k / angst, unrequited love, friends au Summary: Jungkook had always known that the happiest day of your life was going to be his worst, but he never imagined the reason why would’ve been anything other his love for you.

And while were on fics that made me cry, let me recommend this once again lol

The End by jimlingss - one shot / wc~31k Summary: It’s been a habit of yours to vent in the form of love letters. There’s six in total. They’re kept secret, hidden in your closet. But on your 30th birthday, what you least expect is for each letter to become reality. All done by the whacky ghost of Christmas future trying to grant your birthday wish.

[kindestofkings]

photography era [3]

elijah hewson x reader

reader is childhood bestfriends/ who doubles up as their occasional photographer, who is currently touring with the band!

authors note: hahahah I litch was like im gonna make a short little part 3 just to wrap this idea off and then next minute im reaching the pic limit, anyway I think it turned out cute so enjoy !

I really appreciate all the love i've received with my last insta au's y'all are the best <3

(PS: Picture credits to whoever took them)

yourusername posted on their story:

replies

inhalerfan1 feeding us ryan girlies off the bat, appreciate you <;3 lewevans hahaha wait until they get moody and tired.. -> they're gonna get WORSE??

inhalerdublin

liked by bobbyskeetz and others

inhalerdublin Thank you Lille for kicking off our EU tour.

We’re back in Amsterdam tonight for our biggest show so far at @afaslive

📸 yourusername

view all 600 comments

inhalerfan1 AMAZING SHOW!! the post concert depression is too real rn..

inhalerfan2 hiring yourusername was your best decision yet boys these pics are so hot

inhalerfan1 inhaler through the female gaze has righted all the worlds wrongs (liked by elijahhewson,bobbyskeetz, ryanmcmahon_15 and joshjenkinson_)

inhalerfan3 bobby girls we're being FED

yourusername I got you girlie xx

yourusername great evening !! but I am realising im touring with 4 boys for two months.. @nieveella y'all need a photographer??

(liked by nievella) bobbyskeetz why are you always tryna get rid of us.. yourusername try listening to your 12 year old boy humour 24/7 this is a hardship !

yourusername

liked by evehewson and others

yourusername guys i'm a failure, E still hasn't agreed to cover I'm Just Ken 😭 What is the point of having friends that can sing if they wont take my requests 💔

view all 200 comments

inhaler1 you are the gift that keeps on giving

inhaler2 for real get a girl who can do both

joshjenkinson_ I was gonna be pressed but i'll let it slide cause of my caption

bobbyskeetz you need to be stopped. @elijahhewson MAKE HER STOP

yourusername wah wah wah hush elijahhewson love come on yourusername heyyy its funny!

evehewson hahah you are the best ever

yourusername and you are my favourite hewson! inhaler3 inlaw bonding? inhaler2 girl chill

yourusername posted on their story:

(liked by elijahhewson,bobbyskeetz, ryanmcmahon_15 and joshjenkinson_)

-filling this dramatic fella with drink to get back in his good books

yourusername

liked by inhalerdublin and others

yourusername please take these photos of the boys as an apology for my last post. they are very serious musicians and are very handsome. again sorry for any upset caused.

view all 100 comments

inhalerfan3 hahahahahhah who is holding the gun to your head rn girl?

yourusername im sure I dont know what you could possibly mean (totally unrelated robert keating can be kinda scary)

bobbyskeetz now that is more like it

yourusername @bobbyskeetz @elijahhewson am I forgiven yet? can I come for pints now

ryanmcmahon_15 I think your last post ..slayed? yourusername THIS is why your my favourite and why you had first spot in the post 🖤 inhalerfan3 hahah did you choose the order based on who you like the most rn yourusername @inhalerfan3 👁👄👁

inhalerfanupdates

liked by inhalerfan2 and others

inhalerfanupdates GUYS I'm just back from my inhaler show and im shaking look at this pic yourusername took of my friend and I with eli! BEST. NIGHT. EVER.

view all 10 comments

inhalerfan 1 no way that is adorable, yourusername is one of us with the 0.5

inhalerfanupdates she was literally so nice aswell! they had walked by us so fast and I think I was so visibly upset, which she spotted and made eli come back over to us! inhalerfanupdates she was also chatting to us for a little while after, talking about tour and all she comes across real genuine <3

inhalerfan2 they're dating right??

inhalerfanupdates I really think so after seeing them walk and interact together. its been so hard to tell cause shes always joking and is so close with them all. inhalerfan3 they have to be dating they're my parents.

yourusername

liked by inhalerfan2 and others

yourusername Europe 1 Three amigos 0

view all 200 comments

inhalerfan 4 you are literally traveling around europe, freeloading off your famous friends. so so ungrateful god

inhalerfan2 hate to break this to you but being mean to one of his best friends / photographer is not going to get Eli to date you! inhalerfan3 haha girl no need to be so meannnn

elijahhewson I told you we should've skipped drinks

yourusername it was for the plot hotstuff (liked by bobbyskeetz)

bobbyskeetz why is the world so loud??

ryanmcmahon_15 *three idiots

(liked by joshjenkinson_ and others)

lewevans told you they get tired and moody

yourusername oh wise man 😭😭 you were so right

inhalerdublin

liked by elijahhewson and others

inhalerdublin she loves to joke around and despite what bobby says, its the very reason we love her.

but our photographer for the europe leg/ our bestfriend yourusername is flat out working, making sure we look our best and coolest, we remind you to be kind in your comments towards her - eli, ryan, bobby and josh <3

comments have been restricted

yourusername BOYS im so unwell this is so sweet

joshjenkinson_ the GOAT

ryanmcmahon_15 ❤️‍🔥

elijahhewson our girl!

bobbyskeetz also she plays taylor swift on repeat when shes sad so please, i can't hear this is me trying again

yourusername we can't listen to the strokes all the damn time robert! yourusername also you asked about the folklore love triangle so stfu

yourusername

liked by ryanmcmahon_15 and others

yourusername been great annoying bobby with pda for the last 3 years with you <3

have loved tagging along on my superhot boyfriend on tour and taking super hot (and super not) pictures of him! only a few more shows left xx

tagged: elijahhewson

view all 400 comments

elijahhewson 3 years but i'm still not your favourite singer 💔

yourusername write an album like notes on a conditional form and you can take that top spot baby <;3 inhaler1 babyyyyy i love them your honour

bobbyskeetz great the world knows, can you stop kissing in front of us now.

yourusername just say you're lonely, it'd be quicker xx inhaler2 LMAO i love their friendship

evehewson wait I thought I was your favourite hewson...

yourusername course you are, this is a pr xx elijahhewson 🙃🙃 yourusername 😅😅

inhalerfan3 brb just gonna go take a bath with my toaster xx

joshjenkinson_ the hardest of launches

yourusername litch dont have the energy to lie anymore loll

---- finito----

if you made it this far I love and appreciate you so much! all the forehead kisses xx

[intplayboy]

TOUCH - MAFIA! BTS OT7 X F! READER [ THREE ]

if you want to be part of the tag list, complete the form.

summary: jin, with the assistance of 007 (you), performs a quick operation on the maknae as a result of his injury. jungkook tries to thank you, while jin spends some time to learn more about you better. yoongi gets frustrated with his members and takes it out on you.

pairings: mafia bts ot7 x experimented human female reader

genre: mafia au | moderate? angst | romance | sci-fi | action | fluff

warnings: implied drugging, mentions torture (no gore tho), medical extraction, gunshot wound, blood, violence, swearing. more fluff in this chapter! but also unfortunately yoongi being more of an asshole a little bit.

word count: 12,722 *prewritten & new chap but written longer, as an apology for the lateness :')*

also sorry i didn't post on the last two fridays, i had family from the philippines and then new year plans. anyways, better later than never, am i right? heheh... enjoy <3

ps. the second half of this isn't proofread 😭

masterpost | two | four

tag list: @juju-227592, @drunkzseok, @yourgirlcin, @babybunli, @xanny91, @bibetsa, @borahae-reads, @lalavione1309, @luvsbngtn, @tetehearts, @singukieee, @serendididy, @quixoticbittersweet, @iriaachan, @jksisbunntboy, @missseoulite, @xjiminsthighsx, @just-vaaalll, @chim-possible, @passionandsuga, @deadrose287, @kalala22, @bangtanxberm, @scuzmunkie, @sunoosult, @germ2001, @lovelgirl22, @thvkives, @kourtney-fairy-blog, @linlinlily, @getinthetardissammy-sh, @prakriti-j, @paramedicnerd004, @cuteipat, @iamkookiesforyou, @queen-in-the-shadows, @shadowyjellyfishfest, @fakedanger, @reallysparklychaos, @ghostlyworld, @whipwhoops, @knjsbae, @peebsvic, @bfxnmcgjc, @ghostkat23, @mpc1324, @yoongissmalltoe, @prettyling, @luna-astro, @hannahdinse8, @twentyninetyseven, @cryingpages, @ut-dixisti (the tags that are strikethrough could not be tagged)

copyright © 2022 by kumiko. all rights reserved. my works or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without express written permission from me except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

The maknae lies on his bed, as the others surround him with worried expressions. Their butler and Jin tend to him. "How's he hyung?"

"He didn't lose too much blood since the bullet is lodged in him. But we'll have to extract it or else it'll become infected and he won't heal properly." Jin explained.

The eldest brother casts a glance at his younger brother's pale face. "Jungkook, the bullet is stuck; we'll have to get it out. And it will hurt... a lot."

He blinks open his eyes, faintly nodding. "O-okay."

Hoseok enters the room with a metal cart and approaches Jin and Sun-woo from behind. "I brought the tools."

"Thanks."

Then a tiny figure emerged from the doorway. "I heard, hurt bad."

All eight pairs of eyes turned to gaze at you, but you avoided eye contact. "I want to help him."

"C-can I help him?" You asked softly.

Jin redirects his attention to Jungkook, who meets his stare and nods. "L-let her."

"Okay, come here. " Jin directs you, prompting you to move your feet toward the three men. "Get on the bed on the opposite side of him."

You climb onto the bed and sit next to the injured boy. You chew on your lip as you look at him, the sense of his injury being much stronger to you.

Jin then pressed the silvery blade against Jungkook's wound and gently slid it across, while you wrap your hands around Jungkook, and your eyes and the veins on your hands begin to illuminate purple.

When Sun-woo turns around to deliver Jin the next tool, his attention is drawn to you and your glowing appearance, causing him to yelp and drop the tool in surprise. "Oh goodness! That startled me."

"Yeah, that'll be with us for god knows how long, so get used to it." Yoongi scowls and Sun-woo nods slowly.

As Jin drags the blade against Jungkook, the younger groans and stiffens in pain, but thanks to your abilities, Jungkook gradually relaxes and falls quiet.

Jin continues to cut him open until eventually lifting the blade, causing you to let out a short, relieved gasp.

Jin sneaks a glimpse at you before checking on his injured dongsaeng. "How do you feel Kookie?"

"I-I'm fine. It doesn't hurt anymore, I don't feel anything. You can continue." He affirms.

"Okay, well, the bleeding is stable, and I will now extract the bullet, alright?" Jin makes an announcement, to which Jungkook nods.

Jin extended his other free hand behind him, signaling their butler to give out the next tool, a forceps. He quickly adjusted the metal tool in his hand and hovered it over the bullet wound once he could feel it in his hand.

He looks into the wound again, properly locating the bullet before inserting the tool into the open wound. He fishes for the bullet steadily but effectively, and once he clamps on to it, he expertly wiggles it upwards to remove it.

The soft audible whimpers coming from your petite form, however, do not go unnoticed by Jin and Jungkook, undoubtedly because they are the closest to you.

Still, Jin focused on extracting the bullet diligently, and once it emerges from the open wound, he instantly places it in the surgical metal basin beside him.

"All done." He begins removing his bloody gloves. "You can heal him now."

You flash Jin a brief glance before gently placing both of your hands above the wound. And, once again, not only do the veins on your hands glow but so do the veins around Jungkook's wound.

Meanwhile, Sun-woo marvels as you miraculously heal his youngest boss. "Amazing..."

You quickly retracted your hands while looking at Jungkook after the wound healed. "A-are you okay?"

The corners of the maknae's lips curved up slightly, keeping his gaze fixed on you. "Yes, thanks."

For what seemed like hours in their eyes, a sudden loud sigh interrupts their trance. "How come you didn't say anything, Jungkook?"

The addressed man swiveled his head, his eyes settled on his concerned leader. "I didn't want to worry you guys, and I figured I could treat it myself."

"If only the bullet wasn't stuck in there." He mutters quietly, but the oldest manages to hear him.

"You really think you could properly treat that wound yourself, are you crazy?" Jin exclaimed.

He puts his hands up defensively. "Okay! Okay, I'm sorry, I will make sure to tell you guys next time. Happy?"

While the boys cleaned up, you returned to your room as told and awaited further instructions.

Your head sprang up when you heard a knock at the door a little while later. You watch as a figure enters the room; it was the same broad-shouldered man who had tended to their youngest member and politely conversed with you the day before.

As he approaches you, he gives a faint smile. "Hi, I just wanted to come in here and thank you for helping Jungkook."

"Y-you welcome." You answer with your small voice.

He chuckles softly when the memory of your whimpering came to him. "By the way, I meant to ask you, why were you whimpering earlier?"

You give him a quizzical look, urging Jin to continue with his explanation. "You were making these sounds with your mouth while taking Jungkook's pain and healing him. It sounded like whimpering."

You pause for a few seconds. "Oh, y-your pain—" As you try to explain, you motion to him and then to yourself. "My pain."

The lens spectacle-wearing man scrunches his brows. "Huh? What do you mean by that?"

"I thought you already feel when someone is—" A voice disrupted him before he could complete his sentence. "Hyung! Are you making dinner tonight?"

Jin lets out an exasperated groan. "Of course!"

He sighed heavily, knowing he'd have to put that subject of discussion on hold for the time being. He then returns his attention to you."I know you've been cooped up in this boring room for hours, so would you like to join me in making dinner for everyone?"

"Y-you asking me?"

He nods. "Yeah, it'll be fun... I think?"

"Fun? What's fun?" You sway your head.

He rubs the back of his head, he did not expect that. "It's like— something you find enjoyable, yes. Something you'll like doing."

"Do you understand?"

"Enjoyable... Oh! Enjoyable, yes." You grin with your lips, exposing your adorable bread cheeks and deep dimples akin to Namjoon's.

That's cute. Wait what? What are you saying Jin? "Well, then, shall we go down?"

He offers his hand to you, which you immediately wrap your own around. He takes your hand in his and gently tugs you out of your bedroom.

When the two of you eventually made it into the kitchen, Jin automatically headed to where the apron with the white and blue stripes hung on a cabinet door. You, on the other hand, stayed still as the expert hacker moved about the kitchen retrieving all of the ingredients.

He didn't see you still awkwardly standing in the center of the kitchen until all the veggies and spices were spread out on the large island table. "O-oh sorry, I didn't realize..."

"I plan to make japchae and kimchi quesadillas. You can help by pouring all these contents for the quesadillas into the bowl like this." He demonstrates with empty dishes, making sure you pay attention. "Then mix it with the ground beef— Does this look easy enough?"

You hum and position yourself in front of the contents you were presented with. Jin attentively monitors you for a moment, ensuring you perform your job correctly. When he's satisfied, he turns around and starts chopping the veggies for the japchae.

He skillfully cuts and slices all of the peppers, mushrooms, spinach, and carrot. The same small voice rang out just as he was about to put a pot on the burner. "I-I finished."

He turns his head, and he finds the sight amusing. Splattered stains on his dongsaeng's sweatshirt and your hands drenched in the mixed spices and oil from the sauce that drips down your arms, staining the cuffs of her sleeves.

He chuckles lightly at your disarray. "Ah you're so clueless, but you're a cute kind of clueless."

As he approaches you with a smile, you pucker your lips in bewilderment. "Let me help you here."

He pulls a clean rag from the oven handle and drags her hands towards him. You squeak quietly at his abrupt actions, remembering Yoongi cleaning the food crumbs off your hands before. So you let him do what he did.

He adds as Jin keeps wiping your hands. "You should've rolled up your sleeves before mixing the ingredients together."

"It's okay, you didn't even know. Next time." He finally finishes drying your hands and lifts his eyes to meet your innocent, questioning gaze.

They exchanged stares for who knows how long until Jin noticed a smear of soy sauce on your cheek. His eyes narrowed on the spot, and his hand moved to your cheek without thinking as he came closer to your face. "You have something on your cheek."

You remained still, the close proximity quickening your heartbeat. Were you feeling fear, like your had with the angry man on the road? No. Then what was so different about how you felt when Jin is just inches from your face? That, you did not entirely understand.

This feeling of a new sort of pulse beating, the people, and even the environment itself were all foreign to you. Being outside the concrete walls that had imprisoned you had been a dream in the past, but it was now your new reality. You were finally experiencing it. Perhaps in an extremely bizarre way, as most people would put it, but anything had to be better than looking at those concrete walls and feeling trapped by your own father, right?

Jin came to a stop so near to your face that you could feel his breath tickling your nose. With his fingers hovering over your cheek, he wiped the sauce off your smooth skin with his thumb.

As he withdraws, a smirk appears on his face. "There you go, all done."

"Your hands could be sticky as well, so go wash your hands and we'll continue from here." You nod once again and do what you’re directed.

And for the remainder of the cooking time, you lingered behind Jin, a curious expression on your face, watching him work earnestly.

Jin eventually finishes their food after only an hour and a half. "Ya! I need one of you to help me in bringing out the food!"

Several footsteps can be heard before one individual enters from the kitchen entryway. "I'll help you hyung."

Jungkook walks over to the large island table and carries the other dish that his hyung had cooked. The meal is brought to their dining table by the two men. "Hey, erm, 007...?"

You glance up at Jin when you hear your name and wait for him to continue. "Could you please bring some plates and chopsticks?"

"Okay." You squeaked.

You looked inside the cupboards Jin had been rummaging through while cooking, searching for those white ceramic round circle plates. As you scanned the cupboard, you spotted the stacked plates. You stretched, nearly reaching for the plates with her fingertips.

As you ostensibly struggles to get the plates yourself, she huffs. After a prolonged strain, you felt your fingertips slightly contact the ceramics and instinctively sought to lean to get a proper grip. You were so focused on retrieving those dishes that you didn't notice the tall figure who walked back into the kitchen. "Ya, what are you doing?"

You flinch at his unexpected presence, startling you, and the plate you barely clutched slips from your loosened hands and smashes on the floor with a loud clatter. You released a small gasp, clearly alarmed by the abrupt predicament.

The said person scrambles forward instantly. "Ya, are you okay?!"

And as soon as you saw him, you identified the familiar face of the man you met in the alleyway who protected you without hesitation. "That was so sudden, I'm sorry."

He says tearing you out of you short daze, gazing at him a little stunned. "It's okay, it's my fault, I clean."

You then lowered your eyes, eventually frowning at the mess you had created. You crouched above the shattered fragments of the once-round porcelain dish without thinking. Upon seeing this, Jungkook scurried to your aid, shaking his head. "No- It's alright. I came up behind you without warning."

"I'll clean it up, you'll only hurt yourself—" The sound of glass thudding and a small yelp alerted him, and he noticed blood seeping out of your palm. "See, I told you. Let me do it."

"Let's wrap this up first." He grabs you injured hand, but you pull it back, shaking your head.

"I heal, remember?" Your eyes then turned purple, and the cut on your palm gradually closed, reverting your hand to normal.

Jungkook watches you as you heal yourself in front of him. That's right, I suppose that'll be the new normal now that she's here. Still, he will always remain awestruck by your abilities, although he doesn't look like he is. "Well, even if you can self-heal, that doesn't mean you put yourself in harm's way all the time."

"Let's get you off the floor for now." He wraps his arms around your slender frame and effortlessly scoops you up, eliciting a subtle squeal of surprise from you.

He then places you on the long island table and sweeps the broken ceramic off the floor. When he's finished, he approaches you again. "You know, there's no shame in asking for help. Especially if it keeps you away from harm's way."

You nod slowly, and Jungkook smirks. "Normally, I wouldn't be so courteous to a stranger I'd only met two days before. But you're different, which I like."

"You also helped me, so I guess my behavior right now is a way of expressing thank you for me." He explains himself sheepishly.

Why was he explaining so sheepishly? It wasn't like he was attempting to declare his love to his crush or ask a girl to a school dance. So why does the cute clueless stranger he encountered on the road who can magically heal people make him feel that way when he speaks to her? It seems like such a complicated question to answer.

When you returned his stare, you both fell quiet, unsure what to say next. After what seemed like many minutes of silence, Jungkook couldn't stand it any longer and cleared his throat. "I'll just grab the plates and you can grab the chopsticks."

"Does that sound good?"

You nod and look down from the counter as if you’re uncertain how you’ll get down from there. This does not go missed by him, and he almost laughs at the sight of your innocent concentrated face trying to figure out how to get off.

Without warning, he puts his hands around your waist, lifts you, and lowers you to the floor. "There you go."

"Let's join the rest for dinner, I'm sure we had them waiting quite long enough."

For the following days, Namjoon summoned the gang for another brief meeting, this time to discuss future plans regarding the allegedly stolen medical equipment and the gang that was transporting it. Everyone agreed that it was necessary to begin investigating the truth behind the smuggling business that had been operating under their noses for nearly two decades.

So, since then, some members have kept holed up in the house, going through recent and archived files and phoning contacts, while others have gone in and out meeting other different 'acquaintances' who prefer the traditional way of discreet information dissemination. However, as the days turned into weeks, the group failed to find even a single lead. File after file, contact after contact, it seems that the so-called "smuggling firm" didn't exist.

No one had the slightest knowledge about it not even the whereabouts of that unidentified gang. And this increased Bangtan's suspicions. They all inherently congregated in the living room at the end of the day and sat drained along the couches.

Yoongi rubs his eyes, almost laughing. "This is like chasing after a ghost."

"What are we even doing?"

"Whoever put in this much effort to keep this thing running in such secrecy for so long must be in a higher status. So the real question is, what are they doing with all of these packages of supplies that would force them to conceal it so desperately?" Jin's brows furrows.

Jungkook cocks his brow while staring down. "Something illegal— extremely illegal."

"But we do illegal shit almost everyday." Taehyung responds bluntly.

The others threw him a deadpan expression. "What? It's true!"

Namjoon sighs. "But, Jungkook and Jin are right." He thinks for a moment. "Jin, do you think you could analyze the supplies within the cargo? Maybe we can start speculating from there once we understand exactly what's in there."

The eldest nods. "Yeah, I can do that. But as I said before with the whole military mainframe hacking, this will also take time."

"And, as I have mentioned, it's fine; what matters is that we get to the bottom of this."

"Should we ask our wonderful guest again?" Jimin advises as he cracks his knuckles.

Taehyung sighs. "That little shit refuses to speak. We've gone at him for hours on end."

"And at this point, he's pissed me."

Yoongi scoffs. "Maybe you need to try a different tactic—"

"What kind of tactic?" Taehyung huffs.

"The Oranyan tactic." He replies.

Jimin rolls his eyes. "Yeah, sure, good luck trying to get something out of him."

"Watch me." He flashes a sly grin.

With that, Yoongi heads to the basement himself, walking into the dim gray room. There, the surviving member of the cargo delivery they interfered in is now bound to a chair, blood trickling down his nose and purple bruising on his right eye and cheekbones. His head hangs as he was rendered unconscious by the constant pain from yesterday afternoon.

Yoongi approaches the poor man, kicking his foot, awakening him. "Ya, wake up dipshit."

The man groans, groggily lifting his head up. His swollen eyes fluttered open, finally landing on the master manipulator himself. He visibly gulps, this doesn't go missed by Yoongi, making him smirk cockily.

"Good, you already know who I am. No introductions needed, I like that." He tilts his head teasingly.

"Jesus fuck- how many there are of you guys?"

"Enough." Yoongi states bluntly.

"W-what do you want? Your friends already talked to me, and I ain't telling you shit."

Oranyan chuckles humorlessly. "Well good news for you, I don't need you to be talking for while—" The man's face twitches, making him continue. "Bad news, you're going to wish you had."

Two hours later...

The beaten man is no longer restricted to the chair but is suspended from the ceiling by his wrists. Yoongi's knuckles are red from the repeated strikes, but his patience is wearing thin. That's it, he tried to be kind.

He then opens a metal drawer and pulls out a syringe. He moves back up to the man, noticing his wary eye on the needle he's holding. "Oh, you must be wondering what this is?"

"Have you heard of opioids? The drug that supposes to relieve pain... Well, with the proper hazardous amount of an extra component, like fluoroquinolone, it will have the complete opposite effect."

"What does that mean for you? This means that the pain will intensify ten times worse than the minor pain you think you can handle. And well—" His lip rolls up. "You better hope your pain tolerance is immeasurable."

Yoongi had fulfilled his goal, the terror had settled in his eyes, and he was only going to touch the tip of the iceberg for the man. This satisfies him and simply pushes him to inject the drug, forcing the unfortunate man to scream. "NO! No, please!"

Yoongi removes the syringe and replaces it in the drawer. The tormented gang member cries out and squirms in his confinement. "Don't do this please!"

The second-oldest bangtan member ignores his screams by grabbing an empty bucket, placing it in a sink, and filling it with water. When the bucket is roughly one-third full, he takes it out and returns to his subject, drenching him with water.

"What are you doing?!"

Yoongi snaps his eyes up at him. "Can't a man have his fun?"

He then takes another gadget from the metal drawer. "Did I not warn you? Now you're pleading with me to stop, and I haven't even begun."

"Let me ask you a question. Do you want me to stop?"

He reluctantly nods. "Then tell me who that shipment was for."

Silence.

"All right, you asked for it." He sighs. The electric buzzing sounds as he switches on the gadget, and he immediately pins it on the lowly gang member, causing him to scream in agony. Thank goodness for Jungkook's idea to soundproof the room.

He lowers the electric device, allowing the man to breathe deeply... "Gonna talk now?"

He simply shakes his head, causing Yoongi to sigh in disappointment, before repeating his actions.

An hour later...

Shit, he looks like he might... No, he won't, he still needs to give some information. Yoongi groans, knowing what he needs to do now, but dreads it.

But he has to do it for the sake of his family. "You're lucky, you get a break. Because I'm not done with you yet."

As a response, he receives a pained moan, which causes his eyes to roll. He finally departs the basement, passing by the living room, where Hoseok and the maknae line were sitting with instant ramen bowls in their hands.

Jimin pauses in his chewing, making eye contact with his hyung. "So, did he talk?"

Jungkook giggles, attracting Yoongi's attention. "Something funny, Jeon?"

"No, no— uh, nothing." He coughs, continuing eating his noodles.

"Well, why are you here if you're getting close?" Jimin inquired.

"Because that fucker has a low toleration, he looks like his heart is ready to quit beating if I keep going."

Hoseok's pupils dilated. "What, why? What have you been doing?"

"Didn't you hear him earlier, he say his 'oranyan tactics'?" Taehyung nudges him.

"Seriously, Yoongi what did you do?"

"I might've given him the drug." He answers haphazardly.

All four of their faces drops. "You what?!"

"But Jin hyung said-"

"I know what Jin said. But it was the only thing that triggered that prick, okay? And if it works, it works, and I will continue to do so." He cuts off Hoseok. "Now tell me where that weird chick is."

"Where she's always been... Her room." Taehyung sighs.

Yoongi left the living room and proceeded to your room without saying any more.

Before leaving your room, Jimin and Jungkook assisted in keeping you entertained by setting up your television. You were so engrossed by the moving images and characters on the TV that you hadn't noticed Yoongi enter your room after two knocks that you ignored.

He came to a stop when he saw you were too absorbed in a... children's cartoon? His brow furrows at the scene, and he clears his throat loudly, capturing your attention.

Your head swings around at him, little startled by his presence. Your doe eyes reciprocate his gaze. When your eyes connect, he can't help but look away, trying to hide the sudden warmth that has crept up on his cheeks. "H-hey."

You cock your head. "Hi..."

"I need uh- I need you to do something for me." He starts. "There is someone here who is being questioned by me. But it looks like he might pass out from all blows he got."

"I also don't want to risk him dying before I have any information from him."

You keep staring at him, urging him to continue. "What I'm trying to say is, you need to heal this guy, or whatever."

At his remarks, your brows raise. "Okay."

"He hurt really bad?"

"I guess?" He shrugs.

You then hop off the bed and stand on your own two feet. "I will heal then."

Yoongi nods, mildly stunned by your instant obedience. "G-good, follow me."

He then walks you out of your room and down the stairs, passing through the living room, where the three youngest and Hoseok still stay. "Hey cutie~! Whatcha doing out?"

Taehyung greets you with the same boxy smile he had the first time you two met.

"Following him..." While glancing at Taehyung, you point at Yoongi. "He said someone hurt really bad, so I heal."

"Oh..." His lips curled slightly downward as he turned to look at his hyung.

"You're seriously going to bring her down there?"

"Yeah, so?" The latter replies dismissively.

"Hey, this is your problem, don't drag her into this. It's your fault for using that drug on him. I'm guessing you gave him more than the proper dose." Hoseok quickly intervenes.

Yoongi huffs. "Would you all stop ganging up on me. I'm trying all I can to acquire some sort of lead and help us all."

"May I remind you all that we've been running in circles with these detective games for weeks and haven't gotten far."

Hoseok's shoulders slump, Yoongi isn't wrong. If they had any suspicions about anybody or anything, they could usually track down the person's whereabouts, associates, background, and whole past in a matter of days. But not this time; the pending investigation has been prolonged for far too long already, and it's quite eerie for them to go this far without knowing who or what is involved in this whole quandary.

"Well, just know that if Jin finds the extent of your 'interrogation,' you will bear the consequences." Jungkook breaks the tension.

One thing about Jungkook is that, despite being the youngest, the maknae of the gang, he can be pretty mature and frequently plays the part of the elder one or even the group leader when the circumstance calls for it. Perhaps it is because he tries his best to be the most level-headed member of the gang whenever there is a problem amongst the members, and the others are tremendously thankful to him for it, either indirectly or directly.

"I understand." He cuts the talk short, then turns to you, who is already staring at him, oh so innocently... "L-let's go."

You nod and continue to follow him, silently, to the interrogation basement.

When you both enter the room, your sight is drawn to the battered form of the guy that hangs from the ceiling. When you return your gaze, Yoongi turns to face you. "He's hurt really bad."

"Yep."

"Heal him, so I can question him more."

You again merely nod as you walk up to the gang member. When you come near to him, he opens his eyes and fixes them on you. You meet his glance with a blank face. "Hello."

He grimaces at you. "What do you want, bitch."

"Bitch?" Your brow furrows in perplexity.

"Yeah, you stupid bitch." He says it again, leaving you even more perplexed. "Did you come here to do your little boyfriend's dirty work?"

"Me heal you." You innocently gesture to him.

He chuckles dryly, then spits in your face. "I ain't falling for your tricks."

You take a step back from him, flinching and closing your eyes at the fluid contact. Yoongi's laughter interrupts the silence, surprising the guy who had missed Yoongi's presence. Oh, how he wishes he had noticed.

"I think you're the stupid one here." Yoongi then approaches you and hands you a white handkerchief while causing you to gaze up at him while still having the man's spit on your face. "Wipe your face with this."

"I was actually generous enough to bring her here to relieve you of your misery. But it seems that you desire to do more." He looks across at the battered prisoner.

"I-I'm sorry, I t-take it back." He splutters.

Yoongi picks up the water-filled bucket once more. "No, no, not again."

He splashes him with water before grabbing the stun baton. "I advise you turn away, kitten if you can't handle this part."

You tilt your head in confusion as he pushes the stun baton on the gang member, eliciting another agonizing cry from him. As the wailing continues, you cringe, shielding your ears.

Yoongi takes away the baton. "Who was the cargo intended for?"

"I-I can't t-tell you. T-they'll kill m-me." The man replies.

Yoongi exhales exasperatedly. "You'll die anyways if you don't tell me who that cargo was for."

The man clamps his lips together, terrified, he looks at the second-oldest member of the bangtan mafia group. "I-I c-can't."

"Then I'll continue." He then applies the stun baton to the prisoner's abdominal region.

The shrieks lasted for a bit longer, till Yoongi removed it again as the man struggled to take deep breaths. Yoongi was about to push the gadget against him again when the gang member stopped him. "Wait, wait!"

"I-I can't tell you w-who the shipment was for, b-because I don't know who it is."

"How can you negotiate a cargo agreement with someone you don't even know?" Yoongi asks, judgingly. "Are you telling me you don't know who this man is?"

He shows the image that was contained in the evidence package from their anonymous tip a few weeks ago. "Isn't this your little gang meeting up with a man who runs a medical facility?"

"Y-yes, but that wasn't who that supplies were for."

"B-but I don't make the deals, s-so I wouldn't know—" He explains.

"You're the one who does the dirty work, I know." Yoongi sighs and sets the photo down after finishing his sentence.

"But if you don't make the deals, surely you know who does." Yoongi arches his brow in expectancy.

The guy nods, gulping. "I-I do..."

"Tell me now."

Jin was on his way to find Yoongi and remind him that it was his turn to make dinner. He enters his dongsaeng's bedroom, only to be met by the void of his presence. He furrows his brows and begins searching for him throughout the mansion until he comes upon their vast gym room, which Jungkook is occupying.

He walks in, quickly drawing the maknae's attention. "Hey, hyung."

"Hey, Jungkook, I'm looking for Yoongi. It's his turn to prepare dinner. Do you know where he is?"

With the white rag in his hand, the younger pats his forehead. "Yeah, he's in the interrogation room."

Jin's brow furrows in surprise. "He's still there?" He glances at his silver wristwatch. "It's almost six, that means he's been in there for hours."

"Yeah, he claimed he was close to getting the guy to talk." He nods.

"Okay, thank you. Remember to wash up before you come for dinner." The elder pivots, about to return to the entrance.

"Yes mom." Jungkook rolls his eyes. "By the way, that girl is with Yoongi as well."

Jin comes to a halt before grabbing the door handle and turning to face him. "The girl? She's in the interrogation room with Yoongi?"

"Yeah, he said he needed her before the guy passed out on him." Jungkook answers without making eye contact as he resumes his workout on the bench.

Jin pauses for a moment. "Why would— Oh, my god, that little... I'll go, see you later, Kook."

The latter simply grunts in response, as Jin walked out of the gym to the basement interrogation room.

As he descends the stairs, he strains his ears to hear something, anything, despite knowing that the room had been soundproofed courtesy of Jungkook's big brain.

He approaches the door and swings it open. "Min Yoongi, what do you think you—"

Jin stop mid-sentence as he registered the scene in front of him. Yoongi is stuck, staring at you with uncertainty as to what to do about the state you're in.

Earlier, before Jin arrived, the gang member finally told Yoongi what he needed to know, and everything he did know. Yoongi then ordered you to heal him in order to torture him again as retribution for the man's delay in providing the information and send a message to that gang. One that tells them explicitly that Bangtan always gets what they want and that no one can or will stop them from achieving their objective; if they do so, they should count themselves unlucky.

Of course, he didn't tell you that. You knew and were trained not to question commands, only to obey them. So you complied with his demands, but both of you didn't anticipate how severe the healing process would be on you, until now.

Like the previous times, your veins from your fingers to your elbow glow purple and match the veins of the man you are holding as your hands are gently squeezing his sides.

The pain was first somewhat more than you could handle, but the more you lingered with the man, the worse it became. You did your best to prevent the cries and whimpers that threatened to spill from your mouth. No, you can't take your hands off him just yet; he's not completely healed, and his pain hasn't gone away, you thought.

Back at the facility where you escaped, if the healing procedure wasn't fully completed and the subject's pain wasn't properly drained out, you were met with consequences. Consequences that ensured you never made the same mistake twice. You want to take your hands off the man, but if you do, you could suffer the same repercussions as before, which you don't want more than anything.

You don't notice it at first, but as the pain transferring grows increasingly intense, your veins and eyes begin to shine brighter and your head rolls back. You whimper softly as you take more, not only feeling the scorching pain in your abdomen but also in your head. You're not sure what's going on, maybe because you've never reduced pain like this before, causing your senses to surge into overdrive.

Blood begins to seep from your nostrils as your face glows brightly and your head lolls back. And it wasn't until you let out an audible whine that Jin breaks out of his trance on you and rushes up to you.

He grabs your shoulders and jerks you away from the man, interfering with the healing process. And as soon as you lost contact, the agonizing sensation subsided, but the aftereffects almost immediately caused you to become limp in Jin's arms.

Jin drops to the floor with you, softly cradling you. He attempts to wake you, but you don't respond. "Ya! Wake up!"

The elder shifts his gaze from you to Yoongi. "What did you do, Oranyan?"

Yoongi meets his gaze. "I didn't do anything. All I asked her was to heal him."

"And from there, I don't know what was happening. I thought she was just healing him."

Jin's lips pinched as he returned his attention to you, his gaze drawn to the blood gushing down your nose. "I-I think it was too much for her."

"Too much?" Yoongi questions.

"After all, she is still a human being, just like me, you, and that punk over there." Jin replies. "Everyone has a limit, I know you know that, otherwise you wouldn't have asked her for help."

Yoongi turns away as Jin rises up and lifts you in bridal style. "I'll have one of the maknaes take care of whatever happened here."

"I came to tell you that you need to make dinner. And you'd best be prepared to explain everything later." He exits the interrogation room, leaving his dongsaeng behind.

Jin walks across the living room to the front entrance as he emerges from the basement. Their medical clinic is separate from their mansion, but still on their property, so they would have to walk a short distance to the modest housing unit.

On the way to the clinic, he comes across Namjoon, who is reading a book on one of the white benches on their magnificent front yard. Jin's footsteps on the gravel draw the leader's attention away from his book.

When he sees your unconscious body in the arms of his hyung, his brow furrows. He stands from the bench and walks over to you both. "What happened?"

Jin sighs. "I'm not sure, I found her with Yoongi in the interrogation room."

"I guess he needed her to heal the guy since he went too far again." He elaborates. "I think she passed out because it was too much for her."

When the three of you arrive at the clinic, Namjoon goes ahead and holds the door open for Jin. Jin lays you on the automatic medical fowler bed before scurrying into the clinic's supply room to retrieve some tools to help you.

"She's bleeding." Namjoon points out, as the other moves about.

"Oh really Namjoon, I hadn't realized that. Thanks for pointing it out." Jin reacts sarcastically.

Namjoon pouts. "Geez, I didn't notice it until now, okay."

Jin finally returns to you with the appropriate equipments. He needs to check sure you're still alive, so he attaches the fingertip pulse oximeter to your index finger and connects it to the machine.

The machine then detects your heartbeat, allowing the elder to exhale a relieved sigh. "Well, she's alive—"

"What are you doing?" Namjoon observes Jin as he drags a machine close to your head.

"I'm going to scan for her brain activity and see what's going on in that little head of hers when this happens." Jin answers. "I had some suspicion when she helped Jungkook."

"And that is?"

"I'll try to explain it simply, you know when she takes away the pain—" Namjoon nods, encouraging him to go on. "I believe she achieves this by transferring the pain we feel to herself, which means she will experience all of our pain at the moment."

Namjoon's pupils constrict. "That's… That's pretty sensible."

"But, we'll conduct a test to further confirm it." Jin tells him. "You asked me to do some research on the girl, so here it is."

"Shouldn't we first wake her up?" Namjoon inquires.

He shook his head. "No, at least not yet. I'd want to compare the results. Right now, her brain activity should be fairly stable, but we'll see."

Jin surrounds your head with the swoop portable mri scanner. He types on the machine's screen, and the machine whirrs away, leaving the two men waiting for the results of the scan.

It isn't long until the device completes the process and emits an electronic beep. Jin moves to the display computer beside them and types briefly on the keyboard before the scan results appear. Namjoon approaches him from behind, peering over his shoulder.

"What do the results indicate?" Namjoon asks, his eyes never leaving the screen.

"These yellow-red patches in her frontal and parietal lobes are likely the stress-related aftereffects of the physical pain she suffered." Jin explains.

"It's almost mostly red on her parietal lobe, is that worse?" Namjoon inquires.

The master hacker nods. "Yes, the parietal lobe is in charge of sensory perception, such as taste, hearing, sight, smell, and… touch."

"You're right, then…" The leader concludes.

Jin snorts. "I'm always right."

Namjoon rolls his eyes. "Whatever."

Suddenly, the two men hear fabric ruffling, signifying that you are waking up.

They pivot, seeing your eyelids flutter open with a scrunch between your brows. When you fully wake, your face softens into a muddled look. You sat up hastily, swiveling your head in the strange room until you noticed the two familiar men alongside you.

Your wide doe-like eyes lock onto them. "W-where am I?"

"You're in our clinic house." The lens-spectacle man responds.

"A c-clinic ho-use…?" You stutter.

"Yeah, it's like going to a doctor's office to be healed and whatnot." Namjoon simply explains for you. "

"Healed…?" You tilt your head. "But I heal me."

"Well, it's also a place to find out whether there's something wrong with you." Jin adds.

Your eyes widen with a trace of panic, which the two men pick up on, only raising more questions about you in their minds. "I-Is something wrong in me?"

The oldest member shakes his head. "I wouldn't say bad, we're just doing tests to see what you do."

They test you; you must do well, you reason, thus you almost instantly sat up straight. "What do I do?"

"Huh?" Jin lifts his brows.

"You said, test me…" You started making that cute gesture you make when you're trying to explain yourself. Wait, cute? What on earth are they thinking?

"So 0-0-7, do what you say."

"Oh well, it's not much. It's a quick thing." Jin begins, then pats Namjoon on the shoulder. "Namjoon here is going to hurt himself, and you're going to heal him again."

Namjoon looks at Jin. "Excuse me? Since when have I-"

"Since now. Now go hurt yourself with something." Jin smiles tightly.

"With what exactly?" He narrows his eyes at his hyung.

The latter merely shrugs. "I don't know. You're the clumsy one."

"Fuck you. I'm NOT that clumsy." The younger scowls.

Jin's brow furrows. "No… You're quite clumsy at times, it's ridiculous."

"Am not." Namjoon groans.

"Remind me who packed the wrong explosive on the helicopter?" The broad-shouldered man crosses his arms and stares expectantly at the other.

"Hey-! It's not my fault they look the same to me!" Namjoon accusingly points at him.

"And neither is it my fault, you were too over-confident."

"Look, if you're not going to hurt yourself, I will." Jin says.

"Oh, really? And how are you—ah!" When Jin jabs a scalpel into his hand and swiftly retracts it, the tactical genius yelps loudly.

"YA! Are you crazy?!" Namjoon exclaims with disbelief.

"I did strap a missile to a tiny helicopter in order to blow up a moving truck… So, perhaps a little?" He replies condescendingly.

"Again, fuck you, that hurt."

"Well, of course, it hurts you pabo, I stabbed your hand."

Jin claps his hands. "Okay, now that he sustained an injury—" He turns to look at you, only to catch you looking at both of them, frightened. Jin's unexpected action may have scared you. The way he didn't think twice about hurting the mafia leader reminded you so much of your father, who didn't hesitate about punishing his scientists and workers if the drugs and experiments on you didn't work or went wrong, along with you, of course.

"Oh, I- um, it's for the test." Jin approaches, but you simply shrink back.

And Jin dislikes it. You and he may have just spent a short time together, but he preferred it when you didn't back away from him. "H-hey, I'm not going to hurt you like that... that, was just for the test."

You reluctantly nodded, then shifted your gaze to the leader, feeling a clear sensation in you that he's hurt. Namjoon meets your eyes, knowing exactly what you're about to ask him. He chuckles to himself, you're like an open book, so simple to read.

He approaches you and extends his hand to you. But Jin stops you before you can display your glowing visage again. "Wait, let me first put this on you."

He grabs a piece of the contraption and places it on your head, puzzling Namjoon. "What is that?"

"It's a neuro headset. It will read her brain activity and transmit it to us in real-time while she heals you." He answers.

As Jin finishes setting the headset on you, Namjoon's lips make an 'o' of understanding. "Okay, you're all set."

Then, he locks eye contact with you, with no animosity. "Don't worry, whether you heal him or not, you'll do well."

Your lips curl into a little grin at his remarks, now nodding with more confidence, which causes him to smile as well. You cover Namjoon's bleeding wound with your feathery touch. Your purple glow comes to life, illuminating your veins, around the wound, and your eyes.

You begin to close the cut on Namjoon's hand while also relieving his pain. And this time, Namjoon truly focusses on your face, attentively watching even the smallest twitches in your face as Jin keeps his attention, analyzing your brain waves. When you transfer the pain into yourself, you close your eyes and your face starts to contort in discomfort.

Jin is right; when you're healing someone, you experience all they feel. He leans back in shock, watching as the wavelengths on the screen bounce higher, indicating the severity of your discomfort. You slowly open your eyes again a few seconds later, and your purple light fades, indicating that the process was complete.

You let go of the dimpled man's hand, revealing it to be perfectly flawless, as if the injury had never occurred. He then pivots, waiting to hear from the master hacker about your brain activity.

Jin just nods his head, confirming Namjoon's thoughts. You're a true enigma to figure out. “How do you feel?”

Namjoon's question makes you blink. “Me?”

“Yes, how do you feel?”

“I feel… okay?” You say.

"007, what did you mean when I asked you how you take away our pain?" Jin asks.

You hum. “Your pain, my pain.”

"I should've known then, but now I know. This changes things a bit."

Namjoon nods. “It does. So we can’t entirely rely on her when it comes to the more severe injuries.”

“We have to tell the others about it.”

“Indeed, we do. We have a lot to talk about anyways, I assume Yoongi got the man to talk.”

Jin rolls his eyes. “Yeah.”

By dinnertime, the seven members had gathered in the dining room, where the delicious food had been prepared by the scar-faced man.

The table was unusually quiet, which generally meant that something bad or novel would be spoken. In any case, the maknae line never enjoyed the tense atmosphere, at least not at the dinner table.

Jungkook uttered a whine. “Okay, what’s going on?”

“I have something to say…”

“I have some information…”

Yoongi and Jin spoke at the same time, causing the others to raise their brows and the two men to exchange glances.

“Well, since I’m the older one, you go first.” Jin crosses his arms.

Yoongi only huffs. “Sure… I got a name and location for the gang. The birdie informed me that their gang's leader conducts business in private. But he uses an alias. So it's pointless to try to check his background."

“And the location?” Namjoon inquires.

“Daegu. They had plans if they were compromised they’d lay low there.”

"It seems that their leader loves Golden Dragons. And, that he’s a person we don’t come to and demand of, he comes to you, or so he says.” He rolls his eyes.

“Then we’ll go to Daegu.” Namjoon declares.

Taehyung’s eyes widened. “Deagu?! That’s hours away. That’ll be—”

"Yes, it will be a full work day for us, maybe a couple of work days." Namjoon confirms.

"When are we leaving?" Hoseok questions, unfazed by the sudden plans.

"The sooner the better, therefore we'll leave tomorrow." The leader answers.

The maknae groans. “Aw man, that means we’re going to have to pack tonight.” Jimin scolds him quietly by pinching his leg.

“Then it’s settled, we’re going to Daegu tomorrow.”

Jimin looks at Jin. “Now, what was it you were going to share hyung?”

He exhales, his shoulders dropping. “It’s about the girl, 007.”

“What about her? Is she okay?” His face is filled with concern. “Actually, now that I think about it, I haven’t seen her since she went into the interrogation room with Yoongi.”

“Well, she’s alright now. But it’s about her… abilities, we could say…” He begins.

"We all know that one of her abilities is to heal wounds and relieve pain for all of us, or anybody, really—"

"You're rambling again, Jin hyung." Jimin puffs his cheeks.

He exhales forcefully. "Remember when she came to help you when I extracted the bullet from you, Jungkook?" Jungkook nods, and Jin resumes. "What she did when she numbed the pain was transfer the pain to herself."

"Meaning, she felt all the pain you were feeling at that moment—that's how she does that thing." He explains.

The table falls silent once more as everyone processes the new information.

"See, I had a feeling bringing her down there wasn't a smart idea." Taehyung frowns at Yoongi.

"Ya, none of us knew that until now. Don't blame me." The older glares back.

"How did you find out about this?" Asked Jungkook.

"Well, Namjoon and I went to the clinic to run some brief tests on her after she passed out in the interrogation room. Her brain scans reveal it all." Jin replies.

"Ah… I see…"

"Wait- Did you say she collapsed?!" Jimin's eyes widened as he turned to face the person who had prepared dinner.

"What do you want me to say— I didn't think that would happen." Yoongi shrugs.

"Alright, well, we all know now. We can't rely fully on her if one of us suffers a more severe injury." Namjoon breaks up the members' glares and looks.

"But she was fine when she was healing Jungkook," Jimin muses.

"The only difference is that he didn't have the drug put into him." Jin sneers.

Oranyan slams the table with his fist. "Can't you all be thankful that I got something from him to help us all?"

"Seriously, all I've been hearing at this table is how badly I screwed up. It's annoying." He clenches his teeth.

"You know what, whatever, I'm not hungry anymore." He abruptly rises from his seat, and all six of the remaining eyes follow him.

"Where are you going Yoongi?" Jin sighs.

"Room." He walks away without looking back.

They all looked at each other for a moment before Taehyung broke the quiet. "Shouldn't we—"

"No, just leave him alone for the time being. He needs his time to cool off." Namjoon replies.

"And speaking of the girl, since were going on our little business trip, we just can't leave her here the entire time."

"What do you suggest we do?" Hoseok cocks his head.

"We'll enroll her in school." Namjoon responds while slicing his steak.

"A school… You want to put her in school?" Hoseok repeats.

"Yes."

"I think she'll be alright with Sun-woo here." Jungkook insists.

"Yeah, but for a more than a day, busy with what? A children's cartoon?" Namjoon counteracts.

Jungkook raises his hands in surrender. "I'm simply looking at it logically. I mean, she has no social skills, rarely speaks, and doesn't even recognize half of the items in this house. You think she'll survive a day at a school?"

"While I understand your point of view, Jungkook, I think Namjoon's idea is good. How else could she learn those things—certainly not from us." Jin sips from his glass of wine. "And I believe that is also a logical viewpoint. She wouldn't gain from being cooped up in this mansion. And if she's going to stay with us, she might as well learn a thing or two."

"Are we even going to be able to have her registered so quickly? We leave tomorrow." Taehyung questions.

Jin smirks. "Look who you're talking to; what you're asking me is child's play."

"I mean, she's the one forced into a new environment after all." Jimin proposed.

Namjoon nods. "We will and we'll get her registered first thing tomorrow, and then leave later in the evening. Does that sound good?"

Everyone hums or nods in accordance to their leader's instructions.

"So… I think it's very clear we can't register with the number she gave us. She needs a name." Jungkook stuffs his mouth with food, ravenous after all that talking.

"Hmm, you're right… Maybe we can discuss that with her."

Yoongi exits the dining area and ascends the stairs, walking idly along the corridor until he glances up and finds himself in front of your bedroom door.

Over the course of a few weeks, it appears that him bringing your food for dinner has become such a habit that even his body knows where to go and for what without even realizing it. He throws your door open, making you flinch at the door slamming as he strides in, still agitated by the dinner conversation.

“Your food.” He spits, roughly placing it on the bedside table in front of you.

With a little furrow between your brows, you gaze up at him silently. “Y-you… feel not good.”

“Yeah, and I wonder whose fault is that?” He sneers.

"Who?" Curiosity filled your eyes.

He scowls and mentally breathes, cool it Yoongi, one less thing for them to nag you about if you blow up in front of her. "It's none of your business."

You avert your eyes, now staring at the meal. You have a sense that if you make any abrupt moves, you'll set him off. But your inaction seemed to irritate him even more.

You can feel his frustration waves making you tense as he clicks his tongue. “Ya-! Are you gonna eat or what?”

You swallow, unsure where to look, but nod anyway. “I-I will.”

“Well, then…” He narrows his eyes at you.

You perceive this as a cue to start eating on your own. You assume he won't feed you tonight, so you'll have to help feed yourself. And, of course, you're still not sure how to use the utensils.

Your fingers tremble slightly as you reach for the food on the white porcelain plate, scooping up the rice and spicy red vegetable known as Kimichi, which you learned you really liked. Your other hand goes to rip a piece of meat jun that you also found you really liked the flavor of.

So you started stuffing the food into your mouth wordlessly, completely disregarding the silvery utensils on either side of the tray, just like the first time he served you dinner.

He catches your attention with an impatient sigh. "Weeks have passed, and you still can't manage something as basic as a spoon or chopsticks?"

"You see these things—" He motions with the spoon and chopsticks, causing you to nod while starring at him. "Use them. Now."

"O-okay." You squeak, clutching the spoon with your food-strewn hands, knowing that it was easier for you to use.

When you picked up the spoon, you tried to mimic what the man in front of you used to do when he fed you, scooping the rice and ready to rip a piece of meat jun again when Yoongi stopped you. "No, use the chopsticks. You've spent enough time watching to understand how to use it."

You hesitantly nod once more before taking the two silver sticks. However, you struggle to grasp it properly when you try to take a piece of the meat jun with the chopstick, holding the utensil awkwardly. You were able to rip a little bit, but as soon as you got a grip of it between the metal sticks, it fell instantly.

You puff softly, attempting it again—once… twice… three times—but it falls pitifully at each attempt. And this simply adds to the master manipulator's aggravation. "YA! Are you that helpless, or should I say useless?"

Your lips quiver faintly as you recoil at his outburst. You disliked it when people yelled at you. With the pathetic ratio of successes and failures you accumulated during your 'training' and testing, it always reminded you how much of a failure you are.

"Can't even use a simple object. I won't understand how any of them think any good of you when you can't even do this." He rants angrily, pinching the bridge of his nose with his eyes closed.

And you hadn't realized that when you finally looked up at him again, your eyes blazed purple, indicating that you were scared of him. He exhales deeply before opening his eyes and returning your gaze, noticing your vivid violet eyes.

He's quite taken aback by it, but he doesn't show it. This happened the last time he saw you for the first time. Why are your eyes so bright when you're just with him? He steps back. "I don't have time to deal with this; I'll have someone fetch the platter when you're done."

He quickly pivots, shrewdly speed-walking back to your door, leaving you in the tense atmosphere.

The next day, the group convened once more to have you registered at one of the nearby schools, as planned. After dinner, Jin proceeded to forge various documents to formally enroll you, such as a paper proof of residency and emergency contact information, as well as fill out a general application form to prevent any suspicions and questioning.

To be totally honest, it'll still raise quite a few eyebrows for one of the country's most infamous mafia gangs to suddenly enroll a girl who hasn't seemed to exist for the previous nineteen years.

The final thing they needed to do was to create a birth certificate for you, but first they had to come up with a name for you. So, with the seven men in your room, they start to discuss the ideal name for you.

"Good morning 007." Jimin grins politely and joins the rest of you in the room, holding a platter of steaming tea in his hands.

With a little wave, you falteringly smile. "Hi…"

You gaze with curiosity as he sets the tray on your nightstand. "Is that my medicine?"

Jimin pauses, puzzledly glancing at you. "Medicine-? This? Oh, no, it's tea. Green tea."

"Tea? Will it make me caa-lm?" You queried.

"I guess…? It's healthy for you." Jimin responds hesitantly.

"007, did they give you something like this back where you're from?" Taehyung questions.

You nod truthfully. "They make me take to caa-lm me."

"And do you know what kind of medicine they give you?"

"Mister said P-pavulon… I t-take when they fix me." You stumble through your reply, trying your hardest to get the words out.

Jin's eyes widened in shock, but Hoseok, being the astute observer that he is, notices it. "I take it, it sounds familiar to you hyung?"

Everyone looks at Jin as he nods in affirmation. "Pavulon- or more precisely, pancuronium it's a neuromuscular blocker used as an adjunct to general anesthesia to facilitate tracheal intubation and to provide skeletal muscle relaxation for patients that undergoes mechanical ventilation or I assume, in her case, surgery."

"Maybe talk in dumb for people who don't understand science terminology you." Jungkook smiles sarcastically.

"It's a more targeted paralytic medicine used in conjunction with general anesthetic to induce skeletal muscular relaxation in the patient, which will require mechanical ventilation since they'll struggle to breathe on their own." Jin explains again.

"So they're practically paralyzed from the neck down?" Taehyung frowns.

"Yes, and in fact, seventy percent of the time, some people do not regain their sensation, resulting in death." Jin continues. "That's why several laws to ban the drug were almost passed."

"But I assume it's only after a certain number of times they've been drugged with it or how much they've been given in one dose, right?" Jimin's face is covered in worry.

"That is correct, and she is quite lucky to still be able to move or be alive."

"Wait a minute- why would they need to use such a strong drug to get her into that state?" The maknae wonders aloud.

Namjoon rubs his chin. "That's a good question, Jungkook."

"Well, given what we know, one thing is certain: whatever facility 007 came from isn't a regular facility."

"Jin, you were able to get any details on her?" Namjoon looks to the eldest.

The latter shakes his head. "No boss, absolutely no traces of her. When Jimin and Jungkook met her, she seemed to appear out of nowhere."

"Alright, it seems like we'll have to make do with what she can tell us about the institution where she was held."

"But for the time being, let's concentrate on the enrollment—So, 007…" The leader now turns his attention to you. "We talked last night, and we all agreed to send you to school because we'll be away on a… business trip."

Yoongi snorts, stifling a laugh, at the notion of you attending school during their time in Daegu. But the rest of them gave him a look that made him shrug. "What-? I thought it was funny, nothing wrong with that."

"What is school?" You tilt your head.

"Basically prison." Jungkook muttered, but loud enough for everyone to hear, and Hoseok chastised him by nonchalantly smacking the back of his head. "Ow- hey-!"

Your pupils dilated. "Prison? Did 007 do wrong?"

Jimin frantically shakes his head. "No, no, you did nothing wrong. And it's certainly NOT a prison." He then glares at his dongsaeng. "Jungkook has no idea what he's talking about."

"Oh… Then, what is it?" Your face regains its innocent expression.

"It's a place where young people like you go to learn all there is to know about the world." Jimin answers. "It… It can be enjoyable, and you'll meet a lot of other kids like you!"

"Actually, there are no other kids like her. At least a kid who can heal others and herself in seconds and has glowing eyes." Jungkook interrupts.

"Jungkook-! Seriously." Jimin gives him another scowl.

"Okay, I'll stop." He chuckles.

"You'll get used to it, I believe in you." Taehyung smiles at you.

You reciprocate his smile. "Okay, when I go?"

"Today, in a like two hours maybe." Jin checks his watch.

"However, before we can register you, we must first create a birth certificate for you. The only issue is that we need to give you a real name."

"Name…? 0-0-7—" You point to yourself. "Me- my n-name, 007."

Jin shakes his head. "No, that's a number. Those people in your facility didn't give you a name; they just gave you a number. A number makes you a subject, not a person."

"And you're a person, a human, not anything else."

"So, 007, what do you want to be called?" Taehyung lip-smiles.

With confusion, your eyes are blank. "I-I don't know."

"How about, Ae-Ri?" Jungkook suggests.

"Eh, that sounds too girly for her." Taehyung disagrees.

Jimin arches his brow. "Too girly? What makes it 'too girly', Taehyung?"

Taehyung pursed his lips. "Uh… no… Nevermind."

"What about, Eun-Ha?" Hoseok proposed.

"Oh hell no- that's my sister's name. Definitely not." Jin grimaces.

"Okay, not Eun-Ha, what do you suggest then?" The younger said.

"Let's do Min-Ah." He smirks.

Taehyung giggles. "Sounds like the a shorter girl version of Jimin-ah."

Jimin narrows his eyes on the later 95. "Fuck off, Taehyung."

"Hyung!" Jungkook whines as he notices your ears perk up at the swear word from Jimin.

Jimin looks at Jungkook then shifts his eyes to you, where you look at him with wonder. "Fuck?"

He nervously laughs. "Don't repeat that. Especially not in school, okay?"

"Fuck?"

"Yeah, don't say it okay?" And you nod in compliance, to which Jimin sighs in relief.

"Han-Byul, it's classic." Namjoon says.

"No offense Namjoon, but if I were you, I would sit this one out." Jin said.

Namjoon looks at him, completely offended. "What, why? What's wrong with my name idea?"

"It sounds ancient, you're going to make her seem old." Jungkook pats his leader's shoulder.

"Exactly, took the words right out of my mouth." Jin concurs.

"It's not old, it's classic." Namjoon repeats.

"It's old, that's what it is." Taehyung comments.

Jimin then turns to look at you. "007, how do you like the name, Ji-Won?"

"Ji-Won?" You think audibly.

Jungkook snorts. "Are you sure you want to name her after one of your hookups?"

Jimin swivels his head to look at the maknae. "No...? Wait- How do you know her name?"

"You're telling me you didn't know? She's hundred sixty-two centimeters, smaller eyes, black to blonde ombre hair— that girl, does it ring a bell?" Jungkook looks at the older expectantly.

"Ohh- her... Why do you even remember her anyways?" The master seducer squints at him.

"She came crying to me when you broke the 'news' to her one day after your guys 'amazing' night." He answers.

"Oh- well, then I got nothin'." Jimin says.

The room eventually became silent as they all struggled to come up with a nice name for you, as you sat on your knees gazing at them on your bed.

"Y/N." A voice disrupts the silence.

All seven heads turned to look at the source of the voice, and all eyes were drawn to Yoongi. "What did you say?"

"Y/N, it's simple, and it matches her- I guess…" He mumbles, his eyes averted elsewhere, missing the way your eyes gleam at the mention of the name. Hearing it piques your interest.

Another beat goes by, and your sweet voice comes out. "Y/N…"

"I l-like Y/N." You say again.

Jungkook, Namjoon, and Hoseok's expressions gradually shift to one of slight surprise, while Jimin, Jin, and Taehyung's slowly smirk at your response before diverting their attention to the second-oldest member's reaction to your reaction.

Yoongi coughs, attempting to dismiss it; the bitterness from last night is still present. "Goo- Yeah, whatever."

"Alright, if 007 likes it, then we'll go with it." Namjoon claps his hands.

Everyone accepts with a nod, and Taehyung's boxy smile forms on his face. "It's nice to meet finally meet you, Y/N."

You grin, revealing your teeth. "T-thank you, Tae-tae…"

"D-did I say name r-right?"

Hoseok chuckles as he tries to correct you. "It's actually—"

But Taehyung interjects, waving his hand. "Yeah, you can call me Tae-Tae."

You giggle slightly in response to his pleasant remark.

After a fifteen-minute drive, the eight of you arrived at Yonsei University. The chauffeur parks their black Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Luxury van, and shortly after you all exited, eliciting numerous attention from students and a few from the school's bypassing staff.

Your eyes surveyed the magnificent architecture, which was partially covered by what appeared to be green moss. Jimin and Jungkook walked on each side of you, both staring at the structure. "From now on, this is where you'll spend the majority of your time."

You twist your head to look at the tattooed-sleeved man on your left. "I-It looks n-ice."

Jimin hums, looking at you. "I think so too."

"Let's go inside." Namjoon announces.

To say that everyone in the front office was surprised is an understatement. Everyone halted in their tracks to gawk at the mafia gang as they strolled in with you, nearing the front desk where the assistant head administrator stands.

She gulps visibly as you all approach, Namjoon in front. "We want to register a student here. Where is your head administrator?"

"H-quite he's busy at the moment, you might have to wait for about half an hour before he could meet with you." She answers.

"Well, tell him to cancel his plans right now because we're on a tight schedule." Namjoon smiles that didn't reach his eyes.

She timidly nods, reaching for the black phone beside her and dialing the number. "Hello, sir; there are people here who want to enroll a student right now."

"Didn't I say I had work to do? Tell them I decline to meet them, and do your job to set up another time."

"Besides, it's mid-year; they're crazy to register them now."

The assistant anxiously flickers her eyes at Bangtan, which catches Hoseok's attention. "Sir, you don't understand…"

Hoseok's face twitches with amusement as he approaches Namjoon from behind. "Boss, he's most likely refusing."

The woman hears Hoseok and glances at them both with fright. "Ah- no, he'll—"

Namjoon blinks, his face expressionless yet menacing to everyone else. "I'll talk to him."

She hands the phone to Bangtan's leader immediately. He then presses the phone against his ear. "Morning, Pang Chunso-ssi—"

"Who am I speaking to? Are you the one who wants to enroll a student in the middle of the school year? Are you insane?"

Namjoon chuckles dryly. "This is Black Mamba speaking, I'm sure you've heard of me."

The phone went silent.

"Good, you have. Then you should know that I wasn't asking when I said I wanted to register a student here."

The man suddenly clears his throat. "I apologize! O-of course, I'll have my schedule c-cleared out r-right now."

"Excellent. And one more thing Pang Chunso-ssi..."

"Yes... Sir?"

"Am I crazy?" He grinned evilly.

"N-No, o-of course n-not, sir."

"Right, because I'm not that crazy to know about the secret second family you've been hiding from your wife and two kids for the past three years." He replies.

"H-how…"

"Ah, ah, no questions, we'll be at your office in two minutes, and if you're not ready by then, all of those pictures will be sent in two minutes, understood?"

"Y-yes."

"See you soon, Chunso-ssi." He hangs up the phone and returns it to the woman. "Lead us to his office."

They entered the chief administrator's office two minutes later, exactly as Namjoon had stated, with the documents in Jin's hands. As Bangtan comes in, the man straightens up.

He greets Namjoon and the others with a 90-degree bow. "Please take a seat."

"To begin, I'll need the application form, birth certificate, past school records, and emergency contact documents." He begins.

Jin passes over the packet with all of the necessary documentation. "There aren't any school records."

"Pardon?" He raises his eyes to Jin.

"She's never been to school before; this is her first time." Jin responds.

The head administrator's face contorts in befuddlement. "And it's for…" He then takes a look at the application form and the birth certificate. "…Kim Y/N."

"Y/N, me." You smile as you talk, pulling the man's attention to yourself.

He smiles professionally. "That's the new student, I see. I see- well, unfortunately, without any school records, we won't be able to—"

"Perhaps I didn't make myself clear Pang Chunso-ssi... Should we find out how your wife and kids will react when they realize you—"

"Okay, okay!" He coughs, trying to keep his composure. "I'll get her registered, she'll start attending tomorrow."

"Today." Namjoon cuts in.

"I- Today..." Chunso glances at his assistant, calling her over. "Tell them to prepare her transcripts and class schedule."

The woman nods, taking the documents and hurriedly leaving the office. Chunso then claps his hands. "Well, you may wait outside, her papers will be ready in a few short minutes."

They all rise from their chairs, and the man bows ninety degrees again. You cock your head. "What are you doing?"

Everyone then looks at you. "I-I'm showing respect."

"Oh." You blankly look at him up and down then mirror his actions, bowing ninety degrees, making the old man's eyes widen. "Huh-?!"

Before you could say anything else, you're grabbed by the shoulder and led out of the office, leaving the headmaster stunned.

"Y/N, you don't have to do that." Jin tells you.

"Why?"

"You're with us, or at least closely associated with us now. And a thing about Bangtan, they don't bow down to anyone, so neither should you." Namjoon explains.

"So... no bow?"

"Yes."

Once your papers were printed, indicating that you were an official student at the school, the assistant informed you that you would be given a tour of the school by another student, which meant that the seven men who accompanied you were no longer required to be present.

So they're back at the entryway, near their parked luxury vehicle, wishing you goodbye.

"I feel like a mother dropping her child off at college." Jin says this while smiling at you. "But aside from that, behave well and have fun, okay?"

He carefully extends his hand and softly pets your head, making you grin slightly as you hum in response.

Jin steps back, allowing the others their turn. Everyone except Yoongi, who is already grimacing in the van as his members say their goodbyes.

Hoseok and Namjoon finished their turn next, followed by Jimin, Jungkook, and Taehyung.

"Ya, don't do anything I wouldn't, alright?" Jungkook says, causing Taehyung and Jimin to nudge him roughly. "What-? I didn't say anything bad."

"Yeah but she doesn't understand that. And besides, the things you wouldn't do is socialize and be nice to others." Taehyung rolls his eyes.

"That's exactly my point." Jungkook responds, which makes the elder less amused.

He then looks at you. "Hope you have fun my cutie. We'll be back before you know it."

The two youngest then climbed in the vehicle with the others, leaving Jimin alone. "Also if anyone bothers you, tell us okay?"

You nod. "O-okay."

He ruffles your hair lightly. "Bye Y/N. We'll arrange for Sun-woo to pick you up after school."

"Just look for a car like this one, understood?"

"Yes."

Finally, all seven members piled into the vehicle and drove away.

"Y/N-ssi." Someone beckons to you, prompting you to turn around.

"Hello." You greet. "My name, Y/N."

"I know, I called you that." He rolls his eyes. "Anyway, I'm Young-Jae, I'm assigned to show you around the school, so keep up."

"Keep up?" You furrow your brows at the phrase.

"Yeah, it means don't be slow." He scoffs. "What are you five?"

"No, my name, Y/N." You gesture to yourself.

He irritably clicks his tongue. "Yeah, you said that twice, now come on."

After about a half-hour tour of the school, Young-Jae had bite his tongue every few seconds in answer to your absurd questions. Seriously, how do you not know any of the stuff here, like a water fountain. Were you born under a rock, or are you just dumb?

Then a bright bulb went out in his head, yeah, it will undoubtedly be a memorable first day of school for you. He comes to a halt in the middle of his stroll, which causes you to come to a halt as well. "Hey, wanna see a cool spot that no one else knows about?"

"Cool…?" Your brow furrows with interest.

"Yeah, you'll enjoy this." He lies.

"O-okay." You blithely agree. Too easy, he thought.

He snatches your wrist and drags you over campus, your small legs struggling to keep up with his speed. He then comes to a halt in the middle of the corridor, in front of an old, worn-out door. "We've arrived."

You peer around behind him, your gaze scanning the door. "What is it?"

"Oh, there are so many great things you could play with." He responds in a phony happy tone that you miss.

If there was anything nice that came out of the facility, it was the unlimited quantity of toys you were given to keep you entertained in the ten-by-ten-foot box room.

"I-I can g-o in-sside?" You questioned.

"Sure you can!" He opens the door and then shoves you inside. "Have fun!"

Then he shuts the door and doesn't bother to switch on the lights for you. You stare about in the darkness until you hear a click that causes your head to jerk up. "H-hello?"

But all you're met with is silence.

And suddenly, the darkness merely brings back the unpleasant memories you're trying to erase. You start grabbing your chest and squeezing it repeatedly, striving to keep your whimpers silent. Your eyes are closed as you strive to remain quiet; otherwise, someone could discover you and scold you for being so… weak…

"Hello, 007." An artificial voice interrupted your thoughts, forcing you to startle and open your eyes.

Your wide eyes landed on a purple three-dimensional holographic lady, and your eyes began to glow violet again as you stared at the unknown woman in front of you.

"Do not be afraid 007, I am only here to assist you." The woman speaks robotically.

"My name is Genesis, and I am a three-dimensional artificial intelligence. Dr. Hyon Kwan created me. Also known as for you, Mister."

masterpost | two | four

[pandorasword]

Chaeri as the 8th and youngest member of BTS.

Chaeri's mastelist

❒ genre: Fluff; Slice of life

❒ words: 1.6k+

❒ summary: In which a little fan steals Chaeri's heart

❒ warnings: None I guess

❒ notes: Soobin as a guest star! - It was a request but accidentally deleted the ask.. Hope this post finds your way anyway anon! ps. sorry it took so long, let me know if you enjoy it!

[16092019] BTS departure

The Incheon Airport was a sight to behold, bustling with life and energy. Fans of all ages filled the terminal, their eyes alight with anticipation and eagerness. Excited conversations filled the air, mixing with the click of cameras and the ever-present hum of travel. Impatient paparazzi jostled to get the best photos, their lenses trained on the celebrities that had arrived. Barriers and guards were placed all along the airport to prevent overexcited fans from invading the private space of idols. 

BTS could say they were used to all that by now. Especially in Korea, when their schedules brought them to travel abroad, the flood of people who gathered to greet them and wish them a safe trip was impossible to count. 

There were so many people that it was really getting difficult to be able to distinct the voices, the words, and who they be owned by to. But yet, Chaeri did not know how either, managed to link the voice that had shouted to her to the face to which it belonged. 

Just as tall as the barriers that kept the fans in place, a little boy who could have been no more than 6 years old clutched a black puppet to his chest and, with his free hand, pointed at her - or rather, pointed at her shirt, on which a dragon was printed.

"Dragon!" He shouted, his childish voice just loud enough to be heard. Chaeri's eyes widened a little as she looked down at the figure printed on her chest and then back up at the kid. All around them, the other members were starting to move forward, but Chaeri glanced over her shoulder and paused for a moment before doing so. 

Her bodyguard warned her not to get too close to the crowd, but there was something in this young fan's voice that touched her heart. She raised her hair with one hand and stepped closer towards him so he could see what she had been hiding at the back of her neck: beneath her hair was a tattoo of a dragon, identical in every detail with the one printed on her shirt. 

The little boy put his puppet down and opened his mouth in awe; many others around him mirrored his expression after seeing it, causing an even bigger commotion than before. Despite all the chaos happening around, Chaeri couldn't help but smile at the child's reaction. Moments like these made her feel like it was all worth it - the long hours in the studio, the grueling rehearsals, the constant pressure to be perfect. 

Chaeri was running out of time and the security personnel were closing in. She whispered to the fan, "Quick! Slide under the barricades and give me a hug before they catch us" The young boy's face lit up with excitement at being so close to his idol. He scrambled beneath the barriers and raced forward, barely allowing himself to pause as he reached out hesitantly to touch her. His arms shook but Chaeri bent down towards him, granting him one last precious moment of joy before she had to drag him back behind the line of barricades.

The little boy then caught Chaeri off guard; he slowly picked up the black puppet he had dropped to the ground when he spotted her and held it out for her to take. "This is for you," he said, his lips turning up ever so slightly at the corners in a timid grin. "It's a dragon, just like yours" His arm rose to point towards her neck. A flicker of emotion crossed Chaeri's face as she looked down at the puppet with fondness before glancing back up to meet his gaze; her eyes shone brightly with appreciation. She could feel everyone around them mesmerized on the scene unfolding before them, their eyes flickering between admiration and envy. With a gentle smile curling her lips upwards she wrapped her hands around the soft fabric of the doll before standing up again. One last time she looked into his eyes and promised: "I'll keep this forever!"

Event-related tweets

💭 Chaeri keeps proving why she's my bias. The way she interacts with fans is just amazing 💭 That little boy handing Chaeri his dragon puppet was the cutest thing I've ever seen. My heart is melting ❤️ 💭 I can't believe Chaeri let a fan hug her! So jealous! 😭 💭 That little boy must be on cloud nine right now! I hope he knows how lucky he is to have met Chaeri 💭 I never knew I needed a dragon tattoo until I saw Chaeri's. She's always setting trends

[02042023] Busan Audition

"How is Europe, Oppa? Are you spending good times with your family?" Chaeri owned and had owned many talents; unfortunately, she had lost the one of being on time. She remembered how, in the early days of her career, she was always the first one to get up, be ready, and show up wherever their schedule led them. She was 14 years old then. Probably, at the 'ripe old age' of almost 25, she was too tired all the time to be punctual. With her shoulder she held her cellphone attached to her ear while, on the other end of the phone, Namjoon was telling her how much those days were relaxing him, how happy he was to be able to spend time somewhat quietly with his family. At the same time, her hands were busy signing in at the auditorium where the auditions for the new male group that BigHit had planned for the next generation of k-pop artists would be held. In her delight, she was asked whether she wanted to supervise the auditions of the new proposals, as a senior member of the company. She could not have been happier about it, honestly. And she would have been even happier if that very kind but terribly annoying receptionist stopped making her sign paper after paper, despite her repeating that she was already late. "Mh-mh, yes. Soobin will attend along with me" The receptionist handed her another packet of papers to sign and Chaeri almost dropped the phone from the precarious position it was in, out of sight. "We should do also a motivational speech or something…. If only I can get there on time, clearly" She couldn't help but cast an oblique glance at the woman on the other side of the desk who, herself, seemed to be having a great time.

Namjoon chuckled on the other end of the line. "You always manage to pull it off, Chaeri. I have faith in you." His words brought a smile to Chaeri's lips as she hurriedly signed the last document and made her way to the auditorium.

"Lord, I'm finally done. I need to go. I love you"

"I love you too, kid"

Chaeri walked down the hallway which would lead her to the auditorium where, one by one, the young boys would enter to perform. There stood Soobin,one of BigHit's rising stars and TxT's leader -- a vibrant smile stretching his cheeks and revealing two rows of perfect teeth. His eyes lit up when he noticed her. "Chaeri noona!" he exclaimed with enthusiasm. "You're here! We've got 10 minutes before we need to start."

"Sorry, I know I'm late," Chaeri replied.

The excitement in her voice was palpable as she asked, "Do you think we could get a peek at the kids?" Before Soobin could answer, she grabbed his hand and pulled him along, the soles of their shoes squeaking against the floor as they hurried towards the backstage route.

Countless of hopeful young boys were waiting nervously. Some were practicing their dance moves, others were singing softly to themselves, and a few were just staring into space, lost in their own thoughts.

One of the boys was just starting to turn his head in their direction when Chaeri and Soobin ducked back behind the heavy, black velvet curtains that separated the private area from the main one. They both held their breath, listening to see if they had been noticed. "Seeing us would have made them panic sooner than expected," Chaeri whispered, her voice barely audible.

"Definitely," Soobin agreed, her heart pounding as they waited until it was safe to emerge again.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

The auditions were finally over, and Chaeri felt a sense of fulfillment. She had witnessed so much raw talent and passion in those young boys, and she couldn't wait to see which ones would make it to the final round. As she made her way towards the exit, a young boy caught her eye.

The audition kids were told to keep their distance from her and Soobin - who had left just before her -, with a line of bodyguards forming a physical barrier between them. However, one boy stepped up closer than any of the other contestants, albeit not invading her personal space. He looked familiar, but she couldn't quite place him. She smiled politely at him as she walked past, but he stepped forward and called out to her "Dragon!"

A wave of nostalgia washed over her as she remembered a small boy who had been mesmerized by the intricate swirls and curves of her tattoo. He had presented her with a tiny stuffed dragon which she still kept on her bedside table all these years later. His face had grown taller, but his eyes were still wide with childlike wonder "You've grown so much, dragon boy"

The boy gasped, his dark eyes widening with surprise. "You remember me?!"

"Of course I do, your little dragon slept with me for many nights!"

A proud smile curved the corners of his mouth, and he seemed to stand taller knowing that he had made an impression on her all those years ago. "I auditioned today. I hope I did well, and I just wanted to say thank you for inspiring me."

Her expression softened as she replied, "Good luck, then! Do your best, maybe one day we will work together"

The boy nodded eagerly, his eyes shining with determination. "I'll make sure to work hard and become a great artist!"

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

Bodyguards tugged the heavy doors open for her to step out onto the sidewalk. She shivered in the cool air, and fished her phone out of her pocket. The screen lit up with some notifications:

Namjoon: How did the auditions go?

Chaeri: Saw some really talented kids, excited to see who makes it to the next round

Namjoon: You always have a good eye for talent, I'm sure the new group will be amazing.

Namjoon: You're doing great things at BigHit

Chaeri: 🫶🏼

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